Magical Tulum

Tulum is a magical place located about 70 miles outside of Cancun. It is a vibrant city with International visitors, locals, and people that have moved there to soak in the yoga, surf, and good living lifestyle.

 I wonder why in all my trips to Mexico, I have never made it to Tulum. This was my first time visiting, and honestly, my favorite of Mexico's cities. It has the nightlife of Cabo and Cancun, but without the Spring Break crowd. It has a more adult, trendy feel. The beaches reminded me of the Caribbean, wide with soft sand, calm waves, palm trees, and gorgeously green and warm water. The shops are classy and expensive, and the restaurants are out of this world. Plus, you have jungles, cenotes, and ruins to explore when you have had enough sun.

I set up a shuttle for the ride from the Cancun airport to Tulum. There were many times during the trip, I wished that I had a vehicle, but with it being my first time and being a woman on her own, I choose the safe route. However, I noticed that Tulum has rental car companies, which would be my recommendation. I have heard stories of being pulled over between Cancun and Tulum, and they were on the scary side. However, once you get to Tulum, it is scattered with Cenote's (freshwater diving holes) all over, and it would be way easier to explore them without using a taxi. The favorite Cenote that I visited is across the street from the Car Wash Cenote.

Tulum is also famous for the Tulum Ruins located on a cliff overlooking the beach. I found them fascinating. There are other ruins situated a bit out of the city worth exploring. Forty-five minutes outside of Tulum is Coba, the ancient Mayan ruins shaped like a pyramid with a rope and steps so you can climb to the top. It is located in the heart of the jungle and is accessible by foot or bike. I recommend renting a bike when you get there because of the distance between the ruins. I heard if you get there early enough, you will see the wild Monkeys.

Places to Stay

Azulik: This treehouse outdoor paradise is both a restaurant and a hotel. Every inch of it is a combination of nature and luxury. I recommend making reservations as far out as possible for the hotel or the restaurant. One of the tables is a bird's nest, and you eat outside but feel like you are in the sky. It is one of the coolest restaurants and hotels I have ever seen. It looks like a movie.

If you are looking for more of the party scene and being close to the restaurants, shopping and nightlife, I recommend Beach Club, Hotel Tulum, or any on the south side of Calle Zona Arqueologica.

The beach to the north on the same street is quieter but still great access to the beach and the Ruins. Some of them are Mi Amor, El Paraiso, and Diamante K. 

I stayed at Jungle Keva, which is about twenty minutes from the beach. It is a stunning property. The showers are indoor/outdoor, plants and birds are abounding, and it is tranquil. It as well uses all-natural elements to feel like you are in the jungle. It is perfect for a honeymoon or a meditation or a yoga retreat. It is small, comfortable, has a staying in the jungle feel, and staff that makes sure you are safe and comfortable at all times. I would highly recommend it.

No matter what hotel you decide, you are in for a magical experience. The Mayans were smart people; I couldn't think of a better spot to settle.