Welcome to Tulum – a tropical, bohemian paradise located along Mexico’s highly sought-after Caribbean coastline with plenty of things to see. Featuring pristine, white sandy beaches, dense jungle landscapes, and ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
In this complete guide, you’ll discover the best things to see in Tulum including the jungle restaurants, boho beach clubs and the amazing boutique hotels that make Tulum an alluring destination for travellers from around the world.
Start planning your own trip to Tulum, Mexico!
Why is Tulum so popular?
Tulum captivates travellers from all corners of the globe, including movie stars looking for their fill of glorious white sand beaches coupled with magical restaurants and hotels that are created around the jungle landscape – the designs are truly next level!
You’ll find bohemian luxury on every turn, stunning yoga studios, 5-star beachfront boutiques, striking sculptures made from natural resources and a strong emphasis towards wellness and sustainability, there is really little not to like about Tulum Mexico!
Where is Tulum?
Tulum is located on the southeastern edge of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. It’s two hours from Cancun and in the other direction 3 hours from Bacalar. A perfect beach escape between Mexican adventures!
When to visit Tulum?
November is the overall best month to visit Tulum, the weather is warm, sunny and stable, there’s minimal seaweed and more things to see and do! December and January are the busiest and most expensive months and the heaviest rain falls June to October. But be mindful that Tulum is a tropical destination and it can rain at any time of the year!
How many days in Tulum?
Tulum is a great place to visit for anywhere from four days to a full week. Not only does it have a stunning beach, but you’ll also find plenty of things to do right in Tulum and nearby. For example, you can take a day trip to see Chichen Itza, one of the most famous spots in Mexico. Check out World Discovery Tours for an exciting day out and read below for the complete review.
BEST THINGS TO SEE IN TULUM
Tulum has had somewhat of a makeover in the last decade, what used to be a rustic and relaxed beach escape has now transformed into the boho-chic destination of the world – with two completely new zones to explore. But don’t worry there’s still plenty of jungle to go around, you only need to view Tulum from a rooftop terrace to see how surrounded you are!
More than ever you can find unique things to see in Tulum that are so incredible whether you’re into bohemian restaurants, natural designs, Mayan ritual experiences or magical Cenotes deep underground.
Here are the best things to see in Tulum:
THE BEACH
The incredible beaches are the main attraction of Tulum – and for good reason, once you enter the beach you will understand why! Turquoise waters, miles of white sand fringed with swaying palms and scattered amongst them are the most luxurious boutique hotels and boho beach clubs you ever laid eyes on!
One of the most popular beaches in Tulum is Playa Paraíso, known for its pristine sands and stunning views, here you can relax and throw your towel anywhere as it’s also public beach. For a more pampered experience head to South Beach, along the private section and spend the day at one of the best beach spots in Tulum at the beautiful Nomad, or even better stay here for a couple of days!
Read: Best Beach Hotels In Tulum & Tips
MAYAN RUINS
One of the best things to see in Tulum is undoubtedly the Mayan Ruins, they are no Chichen Itza, but what makes the experience special are the beautiful grounds and epic coastal backdrop, it is a marvellous sight to behold! A visit to the ruins is a must if you’re staying in Tulum, not only is it one of the top things to do in Tulum, but in the whole of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
A great option for visiting the Mayan Ruins in Tulum is this highly-rated half-day private experience, which includes a morning walking tour of Tulum’s Ruins, (away from the busy afternoon crowds) a local guide, snacks and water.
Tip! It’s possible to cycle to Tulum’s Mayan Ruins, head towards the public beach road and aim to arrive before 10am and avoid super busy weekends!
CENOTES
Cenotes are plentiful in Tulum, take a refreshing dip in a “cenote,” jungle swimming holes formed when underground springs cut into the limestone rock – it’s one of the best things to see in Tulum! They’ve been around for thousands of years and are incredible places to swim and explore the crystal-clear turquoise water.
The Yucatan Peninsula is home to over 6,000 cenotes, which means you’ve got plenty to choose from during your trip to Tulum. The best way to explore them is with a local guide, especially if it’s your first visit. On this authentic small group cycle experience you will discover three amazing cenotes and enjoy a Mexican lunch in a secret jungle lodge, the cenotes are not to be missed.
Book: Tulum, Cenote Trail Bike Tour
SCULPTURES
Tulum has attracted the art world by storm, there are several towering sculptures and art installations made by famous artists and designers dotted all around Tulum, sometimes it feels as though you are walking around an art museum when entering a hotel lobby!
You can find a few of them in the Hotel Zone such as the iconic Ven a La Luz (pictured above) at Boutique Ahau and for a more epic experience, you can book a meal or photo shoot at The Hand eco symbol within jungle hotel Hun Tulum. The costs are between $10 and $250 depending on the activity, visit at least one, they are truly unique things to see in Tulum!
Here‘ a selection of the most iconic sculptures:
- Ven a La Luz – Hotel Zone at Ahau Hotel
- Azulik Uh May – Mayan jungle art installation
- The Hand – Eco symbol at Hun Tulum
- Sfer Ik – Azulik Resort
Hire a photographer, take a look at the details here
SIAN KA’AN BIOSPHERE
Just along from South Beach lies the enormous Sian Ka’an Biosphere, a protected UNESCO area full of fauna and flora, a lagoon and around 23 Mayan archaeological sights. Inside the park, you’ll find dolphins, turtles, and more fish and birds than you can count, the area is one of the most beautiful and natural things to see in Tulum.
There are many different types of tours to get there, but the most popular activity is the Sian Ka’an boat tour to explore the jungle mangroves and saltwater lagoons, it makes for a great day trip without the hassle of hiring a 4×4 (the roads are pretty rough!) and pick-up is from your Tulum hotel.
MORE ACTIVITIES IN TULUM
Here’s a selection of activities you can’t miss!
Hire a Bike
Cycling around is a fun way of getting to know Tulum and reaching all the different beach clubs, restaurants and attractions quickly and cheaply (almost everyone cycles). Find all the best things to see in Tulum on two wheels!
Beach Yoga
Indulge in a beachfront yoga class with probably the most scenic views in Tulum! Yoga is everywhere in Tulum, so why not get into the spirit? Lula a Colibri and The Beach Tulum have wonderful sea-facing studios, it’s one of the best things to do in Tulum.
Beach Clubs
The beautiful boho beach club scene is plentiful in Tulum, it would be remiss not to explore one or two! Be Tulum and Nomade are my favourites and offer the most relaxed bohemian experience along South Beach while the central Hotel Zone is for partygoers and you can find your fix at Vagalume!
Wellness
Wellness and Tulum go hand in hand, what sets Tulum apart are the unique experiences on offer from Temazcal to sound healing and flower baths, Yaan Healing Sanctuary is the most authentic wellness centre and Azulik and Encantada hotels both offer wellness with an unbelievable dreamy setting.
Read: 9 Wonderful Experiences In Tulum
BEST DAY TRIP FROM TULUM
WORLD WONDER DISCOVERY
Chichen Itza is by far one of the most popular and spectacular attractions in Mexico, a must-visit for those interested in seeing one of the Wonders of the World!
Explore Chichen Itza, discover the colonial town of Valladolid, have lunch in a beautifully restored mansion and cool off in a cenote with this highly rated small group tour. It was one of the highlights of my week-long stay in Tulum!
Learn More: World Wonder Discovery
WHERE TO EAT IN TULUM
In Tulum, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking good places to eat and drink, from humble vans serving incredible coconut lattes to high-end restaurants twinkling in the jungle.
BREAKFAST & LUNCH
Raw Love Cafe
Raw Love is a fun rustic shack situated directly on the beach, a lovely breakfast spot for fresh juices, acai bowls and iced coffee. There’s also a second terrace in the jungle serving raw salads in a natural leafy shaded area. You’ll find it next to the Ahau Hotel and the Sculpture Park.
Matcha Mama
Matcha Mama is an iconic landmark for photographers and also for eating decorative acai bowls while sitting on a swing! It’s a good casual stop-off point if you are cycling along the Beach Road, if this isn’t your cup of tea there are plenty more places in the area.
Eat At Liefs
Eat At Liefs is a cute little green vegan van set along the Coba Av, it’s the best spot for iced coconut lattes and there’s a little garden area to sit in! They also serve vegan snacks such as banana bread with sustainable local ingredients.
Alma Verde
An attractive place to have brunch, Alma Verde is part of the Hunab Lifestyle Centre – a fab upmarket spot in Aldea Zama – one of the best new things to see in Tulum. The menu is creative and healthy, which is matched only by the pretty surroundings – the garden and interior design are unreal!
DINNER & DRINKS
Mezzannine Thai
A vibey beach-side Thai restaurant near the Mayan Ruins with sweeping sea views and fab cocktails (try the gin gin mule)! Mezzanine restaurant is a must-visit, a pleasant change of scene and tasty food, particularly the Queen Salad! Lunchtime or sunset are the best times to visit.
Nu Restaurant
Nu is in the middle of the most happening part of the Beach Road,located at Nest Hotel. It’s one of the top restaurants in Tulum to indulge in a luxury jungle dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and bespoke cocktails. Evenings are best, so make sure to reserve your table here.
Casa Banana
Casa Banana is a popular choice for atmospheric evening meals with a warm and rustic setting thanks to the jungle surrounds and candle lights. It offers an Argentinean menu where almost all of it is grilled – and unusual for Tulum, this one is less vegan-friendly.
Gitano Tulum
Set in the jungle, Gitano Tulum offers a modern twist on Mexican food and lighter meze dishes to have alongside a cocktail or two! Gitano is best visited in the evening when the ambiance is truly amazing, at some point the restaurant transforms into a cool club!
FOR A DRINK OR TWO…
Whether you’re looking for a candle-lit oasis, a stylish cocktail place, live music or a jungle club, you can find it in Tulum! Some of the best spots are located within the beach road/jungle area, these are:
- Casa Jaguar best Thursday evening
- Gitano best Friday evening
- Habitas best Saturday afternoon
- Nana’s Roof Top in Tulum Peublo
WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM
Wondering where to stay in Tulum? There are plenty of options from five-star hotels with all the bells and whistles to beautiful boutiques, tree houses and beach cabins, all decorated in the Tulum boho style.
The most important thing to be aware of is that Tulum is not walkable and there are 4 main neighbourhoods to consider when booking your hotel:
TULUM NEIGHBOURHOODS
Tulum Pueblo
The bustling town centre of Tulum with a local flavour, authentic restaurants and more affordable luxury accommodation than anywhere else in Tulum. You will need a car or a bike to get around as it’s the furthest away from the beach – a 30 minute bike ride along Av. Coba to the beginning of the Beach Road.
La Valeta
La Valeta is an up-and-coming area filled with luxurious hotels, long-term rentals and villas, you can find many beautiful small restaurants and cafés here as well as a community of mostly American ex-pats. One of the benefits of this area is that it’s brand new, up-market and closer to the beach than the town (just a 15-minute bike ride via Av. Kukulkan – avoiding the main road).
Aldea Zama
Aldea Zama is another new development area between Tulum Pueblo and the beginning of the Hotel Zone, set into the jungle area from Av. Coba. Luxury Airbnb’s and condos are plentiful as well as amazing restaurants and the popular Hunab Lifestyle Centre. Aldea Zama is one of the poshest and most private areas in Tulum, the higher prices also reflect that.
Hotel Zone (beach)
The Hotel Zone is the most popular and convenient spot in all of Tulum, it features the famous white strip of sand with luxury hotels, boutiques and restaurants at either side of the very long and busy Beach Road. It is the prime area of Tulum and if you pick the right beachfront hotel, the idyllic beach escape – you could easily spend a week with your feet in the sand without venturing further!
ACCOMMODATION IN TULUM
When it comes to accommodation in Tulum, there’s an abundance of choices and experiences. It will all depend on your budget and the neighbourhood that you would like to stay in.
Here are my top picks for where to stay in Tulum
Tulum Beach
- Nest check prices
- La Valise check prices
- Encantada check prices
Tulum Pueblo
- Una Vida check prices
- Hotel Bardo check prices
- Casa Agape check prices
Valeta
- Hotel Muara & Spa Tulum, check prices
- Hotel Boutique TerraNova check prices
- Kan Tulum check prices
Aldea Zama
- Naj Tulum check prices
TULUM TRANSPORT GUIDE
GETTING TO TULUM
Cancun International is the nearest airport to Tulum and the duration is 10-12 hours direct from the UK then a further 2-hour transfer to Tulum – assuming you’re travelling directly in a transfer car.
Note: Cancun Airport is always extremely busy, on my last arrival it took 2 hours to check through, collect luggage and depart the building!
Getting from Cancun Airport to Tulum:
- Pre-book a direct hotel transfer £70-£100
- Book a shuttle Cancun Airport Transportations
- Reserve a seat on the Ado bus (arrives Tulum Pueblo)
HIRE A CAR
To conveniently rent a car for a trip to Tulum, Mexico, consider using Discover Cars. They provide a comparison of car rental prices from various vendors at Cancun Airport, ensuring you find a great rate. It’s an effective and straightforward way to secure a rental car without hassle – and you can start exploring those off-the-beaten-path places and amazing attractions straight away!
GET AROUND TULUM
Bike: Cycling is common and a cheap mode of transport, there’s bike racks, car parks and bikes to hire everywhere. Note, the best hotels have free bike hire.
Taxi: Taxis are plentiful in Tulum, just flag one down and agree on a price as they are very expensive, even short distances! The cost is also higher at night.
Uber: Unfortunately, there’s isn’t an Uber service or anything like it in the Yucatan.
ADO Bus: The public bus in centred in Tulum Pueblo, book all tickets in advance online for travelling out of Tulum, the station is very busy.
TULUM TRAVEL TIPS
CURRENCY
The currency in Tulum is Mexican Pesos, but most places accept US Dollars. Cash is best for, local places, transport and attraction entrance fees. It’s better to have Pesos before you enter Mexico and try and pay in advance for hotels with a credit card! (It’s not uncommon to see ‘cash on arrival’).
TIP! If you need an ATM, use a proper bank ATM located in Tulum’s town.
LANGUAGE
Spanish is the official language of Tulum, but American English is the most commonly spoken within the Hotel Zone of Tulum. Tulum is pretty touristic except for the town, however, a few keywords – hello, please and thank you would be useful.
PRICES
Is Tulum expensive? There’s no shying away from it, Tulum is an expensive destination. You will pay top Dollars for hotels, restaurants, drinks and taxis. An iced coffee will set you back $12 and a meal $35, the beachfront is highly priced for everything, and Tulum Pueblo is the most affordable.
SAFETY
Is Tulum safe? While there have been reports on crime in recent years, they are mainly gang-related over ownership, not directly aimed at tourists. As a precaution, you may want to stay clear of illegal jungle raves and troublesome nightclubs, but on the whole, it is safe to stay in Tulum for tourists.
TO SUM UP
Tulum is a one-of-a-kind tropical boho beach escape, there’s really nothing like it, if you plan right you could have the tropical trip of your dreams. Now you know what the best things to see in Tulum are and where to eat, drink and stay, you can start planning with confidence!
Plan your Tulum trip!
Here’s my go-to list of resources for booking flights, accommodation, tours and more:
- Booking.com: For the best accommodation rates
- Trip Advisor: Check out the latest reviews & trips
- Get Your Guide: For incredible day trips
- Discover Cars: Best car hire price comparison
Read Next:
- Discover Hidden Gems: Best Hotels In Tulum Pueblo
- Paradise Found: Best Beach Hotels In Tulum
- 9 Unmissable Experiences In Tulum
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