The Best Things to Do in Tulum

Longing for a warm, relaxing getaway with gentle ocean breezes and white sands? Then pack your suitcase — because Tulum is the total package.

This beachside enclave two hours south of Cancún has exploded in popularity over the past few years. Luxury hotels, stylish beach clubs, and upscale dining options abound in this beloved destination — and there just so happens to be a Kimpton right in this little piece of paradise.

Located between the silica sands of Tulum’s beaches and the vibrant downtown region, Kimpton Aluna Resort is a short bike ride away from it all. While the hotel is a restful reprieve, you’ll also want to venture out and see the area’s remarkable sights that are all within reach.

Here are some of the best things you can do in Tulum right now.

Sink and Swim

Tulum has a treasure trove of marvels hidden beneath the surface, including cenotes. Cenotes are naturally occurring sinkholes that expose fresh, aqua blue groundwater perfect for swimming. There are a staggering 6,000 of them on the Yucatán Peninsula, so cenote hopping is a must when visiting.

While there are literally thousands of options, two of the most popular caves are Cenote Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote. But don’t feel limited to these — there are plenty of locally-run tours that will take you on a cenote crawl around Tulum. You might even find yourself riding an ATV through the jungle and climbing a subterranean ladder to reach them.

Items to bring include cash for admissions fees, a bathing suit, water shoes, and an underwater camera — swimming, snorkeling, and diving in these underground caves is an experience you will want to document.

Find Your Center

Tulum’s free-spirited, bohemian vibes make it an ideal wellness destination for yogis looking to practice some self-care. Looking to stay put? We get it — Kimpton Aluna has four treatment rooms for all your massage, facial, and body scrub needs.

To rejuvenate with yoga and meditation, Yäan Healing Sanctuary is a must-visit. This popular yoga studio has tree-top classes overlooking the jungle and a Temazcales, a traditional Mexican sweat lodge used for cleansing ceremonies.

For private yoga, including sunrise beach sessions with mimosas, Tulum Yoga School is the spot. You can also practice downward dog with real rescue dogs, and if you’re feeling motivated, complete all 200 hours of your yoga teacher training.

Sample And Sip

Tulum is a culinary playground, with chic restaurant after chic restaurant to dine in. One of its most popular is Gitano.

Described as a “modern Mexican kitchen,” the menu is meant for sharing seasonal dishes cooked on an open fire grill or in a wood-burning oven, like a whole roasted local fish that is then served with a variety of tantalizing tacos. The dishes pair perfectly with mezcal and fresh fruit juice cocktails.

Across the street is Rosa Negra, another standout culinary destination where things are a bit more bohemian. Wooden furniture, stone walls, and large artisanal lamps bring the laid-back vibe of Tulum right to the table. Highlighting flavors from all over Latin America, there are a boatload of vibrant ceviches and an impressive variety of top-grade surf and turf options.

Explore The Ruins

The only Mayan city built on the coast, Tulum, originally named Zamá, was a prosperous trading post before it was destroyed by the Spanish. However, Zamá’s walls, temples, and stone buildings have remarkably remained intact through the centuries.

Spend the morning exploring these ancient sites and learning about Mayan culture with a local guide. Visitors can also wander the buildings solo after paying an entrance fee, which is well worth it.

Afterwards, go for a swim at the beach just below — it is one of Tulum’s most famous stretches of sand with the ancient ruins perched above.

Bask On The Beach

While we’re on the subject, Tulum is famous for its out-of-this-world beaches. The shimmering white sand and turquoise waters make it one of the best places in Mexico for an ocean retreat. Tulum’s stretches of beach are ideal for long walks, sunset cocktails, and sublime swims.

Guests at the Kimpton Aluna have access to dedicated beach clubs where you can lounge on oh-so-comfortable chairs, order margaritas and tacos galore, then take an afternoon nap in a gently swaying hammock.

Does it get any better? We doubt it.

Where to stay: Kimpton Aluna Resort