Tulum: The Boho Beach Town That Has It All

I became a flight attendant in my early twenties, and in 15 years of flying I visited a lot of beautiful places. But Tulum — with its ancient ruins perched above turquoise water, its jungle-lined roads, and its laid-back, barefoot-luxury vibe — is genuinely one of the most special places I've ever been.

It's also one of the most misunderstood destinations in Mexico. People either expect it to be like Cancun (it's not) or like a remote wilderness (it's not that either). Tulum is its own thing entirely, and once you understand what it is, you'll love it.

What Makes Tulum Different

Tulum sits at the southern end of the Riviera Maya, about 90 minutes from Cancun by car. Unlike the resort-heavy Hotel Zone of Cancun, Tulum is built around a long stretch of beach road lined with boutique eco-hotels, open-air restaurants, and yoga studios.

The vibe is decidedly bohemian — think linen pants, natural materials, candlelit dinners, and a general sense that you've stepped out of the modern world for a while. It attracts a creative, wellness-oriented crowd, and the energy is infectious.

The Ruins

The Tulum Archaeological Zone is one of the only Mayan sites built directly on a cliff above the sea, and the views are absolutely stunning. The ruins date back to the 13th century and were once a major trading port.

My tips for visiting:

• Go first thing in the morning when it opens (8 AM) to beat the crowds and the heat
• Hire a local guide — the history is fascinating and the context makes the experience so much richer
• After the ruins, walk down to the beach below for a swim in the clearest water you've ever seen

Where to Stay

Tulum's accommodation scene is unlike anywhere else in Mexico. Most hotels are small, eco-conscious properties built from natural materials, with open-air design and no air conditioning (yes, really — and it works).

My favorites:

Azulik — The most Instagram-famous property in Tulum, and for good reason. Treehouse-style villas built over the jungle, with no electricity and no Wi-Fi by design. It's a digital detox experience unlike anything else.

Nomade — A beautiful boutique hotel with a stunning beach club, excellent food, and a wellness program that includes yoga, sound healing, and meditation.

Be Tulum — More traditional luxury in a Tulum setting. Great for travelers who want the Tulum vibe with the comfort of a proper hotel.

The Beach

Tulum's beach is genuinely one of the most beautiful in Mexico — white sand, turquoise water, and a backdrop of swaying palms and jungle. The beach road runs parallel to the shore, and most hotels have direct beach access.

Important note: Tulum's beach has been significantly affected by sargassum seaweed in recent years. I always check current conditions before recommending specific properties. Some stretches are much cleaner than others.

Cenotes Near Tulum

Tulum is the cenote capital of the Riviera Maya. Some of the best:

Gran Cenote — The most popular, and deservedly so. Stunning stalactites, crystal-clear water, and excellent snorkeling.

Cenote Calavera — Also known as the "Temple of Doom" cenote. You jump in through one of three holes in the ceiling. Thrilling and beautiful.

Cenote Dos Ojos — A short drive from Tulum, this is one of the most spectacular cenote systems in the world.

Food and Nightlife

Tulum's restaurant scene is exceptional. Some highlights:

Hartwood — Open-air, wood-fire cooking, and one of the most celebrated restaurants in all of Mexico. Reserve well in advance.

Gitano — Jungle bar and restaurant with incredible cocktails and a magical atmosphere after dark.

El Camello Jr. — The best seafood tacos in Tulum, served from a no-frills spot near the ruins. Cash only, and absolutely worth it.

Getting Around

Tulum is spread out, and you'll need transportation. Renting a bicycle is the most popular option for getting around the beach zone. For longer trips (ruins, cenotes, town), taxis and Uber are available.

My Honest Take

Tulum is not for everyone. If you want a big resort with a swim-up bar and a DJ by the pool, go to Cancun. But if you want something more intimate, more beautiful, and more memorable — Tulum will capture your heart.

I fell in love with it on my first visit and I've been recommending it to clients ever since.