About Tulum
Tulum sits at the intersection of ancient Maya heritage and bohemian beach culture on Mexico's Riviera Maya. Clifftop ruins gaze out over powder-white sand and impossibly blue water, while inland cenotes offer crystalline freshwater swimming beneath cathedral-like limestone caverns. A thriving food scene, eco-conscious boutique hotels, and easy access to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve round out a destination that balances relaxation with discovery.
Things to Do
Tulum Archaeological Zone
Explore the only major Maya city built directly on the Caribbean coast, perched on a cliff with sweeping ocean views.
Cenote Gran Cenote
Swim and snorkel through a half-open limestone sinkhole surrounded by jungle, with underwater stalactites and resident turtles.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Float down ancient Maya canals through a UNESCO-protected lagoon teeming with dolphins, manatees, and hundreds of bird species.
Jungle Restaurant Scene
Dine under palapa roofs at open-air restaurants where chefs blend traditional Yucatecan flavors with contemporary global techniques.
Bike the Beach Road
Rent a cruiser and pedal the sandy path connecting beach clubs, art installations, and roadside taco stands along the hotel zone.
Local Tips
Visit the ruins right at 8 a.m. opening to beat the large tour-bus groups arriving from Cancún by mid-morning.
Carry pesos for cenote entrance fees and small roadside vendors as many do not accept cards.
Book a colectivo (shared van) from Tulum town for about 40 pesos to reach Playa del Carmen or cenotes without renting a car.
Mosquitoes are fierce at dusk in the jungle hotel zone, so pack strong repellent and lightweight long sleeves.
Plan Your Trip
Browse 2 curated trips to Tulum. Each includes a 7-day itinerary you can customize.
