Top things to do in Tulum✨
📍 Tulum Mexico
⭐️Resort: We stayed at Secrets Tulum and the rooms were really nice. I loved having a balcony with a tub to relax in during any down time we might have. The buildings were so beautiful and unique and I definitely enjoyed the sunsets.
⭐️ Casa Tortuga: This place had many cute art displays and where we enjoyed a couple of cenotes. Cenotes are natural sink holes where you can swim in. I personally get a little scared being inside, especially the enclosed ones, but it’s definitely an experience that everyone should try. It feels unreal how nature can form these things.
⭐️Xel-Ha: This is similar to an amusement park is how I would describe it. They have a large water slide that you can use and they have options like zip-lining. They also have bike rides and lazy rivers with unlimited snorkeling. The water was really nice and they had plenty of tubes to use if you want to float down the river or they provide a face snorkel and fins for people who want to snorkel down the river. We did both and it was really fun. They also have a couple of options for dining and they’re buffets that is included in your price. The food was so good. The lockers, towels, and wet bags for when you want to go down the river but not bring all your stuff, is all included in the price. They also have animals like the birds.
⭐️Swimming with turtles: We just went with the one our resort booked for us. There are plenty of options. Our guides took us out when the water was choppy so not only was it exhausting to swim against the currents, the water was a little blurry. As much as it was so hard trying to keep up, it was so magical seeing the turtles. I definitely recommend anyone to see them, they are so gentle and peaceful creatures.
⭐️Matcha Mama: The matcha here was pretty good, I had to try it when I saw it on my Google maps. They have a couple of locations, but this one was a few minutes walk from the resort. I enjoyed it and it was a cute little shop.
Okay, so while my initial trip to Tulum was absolutely incredible, I know a lot of you are also looking for those iconic historical sites and deeper natural experiences. And guess what? Tulum has so much more to offer beyond the cenotes and resort life I talked about! If you're planning your visit, you absolutely cannot miss these gems. First up, the Tulum Ruins. Seriously, how did I not dedicate more time to these? They're one of the most famous historical sites in the Riviera Maya, perched right on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Imagine ancient Mayan structures with that kind of backdrop – it's breathtaking! From what I've learned, arriving early in the morning is key to beat the crowds and the heat. You can walk around, explore the various temples, and even spot iguanas basking in the sun. Many people recommend hiring a local guide at the entrance to truly understand the history and significance of this ancient walled city. Don't forget your swimwear, because there's a small beach right below the ruins where you can take a dip after your exploration! It’s such a unique experience to swim with a view of history. Then there are the Cobá Ruins. These are a bit further inland, about an hour's drive from Tulum, but so worth the journey. Unlike Tulum, Cobá is nestled deep within the jungle, giving it a completely different vibe. The main attraction here is Nohoch Mul, one of the tallest Mayan pyramids in the Yucatán Peninsula that you can still climb! My friends who went said the view from the top is absolutely spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the dense jungle canopy. To get around this expansive site, you can rent bicycles or hire a 'bici-taxi' (a rickshaw-style bike) which adds to the adventure. It feels like stepping back in time as you cycle through the shaded paths. Remember to bring plenty of water and bug spray for this jungle adventure. And for true nature lovers, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is a must-add to your itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a massive protected area south of Tulum, encompassing mangroves, lagoons, and a section of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. It's truly a natural wonder. I've heard amazing things about the boat tours you can take through the lagoons, where you might spot dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, and countless bird species in their natural habitat. It’s an incredible opportunity to connect with untouched nature. Planning your visit here usually involves booking a guided tour, as independent access can be tricky due to its protected status. These tours often include snorkeling in pristine waters or floating down ancient Mayan canals. It sounds like an absolutely serene and unforgettable experience that offers a completely different side of Tulum's natural beauty. So, when you're planning your perfect Tulum getaway, definitely consider adding these historical sites and deeper natural explorations to your list. They truly round out the experience, giving you a mix of adventure, history, and unparalleled natural beauty. Happy travels!
