Discover Tulum: Your Tropical Paradise Awaits
Nestled along the breathtaking Caribbean coast, Tulum is a captivating blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum offers a unique escape for every type of traveler.
Stroll through the enchanting streets filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and locally owned eateries that showcase the best of Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the mesmerizing cenotes or lounging on the beach, Tulum invites you to unwind and connect with nature.
As you immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere, you’ll find a diverse community of like-minded adventurers and wellness enthusiasts. From 5 star resorts to bustling beach clubs, Tulum is the perfect destination for those in need of a reset.
Dive into my travel guide to unlock insider tips and hidden gems that will help you make the most of your Tulum experience. Adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories await—let Tulum inspire your next journey!
Getting There
As of December 1, 2023 Tulum’s international airport opened for commercial flights. This is great news for travelers as they can now avoid the 2 hour drive from Cancun to Tulum.
Accommodations
When planning your trip to Tulum, you’ll find two distinct areas to choose from: the city side and the beach side. Each offers its own unique experience, catering to different preferences and budgets. Check out this post where I share the pros and cons differing between the two sides of Tulum.
Attractions & Activities
Cenotes
Cenotes are incredible natural sinkholes that are commonly found in Mexico, specifically on the peninsula where Tulum is located. These stunning wonders are popular for swimming, snorkeling, diving and make for incredible photo ops. Between the beauty and the rich history of cenotes, you can’t miss the opportunity to check a few out during your trip to Tulum. My top 3 must visit cenotes are: Cenote Suytun, Cenote Oxman and Cenote Ik Kil.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This wonder is a 2 hour drive from Tulum, but more than worth it. Visiting Chichen Itza is not just a journey through history; it’s an opportunity to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization. With its awe-inspiring architecture and intriguing stories, Chichen Itza is a destination that will leave you inspired and in wonder.
Daniel Popper Sculpture
The Daniel Popper sculpture in Tulum, known as “The Sentinel,” is a breathtaking work of art that beautifully blends with the natural surroundings. Standing at the entrance of the Ahau Tulum resort, this striking piece features a towering figure with a serene expression, intricately carved from natural materials. This work of art is beautiful to admire and a great photo op.
Kin Toh
Kin Toh is more than just a restaurant; it’s a sensory journey that combines exceptional food, stunning surroundings, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. I went for the “Sunset Drink Experience” on one of their jungle canopies and it was a 10/10 experience. While you sip your craft cocktail, you can enjoy a remarkable sunset and listen to fun beats from the live DJ. This is an unbeatable experience in Tulum!
Laguna de Kaan Luum
This stunning lagoon is located just a short drive from Tulum. Offering a tranquil escape from the bustling beach scene. This natural wonder features striking turquoise waters surrounded by lush jungle, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure. For just 15 USD, you can spend the day away from the crowds of Tulum and interact with locals.
Tulum Jungle Gym
The Tulum Jungle Gym is a one-of-a-kind fitness experience that beautifully merges exercise with the natural beauty of the Tulum jungle. This gym is a one of a kind experience featuring unique features including a beach and jungle workout area, allowing you to exercise in different natural settings. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking to stay active while on vacation, this gym provides an inspiring space to elevate your workout routine.
Zip Lining
The jungle scenery of Tulum makes zip lining a must-do! For our trip we opted for The Tulum Zip Line Experience. This 5 hour excursion includes zip lining, rappelling, a cenote swim experience, an ATV ride and lunch! For a little under $80 USD/person this excursion is well worth the price!
Dining
Tulum is a culinary delight, offering a diverse range of food that reflects both traditional Mexican flavors and modern influences. From ceviche to street tacos, you won’t be disappointed. Tulum has restaurants that cater to all diets and restrictions. I’ve highlighted some of my favorite restaurants down below!
Breakfast/Cafes
- Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar: Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar is a vibrant, laid-back spot famous for its refreshing mojitos and unique atmosphere. Nestled in the metro area of Tulum, this bar features a colorful outdoor seating area adorned with tropical plants and rustic decor. Along with enjoying fabulous mojitos and delicious meals, guests also get to experience watching the process of making fresh sugar cane juice.
- Ki’bok Coffee: Ki’bok Coffee is also located in the city of Tulum. This cafe is known for its excellent coffee sourced from local Mexican growers. The coffee is strong and the pastries are delectable. They even sell their coffee, making it a great gift or keepsake to remember your time in Tulum.
- Matcha Mama: Matcha Mama is a charming eatery that specializes in all things matcha. This health-focused spot features a vibrant menu filled with matcha-based drinks, smoothies, and bowls that cater to both health enthusiasts and casual visitors. Matcha Mama is perfect for those looking to indulge in nutritious and delicious options while soaking up Tulum’s laid-back lifestyle.
- Raw Love Tulum: Raw Love Tulum is a delightful eatery dedicated to serving healthy, raw, and vegan cuisine. With locations on both the city and beach side of Tulum, this café features a menu filled with vibrant smoothies, acai bowls, and nourishing salads made from fresh, organic ingredients.
Lunch/Dinner
- Burrito Amor: Burrito Amor in Tulum’s metro area is a vibrant and inviting spot known for its delicious, made-to-order burritos. The atmosphere is laid-back, reflecting Tulum’s beachy vibe, with colorful decor and a welcoming ambiance. Providing an extensive menu paired with affordable options, Burrito Amor is a can’t miss dining experience!
- El Pescador: El Pescador was hands down my favorite dinner experience on the city side of Tulum. This charming seafood restaurant is known for its fresh catches and laid-back atmosphere. Located just off the beach, this gem offers fresh seafood without the increased prices you may find at restaurants located on the beach.
- Encanto Cantina: Encanto Cantina is a lively spot that blends traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist. The restaurant hosts a vibrant, colorful environment and often features live music or DJ sets, creating a fun, festive atmosphere. The menu offers a range of classic Mexican dishes, alongside innovative cocktails made with fresh ingredients. It’s a great place to unwind with friends over delicious food and drinks, making it popular among both locals and tourists.
- Tora Tulum: Tora Tulum offers a unique dining experience with a focus on Japanese cuisine infused with Mexican flavors. The restaurant features a sleek, contemporary design and an open kitchen, allowing guests to watch chefs at work. The menu includes sushi, sashimi, and grilled dishes, all crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Tora is known for its stunning presentations and creative cocktails, making it a perfect spot for a special evening or a memorable dining experience.
Beach Clubs
Tulum is renowned for its stunning beach clubs, each offering a unique atmosphere, exceptional service, and beautiful settings along the Caribbean coastline. Here’s a look at 2 of the beach clubs I visited during my time in Tulum:
- Ana y Jose: This charming beachfront hotel and restaurant is known for its laid-back, bohemian atmosphere and stunning ocean views. It’s one of the more affordable beach clubs, with the cost for a day pass generally ranging from $30 to $50 per person. This fee often includes a credit towards food and drinks, making it a great option for those looking to relax by the beach for the day at an affordable price!
- Taboo Tulum: Great for fun day partying or a wild night out, Taboo is undoubtedly one of the most popular beach clubs in Tulum. Taboo can be a bit on the pricier side—the day I went a day pass was upwards of $100 when I went. However, I would say the price is worth it. $50 of your entrance fee will go towards food and drink, but that will go fast as certain entrees can reach $40. The vibe of Taboo perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Tulum. Boozy drinks, great music and good vibes all around.
Conclusion
Tulum is a destination that truly offers an experience for everyone. As you plan your journey, keep in mind the diverse activities and accommodations that cater to all preferences and budgets. The recent opening of Tulum’s international airport makes it easier than ever to embark on this unforgettable adventure. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover Tulum—a place where your tropical paradise awaits, filled with adventure, relaxation, and memories that will last a lifetime. Let the magic of Tulum inspire your next getaway!
