Where to Eat, Sleep, and Play in Tulum
Tulum is fast becoming one of the “go-to” Mexican destinations for many travelers. It’s easy to see why this Mayan city built next to the sea is so popular. It has a spectacular setting, and a laid-back, casual chic vibe that makes it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate.
Here is my personal rundown of how to best enjoy this Caribbean beauty.
Eat
This is a town that stays plugged in to it’s Mexican roots and Caribbean charms. You can find so many amazing restaurants here, that it becomes a foodie paradise. A few that top my list…
photo courtesy of Ralph Lauren magazine
The menu changes daily, the line is always long, and the food is guaranteed to knock your socks off. It’s an off-grid concept with a collection of tables underneath the stars. It tops many “best restaurants” list, and for good reason.
This hip and creative space mixes flavors from all over the world, and produces a truly innovative menu. This signature cocktails are also a big hit, and will properly prepare you for a night of dancing underneath the outdoor disco ball.
You are in Mexico, so why not get some authentic Mexican cooking? This establishment allows you to experience the beauty of slow cooking, and gives a sneak peek into some of the country’s ancient culinary traditions.
SLEEP
Tulum is not known for mega resorts and all-inclusives. You can find that in the other nearby destinations along the Riviera Maya. Come here for boutique properties with a ton of charm, and lots of character.
photo courtesy of Encantada Tulum
Encantada Beachfront Resort and Spa
This small, eco-friendly beachfront hotel has romance written all over it. The luxuriously rustic palapa style rooms are steps from the beach, and afford gorgeous views from private decks.
An upscale boutique eco hotel in the heart of Tulum’s south beach. It offers a variety of activities at the hotel and also at the sister hotel Cabanas Tulum Hotel. At this property you can take a cooking class, go for a bike ride, or quiet your mind and spirit with serene Yoga classes. Also, the private rooftop decks of the superior rooms are to die for.
Private villas with the intimate and friendly service of a boutique hotel. This hotel specializes in relaxation, attention to detail, and a focus on the guest experience. El Pez offers stunning and unobstructed views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the birds and sea life that call this area home. In addition, each day you can watch the Mayan fishermen expertly cast their nets in the waters just offshore.
Play
Yes, this is a beach destination. But there is so much more to spend your time on--should you wish--than just gazing out at the crashing waves. A few of my most recommended activities would be the following:
photo courtesy of cenote.org
Cenotes
Cenotes are natural swimming holes. They allow you to escape to a secret underworld of turquoise pools where Mayans communicated with the gods. At these hidden locations, you can swim in crisp mineral-rich waters in magical caves or under a jungle-framed sky and feel lost in another time.
Mayan Ruins
Along the coastline of the Riviera Maya, you can visit Tulum's Ruins. The ancient, mystical cities of Cobá, Ek Balam, and Chichen Itzá are also options for a day trip.
Yoga
There is no shortage of teachers or range of styles to enhance your connection to peace and tranquility through yoga in Tulum. Many places offer classes to begin or end your day in beautiful oceanfront yoga studios.
Nature
The Sian Ka’an reserve consists of lowland forest, flooded savannas, mangroves and a portion of the world's second largest coastal barrier reef. It is a perfect place to reconnect with nature through low-impact activities and to build respect and environmental awareness as well as sharing sustainability, preservation with the rural communities.
Tulum is such an amazing destination for a relaxing getaway, and also makes a terrific honeymoon destination. In fact, I just had a lovely couple return from their honeymoon in Tulum, and you can see their feedback of the experience in my TESTIMONIALS section. Contact me if you'd like to create your own tailor-made experience.