Overview of Tulum, Mexico
Picture this... you are lounging by the ocean, sipping a margarita and soaking in the Mexican sunshine as the sounds of the ocean lap quietly beside you. Imagine a white sand beach with palm trees that actually turn to see you, the smell of the salty air, and the taste of the cold, ice-cold beer or exotic cocktails.
Sounds like paradise, doesn't it? Then you're ready to learn about one of Mexico's most sought-after destinations. Tulum, Mexico, is known for its archaeological sites, Mayan culture, and nightlife and is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico.
Located on the Yucatan peninsula and about a 1.5-2 hours’ drive from Cancun, Tulum has become a hotspot for tourists who want to experience an authentic Mayan culture while still enjoying modern amenities. It's best known for its eco-friendly resorts that offer yoga retreats, scuba diving excursions, and other activities like sailing lessons.
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– Spanish
– English
In Tulum, the language spoken by natives is Spanish. If you plan on visiting Tulum, you should have at least a basic understanding of Spanish. However, you'll find that most people in the tourism industry can communicate with you in English too.
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– Mexican Pesos, MX$
– US Dollars, USD$
You can use Mexican pesos, but you can also use US Dollars. It's convenient to have some pesos on hand so you can make small purchases at shops and restaurants without paying the higher exchange rate associated with using foreign currency.
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– November and December
– February - May
Things To Know Before Visiting Tulum
Tulum is a stunning Mexican beach destination famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Its natural beauty, climate, culture, and food will captivate you. What should you know before you go? What should you see? Where should you stay? We've got answers! Let's learn things you need to know before visiting Tulum first.
Tulum, Quintna Roo, Mexico 7 Day Weather Forecast
Take advantage of DEALS by visiting off-season.
Everything tends to be a little more expensive than what you would generally expect in Mexico, especially in Tulum. However, it's possible to visit Tulum on a budget, you should be prepared to see higher prices than in other parts of Mexico for things like meals, taxis, and hotels.
If you plan a trip to Tulum, consider visiting during the off-season. This is the time between August and early December when many hotels offer deals to fill up their rooms. The weather is also milder in the off-season, avoiding the summer heat. Also, you might see a slight decline in transportation fares.
Bike Ride Tour of Tulum
Tulum is a fantastic place to cycle. Renting a bike in Tulum is a great way to get around if you're on a budget. While you might want to take a taxi, why not save a few pesos? Take a bike ride through the streets of Tulum and discover a different side of this fabulous town. You'll learn exciting facts about Tulum's vibrant history when cycling through its streets. Don't forget to get to know some of the town's best bars, restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets. And the best part is, cycling in Tulum is the best way to experience its beautiful beaches without breaking the bank.
Use Local Currency
Many businesses in Tulum accept US dollars and Mexican pesos, which seems incredibly convenient, especially for those visiting from the US. However, if you look at the exchange rates, you'll realize that using dollars means you're paying a massive premium for the same product or service, so stick to pesos.
The savings in currency exchange fees and the lower cost of goods when paying in pesos might make all the difference when you’re on vacation and trying to save the most money you can.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is vital to have before booking a trip - especially to Tulum, where all of the good hospitals are private and require payment before any medical assistance can be given. No one likes to think about getting sick or hurt on vacation, but it's always better to be safe than sorry and worry about forking out a large amount of money for something that could have been easily prevented. With travel insurance, you can rest assured knowing that you and your family are taken care of in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Best Things to Do in Tulum
Tulum is well known for Mayan ruins, cenotes with clear waters, lush jungles, and nightlife. It has experienced massive growth since becoming a popular tourist destination, with hotels and restaurants popping up everywhere. Despite this influx of visitors and money, Tulum has managed to retain its natural beauty and charm—it remains one of the most popular destinations in all of Mexico!
Visit the Mayan Ruins:
Tulum is home to about 30 Mayan ruins, including Chichen Itza, Tulum Mayan Ruins, Ek-Balam Ruins, Coba Ruins, and many others. These sites are popular with tourists because they offer a glimpse into the history of Tulum. You'll get to see some beautiful architecture and learn about ancient Mayan culture.
Green Sea Turtle in Akumal Mexico
Swimming in Akumal
The most popular activity is swimming with turtles in Akumal if you're a wildlife lover. This is a great way to spend an afternoon enjoying the water in Tulum with friends and family. Even if you don't get to swim with a dolphin, watching them jump through hoops as they swim around you is amazing enough!
Spend a Day on the Beach
Tulum is famous for its white-sand beaches and clear blue water, making it an ideal vacation spot for those who want to relax and enjoy themselves in a beautiful setting. Lounge on one of the Tulum beaches, such as Secret beach, to enjoy a wonderful time with your partner.
If you're feeling like getting some fresh air and dancing under the
stars with friends, head down to the beach for an unforgettable night out! You'll find plenty of spots on Tulum beaches where you can lounge in the sand and enjoy the sunshine, including Playa Paraíso, which is just a short drive away. Or Visit South Playa, where you'll find plenty of resorts and hotels.
The Grande Cenote in Tulum Mexico
Dive into a Cenote:
If you're looking for something different, jump into one of the magnificent cenotes. This can be especially fun if you're traveling with friends who want something new!
The Gran Cenote is a popular attraction in Tulum. It's one of the largest cenotes in Mexico and offers everything from jumping platforms to snorkeling opportunities. You can even take a guided tour through this stunning natural wonder!
This famous cenote is only a short drive away from downtown Tulum. It's known for its crystal-clear waters and impressive limestone formations—don't miss it!
Bar Hop in Downtown Tulum
If you're a nightcrawler and want to explore Tulum’s nightlife, you can choose from several bars and clubs in downtown Tulum. Downtown Tulum is where people gather at night (and during the day), so you'll have no trouble finding somewhere fun to hang out with friends round the clock.
From small dive bars that play jazz music to larger clubs with DJs playing electronic music, there's something for everyone. This is also an excellent place to find restaurants serving great food and drinks at affordable prices.
Downtown has plenty of bars where visitors can enjoy an authentic mezcal or margarita while chatting with locals about what makes this place so special!
Stroll, Shop, and Eat in Tulum:
Spend some time walking around this charming town before exploring other sites nearby. You'll find plenty of shops selling organic fruits and veggies, local goods like handcrafted products, and clothes. Visit Mercado Maya Tulum to learn about culture, or go to Tulum Beach Road, where you'll find many restaurants serving traditional Mexican meals (and drinks!). Plan a visit to Tulum Bazar for local street food and buy cute gifts for your loved ones.
Take a Boat Tour:
Tulum has several boat tours that take visitors out into the lagoon, where they'll see birds, fish, and other wildlife and some of the local Mayan ruins and cenotes. These trips are inexpensive but can be very fun if you want to get away from the beach for a bit and see more of the area's natural beauty.
Take a Tulum Tour:
Consider booking a guided tour if you want to see all the best sights in Tulum without planning anything yourself. These tours tend to be more expensive than planning things on your own, but they can be worth it, considering you'll get to explore most of the city with less hassle.
Top Resorts in Tulum
You're ready for your dream vacation, but where will you stay? Whether you're after a romantic getaway or a trip with friends, Tulum has something to offer everyone. When it comes to finding the best resorts in Tulum, the options are endless. Let us help you decide which option is right for you.
From all-inclusive hotels to adults-only resorts, Tulum has waterfront accommodations that are sure to meet your needs. We've rounded up some of our favorite resorts in Tulum—from all-inclusive to boutique—for your perusal.
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum All-Inclusive Resort
If you’re looking for a resort that offers it all, look no further than the Bahia Principe Grand Tulum. The Bahia Principe Grand Tulum All-Inclusive Resort is one of the top resorts in Tulum, Mexico. The resort offers a variety of activities for guests to participate in, including beach volleyball, kayaking, and snorkeling. With an incredible spa and a huge pool area, this resort is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind.
This all-inclusive resort features the perfect mixture of first-class amenities, activities, dining, and nightlife. This resort is surrounded by incredible natural landscapes and is located in Akumal in the greater Tulum region. Guests are surrounded by countless splendid amenities as they enjoy a rich and vibrant culture filled with Mayan tradition, history, and leisure activities.
The Bahia Principe Grand Tulum is the prime all-inclusive vacation destination for an unforgettable, luxurious vacation experience. In addition to Italian, Japanese, seafood, Mexican, Italian, and Japanese restaurants, there are several others. Sip on cocktails as you dance the night away at the large nightclub, or catch the latest blockbuster at the resort's movie theatre. This resort also offers a casino, water park, fitness center, tennis, and so on.
Gramercy Tulum
Nestled in the historic fishing village of Tulum, Mexico, Gramercy Tulum is the most luxe spot for sun, sea, and surf. It offers a stylish array of oceanfront villas, each with a private terrace and infinity pool. The Tulum Gramercy Hotel offers visitors an exclusive health-conscious dining experience.
While your experience has been unforgettable in its own way, that is not all. You can enjoy fresh meats, premium cocktails, detox juices, and world-class sunsets at the beach club. Guests at the Tulum can also hold a wedding reception.
Gramercy Tulum is the ultimate place for soul-searching, and with yoga and boxing classes available, you’ll be able to shed some stress as well.
Ahau Tulum
Ahau is a luxury boutique hotel in Tulum, Mexico, designed with eco-conscious travelers in mind. The resort is located just a few meters away from the beach. The hotel's location is in a perfect spot, allowing guests to have a sublime view of the Caribbean Sea. Ahau Tulum is centered on the Mayan theme of balance and features uniquely decorated cabanas and huts. Its art-filled courtyards and stunning outdoor spaces encourage relaxation, and its incredible beach is the perfect place to escape for a moment of pure serenity.
Ahau is a delightful haven for those who adore the sea. This a retreat for those who want to enjoy a vacation in a beautiful location with a tropical ambiance and a healthy lifestyle. A place that offers an array of services, including yoga, sunrise meditation, and fresh organic food.
Travel to Tulum & Riviera Maya
Tulum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. It has the perfect combination of history, culture, and beauty, making it a must-visit place for those who want to experience true Mexican culture. With a clear and warm tropical climate, the area gives its visitors unparalleled beauty, romance, and relaxation. This is one of Mexico’s most laid-back towns and has an eco-conscious, vibe.
