Once you arrive, authorities in the airport will likely take your temperature and give you hand sanitizer. New to Airbnb? If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP. • Taqueria La Eufemia: The best restaurant for Tulum Beach tacos, and a fun, festive atmosphere. When they finish, it’s customary to tip them at least $10-20 pesos ($0.50-$1). If you’re taking a taxi, note that you must agree on the fare before entering the taxi. Longer answer: As a general rule, the Yucatan Peninsula is considered safe, and the drive from Cancun to Tulum is also safe. Longer answer: Safety is a tricky subject — not just in Tulum, but everywhere — and that’s because safety is a feeling, not a fact. It is such a picturesque location! In fact, for solo travelers, Airbnb Experiences provide an easy way to meet other travelers! This site has a unique look, unlike all the others on this list, and as it’s slightly off the beaten path, you might have the whole place to yourself. Make sure you keep your eyes on the road, as topes don’t always have signs alerting you to them. Yes, they cost money, but they are much better maintained and generally considered safer. You’re in luck, because it sure is… and this article will tell you everything you need to know about safe travel to Tulum during the pandemic. I have many friends flying out to Tulum as one of the few places Americans can travel to this winter, for better or worse. • Ziggy Beach Club: One of the best low key beach bars, Ziggy’s is a locals favorite with a great Happy Hour. I have always wanted to go to Tulum! ☀️Book your stay at Coco Tulum Beach Hotel. Thanks for such a detailed and informative post, it’s great inspiration . While I’m not ready to travel yet, mostly because although I would be able to leave Canada it would be difficult getting back in without quarantining, if this goes on much longer I might have to think about doing something. There is a set of stairs that take you down to the beach if you are in the mood for a quick dip or just want to put your toes in that soft sand! Parking is non existent, and when you pay for it, the attendant plays dumb trying not to give you change from a $20 USD bill. Thank you! Besides the find, you’ll need to get to the airport an extra hour early to do the lost visa paperwork and pay… the bottom line: Don’t lose your FMM! I just hope everyone travels responsibly. Mexico’s traffic lights go from green to yellow, to flashing yellow for a few seconds, to finally, a red light. Tulum Beach is the Tulum you’ve seen in photos, and where you’ll find all the beautiful beach resorts, large-scale art installations, high end restaurants, cool bars, and all the Instagram worthy places in Tulum. The larger cabanas feature stunning open-air baths with tubs. Download an offline map. It is, however, not the prettiest place to stay of Tulum’s three neighborhoods. Helpful content! (Hint: No!). Discover Cars is a great option, with several Cancun Airport rental car options. Below is a list of the best hotels in Tulum, located on the beach. Az ulik Hotel Beach and Rooftop Bar. Looking to book a day trip from Mexico City? Pro tip: Make a reservation for all of these places. Tulum has a nice mix of casual-fine dining, and authentic Mexican food street eats. There’s a ton of great information in this post, it’s extremely helpful for anyone planning a trip. You are generally not covered in any way through your U.S. company when you drive in any other country. If the cops pull you over, and they only will if you give them a reason to, they will expect a cash “payment” in exchange for not ticketing you. If you opt for a room at La Zebra, you can also enjoy El Pez Tulum, Mezzanine Tulum Hotel and Hotel Mi Amor, the best adults only Tulum hotel. They are distinguished when the single road to the beaches from Tulum town splits at a roundabout. Loved it. For anyone who chooses to travel to Tulum right now, please do so respectfully, safely, responsibly, and in accordance with all Mexican laws. Thanks for all the great tips!! “for better or worse” is the correct phrase. As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, seeing Chichen Itza is high atop many travel bucket lists. They are really pushy and annoying. Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico below — it covers both Mexico beach packing and Mexico city packing. • Ek Balam: Those headed to the pueblo magico (magic town) of Valladolid, known as one of the most beautiful Colonial cities in all of Mexico, might want to add Ek Balam to the itinerary. On an Airbnb Experience tour, of course. Oh well. Pro tip: When visiting Coba, don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray. As mentioned, Tulum as a whole doesn’t have great WiFi… and yes, this even applies to the fanciest of 5 Star resort hotels on the beach. First Name. I don’t recommend to anyone visit Mexico, unless you are extremely patient and don’t mind being charged two or three times the value of the purchased item. The majority of things are open in Tulum, including the Mayan ruins near Tulum — Chichen Itza, Coba Pyramids and Tulum Ruins. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico. 5, Tulum 77760 Mexico, This beach is beautiful with sand and blue waves but there is too much crowds, too popular, too many beach clubs etc, Tulum beach stretches around the hotel zone in Tulum. Pro tip: You can not climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza. If that's not a deal breaker for you, then you'll love … I am DYING to get to Cenote Azul, it looks so beautiful and cant believe it’s so close to Downtown Tulum! Web Visit website. These people don’t actually work for the gas station, and live off tips. • Clan-Destino: Known for having the best burgers in Tulum, Clan-Destino restaurant also has a cenote you can jump in after eating. … There’s a whole page of this website dedicated to travel insurance, because it’s just that important — maybe even more so when traveling during the pandemic. Vow that is a perfect guide to Tulum. • Matcha Mama: Home to the famous I Love Tulum So Matcha sign on a surfboard, hit up this popular spot on Tulum Beach for both photos and a refreshing Matcha Mama matcha smoothie. You’re not alone. Try the cochinita pibil and lechon, and wash it all down with an agua fresca (fruit water), just like the locals do. Conservation Tiny Tulum goes from beach paradise to eco nightmare. Natural Feature. We have the privilege of inhabiting one of the most impressive beaches in Tulum. • I Scream Bar: I Scream is as much a feast for the eyes, as a feast for the stomach. To make a long story short, cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tay) are basically underwater sinkholes containing crystal-clear, freshwater. Great question; and the answer is of course, tourism dollars. Get directions. more, Browse our largest collection of experiences, Explore on your feet—and never miss anything. Open everyday from 9am to sunset, Ziggy Beach Club (next door to The Beach Tulum) is complete with sunbeds, rum-spiked coconuts and separate seating areas for hotel guests and visitors, making this a popular place for soaking up some rays. Tulum Ruins Guide For 2021 Mayan Ruins at the Beach Tulum’s Main Pyramid History Of The Tulum Ruins. I liked that you presented what we need to know before we go and then we can all decide whether to go or not. It is located deep in the jungle, about an hour from Tulum. Wondering if you can take Uber from Cancun to Tulum? © Reinhard Dirscherl / Alamy Stock Photo. Chill out on one of their beachfront hammocks and sip on a tropical adult beverage. The beach resorts and hotels are gorgeous, but there are a few cons to staying in them you should be aware of: First, the WiFi on Tulum Beach is well… not great, even at the most luxurious of resorts. The fact that the tours and pre-visit ticket sales are available on TA only adds to the confusion. Head up to the top floor deck and enjoy some Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks as you watch the sun set into the Tulum jungle. If you’re having to choose Chichen Itza vs Coba, many opt for Coba to avoid the crowds at Chichen Itza and because you can climb Coba’s pyramids. It's kind a Cancun or PDC hotel zone, but on a smaller scale. Hi Kat: Thanks for writing! Lots of great information for people who are wanting to travel there! I think it is time for a return trip. Use this map of Tulum so you can visualize the town layout. General info: Ziggy Beach opens every day from 9 am to sunset, Ziggy Beach Club (next to The Beach Hotel) is one of the most popular options in Tulum for soaking up some rays. For your convenience, there are 12 practical Mexico driving tips below to help you with how to drive in Mexico. Looking for the best Mexican beach towns? It is basically divided into Tulum Town (AKA Downtown), Aldea Zama and Tulum Beach. • Azulik: As far as Tulum beach hotels go, Azulik Tulum is the one that started all the hype. Mexico is one of the best countries for travel, Tulum Airbnbs: 11 Best Under $99 Options You Need to Book, Tulum Beach House Rentals: The 10 Best Airbnbs, Tulum On A Budget: 10 Ways to Make Your Trip Affordable, Mexico Solo Travel: 5 Ways to Stay Safe On Your Trip. Your posts are always so incredibly detailed and informative. Mmmm. When I plan my first ever trip to Mexico I will be reading every single thing you’ve written to plan it! Playa Pescadores. For those in the U.S. dying to scratch their wanderlust itch, and just a handful of countries allowing you entry, Mexico is one of the best countries for travel right now. Also, Aldea Zama is the newest area of Tulum, with most building at five or less years old. Weather-wise, fall/winter is the best time to visit Tulum. As you’d imagine the whole place is basically a work of art. I was fortunate to visit the Yucatan and Tulum in Feb. before the whole lockdown started. ☀️Book your stay at Nomade Tulum, • Coco Tulum: While staying at a Tulum beach resort doesn’t come cheap, Coco Tulum is known as one of the nicest of the less-pricey beachside resorts. I’ve never been to Tulum except via a Cruise decades ago. In Mexico, masks are legally required in all public spaces, so make sure you keep yours on inside the airport after you exit the plane. Girl I love your blog so much! Thank you for saying that… I know travel right now is such a grey area. I’ve been to Mexico City, but my next trip to Mexico I definitely want to visit an oceanside area. GITANO BEACH TULUM PRIVATE BEACH CLUB RESTAURANT, BAR & LOUNGE SET IN A PRIVATE BEACH COVE NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS SERVING LUNCH, SUNSET COCKTAILS AND DINNER OPEN DAILY 11AM — MIDNIGHT . You can get a rapid Covid test in Tulum at a few places, including Costamed and La Zebra Hotel. There is no Uber and there is no regular taxi there. Speed limit signs are in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. Does anyone know if these restaurants are open as normal? Wondering what to wear in Tulum? For those in the U.S. planning to travel during Covid, and just a handful of countries allowing you unrestricted entry, Mexico is very attractive for travel right now. Explore More of the Yucatan Peninsula by taking a Day Trip to Valladolid. If you do drive at night, stick to only main roads and highways. We went last year and loved ARCA, Hartwood, Posada Margherita, Rosa Negra. Your email address will not be published. As you can imagine, these beach resorts don’t come cheap, but if you want to splurge, or you’re traveling with a large group, Tulum Beach is the place. • El Camelo Jr.: Known for their fresh seafood plates and ceviches, El Camelo Jr. is a popular Tulum institution. Legally, yes; Tulum is open to travelers. RELATED BLOG How to Get Awesome Solo Travel Photos + 5 Free Presets, • Raw Love Tulum: Perhaps the most famous of Tulum’s large art pieces, the giant Ven a la Luz (Come Into the Light) sculpture by South African artist Daniel Popper, might as well be a postcard. 4. I also like that you presented some of the ethical dilemmas as well as updates on COVID 19. Besides all your summer-wear, you may use a light cardigan at night and comfy sweats to sleep in, but Tulum is the place for sundresses and bathing suits. Prices will vary, should generally be less than $300 pesos ($15) for a one-way ticket, which you can buy online here. Enjoy tacos and vegan ice cream by day, and one of the best Tulum bars by night. It would be SUCH a dream to go swimming in cenotes! Those in the know head to Gitano to eat one small tapas plate, and then indulge in their yummy mezcal cocktails in a beautiful beachy-garden setting. I’ve been itching to travel and thought maybe Mexico would be good for Winter but my hubby is still anxious about flying during covid. Love your blog Shelley! • Arca Tulum: Looking for a chef-driven restaurant? Look no further than Arca, led by Mexican/American Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza. • Hartwood: The “wood” in Hartwood is no lie (check out the photo above ⤴). This is a no-frills restaurant, and it’s all about the food. Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times? You’ll also have less (if any) rain, and Hurricane Season will be officially over! Keep reading to find out how to travel to Tulum right now, how to visit Tulum on a budget and not break the bank on your trip (Hint: These under $99 Tulum Airbnb options will help), where to stay and eat, and the best things to do in Tulum — from cenotes tours to bars, beach clubs to visiting the Tulum Ruins and Mayan pyramids! Although there are a few sub-beaches within the north one, Tulum town itself really only has two large beaches: the north playas (or “beaches,” in Spanish) and the south playa. ☀️Book your stay at Papaya Playa Project, • La Zebra: This beautiful hotel is part of the Colibri Boutique Hotels group, and they allow guests to enjoy the facilities at all of their properties. My home country is on lockdown right now but I will definitely go to Mexico when it’s lifted. Looking for unique places to visit in Mexico? Tulum was built to be a seaport fortress, with steep ocean cliffs providing protection from the East, and a large limestone wall enclosing the rest of the city on three sides. It is technically the busy season in Tulum, though because of Covid, you’ll be able to get some great deals on flights and accommodations, and stretch your dollar further (for now!). You probably came to Tulum for the beach. Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket. Posh eco place and definitely the most expensive that we have … • The Real Coconut: Commonly known as one of the best vegan restaurants in Tulum, it’s also located right on the beach and has some amazing views of the Caribbean Sea. This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to Immigration at the airport when you leave the country. When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Immigration line, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist visa. I can’t blame anyone… I’d love to lie on a beach or explore the surrounding cenotes, too! While there’s many amazing things to do in CDMX, there’s also many great Mexico City day trips. When you go to the. Tulum Beach near Casa Banana. As far as how to dress — anything goes — you can dress as casual or as extra as you’d like. You don’t have to worry about conversion math here; just make sure the speed limit sign number matches your speedometer number. The easiest way to see all of Tulum’s Maya sites and pyramids? Get directions. No visit to Tulum is complete without checking out some of the amazing beach clubs. ☀️Book your stay at Be Tulum, • Papaya Playa Project: This resort combines all things Tulum in one place for its guests. If you’re looking for a nice balance of comfort, luxury and savings, these Aldea Zama Tulum Airbnbs are better options… but if it’s your dream to stay in a Tulum beach resort — then just go for it! The negative test results must be dated within three-days of your flight. Tulum is an amazing mix of posh hotels, instagrammable art along the beach, boho chic beach clubs with oceanfront swings, gorgeous cenotes, amazing restaurants and cafes, fun bars, historic Mayan ruins, and more. RELATED BLOG Tulum On A Budget: 10 Ways to Make Your Trip Affordable. Mexico is one of the best travel destinations from the U.S. ⁠, RELATED BLOG The 25 Must See Yucatan Peninsula Travel Destinations. Thanks for a great post I’m saving for a later date. I live in Mexico & I’d love to share my locals’ knowledge so you don’t get sick in Mexico. There is so much helpful information I would love to visit Mexico, I’m craving beach and tacos. I can’t wait for travel restrictions to ease so I can visit Mexico again soon! Pro tip: You can still go in the resorts and take your Instagram worthy Tulum photos — even if you’re not a guest of the resort. Tulum (Spanish pronunciation: , Yucatec Maya: Tulu'um) is the site of a pre-Columbian Mayan walled city which served as a major port for Coba, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. However, there’s the obvious caveat to that…. Sign up with THIS LINK and get up to $20 OFF your first Airbnb Experience. 5. This blog post covers EVERYTHING! This is technically illegal, so have a mask in your bag at all times, should you need to quickly put it on. • Gitano: Sure, the food at Gitano, which means “gypsy” in Spanish, is delicious, creative and fresh — but this restaurant is all about seeing people and being seen. SIGN UP TO RECEIVE GRUPO GITANO NEWS & INVITATIONS. I’ve been a handful of times, so I can definitely see the allure. You’re in the right place because the Top 25 places are here — pinned to a Mexico Map for you! No, there’s no quarantine period upon arrival as of February 2021, though that could change at any moment. Here is everything travelers need to know about the new restrictions. Do not use your cell phone while you’re driving. New to Airbnb? When you live in Mexico long enough, you start to realize many people simply avoid driving at night, if they can. Outside of the party scene, there are tons of ambitious restaurants serving fine-dining and creative menus. ☀️Book your stay at La Zebra, RELATED BLOG The Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Printable Checklist. Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it; take a taxi or ride your bike in Tulum. Keep scrolling to see the four most visited Mayan sites near Tulum. You’ll want to, of course, follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below… you know, the same ones you would follow when traveling anywhere on Earth. Adding this to my list. It was quite busy the day we were there (High season in January). Secret Beach. Casual … Most cenotes are open, but at limited capacity, so plan to visit your must see Tulum cenotes early in the day. It is open every day from 9 AM till sunset. Gran Cenote, meaning “big cenote,” is a larger site with several cenotes that meander along the jungle floor, connected to one another by wooden walkways. Now that you know know how to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport, let’s get to know the town’s main areas so you can decide where to stay in Tulum. • Azulik Hotel: There’s so many instaworthy spots in Azulik — starting with the hotel’s shop right when you walk inside, and continuing all the way through to the nest tables at Kin Toh Restaurant. Downtown is on the north side of town, Tulum Beach is all the way south, and Aldea Zama is located between the two. The best way to see some of Tulum’s off the beaten path cenotes? Pro Tip: Take out some cash at a Cancun Airport ATM! make the reservation. Check it out with friends or as a couple from the comfort of our facilities. Short answer: Yes! 6. Delek has luxurious, well-appointed cabana suites, all built with sustainable practices using local labor and artisans. Head to Batey at night to hear live music and sip on one of their famous mojitos. While Playa Ruinas and Playa Paraíso typically grab the spotlight, venturing off-the … Hi Taylor: You are so right…. Everyone is trying to scam you for $, Taxis will ask for whatever amount they feel like, just to see if you will agree. Last Name. Beautiful white sand beach (Playa Pescadores) can be seen from the archeological ruins of Tulum where the cliffs overlook the beach. Try this Mexican food staple at Antojitos La Chiapaneca, a late night favorite in Downtown. Although I think it’ll be a while before I can make it there from the UK… The waiters, room keepers, drivers, bell boys are really pushy when it comes to tipping (“propina” as they say). However, as a general rule, Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula are considered quite safe! They also have their famous white swings, at one of the most instagrammable and best beach bars in Tulum. They tried to overcharge me, then I decided to talk to a taxi driver which was delivering some people, so that he take me back downtown when he was traveling back on his only route. Mexican roads are notorious for their abundant amount of topes (speed bumps). • Chichen Itza: Does Chichen Itza need an introduction? Even the government ran sites make it appear that Tulum and Coba are open and the only one closed in the Yucatan is Chichen Itza. RELATED BLOG ✈️ Tulum On A Budget: 10 Ways to Make Your Trip Affordable, As of January 26, you are required to have a negative Covid test to return to the U.S. Pro tip: Bring cash for the tolls. 11. While tacos and Mexico go together like milk and cookies, tacos aren’t actually a Yucatan food. Here is a brief summary for Tulum: Overpriced restaurants with average food at best. It is about 75 miles south of Cancun, and 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen and Rivera Maya. 3. I think I would want to stay on the beach , since I see beach so rarely living in Kentucky. This fast-paced half-day adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers who just have one day in Tulum and want to see as much as possible. So now we wait some more….. A place in paradise. Most travel insurance policies cover driving. The Cancun Airport is the best place to rent a car because all the big name companies have locations there — and you only want to use a reputable company! I visited Tulum 14 years ago. Scroll down for 12 Useful Mexico Driving Tips. RELATED BLOG ✈️ Mexico Solo Travel: 5 Ways to Stay Safe On Your Trip. Coco Tulum is the ultimate all white eco resort, where you can stay at a private beach shack right on the beach. Aside from hurricanes and petty crime, Tulum is a safe place to travel solo and with a group. Cenote Zacil-Ha has plenty of nice onsite amenities like covered/shaded areas, bathrooms and snacks for sale. posted by Shelley | last updated February 3, 2021. First off – there's no electricity at Azulik. In fact, some of the best ruins in Mexico are located in and around Tulum, and in the Yucatan. Since you will be driving in another country, you should take the time to familiarize yourself with Mexico driving laws, or ask the agent at your car rental for advice. Once you arrive in Downtown Tulum, walk outside and grab a taxi to your accommodation, or if it’s close by, you can walk. This beach club in Tulum is part of the Maria Del Mar hotel (Casa Banana group), and it’s open every day from 7.30 – 10.30 pm. A rental car, of course. Since Aldea Zama is more residential, you’ll often get better WiFi and a very nice place for about 25% the cost of a Tulum beach resort. Aloft Tulum, a new 140-room boutique hotel located halfway between the resort destination’s downtown area and its beaches, opens February 1. Minimum consumption between December … 7. UPDATED: May 2018. Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to pay. Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. No waves. Just the ones with “different pre arranged prices” (twice or three times of what they charge outside). Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t take drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended near one. • Taqueria Honorio: Where the locals go to eat the best tacos in Tulum. Beautiful white sand beach (Playa Pescadores) can be seen from the archeological ruins of Tulum where the cliffs overlook the beach. Plenty of … I hope I navigated the minefield well, I really want to go to Tulum!! *Keep in mind legality and enforcement are two different things. In 2015, Hinostroza brought his skill to Tulum, and opened this foodie favorite. Are the prices for this place or activity, Is this a must-do if you are traveling with a, Is this a romantic place or activity that you would suggest for, Carr Tulum Boca Paila Km 7. We can see and swim in them because the limestone once covering the water has collapsed and/or eroded throughout Earth’s existence. However, there're many beach vendors so I much more liked the Paraiso beach. • Mateo’s Mexican Grill: Mateo’s is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Tulum! Affiliate links cost you nothing, and help keep my content free! I started this Blog and Podcast to help women like you cross Solo travel and Mexico travel off your bucket list… READ MORE, This page may contain affiliate links, meaning when you make a purchase, I make a small commission. Your signal will go in and out as you travel through rural areas of the Yucatan Peninsula, so download an offline map from Google or Maps.Me. Really, there aren’t all that many great bars in Downtown Tulum, but Batey’s would still be the coolest even if there were. If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you’re considering the bus, know this is a luxury class bus with big reclining seats, AC, outlets to charge your phone and a bathroom — this is not a “chicken bus.” Mexico’s buses are great, comfy and inexpensive, and in fact, if you’re traveling to Tulum on a budget, the bus is the cheapest way to get to from Cancun to Tulum. Great post. I had a really bad experience trying to get out of the airport.