Tulum: What to do
Let’s start at the BEACH!
My Fave Day Clubs are Taboo, Vagalume, Bagatelle, Tantra, Mia, Coco Beach, Casa Malca, and Conestesia.
Welcome to the JUNGLE!
If the Beach isn’t your THANG, and you just want tranquility and are seeking refuge, and hope to lay on your hammock, read a book, listen to birds’ chirp, take open-air showers, soak in a rooftop pool, with some access to “civilization,” then the Jungle setting is for YOU!
The Jungle part of Tulum is mostly undisturbed, isolated, breath-taking, and a chill; but construction has boomed immensely in the last few years, as developers, investors, and hotel entrepreneurs have created striking properties in this lovely sanctuary! For a private lodging experience, you can book cool, and beautifully designed retreats, cabanas, and Airbnb’s that are off the beaten path and nestled deep (or not so deep) in the jungle! Keep in mind though, that the jungle is mainly inhabited by local Mayan villagers, wildlife, insects, unmarked dirt roads, and lots of vegetation; and depending on your location, you may have to ride your bike between 5-15 min into the Pueblo, and upwards to an hour just to get your beach destination.
NOTE:
The jungle is booming, and while there are restaurants, coffee shops, and plenty of “abarrotes” – mini markets for water and snacks nearby, I highly encourage you to research the location before you book your accommodations, to ensure the property will cater and fulfill all your needs!
My FAVE hidden jungle gem is…
Laguna Kaan Luum!
I selfishly wanted to keep this place a secret LOL!! But I felt compelled to share! If you wanna go for a swim, and not deal with the on-going sargassum concern, currently infesting the Rivera Maya, then head out to this lovely lagoon that is located about 15min from the jungle (by car). For ONLY 50 pesos, you can enjoy the electrifying crystal-clear waters, access all the Insta’ props (hammock, swing, and nest), exfoliate your skin with the white sand, and/or let the little fish nibble on your toes! Before you go, please note that reception is bad, so set your return BEFORE you arrive. Also, there are no lockers, the snack bar is not always open, and note that the bathrooms are located in the mangroves. Nonetheless, it is worth the visit: it is fun, charming, inexpensive, and you will meet many locals. Bring your ice chest, biodegrade sunscreen, and a trash bag!
If you wanna stay in the jungle and explore all of Tulum, but do not want to get swindled by outrages taxi fees and don’t mind a slight work-out, then rent a bike! Rentals run about $10 per day and they will take you everywhere—you will certainly navigate right by the traffic. There’s plenty of bike parking available, everywhere! As an added tip, take a picture of your parked bike’s location for easy identification, as it can be overwhelming by the beach and near the Pueblo’s nightlife. Also, be sure to rent a bike with a basket (for your belongings) and with a front-facing light to illuminate the roads, as there are areas with limited, or no, streetlights. So, get peddling and be careful!
Last, but certainly NOT least…
NO trip to Tulum is complete, if you do not visit the Tulum Archaeological Ruins! It is a popular and touristy must-see attraction! With its beautiful picture-perfect views of the Caribbean and ancient ruins, it is worth a visit! For 80 MXN pesos (**Foreign currency not accepted**), you can explore the grounds at your pace, or you can hire a local tour guide for a steep 600 MXN pesos—it’s totally up to you! Doors open at 9am, so get there early (or much later in the day) because the crowds can get hectic. The weather is HOT & HUMID, and the sun WILL drain you, so wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Also, make sure to bring a towel and swimsuit, as there is beach underneath the ruins. And don’t forget your selfie stick—they are welcome!