Tulum

Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
01/08/2025
Stunning beach view at Tulum, Mexico featuring turquoise waters and ancient ruins.
Camilo Laverde, Pexels

Tulum, located on Mexico's Caribbean coast, is a well-known destination recognized for its stunning white-sand beaches, ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the sea, and numerous natural swimming holes known as cenotes. It offers a blend of relaxation and adventure activities, along with a diverse culinary scene.

For socializing, the Tulum Centro (Pueblo) area is a central hub with local food options, shops, and a relaxed atmosphere, attracting travelers and backpackers. The middle section of the Tulum Beach area, also referred to as the Hotel Zone, is known for its vibrant nightlife, popular clubs, restaurants, and beach clubs. Additionally, specific hostels offer common areas for meeting other travelers.

Top 5 Things to do in Tulum

Tulum offers a diverse array of experiences, from exploring ancient Mayan history and immersing oneself in natural wonders like cenotes and biosphere reserves, to enjoying vibrant beach club atmospheres and lively nightlife.

1. Explore the Ancient Tulum Ruins

Perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Tulum archaeological site provides a unique glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. Wandering through this walled city, once a vital trading hub, one can appreciate the historical significance and strategic location. It is recommended to visit early in the morning, around 8:00 AM, or in the late afternoon after 3:00 PM, to avoid the largest crowds and the midday heat. While direct beach access from the ruins is now closed, nearby public beaches offer an opportunity to cool off after exploring.

Cost: The total entrance fee, which covers the archaeological zone, the National Park, and Jaguar Park, ranges from approximately MXN $455 to $515 (about US$22 to US$25) per person. Cash payment is often required.

Transport: The ruins are a short distance from Tulum town. A taxi from Tulum Pueblo to the ruins costs around MXN $150. An optional shuttle from the parking area to the entrance is available for approximately MXN $50.

2. Immerse in Cenotes

Cenotes are natural sinkholes, sacred to the ancient Mayans, offering crystal-clear freshwater for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Gran Cenote, a semi-open cenote, is renowned for its stunning blue waters, intricate cave formations, and resident turtles, providing excellent snorkeling opportunities. Cenote Dos Ojos, meaning 'Two Eyes,' is a captivating cave cenote system popular for both snorkeling and serious diving, known for its incredibly clear water and unique rock formations. It is advisable to arrive early at popular cenotes to experience them with fewer crowds. Mandatory life jackets are typically included in the entrance fee, but additional gear like snorkel equipment or lockers may incur an extra charge. Always shower before entering a cenote to protect its delicate ecosystem.

Cost: Gran Cenote: Approximately MXN $500 (around US$25-30), which generally includes a life jacket. Lockers are about MXN $30. Cenote Dos Ojos: Basic entry is around MXN $350-400 (approximately US$18-21), including a life jacket. A premium package with a guided tour, locker, and snorkel gear may cost around MXN $700 (about US$35). Cash payment is often preferred or required at cenotes.

Transport: Gran Cenote is about 5 km from Tulum Centro. A taxi costs around MXN $150-300 one-way. Renting a bike for about MXN $100 per day allows for a 15-20 minute ride. Colectivos cost around MXN $25 but are less reliable. Cenote Dos Ojos is about 14 km north of Tulum. A colectivo from Tulum Pueblo is around MXN $40 and drops off at the park entrance, followed by a roughly 2 km walk to the cenote. A taxi from Tulum Pueblo would be about MXN $200-300.

3. Discover the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast protected area south of Tulum, encompassing tropical forests, mangroves, and diverse marine environments. It offers a chance to observe exotic wildlife and explore ancient Mayan canals by floating through interconnected lagoons and mangroves. Tours often highlight the rich biodiversity and offer experiences like birdwatching and exploring hidden Mayan ruins within the reserve. Booking a guided tour is the most recommended way to experience the reserve's unique ecology, as it provides transportation and expert insight.

Cost: Shared tours typically start from US$160 per person and often include transportation, a professional guide, and meals. Private tours are also available at a higher cost. A DIY trip involving the Muyil ruins, boardwalk, and a boat tour can cost around MXN $1,163 per person, excluding transportation from Tulum.

Transport: Most tours to Sian Ka'an include round-trip transportation from Tulum. For independent travelers, colectivos may go to Muyil, near part of the reserve, but exploring the deeper parts generally requires a tour.

4. Indulge in Tulum's Beach Clubs

Tulum's coastline is dotted with a variety of beach clubs, each offering a distinct atmosphere. From tranquil spots focused on relaxation and gastronomic delights like Ziggy's Beach Club, to more vibrant venues like Papaya Playa Project known for its parties and DJ sets, there is an option for every preference. Many beach clubs require a minimum spend, which often serves as credit for food and drinks. It is advisable to make reservations, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.

Cost: Costs vary significantly. Minimum spends can range from US$30-70 at more laid-back clubs like Ziggy's, to US$50-100 or more at party-centric venues like Papaya Playa Project, or even MXN $1,000-2,000 at luxury clubs like Ahau Tulum.

Transport: Most beach clubs are located along the Hotel Zone (Tulum Beach Road). Taxis are widely available, with fares depending on the distance from Tulum Centro. Biking is a popular and budget-friendly option for getting to closer beach clubs.

5. Experience Tulum's Vibrant Nightlife

As the sun sets, Tulum transforms with a lively nightlife scene that balances laid-back charm with energetic parties. In Tulum Pueblo (town center), venues like Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar offer a relaxed atmosphere with live music and unique cocktails. The Hotel Zone features more upscale establishments and beach clubs that host renowned DJ sets and themed parties, particularly on weekends. Papaya Playa Project is famous for its large Saturday night and Full Moon parties, where one can dance on the sand under the stars. Other popular spots like Vagalume and Gitano (both beach and jungle locations) offer unique ambiance with electronic music and signature drinks.

Cost: Entrance fees to clubs and drink prices vary widely. Many beach clubs have a cover charge or minimum spend for evening events. Local bars in Tulum Pueblo tend to be more affordable than the beach clubs in the Hotel Zone.

Transport: Tulum Pueblo bars are typically within walking distance or a short taxi ride from accommodations in the town center. The Hotel Zone's nightlife can be reached by taxi; fares can be higher at night, so it is important to agree on the price beforehand. Some larger parties in the jungle may offer bus transportation from designated pickup points.

Check out our other pages on Tulum

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