What to do in Tulum: 8 must-have experiences

Tulum, with its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage, is one of the most enchanting destinations in Mexico. Known for its seaside Mayan ruins and vibrant atmosphere, Tulum offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation. If you’re looking for what to do in Tulum, this post is for you.

We decided to explore Tulum to discover its natural beauty, savor authentic flavors, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant local culture. We visited Tulum after our trip to Oaxaca and before heading to Chetumal on our way to Belize during our second trip around the world. According to official data from the state of Quintana Roo, more than 2 million tourists are expected in Tulum in 2024, making it a highly sought-after destination.

There are various ways to visit Tulum. Many people choose a resort and take a few tours, but end up with a more confined experience. This time, we opted to stay in a hotel in downtown Tulum, rent a scooter, and explore on our own to create this list of what to do in Tulum.

Why We Decided to Visit Tulum

We chose Tulum for its reputation as a tranquil beach destination with much more to offer. On our list of things to do in Tulum were exploring its historical ruins, sampling the local cuisine, and, of course, enjoying the beaches. Tulum has many tourist activities, but we preferred to explore off the beaten path. The region’s attractions include cenotes, but we found the prices high and aren’t huge fans. However, we recommend the experience if you’ve never visited one.

How We Arrived and Departed from Tulum

The most common way to visit Tulum is through Cancún airport. In 2024, the new Tulum airport opened. We planned our flight from Oaxaca to Cancún as direct flights were not yet available. Cancún airport is about 120 km from Tulum. We opted to take an ADO bus, which took about 2 hours to reach Tulum. To leave Tulum, we also took an ADO bus to Chetumal, where we caught the boat to Caye Caulker, Belize.

Where to Stay in Tulum

• Hotel Zone: If you want to be close to the beach and the best restaurants, the hotel zone is the ideal place. Boutique hotels, eco-resorts, and beach huts are the main options.
• Downtown Tulum: For a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, stay in downtown. We stayed in a studio called Tuk Tulum, which is a bit away from the busy area but is convenient and offers great value for money.
• Aldea Zama: A modern and quiet residential area, Aldea Zama is perfect for those seeking a more private and relaxing stay.

What to Do in Tulum

Visit the Mayan Ruins – Tancah Archaeological Zone

We explored the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The Temple of the Descending God is a must-see. Admission costs 95 pesos, and you can explore independently or hire a guide or tour for an additional fee. The beach within the ruins was closed due to staircase damage. Besides the 95 pesos for the ruins, you need to pay the 60 pesos conservation fee at the Jaguar Park entrance. The entrance to the ruins is about a 10-minute walk from the park entrance. The park has free scooter parking and doesn’t allow plastic water bottles or cigarettes.

Eating Tacos

We enjoyed authentic Mexican tacos at local taquerias. Try different varieties, from classic meat options to vegetarian choices. We recommend Taqueria Honorio for pork tacos and Taqueria La Chiapaneca for al pastor tacos.

Enjoying a Day at a Beach Club

We relaxed at one of Tulum’s many beach clubs, such as Leemba and Cinco. With amenities like lounge chairs, fresh cocktails, and stunning views, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Prices start from 500 pesos (deductible from food and drink) per adult in the off-season.

Beach Day in a Natural Reserve – Jaguar Park

We visited Jaguar Park for a beach experience in a natural reserve. The 60 pesos conservation fee helps keep the place preserved and less crowded. The three main beaches are: Playa Santa Fe, Playa Pescadores, and Playa Paraíso.

Renting a Scooter

Renting a scooter is a fun and convenient way to explore Tulum. They cost around 500 pesos per day. We recommend Beach Ride Tulum for a great rental experience. They deliver and pick up at your accommodation and even gave us tips on what to do in Tulum.

Experiencing Mexican Cuisine with a Modern Twist

Tulum is known for its innovative culinary scene. We dined at Negro Huitlacoche, which offers traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist. Don’t miss the Elotes Dorados, which are truly unique.

Visiting a Food Truck Park – Palma Central

For a diverse culinary experience, we visited Palma Central, a food truck park offering a variety of delicious foods in a relaxed atmosphere. Live music makes the experience even more enjoyable.

Exploring the Streets of Downtown Tulum (Shops and Restaurants)

We strolled through the streets of downtown Tulum, where you can find artisanal shops, fashion boutiques, and cozy restaurants. It’s worth exploring the side streets off the main road.

Safety Tips

• Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is important in Mexico. Heymondo is our top choice. You can get a 5% discount here.
• Water: Always drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure of its source.
• Belongings: Keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Transport: Use reliable taxis or accredited transportation services. If renting a scooter, wear a helmet and drive carefully.

Other Tips

• Mobile Data: Stay connected at all times with Holafly eSIMs, offering unlimited data so you’re always reachable and safe. From our experience, Holafly was incredibly simple to set up and let us browse without worries about limits or connection failures, making it the perfect choice for stress-free travel. And now, you can even get 5% off your travel eSIM from Holafly!

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• Money: Always have Mexican pesos on hand, as not all establishments accept credit cards. ATMs in Mexico always charge a usage fee.
• Sunscreen: Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life.
• Language: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few words in Spanish can be helpful and appreciated by locals.

Tulum is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history lover, a culinary enthusiast, or someone looking for relaxation, Tulum will not disappoint. Make the most of your visit with these tips and discover what to do in Tulum to explore the magic of this incredible Mexican destination.