In this guide I will point you through the many things to do in Tulum, whether thats laying on a bed by the beach all day, get lost at Maxa Camp Tulum or indulging in the bohemian luxury this blissful beach city in Mexico has to offer. Whatever you are craving, this guide will help you understand a little bit more what the fuzz is all about.

Welcome to the good life of Tulum.

The three main areas in Tulum

The first area to know of in Tulum is the Mayan ruins, or the Tulum Ruins. They can be found on the main highway as you head south to Tulum. From the city center of Tulum it’s only a 20 minute bike ride.

The second area is Tulum town, which is about 4,8 km from the beach. Here you can find a selection of restaurant, bars, supermarkets and small shops. Accommodation in Tulum town it’s mostly backpacker hostels and small cheap hotels, but you can also find some good apartment options on Airbnb.

The last area in Tulum is the Tulum beach strip. Like the name indicates this is the small road that runs the length of the main beach and leads you all the way to the arch. Here you can find accommodations on both the beach side and across the road, ranging from camp sites to budget to luxurious bungalows. This area has a very relaxed, bohemian feel to it, and you can find many options to dine and enjoy a drink with the sand between you toes.

The easiest way to get around in Tulum is by bike. This is the Tulum lifestyle. It is facilitated to get anywhere with a bike. Both in Tulum town and on the beach strip there are many bicycles available for rent.

The best places for food and drinks

Yes, you know it. The Mexican food fiesta is to die for. Let’s get down to business.

The best brunch in Tulum is to be found at NOMAD on the beach strip. This is a little piece of Mexican heaven with the perfect touch of Moroccan vibes. Get ready to stand in line for this treat.

Nomad is the perfect place to hangout. Join spiritual yoga and meditation classes, party until sunrise and encounter a lot of cool, open minded people. You can either bring your computer and find a nice spot to work, chill with a book, or reserve a bed by the beach and lay there all day. No need to point it out, but this place quickly became a favorite.

Restaurant Philosophy is located in the previews mansion of Pablo Escobar, Casa Malca. This is a winner for every meal, either you bike here for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The food is delicious and the interior is royal. Make sure you get the pink spot.

For the best coffee in town, you need to go to Ki’bok Coffee in Tulum town. This places features the best baristas and you always encounter a nice crowd. You may also want to try the scampi tacos and pancakes for lunch.

Little hangover maybe, and don’t feel like dressing up for a fancy dinner. Burrito Amor is the way to go. Who doesn’t like a good, spicy burrito? They have great vegetarian options too, and don’t forget to try all of their homemade dressings.

Where to stay in Tulum

You can find bohemian luxury many places in Tulum, but a quick look at what Azulik has to offer and I bet you are sold to. At Azulik Eco-Resort & Maya Spa you ge a sense of what happens when you mix luxury with jungle and a touch of spirituality.

I also recommend checking out La Valise. Breathtaking bungalow hotel located on the beach with the perfect view of the Caribbean Ocean.

Things to do in Tulum – Maxa Camp

Didn’t get to attend Burning Man this year? No worries, why not try the Maxa Camp Burning Man! You get the music, vibe and the people, the only difference is that you are on the beach, not in the desert. Maxa Camp Tulum is originally a camp on Burning Man that also do regularly events at their camp on the beach in Tulum.

The camp is a located on a big area with many chill spots and small tents. During their events they have live DJ’s, small stands with independent fashion and jewelry designers and different spiritual sessions like yoga and meditation, depending on the size of the event. The little kitchen is open when the staff decides that everyone is hungry, and then they serve small Italian sized pizzas for everyone.

If you need a moment between sessions of dancing and talking to strange men in speedos and feather vest, just find a comfy beanbag and take a little power nap. It’s plenty of them, so it’s not hard to find a little hideaway. Just don’t be surprised if the man in speedo and feather west wakes you up to a homemade Caipirinha.

Maxa Camp Tulum is not something you want to miss on your bohemian luxury trip to Tulum.

Explore the cenotes

If you want to experience something you probably never done before, you need to check out the cenotes in the area around Tulum. This is the true homeland of mermaids. It will be an out-of-this-world-experience to discover some of this magnificent natural sinkholes. Find out which one is the most mind-blowing and when to go where in my article about cenotes.

Probably the most touristic place in Mexico, but Chichen Itza is worth seeing. If you decide to visit this popular attraction, try to arrive early, early in the morning. It will still be a line, but if you rush in at 8 am when they open, you will manage to get some photos without the mass of people.

Life is all about saving at the right times and splurging at the right times. Bohemian luxury in Tulum is something I highly recommend. Bring your friends or get lost with your lover.