- Top Attractions
- See & Do
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Why Visit Tulum
Tulum, originally Zama or 'City of Dawn,' was a key Mayan port in the 13th-15th centuries. Its Post-Classic architecture is defined by El Castillo, perched on a 12-meter cliff. This structure served as a lighthouse, guiding canoes through the reef.
When visiting Tulum, explore the Yucatán's unique cenotes, like the cavernous Dos Ojos. These limestone sinkholes offer a cool freshwater escape. Nearby, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site, protects a vast tropical ecosystem.
Taste the regional cuisine influenced by Mayan traditions. Savor cochinita pibil, slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote. Fresh seafood tacos are a staple. For a unique drink, try Xtabentún, an anise liqueur made with local honey and rum.
- TulumMexico
- TulumMexico
- TulumMexico
- TulumMexico
Quick Travel Essentials
- Dec-Aprdry, pleasant temperatures, peak tourist season
- May-Aughot, humid, rainy season, fewer tourists
- Sep-Novwarm, occasional rain, moderate crowds
- #LightClothing
- #ComfortableSandals
- #Sunscreen
- #Swimsuit
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- #InsectRepellent
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 days for beaches & day trips
- Mexican Peso ($)
- Spanish
- Limited English in rural areas
- #TulumRuins
- #GranCenote
- #SianKa'anBiosphereReserve
- #AkumalBeach
- #CenoteCalavera
- #TulumBeach
- Explore Tulum ruins
- Swim in cenotes
- Relax on Tulum beach
- Visit Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
- Try local cuisine at roadside stands
Recommended Hotels in Tulum by Experience
Things to do in Tulum
Discover
Discover things to do in Tulum, from the cliffside Tulum Archeological Zone to the underwater caves of Gran Cenote. Explore the vast Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site, for unparalleled natural beauty and ancient Mayan history.
Experience
Snorkel in crystal-clear cenotes, take a traditional cooking class to learn Yucatecan cuisine, or join a guided tour of Coba's ancient ruins. Browse local artisan markets for handmade crafts and experience the region's rich cultural heritage.
Tulum Archeological Zone
Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Gran Cenote
Cavern system with clear water for swimming and snorkeling.
Playa Paraiso
Public beach with white sand and turquoise waters.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
UNESCO site with diverse wildlife, lagoons, and mangroves.
Coba Ruins
Ancient Mayan city with the climbable Nohoch Mul pyramid.
Cenote Dos Ojos
Two connected cenotes popular for cavern diving and snorkeling.
Ven a la Luz
Iconic wooden sculpture symbolizing human connection to nature.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Fly into Tulum Int'l Airport (TQO) for a quick ride to town. Or, land at Cancún (CUN) and take an ADO bus (~2 hrs) or a pre-booked Tulum shuttle bus from the airport to city center. The Tren Maya now also offers a scenic train to Tulum.
Getting Around
Bicycles are essential for the beach zone. Taxis are plentiful, but always agree on the fare before you go. For longer distances, shared vans (*colectivos*) are the main public transport in Tulum, running along the main highway between areas.
Local Essentials
These Tulum travel tips for first-timers are essential: carry Mexican pesos for taxis and street food, as ATMs are limited on the beach. If driving in Tulum, beware of large speed bumps (*topes*) and potholes, especially on unlit side roads.
Where to Stay in Tulum
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Tulum by tasting wood-fired cochinita pibil and zesty ceviche. The local cuisine is best enjoyed with smoky mezcal. Days are for beachside bites, while dinner reservations are often made for later in the evening.
Enjoy
Eat at Hartwood's jungle-chic setting, book ahead. Sip mezcal at Gitano's stylish bar, go Friday. Grab a quick bite at Burrito Amor's bustling spot, cash preferred. This is the best way to taste the Tulum food scene.
Hartwood
Sustainable cooking in a jungle setting. Reserve early.
Rosa Negra
Upscale Latin American food with a lively party vibe.
El Camello Jr
Authentic, fresh seafood loved by locals. Expect waits.
Taqueria Honorio
Famous for cochinita pibil tacos. Arrive early.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Tulum's culture through its local holidays and folk traditions. Must-see events include the Hanal Pixán, a Mayan Day of the Dead ceremony, and colorful processions for the Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, connecting deeply to local heritage.
Enjoy
Discover Tulum's creative side with its world-class music festivals and immersive art events. Enjoy electronic music in jungle settings or explore large-scale art installations. These are things to do in Tulum that define its modern vibe.
Discover Tulum's creative side with its world-class music festivals and immersive art events. Enjoy electronic music in jungle settings or explore large-scale art installations. These are things to do in Tulum that define its modern vibe.
Día de Muertos (Hanal Pixan)
Mayan Day of the Dead rituals in early Nov. with ofrendas.
Zamna Festival
Major electronic music festival in Dec/Jan with global DJs.
Art With Me
Large-scale art, music & cultural festival in November.
Carnaval de Tulum
February/March event with parades, music, and dancing.
Tulum Food, Spirits & Wine Festival
Gastronomy event with tastings & dinners held in November.
Tulum International Film Festival
Independent and auteur cinema screenings.
A Beautiful Escape
Tulum is a fantastic escape. The combination of ancient Mayan ruins right on a cliff above the turquoise water is just stunning. The beaches are soft and white, perfect for just relaxing. It's got a laid-back feel but also plenty to see and do.
Amazing Natural Pools
The cenotes here are incredible. We spent a lot of time swimming in these crystal-clear freshwater pools. Gran Cenote was a highlight with its caves and turtles. It's a completely different kind of water experience than the ocean. So refreshing.
So Restorative and Calm
Tulum is the perfect place to disconnect and focus on wellness. There are so many yoga studios and healthy food spots along the main beach road. Waking up for a sunrise class by the ocean is an amazing way to start the day. Truly restorative.
Perfect for a Beach Holiday
I just wanted a simple beach vacation, and this was it. The sand at Playa Paraiso is like powder and the water is warm and calm. We found a great spot, rented a daybed, and just enjoyed the sun and the sound of the waves. Very simple and perfect.
Great Food and Nightlife
The food scene is on another level. So many cool open-air restaurants with amazing designs. Had some incredible cochinita pibil tacos. The evenings are great too, with lots of places to get a good cocktail with music right on the sand.
Loved the Boutiques!
I loved walking through the hotel zone and browsing the little boutiques. There are so many unique, handcrafted items you can't find anywhere else. The whole area has a stylish, bohemian feel. It's more than just a beach; the town is great.