A Complete Guide to Top Attractions and Activities in Tulum

Tulum is located on the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and is quickly becoming one of the world’s most famous travel destinations.

With stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and a thriving local culture, Tulum has a little bit of everything, making it the ideal vacation spot for those looking to escape.

Our guide will help ensure that your two-week stay in Tulum will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture while exploring everything this incredible region has to offer.

Transportation

While Tulum doesn’t have its own dedicated airport, most travelers choose to fly into Cancún International Airport, which is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) north of Tulum.

This airport is a major transportation hub, where you’ll find commercial flights and space for those who plan to arrive on a charter jet. Once you’ve reached Cancún, there are several ways to get to Tulum.

Rental Car

Many travelers choose to rent a car to get from Cancún to Tulum, as having access to a vehicle for the duration of your trip can come in very handy. In total, the journey should take around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Shuttle Service

Some hotels and resorts offer shuttle services from Cancún Airport, so it’s worth checking beforehand to avoid wasting money.

Public Bus

The ADO bus service is a much cheaper way to travel from Cancún to Tulum. Buses are comfortable, run on a reliable schedule, and take around 2 hours.

Private Transfer

For those seeking a VIP experience, you can book a private airport transfer. This door-to-door service is ideal for travelers wanting a stress-free, more private journey.

Tulum’s Top Hotels

For travelers looking to indulge in the finer things, Tulum’s beachfront resorts offer stunning ocean views and a world-class experience.

But if that isn’t quite what you’re looking for, the area is also home to several charming boutique hotels, which offer a more intimate experience compared to larger resorts.

Azulik

Azulik is a world-renowned eco-resort with luxurious treehouse villas.

The only catch is that there is no electricity or Wi-Fi, but the upside is that it encourages guests to disconnect from the busyness of their daily lives and reconnect with nature.

Be Tulum

Be Tulum is a peaceful retreat with a wide range of beautifully designed suites, where you’ll see rustic charm combined with a modern twist to create something truly unique. If you want to unwind in peace, Be Tulum has several hot tubs and private pools.

The Beach Tulum

If you’re looking for a more private experience, why not consider an adults-only hotel? The Beach Tulum has many spacious beachfront rooms with direct access to the sand, while the hotel’s rooftop terraces are perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

Exploring the Tulum’s Beaches

Tulum is famous for its breathtaking beaches, each of which offers something unique, so why not visit as many as you can?

Playa Paraíso

Playa Paraíso is consistently ranked among the very best beaches in the world thanks to its brilliant white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it great for swimming and sunbathing.

Playa Ruinas

A small beach located below the ancient ruins, Playa Ruinas is truly unique in that it has a stunning backdrop of ancient Mayan structures overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Las Palmas

If you want to avoid the crowds and unwind in perfect tranquility, Las Palmas is the ideal beach as it’s much less crowded. It’s a great spot for those wanting to spend the entire day in peace.

Enjoying Water Activities in Tulum

Along with incredible beaches and breathtaking ancient ruins, the waters around Tulum also have a lot to offer.

Tulum is located on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. This makes it the perfect place for snorkeling or scuba diving and seeing the area’s marine life up close.

For the thrill seekers among you, why not experience Tulum’s famous cenotes in the flesh?

These cenotes are natural sinkholes that are filled with fresh water and are perfect for driving or snorkeling. Some of the more well-known cenotes are Gran Cenote, Dos Ojos, and Casa Cenote.

But if that sounds a bit too risky, Tulum’s beaches are also known for kitesurfing, thanks to steady winds and very favorable conditions out at sea. If you need some help, several schools offer lessons for beginners.

Tulum’s Top Attractions

While in Tulum, there are many other things you can do other than enjoy cocktails by the pool, catch some sun on the beach, and spend time on the water.

Tulum Ruins

One of the most famous attractions in Tulum is the Tulum Ruins.

These ruins are perched on the cliff and overlook the Caribbean Sea, providing a true glimpse of Mayan architecture.

The most well-known structures include El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a huge area home to tropical forests, mangroves, and even a slice of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

If you want to truly appreciate the region, you can pay for guided tours — a great way to support the local historians and the tourism industry.

Coba Ruins

The Coba Ruins are another important archaeological site located around 45 minutes from Tulum.

These jungles don’t overlook the sea but can be found deep in the jungle. They’re home to the Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula.

Tulum Pueblo

Tulum Pueblo is the local town center and is a must-visit place if you wind up visiting the area.

In the town center, you’ll find many authentic restaurants, shops, and market stalls. It’s the perfect place to experience traditional Mexican life.

Planning Your Trip to Tulum

Two weeks is plenty of time to experience the very best of what Tulum has to offer.

There are many attractions and activities for you to visit when in the area, and you’ll also be able to relax and unwind in perfect peace. No matter what type of trip you’re looking for, Tulum has something to offer every traveler.