Welcome to Tulum, where ancient Mayan history, bohemian vibes, turquoise waters and jungle-chic living collide. Once a sleepy backpacker beach town, Tulum has evolved into one of Mexico’s trendiest destinations; but it still holds plenty of magic, especially for explorers, architecture lovers, and cultural travellers.

Ancient Roots and Ruins by the Sea

Tulum was one of the last great cities built and inhabited by the Maya. Its dramatic clifftop ruins overlooking the Caribbean are not only photogenic but historically significant; a key trade hub and spiritual centre.

Wandering the Tulum Archaeological Zone, you’ll see:

The El Castillo pyramid with panoramic sea views.

Fresco-adorned temples dedicated to Mayan deities.

The remains of fortified walls that once protected this powerful coastal enclave.

This is architecture in its most elemental form; stone, sea and sky. 

A Town of Two Sides

Tulum is divided into:

Tulum Pueblo - the inland town where locals live, with street food, hostels and everyday life.

Tulum Beach/Hotel Zone – a long stretch of eco-resorts, yoga studios, boutiques and beach clubs nestled between the jungle and sea. Backpackers tend to favour the Pueblo for affordability and realness, while the beach zone caters to luxury, digital nomads and wellness seekers.

Eco-Architecture and Boho Design

One of Tulum’s standout features is its eco-conscious design aesthetic. You’ll find:

Thatched palapas and bamboo walkways.

Open-air spaces that blur indoors and outdoors.

Natural materials; wood, stone, palm, clay; crafted into elegant, Instagram-ready sanctuaries.

From boutique hotels to jungle cafes, architecture in Tulum feels grounded in nature yet globally inspired; think rustic meets minimalism with Mayan soul.

Cenotes & Natural Wonders

The Tulum region is dotted with cenotes; freshwater sinkholes ideal for swimming, snorkelling or simply marvelling at their mystical beauty. Highlights include:

Gran Cenote – great for beginners.

Cenote Calavera – with its famous “skull” openings.

Cenote Dos Ojos – a vast cave system for diving.

Also nearby is the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a protected UNESCO site rich in wildlife, mangroves and untouched coastline. I have marked most of the cenotes on the map so have a look around whilst you are here.

Food, Music & Nightlife

Tulum’s food scene is booming; from street tacos to fine jungle dining:

Try cochinita pibil, ceviche or wood-fired fish.

Vegan and wellness options abound, but so do hearty Mexican classics.

At night, the town switches gears. Pueblo bars serve mezcal and live music, while the beach hosts curated DJ sets, full moon parties, and barefoot dancing under the stars.

Spiritual & Artistic Energy

There’s a strong wellness and artistic culture in Tulum:

Daily yoga, sound healing, temazcal (Mayan sweat lodge) ceremonies.

Art installations, handmade crafts and earthy fashion fill the beach boutiques and open-air markets.

There’s a raw, creative spirit that continues to attract free-thinkers, makers, and nomads from all over the world.

Tips for Travellers

Transport - Rent a bike or scooter to easily move between beach and town.

Costs - Tulum isn’t as budget-friendly as it used to be; the beach zone can be expensive.

Sustainability - Support businesses that use solar power, compost toilets and local sourcing; Tulum’s rapid growth has put pressure on its fragile environment. I have speculated about this in a bit of an alternative post called 'Is Tulum really an eco destination' Have a read and let me know your verdict.

Safety - Tulum is generally safe during the day but at night it a bit of an animal where the police are not necessarily your friend. Do not walk home alone at night ESPECIALLY if you have had a few too many. Only take out your most basic form of ID to get you into where ever you are going, and take only the cash you need. 

Why Visit Tulum?

Tulum is more than just pretty beaches. It’s a place where ancient Maya, modern wellness culture, design innovation and natural beauty come together. Whether you’re here for ruins, cenotes, conscious living or Caribbean sunsets; Tulum has a unique rhythm that’s hard to resist. It’s one of those destinations where you come for a few days ... and end up staying a lot longer.