42 Best Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico: Mayan Ruins, Cenotes & Adventures
Scrambling up Mayan ruins, kayaking through mysterious mangroves, and swimming in cenotes – it’s just another day in Tulum paradise. Whether you’re a sun worshiper looking for that idyllic slice of sand or an adrenaline junkie after jungle adventures, Tulum is waiting to welcome you.
There are so many exciting things to do in Tulum that it can be tough whittling down your options. So, we’ve done the hard work for you with this carefully curated list. Which ones float your boat?
1 – Paddle through Sian Ka’an by kayak
Delve deep into this biodiverse World Heritage Site as you head off on an intrepid kayaking mission. You’ll be exploring the ancient trading routes as you paddle stealthily through the mangrove maze and across the tranquil lagoon.
The Sian Ka’an Reserve is home to everything from crocodiles and sea turtles to ospreys and iguanas, so keep your camera handy. No previous kayaking experience is required.
2 – Explore Tulum Archaeological Zone
Perched majestically above the Caribbean Sea, the Tulum Archaeological Zone should be at the top of your to-do list. This former Mayan commercial hub is beloved by visitors thanks to its photogenic credentials.
You can wander around the ancient walled fortress, admiring the pyramids and trying not to stumble over sunbathing iguanas! Take your swimming gear if you fancy a dip at the secret beach.
3 – Dive into jungle cenotes
Hidden away in the tropical Yucatán forests are thousands of mysterious jungle pools. Dos Ojos, Sac Actun, and Gran Cenote are some of the easiest to visit.
These freshwater cenotes mark the entrance to a vast network of underground waterways – a world we know very little about. You can go scuba diving through the submerged caverns, marveling at rock formations and blind fish that live in the dark.
4 – Snorkel with tropical fish
The tranquil Caribbean waters surrounding the Tulum peninsula are perfect for a spot of snorkeling. Pull on your mask and discover the magical marine kingdom that lies below the waves.
Sea turtles and colorful fish will be your constant companions as you float over the second largest coral reef in the world. For something a little different, head into the jungle and enjoy surreal snorkeling in a cenote.
5 – Travel back in time at Chichén Itzá
Looking for your jungle temple fix? Then get yourself to Chichén Itzá for some serious pyramid bragging rights. This is one of the top archaeological sites in Mexico and the place to go for a dose of Mayan magic.
Don’t leave without visiting El Castillo and the Temple of the Warriors! If you want to explore without the crowds, plan on getting here early.
6 – Discover the Muyil ruins
Also known as Chunyaxché, the archaeological site of Muyil is the real deal when it comes to temples. The stone pyramids blend in with nature, and you’ll even find some that have been taken over by tree roots.
There are trails to explore, and the chances are you’ll have them to yourself. The complex sits beside the Sian Ka’an lagoon and there’s an observation tower offering superb views.
7 – Whiz through the trees on a zip line
There’s nothing so freeing as flying through the forest canopy. Luckily, there are several zip lines not far from town, making this one of the easiest yet most adrenaline-inducing things to do in Tulum.
Do you dare to strap into a harness and swing off through the trees like a modern-day Tarzan? On some routes, you can slide over cenotes, and enjoy a dip afterward.
8 – Scramble up temples at Coba
Mayan Temples look the part from the ground, but if you want to climb one, come to Coba. The sides are steep, but the effort is worth it as you emerge at the top, feeling like a regular Indiana Jones.
Coba is more remote than Chichén Itzá which means it’s a lot quieter. This site is yet to be fully excavated so it has a delightfully wild vibe.
9 – Venture into Tankah Cenotes Park
Are you up for a jungle adventure? Tankah Cenotes Park is your passport into the mystical world of these beautiful forest pools. Connect with nature as you hike through virgin tropical forests and immerse yourself in culture at the Mayan village.
It gets hot here so cool off with a swim in some of the cenotes. There are diving platforms and zip lines for courageous souls.
10 – Visit Parque Nacional Tulum
Tulum National Park was established back in 1981 as a protected natural zone. It seeks to preserve the Mayan ruins and the surrounding ecosystems along this stretch of the Caribbean coast.
The highlight of this mini park is the archaeological site, but you can explore the ancient Yucatán forest here too. Don’t leave without visiting the beach – it’s one of the best in the region.
Directions in Google Maps
11 – Harness the wind on a sailing adventure
Enjoy life on the ocean wave as you sail around sparkling lagoons and slice through the sea on board a luxury yacht or catamaran.
Discover what lies beneath these tropical waters as you enjoy stops for swimming and snorkeling. Then dry out on deck with a tasty lunch and cool drinks. It’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Tulum.
12 – Drive an ATV through the jungle
Bounce around on forest tracks and slide across muddy pools as you zoom through the jungle on an ATV tour. Keep the momentum going as you race along hidden trails in search of new adventures.
Seeing the Riviera Maya under your own steam is heaps of fun, and an excuse to let your hair down. Wash off the dust with a refreshing dip in a cenote.
13 – Sail into the sunset
Head into the balmy evening on board a yacht for one of nature’s most mesmerizing shows. The lush Caribbean coast looks sublime from the water, but the best is yet to come.
Drop anchor in a tranquil lagoon and relax on deck with drinks and a light dinner. Then watch in awe as the sun sinks into the ocean, followed by a celestial sky of stars twinkling above.
14 – Rappel into a cenote
Be like the explorers of old as you discover the jungles of Yucatán like never before. You’ll be descending cliff faces into hidden caverns, getting up close with the forest foliage, and discovering places few visitors ever see.
Don’t look down as you lower yourself through the canopy using ropes, taking rappelling to a whole new level. The views and the buzz are out of this world.
15 – Give kitesurfing a whirl
Embrace the wind and skim across the top of the ocean as you have a blast during a kitesurfing session. Don’t worry if it’s your first time, you’ll enjoy a lesson with a professional instructor before tackling the water.
Then it’s time to show off your new moves, jumping between waves and flying through the air. You will be getting wet, but that’s all part of the fun.
16 – Snorkel with whale sharks
Ever wondered what it’s like to swim alongside the largest fish in the world? You can do that right here on the Riviera Maya. These gentle giants arrive to enjoy the warm Mexican waters between May and September.
Diving with whale sharks is a humbling experience, and seeing them glide past just meters away is a moment that will stay with you forever.
17 – Surf along tropical shores
Riding the waves along the Caribbean coast is one of the most thrilling things to do in Tulum. You’ll start with a quick lesson on the beach to learn the key moves, and discover how to read the ocean.
Next up is the real deal as you plunge into the warm sea and put your new skills to the test. It’s heaps of fun for beginners and pros alike.
18 – Take a day trip to Playa Del Carmen
The resort town of Playa del Carmen is the playful hub of the sun-soaked Mexican Caribbean. Tropical seas and powdery beaches combine with a buzzing restaurant and nightlife scene for a truly hip vibe.
Head to 5th Avenue to shop for colorful handicrafts and to visit chic art galleries. Then get the party started with tacos and tequila at one of the famous eateries.
Check out our selection of fun things to do in Playa del Carmen.
19 – Explore Xcaret Park
The opportunities for fun in the sun are endless at the family-friendly Xcaret Park. There are over 50 natural attractions to discover, so you might need a couple of days here!
Immerse yourself in culture at the folk museums and visit the aquarium for an introduction to Mexico’s marine life. Then marvel at ancient Mayan ruins poking through the forest and head underground to swim in a secret river.
20 – Encounter dolphins up close and personal
Dolphins are the most lovable sea creatures and getting to know them in a controlled environment is the experience of a lifetime. You can enjoy several interactive programs at Dolphin Discovery, and observe your new friends at close quarters.
They’ll be jumping, dancing, and even shaking your hand as they perform their best tricks. The icing on the cake is a thrilling dorsal tow.
21 – Enjoy a day trip to Cozumel
The tropical island of Cozumel lies just off the coast of Playa del Carmen. Renowned for its coral reefs and white beaches, this largely undeveloped oasis is a world away from the bustling mainland.
Diving and snorkeling here is superb, while the lush interior entices adventurers looking to explore jungles and ruins. Pop into the museum for your historical artifact fix.
22 – Go on a stand-up paddleboarding adventure
Dip your paddle into the turquoise waters and relish the silence as you glide along the peaceful lagoon. It doesn’t take long to pick up the basic paddleboarding principles, so you’ll be off exploring in no time.
Keep your eyes peeled for tropical fish darting beneath your board, and float along hidden creeks in search of native wildlife.
23 – Take a tasty food tour
Of all the things to do in Tulum, this is the most delicious! You can learn a lot about a place through its food, and Mexican cuisine is a huge part of Tulum’s culture.
Join a food walking tour, stopping to savor unique local flavors along the way. Tuck into street stall tacos, drink fruit juice in the market, and devour some of the best tamales in town.
24 – Learn how to cook your Mexican favorites
Pull on your apron and rustle up a storm in the kitchen as you jump headfirst into a Mexican cooking class. Discover the secrets behind those mouth-watering local dishes and make notes so you can try recreating them back home.
First, you’ll shop for fresh ingredients at the market, before tackling recipes for guacamole and ceviche. Try not to eat it all as you go along!
25 – Discover a secret oasis at Bacalar Lagoon
The colors of this inland freshwater lagoon have to be seen to be believed. Radiant blues and greens vie for your attention in the dancing sunlight, while soft white sand charms your toes.
Bacalar Lagoon has a laid-back vibe, thanks to being well off the beaten tourist trail. You can laze in hammocks, go kayaking, or sail along the waterway – the choice is yours.
26 – Swim and slide at Xel-Há Park
You’ll have a whale of a time at the all-inclusive Xel-Há Park, with enough lazy rivers, waterslides, and zip lines to keep everyone happy.
Swimmers and snorkelers will be in seventh heaven, exploring hidden coves and jungle cenotes that lead to the Mayan underworld. Find out what lives in the mangroves and soak up the 360˚ views from the 131-foot-high lighthouse.
27 – Pedal along tropical trails on a bike tour
Get on your bike and explore the quiet roads and forest trails around Tulum. You’ll cycle through rural villages giving you the chance to learn more about local Mayan culture and traditions.
Back in the lush jungle, there are secret caves and freshwater cenotes to be discovered. Enjoy a cooling swim in one of the pools as a reward for all your hard work.
28 – Slumber in paradise at Azulik villas
One of the most sought-after things to do in Tulum is a stay at the quirky Azulik Villas. This is a place where you can reconnect with nature in a magical coastal setting.
The villas themselves are works of art, crafted from sustainable local materials with dreamy beach-chic interiors. Some have a private plunge pool overlooking the ocean, while hammocks and swings come as standard.
29 – Discover art at the unusual SFER IK Museion
Calling all creatives and aspiring artists, this is the place to come for a serious dose of inspiration. SFER IK Museion is an interdisciplinary space at Azulik showcasing exhibitions from some of the finest creators in the world.
There are artisanal arts and crafts workshops to try, and you can wander around the unconventional architecture gallery which is whimsy in its truest form!
30 – Tuck into Mexican delicacies at La Coqueta
Happiness and color are the themes at La Coqueta, a much-loved Tulum restaurant specializing in iconic Mexican dishes. Relax with your friends in this buzzing open-sided eatery and share some of the town’s most popular dishes.
Try the Mayan-style fish tacos and toasted octopus or get stuck into some spicy chicken fajitas. Then wash it all down with a margarita or two.
Directions with Google Maps
31 – Dine in style at RosaNegra Tulum
This bohemian restaurant really comes alive at night, with artisan lamps and flickering candles setting the scene for a romantic evening out.
RosaNegra has a glamorous yet rustic feel, and wouldn’t be out of place on the cover of a glossy design magazine.
The gourmet food matches the ambiance, with Wagyu beef steaks, giant tiger shrimp, and wild scallops all making an appearance.
32 – Chill out at Playa Paraiso Beach Club
A visit to Tulum wouldn’t be complete without a day relaxing at a beach club. Playa Paraiso is one of the hottest postcodes in Mexico when it comes to a beachside setting.
It’s just steps from your sun lounger to the ocean, with fruity cocktails and bowls of fresh ceviche on hand to keep your energy levels topped up. Get there early to bag your spot.
Directions in Google Maps
33 – Take a street art tour
The street art scene in Tulum is thriving, with vivid murals and paintings giving an intriguing insight into local Mexican culture.
Discover the wildest gallery in Tulum on the Holistika art walk, where surreal displays and sculptures by famous creators draw you into nature. This is a fun way to lift the lid on Mexican folklore, and you’ll see parts of Tulum that most visitors miss.
34 – Play a round at the Riviera Maya Golf Club
Have you ever played golf in a jungle?
The immaculate course here has been cleverly integrated into the Mayan forest, and the waterways are real-life cenotes!
Just 15 miles outside Tulum, the Riviera Maya Golf Club is one of the top sporting venues in Mexico. Come here to practice your swing in a rugged setting and enjoy the magnificent views.
35 – Go on a bohemian shopping spree
The sleepy boho town of Tulum is a shopper’s dream, with enough independent boutiques and hippie clothing stores to enchant even the freest of spirits.
Inspired by the tropical seas and rustling palm trees, the designers here have infused the very heart of Tulum into their unique creations. Shop for flowing kaftans at Caravana, Mayan-themed jewelry at Caló, and vintage scarves at Josa.
36 – Eat out at La Zebra Beach Restaurant and Bar
Discover the very essence of Mexico as you dig into plates of delicious tacos and cheesy quesadillas beside the beach.
La Zebra boasts one of the best sea views in town and is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. If you want to take a culinary journey through Mexico, this is a great place to start.
37 – Enjoy a bird’s-eye view from the Tulum Tower
Challenge the way you see the world with a visit to the Tulum Tower.
Ascend this space-age structure for unsurpassed views of the archaeological ruins and the Mayan Riviera.
Sitting in a seat 35 meters up in the air is certainly one of the more unusual things to do in Tulum. Enjoy the view and get those cameras clicking.
38 – Taste the difference at Burrito Amor
The food at Burrito Amor has a conscience. If clean eating and authentic ingredients get your taste buds tingling, then reserve your table for one of the top culinary experiences in Tulum.
With healthy dishes and plenty of Paleo and vegan options, this is guilt-free dining at its finest. Highlights include the organic gourmet burritos and the freshly baked banana muffins.
39 – Relax on Akumal Beach
Akumal is one of the jewels of Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, with some of the finest white sand on the peninsula. Named after the turtles that call these shores home, Akumal is a haven for snorkelers and divers.
You can swim over reefs in the picturesque bays and hang out at the beachside bars when you get thirsty. Popular but never crowded, Akumal might just become your new favorite haunt.
Directions in Google Maps
40 – Sip cocktails at the Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar
The expertly mixed mojitos at this chilled drinking hole draw thirsty visitors from far and wide. Stick with the old faithful of lime, mint, and rum, or be adventurous and try local specialties like prickly pear or cucumber basil.
Drinks at the Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar are served from a repurposed VW Beetle, with inventive Italian tapas on hand to keep hunger at bay.
Directions with Google Maps
41 – Dine and dance at Casa Jaguar
Spending time at Casa Jaguar is one of the coolest things to do in Tulum. Part restaurant, part cultural center, this enchanting venue is styled like an upmarket jungle hut.
Boogie away at the famous jungle parties and check the event schedule for the latest cultural exhibitions. Dining here is a must, with culinary voodoo and intoxicating décor transporting you into the mystical Mayan realm.
42 – Relish peace and pasta at Posada Margherita
Just meters from the ocean, Posada Margherita is one of Tulum’s finest boutique hotels and restaurants. This peaceful sanctuary is your chance to escape from the bustle, where good food and welcoming Italian-inspired hospitality rule.
Tired of tacos? Then try the fresh pasta made from a secret family recipe in the rustic restaurant. Gelato flavored with coconut from their own palm trees sweetens the deal.
So, there you have it, all the very best things to do in Tulum. Which ones are going to have pride of place on your itinerary?
Check out the best Tulum hotels in advance as this is one of the most popular places to visit in all of Mexico, and rooms do sell out.
Make sure you organize your airport transfers too, so you avoid the hassle of having to arrange transfers on arrival.
As always, happy travels!
