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Located along the Mayan Riviera, Tulum has emerged as a trendy coastal destination over the past decade, attracting visitors with its relaxed ambiance and diverse community.
A significant part of Tulum’s charm is derived from its expansive beaches, adorned with beach clubs and cabana accommodations, where attentive staff will deliver all you require to your hammock or sun lounger.
The Mayan Riviera is uniquely characterized by cenotes, a term from the Mayan language meaning “Sacred Well.” These natural formations, encompassing springs, caves, and underground rivers, are exclusive to this region of Mexico.
While some cenotes have been transformed into eco-parks featuring a variety of activities such as zip-lining, snorkeling, and cycling, others remain largely undeveloped, catering predominantly to expert cave divers.
However, a visit to Tulum necessitates exploring the archaeological site for which the area is named, positioned atop a cliff and fortified by protective walls.
Let us delve into the top activities to enjoy in Tulum:
1. Tulum Ruins
As one of the last remaining Mayan cities, Tulum was a prominent port between the 1200s and 1400s and is distinguished by the fact that it thrived for several years even after the Spanish conquest.
These ruins should be a priority during your visit to Tulum, as they represent some of the best-preserved Mayan structures on the Yucatán Peninsula, particularly notable for their enclosing walls.
This fortification reaches heights of up to five meters and is punctuated by gates, with cliffs providing a natural defense to the east.
Adjacent to this imposing wall, the Temple of the Frescoes is a must-visit site, showcasing haunting murals within its interiors and representations of the “diving god” within facade niches.
2. Sian Ka’an
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka’an translates to “Origin of the Sky” in the Mayan language.
This area encompasses mangroves, tropical forests, marshes, and lagoons surrounded by a barrier reef.
Sian Ka’an is renowned for its archaeological significance, hosting over 20 identified sites, in addition to its diverse wildlife, including pumas, jaguars, crocodiles, ocelots, margays, iguanas, howler monkeys, tapirs, and an array of bird species, such as pelicans and Amazon parrots.
During a guided tour, you will embark on an off-road trek through the forest and journey out to the lagoon where you may observe dolphins, turtles, manatees, and crocodiles, as well as have opportunities for safe snorkeling.
3. Sistema Sac Actun
Discovered only in 1987, Sistema Sac Actun is potentially the largest explored underwater cave system globally.
When combining its above-water and subaqueous tunnels, the system measures over 346 kilometers.
While visitors will only experience a segment, it is assuredly sufficient to appreciate this natural wonder.
Entrance fees typically include a life jacket and snorkel gear, with options for additional equipment such as wetsuits and waterproof cameras.
The guided experience lasts about 90 minutes, giving you a detailed overview of the cave’s stunning formations, the numerous bats residing among the stalactites, and the Mayan archaeological finds and Paleolithic remains discovered within.
4. Xel-Há Park
Located just 15 minutes along Route 307, Xel-Há is an aquatic theme park combined with archaeological elements managed by the Xcaret Group.
The venue occupies a rocky inlet, a natural harbor historically referred to by the Mayans as the place “where the water is born” and was utilized as a port by the Spanish.
Xel-Há offers a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts; visitors can snorkel in the lagoon (secured with shark nets) alongside barracudas, stingrays, parrotfish, and tangs, zip-line through the area, hike or cycle in the jungle, and explore cave systems.
For relaxation, attendees can float on air tubes or recline in hammocks and sun loungers.
5. Playa Paraíso
Playa Paraíso, Tulum’s main public beach, commences beneath the cliffs just south of the ruins.
As you descend, the terrain levels out, revealing a picturesque landscape of coconut palms, beach bars furnished with hammocks and comfortable seating.
The expansive stretch of soft, powdery sand at Playa Paraíso provides ample space for visitors, with the shallow, clear turquoise waters inviting relaxation.
Visitors may choose to bring their own refreshments for a picnic, purchase items such as empanadas or tortas (sandwiches) from local vendors, or wander to a bar for agua fresca, margaritas, or refreshing beers while observing the gentle surf.
6. Playa Ruinas
After exploring Tulum’s ruins, descend the stairs from the cliff to immerse yourself in the sea.
While history and swimming are typically disparate activities, in Tulum, they combine effortlessly, particularly with a beach as inviting as this one.
The grey limestone cliffs rise majestically, standing at 12 meters above a pristine stretch of white sand, interspersed with large, weathered rocks that have eroded over time.
Due to the proximity to the ruins, facilities are lacking at the beach, necessitating that visitors prepare a picnic and wear swimsuits beneath their clothing should they wish to stay for an extended period.
7. Gran Cenote
Situated just off the main road outside Tulum, Gran Cenote attracts a significant number of visitors.
However, as indicated by its name, this pair of partially submerged caves is vast, so if solitude is preferred, simply swim a little further.
Gran Cenote is also suitable for families and novice swimmers: with the provided snorkeling equipment and life jackets, simply dip your head beneath the clear water to enjoy its enchanting rock formations.
Keep an eye out for bats flying overhead or nesting, as well as turtles swimming below the surface.
8. Cenotes Labnaha
Located on Mayan land, Cenotes Labnaha operates as a non-profit entity that benefits local communities.
Visitors are required to wear safety gear, including life jackets, swim shoes, and helmets, while being guided through these exquisite yet less frequented water caves.
Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into how the cave’s impressive stalactites have formed, identify local wildlife, and discuss the site’s significance to the Mayan people.
It is advisable to arrange your visit in advance online for a discounted rate; the excursion begins with a three-kilometer 4×4 ride through dense jungle.
9. Diving
Within the Mayan Riviera, diving opportunities are available in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Given the numerous cenotes in this region, it stands out as a preeminent destination for cave diving, with multiple centers offering guided dives, training, and all necessary equipment.
Cave diving is an undertaking meant for advanced divers only (tailored cenote snorkeling tours are also offered), allowing exploration of locations that have recently been mapped.
In terms of marine experiences, Tulum boasts proximity to the world’s second-largest barrier reef.
Divers will have the chance to explore caverns and coral arches, swimming in close proximity to nurse sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
If you are a beginner planning to stay in Tulum for over a week, PADI certification is achievable within days; however, for those with limited time, most centers provide introductory dives following a theoretical briefing.
10. Casa Cenote
Located ten kilometers up the coast, Casa Cenote is among the less frequented cenotes in the Mayan Riviera.
This open-air cenote allows its freshwater springs to filter into the Caribbean Sea, merely meters away.
With a sandy bottom, a vast lagoon of crystal-clear water awaits those looking to cool off.
Visitors must pay an entrance fee and may opt for a guided tour, although this is not obligatory.
If you wish to snorkel and observe the underwater ecosystems, equipment rentals are available.
11. Muyil
While Tulum’s ruins are remarkable, they are also among the most frequented sites in Mexico.
For those interested in experiencing Mayan archaeology in a more tranquil environment, Muyil is merely 15 minutes away within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
Numerous tour operators offer combined excursions to both the ruins and the natural reserve, or visitors may choose to venture independently.
Situated deep within the jungle, Muyil is accessible via elevated wooden walkways.
By moving quietly, you may stumble upon howler monkeys or spider monkeys overhead.
The prominent structure here is El Castillo, a 17-meter-high pyramid, along with informative boards elaborating on the history of this site, inhabited for more than a millennium until the 16th century.
On the path to the lagoon, an observation tower provides stunning views of Sian Ka’an.
12. Coba
Tulum served as the port and satellite for the city of Coba, located 45 kilometers inland along the straight Route 109. With its collection of pyramids peeking through the jungle canopy, the site is expansive; thus, renting a bicycle is advisable for comprehensive exploration.
At its apex during the Late Classic Period, Coba was home to around 50,000 residents, coinciding with the carving of the city’s notable stelae.
These stone artifacts provide fascinating insights into life in Coba, revealing aspects of dress, religious practices, and gender roles (many depict women holding positions of influence). The Nohoch Mul Pyramid, the tallest at Coba, stands at 42 meters, offering panoramic views of the Yucatán Peninsula and revealing sections of the site that remain unexplored.
13. Ziggy Beach
Ziggy Beach operates as a private beach club, featuring an entrance fee of $35 USD, which encompasses parking and access to comfortable sun loungers.
Characterized by idyllic tropical scenery, visitors can enjoy the gentle sway of coconut palms over white sands and crystal-clear seas with calming surf.
Ziggy Beach is designed as a family-friendly establishment, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere in the restaurant, which surpasses typical dining experiences.
Under the palm fronds, you can enjoy culinary delights such as tuna tacos, mango ceviche, and shrimp tacos while taking in the views of the shimmering waves.
14. Water Sports
The expansive stretches along Tulum’s coast can experience strong breezes, providing ideal conditions for kitesurfing.
The warm waters and gentle waves create a welcoming environment for newcomers looking to take their first lesson.
Several companies also offer paddleboarding excursions, allowing for a fresh perspective of the Mayan ruins.
Snorkeling becomes almost instinctive for frequent visitors to the numerous cenotes.
Some diving centers even provide snorkeling adventures to the reef, allowing a glimpse of the extraordinary underwater ecosystems without the need for scuba certification.
15. Cuisine
Tulum’s esteemed hotels and affluent visitor demographic support a vibrant culinary scene, while also showcasing a variety of Yucateco specialties.
Sopa de lima Yucateca is a refreshing chicken soup infused with lime flavors.
This citrus fruit is also pivotal in the preparation of ceviche, a hallmark dish of the Caribbean made with octopus, shrimp, tuna, or squid.
Shrimp in garlic sauce presents a less adventurous option, whereas for an authentic experience, sampling pescado tikin xic is highly recommended.
This dish features grouper or drum fish marinated in local achiote spice and sour oranges, then cooked in banana leaves over a wood fire.
For beverages, ice-cold aguas frescas offer a refreshing change to traditional alcohol.
A globally popular choice is horchata, made with vanilla, almonds, rice, and cinnamon.
