Why Go to Tulum
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Tulum is the bohemian-chic jewel of Mexico's Riviera Maya. Over the past decade, this once-sleepy beach town has become a favorite of stylish travelers, with eco-chic boutique hotels, creative restaurants and cocktail bars, while still offering the natural beauty that made it special.
Tulum's crown jewel is its Mayan ruins, perched on a cliff above the turquoise Caribbean, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in Mexico. Swim and snorkel in the area's many cenotes, the crystal-clear freshwater sinkholes, like Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos. Explore the vast Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site of lagoons, mangroves and wildlife, and visit the jungle-covered pyramids at Coba. And of course, there are the beaches, powder-white sand and impossibly blue water, perfect for lazy days.
Tulum now has its own international airport, with nonstop flights from several U.S. cities, and Cancun is about 90 minutes away. I'll help you choose between beachfront boutique hotels and nearby resorts and plan your ruins, cenote and Sian Ka'an excursions.
BEST FOR
Beach lovers, culture seekers, couples and nature enthusiasts
BEST MONTHS
November–April
EXPLORE
Tulum Pueblo has shops and local dining; the beach hotel zone follows a narrow coastal road, while the archaeological site lies near the northeastern coast. Cenotes are scattered inland.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Tulum
North America › Caribbean Coast & Yucatán › Mexico › Quintana Roo
Maya heritage, Caribbean beaches and cenote adventures
Historical & Heritage
Ancient
Jungle
Wellness
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Do not assume beaches or cenotes have unrestricted access; confirm entrance rules and environmental protections.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Arrive early with water and check official admission arrangements.
Tulum Archaeological Zone
Maya ruins stand on coastal cliffs above turquoise Caribbean water.
Check beach access and seaweed conditions.
Playa Paraíso
Scenic Caribbean beach near the archaeological zone.
Shower as required and follow cenote conservation rules.
Gran Cenote
Freshwater limestone swimming site popular for snorkeling.
Cave diving requires specialized training and authorized guides.
Cenote Dos Ojos
Famous flooded cave system with guided snorkeling and diving activities.
Use approved local operators and plan for rough access roads.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Protected coastal wetlands and marine habitats south of Tulum.
A luxury bayfront all-inclusive resort north of Tulum with a secluded coastal setting and wellness amenities.
Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, an All-Inclusive Experience
Tankah / Chemuyil coast
All-Inclusive · Beach
A spacious beachfront all-inclusive resort with multiple pools and dining options along the Riviera Maya.
Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort
Tankah / Chemuyil coast
All-Inclusive · Family · Beach
An upscale boutique beachfront retreat known for its natural-material design and intimate atmosphere.
Be Tulum
Tulum Beach / South Hotel Zone
Boutique · Beach
A relaxed boutique beachfront stay near beach clubs, restaurants and the Caribbean shoreline.
La Zebra Colibri Boutique Hotels
Tulum Beach / South Hotel Zone
Boutique · Beach
An intimate luxury beach hotel on a sheltered bay north of Tulum’s busiest beach district.
Jashita Hotel
Soliman Bay
Boutique · Beach
Treehouse-style adults-only villas made from natural materials, with sweeping sea views.
Azulik Tulum
Tulum Beach Road
Adults-Only · Boutique · Beach
A boutique beachfront estate on a quiet bay between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
Hotel Esencia
Xpu-Ha
Boutique · Beach
An all-inclusive with kids' clubs on a calm, sandy beach near the Tulum ruins.
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Tulum coast
All-Inclusive · Family · Beach
A boho, wellness-focused boutique hotel on the beach with yoga and creative dining.
Nômade Tulum
Tulum Beach Road
Boutique · Beach
A simple, eco-friendly hotel on the beach with good value for the area.
Dos Ceibas Tulum
Tulum Beach Road / near Sian Ka'an
Value · Boutique · Beach
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Tulum
High 85°F · Low 70°F · Rain 4.3 in
Day of the Dead celebrations, and the dry season returns.
November through April often brings pleasant conditions; sargassum and storms can affect beach experiences seasonally.
Best Times to Visit Tulum
WHEN TO GO
06
Ruins and Sian Ka'an
Protected-area excursions may require permits, guides and special vehicles; confirm current access.
05
Hotel Zone Cycling
Some corridors have bike paths, but traffic, darkness and heat require caution.
04
Rental Cars
A car helps with dispersed cenotes and archaeological sites, but parking can be restrictive.
03
Taxis and Transfers
Prearrange licensed transport for hotel-zone or cenote visits; agree on rates before boarding.
02
ADO Coaches
Scheduled buses serve major regional corridors; confirm your departure terminal and destination stop.
01
Cancún and Tulum Airports
Check whether your flight lands at Cancún or Tulum International; the transfer distances and routes differ.
Taxis and pre-arranged transfers serve most visitors; traffic can be slow along the beach road. Bicycles work for some shorter trips, but plan around heat and road conditions.
Getting Around Tulum