Tulum a week

The iconic Tulum beach boasts powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic Mayan ruins perched on a cliff. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and capturing stunning photos. Be aware of sargassum seaweed, which can vary in presence throughout the year.

• Visit early to avoid crowds and find the best spots.
• Bring your own towels and water.

A popular beachfront spot known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent cocktails. It's a great place to enjoy lunch with your feet in the sand and soak in the Tulum beach vibe.

• Try their signature ceviche and margaritas.
• Live music often plays in the evenings.

Experience a magical evening at Gitano, a mezcal bar and restaurant set in a jungle clearing. With its atmospheric lighting, live music, and artisanal cocktails, it offers a unique and romantic dining and drinking experience.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
• The jungle ambiance is best after dark.

Explore the remarkably preserved Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This ancient walled city offers stunning views and insight into Mayan civilization. The El Castillo pyramid is a highlight.

• Go as early as possible to beat the heat and crowds.
• Wear comfortable shoes; the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring water and sunscreen.

A popular and picturesque cenote featuring a mix of open-air swimming and cave diving. Its clear, cool waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming, with unique rock formations and stalactites to admire.

• Rent snorkel gear on-site if needed.
• Life vests are available and recommended for less confident swimmers.

A casual, no-frills taco joint right on the beach, famous for its authentic and affordable tacos. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch after your cenote visit, offering a true taste of local flavor.

• Try the 'pescado' (fish) tacos.
• It's a great spot to people-watch and enjoy the beach vibe.

An acclaimed restaurant serving wood-fired, locally sourced dishes in a beautiful jungle setting. Known for its fresh ingredients and creative preparations, it's a culinary highlight of Tulum.

• Reservations are essential and can be difficult to secure; book months in advance.
• The menu changes daily based on fresh market availability.

Explore the vibrant heart of Tulum, away from the beach zone. This area offers local shops, artisan crafts, colorful street art, and authentic eateries. It's a great place to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs.

• Wander down 'La Veleta' for street art and boutique shops.
• Look for local artisans selling handmade jewelry and textiles.

Part of a vast underwater cave system, Cenote Dos Ojos offers incredible snorkeling and diving experiences in its crystal-clear waters. The name means 'Two Eyes' referring to its two large, round cenotes connected by a passageway.

• This cenote is excellent for beginners in cavern diving.
• The water temperature is consistently cool and refreshing.

A charming and photogenic cafe known for its healthy bowls, smoothies, and, of course, matcha. It's a popular spot for a refreshing and nutritious snack, with a distinct bohemian decor.

• Great for Instagram photos with its swings and vibrant setting.
• Offers vegan and gluten-free options.

Set in a lush jungle garden, Arca offers a refined dining experience with a focus on contemporary Mexican cuisine. They utilize local ingredients and open-fire cooking for a unique and flavorful meal.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Enjoy the romantic ambiance created by the jungle setting and ambient lighting.

Participate in a yoga or meditation class at one of Tulum's renowned wellness centers. Yoga Shala offers various styles in beautiful, tranquil settings, perfect for rejuvenating the mind and body.

• Check their schedule in advance for class times and styles.
• Bring your own mat if you prefer, though mats are usually provided.

Experience a bohemian-chic atmosphere at Nomade, offering healthy and organic cuisine. Their restaurant is a beautiful space to enjoy breakfast or lunch, often with a focus on sustainable ingredients.

• The decor is very Instagrammable.
• They often host wellness retreats and events.

Take a boat tour into the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spot dolphins, turtles, and various bird species in this protected natural paradise. The tours often include snorkeling in pristine waters.

• Book a reputable tour operator for a better experience and to ensure environmental responsibility.
• The boat ride can be bumpy; consider motion sickness medication if sensitive.

A beautiful, tranquil lagoon with calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. The main attraction is a deep cenote at its center, creating a striking blue contrast with the surrounding turquoise shallows.

• Bring water shoes for the cenote area.
• It's less crowded than the main beaches and offers a more serene experience.

Dine amidst the unique, nature-integrated architecture of Azulik. Kin Toh offers an upscale dining experience with stunning views, surrounded by the jungle canopy. It's a memorable spot for a special lunch.

• Reservations are essential.
• The 'nest' seating areas offer a particularly unique experience.

A unique open-air cenote that connects to the ocean, allowing for brackish water swimming and snorkeling. Kayaking through the mangrove tunnels is a popular activity here, offering a different perspective on the ecosystem.

• Good spot for beginner snorkelers and kayakers.
• You might see resident manatees or other wildlife.

This restaurant offers a fusion of Thai and Mexican cuisine with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Its cliffside location provides a romantic setting for dinner, complemented by delicious food and cocktails.

• Request a table with a sea view when booking.
• Their Thai-inspired dishes are a unique twist on local flavors.

Known as 'Skull Cenote' for its shape, this spot offers three openings for jumping into the refreshing water: one large one, and two smaller 'skull' holes. It's a fun and accessible cenote for swimming and photos.

• The smaller holes are for experienced jumpers.
• It's a great spot for unique underwater photos.

A healthy and vibrant cafe located within the Coco Tulum hotel, serving delicious organic bowls, smoothies, and juices. It's a perfect spot for a nourishing lunch after a morning of exploration.

• Their acai bowls are a must-try.
• The cafe's aesthetic is very 'boho chic'.

Drive or bike along the main beach road, stopping at various boutique shops, art galleries, and beach clubs. This road is lined with photogenic spots and unique stores selling fashion, art, and souvenirs.

• Consider renting a bike for a more intimate exploration.
• Many hotels and restaurants along this road have stunning architecture and decor worth photographing.

An intimate Italian restaurant offering homemade pasta and fresh seafood in a charming, candlelit setting. It's known for its romantic ambiance and authentic Italian flavors, a perfect end to a day of exploring.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for prime seating.
• The rustic decor adds to the intimate and romantic feel.

A beautiful, open-air cenote with crystal-clear shallow pools and deeper areas, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Its natural rock formations and surrounding greenery make it a picturesque spot for a final dip.

• This cenote is very family-friendly due to its shallow areas.
• Enjoy the natural rock jumping platforms.

A highly-rated local seafood restaurant in Tulum town, known for its fresh catches and authentic Mexican preparations. It's a fantastic, casual spot for a last taste of local cuisine before departing.

• The grilled fish is a specialty.
• Expect a lively, local atmosphere.

A final opportunity to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or local crafts from the shops in Tulum town.

• Bargaining is common in some shops.
• Look for local honey, coffee, or handmade textiles.