Complete Travel Guide to Tulum Mexico: Everything First-Time Visitors Need to Know

Last updated on January 6th, 2026 at 11:51 pm

Planning your first trip to Tulum? This complete travel guide to Tulum is designed especially for first-time visitors, covering everything from where to stay and the best beaches to unmissable attractions and practical travel tips!

Having spent a few weeks exploring Tulum, you quickly realise that this stylish bohemian-laced beach destination on Mexico’s Riviera offers something quite special – it is so much more than just your average sunbathing holiday!

Tulum is truly a one-of-a-kind place, with its unmistakable blend of beach, jungle, art, culture, cool boutique hotels and a dreamy bohemian style, it is unlike any other place that I’ve visited in Mexico – or maybe even in the world!

But, I know it can be daunting to piece together the perfect trip to a place so big and unknown, so in this Tulum travel guide, I’ve put together a list of everything you need to know in advance to plan your very first trip to Tulum!

From how to get around to where to eat, stay and what to do – here’s all the details and answers from a self-confessed major Tulum fan!

WHERE IS TULUM & WHY VISIT

Set on Mexico’s Caribbean coast in the state of Quintana Roo, Tulum lies around two hours south of Cancún and is part of the Riviera Maya. Known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush jungle surroundings, it’s one of Mexico’s most stylish destinations.

What makes Tulum stand out is its unique mix of natural beauty and culture, you can explore ancient Mayan ruins perched above the sea, swim in crystal-clear cenotes hidden in the jungle, and end the day at a chic beach club or candlelit restaurant!

Tulum offers chic boutique hotels, wellness retreats and a more laid-back bohemian alternative to Mexico’s larger resort towns, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors to the Yucatan Peninsula!

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TULUM

Tulum has a tropical climate and is hot all year round, but first-time visitors should be aware of two main seasons: wet and dry.

The best time to visit Tulum is the sunny dry season, which runs from November to March; it avoids the seaweed and rain (which can last for 6 months)!

Tourism peaks in December and January, which are more expensive and busy months to visit, my personal favourite month is February!

HOW TO GET TO TULUM

Flying into Cancun International Airport is the most convenient way of getting to Tulum internationally, you will then transfer to Tulum by car, which takes around two hours.

Getting To Tulum From Cancun Airport:

I highly recommend booking a straightforward private airport transfer from Cancun to Tulum in advance – quick and direct service is best for first-time visitors, groups and those less familiar with the layout (you don’t want to be freaked out upon arrival!).

You can also book a one-way or round-trip airport shared shuttle transfer from Cancun Airport to your hotel (it will take a little longer due to potential drop-offs on the way to Tulum)!

If you are travelling around the Yucatan, hire car is available directly from the airport from as little as $25-40 per day (save and book with Discover Cars here).

Good To Know:

Cancun Airport is always extremely busy; it can take 2 hours to pass customs, collect luggage and depart the building, so leave plenty of time between landing and taxi pickups!

I also urge you to book a flight that arrives in the daylight, Tulum is a couple of hours away and getting to your hotel in the dark, surrounded by jungle, is very disorientating!!

HOW LONG TO STAY IN TULUM

Tulum is a great place to visit for a longer relaxing beach holiday, I recommend staying for 7 days, especially if you’re coming from Europe – it gives you a good balance of relaxing on the beach and sightseeing without feeling rushed!

WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM (Best Areas Explained)

Choosing where to stay in Tulum is key, as each area offers a very different experience and they are miles apart! From beachfront boutique hotels to jungle neighbourhoods and local town stays, here’s a quick breakdown of the areas – especially useful if it’s your first visit!

Tulum Beach (Hotel Zone)

Best for: beachfront stays, boutique hotels, beach clubs – first-time visitors

The most iconic place to stay, Tulum Beach, runs along the palm-lined beach road south of the ruins (it covers a 6-mile area). It’s known for stylish boutique hotels, beach clubs, yoga studios, and a bohemian atmosphere. This is where I stay towards the quieter, more beautiful end of the hotel zone.

Hotel Town (Pueblo)

Best for: local vibe, value, restaurants

Tulum Town has a ‘lived-in’ local vibe, it’s walkable, and offers the best value in accommodations. You’ll find restaurants, taco stands, coffee shops and stalls, but it takes 35-minutes to cycle just to the beginning of the Hotel Zone. It’s a practical choice for those with smaller budgets, but I wouldn’t recommend it for first-time visitors as it doesn’t have that special Tulum style or vibe!

Aldea Zama

Best for: modern stays, calm atmosphere

Aldea Zama sits between the beach and town and offers a quieter, more polished feel. Expect stylish boutique hotels and apartments, ideal if you want something calmer, but still close to everything – there’s not much ‘to do’ in Aldea Zama itself other than hang out at the new Hunab Lifestyle centre.

La Veleta

Best for: longer stays, digital nomads

A livelier, up-and-coming area with good-value boutique hotels and jungle villas, located more in the jungle, next to Tulum Town. It’s less central, so transport is essential, but it’s a great option for relaxed, longer trips – digital nomads love the hippy jungle vibe!

HOTEL TOP PICKS FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

If you’re visiting Tulum for the first time, these hotels are my top picks for location, style and atmosphere:

• Maxanab: A stylish adults-only boutique hotel on the beachfront, perfect for first-timers who want comfort, design, and a beautiful location.
• Chiringuito Tulum: A beautiful new beachfront boutique hotel on South Beach with a nice vibe, and a pretty setting.
• Nomade Tulum: Ideal if you want the full Tulum experience: beach, wellness, and true bohemian design on gorgeous South Beach.
• La Zebra: Perfect for a central beachfront boutique stay with easy access to restaurants and attractions.

For more detailed hotel recommendations by area, see my full Where to Stay in Tulum guide.

HOW TO GET AROUND TULUM

Getting around Tulum can look confusing when you first arrive, as it is so spread out, but trust me, it’s easy once you know the basics!

Cycling

For easy commutes to restaurants, cafes and nearby beaches, cycling is the best and most popular way to get around Tulum – it can take you 45 minutes just to cycle the beach road. Most hotels provide bikes or can easily rent one with Ola Bike Tulum and they will deliver it to you!

Tip! Take a helmet, the Beach Road at certain times of the day can become congested with traffic and there isn’t a specific cycle lane!

Walking

If you’re staying along the main beach road, you are in the ideal spot to walk along the beachfront of the Hotel Zone and find beach bars, beach clubs and restaurants, avoiding all the traffic, noise, roads and commute!

Taxis

Book a taxi or private driver if you’re heading out in the evening or for shorter trips. Just agree on a price beforehand, as they can be verrrrrry expensive and not metered (you’ll pay $35 from the town to the beach, for example).

Rental Cars

A car offers the most flexibility if you plan to explore beyond Tulum or for stays in Aldea Zama, La Veleta, or Tankah Bay! (save and book with Discover Cars here)

Best Option for First-Time Visitors

Most first-time visitors find that bikes by day and taxis at night work well, with an organised day trip to explore further afield (a hassle-free, organised small group tour is better than hiring a car due to the crazy Mexican drivers, uneven roads and navigation!!)

BEST THINGS TO DO IN TULUM

You can find many things to do in Tulum, whether you’re into yoga, stylish beach clubs, ancient ruins or jungle cenotes, these are the unmissable and unique things to do in Tulum – especially for your first visit!

Relax On The Beach

Tulum is well-known for its incredible white sand and turquoise waters – go for a swim or relax with a cocktail in hand, you can’t beat it – it’s usually the purpose of visiting Tulum!

Visit The Tulum Ruins

A visit to the Mayan Ruins is a Tulum must see, it’s not a huge site like Chichen Itza, but what makes the experience special are the beautifully manicured grounds and stunning sea view! Arrive early to beat the crowds and heat and book a private tour!

Swim In A Local Cenote

Tulum is surrounded by mysterious, crystal-clear cenotes (natural swimming holes) hidden in the jungle. Gran Cenote and Cenote Calavera are popular choices and easy to visit on a first trip.

Enjoy A Beach Club

Spending a day at a beach club is a classic Tulum experience; they are well-organised with luxurious day beds, cocktails, ocean views, and a relaxed bohemian atmosphere along the beach road.

(For my favourite spots, see my full Best Things to Do in Tulum guide.)

Book A Wellness Retreat

Yoga classes and wellness treatments are popular in Tulum. You can find every type of yoga class and traditional Mexican ceremony, but what makes it different are the epic venues!

Take A Day Trip

If you have extra time, it’s well worth adding one or two day trips from Tulum to your itinerary, nearby highlights include the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, snorkelling in Akumal, while further afield, you can explore Chichen Itza!

Quick Tip for First-Time Visitors:

If you’re short on time, focus on one cenote, one beach day, the ruins and one jungle restaurant that gives you a perfect first taste of Tulum.

For more detail, see my full Best Things to Do in Tulum guide!

TULUM BEACHES EXPLAINED

The beaches in Tulum are often described as some of the most beautiful in Mexico, with powdery white sand and turquoise Caribbean water. The coastline is divided into a few distinct areas, each offering a slightly different atmosphere – from lively beach clubs to quieter, more relaxed stretches.

North Beach

Best for: natural public beach, national park, swimming, Mayan Ruins

Located closer to the ruins and heading north, this area has recently been formed into the Jaguar National Park, including three main beach coves. Access is not free, but included in your Mayan Ruins ticket, or if you’re staying at one of the few hotels, otherwise you pay separately to enter.

Middle Beach

Best for: private beach, beach clubs, atmosphere, convenience

This is the heart of Tulum’s hotel zone, a private beach where you’ll find many of the most popular beach clubs, restaurants, and beachfront hotels. It’s lively, social, and ideal if you want everything within easy reach!

South Beach

Best for: private beach, boutique hotels, bohemian vibe

Further south, the private beach becomes more laid-back and scenic, with boutique hotels, candlelit restaurants, and a relaxed, boho feel. It’s perfect if you’re after a slower pace and beautiful surroundings, perfect for first-timers wanting the quintessential Tulum feel!

Good To Know:

You can only access the private beach through hotels, beach clubs and restaurants – and stay if you’re hiring a beach bed for the day, consuming in any of the above or if you have booked a hotel right on the beach front!

Planning where to stay near the beach? See my full Where to Stay in Tulum guide for hotel recommendations by area.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN TULUM

Tulum’s food scene ranges from barefoot beachfront dining to casual side-of-the-road smoothie bars and stylish jungle restaurants. Where you eat is a huge part of your Tulum experience, so here’s a simple breakdown for first-time visitors.

Along The Beachfront

The beachfront (hotel zone area) is known for its laid-back, feet-in-the-sand dining, with stylish restaurants, beach clubs and beautiful settings, an ideal choice for a long lunch or sunset cocktails!

Cafés & Brunch Spots

Cafés are mainly dotted throughout South Beach and Aldea Zama (best spots), making it easy to find great coffee, smoothie bowls, and relaxed brunch options – perfect for a lingering breakfast in Tulum!

Beach Road Dining

From fine-dining to farm-to-table concepts, you can find it all in the jungle-set restaurants along the Beach Road, which become atmospheric at night with candle-lit tables and twinkly lights.

Bars & Evening Drinks

Evenings in Tulum are a mix of jungle cocktail bars along the Beach Road, beachfront venues with a social, bohemian feel – ideal for drinks after dinner and in the town, original hippy bars with live music!

For specific recommendations, see my full Best Restaurants in Tulum guide and Best Brunch Spots in Tulum post.

PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR VISITING TULUM

Now you’ve almost gotten to the end of this travel guide to Tulum post, here’s a few essential travel tips for visiting Tulum that are definitely worth being aware of before you travel!

Hotel Reservations

Tulum is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico. I highly recommend booking your favourite boutique hotel months in advance for the best rates and availability!

Bring Cash!

While many hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs accept cards, cash is still essential in Tulum – particularly for taxis, smaller cafés, markets, and cenote entrances. ATMs are available in town, but it’s best not to rely on them exclusively – bring Mexican Pesos, US Dollars are sometimes accepted!

Is Tulum Safe?

Tulum is generally safe for visitors, especially in tourist areas. Just use common sense, avoid quiet streets late at night, don’t go to illegal jungle parties and keep valuables secure – particularly when biking or visiting the beach.

Getting Online

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and restaurants. If you want constant connectivity, consider buying an eSIM with E-local before you arrive.

Tipping in Tulum

Tipping is customary in Tulum. In restaurants and bars, 10–15% is standard if service isn’t already included. It’s also common to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Drinking Water

Tap water in Tulum isn’t safe to drink – at all! Stick to bottled, which is readily available everywhere – including in hotels and beach clubs – and brush your teeth with it too!

What to Pack

Lightweight clothing, swimwear, and comfortable sandals are essential; the vibe here is very bohemian-chic. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat – the sun can be strong year-round.

Quick Tips for First-Time Visitors to Tulum:

• Stay central if it’s your first visit – Hotel Zone, South or Middle Beach – is safest.
• Use bikes by day, taxis at night – it’s the simplest combo for getting around.
• Carry some cash daily – especially for taxis, cenotes, and small eateries.
• Start early – beaches, cenotes, and ruins are best in the morning.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen – required at cenotes and hard to avoid buying otherwise.
• Embrace the vibe – Tulum is casual, stylish, and unhurried – embrace it!

Is Tulum worth visiting?

Yes – especially for first-time visitors! With its mix of beautiful beaches, jungle cenotes, Mayan ruins, and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, Tulum offers something different from Mexico’s larger resort destinations. It’s ideal if you’re looking for both a stylish and laid-back beach escape!

Planning your trip to Tulum?

Planning your trip to Tulum? I’ve also shared in-depth guides to where to stay in Tulum and the best things to do in Tulum – perfect for building a relaxed, bohemian-style itinerary. If you’re keen to explore beyond the beach, my day trips from Tulum guide is also worth bookmarking!

Read Next:

• Where To Stay In Tulum – the best areas, boutique hotels & luxury stays!
• Best Things To Do In Tulum – ruins, restaurants, beach clubs & experiences!
• Day Trips From Tulum – cenotes, lagoons & nearby ruins worth visiting!
• Explore all Tulum guides!

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