Tulum in Mexico is in the state of Quintana Roo, on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula. The Tulum Pueblo and the nearby Tulum Mayan Ruins are located in the heart of the Riviera Maya on the Caribbean Sea. Furthermore, Tulum is about 45 minutes by car south of Playa del Carmen and 90 minutes south of Cancun. And, like other towns and islands in the area, Tulum is located near the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second-longest coral reef system. Therefore, Tulum and its neighbors are in an ideal location with turquoise Caribbean waters, white sand beaches, and world-class snorkeling and diving.
History of Tulum in Mexico
Tulum was the Mayans’ last great city to be built and inhabited between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. It is a place of worship for the Great Descending God, whose image adorns the site’s temples. Tulum was also very important for sea trade, particularly for the trade of obsidian. Tribes from all over Mexico and Central America would come to this Caribbean port to trade. It is said that the great wall that surrounded the city was built to protect it from envious traders and pirates who wanted to take advantage of the prime location.
Tulum nowadays
Tulum, once a sleepy beach town with wandering yogis and artists, has grown into a thriving tourist destination. There are now modern luxury hotels and amenities available but don’t worry, there is still plenty of Mayan spirits to discover. Although crime rates have increased slightly in recent years, Tulum is still regarded as a relatively safe Mexican tourist destination. It is not plagued by gang-related violence, but petty crime and theft against tourists do occur on occasion. Despite the increase in crime, Tulum remains a popular tourist destination, and it is still possible to have a very safe and enjoyable visit if you exercise general caution. Avoid going out after dark, and be mindful of your surroundings.
Climate and hurricane season – Tulum in Mexico
Tulum’s tropical climate is fairly predictable and easy to plan around. With little variation in temperature throughout the year (the average temperature hovers around 83° F), most visitors focus on the rainy season.
January-April
The weather is ideal, but it attracts the most tourists. Consider this if you are not a people person. The ocean, cenotes, and unheated swimming pools can all be a little chilly for some.
May-October
The hottest and rainiest months of the year, but with plenty of sunshine and warm water for snorkeling and diving. Also, the hurricane season is at its peak in September and October, so keep an eye on the forecasts and, if possible, get travel insurance. Because there are fewer tourists during this time, you can usually expect lower rates at hotels, resorts, and tour companies.
November-December
Many people believe that the autumn and winter months are the best times to visit Tulum. By this time, the hurricane season has passed, and the humidity is low. In the evenings, it can get a little “cool.”
When it comes to the Tulum hurricane season, begins in late May and lasts until early November, with August and October being the busiest months. Although the chances of a hurricane hitting Tulum are low (less than a half-dozen hurricanes have hit the Yucatan Peninsula in the last 40 years), hurricanes passing close to the island can still cause inclement and severe weather. So it will be good to check weather forecasts and get travel insurance just in case.
How to get to Tulum in Mexico
Here’s how you can reach this amazing destination:
By plane
Tulum currently lacks an international airport (which will open in 2023! ), so visitors must first fly to Cancun airport and then travel 1.5–2 hours overland to Tulum.
By bus
The bus system in Tulum town is very accessible, and you can easily take a bus to Playa from the Cancun airport, then change buses to continue to Tulum. This is by far the most affordable way to get to Tulum from Cancun, although it isn’t the quickest.
By taxi
If you want to take a taxi to Tulum, they are available everywhere in Cancun and Playa del Carmen and will take you directly to your Tulum accommodation. Make sure to discuss prices ahead of time to avoid overcharging. Taxis from Cancun or Playa Del Carmen to Tulum are convenient but pricey.
Tulum in Mexico – Beaches
The Tulum area is a beach paradise, with long stretches of silky-smooth sand disturbed only by the gentle swishing of turquoise waters. As one of the world’s top beach vacation destinations, it only seems fitting that we compile a list of its best beaches. Choose your favorite or visit them all.
Playa Ruinas
It couldn’t get any more picturesque than this. The beach is set beneath dramatic cliffs, atop which are the well-known ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum. In addition, the beach is lined with swaying palm trees rooted in silky sands and overlooks a sparkling turquoise expanse. This is the place to be if you want a picture-perfect setting. Come early in the morning, before or after visiting the ruins, to experience this beach in complete solitude. The earlier you arrive, the more likely you will be alone on the beach, enjoying your own private oasis.
Akumal Beach
This stunning beach is 30 minutes from central Tulum and is perhaps best suited for families and travelers seeking a bit more activity. It’s more commercialized than other Tulum beaches, but the facilities it offers are more than enough to compensate for the crowds. There are numerous palapa-roofed bars and restaurants serving delicious food and drinks all day. The sea life around here is also incredible, with turtles frequently appearing. Bring some snorkels and get up close to them, but please, don’t touch them!
Secret Beach
Secret Beach is located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, where nature is as beautiful as ever. You can expect sparkling, crystal-clear waters and powdery-fine sand. Make sure to ask a local for detailed directions ahead of time, as it is not the easiest to find. The beach will take about an hour to reach by bicycle. Expect to be alone on the beach with a sunbathing iguana.
Paamul Beach
Paamul Beach is a very quiet place, mostly visited by locals. Therefore, locals frequently dine at the beach’s restaurant. But don’t worry because the food and margaritas are delicious. The beach doesn’t provide a parasol, towels, or a chair (so you should bring them). That’s part of its aesthetic, but it’s inconvenient. The snorkeling is also excellent around here, with vibrant reefs just beneath the waves. If you’re driving to the beach on your own, you’ll pass through a checkpoint. Just tell them you’re going to the beach and they’ll let you through.
Playa Pescadones
Playa Pescadores is a beautiful beach with clear, calm waters and insanely good ceviche. This beach, located just north of Playa Paraso, provides an enchanting view of Tulum’s ruins from the shoreline. With the gentle sound of the waves and the cool breeze, you’ll be in deep relaxation mode in no time. Turtle-watching and snorkeling tours are available from May to November. Try your hand at haggling, and make sure to compare prices from different guides. If you stay until early evening, you’ll often hear live music on the beach.
