the 9-to-5 nomad's guide to solo travel
WHERE TO STAY
top neighborhoods for solo travelers & first-time visitors
SEARCH TOP HOTELS & HOSTELS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
Beach Road (Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila): This is a two-lane road that runs along the coast, with most of the hotels on it.
tulum beach road
north (hotel zone)
This area is known for high-end eco-chic hotels and upscale restaurants. It's a quieter and more serene part of the beach road, ideal for relaxation and upscale experiences.
tulum beach road
central
This is the liveliest part of the beach road. Here you'll find the trendiest restaurants, beach clubs with DJs, and a more energetic scene.
tulum beach road
south
This area is known for its bohemian vibe, with eco-friendly resorts, yoga retreats, and beachfront bars. It's a bit more laid-back compared to the central and northern parts.
WHERE TO PLAY
Top nightlife Hotspots, Beach Clubs & Bars
Main Nightlife District: Beach Zone
ziggys
Location: Beach Road - Central
About: Laid back beach club
taboo
Location: Beach Road - Central
About: Luxury beach club
vagalume
Location: Beach Road - South
About: Beach Club
casa jaguar
Location: Beach Road - South
About: Beach Club
papaya playa project beach club
Location: Beach Road - North
About: Beach Club
la zebra
Location: Beach Road - South
About: Beach Club
mia
Location: Beach Road - Central
About: Beach Club
rosa negra
Location: Beach Road - South
About: Beach Club
what to do
top attractions, day trips & adventures
Tulum Ruins
The Tulum Ruins, also known as the Zona Arqueológica de Tulum, are a must-see for anyone visiting Tulum, Mexico. A climb to the top of the Castillo facing the Caribbean Sea is a must for unbeatable views. It is estimated to be built around 1220 AD, and are relatively compact and easy to navigate compared to other Mayan sites.
Gran Cenote
This sprawling network of interconnected cenotes is a great choice for a full day of exploration. Here you can find open cenotes for swimming and diving, along with caverns for more adventurous exploration. There are also areas for snorkeling and simply relaxing amidst the lush jungle.
Dos Ojos Cenote
This is a massive cave system considered one of the most spectacular in the Riviera Maya. Dos Ojos translates to "two eyes" referencing two large cenotes connected by an underground passage. Explore caverns with dramatic lighting effects, stalactites and stalagmites, and swim in crystal-clear waters.
Sac Actun
Cenote system
This is the world's longest underwater cave system, spanning over 650,000 ft. Sac Actun itself is a large open cenote with a shallow depth, perfect for a refreshing dip and snorkeling. Guided tours are available for experienced cave divers to explore the vast underwater network.
off the beaten path
hidden gems beyond the popular tourist attractions
Ven a la Luz sculpture
The famed Mother Earth stature, by South African artist Daniel Popper created Ven a la Luz for the 2018 "Art With Me" festival in Tulum. Initially placed on the Tulum coastal road in front of Ahau Tulum Hotel, the sculpture became a social media darling.
The sculpture is now the centerpiece of the Ahau Tulum Sculpture Park, situated on the beach at the Ahau Tulum Resort. The park itself might require an entrance fee as it's part of a private resort.
jungle Art Walk
The Jungle Art Walk in Tulum is a permanent exhibition located within the grounds of Holistika Tulum, a wellness retreat on the outskirts of Tulum. The walk winds through the jungle showcasing a variety of art installations and sculptures created by local, national, and international artists. The Jungle Art Walk is free and open to the public.
Temazcal Ceremony
Experience a traditional Temazcal sweat lodge ceremony for purification and spiritual renewal. These ceremonies involve entering a small, earth-built structure heated with volcanic rocks. Herbal infusions are added to the steam for their cleansing properties. A Temazcalero, or shaman, will lead you through chants and prayers for spiritual guidance.
natural mud bath
Laguna de Kaan Luum
Laguna de Kaan Luum is a beautiful spot located a short drive from Tulum. It's known for its striking turquoise waters, shallow areas perfect for wading, and a deep central cenote ideal for experienced divers. Its name in Mayan translates to "Yellow Earth" because of the presence of mineral-rich mud around the lagoon, which visitors can use for a natural spa treatment.