Exploring Tulum: A comprehensive guide for young travellers in Tulum, Mexico
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Tulum, Mexico with my curated guide designed specifically for young travellers! Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy and breathtaking beauty of this coastal paradise. Discover cultural sites, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in the local cuisine. Thi guide takes you on a journey through Tulum's must-visit attractions, from exploring the iconic Tulum Ruins to snorkelling in the crystal-clear cenotes. Experience the bohemian charm of the town's trendy boutiques, art galleries, and (very) lively nightlife scene. Sample authentic Mexican street food and sip on refreshing cocktails at beachfront bars. With insider tips and recommendations, this guide ensures you make the most of your time in Tulum. Get ready to create lifelong memories as you dive into the unique blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation that Tulum has to offer!
86 Places • 6 Saves • ago
Free

This guide was created in collaboration with Samantha McKee :)

A beautiful soul and traveller with a deep knowledge of Tulum and everything this magical place encapsulates:

Sam's instagram: 

Sam and I are part of What You Didn't See, led by talented creative and co-founder, Ayesha Taylor.

In her words:

”WYDS is a collaborative production company based in the City of Toronto.

Our vision is to lift Toronto’s uniquely talented artists, businesses, establishments, and events in a way that showcases their true passion and potential.

WYDS brings new opportunities through its artist collective to collaborate and create something fantastically different.”

Check out our site and instagram below :

Things to keep in mind :

Before embarking on a trip to Tulum, Mexico, it's essential to consider a few points.

Research the local weather; Tulum experiences a tropical climate, and the rainy season, from June to October, can sometimes lead to flooding.

The weather in Tulum right now: 

While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, some knowledge of Spanish could really enrich your experience, especially in more remote areas.

Embrace the local cuisine, the food is just too good not to, but also remember to stay hydrated and avoid tap water.

When exploring, be careful to respect the local ecosystem, especially the fragile and sacred cenotes. 

Finally, although Tulum is generally safe for tourists, it's wise to stay alert, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Now that we got all of that covered, let's get onto the guide : 

Where to stay.

Areas:

La Veleta:

A tranquil, up-and-coming neighbourhood known for its chic boutiques, trendy eateries, and laid-back, bohemian vibe.

Add to
Details

Tulum Town:

More budget-friendly and gives you a local vibe. It's a short drive to the beach and you'll find plenty of shops and restaurants. 

Tulum Centro
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Beach Zone:

Ideal if you're looking for a beach holiday. It's more expensive but waking up to the sound of waves is worth it.

Add to
Details

Accommodation.

Hotels:

Add to
Details
Cormoran Boutique Hotel
@Leastraveldiaries
Great hotel attached to an insanely beautiful cenote, really affordable for Tulum
Add to
Details
Posada Lamar
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Sonido del mar hotel & yoga
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Hostels:

 If you're travelling on a budget and want a social atmosphere.

Add to
Details
Selina Tulum Downtown
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Airbnbs:

Tulum has a wide range of Airbnbs, from beachfront apartments to jungle hideaways. Great if you're looking for a more local experience.

MISTIQ Tulum Condominium
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

The listing we booked our stay through: 

Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Yaxtè Maya Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
PalAlma Tierra
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
PANACEA CONDO TULUM
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Grab a bite.

Breakfast and cafes :

Potheads restaurant
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Once Tulum | Restaurant, Bar & Coworking
@Leastraveldiaries
Good breakfast. good work spot. cafe vibez - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Italdo
@Leastraveldiaries
One of my fav breakfast spots. croissants are insane - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Vaivén /Drinks & Food
@Leastraveldiaries
Everything is homemade and absolutely delicious, their cacao smoothie is insane.
Add to
Details
BOTANICA Garden Cafe
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Vereda del Abasto
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

Restaurants 

Sukhothai
@Leastraveldiaries
Hands down the best Thai food in Tulum, the pad Thai is just chef's kiss
Add to
Details
Palma Central
@Leastraveldiaries
In town (every Tuesday is salsa night / unless that changed. but it’s a place with a ton of awesome food trucks and a bar - and a centre place where there’s either vendors or dancing) - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Billy Bob Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Best Tacos Pepe
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
La Guarida
@Leastraveldiaries
Tulum’s well-known spot. insane vibes, set up like a treehouse. good food, games. working spot. live music sometimes - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
La Taqueria
@Leastraveldiaries
Great vibes for lunch or dinner. Mexican restaurant. They have table games. Good for groups. More social. - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
TacoBish
@Leastraveldiaries
Lovely human names Florentina runs it. Just a beautiful sit-down taco spot
Add to
Details
La Pizzine
@Leastraveldiaries
Best vibes, good pizza. great dinner spot any day. They have markets every other Sunday with music art and vendors) check out @vazaar_tulum to see when the markets are
Add to
Details
Raum Gallery
@Leastraveldiaries
Attached to La Pizzine, ramen and more. BEAUTIFUL atmosphere
Add to
Details
La pebeta
@Leastraveldiaries
Argentinian breakfast - ham and croissants are bomb
Add to
Details
CANOVA cantina
@Leastraveldiaries
THE BEST ITALIAN FOOD. Ask for a garden table :)
Add to
Details
Ukami Veleta
@Leastraveldiaries
Japan meets Mexico. specialty rolls. SO GOOD
Add to
Details
Burrito Amor
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Mistico Garden La veleta
@Leastraveldiaries
Hookah lounge with great food and atmosphere
Add to
Details

Plant-based

Seedling | Plant based & gluten free store | Cold Pressed Juice Cleanses
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Raw Love Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Raw Love Town
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Casa Vegana Mexican Green
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Laylo Tulum Vegan Lounge
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Grab a drink

Bars :

La Pizzine
@Leastraveldiaries
Best vibes, good pizza. great dinner spot any day. They have markets every other Sunday with music art and vendors) check out @vazaar_tulum to see when the markets are
Add to
Details
Raum Gallery
@Leastraveldiaries
Attached to La Pizzine, ramen and more. BEAUTIFUL atmosphere
Add to
Details
La Pizzine TRIA
@Leastraveldiaries
Same vibes as the other La Pizzine but they have events every Monday
Add to
Details

Shop around. 

Local shops :

Entre Dos Tierras
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Seedling | Plant based & gluten free store | Cold Pressed Juice Cleanses
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
La Madre Tierra Tulum (ecosmeticos)
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Ganesha’s Lounge (Cacao, tea & event space)
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Tribalik Tulum Town and Beach
@Leastraveldiaries
Every single time I've walked into this shop, I've bought something. They have beautiful clothes with great fabrics.
Add to
Details
AFRODITA Fashion Clothes - La Veleta
@Leastraveldiaries
Beautiful cotton and linen dresses, their swimsuits are also such a nice fabric
Add to
Details

Groceries: 

Selecto Chedraui Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Súper Akí Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
CHULTUN fresh market
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Frutas y verduras La Poblana
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
OXXO
@Leastraveldiaries
There's Oxxos and 7/11's all over the city but they don't have much when it comes to groceries only basics
Add to
Details

Sightsee. 

Cultural sites and activities : 

Cenote Mayan Blue
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Cenote Encantado Nuan
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Cenote Calavera Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Cenote Escondido
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Ruinas de Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Cormoran Boutique Hotel
@Leastraveldiaries
Great hotel attached to an insanely beautiful cenote, really affordable for Tulum
Add to
Details
Neek Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Beautiful lagoon that sometimes hosts events
Add to
Details

Party until sunset. 

Day and nightclubs : 

Mía Beach Club in Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Taboo Beach Club Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
GITANO Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Vagalume-Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Bonbonniere Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Straw hat Hostel & rooftop bar
@Leastraveldiaries
In town (crazy hostel bar, very cheap drinks, more people are young and just some silly fun. but don’t go if you aren’t ready to get shots poured down your throat or if you don’t want to get messy. DEFINITELY not a boujee place, just for a lot of locals and youngsters travelling around) - Sam
Add to
Details

Work away from home

Once Tulum | Restaurant, Bar & Coworking
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Vaivén /Drinks & Food
@Leastraveldiaries
Everything is homemade and absolutely delicious, their cacao smoothie is insane.
Add to
Details
Vereda del Abasto
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Mera Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Great coffee shop to work and meet people :)
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
IKAL TULUM HOTEL
@Leastraveldiaries
On the beach (Sundays are usually filled with people, but it was a great place to work while I was there, sometimes vendors, classes, dancing. You can grab food and just chill) good coworking spot - Sam
Add to
Details

Wellness

Holistika Hotel
@Leastraveldiaries
Wellness centre with a ton of classes and things to do. also restaurants I believe. Absolutely beautiful and lots of picture worthy places. there is an art walk that anyone can go do - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Pilates Tulum Holy Body
@Leastraveldiaries
Such an amazing pilates studio, Fernanda is THE best
Add to
Details
OM Collective
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Pilatestudio Tulum ( spinning/pilates/barre classes)
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Los Amigos Gym
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Enjoy Tulum!!! It is truly magical :)))

 

* * *
CURATED BY
Currently at 30 countries visited, and 165 to go! Where I am right now: Tulum - Mexico city - Puerto Escondido A little about me and the guides : I'm a world traveller and passionate explorer, dedicated to crafting interactive maps and curated travel guides that inspire wanderlust! My mission is to curate unique destinations, hidden gems, and must-visit landmarks for fellow adventure enthusiasts 🤩 Let's embark on this global exploration together and uncover all of the world's wonders, one guide at a time! 🌍✈️ All maps are free, and so are guides and itineraries until they’re fully complete :))
Send A Tip
Support Lea Di Giovanni’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Lea Di Giovanni Privacy Terms
Exploring Tulum: A comprehensive guide for young travellers in Tulum, Mexico
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Tulum, Mexico with my curated guide designed specifically for young travellers! Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy and breathtaking beauty of this coastal paradise. Discover cultural sites, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in the local cuisine. Thi guide takes you on a journey through Tulum's must-visit attractions, from exploring the iconic Tulum Ruins to snorkelling in the crystal-clear cenotes. Experience the bohemian charm of the town's trendy boutiques, art galleries, and (very) lively nightlife scene. Sample authentic Mexican street food and sip on refreshing cocktails at beachfront bars. With insider tips and recommendations, this guide ensures you make the most of your time in Tulum. Get ready to create lifelong memories as you dive into the unique blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation that Tulum has to offer!
86 Places • 6 Saves • ago
Free

This guide was created in collaboration with Samantha McKee :)

A beautiful soul and traveller with a deep knowledge of Tulum and everything this magical place encapsulates:

Sam's instagram: 

Sam and I are part of What You Didn't See, led by talented creative and co-founder, Ayesha Taylor.

In her words:

”WYDS is a collaborative production company based in the City of Toronto.

Our vision is to lift Toronto’s uniquely talented artists, businesses, establishments, and events in a way that showcases their true passion and potential.

WYDS brings new opportunities through its artist collective to collaborate and create something fantastically different.”

Check out our site and instagram below :

Things to keep in mind :

Before embarking on a trip to Tulum, Mexico, it's essential to consider a few points.

Research the local weather; Tulum experiences a tropical climate, and the rainy season, from June to October, can sometimes lead to flooding.

The weather in Tulum right now: 

While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, some knowledge of Spanish could really enrich your experience, especially in more remote areas.

Embrace the local cuisine, the food is just too good not to, but also remember to stay hydrated and avoid tap water.

When exploring, be careful to respect the local ecosystem, especially the fragile and sacred cenotes. 

Finally, although Tulum is generally safe for tourists, it's wise to stay alert, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Now that we got all of that covered, let's get onto the guide : 

Where to stay.

Areas:

La Veleta:

A tranquil, up-and-coming neighbourhood known for its chic boutiques, trendy eateries, and laid-back, bohemian vibe.

Add to
Details

Tulum Town:

More budget-friendly and gives you a local vibe. It's a short drive to the beach and you'll find plenty of shops and restaurants. 

Tulum Centro
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Beach Zone:

Ideal if you're looking for a beach holiday. It's more expensive but waking up to the sound of waves is worth it.

Add to
Details

Accommodation.

Hotels:

Add to
Details
Cormoran Boutique Hotel
@Leastraveldiaries
Great hotel attached to an insanely beautiful cenote, really affordable for Tulum
Add to
Details
Posada Lamar
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Sonido del mar hotel & yoga
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Hostels:

 If you're travelling on a budget and want a social atmosphere.

Add to
Details
Selina Tulum Downtown
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Airbnbs:

Tulum has a wide range of Airbnbs, from beachfront apartments to jungle hideaways. Great if you're looking for a more local experience.

MISTIQ Tulum Condominium
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

The listing we booked our stay through: 

Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Yaxtè Maya Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
PalAlma Tierra
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
PANACEA CONDO TULUM
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Grab a bite.

Breakfast and cafes :

Potheads restaurant
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Once Tulum | Restaurant, Bar & Coworking
@Leastraveldiaries
Good breakfast. good work spot. cafe vibez - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Italdo
@Leastraveldiaries
One of my fav breakfast spots. croissants are insane - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Vaivén /Drinks & Food
@Leastraveldiaries
Everything is homemade and absolutely delicious, their cacao smoothie is insane.
Add to
Details
BOTANICA Garden Cafe
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Vereda del Abasto
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details

Restaurants 

Sukhothai
@Leastraveldiaries
Hands down the best Thai food in Tulum, the pad Thai is just chef's kiss
Add to
Details
Palma Central
@Leastraveldiaries
In town (every Tuesday is salsa night / unless that changed. but it’s a place with a ton of awesome food trucks and a bar - and a centre place where there’s either vendors or dancing) - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Billy Bob Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Best Tacos Pepe
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
La Guarida
@Leastraveldiaries
Tulum’s well-known spot. insane vibes, set up like a treehouse. good food, games. working spot. live music sometimes - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
La Taqueria
@Leastraveldiaries
Great vibes for lunch or dinner. Mexican restaurant. They have table games. Good for groups. More social. - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
TacoBish
@Leastraveldiaries
Lovely human names Florentina runs it. Just a beautiful sit-down taco spot
Add to
Details
La Pizzine
@Leastraveldiaries
Best vibes, good pizza. great dinner spot any day. They have markets every other Sunday with music art and vendors) check out @vazaar_tulum to see when the markets are
Add to
Details
Raum Gallery
@Leastraveldiaries
Attached to La Pizzine, ramen and more. BEAUTIFUL atmosphere
Add to
Details
La pebeta
@Leastraveldiaries
Argentinian breakfast - ham and croissants are bomb
Add to
Details
CANOVA cantina
@Leastraveldiaries
THE BEST ITALIAN FOOD. Ask for a garden table :)
Add to
Details
Ukami Veleta
@Leastraveldiaries
Japan meets Mexico. specialty rolls. SO GOOD
Add to
Details
Burrito Amor
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Mistico Garden La veleta
@Leastraveldiaries
Hookah lounge with great food and atmosphere
Add to
Details

Plant-based

Seedling | Plant based & gluten free store | Cold Pressed Juice Cleanses
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Raw Love Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Raw Love Town
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Casa Vegana Mexican Green
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Laylo Tulum Vegan Lounge
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Grab a drink

Bars :

La Pizzine
@Leastraveldiaries
Best vibes, good pizza. great dinner spot any day. They have markets every other Sunday with music art and vendors) check out @vazaar_tulum to see when the markets are
Add to
Details
Raum Gallery
@Leastraveldiaries
Attached to La Pizzine, ramen and more. BEAUTIFUL atmosphere
Add to
Details
La Pizzine TRIA
@Leastraveldiaries
Same vibes as the other La Pizzine but they have events every Monday
Add to
Details

Shop around. 

Local shops :

Entre Dos Tierras
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Seedling | Plant based & gluten free store | Cold Pressed Juice Cleanses
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
La Madre Tierra Tulum (ecosmeticos)
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Ganesha’s Lounge (Cacao, tea & event space)
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Tribalik Tulum Town and Beach
@Leastraveldiaries
Every single time I've walked into this shop, I've bought something. They have beautiful clothes with great fabrics.
Add to
Details
AFRODITA Fashion Clothes - La Veleta
@Leastraveldiaries
Beautiful cotton and linen dresses, their swimsuits are also such a nice fabric
Add to
Details

Groceries: 

Selecto Chedraui Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Súper Akí Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
CHULTUN fresh market
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Frutas y verduras La Poblana
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
OXXO
@Leastraveldiaries
There's Oxxos and 7/11's all over the city but they don't have much when it comes to groceries only basics
Add to
Details

Sightsee. 

Cultural sites and activities : 

Cenote Mayan Blue
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Cenote Encantado Nuan
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Cenote Calavera Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Cenote Escondido
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Ruinas de Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Cormoran Boutique Hotel
@Leastraveldiaries
Great hotel attached to an insanely beautiful cenote, really affordable for Tulum
Add to
Details
Neek Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Beautiful lagoon that sometimes hosts events
Add to
Details

Party until sunset. 

Day and nightclubs : 

Mía Beach Club in Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Taboo Beach Club Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
GITANO Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Vagalume-Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Bonbonniere Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Straw hat Hostel & rooftop bar
@Leastraveldiaries
In town (crazy hostel bar, very cheap drinks, more people are young and just some silly fun. but don’t go if you aren’t ready to get shots poured down your throat or if you don’t want to get messy. DEFINITELY not a boujee place, just for a lot of locals and youngsters travelling around) - Sam
Add to
Details

Work away from home

Once Tulum | Restaurant, Bar & Coworking
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Vaivén /Drinks & Food
@Leastraveldiaries
Everything is homemade and absolutely delicious, their cacao smoothie is insane.
Add to
Details
Vereda del Abasto
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Mera Tulum
@Leastraveldiaries
Great coffee shop to work and meet people :)
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
IKAL TULUM HOTEL
@Leastraveldiaries
On the beach (Sundays are usually filled with people, but it was a great place to work while I was there, sometimes vendors, classes, dancing. You can grab food and just chill) good coworking spot - Sam
Add to
Details

Wellness

Holistika Hotel
@Leastraveldiaries
Wellness centre with a ton of classes and things to do. also restaurants I believe. Absolutely beautiful and lots of picture worthy places. there is an art walk that anyone can go do - Description by Samantha McKee
Add to
Details
Pilates Tulum Holy Body
@Leastraveldiaries
Such an amazing pilates studio, Fernanda is THE best
Add to
Details
OM Collective
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Pilatestudio Tulum ( spinning/pilates/barre classes)
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details
Los Amigos Gym
@Leastraveldiaries
Add to
Details

Enjoy Tulum!!! It is truly magical :)))

 

* * *
CURATED BY
Currently at 30 countries visited, and 165 to go! Where I am right now: Tulum - Mexico city - Puerto Escondido A little about me and the guides : I'm a world traveller and passionate explorer, dedicated to crafting interactive maps and curated travel guides that inspire wanderlust! My mission is to curate unique destinations, hidden gems, and must-visit landmarks for fellow adventure enthusiasts 🤩 Let's embark on this global exploration together and uncover all of the world's wonders, one guide at a time! 🌍✈️ All maps are free, and so are guides and itineraries until they’re fully complete :))
Send A Tip
Support Lea Di Giovanni’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Lea Di Giovanni Privacy Terms