Tulum Travel Guide: Best Hotels, Restaurants and Things To Do

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Advisor - Sheridan Smith
Curated By

Sheridan Smith

  • Tulum

  • Beaches

  • Nature Escapes

  • Boutique Travel

  • Wellness Travel

  • Relaxation

  • Romantic

  • Hotel Guide

A view of the sea next to the beach with a palm tree in view during the daytime
Curator’s statement

Relax and unwind on the white-sand beaches of Tulum with a margarita in hand. This laid-back beach town is known for its Mayan culture and the natural beauty of its beaches, jungles and cenotes. You will find some of the most beautifully designed boutique hotels and absolutely incredible food here.

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Where to stay in Tulum

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Things to do in Tulum

A body of water in a cave-like structure

Beach clubs: Tulum has so many great beach clubs to choose from depending on the vibe you want. My favorite thing to do is spend the day relaxing on the beach at Nomade with a margarita.

Spa day: Enjoy a spa treatment at Yäan Healing Sanctuary. It’s tucked away in the jungle and has the most relaxing atmosphere.

Cenotes: Swimming in these natural swimming holes is absolutely magical. Most of the world’s cenotes are in this region, so you don’t want to skip this!

Tulum Rrins: The Mayan Ruins in Tulum are built on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean. Definitely worth a visit for history lovers.

Shopping: Get an iced coffee at Matcha Mama and browse the beautiful boutiques along the Tulum Beach road.

Downtown Tulum: Head into downtown Tulum for authentic, affordable food and a more local vibe.

Yoga: Tulum is known for its spiritual & wellness activities. Taking a yoga class on the beach or in the jungle is the perfect way to get your workout in on this trip.

Boat tour: Take a boat tour of the Sian Ka’an Natural Reserve Biosphere, an Unesco World Heritage Site that is home to dolphins, manatees, spider monkeys, turtles and so much more.

Muyil Channels: You can spend the day floating down the Muyil Channels letting the current lead you as it is a natural lazy river.

Advisor - Sheridan Smith

A note from Sheridan

Day trips from Tulum:

Isla Mujeres: Isla Mujeres (“Island of Women” in English) is a 5-mile-long island off the coast of Cancun known for its laid back, local vibe and gorgeous beaches.
Akumal: A small town about 30 minutes away from Tulum near the second largest reef in the world. Akumal is the perfect place for snorkeling, scuba diving, and seeing giant sea turtles.
Chichen Itza: Chichen Itza is a sacred Mayan archaeological site and named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World by UNESCO.

Places to eat & drink in Tulum

Traditional food served on plates on a wooden table

Gitano: The Jungle Bar location is my favorite. The food is amazing, but this is also a great place to grab cocktails before or after dinner.

Kin Toh at Azulik: Make a reservation here for a unique experience and incredible seafood. You can reserve one of their “nests” which are private tables above the trees with the perfect sunset view.

Hartwood: Laid back ambience, great cocktails, and a new menu daily.

Matcha Mama: Grab a matcha and acai bowl at this Instagrammable tropical spot.

Arca: Arca is my top pick for a romantic dinner. You eat outside in the jungle by candlelight, and the food is so unique and delicious.

Rosa Negra: The service is fantastic at this beautiful steakhouse in Tulum Beach. It has such a fun vibe for dinner and drinks.

Posada Margherita: If you get tired of tacos, head over to Posada Margherita for an authentic Italian lunch overlooking the beach.

La Popular: Nomade’s beach restaurant is on the beach and has the best casual Mexican food. You must try the guacamole and their margaritas.

Advisor - Sheridan Smith

Travel Advisor

Sheridan Smith

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Tulum. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Melissa Potter's guide, The Perfect 7 Day Boutique Escape in Tulum.