Precariously perched on the edge of a tall cliff in the Mexican city of Quintana Roo and overlooking the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean ocean, is the tourist hotspot regarded simply as the Tulum Ruins. During its heyday and before the Spanish invaded, Tulum was a thriving port city due to its advantageous geographical location and fortified city walls. Some of the old stone structures still remain and they give us a glimpse into the past lifestyles of the Mayan people. Don’t forget your towel when you come here! Immediately South of the ruins is the picturesque beach aptly named Playa Ruinas where you’re bound to want to go for a swim.
As you may well already know, Tulum is renowned for having some of the best turquoise blue waters and white sandy beaches in the world! The tough decision for you though will be which beach to choose to spend your lazy day on! My close favourites include Akumal Beach (a quiet and less commercialised slice of paradise), Playa Ruinas (great to combine with a tour of the Tulum Ruins) and Playa Paraíso (aptly named Paradise Beach for a reason).
Contrary to popular belief, Mexican cuisine involves far more than nachos, tacos and guacamole! With several restaurants and eateries dotted along its streets and beaches, experiencing authentic Mexican food in Tulum takes it up a notch and your taste buds will certainly thank you for it! Expect to find Tostadas, Enchiladas, Chilaquiles, Pozole, Tamales and so much more! (We’re sure there’ll be some Tequila on offer too!)
On the outskirts of Tulum is the gorgeous island of Cozumel in the Carribean sea. With it’s white beaches, beautiful sunsets and the world’s second-longest coral reef system, Cozumels turquoise sea is the perfect location for snorkelling. Hop on board a ferry at Play del Carmen, only an hour’s drive from Tulum, and spend a few hours on the beautiful Cozumel!
Surrounded on all sides by nothing but lush rainforest and mangroves, this hidden gem in Tulum is a must see. Made up of two distinct shades of turquoise waters, the darker shade is a 75m deep Cenote (off limits to the general public), whilst the lighter shade is a knee-shoulder high lagoon suitable for swimming, snorkelling or simply just watching the world pass by.
Not all beach clubs are made alike! For the ultimate, relaxed hippie vibe amidst the lush Mayan jungle and the crystalline Caribbean Sea, look no further than Ahau Tulum. With a huge art installation at its entrance, you’ll be graciously welcomed into the new world you’re about to experience.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.