{"id":1151,"date":"2024-01-07T04:16:44","date_gmt":"2024-01-07T04:16:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/27-best-things-to-do-in-tulum-mexico-in-2024\/"},"modified":"2024-01-07T04:16:44","modified_gmt":"2024-01-07T04:16:44","slug":"27-best-things-to-do-in-tulum-mexico-in-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/ar\/27-best-things-to-do-in-tulum-mexico-in-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"27 Best Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico In 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Tulum is nestled on the sun-kissed Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and is a unique fusion of cultural heritage and impressive natural scenery. Our expert guide is packed with things to do in Tulum that will add the perfect zest to your travel diary. We first visited Tulum while scuba diving our way through Central America in 2003. <\/p>\n

Twenty years later, things have changed a lot, but one thing is certain, the beauty has endured. Picture yourself wandering through the iconic Mayan ruins set against the backdrop of the azure Caribbean Sea or diving into the hidden cenotes veiled by emerald jungles. Ready to dive in? Let\u2019s uncover the top experiences in Tulum that promise to enrich your journey with unforgettable memories.<\/p>\n

Top Things to Do in Tulum <\/h2>\n
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Tulum\u2019s Yucatan Peninsula\u00a0is a haven of thick jungle, Ancient Mayan ruins, and white sand beaches. It\u2019s essentially everything you want in a beautiful holiday to Mexico. There are so many things to do in Tulum, including that loveably cheesy photoshoot spot near the Tulum sign.<\/p>\n

Tulum is tucked away on the eastern coast, south of Mexico\u2019s Riviera Maya. It is just a short drive south of the tourist hubs of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, making it the perfect place to make a base when exploring Mexico\u2019s Yucatan Peninsula. Its convenient location means you can mix up days of adventure with moments of pure chill, all within a stone\u2019s throw from each other. <\/p>\n

It\u2019s a great starting point for all sorts of experiences, whether you\u2019re here to dive, explore, or just soak up the laid-back vibe. Renting a car is the best way to get around Mexico\u2019s Yucatan Peninsula. You can compare car rental prices here. <\/p>\n

1. Tulum Mayan Ruins<\/h2>\n
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The Tulum Ruins are located just 20 minutes from the Tulum city center, and should be the first stop on your list. They have a dramatic setting, overlooking the gorgeous Caribbean Sea and the white sand beach below.<\/p>\n

Compared to other ruins sites in the Yucatan, the Tulum Mayan Ruins are small. However, it\u2019s one of the most beautiful ruins in Mexico thanks to its privileged location on the cliffside.<\/p>\n

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Inside, you\u2019ll see the Templo del Viento (Wind Temple), Templo del Dios Descendente (Temple of the Descending God), El Castillo (The Castle), and Templo de Los Frescos (Temple of the Frescoes). There is a designated pathway to walk along, so if you follow the path, you won\u2019t miss a thing.\u00a0This guided tour\u00a0takes you through the archeological site and a visit to Cenote Chen H\u00e1 and Mariposa\u00a0cenotes. <\/p>\n

You\u00a0can tour the entire\u00a0site in about one hour<\/strong>, but when you visit the ruins, try to go early in the day because there\u2019s no shade, and it gets very, very hot. One of the best things about the Tulum Ruins is that you can head down to the beach after visiting the ruins and jump into the sea. To see more nearby Mayan ruins, read our post: Best Mayan Ruins in Tulum<\/p>\n

Address:<\/strong>\u00a0Carretera Federal, Cancun \u2013 Chetumal Km 230, 307, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico. There is a parking lot where you can park your rental car and walk. Or there is a train for 10 pesos that you can take as well.<\/p>\n

2. Sian Ka\u2019an Biosphere Reserve<\/h2>\n
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Sian Ka\u2019an Biosphere Reserve is a massive natural park of 5,280 km2. It is just south of Tulum, further down into the state of Quintana Roo. Despite being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts fewer tourists. It is somewhere to visit for a real jungle experience, out in the remote areas of Tulum\u2019s coastline. <\/p>\n

Sian Ka\u2019an Biosphere Reserve is one of Tulum\u2019s best things to do to get \u2018off the beaten track.\u2019 And it offers a more intense jungle experience than short hikes to cenotes and Tulum ruins. The best way to experience the reserve is by guided tour. The park is so massive that you want some direction from a knowledgeable guide.<\/p>\n

3. Spend time Tulum Town aka Tulum Pueblo<\/h2>\n
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Tulum Pueblo is the bustling town of Tulum and a must-visit for tourists seeking an authentic Mexican experience. Unlike the beach zone, Tulum Pueblo offers a glimpse into everyday life with its unique blend of local culture and modern conveniences. <\/p>\n

Here, you can wander along the main street, Avenida Tulum, lined with various shops, restaurants, and bars that showcase the region\u2019s culinary diversity. Key attractions include the local market, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and traditional textiles, and the Tulum Art Club, a cultural hub for art and music. <\/p>\n

For dining, the Pueblo offers an array of options, from street food stalls serving tacos and tamales to cozy cafes and upscale eateries. The town comes alive in the evenings with vibrant nightlife spots offering live music and dance. Tulum Pueblo\u2019s proximity to major attractions like the Tulum ruins and cenotes, combined with its more affordable lodging options, makes it an ideal base for travelers wanting to explore the area\u2019s natural and historical sites while experiencing the local lifestyle.<\/p>\n

4. Bike to Tulum Beach<\/h2>\n
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If you are not staying in the Hotel Zone on Tulum Beach, it is easy to get to the beach from Tulum Town. You can opt for a quick taxi ride, rent a bicycle for a scenic route, or even take a stroll if you\u2019re up for some exercise. <\/p>\n

Once you arrive, you\u2019re greeted with powdery white sand and turquoise, postcard-perfect waters. Here, you can indulge in various activities \u2013 relax on the beach with a good book, take a refreshing dip in the Caribbean Sea, or try stand-up paddleboarding for some adventure. <\/p>\n

Don\u2019t miss out on the beach clubs and beach bars where you can enjoy a cocktail with a view. The nearby Tulum Ruins are perched on a cliff overlooking the beach. <\/p>\n

5. Playa Paraiso <\/h2>\n
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Playa Paraiso translates exactly to Paradise Beach, and if that doesn\u2019t sell you, we don\u2019t know what will. The beach, we can attest, does look like paradise. Picture those slanted palm trees just\u00a0made\u00a0<\/em>for climbing, white sand, and lulling waves \u2013 it is one of the best beaches in Mexico. You can grab food and snap pictures by its huge multi-colored sign; Paradise Beach is the main beach in Tulum, and it\u2019s easy to see why it made our list of Best Beaches in Mexico.<\/p>\n

Playa Paraiso is a 20-minute drive or an hour\u2019s walk from the town center. If you choose to walk, you\u2019ll pass through the Parque Nacional Tulum on foot. You could easily combine this with a visit to the Playa Ruinas, El Castillo, Casa de Cenote, and the beloved turtle beach, Playita Tortuga.<\/p>\n

6. Other Tulum Beaches<\/h2>\n
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Tulum Beaches are actually several small beaches connected along 10 km of the beautiful Caribbean Coast from Sian Ka\u2019an\u00a0National Biosphere Reserve in the South to the Tulum Mayan Ruins in the North with the Tulum Hotel Zone being the main beach area. <\/p>\n

Playa Ruinas<\/strong> is famous for its spectacular backdrop of the Tulum Ruins. The combination of the ancient Mayan structure on the cliff above and the gorgeous beach below is truly breathtaking.<\/p>\n

Las Palmas Public Beach<\/strong>: This beach is a great choice for those looking to escape the more popular tourist spots. It offers a more tranquil setting while still featuring Tulum\u2019s signature beautiful waters and sand.<\/p>\n

Ziggy Beach<\/strong>: Popular for its beach club, Ziggy Beach offers a lively atmosphere with excellent food, drinks, and music. It\u2019s a great spot for those looking to combine beach relaxation with entertainment.<\/p>\n

Secret Beach (Playa Escondida)<\/strong>: As the name suggests, this beach is a bit off the beaten path, offering a more secluded and peaceful environment. It\u2019s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet time.<\/p>\n

Akumal Beach<\/strong>: While not in Tulum itself, Akumal Beach is a short drive away and well worth the visit, especially for snorkeling to swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat.<\/p>\n

7. Hop Between Beach Clubs<\/h2>\n
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When it comes to beach clubs, head out of Tulum Pueblo instead of Tulum Beach. This neighborhood is packed with beach bars and clubs, and you can easily spend a day (or night) hopping between them before finally booking a taxi back to your hotel. <\/p>\n

This is the die-hard party strip, and you can expect extravagant cocktails and music at all hours. If you are a partier, beach club hopping is easily one of the most fun things to do in Tulum. A taxi ride will take as little as 10 minutes.<\/p>\n

8. Cenote Calavera<\/h2>\n
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Cenote Calavera is a famous cenote that you\u2019ve very likely seen before. The cenote is sat in a massive sinkhole with a wooden ladder teetering down the edge into the water. Photo by Mal Hellyer, you can read her entire article about the Best Cenotes in Mexico here. <\/p>\n

The cenote hole with its ladder is one of the most photographed places in Tulum, and when you see it, you will understand why. Inside the main pool, there is also a swing, which also is a cool photo spot.<\/p>\n

The cenote is surrounded by greenery and colorful sun loungers where you can dry off and catch some sun. There is also a snack shop, and as at most cenotes \u2013 showers, toilets and changing rooms. Cenote Calavera is situated just outside Tulum downtown, off the main road to Coba Mayan ruins, and you can easily cycle to its entrance or grab a taxi.<\/p>\n

Of Tulum town\u2019s nearby cenotes, Cenote Calavera is the one that is the most covered by the rock above. It has a natural cavern feel, which is atmospheric and makes for a unique swimming spot. Cenote Calavera is also just a 10-minute drive from Tulum Pueblo center if you need any more persuading. Tulum Ruins Visit and Swim in Two Different Cenotes Guided Tour <\/strong>(Our favorite).<\/p>\n

You will soon find out that there are a lot of Cenotes near Tulum. Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Car Wash, and Cenote Zacil-Ha are just a few. We highlight some of our favorites further down.<\/p>\n