Whether you’re seeking serene beaches, fascinating cenotes, or the trendiest hotspots, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive into the sun-soaked beauty of Tulum.

Dressing the Part: Embracing Boho Chic

Tulum’s vibe is all about relaxed boho chic. Pack a versatile wardrobe with sandals, skirts, rompers, shorts, tanks, and flowy dresses. Don’t forget bug spray and sunscreen – Tulum’s beauty is unmatched, but prices on the beach can be steep.

Where to Stay: Beach Bliss or Downtown Delight

In Tulum, you have two choices: the tranquil Tulum Beach or the vibrant Tulum Downtown, just a 20-minute drive apart.

Option 1: Tulum Beach Indulge in Instagram-worthy, high-end boho vibes. Imagine hotels right on the beach with hammocks, swings, and pools. Perfect for beach relaxation and partying.

Option 2: Tulum Downtown Affordable and authentic, Downtown Tulum offers a more local experience. Easily walkable and convenient for exploring.

Where we stayed:

• Dune Boutique Hotel– this is where we stayed. It was beautiful and the staff was so helpful and friendly in every way. When we first arrived they gave us a complementary drink at their bar. They decorated our room for my besties bday and it was lovely. They’re a smaller hotel that has everything you need for a perfect getaway. They can easily cater to your needs and requests. They have free bikes and locks that you can sign out and get around the area. They can make recommendations and suggestions for places around and it is beautiful there.

Transportation: Getting Around Tulum

• Happy Shuttle Transportation is who we used. They were great and you can purchase beer and snacks to be there for your hour drive to the hotel.

• Personal Driver: Hire a driver to explore cenotes and downtown at your own pace.
• Hotel Bikes: Dune Boutique Hotel offers free bikes for easy beach area exploration.

Must-Do Experiences: Exploring Tulum’s Gems

• Cenotes: Nature’s Hidden Wonders
• Cenotes are natural sinkholes created from limestone collapsing that expose groundwater.
  • Gran Cenote: Stunning and spacious, great for photos. (cost about $8/person about 15-20 min from the beach area)
  • Cenote Dos Ojos: Ideal for scuba diving.
  • Casa Tortuga Cenotes: A park with multiple cenotes.
  • Cenote Calavera: Skip the crowded ones and enjoy a rope swing and ladder.
• Sunset at Kin Tog / The Nest:
  • Timing: 5:30 PM – Arrive early! An exclusive experience with a floating nest, hanging bridges, ceremony, drinks, and stunning views. Tickets cost $50 and include the full experience, a drink, appetizers, a DJ, and a breathtaking view. Remember, they only accommodate the first 30 people. When your time is up in the nest- you could go down to the hidden bar “Mantli” for dinner. You can grab tacos and drinks and barely anyone knows about it. So it was almost like a private space for us!
• Pablo Escobar’s Mansion: Casa Malca
  • Once owned by Pablo Escobar, now a unique hotel, Casa Malca offers a breathtaking experience.
• Rose Negra: Beachside Revelry
  • Dive into a party vibe, complete with hookah, drinks, and a lively pool scene.
• Mayan Ruins: Historical Marvels
  • These ruins are a must-see for history buffs.
• Downtown Tulum: Authentic Souvenir Shopping
  • Head downtown for a dose of culture, affordable shopping, and local charm.

Where to Eat: Culinary Delights

Indulge your taste buds with Tulum’s diverse dining scene:

• Raw Love: Enjoy vegan delights and refreshing smoothie bowls.
• Matcha Mamas: Savor acai bowls and kombucha amid wooden swings.
• Gitano Tulum: A culinary adventure with a trendy ambiance.
• Kin Toh: An unforgettable dining experience – don’t forget to reserve.
• Macondo at Nomade Tulum: Discover enchanting flavors.
• Mi Amor: Perfect for a romantic dinner.
• The Heartwood: Reserve for an extraordinary dining experience.
• Arca: Delight in excellent food and make a reservation.
• Tantra: Unleash your inner party animal at this beach club.
• Nomads: Grab a reservation for lunch – you won’t be disappointed.

Money Matters: Currency and Bargaining

Bring around $250 USD in pesos for taxis, tips, shopping, and cenotes. Bargaining is common, especially in downtown Tulum. (or at least that is what we did and it worked perfectly)

Instagram-Worthy Spots: Capture the Magic

Don’t forget your camera for these picturesque Tulum stops:

• Giant Tree Man at Ahau
• “Follow that Dream” sign along the main road
• Giant Hand at Hun (perfect for a quick snap!)
• Azulik
• Dune Boutique Hotel
• Clan Destino Cenote Bar
• I Love Tulum So Matcha Shop

Sunni’s Tips for Tulum: Making the Most of Your Trip

• Local Attire: Embrace the laid-back boho vibe with skirts, rompers, and casual outfits.
• Bug Spray and Sunscreen: Bring your essentials to avoid hefty beach prices.
• Beach vs. Downtown: Choose between tranquil beachfront or vibrant downtown – or experience both!
• Transport Smart: Use Happy Shuttle for convenient airport transfers.
• Cenotes Exploration: Experience the magic of cenotes, but consider Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos for different vibes.
• Exclusive Sunset: Catch the stunning sunset at Kin Tog / The Nest, arriving at 5:10 PM to secure your spot.
• Dine with a View: Kin Toh offers not only exceptional food but also breathtaking views.
• Bargain in Downtown: Downtown Tulum is your go-to for authentic shopping and bargaining.
• Cash is King: Have around $250 USD in pesos for easy transactions.
• Capture the Memories: Seek out Tulum’s Instagram-worthy spots for unforgettable photos.

Conclusion: Embrace the Magic of Tulum

And there you have it, fellow explorers – your guide to the bohemian wonderland that is Tulum. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, diving into cenotes, or enjoying Tulum’s vibrant scene, remember to soak in the beauty and cherish every moment. If you’re looking for more inspiration, reach out to me on Instagram @sunnigetaways. Until next time, happy travels! 🌞🌴