Curator’s statement
Tulum marked a meaningful chapter for our family—the first trip where our children’s significant others joined us, transforming a simple getaway into something deeper. It was a week of shared tables, slow mornings, and conversations that felt different. We relaxed side by side, lingered over dinners, and stepped outside our comfort zones together on a guided cenote adventure that none of us will forget. What made Tulum especially memorable was the balance it offered: time together and space apart. It felt safe and welcoming, allowing each of us to explore at our own pace—beach walks, quiet coffee moments, boutique browsing, or simply rest. Everyone found the version of vacation they needed. In that freedom, we connected more authentically. Tulum wasn’t just a destination. It was a milestone—a trip that marked the evolution of our family.
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Things to do in Tulum
The cenotes are truly a hidden world beneath the jungle canopy.
Explore the Tulum ruins: Visit the iconic cliffside ruins of Tulum Archaeological Site, one of the only Mayan cities built directly on the sea. The views of turquoise water against ancient stone make this one of the most photographed sites in Mexico.
Swim in a cenote: Take a guided trip to swim in a cenote. You can adventure on your own, but a guided tour will take you to more private locations and can also provide really interesting information about the area. Our guide also took us to his favorite taco shop in Tulum town. A hole in the wall with some of the best food we had on our trip!
Relax along Tulum Beach: Relaxing along Tulum Beach feels effortless from the moment your feet sink into the soft white sand. The shoreline stretches wide and bright, with calm, swimmable water that invites you in without the crash of overwhelming waves. Long, unhurried swims are followed by hours under the sun, listening to the gentle rhythm of the sea. With attentive beachside food and drink service just steps away, the day flows easily from one perfect moment to the next.
Discover Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: Take a guided boat tour through Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected natural area filled with mangroves, wildlife, and untouched coastline. It’s a beautiful way to experience the region’s biodiversity and quieter side.
Indulge in a beachside or jungle spa experience: Many of Tulum’s boutique properties offer open-air spa treatments surrounded by tropical greenery or views of the ocean. Wellness is a central part of the destination’s culture, making it ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and renewal. Take advantage of the beachside massage locations. It is a wonderful way to relax while listening to the ocean.
Experience a beach club: Spend an afternoon at one of Tulum’s stylish beach clubs, where curated music, fresh cuisine, and ocean views set the tone. It’s equal parts relaxation and vibrant social energy. We were in Tulum right before Christmas. This town knows how to celebrate! The Beach Clubs were a blast after dinner with wonderful DJ's, dancing, and beautiful cocktails.
Dine in Tulum Town (El Pueblo) or in the hotel zone: Head into town for an evening of inventive cuisine, lively street scenes, and local charm. Tulum’s dining scene blends Mexican tradition with global influence, making it one of the Riviera Maya’s culinary highlights. The dining options in Tulum Town are a little more affordable, but the dining experience and spectacle in the hotel zone is worth the extra expense.
Places to eat & drink in Tulum
Fire-kissed perfection at Hartwood - grilled octopus, smoky, tender and unforgettable.
La Zebra: A lively beachfront favorite serving authentic Mexican cuisine from breakfast through dinner with unbeatable ocean views. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent margaritas, and toes-in-the-sand dining. Live music every night. Our family, collectively chose this as our favorite restaurant. Every single entree was beautiful and delicious!
Coco Tulum: A relaxed beachside spot with boho-chic décor and a laid-back vibe. The menu blends Mediterranean influences with fresh seafood and tropical cocktails. We ate breakfast here at least three times. Must try the Croissant Coco!
Kitchen Table: Tucked into the jungle just off the beach road, this intimate open-air restaurant focuses on wood-fired cooking and seasonal ingredients. While this location isn’t beachside, the atmosphere and service make up for the lack of a view! If we weren’t eating breakfast at Coco Tulum, we were here. The candlelit setting makes it especially memorable for dinner.
Hartwood: One of Tulum’s most celebrated dining experiences, Hartwood features a daily-changing menu built around local ingredients. Everything is cooked over an open flame, creating bold, rustic flavors in a romantic jungle setting. This restaurant is completely open-air. There is no power, so everything is lit by candles. My husband and I had a wonderful romantic evening with gorgeous food and beautifully made cocktails. The service was incredible.
Casa Banana: A charming Argentine-inspired steakhouse known for perfectly grilled meats and a cozy garden ambiance. It’s a great choice for a relaxed yet refined dinner with excellent wine selections.
ARCA: This spot offers creative, chef-driven cuisine in a sophisticated jungle setting. The menu highlights local flavors with modern techniques, making it ideal for a special night out.
La Popular: Located at Nomade’s beachfront, La Popular specializes in vibrant seafood dishes and bold Mexican flavors. It’s perfect for a leisurely lunch with ocean views and a breezy atmosphere.
Tantra: A stylish beach club restaurant offering global cuisine and lively energy along the shoreline. It’s a great spot for a long afternoon that transitions into sunset cocktails by the sea. We ended several of our evenings at Tantra.
Need to know
Getting around: The hotel zone runs along one coastal road, and traffic can move slowly—especially in the high season. Bicycles are often the easiest (and most enjoyable) way to navigate shorter distances during the day. There aren’t any sidewalks, so watch the traffic!
Set expectations for comfort: Many properties are eco-conscious and open-air by design, which adds to the charm but can mean softer lighting, variable A/C, or limited water pressure. Tulum is about atmosphere and connection to nature rather than traditional, polished resort living. No shoes needed for walks on the sand, but bring comfortable shoes for walking in town.
Budget accordingly: Dining, beach clubs, and transportation in the hotel zone are typically priced at a premium compared to Tulum Town. Planning ahead helps avoid surprises and allows travelers to fully enjoy the experience.
Beach conditions are seasonal: Sargassum seaweed is most common in the late spring and summer months. Hotels work hard to maintain their beachfront, but travelers prioritizing crystal-clear water may prefer fall or winter visits.
Choose your vibe carefully: Some areas of the hotel zone are tranquil and wellness-focused, while others are lively and social with DJs and late-night energy. Selecting the right hotel location can completely shape the overall experience.
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