Curator’s statement
Tulum International Airport is now open for international flights, with direct flights from Newark taking just over four hours. I visited the once-sleepy resort town of Tulum approximately 25 years ago. The new flight option seemed like a great opportunity to revisit this popular Riviera Maya destination. Known for beautiful beaches on the Caribbean coast, incredible ruins, mangroves, cenotes, beach clubs and great food, Tulum has something for all kinds of visitors. Couples, families, honeymooners, large groups or those just looking for a quick getaway and the feel of sand between their toes. Visitors can enjoy destination restaurants with other vacationers, sip a cold beer and tuna tostadas with locals. You can dance into the night, indulge at an all-inclusive resort, celebrate a milestone event, explore ancient ruins or find sanctuary and focus on wellbeing at a retreat. If looking for a more authentic Mexican experience, downtown is where to stay. If you aspire to the international Bohemian "Gypset", something in the Hotel Zone will be more to your taste.
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Things to do in Tulum
Approximately 2.5 hours drive, Chichen Itza is a must. With over 2 million visitors a year, this UNESCO world heritage site can get crowded, so book a tour guide and go early.
The Tulum Archeological Zone is centuries old and is one of the few Mayan cities built directly on the ocean. It was a hub for international trade and thought to be a religious center. A must visit for any visitor.
Visit the beautiful and charming colonial town of Valladolid, established in 1543. Enjoy an ice cream in the town's main square, Parque Principal Francisco Canton Rosado and then visit the Iglesia de San Servacio, originally built in 1545. Finish at Mercardo de Valladolid with a freshly squeezed fruit juice and an empanada.
There are over 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula. The more inland, the deeper the caverns. The Mayans believed these freshwater sinkholes provided access to the underworld. Modern-day visitors will enjoy a refreshing place to swim out of the heat of the sun. Wander and explore Tulum Pueblo and discover a more authentic Mexico. Enjoy the market, vintage shops, music, street art and local party vibe. In my experience it was welcoming and safe but like any crowded area be vigilant, stay in heavy traffic areas after dark.
Places to eat & drink in Tulum
Arca Tulum - Voted one of Latin America's 50 best restaurants and one of North America's 50 best bars. It did not disappoint. Delicious, from the Dzikilpak through to the coconut ice cream.
Cueva del Pescador, Akumal - Simple, fresh and honest fish tacos next to the beach. The patron organizes fishing trips.
Babel Cafe - Great coffee and baked goods in downtown Tulum.
Staying Out Late in the Hotel Zone:
Gitano Jungle Tulum — Food and service are average. Prices are high. Go for the party.
Rosa Negra - A fiery and exuberant Latin American-flavored evening.
Staying Out Late Downtown:
Something is happening most nights, so take a wander between Avenida Tulum, Calle Beta Sur and Calle Satelite Sur to find a venue that suits your taste.
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Travel Advisor
Clare Risman
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Tulum. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Samar Asfour’s guide, Adventure in Tulum, Mexico.