10 Unique Things to do in Tulum: Perfect itinerary on a budget!

Located on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, Tulum is a popular travel destination for many reasons. This pretty coastal town has everything from great food to fun activities.

This guide covers the top things to do in Tulum and how to make the most of your beach holiday in this gorgeous Mexican paradise.

Why is Tulum A Popular Travel Destination? 

The town has a beautiful setting. Tulum is situated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and the town is also home to many historical and archaeological sites. The most popular of these is the ancient Maya site of Chichen Itza, which is located just outside of town. 

In addition, Tulum has a thriving nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs located along the beachfront. There's no shortage of things to do in Tulum, day or night.

Tulum is known for its relaxed atmosphere. Most visitors flock here to enjoy its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches.

Are there Many Things to do in Tulum?

If you find yourself in the beautiful town of Tulum, Mexico, you may be wondering what there is to do your entire stay. Tulum is full of history and culture, as well as plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach. 

Visit the ancient Mayan ruins that are located just outside of town. These ruins are the best-preserved in all of Mexico and offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. 

Spend a day exploring the town itself. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets, pop into the many shops and boutiques, and try some local cuisine. 

Take a swim in one of the area's many cenotes. These natural swimming holes are formed when limestone caves collapse, and they're filled with crystal clear water. 

Of course, no trip to Tulum would be complete without spending some time on the beach. Relax in a hammock, swim in the turquoise waters, and soak up the incredible views. 

Book Cheap Flights to Tulum!

If you're still looking at flights for your trip to Tulum, make sure you're booking the cheapest flights available on the market with SkyScanner!

Skyscanner helps you find the cheapest flights available so that you wouldn't have to pay more for flight tickets and save that money for more things to do or food to eat!

10 Best Things To Do in Tulum in 2022

With so many options and activities to choose from, let's focus on the most popular things to do in Tulum while you're there!

10. Explore Tulum's Unique Boutiques

Looking for the perfect gift? Tulum's got you covered with its unique selection of boutique stores.

From handcrafted jewelry to one-of-a-kind art, there's something for everyone on your gift list. And don't forget to pick up a souvenir for yourself!

If you're looking for jewelry, check out Amazona Stone Art. The talented designers create beautiful pieces using semi-precious stones from the nearby jungle. 

For something truly unique, visit Joyería Maya Tolok, where you'll find handmade jewelry inspired by the ancient Mayan civilization.

There are plenty of galleries for art lovers to choose from. In addition to traditional paintings and sculptures, you'll find plenty of multimedia pieces incorporating elements from nature. One standout is El Arte de Lara León, where you can find beautiful blown glass art inspired by the nearby reefs.

9.  Enjoy Tulum Nightlife

After a day of exploring the ancient ruins or lounging on the beach, there are still plenty of things to do in Tulum. 

Tulum's nightlife comes alive with tons of bars and clubs to choose from, each with its unique atmosphere. 

For a laid-back vibe, check out Mezcalito's Cantina. This open-air spot is perfect for people-watching and enjoying a few cocktails. 

You can also dance the night away at  Gitano Tulum, a trendy club that attracts a chic crowd and features live music and DJs. 

8. Enjoy the Beaches of Tulum

The sand in Tulum is white and powdery, the water is crystal clear, and the waves are just perfect for body surfing. 

The beaches are essentially the main things to do in Tulum - be sure to bring your sunscreen!

7. Climb the Pyramid at Coba Ruins

Visitors to the Coba Ruins in Mexico will find themselves confronted with a daunting task - climbing the Pyramid of the Noha Old Man. At 120 feet tall, it's one of the tallest pyramids in the country. If you're looking for things to do in Tulum that will break out a sweat, then this is it!

The views from the top are well worth the effort, though, and you can say you conquered one of Mexico's most famous landmarks. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as it can get pretty hot.

6. Take A Day Trip To Sian Ka'an

This protected biosphere reserve is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life and some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. 

A trip to Sian Ka'an is one of the best things to do in Tulum if you're looking for a day out. 

Visitors can participate in several activities, including snorkeling, bird watching, and hiking. There's also a great chance of seeing some turtles, as Sian Ka'an is one of the main nesting sites for these endangered creatures. 

5. Visit the Choo-ha Cenote

The Choo-ha Cenote is a unique swimming hole located in the heart of the Mexican jungle. 

This cenote is unique because it has two different entrances: one from the surface and one from under the ground. The underground entrance is a small tunnel that leads into a large, open chamber that's filled with crystal-clear water. The walls of the chamber are lined with stalactites and stalagmites. You can swim in the cenote or explore the chamber by scuba diving. 

The surface entrance to the cenote is a small hole in the ground that leads down a flight of stairs, and it's a nice adventurous thing to do if you're in Tulum. 

4. Explore the Tulum Ruins

Situated atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the ruins are an excellent example of Mayan architecture. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, the site was a lookout point for incoming ships. 

Visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings, including a temple dedicated to the god of wind, Chaac.

3. Swim in the Gran Cenote

The cenote is a deep, freshwater pool carved out of limestone by centuries of rainwater seeping through the rock. 

It's located in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula and is one of the most popular things to do if you're in Tulum because it's a famous Mexican tourist attraction. 

2. Get Muddy At Laguna Kaan Luum

At Laguna Kaan Luum, getting muddy is viewed as a fundamental human right. That's why there's a variety of mud pits for your mudding pleasure. 

Make the most of your mud experience, from mud baths to slather-on-and-bake-in mud masks. It's a self-service spa experience and as close to nature as it gets. 

1. Experience a Temazcal

A Temazcal is a traditional Mexican steam bath or sweat lodge used for cleansing and healing. The word temazcal comes from the Nahuatl word temazcalli, which means "house of heat."

The Temazcal is typically made from adobe bricks or stone and has a small, low doorway that allows you to enter the steam room. Inside, there's a small fire pit where heated rocks are placed.

Water is poured over the stones to create steam, and plants or herbs are added to the water for additional purification benefits. The door is then sealed, trapping the steam inside.

This is a truly authentic shamanic experience and possibly one of the most memorable things to do in Tulum.

Enjoy all that Tulum has to Offer with Pilot!

Tulum is one of the best places in Mexico, and you won't regret exploring it. Visit great restaurants, landmarks, and activities that will keep you happy during your entire vacation. 

Don't let the opportunity for an adventure of a lifetime pass you by! With some inspiration on cool things to do in Tulum, you're probably desperate to sink your toes in the white sands of the Mexican coastline. 

If you're planning a trip to Mexico, have a look at our guide on where to stay in Mexico City when you arrive. There are also really fantastic hostels dotted around the country if you want to make a real trip out of it. Need some help turning your travel dreams into concrete plans?