Whether you’re in Tulum for the crowded party beaches, the tranquil lagoons, discovering cenotes or mingling at locals’ favorite hidden beaches, this coastal city offers something for everyone. Here are some ideas for how to navigate your way through Tulum’s beautiful waters. Of course, we couldn’t miss out on some great authentic Mexican food, check out where to eat in Tulum. We’ll cover the beaches to visit on the beach strip, then dive into the best cenotes to explore in Tulum.

THE BEACH STRIP

Quintana Roo is a stretch of coastal states on the Yucatán Peninsula covering destinations from Cancun, Riveria Maya, Tulum and everything in between. Undoubtedly, if you’re in Tulum you’re going to want to get right in the water off the main beach strip. You can also stay at any of the beach clubs if you’d like to book a hotel right on the water!

Papaya Playa Project – probably the most popular beach club and well worth a visit. Be in awe of the beautiful rustic décor, double decked restaurant with sea views and the most relaxing beach chaises.

Coco Tulum – the most notable beach club in Tulum. Enjoy the beautifully painted white wood, a dance floor and beach swings for the perfect photo-op.

Ziggy’s Beach – less known but just as calm is Ziggy’s. Lay back on the oversized plush pillows and enjoy the scene. You might have seen us rave about Ziggy’s breakfast in our where to eat in Tulum guide here.

Public Beach across from Villa Las Estrellas – perhaps one of our favorite finds on the beach strip, is this little public area.

Of course, you don’t have to visit beach club to truly enjoy the beautiful waters of Tulum. There’s a vast public beach area closer to the Mayan Ruins in the Zona Arqueológica de Tulum.

HIDDEN BEACHES

Here’s a set of off the beaten path beaches to enjoy the subtle turquoise waves. These were all recommended by locals and were not at all on our radar before heading out.

Caleta Tankah – the little rock enclosed cenote at Caleta Tankah is perfect for keeping the waves out and leaving you with crystal clear water. The only downside here is the restaurant; don’t fall for this trap. The food is below average and the wait is decades long.

Xpu-Ha Beach – a plethora of beach restaurants and bars right on the water. Live music and full on dancing on the sand. You can access the public beach for free or walk up the shore to rent a beach chair for the day. Depending on where you end up, the fee for the chair could include a free drink!

Luum Kaan Laguna – what a wonder. This green water lagoon is a popular destination for locals. The shallow water is perfect for just hanging around and floating while taking in the views.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere– the best preserved natural reserve in the region that was established in 1986 and later became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987! The freshwater extends through Mayan built canals – the unique natural attraction is massive and expands across 5,280 square kilometers.

CENOTES

Saving the best for last: that is, the best cenotes in Tulum. There are over 2400 Cenotes in Yucatán, and they are more beautiful than the beaches. The trick here is getting there early; most cenotes are open to the public starting at 8 or 9 am. Be sure to be there bright and early to enjoy dips in the cool waters and some tranquility before the masses arrive. Here’s a pictorial guide to which cenotes to jump into!

Cenote Carwash

Cenote Casa

Cenote Calavera

Gran Cenote

Cenote Cristal

Cenote Escondido

Cenote Aktun Ha

Cenote Ik Kil

This one needs a bit of guidance; we got to this beautiful and massive cenote on the way back from a day trip to Chichen Itza – which was a two hour drive from downtown Tulum. Frankly, it was our favorite cenote. I recommend starting your day off here and driving up to see the World Wonder afterwards.

Cenote Suytun 

How to get to this wonder? Read through our detailed guide of visiting Coba and Suytun Cenote here. 

Share your pictures and tag #tayaramuse to show off Tulum’s best waters!