Things to do in Tulum

No. 11 of Best Things to Do in Mexico

Tulum

Tulum sits on a Caribbean cliff along the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. This coastal city-state was built in the late Maya civilization and remained inhabited, reaching its peak between the 13th and 15th centuries. "Tulum" means "wall" in Yucatec Maya, as the ancient city is enclosed by stone walls several m high on three sides, with the fourth facing the sea, serving as both a fortress and a port. It was a gateway for the inland Maya city of Cobá to maritime routes and a key hub for goods like obsidian. Facing the sunrise over the sea, it was possibly once called Zama, meaning "city of dawn." The main attractions are concentrated along the cliff edge: El Castillo stands at the cliff's end as the site's landmark, with carvings of deities like the feathered serpent visible on its facade. The Temple of the Frescoes retains remnants of Maya murals and red handprint decorations, while the Temple of the Descending God features a diving deity figure, an iconic symbol of Tulum. The Temple of the Wind occupies a small rocky platform jutting into the sea, offering expansive views perfect for capturing the turquoise waters and white sand. Below the cliff lies a beach where many travelers stop to wade or rest, and iguanas basking among the rocks are common "locals." Follow the cliffside path to explore the temples, then look back at the castle from the seaside—the frame of ancient stone walls against the Caribbean is what sets it apart from inland Maya ruins. At dawn, the soft light enhances the layers of the walls and sea, and the site is relatively quiet.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Tulum

Parque Nacional Tulum

Parque Nacional Tulum is located on the Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo, Mexico, and is a special protected area that blends ancient Mayan ruins with natural ecology. Established in 1981, the park encompasses diverse ecosystems including dense jungles, mangroves, beaches, coastal dunes, and cenotes. It is home to over 545 species of flora and fauna, including various protected or endangered species such as spider monkeys, white-nosed coatis, and margays. A well-known attraction within the park isTulum, an ancient Mayan port city built in the 13th century that once served as an important trade hub for the city of Coba. In addition to its cultural heritage, this park is a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can relax on white sand beaches, explore clear cenotes, or snorkel among coral reefs to admire colorful marine life. Parque Nacional Tulum is not only a testament to Mayan civilization but also a model for ecological conservation and more sustainable tourism, attracting visitors from around the world to explore this gem that blends history and nature.

No. 3 of Family-friendly Attractions in Mexico

Xel-Ha Park

Xelha Water Park is a snorkeling-themed nature park whose name means "Wherethewatersareborn". It is located at the place where the freshwater underground river flows into the sea, so it is known as the world's largest natural aquarium with a wide variety of fish. Besides snorkeling, there are other activities such as rafting, rope walking and dolphin swimming.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Tulum

Coba Pyramid Ruins

Coba Pyramid Ruins are located deep in the tropical rainforest, with over 6,500 Mayan structures scattered throughout the jungle, and only a small portion have been excavated and restored. An important structure within the site is the 42m tallGreat Pyramid, Nohoch Mul, one of the taller structures in Mayan civilization. It is estimated that during its peak, there were about 50,000 inhabitants or even more, making it one of the larger Mayan sites discovered to date.

Zona arqueológica de Coba

The Zona Arqueológica de Coba is a sprawling urban site encompassing hundreds of buildings and cultural heritage sites. Among its most famous structures is a 42-meter-tall pyramid, which visitors can climb to admire the surrounding scenery and immerse themselves in the charm of ancient Mayan culture. In addition to the pyramid, there are numerous other buildings and cultural heritage sites, such as temples, palaces, and ball courts. These buildings all have unique designs and decorations, reflecting the artistic and architectural styles of ancient Mayan culture. Nearby, there are also several attractions worth visiting. For example, you can visit the nearby town of Tulum, a place rich in history and cultural heritage, with many ancient buildings and museums.

Two Eyes Cenote

Two Eyes Cenote is located in Tulum, Mexico, in the northeastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula, and is a well-known attraction near important late Mayan cultural sites. "Dos Ojos" means "two eyes" in Spanish, derived from the fact that it consists of two interconnected cenotes. It is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, offering activities such as cave diving, snorkeling, and freediving. Divers can explore this area and admire stalactites, stalagmites, and abundant underground life, such as freshwater jellyfish and cave shrimp. Snorkelers can also swim in the open water areas, enjoying the clear water and beautiful underwater view. Two Eyes Cenote, with its unique underground view and rich underwater ecosystem, has become an ideal place to explore the natural wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula. Whether you are a diving enthusiast or a nature lover, you can find your own adventure and tranquility here.

Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote is a stunning natural wonder located in a small town. Gran Cenote is a massive underground water cave known for its clear blue waters and spectacular limestone formations. Gran Cenote is a popular tourist destination that attracts many visitors to explore and swim. Here, visitors can swim through the cave's passages and admire the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. The water is crystal clear, allowing visitors to see the beautiful view of the underwater world, such as coral reefs, fish, and other aquatic life. In addition to swimming and exploring the cave, Gran Cenote also offers opportunities for diving and snorkeling. Diving enthusiasts can enjoy the unique underground rivers and cave systems here, which include several limestone caves and passages. The natural environment surrounding Gran Cenote is also very charming. Visitors can stroll through the surrounding jungle and admire the magnificent plants and wildlife. There are also some camping and picnic areas here for visitors to rest and relax.

Casa Tortuga Tulum

Casa Tortuga Tulum is located on a beautiful beach and surrounded by tropical rainforest, blending modern style with traditional Mexican elements. It also offers a wide variety of activities.

Cenote Nic Te Ha

Cenote Nic Te Ha is classified as an open cenote. It is characterized by a relatively wide opening, which allows sunlight to penetrate and promotes the growth of abundant aquatic plants.

Two Eyes Cenote