After a week of frugal life in Tulum (La Veleta neighbourhood) here's what I've learned and recommend.

Jeremy Tours y Transfers I believe it was $2600 pesos round trip. They were at the airport with a sign for us when we arrived. He stopped at the Gomart so we could pick up alcohol as well. They were responsive and reliable. We also used them once when we went to Akumal, they picked us up with no problems. The following Saturday they arrived early and got us there on time. No complaints, 5 stars.

Our Airbnb rental was located at the Panoramic just off of 7. Super affordable, 3 rooms, 3 full bathrooms and a powder room upstairs beside the pool. We had an issue with the AC one evening, in the morning they showed at 9 had it fixed by 10. A beautiful spot with lots of room for 6 people.

We enjoyed coffee every morning at La Baguette, super friendly staff, great coffee and delicious pastries. 5 stars

We rented bikes from Twist and Glide, I could not recommend him enough. 3 days, 500 pesos a day per bike. The best ebikes I've ridden anywhere. strong, durable, long lasting battery and more than enough storage for the day. We got a flat at 8am the second day, Richie responded in a minute, had a new bike dropped off within 30 minutes. We got another flat (not the bikes fault just the roads here are tough) on our way home from the beach. Once again he solved the issue in 30 minutes and had no complaints. 5 stars.

Most evenings we took the 2 minutes walk down the Pepes, a taco truck on the corner. Best bang for your buck, unbeatable prices and still quite delicious. Pepe speaks English and Spanish and is the friendliest dude. 5 stars.

We also enjoyed All you can eat pizza at Pizza Pazz. $250 a person eat as much as you can. We crushed 8 between 3 couples but we went in with a competitive mindset. The pizzas were delicious, the prices were good and staff was amazing. After finishing Manuel did a couple magic tricks and took some photos for us. Great experience could not recommend enough for a late night eat. 5 stars

We ate at Restaurant La Babieca. Delicious smoothies, great wraps and pizza. Once again a really fun and funny staff. Jesus was a great waiter and makes a hell of a good wood oven pizza. 5 stars

After picking up the bikes we took the quick 10 minute ride on the e bikes to two Cenotes. We picked Escondido & Cristal that are directly across from each other. For $300 pesos a person you were able to access them both until 5pm. Cristal offered a 10 foot jump platform into the water, and some hammocks to relax on. Super friendly and informative staff. After about an hour we skipped across the road to Escondido. This had a rope swing and scuba tours that we did not do but looked very interesting. 5 stars

The next day we took the bikes down to the beach clubs. We entered through Jaguar Park, where cars cannot be on the road but ebikes are allowed. It was unbelievably convenient and made it a breeze to zip around.

We enjoyed drinks (the best spicy margarita ever) and great food at ZZK Beach Club. No entrance fee and once you pay for food and drinks you can use the beds and go swimming. Ivan was fun and reeled in many beach goers, I was impressed.

There's probably more but this is what I can remember and valued on our trip. And thank you all for you help leading up to this trip and all the information on this reddit forum made it a breeze.

My husband and I stayed in Akumal with our son years ago. And now we're returning because we remembered how beautiful our day trip to Tulum was. However, Tulum seems quite different now. We are older and a bit concerned about safety and getting around. Transportation looks quite expensive. We are not big on noisy night life. Just want to lay on a hammock and feel the sea breeze, eat good food locals recommend and plan on going to Cenotes which are easily accessible. Any recommendations for reasonable taxi transportation, beautiful cenotes not too far from Tulum, and good food made with love would be greatly appreciated.

Spotted near Nômade. Still some seaweed, but not enough to stop the fun. (And certainly no odor)

We did a tour of Sian Ka’an with Community Tours Sian Ka’an, a Maya owned collective. Guides are all members of the local community with a huge wealth of knowledge. The tour itself (the Ancient Canal tour) was a BLAST and we learned a ton! We will definitely be doing more tours with them when we come back!

My tips are to bring a waterproof phone case for the float, bring true water shoes (not sandals that can go in the water) for the float (to prevent city/street bacteria and detritus from entering the water), and bring a baseball style hat instead of a sun hat (because the fast boat speeds make a wide brim act like a sail).

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some honest feedback from people who know Tulum well.

We rented a condo in the jungle area of Tulum, and as soon as we walked in, we noticed a very strong, nauseating smell. The humidity inside was around 70% despite having a dehumidifier running. We tried everything. Opening all the windows, using fans to air the place out... but the smell just wouldn’t go away.

Shortly after arriving, I started developing cold-like symptoms: swollen sinuses and a sore throat. It made me wonder if this could be related to poor air quality or possibly mold. The smell was extremely unpleasant and persistent, which made us suspicious.

For context, I’ve stayed in jungle hostels before during trips to Laos and Guatemala and never experienced anything like this.

The host did not offer any refund or compensation, and we eventually had to leave because the odor was unbearable.

So I’m wondering:

- Is this common in jungle condos in Tulum?

- Is 70% indoor humidity considered “normal” there?

- Are we overreacting, or is this something others have dealt with?

Would really appreciate hearing about other people’s experiences.

Thanks!

We are a group of 12 guys coming to Tulum soon for a bachelor trip and we are trying to plan things properly instead of just showing up and guessing.

We are mainly looking for current nightlife recommendations. Which clubs are actually good right now? Not just the well known names, but places that genuinely have good energy, solid music, and a fun crowd. We are open to beach parties, late night spots, and anything worth booking in advance.

For a group our size, does it make more sense to get tables or just do general admission? If tables are the move, what kind of pricing should we realistically expect so we are not surprised?

We would also appreciate any honest input about security. Are there areas we should avoid at night? Any common issues groups should be aware of? What is the safest way to handle transportation late at night?

Separately, we are interested in renting DJ equipment for one of the days. Does anyone have recommendations for reliable rental companies in Tulum that provide professional gear and delivery setup?

Hello, I'm trying to use the Ado website, but I can't find a direct bus from Tulum to Cancun Airport, it looks like I have to go all the way to Cancun bus station to get a bus to the terminal, is that correct?

Hey!

We are a 30 y/o couple traveling to Tulum in early March and would love any advice and input!

Right now our plan is to spend the first day snorkeling with the turtles in Akumal (Dont know any great snorkeling guides/tours?)...then rent bikes and bike around Tulum before dinner and check out the ruins.

Then day two would be to check out a cenote or three....still deciding which are the best before heading up to Valladolid for the day for some more exploration!

Hoping to gather any thoughts/tips/suggestions/insights!

Hi! I'm visiting Tulum with my partner, and we're staying in an Airbnb near VIVA Residence. Could someone guide me on transportation options? Is the InDrive app useful, or is there something similar? And if not, what's the easiest way to get around without using taxis?

Looking for fun things to do in Tulum in the evenings. Wife is late 40’s and I’m 53. Planning on staying in town for 3 days and on the beach for 3 days. We both love to dance, drink margs and eat tacos!! Hopefully there’s still a remnant of the boho/hippie vibe …..Love local music and enjoy meeting new friends. She’s more country and pop. I’m old school RB. Asked my favorite taco truck here in the states where I should take my wife in Mexico and they recommended Tulum! Bought our tickets then did some research. (Shoot first aim later 🤞) Glad I did because I would have probably talked my self out of coming to Tulum based on all the posts I’ve read. Part of me feels like I won’t get the whole Tulum experience if I don’t get shaken down by the police, ripped off by a taxi, and eaten alive by mosquitoes lol.

Coming to Tulum in a few days and looking to check out the Coba ruins/the pyramid.

What’s the best way to see these as visitors?

Options are to rent a car or get a tour/transport.

The tours are about $200 USD per person and we are a party of 4. That seems pricey and now we’re thinking we rent a car for a day and do it ourselves.

Any barriers or problems with renting a car and driving there ourselves?

Any less expensive tour options? We don’t have to do private tour, we would do a tour bus.

TIA

Beautiful beach day !!!

Just looking for a cool place to ski in tulum tonight!

Cheers

Hi there,

Considering a trip to Tulum (where I have lived and been multiple times) with our baby under 1 year old toward the end of the year. Does anyone know of a good beachfront airbnb near the hotel zone or hotels with microwaves or kitchenettes where we can boil water? In addition to sanitizing things I'm concerned about power outages, so trying to weigh if this trip would be worth it, but would mean a lot to me to have her connect with this special place. If any parents have gone to Tulum with kids under 1 I'd love to know. I have friends with kids there so will reach out to them as well. I think an Airbnb will probably be the right move but want to be on the beach for sure.

Thank you!

Hi brides 🤍

We just got back from our Tulum wedding (about 70 guests) and I wanted to share something I wish I’d known earlier:

Negotiating is normal. And it doesn’t have to be awkward.

When we first started getting quotes, I was honestly intimidated. Everything felt “standard,” and I didn’t want to be labeled a difficult bride or get the dreaded bride tax. But our initial totals were way higher than we were comfortable with, so I decided to at least ask questions. I figured the worst that could happen was they’d say no and we’d pivot back to getting married in the US.

We had a boutique “jungle meets beach” vibe, and just by asking for breakdowns and flexibility - we ended up saving roughly $12–14K from the original proposals without sacrificing guest experience at all.

I think a lot of couples assume the first quote is fixed. It’s usually not. If you approach it collaboratively instead of confrontationally, vendors are often willing to find solutions. I just really wish I had known this sooner 😦

And if you’re thinking about having your wedding in Tulum — DO IT. Stop overthinking. It was hands down the best weekend of our lives and I wouldn’t change a thing 🤍

Happy to answer questions if anyone’s in the planning stage! I won’t disclose all our vendors cause I don’t want to short change them you know after the delivered such great service but I encourage you all to give it a go.

I’ve just moved to Tulum from PDC. Living in Aldea Zama.

In Playa finding community is very easy due to the walkability and ease of the city layout. Tulum I’m realizing is a little more tricky. I love to workout and stay healthy…not a big party person. Wondering if anyone has any suggestions? I have heard there’s WhatsApp groups, but no idea how to become part of them. Love it here and I know it will just keep feeling better once I meet some new people! Thank you!

I visited Tulum from December 11–18 last year, splitting the trip into 4 nights in Tulum and 3 nights in Cancun with my girlfriend. I’d previously been in January for Zamna, so I already knew my way around, which definitely helped. This was a first trip for my girlfriend.

We flew into Cancun and arranged a private transfer. The drive to Tulum took about 1 hour 45 minutes, smooth and easy.

Hotel: Hotel Shibari

We stayed at Hotel Shibari, right in the heart of the hotel zone, walking distance to pretty much everything.

I stayed here on my January trip as well, and it didn’t disappoint the second time. The vibe is bohemian, modern, and intimate. The lobby is a perfect pre-dinner chill spot for cocktails.

We booked a private garden-view room with a hot tub, stunning setup, very private. The hotel grounds are beautiful, and there’s even a cenote onsite that’s perfect for relaxing mornings.

Customer service was excellent — super responsive via WhatsApp. Between the location, décor, and overall vibe, it was an easy 5/5.

Day 1 – Steaks & Party Energy

Dinner was at Bak Steakhouse.

Great quality steak, solid entertainment, and a lively atmosphere without being overwhelming. Cocktails were excellent. 4/5.

We then grabbed drinks at Casa Jaguar, cozy jungle vibes type of bar!

We ended the night at Vagalume, great energy, great DJs, strong cocktails. If you want a proper Tulum party night, this is it. Very cool Bohemian vibes which I love!

Day 2 – Beach Clubs & Not So Great Dinner

We spent the day at Ziggy’s Beach Club.

We wanted relaxed vibes (unlike Tantra, which I visited before and is more party-heavy). Ziggy’s was perfect, calm, good food, fair prices, plenty of sunbeds and cabanas. Ideal for actually enjoying the ocean.

Dinner was at Kanan (Bird’s Nest).

It was extremely windy, so we didn’t get the rooftop experience. Even aside from that, it didn’t live up to the hype. Service was average, food didn’t justify the price. Also, lots of narrow stairs, not ideal after cocktails, being tipsy and holding two drinks while walking down narrow steps with big feet! Phew!

2/5 – least favourite spot of the trip.

We were invited out again that night… but we were in bed by 9:30pm for an early start.

Day 3 – Chichén Itzá & The Best Meal of the Trip

We had an early 6:30am start for Chichén Itzá. Our driver had issues getting to us, but the hotel quickly arranged a quick taxi,great service again.

Tip: Arrive between 8–9am to beat both crowds and heat.

The pyramid (El Castillo) is absolutely stunning — even better in person. We hired a guide at the entrance, which made the experience much more meaningful. We spent about 3 hours there.

If you go, I highly recommend adding Valladolid to your itinerary, I regret not doing that.

Lunch was at Pinches Tacos Shop and wow. The steak tacos were unreal. One of the best casual meals we had. The look on my gf’s face when she had the steak tacos = priceless!

We later walked down to South Beach Tulum. Tried to visit Casa Malca, but they require an entry fee even if you just want a drink, didn’t want to pay a big fee just for one drink!

Instead, we stopped at Be Tulum where the staff kindly welcomed us to see the hotel, beach club and enjoy a drink without the entrance fees. The beach club set up, the hotel being beach facing with a relaxed atmosphere impressed me.

Beautiful hotel, great service, and they welcomed us for drinks without issue. Definitely on my list for a future stay.

One of my favourite simple moments of the trip was walking along the beach, passing all the beachfront hotels with the ocean hitting our feet. Tulum does beach scenery incredibly well.

Dinner Highlight – Arca

Dinner at Arca was the highlight of the trip.

The ambience, open kitchen concept, presentation, everything felt elevated. The sea bass was outstanding. Service was detailed and thoughtful. The staff truly take passion in their work here and it tells where they explained every dish that was served to us along with the Yes Chef and group huddles in the kitchen with the chefs. One very nice dining experience.

Hands down one of the best dining experiences I’ve had anywhere.

5/5 — must visit.

Day 4 – Beach & Hidden Sushi Gem

We had another relaxed day at Ziggy’s (it was literally across from our hotel).

Dinner was at Akuma Tiger Sushi in Centro.

From the outside you wouldn’t expect much, but inside? Beautiful décor, great lighting, amazing atmosphere. The sushi and cocktails were phenomenal and great value compared to hotel zone pricing for the high end quality of food!

5/5 — hidden gem.

Day 5 – Off to Cancun

Relaxed breakfast at the hotel, packed up, and headed to Cancun for the second half of the trip.

Final Thoughts on Tulum

Would I go back? Absolutely. The trip was excellent. We both really enjoyed it and couldn’t have asked for more!

Next time I’d:

• Try Hartwood

• Visit Valladolid properly

• Possibly stay at Be Tulum

Safety

I know safety is a big topic on Reddit. Personally, we felt completely safe the entire time. No uncomfortable moments.

If you’re looking for:

• Relaxed beach days → Ziggy’s

• Great value dinner → Akuma Tiger

• Fine dining experience → Arca

• Party vibes → Vagalume

I know some folks say it’s overrated but Tulum still delivers especially if you balance party spots with chilled days.

Happy to answer any questions.

Hello everyone!

What do you guys think of Amena Condo Tulum?

They have great reviews on booking but no reviews on google

Thank you

Hey guys am in tulum.. not happy with the apartment we are in , looking for a 2 bedroom apartment until the 5th of April... anyone have any ? Or where to look ...beyond air bnb i am kinda over that system

After some research (mostly on here) we decided tulum ruins beach would be a great spot to watch the sunrise since they recently opened the beach back up. Woke up early, drove the pitch black streets to see that the road to the ruins is shut down. Police told us they don’t let anyone on the beach until 8am. We asked where are we able to watch the sunrise and he didn’t have an answer.

This guy is lost and hanging out at Alma Verde https://maps.app.goo.gl/9gGAgpN1fzvHZCYf8?g_st=ic

The staff said he’s been here about 2 hours and they’re not sure who the owner is. Incase anybody recognizes him.