If you’re planning a trip to Tulum, you already know you’re in for pristine beaches, bohemian cafés, mezcal cocktails, and jungle‑wrapped hotels. On my most recent stay, we based ourselves at Naala Tulum – just a quick five‑minute drive from the beachfront clubs and an easy stroll into Tulum Centro. I’d absolutely recommend it. While it’s not ultra‑luxury, it delivers fantastic value: spacious rooms, a beautifully bohemian reception area, genuinely great food and cocktails at friendly prices, and a daily happy hour that’s impossible to resist. And the rooftop pool? Bathed in sunlight and tucked between jungle trees – pure bliss.
But one of the best parts of staying in Tulum is what lies just beyond it. From ancient ruins perched above turquoise waters to mystical cenotes hidden deep in the jungle, the wider Riviera Maya is full of unforgettable experiences.
Here are the best day trips to consider from Tulum – whether you’re after adventure, culture, or just another perfect swim.
1. Chichén Itzá
A trip to Tulum wouldn’t be complete without seeing one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The main pyramid, El Castillo, is breathtaking in person. Make sure to go early to beat both the heat and the crowds. And to make the long day extra special, combine this with a cenote stop (Ik Kil is the classic pairing).
Travel time: ~2 hours.
Use this link to book a local guide to pick you up from your hotel in Tulum and walk you through all of the secrets and mystics of this iconic landmark. This tour will also take you to one of Tulum’s most beautiful cenotes, Valladolid.
2. The Tulum Ruins
Yes, technically in Tulum – but they deserve their own highlight.
These seaside ruins perched above the Caribbean are iconic. Walk the grounds, learn about Mayan history, and take the staircase down to the tiny beach below the cliffs.
Travel time: 10 minutes from Tulum Centro.
Use this link to book with a local guide who will unveil all of the deep-rooted history you need to know about the Mayan history of Tulum.
3. Laguna Kaan Luum
A freshwater lagoon with a deep cenote in the middle, shifting from milky turquoise to deep sapphire.
- Perfect for a relaxing swim or paddle.
- Less crowded than the big-name cenotes.
- Bring snacks and arrive early for calm water.
Travel time: ~20 minutes.
You can get a private taxi to take you here and arrange pick up. For a stress-free day arranged all for you with lunch included, opt for a trusted tour run by a local operator using this link.
4. Akumal Beach for Turtle Swimming
If swimming alongside wild sea turtles is on your bucket list, Akumal is perfect. Expect calm waters, making the trip easy for nervous swimmers. Make sure you go early morning for the best visibility.
Travel time: ~30 minutes.
Use this link to book your full day excursion with ease!
5. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a complete change of pace from the beach clubs. Expect lagoon boat tours and wildlife watching. This is nature at its untouched best.
Travel time: ~45–60 minutes depending on the entrance.
The best way to head here is through excursion to have the full day arranged for you. Use this link for a local trusted operator.
6. Isla Mujeres
You’ll see street vendors in Tulum selling a tour to Isla Mujeres. While this is absolutely stunning and it is technically do-able from Tulum, it requires a very early start – 5am pickup for a 2‑hour transfer to Cancun pier.
You will travel by catamaran to Isla Mujeres with stunning coastal views.
You’ll get around 2 hours on the island where you can rent a golf buggy and explore the island’s colourful buildings, try tequila tasting, and explore colourful streets and beaches.
It’s a beautiful island, but from Tulum the journey is long: expect to return around 9–10pm.
Recommendation: Skip it from Tulum due to limited time on the island; this tour is much more worth it if you’re staying in Cancun.
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Tulum is an experience in itself, but its magic multiplies when you explore the surrounding region. Whether you’re floating through mangroves, diving into ancient cenotes, wandering historic towns, or stepping into Mayan history, these day trips round out your trip with adventure, culture, and some seriously unforgettable views.
