Travel to Tulum: An Unforgettable Vacation
Tulum, Mexico has become a popular hotspot in Mexico and is famous for its warm Caribbean blue waters, lush greenery, and is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Here is a complete guide to Tulum, Mexico, including how to get there, where to stay, the best places to eat, expected cost, tips, and activities.
Getting There
To get to Tulum, you will need to fly into Cancun and either rent a car, book a private shuttle or use public transportation. Once you get to Tulum, the area is divided into three areas, Tulum Town, Tulum Beach, and Tulum Ruins.
Cash & Credit/Bank Cards
Mexican Pesos are the most widely used currency, and even locations with credit card readers do not always function properly. It is recommended to get cash before traveling and research a good exchange rate near you since there are very few ATMs, and currency exchange places have extremely high fees.
When to Visit
If you're looking for the best time to visit the gorgeous coastal paradise of Tulum, Mexico, then the best time is from December to April. During this time of year, temperatures are mild and the sun is shining bright. Plus, the beaches are at their best, with crystal clear waters and plenty of activities to choose from. Additionally, this is the peak tourist season, so you can expect to find plenty of fun events and activities to take part in. From outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting to fascinating Mayan ruins to explore, Tulum is packed with things to do during this time of year.
Getting Around
Walking: The easiest way to get around, especially if you’re staying on Tulum Beach Road.
Bicycle: Bicycles are available for rent around Tulum Beach. If you stay at a hotel on Tulum Beach, bicycle rentals are usually complimentary. Biking is the most convenient way to get around.
Taxi: Taxis are frequent during the day and weekend nights and are easy to hail if you have luggage or don’t feel comfortable biking at night. Look for all-white cars and confirm the price before starting the journey. You can usually negotiate a cheaper price.
Expected Cost
The cost of travel to Tulum can vary depending on where you're coming from, and the time of year you plan to visit. If you're coming from the United States or Canada, you can expect to pay around $300-$600 for a round-trip flight to Cancun International Airport, the closest major airport to Tulum. From there, you can take a shuttle or taxi to Tulum, which can cost anywhere from $50-$150, depending on whether you choose a shared or private service. Once in Tulum, the cost of accommodation can vary greatly depending on the type of lodging you choose. Budget options like hostels and camping can be found for as little as $10-$20 per night, while more upscale options can cost several hundred dollars per night. Dining out can also vary significantly in cost, with street food and local eateries offering budget-friendly options and high-end restaurants catering to those with more expensive tastes. Overall, you can expect to spend anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars on a trip to Tulum, depending on your preferences and travel style.
Places to Stay
There are many hotels in Tulum to choose from, but these are some of my top recommendations:
Budget Accommodations:
Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum: This hotel offers a unique and stylish design at an affordable price. It has an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant. Prices start at around $80 per night.
Hostel Che Tulum: This hostel is located near the beach and offers dorm-style rooms as well as private rooms. It has a communal kitchen, a rooftop terrace, and a bar. Prices start at around $10 per night for a bed in a dorm room.
Moderate Accommodations:
Coco Tulum: A popular beachfront hotel known for its stunning views and laid-back atmosphere. The rooms are decorated in a bohemian style and some feature ocean views or direct beach access. Coco Tulum also has a beach bar and restaurant, yoga classes, and bike rentals. Prices start at around $150 per night.
Sanara Tulum: This eco-chic hotel is located on a secluded stretch of beach and offers luxurious yet sustainable accommodations. The rooms and suites feature organic linens, rain showers, and private balconies or terraces. Sanara Tulum also has a beachfront yoga studio, wellness center, and restaurant with healthy, locally-sourced cuisine. Prices start at around $250 per night.
La Zebra: A colorful and vibrant hotel located on Tulum's beach road. The rooms feature colorful decor, comfortable furnishings, and some have ocean views or private plunge pools. La Zebra also has a beachfront restaurant and bar with live music, a pool with swim-up bar, and bike rentals. Prices start at around $200 per night.
Nomade Tulum: A beachfront eco-chic hotel known for its bohemian style and wellness-focused activities. The property features a variety of accommodations, including beachfront tents and villas, as well as a spa, yoga studio, and two oceanfront restaurants. Starting prices for a standard room range from around $220 to $500 per night, depending on the season
Luxury Accommodations:
La Valise: A luxurious boutique hotel located on the beachfront in Tulum with an aesthetic that makes you feel like you're in a dream. Each of the 12 rooms is uniquely designed and features a private plunge pool or hot tub. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant, spa, and bar. Starting at $700 per night.
Hotel Bardo: A modern, eco-friendly hotel with 16 oceanfront suites. Each suite has a private balcony or terrace with views of the Caribbean Sea. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar, rooftop pool, and beach club. Starting at $525 per night.
Hotelito Azul: An intimate hotel with only 8 rooms, situated on a secluded beach in Tulum. The rooms are decorated in a minimalist, bohemian style and feature private terraces with views of the ocean. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant, yoga studio, and beach club. Starting at $425 per night.
Be Tulum: A stylish, eco-friendly boutique hotel located on a secluded stretch of Tulum's beach. The property features 20 suites, each with a private pool or hot tub, as well as a spa, beach club, and restaurant serving contemporary Mexican cuisine. Starting prices for a standard suite range from around $450 to $900 per night, depending on the season.
Unique Accommodations:
Habitas Tulum: This hotel offers unique tent-like rooms that are surrounded by jungle. It has a communal pool, a beach club, and a restaurant. Prices start at around $300 per night.
Azulik Tulum: This hotel offers unique treehouse-style rooms that are perched on stilts in the jungle. It has a private beach, a spa, and a restaurant. Prices start at around $400 per night.
Papaya Playa Project: This hotel offers unique eco-friendly rooms made of wood and thatched roofs. It has a beach club, a restaurant and hosts frequent events and parties. Prices start at around $200 per night.
In addition to these options, there are also many Airbnbs and vacation rentals available in Tulum. These can be a great option for those looking for a more private and customizable experience.
Where to Eat
Tulum has a vibrant food scene, offering a wide variety of options for all budgets and tastes. From traditional Mexican cuisine to international fusion dishes, there's something for everyone. Be sure to try the local seafood, fresh juices, and traditional Mexican dishes while you're there. Here are some places to eat in Tulum:
Hartwood - This restaurant is known for its innovative menu that features fresh, locally sourced ingredients cooked over an open flame. The menu changes daily based on what's available, but some standout dishes include the grilled octopus and the whole roasted fish.
ARCA - ARCA is a cozy, intimate restaurant focusing on seasonal ingredients and creative presentations. The menu changes frequently and features dishes with influences from Mexico and beyond. ARCA has received numerous accolades and is considered one of the top restaurants in Tulum.
Posada Margherita - This charming Italian restaurant on the beach offers homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and seafood dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and romantic, making it a perfect spot for a date night.
Burrito Amor - This casual eatery is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, offering a variety of burritos, tacos, and smoothie bowls. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, making it a great option for budget travelers.
Raw Love - This vegan and vegetarian cafe serves up fresh, healthy dishes made with organic ingredients. The menu includes smoothie bowls, salads, sandwiches, and delicious raw desserts.
Casa Jaguar - This restaurant and bar is known for its tropical cocktails and live music. The menu includes a mix of Mexican and international dishes, and the atmosphere is lively and fun.
El Camello Jr. - This seafood restaurant is a favorite among locals, serving up fresh and delicious ceviche, seafood cocktails, and fried fish. The prices are affordable, and the portions are generous.
Kin Toh - Situated in Azulik, Kin Toh serves delicious food in a unique setting. The bar has “nest” rooftops that guests can share and look out over Tulum jungle and beach. The restaurant is connected to their Japanese restaurant by a swimming bridge. I highly recommend a sunset drink or dinner here.
Gitano - This restaurant and bar is located in the jungle and features a trendy, bohemian atmosphere. The menu includes wood-fired dishes, fresh ceviche, and a variety of cocktails.
Kitchen Table - This intimate restaurant is located on a jungle path and serves up a set menu of Mexican-inspired dishes. The menu changes daily based on what's available, and the atmosphere is cozy and romantic.
Things to Do
Visit the Tulum Ruins - These ancient ruins are a must-see attraction in Tulum, and offer a glimpse into the history of the Mayan civilization. You can explore the well-preserved ruins, take in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, and learn about the fascinating culture and history of the region.
Swim in a Cenote - Tulum is known for its natural swimming holes, or cenotes, which are formed by underground rivers and caves. Swimming in a cenote is a unique and refreshing experience, and there are several cenotes in the area to choose from, such as Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos.
Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving - Tulum is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, which makes it a great place to go snorkeling or diving. You can see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks.
Visit the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve - This vast nature reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species. You can take a guided tour of the reserve, go bird-watching, or even take a boat tour through the wetlands.
Take a Yoga or Wellness Class - Tulum is a popular destination for wellness tourism, and there are plenty of yoga and wellness classes and retreats to choose from. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just looking to try something new, there are plenty of options available.
Visit a Beach Club - Tulum has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, and there are several beach clubs that offer amenities like loungers, umbrellas, and drinks. Some popular beach clubs in the area include Papaya Playa Project, Nomade, and Ziggy's.
Explore the Tulum Art Scene - Tulum has a thriving arts and culture scene, and there are plenty of galleries and art installations to explore. You can visit places like the Tulum Art Club, explore the street art in the town center, or attend a cultural event or festival.
Take a Bike Tour - Tulum is a very bike-friendly town, and there are several bike rental companies that offer guided tours of the area. You can explore the town and surrounding areas at your own pace, and see some of the lesser-known attractions.
Attend a Beach Party - Tulum is known for its lively beach parties, and there are several bars and clubs that offer live music, DJs, and dancing. Some popular places to party in Tulum include Gitano, Coco Tulum, and Casa Jaguar.
Visit a Local Market - Tulum has several local markets that offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods. You can visit the Tulum Artisan Market, the Tulum Farmers Market, or the Tulum Flea Market to sample some of the local flavors and culture.
Additional Tips
Don't forget to bring plenty of bug spray as mosquitos can be a problem in the area.
If you're planning on visiting the Tulum Ruins, make sure to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Respect the local culture and be mindful of the environment. Tulum has a strong focus on sustainability, so be conscious of your impact on the local ecosystem.
Make sure to carry cash with you as many places do not accept credit cards.
If you're planning on renting a car, be aware that the roads can be narrow and difficult to navigate. Consider using a shuttle or taxi service instead.
Pack light and bring comfortable shoes for walking and biking around Tulum.
Tulum is a beautiful and vibrant destination that offers something for everyone. From its stunning beaches and natural wonders to its vibrant food scene and lively nightlife, it's no wonder that it has become such a popular destination. With planning and these few helpful tips, you can have an amazing trip to Tulum that you'll never forget!