By Rachael Funk
A peaceful town on the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is the ideal destination for rest, relaxation, and getting in touch with nature. The town on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast is bursting with breathtaking sights, ancient wonders, and plenty of spectacular ways to make your vacation the trip of a lifetime.
If you’re not sure where to get started, check out these exciting things to do in Tulum!
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Eat your heart out!
If you’re looking for fresh and vibrant Mexican cuisine, Tulum in speckled with options for a satisfying night out. Pop by Puro Corazón for nightly live music, superb house-made cocktails, and flavors to delight your palate. The gravel floors and painted furniture completes the lively atmosphere and makes this restaurant a “must-see” while you’re in town.
Rent a bike to get around
Forget taxis to get around Tulum, grab a bike instead! Since the city center and the coastline are spaced out a bit, it could be a long walk or a short dive to get from place to place. Instead of waiting around for a car service, hop on a bike to give your exploration a more personal feel. Not only will it free up your schedule, you’ll come home with an enviable tan and calves like an Olympic shot putter.
Camp out on a pristine beach
Stretch out on sand as soft as powdered sugar and take a dip in the clear water. Seize a quiet afternoon on the idyllic shores to sip a cool drink and watch palm trees swaying the breeze. If you can’t tear yourself away from the mesmerizing shore, many of Tulum’s beaches have campsites to rent for a nominal fee.
Plunge into a cenote
A hidden gem on the Riviera Maya, El Gran Cenote awaits discovery on your trip. The cenote is an underground cavern filled with water considered sacred by the Mayans. An unparalleled experience, you can swim, snorkel, and dive through this geological wonder.
Witness turtle nesting season
A magical event that takes place from May to October, you can see turtles nesting and eggs hatching during nesting season. A day trip to Akumal will put you in the perfect spot to snorkel with turtles year-round if you want to see them up close.
Explore ancient ruins
Among the best-known archaeological sites in the world, the ruins of Tulum are as stunning as they are old. Get there early to avoid crowds and take in the gorgeous views of the ruins, the cliffs, and the ocean below.
Adventure through Sian Ka’an
A biosphere reserve in the municipality of Tulum and a UNESCO world heritage center, this is a day trip you won’t want to miss! One of Quintana Roo’s top eco-tourism destinations, you can find something to impress every traveler here. Hike through mangroves and forests, snorkel over the barrier reef, and spot wildlife such as ocelots, jaguars, and pumas.
Take a spa break
Tulum is not only famous for its gorgeous natural surroundings, great food, and picturesque beaches, it’s a great place to take a wellness break, too! The coastline is studded with great places to practice yoga, enjoy spa treatments, get an incredible massage, and so much more!