Guidebook for Tulum
by Liliya
City/town information
Welcome to Tulum Mexico
Breathe it in… the salty air, the wafting of floral incense, the deep sweetness of tropical flora and fauna…exhale slowly. You have arrived in Tulum. The magic of Tulum and the reason it has become such an extraordinary destination on the Yucatan Peninsula lies not only in the history of the nearby Mayan ruins of the same name, but in the energetic pull the city and sea have over those who come to visit.
**Practical Tips:
Before going out for the evening, here are some things to know about Tulum’s bars, restaurants and nightlife:
Pay in pesos. Most Tulum bars don’t accept credit cards or US dollars. Even if they do take dollars, you will probably end up overpaying.
Remember to tip. Tipping 10-15% is customary in Tulum. Just check your bill first to see if the restaurant has already added a “propina” (tip).
Use bug spray. It’s a good idea to apply insect repellent before going to outdoor bars on the jungle side of the beach.
999 recommandé par les habitants
Tulum
Welcome to Tulum Mexico
Breathe it in… the salty air, the wafting of floral incense, the deep sweetness of tropical flora and fauna…exhale slowly. You have arrived in Tulum. The magic of Tulum and the reason it has become such an extraordinary destination on the Yucatan Peninsula lies not only in the history of the nearby Mayan ruins of the same name, but in the energetic pull the city and sea have over those who come to visit.
**Practical Tips:
Before going out for the evening, here are some things to know about Tulum’s bars, restaurants and nightlife:
Pay in pesos. Most Tulum bars don’t accept credit cards or US dollars. Even if they do take dollars, you will probably end up overpaying.
Remember to tip. Tipping 10-15% is customary in Tulum. Just check your bill first to see if the restaurant has already added a “propina” (tip).
Use bug spray. It’s a good idea to apply insect repellent before going to outdoor bars on the jungle side of the beach.
Sightseeing
things to do
TULUM – THE WALLED CITY
The greatest attraction at the Tulum Ruins is its location. Built on a bluff facing the rising sun, this ruin site is the only Maya settlement located on the beaches of the Caribbean
514 recommandé par les habitants
Ruinas de Tulum
TULUM – THE WALLED CITY
The greatest attraction at the Tulum Ruins is its location. Built on a bluff facing the rising sun, this ruin site is the only Maya settlement located on the beaches of the Caribbean
Diving in a cenote is like floating in another universe. It’s like evolving on a turquoise planet full of sacred history. The cathedral like stalactites and stalagmites that dive deep in the clear, crystal waters are like masterpieces!
323 recommandé par les habitants
Two Eyes Cenote
Diving in a cenote is like floating in another universe. It’s like evolving on a turquoise planet full of sacred history. The cathedral like stalactites and stalagmites that dive deep in the clear, crystal waters are like masterpieces!
Discover jungle wildlife, and float in the tranquil turquoise waters before returning home. Sian Ka'an is home to thousands of species of flora and fauna. Sian Ka’an is a Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located south of the town of Tulum. It’s a very unique and natural area along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico.
316 recommandé par les habitants
Sian Ka'an
Discover jungle wildlife, and float in the tranquil turquoise waters before returning home. Sian Ka'an is home to thousands of species of flora and fauna. Sian Ka’an is a Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located south of the town of Tulum. It’s a very unique and natural area along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico.
If you are to see on pyramid during your stay at Casa Yaxiik, the Coba Pyramids is a good option. Easy access from Tulum, just about 45 min drive. The Maya ruins at Cobá are unique in that only a few of its estimated 6,500 structures have been uncovered, but the ones that have been are graceful and impressive. On these quiet and peaceful grounds it´s hard to imagine that Cobá may have once had the largest population of all the ancient Mayan cities. This vast Mayan archeological site dates from 600-900 A.D. and there were an estimated 100,000 people living in its domain. It was the heart of a large metropolis composed of many cities within the eastern Yucatan.
361 recommandé par les habitants
Coba
If you are to see on pyramid during your stay at Casa Yaxiik, the Coba Pyramids is a good option. Easy access from Tulum, just about 45 min drive. The Maya ruins at Cobá are unique in that only a few of its estimated 6,500 structures have been uncovered, but the ones that have been are graceful and impressive. On these quiet and peaceful grounds it´s hard to imagine that Cobá may have once had the largest population of all the ancient Mayan cities. This vast Mayan archeological site dates from 600-900 A.D. and there were an estimated 100,000 people living in its domain. It was the heart of a large metropolis composed of many cities within the eastern Yucatan.
What makes Laguna Kaan Luum special is the color of the water and the fact the center is a deep cenote. Some say the center is about 80 meters (262ft.) deep. You can tell the color contrast between the center of the lagoon and the sides.
194 recommandé par les habitants
Lagon Kaan Luum
What makes Laguna Kaan Luum special is the color of the water and the fact the center is a deep cenote. Some say the center is about 80 meters (262ft.) deep. You can tell the color contrast between the center of the lagoon and the sides.
The biggest cenote in the area. Just amazing! The most touristic cenote in Tulum.
410 recommandé par les habitants
Gran Cenote
The biggest cenote in the area. Just amazing! The most touristic cenote in Tulum.
Food Scene
Posada Margherita
Italian, Seafood, Mediterranean
Located at the Posada Margherita this restaurant with the same name is Tulum’s most iconic Italian eatery. This spot serves up delicious focaccias and house-made pasta with immaculate ocean views. Cash only.
17 recommandé par les habitants
Posada Margherita
Carretera Tulum Boca PailaPosada Margherita
Italian, Seafood, Mediterranean
Located at the Posada Margherita this restaurant with the same name is Tulum’s most iconic Italian eatery. This spot serves up delicious focaccias and house-made pasta with immaculate ocean views. Cash only.
Enjoy an evening out at one of Tulum’s best fine dining establishments- Rosa Negra.
113 recommandé par les habitants
RosaNegra Tulum
5 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaEnjoy an evening out at one of Tulum’s best fine dining establishments- Rosa Negra.
This is one of Tulum’s must try restaurants, thanks to their amazing menu that changes seasonally.The famous beach restaurant - google it for the story. Absolutely delicious. All cooking is done in a wood-burning oven or open grill. Located on the jungle side of the beach road. Open 6 - 11 pm no reservations, first come first served.
243 recommandé par les habitants
Hartwood
7 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaThis is one of Tulum’s must try restaurants, thanks to their amazing menu that changes seasonally.The famous beach restaurant - google it for the story. Absolutely delicious. All cooking is done in a wood-burning oven or open grill. Located on the jungle side of the beach road. Open 6 - 11 pm no reservations, first come first served.
If you’re looking for an authentic Tulum experience, you don’t want to miss out on the chance to dine at Arca. This micro-seasonal restaurant is the baby of Mexican-American chef Jose Luis Hinostroza.
113 recommandé par les habitants
Arca
Carretera Tulum-Boca PailaIf you’re looking for an authentic Tulum experience, you don’t want to miss out on the chance to dine at Arca. This micro-seasonal restaurant is the baby of Mexican-American chef Jose Luis Hinostroza.
BAK’ by Harry’s serves up delicious, made-to-order steaks from the best cuts in the world – think Japanese Kobe, Australian Black Onyx, Akaushi Red Wagyu, and the likes.
18 recommandé par les habitants
BAK’ by Harry's | Prime Steakhouse & Raw Bar
Km. 8.5 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaBAK’ by Harry’s serves up delicious, made-to-order steaks from the best cuts in the world – think Japanese Kobe, Australian Black Onyx, Akaushi Red Wagyu, and the likes.
Azuliks surreal architectural design and
aesthetics of this treehouse restaurant invites you to discover
private Nests that float above The Mayan jungle. All locations are
environmentally conscious and are each built to ensure they
leave no carbon footprint. This treehouse brings the experience
of eating to a journey in which all the senses intervene under the
stars.
75 recommandé par les habitants
Azulik Resort
Azuliks surreal architectural design and
aesthetics of this treehouse restaurant invites you to discover
private Nests that float above The Mayan jungle. All locations are
environmentally conscious and are each built to ensure they
leave no carbon footprint. This treehouse brings the experience
of eating to a journey in which all the senses intervene under the
stars.
Burritos are made with their fresh, homemade tortillas (flour, gluten-free, or grain-free) and stuffed with a variety of fillings (meat, vegetarian, vegan, egg-free, dairy-free, and/or paleo-friendly). They also have a killer bar, mixing up signature cocktails, aquas frescas, fresh squeezed juices, and fragrant coffee. Great menu and service all day. Cash only.
212 recommandé par les habitants
Burrito Amor
Mz 05 Av. TulumBurritos are made with their fresh, homemade tortillas (flour, gluten-free, or grain-free) and stuffed with a variety of fillings (meat, vegetarian, vegan, egg-free, dairy-free, and/or paleo-friendly). They also have a killer bar, mixing up signature cocktails, aquas frescas, fresh squeezed juices, and fragrant coffee. Great menu and service all day. Cash only.
Favorite... Jungle setting, open fire grill and really good food, steak and fish!
165 recommandé par les habitants
Casa Banana
Km. 7.5 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaFavorite... Jungle setting, open fire grill and really good food, steak and fish!
Drinks & Nightlife
The beach and town areas of Tulum have a variety of great places where you can dance, chill out and taste amazing drinks.
If you want some inventive cocktails in a magical outdoor lounge, head to Gitanos. The restaurant has a full menu of modern Mexican cuisine and a wide range of fruity mezcal-laced drinks.
300 recommandé par les habitants
Gitano
If you want some inventive cocktails in a magical outdoor lounge, head to Gitanos. The restaurant has a full menu of modern Mexican cuisine and a wide range of fruity mezcal-laced drinks.
Great place to listen to live music on Tulum beach and amazing cocktails.
22 recommandé par les habitants
Habitas Tulum
Avenida Boca PailaGreat place to listen to live music on Tulum beach and amazing cocktails.
Nômade is an upscale boho-style hotel with a restaurant and large beachfront bar. Lounge about on comfortable pillows on the sand, or relax in a hammock hanging between palm trees.
84 recommandé par les habitants
Nômade
Km 10.5 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaNômade is an upscale boho-style hotel with a restaurant and large beachfront bar. Lounge about on comfortable pillows on the sand, or relax in a hammock hanging between palm trees.
Drop by after 11 pm to hear some great live music in Tulum from local and international DJs. If you prefer a more casual evening, Casa Jaguar hosts smaller parties on Tuesday nights.
The bar is also famous for its super fresh ingredients and expertly mixed cocktails. For non-alcohol drinkers, the Chai House serves Masala chai in a range of unique flavors.
202 recommandé par les habitants
Casa Jaguar
Avenida Boca PailaDrop by after 11 pm to hear some great live music in Tulum from local and international DJs. If you prefer a more casual evening, Casa Jaguar hosts smaller parties on Tuesday nights.
The bar is also famous for its super fresh ingredients and expertly mixed cocktails. For non-alcohol drinkers, the Chai House serves Masala chai in a range of unique flavors.
Of all Tulum, Mexico’s bars, the Papaya Playa Project (PPP) is the biggest and most popular place to party. Every Saturday, their beach club throws a dazzling party that draws prominent DJs and guest musicians.
Once a month, the famous Full Moon party rocks the beach at PPP -it’s one of the staples of Tulum’s nightlife. Big-name DJs are in charge of the music and will have you dancing into the early morning hours. Buy tickets in advance to ensure you get a place at this party.
297 recommandé par les habitants
Papaya Playa Project
Km 4.5 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaOf all Tulum, Mexico’s bars, the Papaya Playa Project (PPP) is the biggest and most popular place to party. Every Saturday, their beach club throws a dazzling party that draws prominent DJs and guest musicians.
Once a month, the famous Full Moon party rocks the beach at PPP -it’s one of the staples of Tulum’s nightlife. Big-name DJs are in charge of the music and will have you dancing into the early morning hours. Buy tickets in advance to ensure you get a place at this party.
This beach club also features craft cocktails made with local ingredients and artisanal spirits that are sure to pair perfectly with your meal.
The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is a perfect place to lounge and enjoy lunch on the beach.
82 recommandé par les habitants
Taboo Tulum
This beach club also features craft cocktails made with local ingredients and artisanal spirits that are sure to pair perfectly with your meal.
The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is a perfect place to lounge and enjoy lunch on the beach.
SUNSET EXPERIENCE
Enjoy an unforgettable sunset while you float on one of nests over the jungle. This experience is open to the general public from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm.
75 recommandé par les habitants
Azulik Resort
SUNSET EXPERIENCE
Enjoy an unforgettable sunset while you float on one of nests over the jungle. This experience is open to the general public from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm.
Breakfast
Raw Love
Raw Vegan Cafe Smoothie bowls.
Choose from breakfast bowls, mango tango kombucha and of course matcha lattes. All day you can enjoy super smoothie bowls, healthy shakes and elixir shots — it’s a fantastic way to start the day. All of their products are plant based and gluten free, made freshy and with a whole lot of love.
35 recommandé par les habitants
Matcha Mama
lt 6 Andromeda OteChoose from breakfast bowls, mango tango kombucha and of course matcha lattes. All day you can enjoy super smoothie bowls, healthy shakes and elixir shots — it’s a fantastic way to start the day. All of their products are plant based and gluten free, made freshy and with a whole lot of love.
If you’re looking for a spot with the perfect ambiance to start your day in paradise, look no further than Ziggy’s.
51 recommandé par les habitants
Plage de Ziggy
km 7.5 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaIf you’re looking for a spot with the perfect ambiance to start your day in paradise, look no further than Ziggy’s.
This beachside restaurant is known for its delicious menu with both local Mexican and international flavors.
How about a classic Breakfast Burrito – scrambled eggs, pico de gallo, guacamole, rice & beans wrapped in a handmade tortilla.
Or try out their Tres Leches Pancakes – fluffy pancakes served with lime tre leches sauce and topped with whipped cream for all your guilty pleasure.
187 recommandé par les habitants
La Zebra Hotel Tulum
Km 8.2 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaThis beachside restaurant is known for its delicious menu with both local Mexican and international flavors.
How about a classic Breakfast Burrito – scrambled eggs, pico de gallo, guacamole, rice & beans wrapped in a handmade tortilla.
Or try out their Tres Leches Pancakes – fluffy pancakes served with lime tre leches sauce and topped with whipped cream for all your guilty pleasure.
This small cafe can get busy quickly, but it’s worth the wait! You’ll love their breakfast menu and the lush garden setting.
The Huevos Rancheros are highly recommended; scrambled eggs in salsa roja and black beans.
Their fresh juice menu is fantastic and includes options like Lemongrass Lemonade and Rose & Hibiscus.
16 recommandé par les habitants
BOTANICA Garden Cafe
Andromeda OrienteThis small cafe can get busy quickly, but it’s worth the wait! You’ll love their breakfast menu and the lush garden setting.
The Huevos Rancheros are highly recommended; scrambled eggs in salsa roja and black beans.
Their fresh juice menu is fantastic and includes options like Lemongrass Lemonade and Rose & Hibiscus.
Italian, French, International, Cafe
Delicious bakery for breakfast or lunch!
106 recommandé par les habitants
ITALDO
Italian, French, International, Cafe
Delicious bakery for breakfast or lunch!
Yoga and ceremony
Join daily yoga classes in the oceanfront studio (try to make at least one sunrise session), bliss out at meditation sessions on the beach, and indulge in a massage using organic oils and locally made products.
112 recommandé par les habitants
Ahau Tulum
Join daily yoga classes in the oceanfront studio (try to make at least one sunrise session), bliss out at meditation sessions on the beach, and indulge in a massage using organic oils and locally made products.
There are daily yoga lessons, a spiritual dome for sound healing and cacao ceremonies, a jungle artwork and even a treehouse for anyone who needs time to themselves.
119 recommandé par les habitants
Holistika
Calle 10 SurThere are daily yoga lessons, a spiritual dome for sound healing and cacao ceremonies, a jungle artwork and even a treehouse for anyone who needs time to themselves.
Unique rituals, experiences, and ideas. The weekly journey is always different
297 recommandé par les habitants
Papaya Playa Project
Km 4.5 Carr. Tulum-Boca PailaUnique rituals, experiences, and ideas. The weekly journey is always different
Grocery Store
Tulum’s version of WalMart
Huge grocery store. Basically the only huge grocery store in Tulum. Many non-food options and full drug-store pharmacy. I recommend this is the best place to shop for large grocery, alcohol, and non-food needs.
609 recommandé par les habitants
Chedraui
Huge grocery store. Basically the only huge grocery store in Tulum. Many non-food options and full drug-store pharmacy. I recommend this is the best place to shop for large grocery, alcohol, and non-food needs.