Curator’s statement
I love Tulum for its perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history and laid-back vibes. Exploring cenotes like Cenote Atik in the Riviera Maya feels like stepping into another world with crystal-clear waters, mystical caves and the serenity of being surrounded by nature. There's something magical about swimming in these ancient sinkholes, knowing they were sacred to the Mayans. It’s the ultimate escape, where adventure and tranquility come together in the most breathtaking way.
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Things to do in Mexico
Tulum is a dream destination with a mix of adventure, culture and relaxation. Here are some of my favorite things to do:
Swim in Cenote Atik: A hidden gem, Cenote Atik offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful jungle setting, perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkeling.
Explore Gran Cenote: One of the most famous cenotes near Tulum, Gran Cenote is known for its turquoise waters, underwater rock formations and snorkeling-friendly caves.
Visit Cenote Calavera: Also called the "Temple of Doom," this cenote features small openings in the ground, making for a fun jump-in experience and an eerie yet beautiful swim.
Wander Through Tulum Pueblo (Downtown Tulum): Tulum’s downtown area is full of local shops, authentic taco stands and vibrant nightlife. It’s the perfect spot to experience the town’s bohemian charm and delicious food.
Explore the Tulum Ruins: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, these ancient Mayan ruins offer stunning views and a glimpse into the region’s history.
Adventure at Xplor Park: For thrill-seekers, Xplor Park offers zip-lining over the jungle, driving amphibious vehicles through caves and swimming in underground rivers.
Take a Boat & Snorkeling Trip to Cozumel: A short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is home to some of the world’s best coral reefs. Snorkeling or diving here offers vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.
Day Trip to Isla Mujeres: Known for its stunning beaches and relaxed island vibe. Isla Mujeres is perfect for snorkeling, exploring by golf cart and visiting Playa Norte, one of the best beaches in Mexico.
Relax on Tulum’s Beaches: With powdery white sand and turquoise waters, Tulum’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Beach clubs like Papaya Playa Project and Nomade offer great food and cocktails with ocean views.
Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this protected area is home to incredible wildlife, mangroves and hidden lagoons. You can take a boat tour to spot dolphins, turtles and even Mayan ruins deep in the jungle.
Places to eat & drink in Mexico
Jungle dining at its finest! Perfectly grilled carne asada, smoky roasted peppers and spiced baby potatoes at Gitano Beach Club
Tulum is a foodie paradise with everything from authentic street tacos to high-end dining experiences. Here are 10 of the best places to eat, mixing local favorites with upscale spots:
High-end restaurants:
Gitano: A chic jungle restaurant known for its modern Mexican cuisine, mezcal cocktails and stylish ambiance with live music and fire pits.
Ilios: A stunning Greek restaurant offering Mediterranean flavors, theatrical presentations and an elegant setting with vibrant nightlife energy.
Arca: A top-tier dining experience featuring creative, wood-fired dishes using local ingredients in a beautifully designed open-air setting.
Hartwood: One of Tulum’s most famous restaurants, serving fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and meat cooked over an open flame.
Rosa Negra: A lively Latin American-inspired restaurant known for its flavorful dishes, energetic atmosphere and extravagant presentations.
Local & authentic spots:
Taquería La Eufemia: A laid-back beachfront taco spot with delicious fish tacos, affordable prices and a fun, bohemian vibe.
Antojitos La Chiapaneca: One of the best places in town for authentic Yucatán-style tacos al pastor, served fresh off the trompo.
El Camello Jr.: A must-visit for fresh seafood, this casual spot is famous for its ceviche, grilled octopus and generous portions.
Burrito Amor: A local favorite for fresh, flavorful burritos made with organic ingredients and wrapped in banana leaves for extra flavor.
Campanella Cremerie: A hidden gem for coffee, gelato and delicious breakfast items, perfect for a morning treat before exploring.
Need to know
Tulum is an incredible destination, but first-time visitors should know a few key tips to make their trip smooth and unforgettable. Here are 10 essential travel tips:
Getting to Tulum from Cancun Airport: Tulum doesn’t have its own airport yet, so you'll need to fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN). From there, you can take a private transfer (fastest & most comfortable), ADO bus (budget-friendly), or rent a car if you plan on exploring beyond Tulum. The drive is about 1.5–2 hours.
Choose your stay wisely, beach vs. downtown: The beach zone (hotel zone) has luxury hotels, beach clubs and stunning ocean views but is pricier. Downtown Tulum (Tulum Pueblo) is more affordable, offers great local restaurants and is closer to cenotes but requires transport to the beach.
Rent a bike or scooter: Tulum is spread out, and taxis are expensive. Biking is the best way to explore the town, beach and cenotes at your own pace. Scooters and golf carts are also fun alternatives.
Bring cash (Pesos preferred): Many places, including taxis and local shops, prefer cash over cards, and ATMs can run out of money. Bring Mexican pesos to avoid bad exchange rates.
Plan for limited Wi-Fi & cell service: Wi-Fi can be spotty, especially at beach hotels. Download Google Maps offline and save key info before arriving.
Visit cenotes early: Popular cenotes like Gran Cenote, Cenote Atik and Cenote Calavera get crowded. Arrive early (8–9 am) to enjoy them without the crowds.
Experience Tulum’s food scene: Try high-end spots like Gitano and Ilios, but don’t skip local gems like Antojitos La Chiapaneca for tacos al pastor and El Camello Jr. for fresh seafood.
Pack light & eco-friendly essentials: Tulum is all about sustainability — bring reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray, a reusable water bottle and light, breathable clothing for the heat.
Explore beyond Tulum: Take a day trip to Cozumel for snorkeling, Isla Mujeres for beaches or Xplor Park for adventure. Also, don’t miss the Tulum Ruins overlooking the ocean.
Be mindful of the Sargassum Season: Tulum’s beaches sometimes get seaweed (sargassum), especially from April to October. Check conditions before your trip, and have backup plans like cenote swimming or visiting nearby lagoons.
Travel Advisor
Melissa Pacheco
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