Top 10 Things to Do in Tulum

Introduction

Hi, I’m Emily and I recently had the pleasure of visiting Tulum, Mexico. It’s a beautiful destination with so much to offer. From the stunning beaches to the rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 10 things to do in Tulum, based on my own experiences and research. So, let’s get started!

Top Curiosities and Interesting Information about Tulum

Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya people
The city was a major trading hub for turquoise and jade
Tulum is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world
The city has a rich cultural heritage, with many ancient ruins and temples to explore
Tulum is known for its eco-friendly practices
The city is a popular destination for yoga and wellness retreats
The food in Tulum is a fusion of traditional Mexican cuisine and international flavors
Tulum has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs to choose from
The city is easily accessible from Cancun, with a drive of just over an hour
Tulum is a great destination for both solo travelers and families alike

1. Explore the Mayan Ruins

One of the top things to do in Tulum is to explore the ancient Mayan ruins. These ruins are located right on the coast, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Exploring the ruins is a great way to learn about the history and culture of the Mayan people.

I did this on my first day in Tulum and it led to a greater appreciation of the city’s rich cultural heritage. The ruins are well-preserved and the tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly.

Tip: Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes, as there is quite a bit of walking involved.

2. Visit the Tulum Beaches

Tulum is known for its beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear water and soft white sand. There are many beaches to choose from, each with its own unique charm.

I prefer the Playa Paraiso beach, which is known for its stunning sunsets and laid-back vibe. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the sun.

Tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat, as there is little shade on the beaches.

3. Go Snorkeling in the Cenotes

The cenotes are natural swimming holes that are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula. They are formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, revealing crystal-clear pools of water.

Snorkeling in the cenotes is a must-do activity in Tulum. The water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom, and there are many beautiful fish and underwater plants to see.

Tip: Bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning underwater scenery.

4. Take a Yoga Class

Tulum is known for its yoga and wellness retreats, and there are many studios and classes to choose from.

I took a yoga class at the Yoga Shala studio and it was a great way to start my day. The studio is located in a beautiful jungle setting and the instructor was knowledgeable and friendly.

Tip: Be sure to book your yoga class in advance, as they can fill up quickly.

5. Try the Local Cuisine

The food in Tulum is a fusion of traditional Mexican cuisine and international flavors. There are many great restaurants to choose from, each offering its own unique twist on the local cuisine.

I tried the ceviche at the El Camello Jr restaurant and it was delicious. The seafood was fresh and the flavors were bold and flavorful.

Tip: Be sure to try the local street food, such as tacos and empanadas, for an authentic taste of Tulum.

6. Go Scuba Diving in the Caribbean Sea

The Caribbean Sea is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, making it a great destination for scuba diving.

I went scuba diving with the Tank-Ha Dive Center and it was an unforgettable experience. The underwater scenery was stunning, with colorful fish and coral formations.

Tip: Be sure to book your scuba diving trip in advance, as spots can fill up quickly.

7. Visit the Tulum Art Galleries

Tulum is known for its vibrant art scene, with many galleries and exhibitions to explore.

I visited the Colectika gallery and was blown away by the beautiful artwork on display. The gallery showcases the work of local and international artists, with a focus on traditional Mexican art forms.

Tip: Be sure to check out the art markets and street vendors for unique, handmade souvenirs.

8. Attend a Beach Party

Tulum has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs to choose from. One of the top things to do in Tulum is to attend a beach party.

I attended the Papaya Playa Project beach party and it was a blast. The music was great and the atmosphere was electric.

Tip: Be sure to dress in comfortable clothes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

9. Take a Day Trip to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery.

I took a day trip to the reserve with the Sian Ka’an Community Tours and it was a great way to experience the natural beauty of Tulum. We saw many different types of animals, including dolphins, turtles, and crocodiles.

Tip: Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars to capture the stunning wildlife.

10. Stay at a Eco-Friendly Hotel

Tulum is known for its eco-friendly practices, and there are many hotels and resorts that prioritize sustainability and conservation.

I stayed at the Azulik Hotel, which is an eco-friendly resort that focuses on sustainable building practices and conservation efforts. It was a unique and unforgettable experience, with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.

Tip: Be sure to research eco-friendly hotels in advance, as they can book up quickly.

FAQs

Q: What is the best time to visit Tulum?

A: The best time to visit Tulum is from November to April, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are mild.

Q: Is Tulum safe for tourists?

A: Yes, Tulum is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions, such as not walking alone at night and keeping your valuables secure.

Q: Do I need to speak Spanish to visit Tulum?

A: While it’s always helpful to know some basic Spanish, many people in Tulum speak English and it’s easy to get by without speaking Spanish.

Q: How do I get around in Tulum?

A: The easiest way to get around in Tulum is by taxi or rental car. However, many of the top attractions are within walking or biking distance.