Every moment here is a new adventure, whether spending a day on the beach, snapping cool pictures in the jungle, or cooling off in hidden cenotes. Discover all the best things to do in Tulum, Mexico.
Tip: Though many people speak English in Tulum, it’s good to learn a few words in Spanish. Knowing how to greet people, order food and drinks, or ask for directions goes a long way!
1. Take a Stroll in Tulum Town
Tulum is split up into two different areas: downtown and the Hotel Zone. The center makes the perfect place to go boutique shopping, find cool souvenirs, or go on the hunt for some delicious tacos. It’s also the area where you’ll find cheaper hotels in Tulum and where most locals live, offering a glimpse into their daily lives.
Stroll through the main street, lined with cute shops, vibrant taquerias, and bars. Turn into the side alleys to discover beautiful murals and busy cafes.
Don’t forget to check out the iconic alleys known for street food. Here, you’ll find many food stalls perched on the sides of the road, selling everything from refreshing smoothies to delicious fish tacos (even vegan!). You’ll find some of the best on Calle Gemenis Sur and Avenida Satelite. Join the local food tour or vegan food tour in Tulum.
Tip: It’s best to visit the town in the morning or late afternoon, as midday hours get incredibly hot, and you’ll find little shade. It’s also common for shops to close down during this time.
2. Visit the Tulum Ruins
One of the highlights and best things to do in Tulum is visit the town’s famous archeological zone. Situated on the bluffs of the Caribbean Sea, this site was once one of the many great Mayan cities. Explore the narrow pathways through the jungle, admire the well-preserved temples and stone walls, and look out onto a neverending turquoise sea.
The Tulum pyramids in Mexico are believed to be over 800 years old. They date back to a time when the Maya civilization flourished and when Tulum, the only city on the coast, was an important trading hub. El Castillo (the castle) is the main pyramid, perched high on the cliffs facing the ocean.
Entrance to the Tulum Ruins
The entrance to the ruins is slightly confusing, as no signs point you to the ticket office. You’ll find the ticket office here. From there, it’s a short 800m walk to the actual ruins on the shore.
The ticket includes two different fees: one for the national reserve (58 MXN/3.40 USD) and one for the ruins (90 MXN/5.25 USD). Many people might try to sell you tickets beforehand, but these aren’t always valid.
Tour the Tulum pyramids on your own or hire a guide to tell you about the ruins’ history, people, and culture. Remember that this is the most-visited spot in Quintana Roo, so prepare for crowds. (Or book your tour here)
Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. The zone has little shade, and you won’t find any vendors selling food or drinks inside.
3. Cool Down at a Cenote
Besides the turquoise Caribbean Sea and various lagoons, Tulum offers another natural place to cool off: cenotes. These sinkholes are created when limestone collapses, exposing the groundwater the ancient Maya used for water and sacrificial offerings.
Swimming in a cenote is one of the best things to do in Tulum. Here are some of our favorites:
Gran Cenote
By far, the most popular cenote in Tulum, Mexico, is the Gran Cenote. Due to its fame, it’s also the most visited and expensive cenote you’ll find in the region, with an entrance fee of 500 MXN (29.20 USD). However, with various boardwalks, lush nature, and different caves, it’s the perfect spot to unwind or go freediving. The Gran Cenote is open from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso
Located 15 minutes from Tulum Center lies the beautiful Cenote Corazon del Paraiso. This large open cenote is surrounded by lush shrubs and trees and offers a great spot to cool off. The water is incredibly clear and even has some turtles, so make sure to bring your snorkel and go-pro! (Join this cenotes tour)
If you don’t have a snorkel, you can rent one for 50 MXN (3 USD). This peaceful cenote is the perfect spot to escape the busy crowds, though we do recommend coming early.
Opening times & Entrance Fee: 9 AM – 4.30 PM, and 200 MXN (11.70 USD). However, since it’s privately owned, the cenote sometimes opens later.
Cenote Cristal & Cenote Escondido
These two cenotes, only meters away from one another, are another great option. Right next to the main highway that leads to Chetumal, you can visit one or both of the sinkholes. Start off with the popular Cenote Cristal (Naharon) to soak up the atmosphere before larger crowds arrive, and make your way to Cenote Escondido after. You can purchase tickets at each of the cenotes or get tickets for both at Cenote Cristal. (Join this cenotes tour)
Looking for more cenotes around Tulum, Mexico? Visit Cenote Calavera, Cenote Carwash, and Cenote Zacil-ha.
4. Visit Zona Archeologica de Muyil
Just 20 minutes outside of Tulum, you’ll find the lesser-known Muyil ruins, one of the most important Mayan remnants within the Sian Ka’an biosphere. Though it lies a little off-the-beaten path, its surrounding nature makes it one of the more unique Tulum things to do. (Book your tour here)
From there, continue into the reserve, following a 500-meter-long boardwalk trail through the jungles and wetlands (don’t forget your non-toxic bug spray!). Listen to the sounds of the forest, full of birds, frogs, and howler monkeys, while you pass thousands of different plant species. Eventually, you make it to the Muyil Lagoon, where you have the option to join a boat tour.
Tickets: Entrance to the Archeological zone of Muyil is 70 MXN (4.10 USD). Once you enter the path (Sendero) to the lagoon, you’ll need to pay an extra 50 MXN (2.90 USD). The boat tours out onto the two lagoons of Muyil cost about 1000 MXN (58 USD). Expect to spend about 2 hours doing all three activities.
5. Swim at Laguna de Kaan Luum
Another part of Sian Ka’an worth exploring is Laguna de Kaan Luum, a huge open cenote and popular swimming spot near Tulum, Mexico. It’s a busy spot on the weekends, with many locals coming to relax after a long work week. Soak up the sun while you lazily hang in a hammock above the vibrantly blue water, sipping on a fresh coconut – the Sian Ka’an lagoon is a must-see! (Book a tour including Sian Ka’an and Muyil)
Tip: You can easily get to Kaan Luum by car, scooter, bike, or colectivo, as it lies only 5 kilometers from downtown Tulum.
Though the deep part of the lagoon is off-limits, you can rent a SUP or kayak (120 MXN) to paddle out on the shallow waters. Note: Due to the harsh chemicals in many sunscreens and bug sprays, you’re not allowed to wear them in the reserve (and many other places in Mexico). Instead, choose a non-toxic bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen
Opening Times & Entrance Fee: The Laguna is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM and costs 200 MXN (11.65 USD) to enter (cash only). It’s an additional 150 MXN to fly a drone. We recommend getting there as early as possible to avoid bigger crowds.
6. Relax at Tulum Beach
Tulum Beach, with its enchanting blue waters and powdery white sands, is a slice of paradise and one of the main reasons people visit the Caribbean boho town. As you step out onto the beach, you’re immediately enveloped in a serene world where the sea gently laps onto shore.
Also discover Mexico’s Blue Lagoon: Bacalar
It’s lined back-to-back with eco-chic resorts and buzzing beach clubs, offering a unique experience for everyone. The beach is easiest to visit if you’re staying at one of these resorts, but you can also go there if you don’t.
If you’re not staying in the Hotel Zone, the beach resorts also offer day passes that include a towel and chair. However, you’ll have to pay for parking and entry to access the beach through one of these resorts. Alternatively, you’ll find a free public beach here.
Tulum Jungle Gym
Looking for a workout between relaxing and adventuring? On Tulum Beach, you’ll find the area’s very own Jungle Gym spread out in the sand, with wooden weights and machines. Make sure to bring plenty of water, as working out in the tropical heat can be exhausting.
Also read: Best Things To Do in Valladolid, Mexico.
If you stay at one of the Ahau Tulum hotels (Alaya, Villa Pescadores, Casa Ganesh, or Kanan), you’ll have free access to the gym. Otherwise, it’s 600 MXN (35 USD) for a single entry or 2400 MXN (140.50 USD) for a weekly pass.
Opening Times: The gym is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Between 8 AM and 9 AM, you can reserve the whole gym for a private session.
7. Take a Photo at the Ven a la Luz Sculpture
Capturing a moment at the iconic Ven a la Luz sculpture in Tulum makes the perfect picture for your Instagram. This towering wooden sculpture, cradled in the lush embrace of the town’s tropical landscape, is one of the best things to do in Tulum. As you approach it, you’ll notice its grand size and intricate details, which depict a woman emerging from the earth, making a stunning backdrop.
Many visitors come here to snap a photo, so make sure to come early, as you’ll have to stand in line. Once it’s your turn, you have one minute to snap some pictures, so have your camera settings ready. It costs 80 MXN (4.70 USD) to enter.
Tip: It’s worth getting a Telcel SIM card and plan. There are several stores downtown that sell SIM cards, which cost only 80 MXN. Unlimited data for your social media apps and 5GB for browsing costs 200 MXN (12 USD). You can also purchase an eSIM online.
8. Visit Playa Paraiso
Playa Paraiso in Tulum, a name that literally translates to ‘Paradise Beach’, truly lives up to its name. This tranquil area (Tulum’s quietest beach) feels as if it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle, with beautiful water and soft, white sands. Watch how palm trees sway gently in the breeze, making the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and sunbathing.
The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Along the beach, you’ll find quaint thatched-roof cabanas; a cozy spot to unwind and take in the stunning views.
Tip: If you want to enter the national reserve behind the beach, you’ll have to pay 58 MXN (3.40 USD). From there, you can enter the Tulum ruins as well; just show them your bracelet to prove you’ve paid.
9. Go Boutique Shopping
Boutique shopping in Tulum is an adventure in itself, especially in the heart of town. Wander along the bustling streets, every turn leading you to new charming boutiques with fun treasures. From handcrafted goods like intricately designed textiles, unique ornaments, and Mexican liquors to fashionable beachwear, each store offers something different.
10. Explore the Sian Kaan Reserve
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area on the Caribbean coast in Mexico, spanning over 1.3 million acres and home to many animal species and stunning landscapes. From jungle marshes and mangroves to large cenotes and incredibly blue lagoons, this protected UNESCO site offers a refreshing addition to Tulum’s all-inclusive hotels and party atmosphere.
Made up of different ecosystems, Sian Ka’an (‘where the sky is born’ in Yucatec Maya) is one of the most biodiverse places in the world. In between, you’ll spot a myriad of wild animals, from pelicans to turtles, manatees, howler monkeys, and even crocodiles.
Remember: Always take your garbage with you and leave areas better than you found them. Unfortunately, many beaches are littered with plastic, harming the environment.
Ancient Maya people inhabited the biosphere for over 1200 years, where they built waterways to get out to the sea. Now, most of the reserve is off-limits, with only a small section reserved for sustainable and low-impact ecotourism. This makes it one of the most interesting things to do in Tulum and on the Riviera Maya.
How to Get to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
To explore Sian Ka’an, you have to go down a long dirt road from Tulum’s Hotel Zone. Though time-consuming (2-3 hours), the journey is absolutely worth it, with the road wedged between the sea and the bright lagoons. Entrance to the reserve costs 37MXN (2.15 USD), and it closes at 6 PM.
If you go solo, it’s best to rent a car in Tulum and drive slowly, as there are many holes in the road. Make sure you have a full tank of gas, as you’ll find no gas stations once you enter the reserve. Note: ATVs are not allowed.
We recommend to rent a car in Mexico through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
You can also visit the biosphere reserve with a guide (book your tour here) and include other activities like birdwatching, kayaking through the lagoons, visiting Maya ruins, swimming in ancient canals, or snorkeling. Expect to pay about 85 – 165 USD per person for a half-day trip from Tulum.
Alternatively, you can enter the reserve by visiting the Muyil Ruins first and walking 500 meters through the tropical forest. Frequent buses go here from Tulum Centro, and entrance costs 120 MXN (7 USD). Once you reach the lagoon, you can pay for a guided boat tour (1000 MXN/58 USD). These tours are offered between 8 AM and 4 PM daily and last about 2,5 hours.
Some of our favorite restaurants in Tulum are:
- Taqueria La Chiapaneca
- Rossina Cafe
- Burrito Amor (fresh)
- Sabor de Mar
- Tacos y Tortas El Tío (food stand)
- Orchid House Tulum
- Matcha Mama
- El Rincon Chiampaneco (local)
- Bowls de Guadalupe
- Raw Love Cafe (smoothie bowls)
Did you know? ‘Antojitos’ are small plates of food, including tacos and lots of other street food.
Where to Stay in Tulum
As Tulum grows, new accommodations pop up everywhere. However, the most popular area to stay in is the Hotel Zone along the coastline. Prices are a bit higher here, but hotels and resorts include many amenities and have direct access to the stunning beach.
How Many Days in Tulum, Mexico?
To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Tulum and the town’s surroundings, it’s recommended to stay at least 4 – 5 days. During this time, you can relax on white sand beaches, dive into the many restaurants, explore hidden cenotes and ancient ruins, and visit the UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Generally, the cheapest way to get around the Yucatan Peninsula is to take the ADO buses. Though local minivans (colectivo) are also an option, they take much longer due to the many stops in between. They’re also known to refuse tourists with luggage. There’s also the option to taxi (though expect a large bill) or rent a car and drive yourself.
We recommend to rent a car in Mexico through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Getting Around Tulum
Most of the things to do in Tulum are relatively close to one another, making it very easy to get around. Rent a car, motorbike, or ATV, and zoom across the beach roads to hidden cenotes and stunning lagoons.
Tip: Many roads in Tulum are dirt roads, so make sure you have something to protect your eyes while driving a scooter, motorbike, or ATV.
Taxi & Colectivo
Taxis have authority in Tulum, meaning prices are much higher, and it’s more difficult for visitors to get around by hopping on a local colectivo. Expect to pay between 500 – 750 MXN (29 – 44 USD) for a 15-minute taxi ride between Tulum Centro and the Hotel Zone. However, if you stay persistent with the Colectivo drivers, you should be able to hop on.
Car & Motorbike
You can easily travel between the Hotel Zone and downtown if you have a car or motorbike. In the Hotel Zone, you can park for 200 MXN (12 USD) a day and either relax at a beach club or visit the public beach. Keep in mind that you can’t park your motorcycle on the main road of the hotel area, as it’s very narrow and busy.
We recommend to rent a car in Mexico through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
By Bicycle
Another fun way to get around is to rent a bicycle. It takes about 30 minutes from Tulum Center to cycle down to the Hotel Zone and the beaches. Once you get to the coastal roads, make sure you wear sunglasses, as sand often flies up when cars pass by.
Travel Insurance
Don't forget a travel insurance for your Mexico trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here
How Much Does Tulum Cost?
A vacation in Tulum can be budget-friendly or as luxurious as you like. If you’re backpacking through the Yucatan Peninsula, choose buzzing hostels downtown and local restaurants or food stands. Alternatively, if you’ve got a bit more money to spend, you’ll find high-end resorts on the coast and exclusive activities.
Note: Tipping is common in Mexico. Sometimes, this fee is already included in the bill, so make sure to always double-check before paying.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tulum is during the shoulder seasons (May – October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, resulting in more affordable accommodations and activities.
However, early winter (January – February) is also a good time to visit if you prefer cooler and drier weather. There is less humidity and fewer mosquitoes during this time, as well as smaller crowds compared to the peak season (spring and summer).
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