10 Best Things to Do and See in Tulum
Exploring Tulum on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Tulum, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Tulum. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Tulum National Park
Tulum National Park is a vast protected natural area located on the Caribbean coast in Tulum, Mexico. Visitors can discover light sand beaches lined with tropical vegetation, shaded trails, and spectacular seascapes, with turquoise waters and views over the coast. The park also surrounds the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum, making it a place where nature and heritage meet. It is a popular spot for walking, enjoying the scenery, and exploring a well-preserved coastal environment.
2. Tulum
Tulum is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the Riviera Maya, on the edge of the Caribbean Sea. Visiting this site reveals Mayan ruins perched on a cliff with superb views over turquoise water and white-sand beaches. The route lets you see several stone structures, including temples and defensive walls, while enjoying a remarkable natural setting. The whole site is appealing both for its historical significance and its coastal atmosphere, which is very different from other archaeological sites in the region.
3. Pescadores Beach
Playa Pescadores is a beach in Tulum, on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, known for its light sand and calm turquoise waters. Located near the archaeological zone, it offers a pleasant setting to relax, swim, or watch fishing boats and sea excursions head out. Its atmosphere is generally quieter than the busier beaches, while still being close to Tulum’s services and attractions. It is a simple and charming place to enjoy the coastline.
4. Ven a la Luz Sculpture
In Tulum, Escultura Ven a la Luz is a monumental artwork that has become a must-see attraction for visitors looking for a unique visual experience. This artistic installation impresses with its organic shapes and open structure, inviting contemplation and photography. Set in a tropical environment, it stands out as a contemporary landmark blending art, nature, and a beachside atmosphere. The site appeals as much for its aesthetic appeal as for the chance to admire an iconic creation from Tulum’s local art scene.
5. Cenote Zacil-Ha
Cenote Zacil-Ha, located near Tulum, is a beautiful open-air cenote where visitors come to enjoy clear, refreshing water in a natural setting typical of the Yucatán Peninsula. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, this freshwater pool offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for swimming and relaxing. It is a simple, authentic spot, appreciated for its mineral landscape, bright light, and preserved surroundings, making it a pleasant stop on a tour of the region’s cenotes.
6. Cenote Calavera
Calavera Cenote, in Tulum, is an iconic cenote on the Riviera Maya, known for its crystal-clear water, circular openings and slightly mysterious atmosphere. Here, visitors discover a natural freshwater pool surrounded by vegetation, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and, for the more adventurous, a few jumps from the prepared edges. Its unusual shape, with cavities in the limestone rock, gives it a unique charm. It is a popular spot to enjoy a typically Mexican natural setting that is both peaceful and spectacular.
7. Yax-Muul
Yax-Muul is a tourist attraction in Tulum that invites visitors to discover a natural setting typical of the Riviera Maya, with tropical vegetation, clear water, and a peaceful atmosphere. Located close to the Caribbean coast, the site is especially appealing for its relaxing setting and its ideal conditions for nature observation. People come here to enjoy a break away from the crowds, admire the scenery, and experience something simple, authentic, and connected to the local environment.
8. Ruins Beach
Playa Ruinas is a small, spectacular beach in Tulum, on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, nestled at the foot of the famous Mayan ruins overlooking the sea. It offers a setting that combines pale sand, turquoise water, and limestone cliffs, with a remarkable view of the nearby archaeological site. It is a popular spot for its photogenic setting and the sense of calm it provides, even close to the busiest areas. Access is usually on foot from the ruins, making it an ideal stop to admire the scenery and enjoy the sea.
9. Taak Bi Ha Cenote
Taak Bi Ha Cenote is an underground cenote near Tulum, in Dos Ojos Park. Discover a closed mineral chamber with a shaft of light illuminating clear blue-green water. Limestone walls, hanging roots, and deep shade give the site a unique atmosphere. This cenote is a great example of the Yucatán's karst landscape, where water has carved deep natural networks beneath the jungle.
10. El Castillo
El Castillo is one of Tulum’s most iconic sights, thanks to its dramatic cliffside location and open views over the Caribbean Sea. This stone monument, part of an exceptional coastal archaeological site, highlights the meeting of Mayan architecture and seascape. Around it lie the remains of the ancient city, including walls, buildings and walkways. The site reveals Tulum’s defensive, ceremonial and strategic role, while offering a remarkably cohesive archaeological setting.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
