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If you’re dreaming of sun-drenched days and a place to truly relax, Tulum is your paradise. With plenty of stunning beaches and tempting all-inclusive resorts, it’s easy to spend your time basking in the sun and forgetting the world beyond the shore. But Tulum is more than a beach destination – it is the gateway to the Yucatán Peninsula, where adventure, history and natural wonders await. Here are seven experiences you won’t want to miss.
Excursion to the Tulum ruins
No trip to Tulum is complete without a visit to the iconic Mayan ruins of Tulum. Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, this ancient city is the only Mayan site built by the sea, and it’s as breathtaking as it sounds. Originally known as Zama, meaning ‘City of Dawn’, Tulum was an important trading port at the height of the Mayan civilisation. As you wander through the well-preserved ruins, you’ll find yourself stepping back in time and imagining the bustling activity that once took place here.
After exploring the ruins, take the ancient steps down to the white sand beach below. The inviting Caribbean waters are perfect for a post-tour swim. But the adventure doesn’t have to end there.
Cenotes
The Yucatán Peninsula is blessed with cenotes – natural sinkholes that offer an enchanting glimpse into the region’s geological history. These stunning swimming holes are formed when limestone rock collapses, revealing crystal-clear groundwater below. To the ancient Maya, cenotes were sacred and believed to be portals to the underworld.
Today, cenotes are one of the most unique and refreshing ways to cool off in the Yucatán heat. Whether you’re floating in the calm waters of Cenote Dos Ojos or diving into the deep blue of Cenote Ik Kil near Chichen Itzá, each cenote offers a different experience. Cenote Suytun, with its photogenic platform, is a favourite for Instagram-worthy shots, while Cenote Azul is perfect for families, with shallow areas ideal for younger swimmers.
Rio Secreto, a memorable journey through an underground crystal museum and cenote.
To make the most of your cenote adventure, consider a rental car to create your own cenote-hopping itinerary. Combining a cenote visit with nearby Mayan ruins is a great way to experience the natural and plenty of the cultural wonders in the Quintana Roo area.
Day tours to Coba from Tulum
A short drive away on the Yucatán Peninsula are the lesser known ancient Mayan ruins of Coba. Nestled deep in the jungle, the Coba ruins offer a more immersive experience to history buffs than Tulum with fewer crowds. Climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid – the tallest in the Yucatán – for panoramic views as far as the eye can see. The climb may be steep, but the reward is a view that will take your breath away.
El Castillo at Chichen Itzá
If you’re going to get away from the beach for just one day, make it Chichen Itzá. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and for good reason. As you approach the site, the sight of the towering Temple of Kukulkan (El Castillo) rising from the jungle will stop you in your tracks. This 98-foot pyramid is an architectural marvel, with 365 steps – one for each day of the year – symbolising the Mayan calendar.
Chichen Itzá was once a thriving pre-Columbian city and its grandeur is still evident today. The Temple of the Warriors, with its thousand columns, and the smaller but equally impressive Osario Pyramid are must-sees. Be sure to visit the Great Ball Court, the largest of its kind in Mesoamerica, where the ancient Mayans played their high-stakes ball game. For a more immersive experience, consider a guided tour to learn about the site’s history, astronomy and the remarkable acoustics of El Castillo.
Where else to go near Tulum? Underrated Isla Contoy!
For those looking to get off the beaten path on their day trip from Tulum, Isla Contoy is an unspoiled island paradise. This small, protected national park is a sanctuary for wildlife, particularly birds. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed each day, ensuring that the island remains pristine and the experience intimate. A guided boat tour is the only way to reach Isla Contoy, and the journey is half the fun. Along the way, you might spot dolphins or sea turtles playing in the waves and rays gliding gracefully beneath the surface.
Once on the island, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush vegetation, white sandy beaches, and an abundance of wildlife. Isla Contoy is home to over 150 species of birds, including frigatebirds, pelicans, and herons, making it a bird-watcher’s dream. The surrounding waters are equally rich in marine life, making snorkeling a must-do activity. After exploring, take some time to relax on the untouched beaches, where the only footprints in the sand will likely be your own.
Valladolid, one of the best Mexico day trips from Tulum
Nestled between Cancun and Chichen Itzá, Valladolid is a charming colonial town that offers a taste of authentic Mexican culture and history. Often overlooked by tourists rushing to the beach or ruins, Valladolid is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit. The town is steeped in history, with its pastel-colored buildings, cobblestone streets, and grand colonial architecture serving as a reminder of its Spanish heritage.
Start your visit in the main square, where you’ll find the San Servacio Church, a striking example of colonial architecture. From there, explore the nearby Cenote Zací, right in the heart of the town—a perfect spot to cool off after a day of sightseeing. Valladolid is also home to several small museums, including the Casa de los Venados, a private home and museum showcasing one of the largest collections of Mexican folk art in the country.
On this day trip from Tulum, Don’t miss a visit to the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, a beautiful 16th-century Franciscan convent that offers a fascinating insight into the region’s history. As you stroll through Valladolid’s streets, be sure to stop at one of the local eateries to sample traditional Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil or lomitos de Valladolid. The town’s laid-back atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and proximity to several cenotes and archaeological sites make it a perfect day trip or overnight stop on your Yucatán adventure.
Sian Ka’an
For nature lovers, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is an absolute must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest protected areas in Mexico, encompassing over 1.3 million acres of tropical forest, mangroves, marshes, and barrier reefs. The name “Sian Ka’an” means “Origin of the Sky” in Mayan, a fitting title for a place where nature’s beauty seems endless.
Sian Ka’an is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, manatees, and over 300 species of birds. The best way to explore this untouched wilderness is by boat. A guided day trips from Tulum will take you through mangrove channels, where you might spot dolphins, sea turtles, and exotic birds. If you’re up for more adventure, head to the Muyil Archaeological Site within the reserve, where a hike through the jungle leads you to a tranquil lagoon. For those who prefer a self-guided experience, renting a car to explore the reserve’s southern reaches is an option, but be prepared for rugged roads and bring plenty of supplies. Sian Ka’an is a place to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature in its purest form.
Isla Holbox, one of the most fun day trips from Tulum
Separated from the mainland by ferry ride over a flamingo-filled lagoon, Isla Holbox is a haven for those looking to escape the crowds and embrace nature. This makes it one of the top day trips from Tulum and for good reason!
This car-free island is renowned for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and incredible wildlife encounters. One of the island’s biggest draws is the opportunity to go scuba diving with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea. From May to September, you can join a guided tour to swim alongside these magnificent creatures—a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s both exhilarating and humbling.
Holbox is also a paradise for bird-watchers, with over 150 species in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for flamingos, pelicans, and even the elusive roseate spoonbill. If you prefer to stay above water, kayaking through the mangroves or exploring the island’s secluded beaches by bike are great ways to soak in the natural beauty. And when it comes to relaxation, Holbox delivers in spades. The island’s unspoiled beaches are perfect for a day of sunbathing, while the charming town offers colorful street art, fresh seafood, and friendly locals who will make you feel right at home.
