Tulum With Kids: 31 Kid-Friendly Things to Do Tulum in 2024

SEARCHING FOR TULUM THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS?

If so, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018, and have made it my mission to find all the best activities in Tulum for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Whether you’re visiting Tulum for two days or 20 days, this list of the Top 31 Best Things to Do in Tulum with Kids will keep you busy — and help you plan an unforgettable Tulum itinerary.

I cover everything from the best kid-friendly beach club Tulum has available, to Tulum extreme adventures, to fun, free, and low-key diversions for all ages.

Whether you’re looking for things to do in Tulum with toddlers or young kids, Tulum activities for teens, or you’re traveling to Tulum with a baby — this list has plenty of great options of kid-friendly Tulum activities for you and the youngsters in your family.

The 31 Best Things to Do in Tulum With Kids

1. Explore Tulum Ruins

The Mayan Ruins of Tulum Mexico are a must-visit and one of the most iconic Tulum landmarks.

They are the only Mayan Ruins located on a cliffside overlooking the Caribbean Sea, which many say makes them the most beautiful ruins in Mexico.

The Tulum Ruins Archeological Site is located on Tulum Beach, just two miles (3 km) from Downtown Tulum.

They are accessible on these best Tulum Ruins tours by scooter, bicycle, on foot, by taxi, or rental car, and it takes 10-15 minutes to drive there in normal traffic from downtown.

If you can, try to leave the stroller behind, and be prepared to walk a lot. Using a carrier may make visiting Tulum with a toddler easier.

💡 Tulum Ruins Pro Tips: If there’s one great Tulum Ruins tip, it’s that you want to arrive early to beat the crowds and explore the whole site before the midday sun starts beating down.

You can go on your own, or book this Tulum Ruins Without the Crowds Tour.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

2. Visit Rio Secreto Underground River

Río Secreto (or “Secret River” in Spanish) is part of a massive underground river system located about 45 minutes from Tulum near Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

It was discovered in 2006, and is now a protected nature reserve that can only be visited with a guide.

I recommend this Best Rio Secreto Tour because it has a near-perfect 5 Star rating ⭐️ and also includes round-trip transportation from Tulum as well as lunch.

Once you’re fitted for a life jacket, helmet, and headlamp, you’ll venture beneath the Earth to walk and swim through the cave.

As you float around, don’t forget to look up and admire all the unique stalactite rock formations at one of the coolest things to do near Tulum. 

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

3. Enjoy the Yucatan Adventure Parks

Adding a dose of hooting-hollering fun will make your Tulum with kids vacation extra special.

To hit some of the best water parks in Mexico, don’t miss the Xcaret Parks in Riviera Maya, including Xcaret (pronounced esh-car-ette), Xel-Ha (shell-ha), and Xplor (Explore).

Xcaret Park (For All Ages)

Xcaret is another beautiful natural and cultural-themed park in the Maya Riviera. It’s the perfect answer to the question, Is Tulum kid-friendly?

If you were on the fence, Xcaret should push you firmly off. This park is perfect for kids of all ages, even from two years old and up.

Check out the caves, the Mexican Cemetery, the Aviary, the aquarium, and Children’s World.

XPlor Park (For Ages 6+)

XPlor is a unique adventure park perfect for the older kids ages six and up who like adventure activities.

Here, you can raft through underground caverns studded with stalagmites, zoom through the jungle on ATVs, and zip-line through the treetops. Kids can choose between the easier and more challenging courses for each activity.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

4. Swim in the Kid-Friendly Tulum Cenotes

1. Cenote Zacil-Ha

When traveling to Tulum Mexico with kids, the Zacil-Ha Tulum Cenote is one of the most family-friendly cenotes in Tulum that you’ll want to add to your Tulum itinerary.

There are onsite restaurants, plenty of lounge chairs and hammocks to relax in, a zipline, a regular swimming pool that’s basically a mini-water park, and even cabins you can stay the night in.

2. Cenote Yax-Kin

A popular camping cenote and one of the best Tulum cenotes for kids, the water at Yax Kin Cenote is shallow in a lot of parts, which is perfect for the younger kids. 

If you have children who do swim, there’s also lots of space for them to swim around and even an underwater cave to swim through.

3. El Gran Cenote (Grand Cenote Tulum)

Gran Cenote, meaning Large Cenote, is one of the most popular Tulum cenotes.

This place is very big (as the name says) and boasts a series of cenotes connected by wooden walkways through the jungle. 

It also has shallow areas for younger children, and deeper sections perfect for older kids and adults. It also great snorkeling and plenty of amenities, like lockers, restrooms, showers, hammocks to relax in, and more.

This cenote is also one of the prettiest cenotes in Tulum Mexico. My advice? Don’t skip Gran Cenote Tulum.

⭐️ BONUS: Best Cenotes Near Tulum

When anyone asks me for Tulum tips on what to do in Tulum for a day, I always recommend cenote hopping because there are so many! 

While there are a lot of great cenotes in Tulum, you’ll also find some of the best Mexico cenotes just outside Tulum.

These include Cenote Ik-Kil near Chichen Itza Ruins, Cenote Suytun, Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Caracol, Cenote Azul near Playa del Carmen, and Cenote Oxman near Valladolid — though there are many, many more.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

5. Swim With the Turtles in Akumal

Akumal is a small Mexican beach town located about 30 minutes north of Tulum by car. Of all the best things to do in Akumal, there’s none more famous than going snorkeling with the turtles in Akumal Bay.

A few years back, when this became very popular, the Mexican government restricted the number of daily visitors to ensure the turtles’ safety.

To visit, you must book a tour to snorkel with the turtles in Akumal Bay, and there are only a handful of companies sanctioned to do these tours, so make sure you’re booking with one of them.

🐢 When I did the Akumal turtle swim, I booked with this well-rated company.

Not only can I vouch that they conduct an ethical animal encounter, but they also take GoPro photos of the whole experience and give you the photos afterwards (like the one above).

If Akumal turtle tours are on your bucket list, don’t hesitate to book ASAP because these often sell out due to there being only a certain number of people allowed to go each day.

Note: Akumal turtle season runs from May to November. While you can see turtles year-round, this is the best time to see the turtles in Akumal Mexico.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

6. Take Family Pictures with a Photographer

Let’s face it: getting family photos can be tough, especially if you’re relying on a timer and tripod–or worse, trying to cram everyone into a selfie.

Instead, why not splurge on professional family photos that will look jaw-dropping in your living room?

If that sounds good, consider booking this photo shoot with award-winning French photographer Clément. He’ll capture beautiful family moments in four of Tulum’s most popular photo spots. 

📸 You’ll come away with a fun time of connection plus 25 HD photos ready to print and frame.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

7. Boat Tour to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve & Muyil Ruins

Sian Kaan Tulum nature Reserve

Sian Ka’an, meaning the origin of the sky in Mayan, is a 1.3 million-acre natural reserve (5,260 km²) and one of Mexico’s most ecologically diverse regions.

The best (and really, the only) way to explore its vastness is on a boat tour.

My pick for the best Sian Kaan tour from Tulum with kids is this Sian Ka’an Adventure to Punta Allen. This full-day guided trip will take you and your family into the beauties of the biosphere reserve. 

You’ll seek out manatees, snorkel on a reef, and go birding at Ascension Bay. You’ll spend time on a fun bumpy road, then explore the coastal lagoons by boat.

One of the largest ecological reserves in Mexico, Sian Kaan is home to stunning crystal clear waters ideal for swimming and diverse animal life.

On your tour, get ready to see everything from dolphins and manatees to sea turtles and various endemic birds.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

8. Relax at a Family-Friendly Tulum Beach Club

Take your surf-and-sand days to the next level by relaxing at one of the top kid friendly Tulum beach clubs.

Papaya Playa is a fabulous spot to visit with your family. The beach beds and chairs are extremely comfortable, and there’s great shade from the palm trees.

Live music makes it that much better. Kids can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and water sports from this beach.

Papaya Playa is near several kid-friendly restaurants when their little tummies start to rumble.

La Zebra Tulum is another excellent Tulum beach Mexico club perfect for enjoying Tulum Mexico with kids. There are activity stations for the kids, great beach beds, delicious food and drink options, and unparalleled service. 

The kids will love painting at the easels and choosing from a massive selection of beach toys while you lounge in the sun.

👧 Traveling to Tulum with kids, and need a hotel recommendation? La Zebra is easily one of the best Tulum hotels for families, and there is even a small wooden playground on the beach for them to enjoy.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

9. Take a Tulum Catamaran Cruise

Sail past the Mayan Ruins on this Catamaran Cruise in Tulum, and give yourself and your children the experience of a lifetime.

There’s something extra special about floating almost soundlessly over the waves with no motor noise destroying the tranquility.

During this experience, you’ll get to see the Tulum Ruins from the ocean and go snorkeling at a reef.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

10. Visit the Tallest Pyramid in the Yucatan at Coba Ruins

Coba Ruins has been an underrated destination among tourists, as many opt for the more famous Chichen Itza Ruins.

However, in the Chichen Itza vs Coba debate, I always pick Coba for two reasons:

• First, the Coba Ruins are larger than Chichen Itza, and there’s more to explore — which is why you want this Tulum and Coba Ruins tour guide to show you around.
• Second, there are fewer crowds at Coba, making it ideal for visitors seeking a quieter but equally insightful adventure.

Also, the beauty and culture of the ancient Mayan Ruins of Coba are undeniable.

You’ll be taken aback by the jungle surroundings, the well-preserved history of the ruins, and all its structures like Ixmoja Pyramid (AKA Nohoch Mul), the tallest pyramid in Yucatan Mexico.

Standing at 137 feet tall (41 meters), the Nohoch Mul Pyramid at Coba is the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan.

To visit Coba from Tulum, you can drive yourself in your rental car or take the ADO bus. If you prefer a tour, my top pick is this Ultimate Coba Ruins Expedition. It has a near-perfect 5-Star rating ⭐️ and includes a cenote swim and lunch in a Mayan community.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

11. Visit Playa Paraiso Tulum: Home to the Leaning Palm Tree in Tulum

Playa Paraíso (meaning Paradise Beach) is the most famous, most popular, and some say the most beautiful beach in Tulum.

It’s also home to the famous Tulum slanted palm trees, which make for a great photo op. The beach itself, while very popular, tends to feel peaceful despite the crowds.

An expansive and long stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, Playa Paraíso, stretches for many miles along the Caribbean Coast, so you’ll always find a spot to call your own.

There are a few great Tulum hotels on the beach here, including El Paraiso Hotel Tulum. The adjoining Playa Paraiso Beach Club is one of the best Tulum beach clubs and one of the most popular spots on Playa Paraíso Beach.

Here, you’ll find one of those famous slanted palm trees in Tulum where you can take some great photos.

Visitors can also rent beach chairs, enjoy a cold beer or cocktail, and enjoy the upbeat atmosphere at the beach club.

🏖️ Playa Paraiso Amenities: There are several Tulum beach clubs here (with food and drinks for purchase and chairs, sunbeds and umbrellas for rent). For maximum comfort and convenience, this is the way to go.

Limited parking is available, and lifeguards are on duty during the busy season, which runs from approximately November to March. 

There are also several Tulum family resorts all-inclusive options here as well.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

12. Enjoy More of the Best Tulum Beaches

🏖️ Playa Ruinas (Tulum Ruins Beach)

This so-called Tulum Ruins Beach is located just below the Tulum Ruins. It is a small beach cove and tends to fill up quickly, so the best time to visit is early in the day.

To access the beach, you can take the staircase down from the ruins — but know that at high tide, you can’t go down to this beach because the water envelopes the sand.

Playa Ruinas Amenities: There are sometimes vendors selling cold water and snacks, but that’s about it. If you’re coming from the Tulum Ruins, you can use their bathrooms.

🏖️ Playa Las Palmas

Soft sand and beautiful water make Playa Las Palmas (Palm Tree Beach) a perfect place to spend your days.

This beach is lined with restaurants and beachfront hotels with beach clubs. Get there early if you plan to rent a chair or bed.

Spending time on the fabled white sands of the Caribbean is one of the best Tulum things to do with kids.

And if you are looking for a beach with kid friendly restaurants Tulum options, this is the perfect option.

Playa Las Palmas Amenities: Beach clubs and hotels, lots of food and drink options from restaurants and local vendors, very limited paid car parking, but plenty of bicycle parking.

🏖️ Playa Pescadores

Thanks to its convenient location near Tulum Ruins, Playa Pescadores (meaning Fisherman’s Beach) is another one of the most popular Tulum beaches.

As the name says, this is where the fisherman come ashore to bring their fresh catch into town for sale.

If you get there in the early morning, you’ll even see them and their picturesque wooden boats.

Playa Pescadores Amenities: Restaurants and bars, public restrooms and showers, and limited public parking is available.

Kiosks selling excursions like snorkeling tours, bike tours, boat tours are also available.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

13. Swim at Laguna Kaan Luum Lagoon

This fabulous Laguna Kaan Luum Lagoon & Cenote is only a 10-minute drive from downtown Tulum in your rental car.

Personally, it is one of my favorite places in Yucatan and the Riviera Maya for swimming.

With nice amenities at Kaan Luum Lagoon, like snack shops, restrooms, showers, and a large wooden deck with umbrellas for shade and benches to relax on, you can enjoy the whole day here.

If you only want to visit for an hour or two, you can also do that.

You can visit alone or book this Mayan Cenotes & Kaan Luum Lagoon Tour. It will take you to some of the best cenotes in Tulum, including a cave cenote located underground and Kaan Luum Lagoon. 

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

14. Marvel at Mystika Immersive Tulum Art Exhibit

Kids, teens, and adults alike will love Mystika’s immersive art exhibit. The stunning images, deep creativity, and multi-sensory displays are sure to make for a memorable experience.

Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours here to really soak it all in.

Located right next to the Tulum Ruins Archeological Site, I’d recommend going there early in the morning, then heading to Mystika in the afternoon to enjoy the art (and the AC 😁).

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

15. Explore Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, One of the Seven Wonders of the World

As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (and the only one in North America), does Chichen Itza even need an introduction!?

These are the most-famous and most-visited Mayan Ruins in Mexico, and a bucket list item for many.

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chichen Itza is a massive place at four square miles (10 km²). When you visit, plan for at least 2.5-3 hours if you want to see it all without feeling rushed, as there are more than 25 structures to see.

How to Visit Chichen Itza from Tulum

While everything is cool to look at if you don’t have someone to explain the significance, symbolism, and history, you’re kinda just looking at rocks 🗿

I’ve been to Chichen Itza with and without a guide, and let me say it was 1,000 times more interesting with one.

If you’re considering a Tulum to Chichen Itza tour, here are the three highest-rated options:

• Chichen Itza Tour with a Yucatan Native
• Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Day Trip
• Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Private Tour

If you prefer, you can get from Tulum to Chichen Itza on your own.

The Tulum to Chichen Itza distance is about 95 miles (152 km), and the drive usually takes just under 2.5 hours in normal traffic. You can go by rental car or on the ADO bus.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

16. Snap Some Photos at the Iconic Ven a la Luz Tulum Sculpture

Ven a la Luz (Spanish for Come Into the Light) is a 33-foot (10 m) tall giant wooden sculpture.

It was made by South African artist Daniel Popper and was first installed for the Art With Me Tulum Festival in 2018.

Thanks to Instagram, it became one of the most photographed Tulum sites and really helped put Tulum on the map.

One of the Tulum must-see attractions, people would line up for hours to take a photo here.

It got so popular (and crowded) that it had to be moved off the Tulum Beach Road, where it once served as the entrance to the Ahau Tulum Hotel and Raw Love Cafe.

Ven a la Luz is now located in the Tulum Sculpture Park, and here’s what you need to know if you want to take a photo at the Tulum Ven a la Luz statue:

• 💰 Tulum Sculpture Park Admission: $60 pesos, or about $3 USD
• ⏰ Tulum Sculpture Park Hours: The Tulum Sculpture Park is open daily, from 9am-6pm
• ⭐️ Best time to go to Tulum Sculpture Park: To avoid the crowds, visit right when they open, from 9am-10am, or just before they close, from 5pm-6pm.
• 📍 Tulum Sculpture Park Address: Ahau Tulum Hotel, Carretera Tulum a Boca Paila, KM 7.5, Zona Costera, 77760 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Find it on Google Maps, or look for it across the street from Casa Jaguar Tulum.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

17. Take a Pottery Class in Tulum

Get creative together by playing in clay and immersing yourself in the culture and traditions of Tulum while you’re at it.

Consider taking this Traditional Pottery Workshop in Tulum. You’ll learn how to build an object by hand using pre-Hispanic techniques and Mexican clay.

It’s a quiet, calm, zen-like atmosphere in a small oasis great for the whole family.

This Pottery workshop is another excellent choice. You’ll learn how to build some pieces, then paint an already-fired piece using enamel paint.

You and the fam will discover how to paint using Mexico’s traditional styles and techniques.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

18. Go on a Food Tour in Tulum

Whether you’re looking for a Tulum street food and walking tour combo or haute cuisine and fine dining with a private chef in Tulum, it’s all in Tulum!

Below you’ll find a few of the best Tulum food tours and best taco tours in Tulum to help you eat your way through Tulum like a local.

1. Tacos & Tulum Cenotes

Few things say Yucatan like cenotes and tacos, so why not combine the two experiences into a single incredible day? All the planning is done for you during this combined Tulum Taco Tour and Tulum Cenotes Tour. 

2. Tulum Local Walking Food Tour

Skip the touristy parts of town on this Tulum Local Walking Food Tour . You and your kids will love trying all kinds of popular snacks and traditional dishes.

Plus, you’ll learn all about the history of the food and its importance in the Yucatán Peninsula–educational and tasty.

3. Best Tulum Taco tour

Tacos are the name of the game during this Tulum Street Food Tour.

On it, you’ll sample everything from tacos de picadillo, tacos de chorizo verde, and tacos al pastor — the most popular of all traditional Mexico tacos.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

19. Swim With the Whale Sharks in Tulum (June-September Only)

As someone who did the whale shark tour from Isla Mujeres, let me just say that this is one of those Tulum excursions you do not want to miss!

It really was a bucket list experience to swim alongside the biggest fish in the sea.

If this is on your bucket list as well, book your Tulum whale shark tour ASAP because spots are limited.

There are several restrictions in place by the Mexican government to ensure the whale sharks’ safety — like limiting the number of boats that can go per day.

⚠️ Note: These tours are only available from (approx.) June 1 to September 15, during the Mexico whale shark season.

After that time, the whale sharks leave Mexico and continue their migration journey, so tours don’t go out after the season ends.

If you will be in Tulum during the June to September season, you will need to book a tour to do the Tulum whale sharks swim because you have to go several miles off shore by boat to reach the whale shark zone.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

20. Go on a Kayak Adventure

Bond as a family while you venture into the beauties of Tulum’s waterways via kayak or paddleboard.

There’s nothing like the quiet dip of the paddle, the musical hum of nature all around you, and the excitement of seeing wildlife up close. It’s an immersive experience perfect for kids and adults alike.

One of the best kayak experiences out of Tulum is this Kayaking and Snorkeling Experience Through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.

During the Tulum with kids tour, you’ll kayak, snorkel, see birds and alligators, and eat delicious guacamole and fresh fruit.

Depending on the time of day, you might even get to watch the sunset over the water.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

21. Rent a Bike in Tulum to Explore

Wondering, Can you get around Tulum on a bike? Yes — Tulum is a very bike-friendly place.

In fact, many visitors choose bicycles as their primary mode of transport to explore the town, beaches, and nearby attractions because you can get to many of the Tulum best things to do by bike.

Tulum bike rentals are very easy to find since there are places all over Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum) that rent them.

I will warn you that not all companies are created equal, and not all places have well-maintained bikes.

One of the top-rated companies, I always recommend booking your Tulum bike rental with Ola Bike Tulum.

I love them because they will deliver the bike to your Tulum hotel or Tulum hostel, and pick it up when you have to return it.

L0oking for the Best Tulum Bike Tour with a Local Guide?

I recommend this Tulum Cenotes Trail Bike Tour — a top-rated Tulum bike tour with a near perfect 5-star rating that takes you to three cenotes.

You’ll go with a local guide named Alejandro to places you’d never find on your own, but in a safe way with someone who knows the area.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

22. Take a Cooking Class in Tulum

👩🏼‍🍳 Cooking together as a family can be a fun and tasty bonding experience.

What better way to make your trip to Tulum Mexico for kids extra special than by learning and making traditional Mexican cuisine together?

The best part is you can make the food again once you’re home and bask in the memories and flavors.

Here, it’s all about traditional Yucatan foods like cochinita pibil, poc chuc, relleno negro, sopa de lima, and panuchos.

Have no clue what I just said?! Then you better book this Tulum cooking class ASAP!

On it, you’ll get the chance to make a meal from scratch with a Mexican Chef Lily Rivera, who uses only local ingredients and recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

23. Learn About & Taste Chocolate

Who doesn’t love chocolate? Treat your sweet tooth (and that of your children) to a delicious education experience with one of Tulum’s great chocolate experiences.

Book this Immersive Artisanal Chocolate Tasting Experience or this Immersive Artisanal Mexican Chocolate Tasting for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn the history of chocolate. 

Besides tasting and smelling cacao and chocolate, you’ll also discover how the Olmecs, Mayas, and Aztecs made this rich and delicious treat.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

24. Take a Tulum Day Trip

Though there are countless must do things in Tulum, there are also many things to do in Yucatan and the areas surrounding Tulum.

Within 30 minutes to 2.5 hours of Tulum, you’ll find colorful Colonial cities, swimmable beaches, beautiful cenotes, Mayan Ruins (including one of the Seven Wonders of the World), Mexican pueblos magicos (magic towns), and much more.

If you’re renting a car or don’t mind using the buses, you have A LOT of amazing Tulum day trips to choose from — but in the interest of keeping this article manageable, here are the Top 5 best day trips from Tulum Mexico:

1. Bacalar Lagoon: The Maldives of Mexico

Bacalar Lagoon is often called the Maldives of Mexico, as it has the same crystal-clear blue waters as the Maldives Islands.

There are quite a few things to do in Bacalar, including a blissful swim in beautiful Laguna Bacalar (AKA Bacalar Lake or Bacalar Lagoon), this Bacalar boat tour, a visit to Los Rapidos Beach Club, or you can check out the Bacalar cenotes, like Cenote Azul.

If you’re looking for the best Tulum to Bacalar Tour, I recommend this Bacalar Lagoon Tour from Tulum.

Of course, if you’re renting a car, you can drive there on your own; it will take about 2.5-3 hours in normal traffic.

2. Isla Holbox Island

Isla Holbox Island (pronounced hole-bosh) is one of the Mexican Caribbean islands, along with Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and Isla Contoy.

It is actually somewhat similar to Tulum with its bohemian feel. However, Holbox is much more laid-back than Tulum — and in fact, many say it’s similar to the “old Tulum” of 2015, you know, before it was famous.

One of the best things to do at Isla Holbox with kids is head to the beach. The warm turquoise waters are delightfully calm.

You can also walk to Punta Mosquito together (a 90-minute walk out) and explore the island via golf cart.

As an island, you do need to get there by boat. To catch the Holbox ferry, you will need to first get to the small town of Chiquilá. Here, you’ll board the Chiquilá to Holbox ferry, which takes about 25-30 minutes.

If you don’t have a rental car to drive from Tulum to Chiquilá, the easiest and best way to get from Tulum to Holbox Island is on this tour — so all you have to do is kick back, relax and enjoy.

3. Valladolid Pueblo Magico

Valladolid is an increasingly popular Mexico travel destination.

It is also one of the country’s 175 or so pueblos magicos (Mexico magic towns), and known as one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico — so get that camera ready.

Aside from all the pretty pictures you’ll take in Downtown Valladolid, there’s also great shopping on the Calzada de los Frailes, restaurants in Valladolid to sample authentic Yucatan food, cenotes near Valladolid, Mayan Ruins just outside of town, and more.

Consider joining the local families in one of the small picturesque squares in the evening for fun and games.

At night, there’s a FREE video mapping display on the side of the Valladolid Convent (Ex-Convent of San Bernardino de Siena).

You can visit on your own by rental car or bus, or book this Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour. With a perfect 5-Star rating and 15,000+ review, this is undeniably the best Tulum to Valladolid tour.

4. Izamal: The Yellow City

Izamal is a small colonial town and one of the best Yucatan pueblos magicos (magic towns). It’s known as the Yellow City in Mexico because all of its buildings are painted the same shade of yellow.

Downtown Izamal is on the smaller size, but there’s still plenty to see, like the Convent of San Antonio de Padua (Izamal church), Mercado Municipal (Izamal market) and Kinich Kakmo Pyramid (Izamal Mayan Ruins).

Your kids are sure to enjoy the convent since it’s the town’s centerpiece. It also features a wide open area where your kids can run around letting off steam.

5. Cozumel Island

Cozumel Mexico is one of the top Mexico travel destinations because it has some of the best diving and best snorkeling in Mexico.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest reef in the world, is located just off-shore from the beaches of Cozumel.

Once you arrive, you can take this Cozumel Jeep tour to explore the whole island, which has amazing parks, natural areas and beaches, like Playa Palancar and Playa Chen Rio.

There’s also San Gervasio Mayan Ruins on Cozumel Island, and Cozumel beach clubs to enjoy.

One of the most amazing things to do in Cozumel with kids is this Atlantis Submarine experience.

You’ll descend into the Caribbean sighting sea turtles and schools of fish–all without getting wet. 🧒 Note: Kids must be at least 36 inches tall and 3 years old or older to go on this tour.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

25. Ride ATVs Through the Jungle

Looking for adventurous things to do in Tulum? For thrill seekers, an ATV tour is a must do in Tulum because nothing beats roaring through the jungle on a four-wheeler!

Combine the adrenaline of driving a quad with refreshing dips in underground cenotes and an exploratory trip through the Tulum Ruins — or enjoy the wind in your face with a fun zipline course through the treetops.

My personal recommendation for the best Tulum ATV tour is this Archaeology and Adventure Tulum Tour, with a near-perfect 5 Star rating.

On it, you’ll ride ATVs, go on three ziplines, swim in cave cenotes, visit Mayan archeological sites, and more.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

26. Attend a Temazcal Ceremony

Looking for things to do in Tulum with older kids?

Tulum has abundance of authentic cultural experiences, so why not take advantage and introduce your kids to a uniquely Mayan activity — a temazcal?

Mayan bathhouses, or temazcales, are a beautiful part of the local culture. Beyond getting the body clean, these purification ceremonies are linked to emotional and spiritual well-being.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

27. Explore Punta Laguna Nature Reserve

If there’s one thing your kids are going to love, it’ll be ziplining through the jungle. But there’s more to do at Punta Laguna Nature Reserve than soar through the trees.

You and your kids can rappel into a cenote, canoe across the lovely lagoon, visit an archaeological site, and even participate in a Mayan purification ceremony.

Located in the Otoch Ma’ax Yetel Kooh National Protected Area, and run by the residents of a local Mayan village, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve is the best place to see howler monkeys, spider monkeys, iguanas, birds and other animals in their natural habitat.

You can visit on your own if you’re renting a car in Tulum, but if you want to go with a tour, here are the best tours to Punta Laguna Reserve:

• Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve & Cenote Dos Ojos Snorkel Tour
• Private Tour: Jungle Adventure at Punta Laguna Nature Reserve
• Coba Mayan Ruins, Punta Laguna, Cenote Swim & Visit a Mayan Family

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

28. Visit the Best Beaches Near Tulum

Once you’ve enjoyed the top beaches in Tulum itself, you might want to explore some of the nearby beaches as well.

There’s Punta Allen AKA the Tulum secret beach, and Akumal Beach, is are two of the best beaches near Tulum. However, this other nearby beach is also worth putting on the docket:

🏝️ El Ultimo Maya

This is a gorgeous beach club located within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. While only about 35 minutes south of Tulum by rental car, it will feel like you’re a world apart in terms of crowds and ambiance.

You and your family will feel like you’ve entered a relaxing yet wild-feeling beach, complete with delicious food and comfy sunbeds. Note: You need to pay a fee to enter El Último Maya Park.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

29. Go on a Mexican Honey Experience

Did you know that not all honey bees have stingers? It’s true! Mexico’s Mayan stingless bees are gentle (often tiny) insects that make very special kinds of honey. Each honey has its own unique flavor, texture, and color.

🐝 You might even get to feed the bees, which is a distinctive and unforgettable experience.

Learn about the native bees, see the inside of the hives (no danger from stings), and sample honey alongside cheese, bread, and fruit. This activity is suitable for kids ages 6 and up.

Things to Do in Tulum with kids

30. Have Breakfast or Brunch in the Jungle

Eat breakfast or brunch beneath a lush canopy of trees on this Brunch in the Jungle Experience. You’ll eat a delicious smorgasbord of tasty foods straight from your host’s garden.

Your kids will have a blast eating, feeding the animals, and soaking in the wild environment.

Quentin, the host, is great with kids and serves up excellent conversation with learning points in addition to tasty cuisine.

If you’re looking for a more upscale Tulum with kids option, how about eating breakfast from floating baskets inside a swimming pool?

This floating breakfast experience is a great way to relax and enjoy the magic of Tulum.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

31. Wander Azulik Uh May Museum

Located about 30 minutes from Tulum in the small Yucatan pueblo of Francisco Uh May, lies Azulik Uh May. From the photos alone, you might be able to tell this place is hard to put into words — but let’s try!

Part contemporary art museum, part interactive play space, part jungle village, Azulik Uh May showcases a rotating line-up of installations from renowned artists.

There are indoor and outdoor spaces to enjoy and plenty of photo ops at this visual masterpiece.

You can visit on your own if you have a Tulum rental car, but there’s not really any public transportation that will get you here. You can also book this Tulum to Azulik Uh May Tour, and leave the logistics to your guide.

🎨 SFER IK Tulum

For a similar experience in Tulum itself, head to the SFER IK Museion (which you will usually see spelled as SFER IK Museum).

This creative space features exhibitions from the world’s best visual artists, as well as artist workshops that focus on interdisciplinary projects. It’s one of the coolest places in Tulum for art lovers.

SFER IK admission is $20 USD per person. You can take photos with your phone camera, but there’s an extra cost to use a professional camera.

Traveling to Tulum With Kids: FAQ

Its gorgeous white-sand beaches, tranquil turquoise water, and family-friendly Mexican culture make it a great choice for a family vacation. 

Whether you’re doing a Tulum with baby, with young kids, or with teens trip, Tulum’s bohemian jungle and Caribbean vibes offer plenty of age-appropriate activities. 

Teens and young kids are sure to love these adventure parks, Mayan Ruins, tasty ice cream, and chances to swim with sea turtles. They may even ask you to consider moving to Tulum Mexico!

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest reports and take appropriate precautions.

For example, you may wish to use this private driver to get from the Cancun Airport to Tulum if you don’t feel comfortable driving yourself and your family.

And although it should go without saying, avoid sketchy activities related to drugs and alcohol.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Simply ensure you have a source of clean drinking water, and figure out how to keep your baby comfortable in a hot climate while preventing mosquito bites.

A blogger family who traveled to Mexico with their 12-week-old son recommended packing the following items when visiting Tulum Mexico with kids:

• Insect repellant with DEET (safe for babies aged 2 months old and older)
• Mosquito net for your baby carrier
• Frogg Togg towels (cooling towels)
• Clip-on fan
• Baby-safe sunscreen
• Lightweight clothing

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

The beautiful Zacil Ha Cenote is perfect for families with kids. It is an open-air cenote with crystal-clear water and spots where your kiddos can leap off the edge. You can even go zip-lining across the cenote. 

El Gran Cenote is another great Tulum with kids option, as it has shallow areas where young kids can wade, as well as deeper sections for older kids and adults.

For the little kids, there’s Yax-Kin Cenote. This one is a Tulum hidden gem, frequented mostly by locals.

For this reason, it’s usually not very crowded. Also, there are plenty of shallow areas where babies can sit in the water.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Another Tulum with kids option includes going on this honey experience to learn about Mayan stingless bees.

You can even take this chocolate workshop to discover (and savor) the flavors of the ancient Maya and Aztecs.

Mystika Immersive Tulum offers a multi-sensory journey into Mayan history and cosmology, while this temazcal Mayan bathhouse experience will expose your older kids to the cultural traditions of the region.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

You can also bike around town, checking out the street art murals and enjoying the colors, sounds, and culture.

In the Tulum Beach Zone, you can take pictures at the Follow that Dream sign. If you can budget for drinks, you can also stop at Matcha Mamma for delicious smoothies and photo ops.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

You can also explore the night markets and eat tons of delicious tacos. 

Alternatively, add an adrenaline boost to your Tulum with kids family travel with a nighttime trip to Xplor Fuego Park.

You’ll zipline beneath a starry sky, ATV through jungly rivers en route to a crocodile pit, and swim in an underground river.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

This boutique luxury hotel has a stunning semi-private beachfront, a fabulous restaurant, and three pools.

Their gorgeous penthouse sleeps up to four people and includes two king beds, an outdoor jacuzzi, a terrace with ocean views, and exclusive access to the hotel’s rooftop pool. 

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

This is one of the best Tulum resorts for kids as it sits right on Tulum Beach, features a cool Mayan Temple theme, and has large rooms for families.

Sueños has a guest-only concept, unlike some other resorts that have beach clubs which are open to everyone.

Here, you can enjoy the exclusive guest-only beachfront and lounge chairs — away from the party crowds in Tulum.

In short: Tulum kid-friendly resorts don’t get better than this!

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

• Una Vida Tulum gives you the chance to stay in private villas nestled in a lush jungle paradise.
• Jashita Tulum Hotel is a luxurious option with private plunge pools, sea-view and garden-view rooms, outdoor pools, and its own private beach.
• Dreams Tulum All Inclusive is also worth considering, especially thanks to the Dreams Tulum Kids Club.

Tulum Travel Guide

🗺️ Tulum Map

Still wondering, Just where is Tulum Mexico located exactly? The map above should help, but here’s some more context for you.

Tulum is about 1.5 to 2 hours south of Cancun (don’t worry; the Tulum Cancun trip is an easy one) and 45 minutes to 1 hour south of Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.

All three cities, as well as Tulum, are located in Quintana Roo state. This is one of the three Mexico states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula; the others are Yucatan state and Campeche state.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

However, some travelers are still using Cancun International Airport (code: CUN) and booking this Cancun to Tulum shuttle.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

🚌 Private Shuttle: Cancun to Tulum Transfer service

I recommend Cancun Airport Transportation Services, which has an impressive 4.7 out of 5 Star rating on TripAdvisor.

It is the highest-rated and best Cancun to Tulum private shuttle service available.

This Cancun to Tulum shuttle is also the easiest, fastest, most stress-free and hassle-free way to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum with door to door service!

It is also the fastest way to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport.

Book your Tulum Shuttle now with Cancun Airport Transportation →︎

This is a nice option because your private transportation service will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to Tulum.

After a long day of travel, having someone waiting to take you from the airport straight to your hotel in Tulum is the best start to the trip.

✈️ Tulum Travel Tips: When you search for flights to Tulum, you can use Cancun Airport or Tulum Airport. The airport in Tulum is called Aeropuerto Internacional de Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto, or Tulum International Airport (code: TQO).

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

However, doing Tulum on a budget is completely possible by making it a point to save money here and there. One way is opting for street food taco stands over restaurants.

Another tip is to stay in Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum) instead of staying on the beach. In fact, eating, drinking and shopping will all cost less in downtown than on Tulum beach, as it’s less touristy.

🏡 Need a Tulum place to stay that’s budget-friendly? Check out these 11 Best Cheap Hotels in Tulum Mexico, and these 17 Best Tulum Hostels.

If you’re a budget traveler, there are many other cheap Mexico beach towns you can visit instead of Tulum.

These cheaper options include Sayulita, Zihuatanejo, Puerto Escondido, El Cuyo and Bacalar Lagoon, though it’s not technically a beach.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

What’s the best place to stay in Tulum?

🏝️ Best Tulum Beachfront Hotels

While they certainly don’t always come cheap, Tulum hotels on the beach are the way to go for most travelers.

Staying on the beach in the Tulum Hotel Zone means you’re in the middle of all the action and within walking distance of everything you’d need.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

What are the best neighborhoods in Tulum?

🏝️ Tulum Beach

If you discovered Tulum on social media or YouTube, what you’ve likely seen is Tulum Beach.

You might have even seen some of these unique Tulum glamping options or these best all-inclusive Tulum resorts.

This is where you’ll find all the beautiful large-scale art installations, beachfront eco-resorts like Alaya Tulum, high end restaurants, cool bars, and all the Instagram worthy places in Tulum.

🏩 Tulum Town (Downtown)

Tulum Town is also called Tulum Pueblo, and it’s the downtown area where many Tulum locals live.

If you’re doing Tulum budget travel, you’ll want to stay here in downtown.

It has a charm all its own, but this is not the Tulum you’ve seen on Instagram — that’s Tulum Beach. However, you can always stay in Tulum Town to save some money, and spend most of your time at the beach.

🏨 Aldea Zama Tulum

The Aldea Zama neighborhood is located between Tulum Town and Tulum Beach.

Besides this great central location, it’s walkable, there’s plenty of restaurants, and newer construction apartment buildings with nice amenities.

When I visit Tulum, I usually stay here because you can often find great deals for Airbnb Tulum Mexico options in Aldea Zama.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Use the links below for a rundown on what to expect in each month. These articles provide general weather information, travel tips, and information on activities to do in Tulum during each month.

🌡️ Tulum Weather & Temperatures

Tulum has a tropical climate, so plan for hot weather all year long. Tulum temperatures average about 83-87° Fahrenheit (28-30° Celsius) in the fall and winter, and 93-97°F (33-36°C) in spring and summer.

Keep in mind that summer in Tulum is very humid — and it will often feel 5-10°F (2-3°C) hotter than the number reads. Don’t forget to pack your reusable water bottle so you stay hydrated.

💧 I recommend and use a Water-To-Go bottle with a built-in, three-stage water filter. They will filter your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico. Use code SOLO15 for 15% OFF your purchase.

Located in the tropics, it will likely rain daily from about May to October, though storms tend to pass quickly.

June 1-November 30 is Atlantic Hurricane Season and Tulum Hurricane Season, though direct hit hurricanes are rare.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

You can expect to see everything from boho hippie style to decked out Instagram influencers.

If you need a visual, head here for some Tulum outfit inspo — or just think flowy sundresses, cute sandals, a sunhat and sunglasses.

Tulum is hot, so don’t forget your Water-To-Go refillable water bottle. This not only keeps you hydrated, but filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico. 🤑 Use code SOLO15 for 15% OFF your purchase.

You’ll also need one of these best sunscreens for Mexico, some Frizz Ease for your hair, and anti-hangover pills if you plan to party hardy.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

⚠️ Note: In Mexico, you need to agree on the price before entering the taxi, as there aren’t meters, and you’ll need to have pesos to pay the driver. Some drivers will be open to price negotiations, and some won’t.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Of course, you’ll want to double check for any warnings before you visit, as the waves can get high from time to time.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

While the majority of travelers simply visit and have a nice time, always be aware that no place on Earth is 100% safe.

You have to make safety a priority by staying aware of yourself, your belongings and your surroundings at all times.

While not everyone would rank Tulum among the safest places to travel in Mexico, plenty of statistics show that millions visit each year — and by comparison, the number of incidents of petty crime and violent crime is low.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Believe it or not, Tulum used to be a sleepy town. In the last decade or so, it’s become one of the top Mexico vacation destinations.

Best Things to Do in Tulum with kids

Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Tulum With Kids

Looking for the ultimate family vacation? Then Tulum with kids is the perfect idea.

Whether you’re looking for a rooftop bar to watch the sunset, visit some of Tulum’s gorgeous beaches, snorkel with turtles, or just have an amazing family vacation, there are plenty of things to do in Tulum with kids.

Even if it’s something as simple as going to Tulum supermarket with your family to cook some delicious food, you’ll never be bored.

(In fact, I would recommend taking a trip to a supermarket Tulum to make some delicious Mexican food).

Which of these things to do in Tulum with kids make it onto your bucket list?