This Is Why We Can’t Stop Falling in Love with Tulum

Where To Stay

What To Do

Tulum is the beating heart of the Riviera Maya. This young bohemian town went from being a quiet beachside village a decade ago to the hippest spot in the Mexican Caribbean. Cool, artsy, good-looking, eco-conscious, Tulum is world-famous partly thanks to Instagram. But millions of posts and likes on social media can’t begin telling the full story. 

This tropical paradise is located at the southern end of the Riviera Maya, about a 90-minute drive south of the city of Cancun. Its white-sand beaches that go for miles have become the perfect setting for the culturally diverse, eco-friendly community that brings the whole region to life.

Among breathtaking art galleries, effervescent nightlife, and multi-national gastronomy, you will certainly not run out of things to discover. But with all that’s on offer, it’s easy to get lost and miss the best spots. Let us help you navigate the unending possibilities. These are the main reasons why we keep falling in love with Tulum.

White sands and turquoise bliss

Striking, seductive, or secluded, each of Tulum’s gorgeous beaches has something that makes it unique. Playa Ruinas is one of our favorites. It is perhaps the most iconic, as it lies just below the rocky cliff upon which the ancient Maya built their only city that overlooks the sea.

Just a few hundred meters away, you will find Playa Paraiso, one of Tulum’s most Instagram-ready spots. This fabulous location, surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery, is a gathering spot for young travelers. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants, guided tours, and even snorkeling excursions to the nearby coral reef.

Venturing off the beaten path in Tulum is always a good idea. You can head to Las Palmas, a secluded little spot that’s perfect for a long undisturbed swim away from vendors and visitors. But if you are looking for a genuine off-the-grid refuge, the Secret Beach, located deep inside the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, is the place to go. Keep in mind this hideout is about a one-hour bike ride away from central Tulum. But if you’re ready to brave the distance, you’ll be rewarded with true solitude in a seaside wonderland.

A foodie’s paradise

Tulum is a gastronomic dreamland. Fresh local ingredients are transformed by the diverse, multicultural community to create a heaven of edible bliss. The culinary scene is virtually endless. Traditional Mexican food, vegan delights, exquisite fine-dining, international cuisine, hidden kitchens in the jungle… you name it. Whatever you are looking for, your palate is guaranteed to become one of your main tools to explore all this city has in store. 

Art by the sea

At its core, Tulum is a town of beauty and inspiration. Its romantic setting and charming personality attract all sorts of creative people from around the globe. Naturally, music and art events are a common feature, with several world-class art showings and renowned music festivals occurring throughout the year. 

Perhaps the best example is Art With Me. Taking place each November, this festival integrates wellness workshops, concerts, impressive art installations, and top local and international cuisine. Also, the city has a variety of galleries with permanent exhibits and events taking place all year round. Regardless of the time of your visit, you will surely find an upcoming exhibition or a mind-bending art museum to feed your imagination.

A gateway to the Maya jungle

One of Tulum’s most precious gifts is its breathtaking nature. But not only its marvelous turquoise coast. Travel a few kilometers inland, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get intimately acquainted with the Maya jungle. 

Hop on a bike and roam around the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, one of the most important protected areas in Mexico. Or drive a few kilometers further to explore the multicolored Kaan Luum lagoon and go cenote hopping. You can even come into close contact with monkeys and other wildlife of this vibrant ecosystem at Punta Laguna. Wherever you decide to go, the precious forest will inspire and surprise you with its secrets.

The guardian of Maya heritage

Centuries ago, this area was one of the capitals of the Maya civilization. Today it is home to several jaw-dropping archaeological treasures and a privileged place to learn more about this fascinating culture. 

Cobá and Muyil are ancient ceremonial sites reclaimed by the jungle, each with a pyramid-like temple that dominates the green landscape. Then there is Tulum. The unmissable fortress that gives the region its name and that is famous for being the only pre-Hispanic city built on the Caribbean coastline. 

Tulum is a rich and captivating land of wonders. We couldn't possibly cover everything it has to offer in a single article. So stay tuned as we explore together one of Mexico's most stunning destinations.