The Best Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico while on Vacation

Tulum is known for its stunning beaches

Tulum is world-renowned for its stunning beaches, which feature crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft, white sand. With over 10 kilometers of coastline, visitors to Tulum have plenty of beach options to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular beaches in Tulum:

• Playa Paraíso: This wide stretch of white sand is one of the most popular beaches in Tulum. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach is lined with a variety of restaurants and bars.
• Playa Ruinas: Located in front of the Tulum Ruins, this beach offers stunning views of the ancient structures and the sea. Visitors can swim in the clear waters and explore the nearby rocky outcroppings.
• Playa Pescadores: This is a popular spot for snorkeling, thanks to the abundance of colorful fish that can be seen in the clear waters. Visitors can also rent lounge chairs and umbrellas to relax and soak up the sun.
• Xcacel Beach: This beautiful beach is located about 20 minutes from Tulum and is a protected area that's home to sea turtles. Visitors can swim in the calm waters and relax on the soft sand.
• Boca Paila Beach: This secluded beach is located just south of Tulum and is a great spot for those looking for a quieter and more peaceful beach experience. The soft sand and clear waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Do consider: Access to the beaches is a right of the public according to Mexican federal law. While the above beaches are easy to access, this is not always the case in the Riviera Maya. Access to other beaches is somewhat restricted by private developments or hotels, so the solution is to go directly to beach clubs where there is a minimum consumption required.

Overall, the beaches of Tulum are a must-see for anyone visiting this beautiful destination. With their crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views, they're the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Caribbean coast.

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Tulum was once an important center of the Mayan civilization

Culture abounds in Tulum and there are still many ancient ruins and structures to explore today. The most famous of these is the Tulum Ruins, which are located on a cliff overlooking the sea. These ruins date back to the 13th century and were once an important port for the Mayan civilization. Visitors can explore the ancient structures, including the Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God, and learn about the history and culture of the Mayan people.

In addition to the Tulum Ruins, there are many other important Mayan sites to explore in the area. The Coba Ruins, located about an hour's drive from Tulum, are another must-see destination. This ancient city was once home to over 50,000 people and features a network of stone causeways and structures that visitors can explore. And for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, check out the Muyil Ruins, which are located in the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and offer a peaceful and secluded setting for exploring Mayan history.

Check out these exciting tours of ancient Tulum.

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The food scene in Tulum is ever expanding

Tulum offers a wide range of delicious local cuisine that's sure to please any foodie. The town is particularly known for its seafood, which is caught fresh daily and served up in a variety of mouth-watering dishes. Some of the most popular restaurants in town include Hartwood, which is known for its wood-fired cooking and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and El Asadero, which serves up delicious tacos and other Mexican favorites.

Tulum is also well-known for its healthy and organic food scene, and there are many restaurants and cafes in town that cater to health-conscious visitors and this is actually one of the reasons we love staying at our Airbnb once a month.

Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat clean and fresh food, Tulum has plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few healthy places to eat in Tulum:

• Raw Love: This vegan restaurant is located on the beach and serves up a range of healthy and delicious dishes, including smoothie bowls, salads, and vegan tacos. Raw Love is known for its fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
• Matcha Mama: If you're a fan of matcha, this is the place to be. Matcha Mama serves up a range of matcha-based drinks and snacks, as well as fresh fruit bowls and smoothies. The atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed, making it the perfect spot to chill out and enjoy a healthy snack.
• Farm to Table: This restaurant is all about using fresh, organic ingredients that are sourced from local farmers. The menu features a range of healthy and delicious dishes, including salads, wraps, and smoothies, as well as a selection of gluten-free and vegan options.
• Charly's Vegan Tacos: This popular restaurant serves up a range of delicious vegan tacos, made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of unique and creative flavor combinations, including jackfruit, cauliflower, and mushroom tacos.

These are just a few of the many healthy places to eat in Tulum. Whether you're looking for a quick snack, a refreshing smoothie, or a full meal, you're sure to find something that fits your dietary preferences and taste buds in this beautiful destination.

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Biking in Tulum is a popular activity

Biking is a great way to explore the town and its surrounding areas while also enjoying the beautiful natural scenery. The town has a relatively flat terrain, making it easy to bike around even for those who aren't experienced cyclists. Here are a few things to keep in mind when biking in Tulum:

• Rent a bike: There are many bike rental shops in Tulum that offer a range of bikes to choose from, including beach cruisers, mountain bikes, and electric bikes. Most rental shops also provide helmets and locks, so you can safely store your bike while exploring.
• Explore the town: Tulum is a small town that's easy to navigate by bike. You can ride along the main street, Avenida Tulum, and explore the colorful buildings and street art that line the road. Biking is also a great way to get to the Tulum Ruins, which are located about 2 km from the town center.
• Ride to the beach: Tulum's beaches are a must-see for anyone visiting the town, and biking is a great way to get there. Most of the beaches in Tulum are located along the main road, and there are bike racks where you can safely store your bike while you relax on the sand or take a dip in the water.
• Take a bike tour: There are many bike tour companies in Tulum that offer guided tours of the town and its surrounding areas. These tours are a great way to learn more about the local culture and history while also exploring the natural beauty of the area.  Check out this great bike tour.
• Bike to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: For those looking for a longer ride, biking to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is a great option. The reserve is located about 20 km from Tulum and offers stunning natural scenery and wildlife. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited options for food and drinks along the way.

Overall, biking in Tulum is a fun and accessible way to explore the town and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, there's something for everyone in this beautiful destination.

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The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

For those who love the outdoors, Tulum is a paradise. The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is a protected area located just south of Tulum that's home to a variety of flora and fauna. This UNESCO World Heritage site spans over 5,000 square kilometers and includes tropical forests, mangroves, wetlands, and a large portion of the Mesoamerican Reef.

The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including over 350 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, and 45 species of reptiles. Some of the most commonly spotted animals include howler monkeys, crocodiles, and jaguars. Visitors to the reserve can take guided tours to explore the area and learn more about the local ecosystems and wildlife.

One of the most popular ways to explore the reserve is by taking a boat tour. These tours offer visitors the opportunity to see the diverse wildlife that calls the reserve home and to explore the unique ecosystems that make the area so special. Many tours also include stops at a cenote and a lagoon where visitors can swim and snorkel.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve also has a rich cultural history. The reserve is home to several ancient Mayan sites, including the Muyil Ruins, which date back to the 4th century BCE. These ruins offer visitors a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization and its relationship with the natural environment. The best way to get there and enjoy its fullest is by booking an experience.

The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is a truly unique and special destination that's well worth a visit for anyone traveling to Tulum. Its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history make it a must-see for those interested in learning more about the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the Caribbean coast.

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Day trips from Tulum

Tulum is a wonderful destination in its own right, but there are also many exciting day trips that visitors can take to explore the surrounding area. Here are a few of the best day trips from Tulum:

• ‍Chichen Itza: This ancient Mayan city is one of the most popular day trips from Tulum, and for good reason. The site features a range of well-preserved structures, including the famous El Castillo pyramid, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The trip to Chichen Itza takes about 2 hours each way, but it's definitely worth it for those interested in Mayan history.
• Coba: Located about an hour's drive from Tulum, Coba is another ancient Mayan city that's worth visiting. The site features a network of stone causeways and structures, including the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan, which visitors can climb for breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.
• Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: As mentioned above, this protected area is located just south of Tulum and is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, and crocodiles. Visitors can take a boat tour through the reserve, which includes stops at a cenote and a lagoon where they can swim and snorkel.
• Akumal: This small beach town is located about 30 minutes from Tulum and is known for its sea turtles. Visitors can snorkel with the turtles in their natural habitat or relax on the beautiful beaches.
• Valladolid: This charming colonial town is located about 2 hours from Tulum and is a great spot for a day trip. Visitors can explore the colorful streets and historic buildings, including the San Gervasio Church and the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena.

These are just a few of the many day trips that visitors can take from Tulum. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, there's something for everyone within easy reach of this beautiful destination.

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Rainy day in Tulum? Consider an in-home SPA experience

Unwind and treat yourself to an in-home massage experience in Tulum, or plan a relaxing spa day with your partner, courtesy of the best therapists in the Riviera Maya from Zen to Go. Their team has a rigorous selection process to ensure that you receive only the most qualified therapists with at least 3 years of experience in leading wellness centers.

Select your preferred massage type, duration, date, and time, and their therapists arrive fully equipped to provide you with a top-notch spa experience in the comfort of your own Airbnb or hotel. Booking online is easy directly on their website at www.zentogo.com.mx or their iOS and Android app.

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Our conclusion on this beloved city

Tulum offers a wide range of experiences and activities that are sure to please any visitor. From its stunning beaches and rich cultural history to its delicious food scene and vibrant nightlife, there's something for everyone in this beautiful and unique destination. Whether you're looking to explore ancient ruins, relax on the beach, or party the night away, Tulum has it all.

So there you have it – a list of some of the best things to do in Tulum, Mexico. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends and family, this beautiful destination is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, book your tickets and tours below, and get ready to experience the beauty and magic of Tulum.