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Tulum Visitors Guide: The Best Things To Do In Tulum Mexico

Home » TulumTulum Visitors Guide Last Updated on March 6, 2026 ⋅ Written By: author avatar

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Laura Schulthies Laura Schulthies is a seasoned travel journalist and content creator specializing in tropical and island destinations worldwide. With over 15 years of experience in journalism and travel writing since her early career beginnings, Laura brings extensive hands-on travel experience and professional guiding expertise to readers seeking authentic insights into paradise locations. See Full Bio and reviewer avatar

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Daniel Mode Daniel Mode is a seasoned travel writer and documentary professional specializing in tropical and island destinations worldwide. With his documentary work with the Discovery Channel and over 20 years of travel writing experience since 2002, Daniel brings decades of media production expertise and hands-on travel experience to readers seeking authentic insights into paradise locations. See Full Bio

Breathe it in…the salty air, the wafting of floral incense, the deep sweetness of tropical flora and fauna…exhale slowly. You have arrived in Tulum. The magic of Tulum, and the reason it has become such an extraordinary destination in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, lies not only in the history of the nearby Mayan ruins of the same name, but in the energetic pull the city and sea have over those who come to visit. Even if you’re staying in a Tulum all inclusive resort, we suggest getting out and exploring all the great things to do in the area. Below is our guide to making the best of your visit to Tulum. We hope you enjoy!

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Where Is TulumWhen To VisitGetting There & AroundThings To Do In TulumTulum FAQWhere To StayWhat To EatWhat To PackFrequently Asked Questions

Tulum Ruins At Sunrise Tulum History

A Bit Of History

Tulum was the last great city constructed and inhabited by the Mayan people between the 13th and 15th centuries. It was a site of worship to the Great Descending God whose image adorns the temples within the site.

Tulum was also of great importance for sea trade, most specifically for the trading of obsidian. Tribes from all over Mexico and other Central American countries would travel to this Caribbean port for commerce.

It’s said that the great wall around the city was erected to protect it from envious traders and pirates who wanted to steal the prime location for themselves.

Tulum Today

Tulum has become a very popular tourist spot in recent years for visitors of all types. The ancient Mayan ruins, perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, are well preserved and make for an impressive day tour. The beaches are stunning, with soft sand and clear blue water, perfect for relaxation. The town has a relaxed and bohemian feel, with unique shops and tasty local food. Tulum has more recently become a hot spot for luxury travelers as well and offers numerous gorgeous resorts and impressive nightlife options. Whether you’re exploring history, enjoying the beaches, or soaking up the town’s laid back vibes, Tulum offers a memorable experience for everyone.

Is Tulum Safe?

Tulum is generally safe for tourists, especially in the beach zone and main tourist areas where there’s increased security presence. It doesn’t face too many issues with gang-related violence, but petty crime and theft towards tourists do occur from time to time.

Despite the little rise in crime, Tulum is a hotspot destination and it is still possible to have a very safe and enjoyable visit as long as you travel with general caution. Avoid being out after dark and be aware of your surroundings.

Where is Tulum?

Tulum is located on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The town, often called Tulum Pueblo, and the nearby Tulum Mayan Ruins are in the heart of the Riviera Maya on the Caribbean Sea. Tulum is approximately 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and 90 minutes south of Cancun by car.

Tulum, like other towns and islands in the region, is adjacent to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-longest coral reef system in the world. This puts Tulum and its neighbors in a perfect spot for turquoise Caribbean waters, white sand beaches, and world-class snorkeling and diving. This is DEFINITELY the island life!

Tulum Map

The Best Time to Visit Tulum

Looking for the best month to visit Tulum? The tropical climate in Tulum is fairly predictable and easy to make plans around. Without much of a temperature difference throughout the year, (the average temperature lingers around 83° F) it’s the rainy season that most travelers should pay attention to.

January – April

Perfect weather-wise, but is considered the “peak season” with the highest influx of tourists. If you are not a people person, consider this. The ocean, cenotes and swimming pools (that aren’t heated) can still be a little chilly for some. High season runs December through April, with peak pricing during Christmas/New Year (book 4-6 months ahead), Spring Break in March, and Easter week.

May – October

The hottest and rainiest months of the year but still plenty of wonderful sunshine and fantastic warm water for swimming and snorkeling. Sargassum seaweed can be a problem during the summer as it builds up on the beaches. The hurricane season peaks in September and October so keep an eye on the forecasts and definitely get travel insurance just in case. Fewer tourists mean lower rates at hotels, resorts and tour companies during this time.

November – December

The autumn-winter months are considered by many to be the best times to visit Tulum. The hurricane season has passed by this time, and the humidity is low. It can be a little “cool” in the evenings so bring a jacket. For the best value with good weather, consider November or early December before the holiday rush begins.

January – April

May – October

November – December

When Is Tulum Hurricane Season?

Tulum hurricane season begins in late May and lasts until early November, with the peak occurring between August and October. The odds of a hurricane hitting Tulum are low (less than half a dozen hurricanes have hit the Yucatan in the past 40 years), but hurricanes traveling near Tulum can still cause inclement and severe weather. Be sure to check weather reports ahead of time and we always suggest getting travel insurance during these months just in case.

A Sunny Day At Tulum Beach Sunny Tulum Beach

A Sunny Day At Tulum Beach

How to Get to Tulum & Around

There are a few ways to get to Tulum and around the area.

Arrival by Air

A major game-changer for travelers: Tulum now has its own international airport. The new Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO) cuts down travel time dramatically for those who can snag a direct flight. Located just 12 miles (20 kms) from Tulum center, the airport offers 20-30 minute transfers compared to nearly two hours from Cancun.

Airlines currently serving Tulum Airport include American Airlines (Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami), Delta (Atlanta), United (Houston year-round, Newark seasonally), JetBlue (New York JFK seasonally), Air Canada and WestJet (Toronto, Montreal, Calgary), Air Transat (Quebec City, Montreal), Aeromexico (Mexico City), and Viva Aerobus (Mexico City, Monterrey, Guadalajara).

You still have the option of flying into Cancun International Airport (CUN) when traveling to Tulum, as it remains the primary gateway with far more flight options, with over 100 destinations served by 500+ daily flights. It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car and 2.5 hours by bus to get from the Cancun International Airport to Tulum.

Search for great deals on flights to Cancun here.

Airport Shuttles to Tulum

Private or Group Shuttles can be pre-arranged to pick you up at the airport and take you to your Tulum accommodation. Group shuttles may stop at numerous hotels before yours, so this method could take a bit longer than a private shuttle (while being a bit cheaper).

Shared shuttles to Tulum’s hotel zone are around $45 per person, while private minivan shuttles can be booked for between $180 to $260 per van. You also have the option to book a luxury SUV/van shuttle for between $260 to $435. We recommend getting a private shuttle if you are in a group of 2 or more people.

You can easily book ground transportation from the Cancun airport to your Tulum hotel here.

Rental Cars in Tulum

Renting a car might be the best scenario if you plan on exploring the area a bit. You can rent a car in Tulum town or at the Cancun airport. Rental cars are typically between $30 to $60 per day (once taxes and fees are added) at the Cancun airport. We recommend using National or Enterprise for your rental car at the Cancun airport. Book well in advance during December-January when prices can triple.

If you rent a car at the Cancun airport, head down the only highway southbound. You will pass Playa del Carmen, Akumal and after approximately 90 minutes you will arrive in Tulum Town. Be sure to check if your lodgings are in the Zona Hotelera (hotel zone) or Centro (town center), as your turn off will be on different sides of the road.

Search for great deals on rental cars at the Cancun airport here.

Search for great deals on rentals cars in Tulum town here.

Buses in Tulum

The bus system is very usable in Tulum town and you can easily catch a bus to Playa from the Cancun airport, then change busses to continue to Tulum. This is by far the most affordable way to travel to Tulum from Cancun, although definitely not the fastest. You can check out the ADO bus schedule here. Busses do not stop at hotels. Only bus stations.

Taxis in Tulum

Taxis in Tulum are an easy way to get around. Flag them down on the road or have your hotel call one for you. Taxis use fixed zone-based pricing, and rides from town (pueblo) to beach run around $23-$41 USD (400-700 MXN) one-way. Always agree on the fare before getting in.

Within the hotel zone or within Centro, prices are much more reasonable around $4-$7 dollars. Traveling back and forth between the Hotel Zone and Centro can add up though.

If you want to take a taxi TO Tulum, they are everywhere in Cancun and Playa del Carmen and will take you straight to your accommodation in Tulum. Be sure to discuss the prices in advance so you don’t get overcharged. Taxis from Cancun or Playa Del Carmen to Tulum are convenient but can be quite expensive. Typically $50 (Playa) to $100 (Cancun) dollars.

Things to Do in Tulum

Tulum's Top Highlights

There is so much to do in Tulum. From visiting the Mayan ruins to beach lounging to bicycle riding and more. Here are just some of the activities you can enjoy!

1Explore The Tulum Mayan Ruins Visit The Tulum Mayan Ruins

1. Explore The Tulum Mayan Ruins

The Tulum Ruins archaeological site is most likely what brought you to the region in the first place, so go see it! The energy of this magical, ancient place is what has been calling tourists here for centuries. The ruins are perched over the sea in a breathtaking locale, the only major Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Visiting the ruins in 2026 requires paying three separate fees at the entrance:

INAH Archaeological Zone: $5 USD (100 MXN) (increasing to $11 USD / 210 MXN)
CONANP National Park bracelet: $7 USD (120 MXN)
Parque del Jaguar access: $16 USD (295 MXN)
Total fees for non-Mexico residents: $28-34 USD (515-625 MXN)

Guides are available at the entrance if you are keen to really understand the historical significance of the place, but strolling solo is always a pleasure too. Guided tours $46-$57 USD (800-1,000 MXN) provide excellent historical context.

To join a great group tour that includes transport, lunch, the Tulum Ruins, ocean snorkeling at Turtle Bay, and a cenote, check out this tour.

To join an inexpensive group tour that includes transport from Cancun, Playa or Tulum center, English speaking guide, and a fantastic side trip to swim at a local cenote, check out this tour.

If you’d like a private tour including guide and transport from your hotel, this tour is the most highly rated.

For more info on visiting the Tulum Ruins, check out our Tulum Ruins Visitors Guide.

2Visit A Cenote Swim In A Cenote In Tulum

2. Visit A Cenote

Talk about healing properties. The cenote choices in the Tulum area are vast and diverse, as there are literally dozens of incredible locations nearby. You can swim, scuba dive, snorkel, or just walk through one of these breathtaking and powerful forces of nature.

Check out this very popular full-day cenote tour that includes transportation, lunch and three epic cenotes. Also, this half-day cenote tour is highly popular as well.

If you want to scuba dive in a cenote, try this beginners diving class that includes a lesson and an introductory cenote dive OR if you are already scuba certified, go for this top rated cenote diving tour in the area. For both tours, all equipment is included.

For more cenote info and great Tulum cenote recommendations, be sure to check out our Ultimate Cenote Guide.

ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP : GET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel Insurance is a must in our opinion. Standard health insurance likely doesn’t cover you while outside of the country so travel insurance will cover any emergency medical needs as well as trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage (it happens), flight delays, missed connections and more. You can easily compare the top-rated travel insurance plans here.

3Experience The Adventure Parks Adventure Parks in Tulum

3. Experience The Adventure Parks

Just north of Tulum are a cluster of world famous adventure parks unlike anything you’ve probably experienced before. The most famous is Xcaret, with its meandering canals you can swim through, incredible beach coves, cultural shows, jungle hikes, and so much more. They are a little pricey, but the adventure parks are widely considered a must-do in the area. Other very popular parks include Xplor with its caves, ziplines, rafting and ATVs, Xel-Ha with its waterslides, snorkeling, mangrove tubing and other water activities, Xplor Fuego a nighttime torchlight adventure, Xenotes cenote experience, Xoximilco floating fiesta and the oddly popular Xenses optical illusion park. We HIGHLY recommend purchasing tickets for these parks in advance as the parks have limited capacity and long ticket lines.

4Go To The Beach Tulum Beaches: The 5 Best Beaches In Tulum

4. Go To The Beach!

With so many beautiful beaches to choose from it’s a sure bet you can find find a dreamy spot, perfect for a sarong and a picnic basket! Bring your swimsuit as the water can be perfect. Take a fun kiteboarding lesson, if you’re bold. Hotels in the Zona Hotelera are on the beach, but if you’re staying in town, the beach is just 10-15 minutes away.

For more Tulum beach info and great beach recommendations, be sure to check out our Tulum Best Beaches Guide.

*Note: Since 2008, Sargassum (seaweed) has regularly arrived on the Caribbean coast of Mexico (Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, etc.) from April to August. Many resorts and beaches remove the seaweed from the sand daily, but it can pile up by the water’s edge and be stinky in places where it’s not removed. For this reason, we suggest getting a hotel with a nice pool area for swimming or spending some time on the islands of Cozumel or Isla Mujeres which are largely protected from the seaweed.

5Visit The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve Beautiful Sian Ka-an Wetlands in Tulum

5. Visit The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 1.3 million acres of protected jungle, wetlands, mangroves, and reef. Tours typically access the reserve through Muyil (22 minutes from Tulum) or Punta Allen (3+ hours, more remote).

Float the winding river canals, take a boat to see manatees and sea turtles, or simply relax under a forest canopy. It is an unforgettable experience not to be missed!

Small group tours cost $150-220 USD and include boat rides through ancient Mayan canals, floating experiences in crystalline channels, and wildlife spotting including dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, sea turtles, and over 300 bird species that call this reserve home.

Check out this highly reviewed tour of the Sian Ka’an biosphere that also includes visiting the nearby Mayan ruins of Muyil.

6Discover Tulum Pueblo The Best Things To Do In Tulum: Explore Tulum Pueblo

6. Discover Tulum Pueblo

Tulum town center (aka Tulum Pueblo) has a magic all of its own. We always recommend to new travelers that the most important thing you can do when visiting a new place is to see where the locals live. The art, food and culture will delight you.

From Acai to Zanahorias (carrots) and all the delicious options in between, traditional Yucatan fare abounds here. Exploring the town on foot is nice but bicycles are also a popular way to get around. Bikes are for rent everywhere in town. Enjoy the journey!

Check out this fun Tulum walking food tour that goes off the beaten path to show you the best of local cuisine.

For the best food in Tulum, check out our Tulum Restaurant Guide and 7 Yucatan Foods That Will Blow Your Mind.

7Let Yourself Go Cooking Class in Tulum

7. Let Yourself Go

Discover something new or dabble in the peculiar. It’s what makes Tulum stand apart from the rest of the Yucatan. Take a cooking class, visit the art zone, explore the immense yoga and meditation class options, try your hand at scuba diving, take a dance class, start a conversation with a stranger…your options are endless here.

Temazcal ceremonies offer an authentic Mesoamerican experienc, a traditional sweat lodge purification ritual involving fire-heated volcanic stones, chanting, and spiritual cleansing. From cacao ceremonies and sound healing to breathwork sessions and Mayan clay rituals, Tulum’s spiritual community is alive and thriving for those seeking transformative experiences.

Getting out of your comfort zone and opening yourself up to new possibilities is what makes this beautiful place so intoxicating for so many. Open your mind and your courage to the possibilities. Be happy, be free.

Take a look at this popular cooking class and this scuba diving introduction class.

Check out this fun Stand-Up Paddleboaring Tour where you can connect with nature.

8Get Wild In The Jungle Junlge tours with ATV's & Ziplines in Tulum

8. Get Wild In The Jungle

The jungles around Tulum make for some incredible adventures! Numerous tours in the area will take you on jungle ATV rides, ziplining, cenote swimming, and more.

These Tulum adventures are different from the fancier adventure parks up north like Xcaret, Xplor, Xel-Ha & Xenotes and are more about getting wild out in nature. Prepare to get a little dirty and don’t forget your swimsuits!

Explore several popular ATV/Zipline jungle tours here.

9Go Paddleboarding in Kaan Luum Lagoon Tulum Travel Guide

9. Go Paddleboarding in Kaan Luum Lagoon

One of the hidden gems of Tulum is the Laguna de Kaan Luum, which sits around 5.5 miles (9 km) south of downtown Tulum. This magical lagoon is home to a vast cenote in its center, which imbues the lagoon’s water with a beautiful array of colors. You can visit the lagoon, rent a paddleboard, and paddle over the calm waters. No matter your level of experience with standup paddleboarding, Kaan Luum Lagoon is the perfect place to get out on the water.

You can also visit the Kaan Luum Lagoon and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on overwater hammocks. The lagoon has an entrance fee of around $17 USD (300 pesos). Although Kaan Luum Lagoon is rarely crowded, it’s a good idea to arrive early and visit in the morning on weekdays to have this tropical paradise to yourself. Keep in mind that sunscreen is not permitted in the lagoon, and no outside food or drink is allowed.

We love this fun tour that includes some of the best tacos in Tulum, a paddleboarding guide, equipment rental, and an entrance fee to Laguna de Kaan Luum.

10Have A Shopping Day Tulum Travel Guide

10. Have A Shopping Day

As a destination, Tulum is not just about beautiful beaches and yoga retreats. There is also an abundance of great shopping opportunities. These shops sell unique handmade Mayan crafts, artisan goods, and souvenirs. Tulum is filled with small boutiques and shops selling high-quality clothing and accessories from local artisans.

Tulum stands out for its traditional Mexican handicrafts, particularly textiles and jewelry. You can find beautiful huipiles (traditional dresses), handmade hammocks, embroidery, gourd lamps, art, handbags, and jewelry. Don’t forget about the locally made tequila and cocoa.

11Rent A Bike and Explore Tulum Tulum Travel Guide

11. Rent A Bike and Explore Tulum

Exploring the streets of Tulum by renting a bike is one of the best ways to experience all this city has to offer. Bike rentals in Tulum are affordable at between $10 to $12 USD per day. Ola Bike Tulum is an excellent bike rental company, and the rentals are good quality and inexpensive.

One of the best ways to explore Tulum Pueblo is by bike, and it’s a great way to experience the area thoroughly. You can easily wind through side streets while on a bike and quickly get from one side of the pueblo to the other. Follow the bike path on Main Ave to grab a bite at fantastic restaurants, shop at local boutiques, or cool down with some ice cream.

It only takes around 15 minutes to get to some of Tulum’s best beaches on a bike. Take Coba Avenue to get to Playa Paraiso; there are several bike racks at the beach for easy storage.

If you prefer a guided bike tour, this 5-hour bike tour around Tulum is perfect. You will visit 3 cenotes, stop for lunch and have a fun local guide. This is a great way to spend the better part of the day and still have time to go out and enjoy dinner in the evening!

12Discover Rio Secreto Tulum Travel Guide

12. Discover Rio Secreto

Rio Secreto is one of the most beautiful underground rivers in Mexico. You can only visit this magical spot via a guided tour, and on the tour, you can swim and climb your way through the cenote. Explore the beautiful stalagmites and stalactites while enjoying the crystal-clear water.

The limestone formations and gorgeous turquoise water in these breathtaking caves will leave you stunned. Be advised that you will have to pay for photos as you are not permitted to bring your camera into the cave system.

To experience this underground wonderland for yourself, it’s a good idea to book a tour before you visit. Spaces are limited for cave tours, with limited entry times per day.

13Visit The Coba Ruins Best Things To Do In Tulum: Visit The Coba Ruins

13. Visit The Coba Ruins

Located just 45 minutes from Tulum, the Coba Ruins offer a completely different experience from the coastal Tulum Ruins. The site covers 1,606 acres (6.5 sq km) with structures through the jungle.

Outstanding news for adventurous travelers: the Nohoch Mul pyramid at Coba has officially reopened for climbing, after years of closure. Standing 137 feet (42 m) tall with 120 steps, it’s the tallest climbable pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the views from the top over endless jungle canopy are absolutely stunning.

For the pyramid climb, a new wooden staircase system has been installed for safety. Access is limited to 15 people at a time, with a maximum of 15 minutes at the summit. Arrive early (8-10 AM) to avoid long waits and to beat the intense midday heat.

We HIGHLY recommend hiring a bicycle rickshaw to take you around the ruins. They are available just inside the entrance. The structures are kilometers apart, so walking through the site is time-consuming and exhausting. Plus, riding in the back of a bicycle rickshaw through the jungle is a blast!

Entry costs just $5.50 USD (100 MXN).

Check out this highly rated Coba Ruins Private Tour to explore at your own pace. Or add a little extra fun to your day with this Coba Ruins and Punta Laguna Monkey Reserve Tour.

Add a little extra fun to your day with this Coba Ruins and Punta Laguna Monkey Reserve Tour or this Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, Cenote, and Mayan Family Tour.

14Explore Punta Laguna Nature Reserve Tulum Travel Guide

14. Explore Punta Laguna Nature Reserve

You will find Punta Laguna Nature Reserve about 40 miles north of Tulum, and this is one of the most unique sightseeing attractions in the Yucatan because of the huge variety of monkeys to see. While the monkeys are a top draw for the reserve, it is also home to pumas, jaguars, and many species of birds.

The nearby Mayan village also gives you a glimpse into the indigenous Mexican lifestyle. It’s a good idea to hire a guide to tour the reserve, as guides provide a more authentic and informed experience for travelers new to Tulum. Guides also know where to spot the animals who call the nature reserve home. However, you can still have a great experience just wandering around the reserve on your own.

There are many Punta Laguna Nature Reserve tours to choose from. Most are guided and provide transportation via coach or bicycle.

We love this highly recommended Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, and Cenote tour, where you will zipline, hike, canoe, and then visit the reserve.

15Take A Rejuvenating Yoga Class Tulum Travel Guide

15. Take A Rejuvenating Yoga Class

Something about Tulum’s island vibe draws people to the meditative practice while they are visiting. You will find plenty of yoga retreats, sound healing treatments, and other health and wellness activities in Tulum. If you want to unwind, relax, and immerse yourself in some yoga sessions, Tulum is the place for you.

Whether you’re looking for rejuvenating yoga studios, water yoga, sound healing, or tranquil meditation retreats, you will discover everything you need to restore your balance and health in Tulum.

For a fun experience, try this Stand Up Paddle Yoga Class at a private lagoon where you can enjoy a 75-minute yoga class in the middle of the jungle.

Tulum FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Tulum?

November and early December offer the ideal balance of great weather, low humidity, and fewer crowds. The average temperature hovers around 83°F year-round, so it is always warm. Hurricane season wraps up by November, and you avoid the peak-season prices that begin mid-December through April. From our experience, this window delivers the best value. The guide above breaks down each season in detail so you can plan the perfect trip.

How do you get to Tulum from the airport?

The new Tulum International Airport (TQO) is just 12 miles from town, with transfers taking only 20 to 30 minutes. Airlines like American, Delta, and United now fly direct. Cancun Airport (CUN) remains the primary gateway but sits about 90 minutes north by car, with shared shuttles running around $45 per person. Our full guide above covers every transport option to help you choose the best fit.

How much does it cost to visit the Tulum Ruins in 2026?

Visiting the Tulum Ruins now requires three separate entrance fees totaling $28 to $34 USD for non-residents. These include the INAH archaeological zone fee, the CONANP National Park bracelet, and Parque del Jaguar access. Hiring a guide at the entrance costs $46 to $57 USD and provides excellent historical context. We found arriving early at 8 AM beats both crowds and heat. The guide above has our top tour recommendations for every budget.

Is Tulum safe for tourists?

Tulum is generally safe for tourists, especially in the beach zone and Aldea Zama where security presence is strongest. Petty crime and taxi overcharging are the most common issues visitors face. From our experience, agreeing on taxi fares before getting in and sticking to well-lit areas at night are the most important precautions. Our full guide above covers additional safety tips to help you enjoy a worry-free trip.

Should I stay in Tulum Pueblo or the Hotel Zone?

Tulum Pueblo (the town center) is the budget-friendly choice with authentic local food, nightlife, and easy cenote access. The Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) stretches along the beach with boutique eco-villas ranging from $200 to $600 per night. From our experience, staying in Pueblo saves 30 to 40 percent on accommodation while keeping beaches just 10 to 15 minutes away. The guide above compares both neighborhoods in detail to help you decide.

What are the best things to do in Tulum?

Start with the iconic clifftop Tulum Ruins, the only major Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Then swim in a cenote (there are dozens nearby), float the canals at the UNESCO-listed Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and explore Tulum Pueblo’s food scene. We also love paddleboarding at Kaan Luum Lagoon, where entry is about $17 USD. Our picks for adventure parks, tours, and hidden gems fill the guide above.

What is the best way to get around Tulum?

Bicycles are the most popular and practical option at $8 to $10 USD per day, perfect for cruising between town and beach. Taxis use fixed zone-based pricing, with rides from Pueblo to the beach running $23 to $41 USD one way. We found renting a car ($30 to $60 per day) works best for day trips to places like Coba or Chichen Itza. The guide above has our complete transportation breakdown.

Is the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve worth visiting from Tulum?

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 1.3 million acres of protected jungle, wetlands, and reef just south of Tulum. Small group tours ($150 to $220 USD) include boat rides through ancient Mayan canals and wildlife spotting for dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Most tours access the reserve through Muyil, only 22 minutes from Tulum. The guide above has our top-rated tour recommendations for this unforgettable excursion.

When is sargassum season in Tulum?

Sargassum seaweed typically arrives on Tulum’s beaches from April through August, with June through August being the peak months when buildup can be significant. Many resorts and beach clubs remove it daily, but it can pile up and get smelly in spots where cleanup is less frequent. From our experience, booking a hotel with a nice pool helps, and Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are largely protected from seaweed. The guide above explains how to plan around sargassum season.

Do I need a visa to visit Tulum, Mexico?

Visitors from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and most EU countries only need a valid passport for tourism stays of up to 180 days. You will also need a Tourist Permit (FMM), which costs around $45 USD and is typically included in your airfare. Keep this permit safe because you will need it when departing Mexico. The guide above covers all entry requirements so you can prepare ahead of your trip.

How far is Tulum from Cancun and Playa del Carmen?

Tulum sits about 90 minutes south of Cancun and roughly 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen by car along Highway 307. A taxi from Cancun runs around $100 USD, while from Playa it costs about $50. ADO buses offer the most affordable route, though they take about 2.5 hours from Cancun. The guide above details every transport method, including the new Tulum Airport shortcut.

What should I know about visiting cenotes near Tulum?

The Tulum area has dozens of cenotes (natural freshwater sinkholes) perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Popular options include Gran Cenote and Cenote Dos Ojos, with entry fees typically between 300 and 500 pesos. Full-day guided cenote tours with transportation and lunch are widely available. We recommend bringing cash in pesos, as most cenotes do not accept cards. The guide above features our favorite cenote picks and tour recommendations.

Where To Stay In Tulum

There are all types of wonderful accommodations in Tulum. From all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and more. Location and amenities are the two top things to look for. For information about the different neighborhoods and great hotel recommendations, check out our Tulum Hotel Guide.

Balcony view at the Encantada Tulum Hotel

For hotel recommendations for every budget, check out our Tulum Hotel Guide

Visit Tulum Hotel Guide

What To Eat In Tulum

Whether you’re looking to just grab a bite or go on a culinary adventure, there are some great restaurants all over Tulum. For some awesome restaurant recommendations at any budget, check out our Tulum Restaurant Guide.

Tulum Restaurant Guide. Beach Restaurant Tulum

For great restaurant recommendations, check out our Tulum Restaurant Guide

Visit Tulum Restaurant Guide

What To Pack For Your Trip!

The Mexican Caribbean is an enchanting wonderland of relaxation and adventure, one can easily have the trip of a lifetime here. Packing for such a vacation shouldn’t be hard, so we’ve put together a list to help you pack and included some of our favorites as well. Check out our What To Pack For Your Mexico Vacation Guide.

Check out our Packing List For Beach Vacation!

Mexico Vacation Packing Guide

MEXICAN CARIBBEAN

Cancun, Islands, Tulum and More

Tulum Restaurant Guide

Tulum is a dream locale for those looking to sample the best of Yucatan cuisine. From delicious streetside snacks to seafood at the seashore to five-star jungle dining, Tulum has you covered. Here are some of our favorite restaurants for all budget types.

Open Guide Best Tulum Hotels: The Best Hotels In Tulum

Tulum Hotel Guide

Tulum Town (often called Tulum Pueblo, or just Tulum) is a beautiful beach town near the famous Mayan Ruins of Tulum. Whether sleeping in town, or at the beach, if you're planning to travel to this gorgeous place, here are our top hotel picks in Tulum.

Open Guide Tulum Ruins Guide: Discover The Tulum Mayan Ruins

Tulum Mayan Ruins Guide

For decades, travelers of all ages have been enchanted by one of Mexico’s most unique tourist locations, Tulum. The stone ruins of the ancient Mayan city sit perched over the Caribbean sea and are a mesmerizing combination of history and beauty.

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The Best Tulum All Inclusive Resorts

Tulum is a beautiful beach town on the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan that combines high luxury options with hints of a bohemian vibe. Here are 10 of the best resorts in Tulum where guests can enjoy all inclusive amenities and more.

Open Guide Playa del Carmen Travel Guide. What to do in Playa del Carmen Mexico

Playa Del Carmen Visitors Guide

Playa Del Carmen is a jewel along Mexico's Riviera Maya. With its white-sand beaches, turquoise water, world-class amenities, nightlife, nearby Mayan cultural centers and offshore islands, there's a little something for everyone in "Playa".

Open Guide Cancun Visitors Guide. Things to do in Cancun.

Cancun Visitors Guide

Looking to plan the perfect Cancun vacation? Cancun is one of Mexico’s largest and most popular vacation spots. Our complete guide to Cancun includes when to visit, maps, the best things to do, top attractions, travel tips and more.

Open Guide Beach in Holbox: Things To Do In Holbox Mexico

Holbox Visitors Guide

Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) is an island paradise located off the northern tip of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. With fantastic snorkeling, no cars and a laid-back vibe, Holbox is one of our personal favorites. Here is our guide to the best of Holbox!

Open Guide Isla Mujeres Travel Guide: Things To Do In Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres Visitors Guide

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful small island off the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Often visited as pert of sailing expeditions from Cancun, Isla Mujeres has a lot to offer the island loving traveler. Here is our guide to the best of Isla Mujeres!

Open Guide Best Cenotes in Yucatan. Best cenotes in Tulum.

The Best Cenotes in Yucatan

There are thousands of cenotes in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. The cave-like structures filled will clear waters are a must-see when visiting the region. Swim, snorkel, or even scuba dive in the beautiful blue pools. Here are the BEST cenotes in Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Cancun and Valladolid.

Open Guide Yucatan Food, Yucateco food, the best yucatan dishes and yucatan cuisine

7 Yucatan Foods That Will Blow Your Mind

The Yucatan offers some of the best seafood and unique dishes in all of Mexico. From fish tacos to ceviches and more, the Yucatan is a surprising food destination. Here are some of our favorite foods of the Yucatan!

Open Guide Cozumel Visitors Guide. Things to do in Cozumel

Cozumel Visitors Guide

The island of Cozumel holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a place where one can access all the modern amenities and STILL find numerous places to get away from it all! Here is some basic info to get you started and many of the best things to do in Cozumel.

Open Guide Cozumel Diving: A Scuba diver exploring vibrant coral reef in Cozumel, Mexico with tropical fish

Cozumel Scuba Diving Guide

Get ready to step into the blue! Our Cozumel Diving Guide offers info for beginners and experienced divers alike. We've included top reef recommendations, dive resort recommendations and much more. Check out our Cozumel Diving Guide.

Open Guide Tulum Restaurant Guide: The Best Restaurants In Tulum