Explore Tulum, Mexico – Beaches, Ruins, Cenotes & Wellness

Located along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Tulum is a breathtaking fusion of Mayan heritage, tropical nature, and modern-day bohemian charm. Once a walled city and sacred seaport for the Maya civilization, today Tulum is a globally celebrated destination that combines eco-luxury, spiritual retreats, and white sand beaches washed by the Caribbean Sea.
 

From yoga at sunrise and cenote diving to exploring ancient ruins or enjoying mezcal cocktails at a beachfront bar, Tulum caters to every kind of traveler seeking beauty, culture, and tranquility.

📌 Quick Overview

🌟 Why Visit Tulum?

🏝️ Picture-perfect Caribbean beaches with turquoise water

🏛️ Well-preserved Mayan ruins perched on seaside cliffs

💧 Access to natural cenotes and jungle adventures

🧘‍♀️ A hub for yoga retreats, wellness centers, and eco-resorts

🌿 Eco-chic vibe with boutique hotels and farm-to-table restaurants

🦜 Near to biosphere reserves and wildlife-rich parks

🏛️ Top Things to Do in Tulum

1. Tulum Archaeological Site

Perched on a cliff above the Caribbean, the Tulum Ruins are among the most picturesque in Mexico. Key highlights include:

El Castillo: The ancient watchtower with ocean views

Temple of the Frescoes: Mayan carvings and murals

Beach below the ruins: Swim under the shadow of history

🎟️ Tip: Arrive early (opens at 8 AM) to avoid crowds and heat.

2. Explore the Beaches

Tulum’s coastline is world-famous for its beauty. Some of the best beaches include:

Playa Paraíso: True to its name—soft sand and palm trees

Las Palmas Beach: Quiet and less developed

South Beach Zone: Lined with boutique hotels and beach clubs

🧘‍♀️ Sunrise yoga or an early-morning swim here is magical.

3. Swim in the Cenotes

Tulum is surrounded by cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with freshwater, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Popular cenotes near Tulum:

Gran Cenote: One of the most famous, with turtles and caves

Cenote Calavera: Known as the “Temple of Doom” by divers

Cenote Dos Ojos: A two-part cave system, ideal for scuba

🚗 Many can be reached by car or bicycle from town.

4. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka’an is a protected paradise with:

Mangroves, lagoons, and tropical rainforest

Exotic wildlife including manatees, dolphins, and turtles

Remote beaches and ancient canals built by the Maya

🛶 Tours available via boat or kayak—great for eco-tourists.

5. Tulum Pueblo (Downtown)

The heart of local life in Tulum. Here you'll find:

Local taquerías and street food vendors

Artisan shops and craft markets

Colorful street murals and an authentic vibe

🍽️ Tip: Try the tacos al pastor or tamales from a local stall.

6. Wellness & Yoga Retreats

Tulum is a global wellness hub, offering:

Yoga studios with ocean views (e.g., Sanará, Yäan Wellness)

Meditation centers and sound healing sessions

Spa treatments using indigenous ingredients like copal and cacao

💆‍♀️ Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or spiritual seekers.

🍽️ What to Eat in Tulum

Local Mexican Favorites:

Antojitos la Chiapaneca: Tacos al pastor heaven

El Camello Jr.: Famous for ceviche and seafood

Taquería Honorio: Authentic cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork)

Upscale & International:

Arca: Jungle fine dining with a seasonal menu

Hartwood: Wood-fired cooking and farm-to-table ingredients

Raw Love: Vegan and raw food in a beachfront setting

🌿 Many restaurants use organic, locally sourced ingredients.

🛍️ Shopping & Artisanal Markets

Tulum offers a mix of boho-chic boutiques, eco-fashion, and handmade crafts:

La Veleta & Aldea Zama: Stylish neighborhoods with concept stores

Tulum Art Club: Local artwork and a creative café space

Market stalls along the beach road and downtown for souvenirs

🌵 Look for handcrafted hammocks, Mexican textiles, and turquoise jewelry.

🏨 Where to Stay in Tulum

Tulum is divided into two main areas:

🏝️ Tulum Beach Zone:

Eco-luxury resorts and yoga retreats

Close to beaches and nightlife

Top picks:

Azulik: Adults-only treehouse resort, no electricity, 100% natural

La Zebra: Beachfront luxury with family-friendly options

Nomade Tulum: Boho-chic resort with a wellness vibe

🏙️ Tulum Town (Pueblo):

Budget-friendly hotels and hostels

Easy access to local eateries and cenotes

Recommended stays:

Una Vida: Boutique hotel with a jungle atmosphere

Howlita Hotel: Minimalist and modern

Hostel Che: Great for backpackers and solo travelers

🎉 Nightlife & Entertainment

Though more low-key than Cancún or Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers:

Papaya Playa Project: Legendary beach parties under the moon

Gitano: Mezcal cocktails, live music, jungle ambiance

Batey Mojito Bar: Local hotspot with a vintage VW parked inside

Bonita Tulum Social Club: Laid-back bar for dancing and drinks

🎶 Friday and Saturday nights are most lively.

📅 When to Visit Tulum

🧭 Pro tip: Book early for December holidays and spring break.

🧳 Travel Tips

💧 Drink only bottled or filtered water

🚖 Use authorized taxis or rent a bike/scooter

🧴 Bring reef-safe sunscreen and biodegradable toiletries

💵 Carry cash (MXN) for small purchases and cenote entries

📶 Internet can be slow in beach zones—offline maps help!

🚗 How to Get to Tulum

From Cancún Airport (CUN):

Private shuttle (2 hrs)

ADO bus to Tulum town (3 hrs)

Rental car for maximum flexibility

From Playa del Carmen:

1 hour by bus, colectivo, or car

Local Transport:

Bikes, scooters, taxis, or colectivos (shared vans)

🗓️ Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Culture & History

Morning: Tulum Ruins

Afternoon: Swim at Playa Paraíso

Evening: Dinner at Hartwood, drinks at Gitano

Day 2: Nature & Adventure

Morning: Visit Cenote Dos Ojos

Afternoon: Explore Sian Ka’an Reserve

Evening: Relaxing beach massage and stargazing

Day 3: Wellness & Relaxation

Sunrise yoga class

Breakfast at Raw Love

Spa treatment or temazcal (Mayan steam bath)

Shopping and final beach walk