Welcome to the Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide! Let me start off by saying Tulum is a VIBE. Every place I visited was perfectly curated, trendy, artistic, and unlike anything else I’ve ever seen. When traveling to Tulum in March 2021, I shared some of my trip live via Instagram stories and since I’ve had many people reach out asking for recommendations on things to do, places to eat, what to pack, where to stay and of course those Insta-worthy photo locations. Cut to me finally getting around to write this blog post for ya’ll that includes everything you need to know about traveling to Tulum.
Let’s get into the fun stuff… Tulum is boho chic town with stunning ocean views, some of the best food you’ll ever have, mixed with beach clubs, and endless Insta-Worthy photo ops. It’s the perfect tropical vacation and a no brainer why it’s rated as one of the top travel destinations. I seriously love Tulum so much, it’s probably one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. And ya’ll I travel a lot! Needless to say I have nothing but great reviews for the town, my experience and ambiance while visiting. I do want to mention safety for women or anyone traveling alone. I felt extremely safe throughout my entire trip, enough so, I would travel here alone.
Be sure to check out my Tulum Vlog here!
Now get ready to scroll & pin. Without further ado… here is my Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide.
Neighborhoods of Tulum
- North Tulum Beach – This is the area closest to the Tulum Ruins. Less busy than the south side of the beach and where us peasants hang out (totally joking)! This area still has some fun and trendy beach clubs, restaurants and hotels but the prices are more affordable than traveling down south a few miles.
- South Tulum Beach – This is the more trendy side of the beach with countless luxury hotels and boutiques with perfect beach views. Prices for everything are double or more here. You are definitely paying for the ambiance. But most would say well worth it.
- Downtown Tulum – AKA the pueblo and if I am being honest the area I spent the most time and really enjoyed. It offers a more cultural experience than the touristy beach areas.
- Aldea Zama – A single strand of newer developments of luxury living and shops located between the beach and downtown Tulum.
Here’s a map to help you get your bearings.
Where to Stay in Tulum
Your budget and the type of traveler you are will play a major role in deciding where to stay when visiting Tulum. I’m a boujee on a budget type traveler and if you’re like me you’ll opt to stay in downtown Tulum or Aldea Zama. Both of these locations are affordable options that include the upscale boho chic Tulum vibes without a hefty price tag.
$$$ – $$$$ – Luxury budget recommendations on the beach
- Azulik Resort a one of a kind eco friendly experience. It’s tropical villa in the jungle with the beach only steps away.
- Casa Malca a luxury hotel with a surplus of top restaurants and spectacular views of the Caribbean sea.
- Maria Del Mar Tulum a boutique hotel with exquisite cuisine, trendy boho décor and ocean views.
$$ – Boujee on a budget recommendations in downtown Tulum & Aldea Zama
- My Exact Airbnb– Honestly, this is a gem! I loved everything about this place from the location, the grounds, the pool to the décor in our Airbnb. The best part is, it’s super affordable!
- PAX APT – I loved staying in the La Valeta area (small neighborhood in downtown Tulum) there were numerous chic and aesthetically pleasing restaurants, luxury apartments, and coffee shops within walking or biking distance.
- Suk-Ha in La Veleta – An adorable Airbnb in this up and coming trendy area in Tulum.
- Luxury Eco-Studio – Super chic and affordable condo in the heart of La Valeta.
- Tulum Apt – Another trendy room option in the Aldea Zama area (closer to the beach but still affordable).
$ – Ultra Budget Friendly Recommendations
- Lum Hostel – Cute & cozy hostel located in downtown Tulum.
- Che Tulum – The 9th most desired hostel in the world! This super chic hostel offers many add on experiences, anything from beach clubs to yoga on the beach to it’s travelers.
My Airbnb in Downtown Tulum 
My Airbnb in Downtown Tulum
Insta-Worthy Photo Spots
Matcha Mama
📍 Quintana Roo 15 470 Zona Hotelera • 77780, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Probably the most iconic smoothie shack in Tulum known for thee infamous swing setup and surfboard sign that reads “I love you so matcha“.
⭐TIP – Matcha Mama has another location in downtown Tulum with the same surfboard and swing setup as the original location in South Tulum beach. I prefer the downtown location over the beach location. In my opinion, it has a cuter setup, is 10x easier to get to, has plenty of parking and there are many trendy places nearby.
You can swing by to snap the perfect Insta-Worthy picture any time. I wouldn’t anticipate a long line at either location. Be sure to have an acai bowl if you stop in!
Original South Tulum Beach Location 
Downtown Tulum Location
Follow That Dream Sign
📍 Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila km 8.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Likely one of the most Instagrammable places in Tulum. In all honesty, it’s just a random sign on the side of the road in south Tulum beach. It’s located just in front of Lolita Lolita boutique. But there is something about it that screams Instagram and makes you want to stop and take an unforgettable picture with it. Did you even go to Tulum without a picture here? 😉
⭐TIP – Just north of the sign (on the same side of the street) is a super cute wooden door with palm leaves surrounding it which makes a perfect photo opt. By visiting this location you’ll get two Insta-Worthy photos that are sure to spice up your feed! Both photo locations are free to visit and not tied to or inside a business. They are merely tourist attractions on the road.
Tulum Swing Sign
📍 Km. 233+400, México 307, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
This is a new installation located right off Highway 307, you’ll see it on your way into Tulum from Cancun. For easy directions type Caleta Tankah into your GPS to get you closest to the sign. It’s just across the street. You can’t miss it! This location is quickly becoming very a popular photo spot in Tulum. The colors of the sign are vibrant and normally the U’s in the word Tulum have a swing in them. The one time I visit, of course, the swings had been taken down. I would expect nothing less, clearly, the world hates me. haha I definitely hope you have better luck than me when you visit. I’m sending you all good vibes!
⭐TIP – Because this installation has such easy access to the road it is easy to stop in, quickly snap a few pictures, and be on your merry way.
Raw Love Cafe
📍 Tulum Beach, 77500 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The largest and most intricate art installation I’ve ever seen and a must see if you’re ever in Tulum! This was the one photo location that I refused to miss on my trip. I made it a point to come here as early as possible to ensure I got THE PIC.
⭐TIP – Like me try to visit as early in the morning as you possibly can and visit on a weekday vs the weekend to avoid waiting. I’ve seen many TikTok videos with people lined up waiting to take a photo at this location. No thanks! We arrived about 8:30am and as we were leaving a line started to form. If I could do it again, I would’ve tried to arrive at sunrise. I felt rushed as people started to line up and would’ve loved more time.
Tulum Ruins
📍 Carretera Federal, Cancun – Chetumal Km 230, 307, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
I don’t think most would classify this as an Insta-Worthy photo location. But after taking a look at my photos (below) I’m hoping to change your mind. The ruins is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Yucatan Peninsula, it would be a shame to miss. The views from the cliffs are stunning, who doesn’t love palm tress and a turquoise sea backdrop for photos? No one!
Tulum Ruins 
Tulum Ruins
Mia Tulum Beach Club
📍 Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km 7.5, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
You’ll have TWO insta-worthy photo ops at this location. One at the entrance which is absolutely stunning and the second is the cutest cebollita out on the beach. Here you’ll capture ocean views as your backdrop. Hum, yes please!
⭐TIP – there is a $40 USD food & drink requirement while visiting their beach club. Well worth it! We had a private cabana, excellent service and delicious drinks.
Things To Do In Tulum
Visit Tulum Archaeological Zone
📍 Carretera Federal, Cancun – Chetumal Km 230, 307, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
This is the official name for the the Tulum ruins and visiting is a no brainer. You can’t make it all the way to Tulum without visiting the ruins. The entrance is about $5 per person. Parking is FREE or you can ride your bike to the entrance or grab a cab. You can explore the ruins and be mesmerized by the stunning ocean views along a cliff.
⭐TIP – I recommend visiting between 1-3pm this is the last 1-2 hours before closing (they close at 3pm). During this time the crowds have left and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the grounds all to yourself (or mostly to yourself).
Visit Cenotes
Swimming in cenotes was the most fun thing to do in Tulum. We visited five over two separate days. I’d highly recommend visiting as many cenotes on your trip as time permits. I’d personally add a full day to visit new/different cenotes to my itinerary. No need to purchase tickets ahead of time, you can pay the entrance fee on the spot. But be sure to carry pesos as most places will not take card.
I personally booked an Airbnb experience to visit three cenotes in Chemuyil. This adorable town is only a 15-20 minute drive west of Tulum. The tour is given by locals and the experience includes bikes, a guided tour and snacks. The tour guides were amazing, funny, and knowledgeable of their hometown. This was probably one of the best experiences of my trip. I’d 10/10 recommend. The cost was $40 per person not including transportation to Chemuyil.
⭐TIP – do not apply or wear sunblock when visiting cenotes. Most places will make you rinse off before entering if you do.
Day or Overnight trip to Playa De Carmen
My only regret is stopping here for only half a day. I wish I had one full day or an overnight trip to Playa De Carmen. There is a huge nightlife scene here and let’s be honest you can day drink so I guess there is a huge day-life scene here too! 😉 Let me tell you people get WILD! Playa de Carmen is heavily populated with tourists, but that’s because there’s so much to see and do.
There is a main drag with countless bars, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, local artisans, and hotels where you can see, do, buy and eat just about anything your heart desires. Playa De Carmen is known for it’s gorgeous beach front views that are worth making the trek for. It’s located about an hour (south) from Cancun which is about half way to Tulum.
⭐TIP – If you can’t make a full day/overnight trip to Playa de Carmen you could easily stop in on your way from Tulum to Cancun to catch your flight. Even just a couple of hours to walk around and grab some food would be well worth the pit stop.
If I am being completely transparent, it’s worth visiting if it’s your first time, however, it’s not as impressive as Machu Picchu. What can I say, I’m a bit spoiled when it comes to the Seven Wonders of the World. The trek to Chichén Itzá is a long one. It’s about a 3 hour drive from Cancun.
⭐TIP – If possible take a red eye to Cancun. This will ensure you land as early in the day as possible giving you ample time to pick up a rental car and begin your drive to Chichén Itzá. After your short visit, approximately 1-2 hours, you’ll have plenty of time to drive to Tulum the same day. Traveling here on day one will be an extremely long day, but it’s time efficient and it logistically makes the most sense.
Day Trip to Coba Ruins + More Cenotes
📍 Carretera Federal Tulum 307, 77793 Cobá, Q.R., Mexico
Visiting the Coba Ruins was such a fun day trip, it’s only about an hour drive (west) from Tulum. Unfortunately, we were unable to walk to the top of the Coba pyramid on our trip in March 2021. Which was such a bummer because I’ve heard views from the top are epic! I’d personally skip this day trip until Covid restrictions are lifted. This way you are sure to get the full Coba Pyramid experience. Be sure to check out blog posts or the Coba website for updated information. Personally, I think it’s a lot of walking and time to drive out there if you can’t make it to the top.
If you do decide to make the day trip, you can’t skip out on visiting three amazing cenotes nearby. Tamacha-Ha, Choo-Ha and Multum-Ha are just a 10 minute drive from the ruins. I’d have to say Tanhach-Ha was my favorite by far! You climb down a wooden staircase about three stories from my recollection to reach the water below. The cenote is dark inside (it’s underground), the water is chilly and there are tons of bats flying around. Visiting Tanhach-ha was one of the most epic adventures in Tulum. Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for a full Tulum vlog (coming soon) that will showcase this epic cenote along with everything encompassing the Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide.
Take a Yoga Class
📍 calle 7 sur Entre 14, X 16, La Veleta, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Tulum is such a spiritual place, it’s hard not to take in the culture and activities while visiting. I stopped into Sonido Del Mar on my last day in Tulum. Lucky for me it was just a five minute bike ride from my Airbnb. I had been eyeing this place the entire week and decided I needed to stop in. Sonido Del Mar is actually a boutique hotel that with a yoga loft. The loft is covered but has 360 degree views from the top. The instructor spoke English & Spanish and the cost was $15 for the session.
Where To Eat in Tulum
Probably my favorite thing to do in Tulum was try as many new restaurants as we could. Most places were affordable at ~$40 or less for two with a few that were extra budget friendly at under $15 for two. Here is a list of my favorites in downtown Tulum from my trip.
DelCielo
📍 Satélite Sur 5, Tulum Centro, Centro, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The best and most memorable meal from my trip to Tulum. I ordered the chilaquiles and they are the BEST chilaquiles I’ve EVER had. Mind you, I order chilaquiles 9/10 anytime I have brunch. Some would consider me chilaquiles connoisseur. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful. Not to mention the entire place is such a vibe from the seating to the dinner wear. I’d go out of my way to eat here again if ever in Tulum.
Bonita
📍 Calle Beta Sur, Tulum Centro, centro, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The stinking cutest burger joint that had the most memorable burgers & drinks. I follow them on Instagram. I just love their story and clearly their burgers & drinks.
Antojitos La Chiapaneca
📍 Av. Tulum S/N Col. Centro Manzana 6 77780 Tulum, Quintana Roo Mexico
Seriously amazing street tacos, tortas, and sopes at super affordable prices. Two of us had full meals with drinks for under $15.
Canova
📍 Calle 7 Sur S/N, La Veleta, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Probably the second best meal of my trip. The food was delicious and memorable we returned a few days later and ordered the exact same thing! Canova is this cute little Italian place off the beaten path. Great service, great food and wine! I’d highly recommend.
Restaurante Estrada
📍 Calle Gama Ote, Calle Asteroide, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Located just a few blocks from the heart of downtown Tulum. If you are a seafood lover this is the place! They have a different menu for lunch and dinner based on what they catch each day. The food was fresh and delicious. We were lucky enough to stumble across this gem.
La Estancia Jujeña
📍 Av. Tulum 83, Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Such a gem located on the corner of the main drag in downtown Tulum. The food was 10/10. I ordered the empanadas and would order them again in a heartbeat! After dinner walk down Calle Centauro Sur to enjoy live music, local artisans, and people watching.
⭐TIP – You can drive here, there is plenty of street parking nearby.
Panna e Cioccolato
📍 Av. Tulum 72 77780 Tulum, Quintana Roo
My favorite ice cream shop! We probably stopped here for a cone 6 out of the 10 days we stayed in Tulum. It was that good! My favorite flavor was key lime pie. Drooling just thinking about it.
Burrito Amor
📍 Av. Tulum Mz 05-Lote 03, Tulum Centro, Centro, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
A trendy boho chic place with supper affordable burritos. They even have vegan and gluten free options!
Pollo de Bronco
📍 Avenida Tulum s/n, Centro, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Full disclosure this place is a hole in the wall but that’s how you know it’s gonna be good! Highly underrated with some seriously delicious chicken at insanely affordable prices. We had a whole chicken meal for under $10. If you are a fan of El Pollo Loco you’re in luck, this chicken is similar but tastes 10x better.
El Asadero
📍 Av. Satelite Nte. Mz 23 Lt.5 entre Sagitario y, Calle 2 Ote, Centro, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
One of the nicer meals from my trip. The name of the place should give the type of food away, clearly they are known for grilled menu items like steak, chicken and seafood.
⭐TIP – There is the cutest swing and Tulum sign setup directly across the street from the entrance of the restaurant.
Cetli
📍 Carretera 109 Tulum Coba Km 2.5, Villas Tulum, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
This is not your traditional Mexican restaurant. This is a one of a kind experience with a unique twist on Mexican cuisine. The location is definitely off the beaten path, but still close enough to the city just on the outskirts of downtown Tulum. It feels like you’re in someone’s kitchen which makes this an intimate dining experience. I personally think this is a perfect date night meal and atmosphere. Bonus anyone who eats here will get a snack board appetizer that is full of delicious little treats.
⭐TIP – Bring pesos they do not accept card! We stopped in and had to drive back to town for a stop at an ATM. So worth it! Food, drinks & experience is 10/10. I’d highly recommend visiting this gem.
What To Pack For Tulum
Ladies you’ll want to look chic yet somehow effortless while visiting Tulum. You’ll notice everyone walking around looking as if they just stepped off the runway. The women were dressed to kill! Their vibe is beachy, tropical, boho, yet sophisticated and chic.
Fortunately, I was able to pack everything I needed for 10 days in just a carry on. If I can do it, you can too! Most of the items you’ll be packing are light weight fabrics, swimsuits and some sandals. Trust me when I say all you’ll need is a carry-on and some packing cubes (they help with organization) for a 10-14 day trip to Tulum.
Packing list recommendations
- Swimsuits – I’d higly recommend one for each day of your visit. Be sure to also pack a few functional swimsuits for exploring the cenotes along with some show stopping swimsuits for hitting the beach clubs or walking around south Tulum Beach.
- Swimsuit Coverups – I honestly wish I had more than one coverup with me. I would’ve worn one every day. Coverups are so functional and stylish in Tulum as you’ll likely be in a swimsuit more than half the time.
- Sandals – Bring a minimum of two pairs with you. One functional pair for bike riding or visiting cenotes (p.s. you’ll likely get them wet). A second pair that are comfortable for walking yet chic enough to dress up and down. If you can fit a third in your suitcase I’d suggest a pair of espadrilles, wedges or block heels. You won’t need anything too fancy.
- Boho Hat – An essential for a tropical vacation. Plus it will come in handy for pictures and shade.
- Sunglasses – Pack at least 1-2 pairs; the sun is strong and we don’t want any squinting (it causes wrinkles). I’d recommended packing a gold or black pair.
- Dresses – I’d say 1-3 will be enough. Be sure one of them is a LBD for a fancy night out along with a few day dresses.
- Matching Set – Pack at least one to wear together and again later to mix and match with other items in your suitcase.
- Shorts – You can’t travel to Tulum without at least one pair . The weather is hot and humid so you’ll want to be comfortable and functional.
- Flowy Skirt – Nothing says tropical destination like a flowy skirt!
- Tanks – Don’t forget neutral colored tank tops to wear with the bottoms of your matching set, shorts and skirts.
- Handbag – You’ll only need one for this trip. I’d suggest a neutral crossbody bag that is small but big enough for essentials. Every girl has one!
- Jewelry – You can’t leave for Tulum without some standout pieces to finish your look. I’d suggest some gold pieces and a bold pair of earrings.
I’ve rounded up some of my favorite items for a Tulum vaction.
And that’s a wrap! I hope you enjoyed my Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide and found it to be helpful as you plan your dream vacation. Be sure to tag me on IG if you visit! It would literally make my day.
PS you can check out a full list of my past travel guides and Insta-Worthy photo locations here.
Happy traveling!!!
