Looking for the ultimate Tulum travel guide?

I have been to Tulum Mexico numerous times I also had my wedding and elopement in Tulum Mexico. So I am very familiar with Tulum and I can help you with planning your first trip to Tulum so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive Tulum travel guide covering everything you need to know to plan the ultimate trip to Tulum.

Tulum is a picturesque destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast that has become wildly popular in recent years. With stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, incredible cenotes, laidback vibes, delicious food, rich culture and so much more, it’s easy to see why Tulum has become such a magnet for travelers.

The Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide: Top Things To Do, See, Eat, and More

Quick Highlight: Top Things To Do In Tulum

If you don’t have time to read this full guide right now, here is a quick snapshot of the most popular activities and attractions in Tulum that you won’t want to miss:

• Explore the Clifftop Tulum Ruins with views of the Ocean
• Swim in Tulum’s Cenotes like Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos
• Relax on Tulums white sand beaches
• Check out Tulum’s bohemian town center
• Visit Tulum’s hip hotels and beach clubs
• Take a day trip to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
• Wander Tulum’s restaurants that are beach front and eat delicious local cuisine

If you want more details on any of the above or other helpful Tulum travel tips, read on!

The Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide: Top Things To Do, See, Eat, and More

your ultimate travel guide Tulum

Where is tulum mexico

 where is Tulum located?  Tulum is located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast in the state of Quintana Roo, which is on the Yucatán Peninsula. Specifically, it sits along the Riviera Maya about 80 km (50 miles) south of Cancun and 130 km (81 miles) north of Chetumal.

Where is Tulum in Mexico

Tulum is situated about a 1.5-2 hour drive south of Cancun Airport which is the closest international airport. Its prime location along one of Mexico’s most beautiful stretches of coastline is a big reason it has become such a popular tourist destination.

The town of Tulum (also called Tulum Pueblo) is centered inland, while the main tourist area stretches along about 10 km of beachfront to the east known as the Hotel Zone or Zona Hotelera.

Just north of the Hotel Zone you’ll find the Tulum National Park section of beach near the Tulum Ruins archaeological site and entrance to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

How To Get From Cancun airport to Tulum Guide

Traveling to Tulum Mexico

The most common way to travel to Tulum Mexico is a by air. Multiple carriers offer non stop flights from the US Including

airfare tulum mexico

Since Tulum does not have an international airport, most travelers fly into Cancun International Airport and take ground transportation from there. The airport is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Tulum.

Airlines From US with Non stop flights to  that fly to Tulum

• American, Delta, United and Alaska Airlines all offer frequent nonstop service to Cancun from the United States.

Here are some options for getting to Tulum from Cancun Airport:

• Shuttle bus to Tulum: This is the most convenient and affordable option. Prices range from $15-45 USD per person each way. Some companies include hotel drop-off.
• Private transfer to Tulum: More expensive but faster and includes door-to-door service. Prices start around $100 each way.
• Rent a car In Cancun and Drive to Tulum: Gives you maximum flexibility to explore the region. Rates start around $20 USD per day.

Helpful Tip: I recommend booking all ground transportation ahead of time for peace of mind.

Once you arrive, the best way to explore Tulum is by renting a bike or scooter which costs around $10-15 USD per day. Taxis and collectivo vans are also easy to find.

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Best Time To Visit Tulum

Tulum enjoys a tropical climate year-round.

The Tulum high season runs from mid-December to April which brings perfect beach weather along with higher prices and more crowds.

Tulum summer rainy season (May to mid-September) sees fewer tourists and cheaper hotel rates but also more humidity, potential storms and seaweed on the beaches.

The best time to visit Tulum with pleasant weather and smaller crowds and lower hotel rates, aim for Tulum’s shoulder seasons in early December or late September/October.

How Much Time in Tulum?

How much time do you need in Tulum? You could easily spend a week relaxing along the beach. For first time visitors I recommend 5 – 7 days in Tulum add additional days if you are doing multiple day trips. 

Where To Stay In Tulum

Tulum offers a wide variety of accommodations to fit any budget. There are three main lodging zones to consider:

Tulum Town

This area offers simpler hotels and hostels at budget-friendly rates. It has an authentic, local vibe with the most restaurant and shopping options. The downside is it’s a 15-30 minute drive from the beach.

Good for: Travelers who want to immerse themselves in local culture without breaking the bank.

Tulum Beach Hotel Zone

This trendy stretch along the coast holds the majority of Tulum’s beachfront resorts, eco-chic boutiques, and popular beach clubs. It’s conveniently located right on the sand but also the most expensive area, with a party atmosphere.

Tip: This is the area I recommend you stay at if you are vacationing in Tulum. It’s in the heart of the action and everywehre is easily walkable or just a short taxi ride away.  I have stayed in Tulum beach zone twice and once in Tulum Town during our wedding in Tulum. 

Good for: Travelers who want beautiful beaches and resort amenities with a lively social scene.

Tulum Beach Road

The last few miles of beach before the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve offer a quieter ambiance. There are fewer hotels and dining options here but the beaches are gorgeous.

Good for: Travelers seeking peace and seclusion in a stunning natural setting.

Helpful tip: I recommend booking 3-6 months out if visiting during peak tourism seasons.

RELATED: Best Area To Stay in Tulum

Best Hotels in Tulum Mexico

With its effortless beachy vibes, Tulum offers plenty of charming and stylish places to stay for any budget or style. Here are some of the most popular options:

Tulum Luxury Beachfront Hotels

• Azulik – an eco friendly Boho-chic luxury right on the main beach road with amazing views of the ocean
• Be Tulum Hotel – Stylish suites, some with private plunge pools, gorgeous beach club
• Villas Esencia Tulum – Ultra-lux white sand escape once an Italian duchess’ private villa
• Nest Tulum – A beachfront Boho chic hotel with a private beach and restaurant on site

See more detailed curated Guide on The Best hotels in Tulum and The Best resorts in tulum. 

Tulum Mid-Range Boutique Stays

• Our Habitas Tulum – Charming beach cabana hotel meets global nomad vibes
• Hotel Tiki Tiki – Cheerful boutique with pool and bikes, close to downtown

The best area to stay depends largely on your interests and ideal balance of convenience, amenities, social scene and budget. With so many stylish boutiques, you really can’t go wrong

Top 21 Best Things To Do In Tulum

With its dazzling beaches, fascinating ancient ruins, cenotes, culture and cuisine – Tulum serves up experiences for every kind of traveler. Here are 12 top things you absolutely must do:

01. Tour the Tulum Mayan Ruins

Perched dramatically on a clifftop overlooking the sea stand Tulum’s magnificent ancient ruins dating back to the 13th – 15th centuries. Don’t miss climbing the castle pyramid El Castillo and exploring the crumbling temples while appreciating the spectacular views.

Helpful tip: Go early to beat the biggest crowds and afternoon heat. Or catch the sunset. 

Book a guided tour here that includes transportation and pick up and drop off.

02. Take a day trip to Chichén-Itzá

One of the most impressive areas of Mayan ruins, it is home to the famous pyramid. It is truly beautiful and so much to take in. The Temple of Kukulcan jets out and the entire area is equally impressive.

If you don’t have a rental car, I would recommend booking a tour to get out to the area. While you’re there, I’d combine it with a visit to the famous cenote Ik Kil which is not far away. I would do the ruins first and then cool off with a swim in the cenote after.

RELATED: How To Get To Tulum

03. Go Swimming in Cenotes

The limestone geography around Tulum is dotted with thousands of magical cenotes or sinkholes filled with the clearest turquoise water you’ve ever seen. Some popular picks are Gran Cenote, Dos Ojos and Calavera.

Book a spot in a tour and see mulitple popular Cenotes in one tour

04. Explore the local cenotes

It is an absolute must when visiting the Yucatan Peninsula. Cenotes are these natural swimming holes that are underground and fill up with natural water. They’ve been used as a source of water dating back to ancient Mayan times. There are over 6,000 cenotes!

When you choose to visit a cenote, I would highly recommend getting there early before the crowds. The popular ones fill up and even some now require a reservation to visit. You’ll need to rinse off before going in, you’ll need cash to enter at most, and be prepared to bring your own towel unless you want to pay for one. You can also rent snorkel gear at a few.

The favorites that I have visited in the area are:

• Cenote Calavera (the one with the small hole you see people jumping into. Closest to Tulum)
• Gran Cenote (absolutely beautiful and just past Calavera. When you arrive, head to the very back for the very blue water.)
• Ik Kil (This Cenote is near Chichén-Itza and can be done in combination with a visit there. It is breathtaking.)
• Dos Ojos Cenote
• Cenote Aktun Ha

RELATED: Where to Stay in Tulum

05. Have Fun at the Beach Clubs

Spend a day soaking up the tropical vibes at one of Tulum’s famous beach clubs like Papaya Playa Project, Gitano or Ziggy’s. Dance the afternoon away as DJs spin, indulge in delicious food and cocktails, or relax in a beachside hammock.

Tip: Beach clubs have a minimum spend usually a drink or two to access their private beach. It’s best to go early or book lunch here ahead of time.

06. Shop along Tulum Beach

So it’s not exactly on the beach, but one street in are plenty of local boutiques. You’ll find jewelry, home goods, and clothing stores all down the 15. It makes for a great stroll in the mid-morning if you’re looking to do a bit of shopping.

07. Snorkel or Scuba Dive

Just off-shore, you’ll find the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second largest coral reef, teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles and eels. Not a certified diver? No problem! Take an introductory resort course.

08. Visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Venture into this magical 1.3 million acre nature reserve home an astounding diversity of plants and wildlife. Options range from jungle boat tours to floating along ancient Maya canals.

09. Check Out Tulum Centro

Wander beyond the tourist zone to experience authentic local culture, cute boutiques and some of the best, inexpensive food in town. Don’t miss the popular breakfast spot Ki’bok Coffee or grabbing street tacos at Taco Bish.

10. Relax on the Beach

It wouldn’t be a proper trip to the Mexican Caribbean without plenty of hammock-swinging, sun-soaking, margarita-sipping full days spent lazily loafing along Tulum’s pristine white sand beaches.

11. Take a Day Trip to Cobá Ruins

Transport yourself back centuries wandering through the jungle-shrouded ruins of this ancient Maya city. Don’t miss climbing Nohuch Muul pyramid for awe-inspiring vistas across the Yucatán jungle canopy.

Tip: Coba is one of the only Ruins you are able to still climb up to the top. I recommend you go on a guided tour and bring tons of musquito repellent. 

12. Go on a Cenote Dive

For a truly bucket-list worthy experience, strap on scuba gear and plunge into the crystal clear underwater caves of cenotes like the world famous Dos Ojos or Gran Cenote for an unforgettable adventure.

13. Check Out a Beachfront Cabaña Hotel

Ditch mega-resorts for a stylish and sustainable stay at one of Tulum’s charming beachfront cabaña hotels like Ahau Tulum or Nomade Hotel. Fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping right outside your rustic-chic room.

14. Take a Cooking Class In Tulum

Learn traditional Yucatecan specialties like cochinita pibil (slow roasted pork), sikil pak (pumpkin seed dip), and more flavorful regional dishes during an immersive cooking class in Tulum. Some offer market tours and mezcal tastings too.

15. Dine along Tulum beach road

This scenic stretch brimming with resorts and beach clubs also offers outstanding upscale global dining options. Reservations are strongly recommended. Don’t miss boho-chic spots like Arca Restaurant and Casa Banana.

16. See all the amazing Tulum sculptures and  Tulum art installations

Tulum has become known for its bohemian and artistic vibe. As you explore, keep an eye out for colorful wall murals, whimsical sculptures, and thought-provoking installations. The art adds to the magic.

Some popular art installations and sculptures to check out in Tulum include:

• The Tulum Angel Wings: Giant rainbow angel wings perfect for photos near the Tulum ruins entrance
• “Ven a la Luz” Sculpture: Massive wooden sculpture of a woman in a mystical setting
• Art Garden at Yaan Wellness Energy Spa: Whimsical sculptures scattered throughout the tropical grounds
• Matcha Mama Chandelier: Psychedelic lighting installation made of vintage glassware
• Ziggy Beach Murals: Vibrant and colorful graffiti murals at this popular beach club

17. Take A day trip to Akumal To see and swim with the sea Turtles 

Take a colectivo or taxi to Akumal, a popular tourist destination, where you can literally walk into the water from shore and swim with giant sea turtles, eagle rays and countless fish. Be sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen!

18. Grab Gelato In Tulum

On hot days, stop by Delizia Tulum for handmade Italian-style gelato, sorbetto, and ice cream. Their unique tropical flavors like chaya, guanabana, and zapote are so refreshing. It’s located right on Tulum’s main drag.

19. Grab Some Smoothies At Matcha Mama

In addition to their epic chandelier, Matcha Mama is known for luxurious matcha-infused treats. Their lineup of superfood smoothies and bowls are the perfect healthy treat after a beach day. Don’t skip their lemonades either!

20. Go To A Music Festival At One Of The Clubs

Tulum’s mix of beach clubs, cocktail bars, and open-air venues host vibrant music festivals and parties year-round featuring both local and international DJs. Some popular annual events are the Art With Me Festival, Day Zero, and Zamna Festival – so check events listings during your stay!

21. Have a Sunset Experience at Azulik

For a truly unique atmosphere, head to the adults-only Azulik Tulum resort to experience their jungle treehouse bar Kin Toh. The design is breathtaking with a central hanging net canopy and swinging chairs, tables, and beds all integrated into the surrounding palm trees and lush vegetation. The innovative menu features fantastic cocktails made from Mexican spirits along with creative bar bites.

Stop by at golden hour to enjoy drinks against the stunning sunset overlooking the Caribbean Sea through the trees. Just note there is a dress code here requiring light linens and fabrics only. Kin Toh’s ambiance transports you into another world and it’s an absolute highlight when visiting Tulum.

Tip: Kin Toh As one of the most coveted and unique restaurants in Tulum, make reservations ahead of time. 

22. Snorkel & Swim with Whale Sharks in Tulum

during the months of June- September Whale sharks migrate through the warm carribean waters. This is the bucket list experience to see these magnificent creatures up close. This is a reputable tour I recommend. Make sure to book in advance and allow a few days after for rescheduling if needed for flexibility.

Where To Eat And Drink In Tulum

Tulum’s dining scene seamlessly fuses Mexican and international cuisine from chic beachfront eateries to humble taco stands. Savor mouthwatering local flavors in these areas:

Some incredible restaurants:

Posada Margherita

— Absolutely adored this spot on the beach for Italian food. The atmosphere here is great and the pasta/pizza is delicious.

Casa Jaguar

— Very rustic and refined, the seafood menu was incredible. Love the outdoor space and their cocktails are amazing.

Moro at Habitas

— Another restaurant in Tulum we ate at a few times since it was at our hotel. Dinner was delicious and loved their breakfast too.

Maresias at Be Tulum

— We ate here several times for breakfast/lunch while staying on property. The food is rather good, cocktails are great. If you’re at the hotel, you can order food from the amazing beach.

Macondo at Nomade

— Come for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The breakfast is really good with tons of classics and healthy choices. Lunch at their beach club is also delicious.

We ordered a smoothie and tacos

RosaNegra

— Great Latin American food with a lot of influence from South America.

The Kitchen Table

— One more spot I wish we could have had reservations for was this. I love the concept of locally sourced ingredients from the Yucatan Peninsula and cooked over the fire.

Tulum Centro

For cheap, authentic eats, head to the town center where you’ll find tasty taco joints and hole-in-the-wall restaurants on every corner. Look for regional dishes like panuchos, salbutes, cochinita pibil or seafood.

Beach Road

This scenic stretch brimming with resorts and beach clubs also offers outstanding upscale global dining options. Reservations are strongly recommended. Don’t miss boho-chic spots like Arca Restaurant and Casa Banana.

5th Avenue + Juarez

Just a few streets inland from the beach road, this area holds numerous mid-range international eateries. It’s also ground zero for Tulum’s trendiest bars and nightlife spots.

Helpful tip: Wherever you dine or drink, don’t forget to ask “¿La propina está incluida?” (Is the tip included?) before paying since many add it to the bill automatically.

RELATED: How To Get To Tulum

How to get Around in Tulum Quintana roo 

Tulum is very spread out so transportation is key for getting around. Here are your main options:

• Taxi: Convenient but prices are high for foreigners and they cannot be flagged down on the street. Better to call one instead.
• Colectivos: These shared minivan shuttles offer a cheaper way to travel set routes around Tulum and neighboring towns/cities.
• Bicycle: Biking is the most popular way to explore Tulum. There are bike paths connecting Tulum Town to the Hotel Zone. Rentals cost ~$10-15 USD per day.
• Scooter: Scooters offer more freedom to venture beyond central Tulum. Rentals start at ~$25 USD per day.
• Rental Car: Best for maximum flexibility but roads are notoriously poorly marked and full of potholes. Rates from $30+ USD per day.

RENT A CAR: Reserve a rental car in Advance from Discover Cars

Helpful transportation tip: Always negotiate taxi prices before getting in, have some cash on hand for colectivos, and check road conditions if renting a car or scooter.

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Exciting Tulum Day Tours and Nearby Tulum what to see

Looking to spice up your Tulum trip with some tours and activities? Here are top-rated excursions to consider booking:

• Swim in 3 Cenotes & Visit Tulum Ruins
• All-Inclusive Sian Ka’an Boat Tour
• Scuba Diving or Freediving
• Xel-ha Water Park with Transportation
• Chichen Itza + Cenote + Valladolid Day Trip
• Whale Shark Snorkeling Expedition
• Xoximilco Floating Fiesta Extravaganza
• Professional Photo Shoot Around Tulum

Helpful booking tip: I highly recommend reserving tours/activities online in advance whenever possible to lock in dates/pricing and avoid issues with availability during peak visiting times.

What To Pack for Tulum mexico

Don’t sweat packing for your dream Tulum vacation. Here are must-have items:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory in some spots)
• Biodegradable bug spray
• Bathing suits – lots!
• Beach cover up & hat
• Sandals/water shoes – no heels on uneven streets
• Light, loose clothing – it gets hot!
• Cash in pesos – smaller vendors may not accept USD/cards

Also nice to have: portable charger, dry bag, collapsible water bottle, travel towels, hiking shoes.

RELATED: Best Cenotes in Tulum

Tulum Travel Tips & Things to Know Travel guide to tulum

Get Cash Pesos

 Many smaller shops, restaurants, and attractions in Tulum still only accept cash, so make sure to carry Mexican Pesos. There are ATMs in Tulum Town you can use.

Negotiate Taxi Rates

Always agree on a rate before getting into taxis as there are no meters. Taxis can’t be hailed so ask your hotel to arrange one. Rates between Tulum Town and the Hotel Zone should be $100-150 pesos.

Is the Drinking Water Safe in Tulum?

It’s recommended to drink only bottled water while visiting Tulum. Tap water is typically not potable, so check with your hotel if it is filtered and safe for brushing teeth as well. To reduce plastic waste, bring a reusable water bottle you can easily refill from larger jugs. If you don’t want to buy endless bottles, a good alternative is portable water filters like Lifestraw that work well and allow you to stay hydrated.

Don’t Forget Mosquito Repellent and Prevention

The humid tropical climate of Tulum means plenty of mosquitos, especially in the evenings. Packing insect repellent spray containing DEET or picaridin is highly recommended to prevent mosquito bites and potential diseases they transmit like Zika, Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and Malaria. Reapply repellent frequently and cover up with lightweight pants/shirts outdoors. Also check that your lodgings have air conditioning, window screens and mosquito netting around beds. Ask your doctor about preventative medication if traveling in rainy season.

Wake Up Early

Get out exploring in the mornings before the midday heat and crowds hit. It’s cooler and less busy at most attractions first thing in the morning.

Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

 When swimming in cenotes, lagoons, and the ocean, only use sunscreens that are biodegradable and reef-safe to protect those ecosystems.

Go Off The Beaten Path

 It’s easy to only see the touristy areas in Tulum. For a more authentic experience, head into neighborhoods like La Veleta and Aldea Zama.

See Wildlife Ethically

 Swim with sea turtles in Akumal Bay, but don’t touch, chase or stand on coral which can harm them. Avoid dolphin encounters, swims with whalesharks, or other wildlife interactions that exploit animals.

Get Travel Insurance

I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers illness, injuries, theft, cancellations, and other unexpected mishaps. For Tulum, hurricane season is also a risk worth insuring if you’re visiting between August-October. Some top providers is SafetyWing.

Tulum Currency

The currency used in Tulum is the Mexican Peso. Some resorts, hotels and tour companies may list pricing in US Dollars but you’ll need pesos for spending around town. Be sure to check current exchange rates before your trip. Many larger restaurants and shops accept credit cards but always good to have some cash on hand.

Book Nonstop Flights if Possible

Flying into Cancun International Airport is most common when visiting Tulum. It’s serviced by all major US airlines and flight search sites like Skyscanner are great for finding affordable fares. If available, try booking direct nonstop routes which are quicker and have less risk of delays/cancellations. American, Delta, United and Alaska Airlines all offer frequent nonstop service to Cancun from the United States. You can also set fare alerts to snag deals.

Is Tulum Safe? Travel Safety Tips

The good news is – YES! Tulum is very safe…if you use sound judgment. Petty theft (mostly phones/bags left unattended) does happen on beaches sometimes. Violent crime is extremely rare but scams are common. Follow these tips and you’ll avoid 99% of risks:

• Don’t flash expensive cameras/jewelry
• Don’t physically resist muggers if encountered
• Avoid wandering alone intoxicated
• Don’t visit ruins/beaches alone at night
• Only take taxis arranged by your hotel
• Don’t buy drugs or go to drug/full moon parties
• Say NO to people peddling things on the street
• Drink sealed water/beverages only
• Get travel insurance covering illness, accidents, canceled trips, lost luggage and more

Taking basic precautions allows you to focus on enjoying paradise instead of worrying

RELATED: How To Get To Tulum

Budgeting For Tulum Mexico

With boutique hotels, boho-chic cuisine and trendy spa treatments, Tulum can get quite expensive. But you can still indulge on a budget with some planning! Here are average costs per day:

Accommodation

• Hostel dorm bed: $15-25
• Standard hotel room: $50-100
• Luxury beachfront resort: $300+

Food

• Street food/budget meal: $5-10
• Casual restaurant meal: $15-25
• Upscale restaurant with drinks: $50+

Transportation

• Bike/scooter rental: $15-25
• Short taxi ride: $5-10
• Colectivo ride: <$5

Activities

• Public beach access: Free
• Major ruins site entry: $5-15
• Beach club day pass: $25-100+
• Diving/tours: $50-150+

So you can comfortably enjoy Tulum’s beauty for $100 or less per day up to $500+ per day for a luxury experience.

Helpful budgeting tip: Cut costs by opting for budget stays in town, street food over restaurants, and not overdoing activities requiring paid admission.

Final Thoughts On Visiting Tulum

I hope this guide got you fully prepped and pumped for the amazing adventures awaiting you in Tulum! It’s truly a magical destination with something special to offer every traveler whether you’re a backpacker, family, couple, foodie or lux traveler.

By planning your perfect stay armed with these insider travel tips, you’re guaranteed to return home with incredible memories that will have you longing to return to gorgeous Tulum again soon