Where is Tulum Located? (And How Do I Get There in 2024?)

WONDERING WHERE IS TULUM IN MEXICO?

You’re in the right place, as this article covers everything you need to know to answer the question Where is Tulum Mexico located? It also has everything you need to know about traveling to Tulum.

As I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018, I’ve been to Tulum many times. It’s actually one of my favorite places to visit in Mexico when I’m looking to relax from the hustle and bustle of city life.

But enough about me; I’m here to help you — and I know you’re wondering things like Where is Tulum near?, Where is Tulum located on a map? and How can you get to Tulum Mexico?

Well, this article uncovers all that, and more. Ready to learn more so you can finally cross Tulum off your bucket list?! Let’s dive in!

The state of Quintana Roo Mexico is known for its stunning Caribbean coastline and world-famous destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres, Isla Holbox and Bacalar Lagoon.

Celebrated for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and clear turquoise waters, Quintana Roo state is a prime location for snorkeling and scuba diving, particularly along the Great Mesoamerican Reef. 

The state is also home to significant Mayan culture and archaeological sites, including Tulum Ruins and Coba Ruins, which offer a glimpse into ancient Mayan civilization.

Quintana Roo also has unique natural attractions like cenotes (natural sinkholes with fresh water), the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and Cozumel Island, known for its diving spots and marine life.

Tulum’s rich Mayan culture, lively nightlife, and luxury resorts and hotels attract millions of tourists yearly — making tourism a key pillar of the town’s economy.

If you’re a visual person (like me), you probably need a map to answer Where is Tulum Quintana Roo Mexico located? question — so check out the Tulum map below for that.

📍 MAP OF TULUM

Wondering, How far is Tulum from Cancun? Tulum is about 1.5 hours south of Cancún by car. It is about three hours northeast of Chetumal, which is the capital of Quintana Roo State.

On a map, Mexico Tulum is found just south of the Riviera Maya, a popular tourist region stretching along the Caribbean coastline. It is immediately north of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. 

How to Get to Tulum Mexico

Now that you know where Tulum is, you’re probably wondering how you get to Tulum. There are many ways to get to Tulum, depending on where you come from.

In year’s past, the most common route to Tulum began with a flight to Cancun International Airport. You’d then make your way from Cancun to Tulum by shuttle, the ADO bus, or rental car.

The Cancun Airport (code: CUN) is well-connected to major cities in the US, Canada, Europe, and South America, and has a lot of direct flights daily.

However, there is now a Tulum Airport located in the town itself — and you’ll find info about that below. If you want to know how to get around in Tulum, check out the linked article.

Cancun Airport to Tulum

Cancun International Airport, or CUN Airport, is another option for travelers heading to Tulum. The airport is about 73 miles (118 km) north of Tulum.

Cancun Airport serves a wide range of airlines that connect this tourist hotspot to cities across the globe and within Mexico, facilitating easy access for travelers from all corners of the world.

When you arrive in Cancun, you’ll have several options for making your way to Tulum, and they’re all listed below.

🚘 RENTAL CAR 

The journey can be made via a private rental car, which allows you to explore the scenic route at your own pace.

Rental agencies are readily available at the airport, providing a range of vehicles to suit different budgets and preferences.

The great part of a rental car is that it will not only get you to Tulum, but once you arrive, you’ll be able to visit some of the popular attractions in the area easily.

A car makes sightseeing enjoyable and easy. Of all the times I’ve rented a car in Mexico, I always use and recommend renting your car in Cancun to Tulum through Discover Cars. 

🚌 ADO BUSES

The ADO bus service is a reliable and cost-effective choice for travelers looking for a more economical mode of transport. 

💡 Tulum Travel Guide Tips: Though there’s the ADO website, it’s much easier to book ADO tickets via the BusBud site, which is in English and takes U.S. credit cards.

ADO buses run regularly from Cancun Airport to Tulum, offering a comfortable, air-conditioned ride. Getting to Tulum from Cancun by ADO bus will take about 2 to 2.5 hours.

This service is well-regarded for its punctuality and safety, making it a popular option among tourists and locals. 

If you’re still wondering Where is Tulum from Cancun? Tulum is approximately 81 miles (131 km) south of Cancun.

It is also one of the most-visited and best Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns). In short, Tulum means different things to different travelers.

Let’s dive deeper into what Tulum is known for today, so you understand why visitors flock to this.

Tulum Meaning

In the Yucatec Maya language, the word Tulum means “wall.” However, the city’s original Mayan name was Zama, which means “dawn,” as the wall faces the sunrise in the east.

This name Tulum (Wall) is fitting, given its most iconic feature — the well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city surrounded by massive walls that once stood 16-feet-high (5 m).

Tulum’s History

The Tulum Ruins are important, and offer a unique insight into the ancient Mayan civilization.

As one of the last cities inhabited and built by the Mayans, they served as a major hub for transporting goods to the nearby city of Coba (now the site of the Ruins of Coba).

Situated on the cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Ruins of Tulum include the iconic El Castillo (The Castle), the Temple of Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God.

This temple has a unique carved figure that’s shown descending headfirst. Known as the Descending God, this deity represents the setting sun and the underworld in Mayan mythology.

Other significant Mayan sites in and around Tulum include Coba Ruins, Ek-Balam Ruins, and Muyil Ruins, which is part of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. 

Tulum’s Nature

💧 Tulum cenotes

Tulum is also known for its breathtaking natural wonders, which attract visitors from all over the world.

Among the most celebrated are the cenotes, natural limestone sinkholes filled with fresh, clear water. They offer stunning natural landscapes, and are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Located near Downtown Tulum, don’t miss El Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera, Cenote Zacil Ha and Cenote Atik. Located near Tulum, there’s also Cenote Azul and Cenote Dos Ojos.

💧 Sian Ka’an UNESCO Biosphere REserve

Tulum‘s Culture

In addition to its natural and historical sites, Tulum is known for its wellness and yoga retreats, catering to those seeking holistic health and relaxation.

The town’s culinary scene is also amazing, with a range of dining options from fresh seafood to authentic Thai cuisine, reflecting its cosmopolitan vibe.

While not as bustling as larger cities, Tulum’s nightlife also offers quality bars and restaurants, contributing to its reputation as a relaxing yet engaging destination​​​​.

Where to Stay in Tulum Mexico

Tulum offers a variety of zones for visitors, each with a unique charm. They cater to different preferences, from beachfront luxury to an ecotourism adventure or a more local experience.

Wondering about the best places to stay in Tulum? There are three main areas within the best Tulum neighborhoods, which I’ll detail below for you.

Tulum Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera)

The Hotel Zone is the stretch that put Tulum on the tourism map. It extends from the main archaeological zone at the Tulum Ruins, to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

It’s known for a diverse range of accommodations, including international hotel brands, eco-lodges, treehouse hotels, glamping domes, and beachfront bungalows.

This area caters to both mid-range travelers and those seeking luxury, with a variety of dining and entertainment options that reflect its broad appeal.

The rustic-yet-chic Tulum beachfront shacks in this zone are particularly recommended for their charm and luxury​.

🏩 WHERE TO STAY WHEN TRAVELING TO TULUM

Looking for more info on Tulum Mexico accommodations? Check out these additional Tulum accommodation guides to help you find the perfect place to stay:

Where is Tulum Mexico

Tulum Town or Tulum Pueblo (Downtown Tulum)

For anyone seeking more affordable options, Tulum Town offers a lively atmosphere with a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Within downtown, my favorite area is called Aldea Zama, but La Valeta Tulum is another good option.

Accommodations here tend to be more budget-friendly, ranging from hostels to modest hotels. 

Downtown is known for its authentic food and nightlife, offering a more local experience. It’s also conveniently located, making it easy to explore Tulum’s natural wonders and historical sites.

Where is Tulum Mexico

Tulum Beach Zone (Tulum Playa)

Tulum Playa, known for its gorgeous beaches and clear waters, is a premier destination for those looking to stay right on the sand.

This area is home to a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to boutique hotels, offering something for every traveler. 

However, it’s worth noting that staying directly on the beach tends to come with a higher price tag.

The Hotel Zone, located just north of Tulum Playa, is part of this exclusive experience, blending eco-friendly lodges with upscale amenities​​.

🏩 Best Tulum Beachfront Hotels

Top 10 Things to Do in Tulum Mexico

1. Explore the 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 by scooter, bicycle, on foot, by taxi or rental car, and it takes 10-15 minutes to drive there in normal traffic from downtown.

2. 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.

🏖️ Playa Paraiso Amenities

There are several Tulum Beach clubs here where visitors can rent beach chairs, sunbeds and umbrellas, sip a cold beer, cocktail or mocktail, and enjoy the upbeat atmosphere.

There are lifeguards on duty from approx. November to March, during the Tulum busy season months, as well as limited parking if you’re getting a rental car in Tulum.

If you want to relax and unwind away from the crowds but still within the main area of Tulum — this is the place for you.

The beach itself here is small, but has a nice rocky cove at one end, which makes for a great photo op. When I did my Tulum photoshoot, we actually went here!

🏖️ 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.

Like 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 (like the one in the photo).

The beach amenities here include restaurants, bars, public restrooms and showers, limited public parking, and kiosks selling excursions like snorkeling tours, bike tours, boat tours, and more.

4. Explore Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve & Muyil Ruins

🐬 Sian Kaan Tulum nature Reserve

Sian Ka’an, meaning “origin of the sky” in Maya, 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 is this Sian Ka’an Full Day Tour for Adventure Seekers.

🛕 Muyil Mayan Ruins in Tulum

Want to check out some of the Tulum Mayan Ruins during your visit?

The Muyil Archaeological Site in Sian Ka’an (AKA Muyil Ruins) is one of the longest-inhabited ancient Mayan sites on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Occupied between 350 BC to 1500 AD, it was a major maritime trading port. Today, it has three main structural groups you can check out, including a 57-foot-tall pyramid (17 m).

For a personalized experience that includes a hike, a boat trip through the reserve, and a visit to the archaeological site of Muyil — book this Private Tour of Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve.

6. Swim in the Tulum Cenotes

💧 Cenote Calavera

Cenote Calavera translates to “Skull Cenote” because it has three openings for you to enter in — one is large (pictured above) and two are small.

When viewing these three holes from above, you’ll see that the Calavera Cenote resembles a human skull, with the two small openings mimicking the eyes.

It is one of the most Instagrammable cenotes in Tulum — yet also one of its smaller cenotes, and one of the most popular cenotes in Tulum Mexico.

If you want to visit without the crowds, head there early! For more info, check out this Ultimate Guide to Cenote Calavera Tulum.

💧 El Gran Cenote (Grand Cenote)

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

However, unlike the Calavera Cenote, this place is very big (as the name says), and boasts a series of cenotes connected by wooden walkways through the jungle.

It is also one of the prettiest cenotes in Tulum, and very popular for photos and YouTube videos.

If you’re looking for one of the best #tulum cenotes to get some social media love on your feed, don’t skip Gran Cenote Tulum.

💧 Cenote Atik

One of the more off the beaten path Tulum cenotes, Cenote Atik is a hidden gem — but it won’t stay hidden for long.

Located on the same road as Cenote Calavera and Gran Cenote, you’ll want to add Cenote Atik to your Tulum itinerary.

💧 Cenote Zacil-Ha

Traveling to Tulum with kids? Zacil-Ha Tulum Cenote is one of the most family-friendly cenotes in Tulum.

There’s onsite restaurants, plenty of lounge chairs and hammocks to relax in, a regular swimming pool, and even cabins you can stay the night in at Zacil-Ha Cenote.

💧 Cenote Corazon

Meaning “Heart Cenote,” Corazon Cenote Tulum is actually shaped like a heart when viewed from above.

It is a great place to lounge on the wooden decks surrounding the cenote, has amazing snorkeling, and there’s a jump platform if you want to dive in.

⭐️ BONUS: Best Cenotes Near Tulum

When anyone asks me for tips on what to do in Tulum for a day, I’ll always recommend cenote hopping because there are just 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.

7. Lounge 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 do that as well. You can visit on your own, 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 also Kaan Luum Lagoon.

🏄‍♀️ Go Paddleboarding at Kaan Luum Lagoon

For sporty and adventurous travelers, you can also go do some Kaan Luum paddleboarding.

You can rent a SUP paddle board and life jacket when you arrive, and then enjoy a day on the water at one of the best places to paddleboard in Tulum.

8. Relax at the Tulum Beach Clubs

Located in the Mexican Caribbean, Tulum is known for its stunning beaches and lively party scene.

It should be no surprise that Tulum also has some of the best beach clubs that combine both of those things!

Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for two, a place to party the night away, or a luxurious beach bed on one of the best beaches of Tulum, there’s a perfect Tulum beach club for everyone. 

For the best beach clubs Tulum Mexico has, I recommend you check out the places listed below.

Since there are so many beach club options, I categorized them so you can choose the vibe that appeals to you.

9. Take a Cooking Class in Tulum

Want to learn to cook Mexican food on your Tulum vacation? Smart choice!

While most think Mexican food is simply tacos and burritos, that’s actually not the local food of Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula.

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.

10. Go Diving in Tulum Cenotes

One of the most bucket list things to do Tulum offers, you won’t want to miss these cenote dives.

⚠️ Note: To do any Tulum cenote dives, you need to be dive certified — but if you’re not (yet), there’s info below on getting your diving certification in Tulum.

As the name says, cenote dives mean you’ll go diving in famous Tulum cenotes like Cenote Corazon, Cenote El Pit, Cenote Angelita, Casa Cenote and Cenote Pet Cemetery (AKA Cenote Sac Actun).

One of the top-rated dive tours, this 2 Cenote Dive from Tulum for Small Groups is an all inclusive where you get to just show up, and enjoy!

On it, you’ll join professional guides for two 40-minute dives. One will be at Casa Cenote (AKA Cenote Manatí), and the other at Cenote Dos Ojos.

🤿 Tulum Dive Certification Courses

In order to go cave diving in Tulum cenotes, you do need to be certified. The good news is you can get your PADI diving certification in Tulum.

While you won’t be learning to dive in the cenotes, you’ll be able to go after you complete the certification.

While Cancun Airport is the more established and offers a wide range of international and domestic flights, Tulum’s airport provides closer access to the town and its attractions.

It is the closest airport to Tulum, and offers both domestic and international flights, connecting the region with major cities throughout Mexico, the United States, and beyond.

From Cancun International Airport to Tulum, the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by rental car or shuttle. The ADO bus to Tulum can take 2 to 2.5 hours.

This stunning stretch of sand is part of the larger Riviera Maya coastline. It is known for clear waters and scenic beauty, and is home to many of the best things to do in Tulum Mexico.

From the ancient Mayan ruins sitting above the beach to the crystal-clear cenotes and lush jungle, Tulum offers a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers.

However, as with any travel destination, it’s wise to stay informed about current conditions, exercise common sense, and take standard safety precautions to ensure a pleasant and safe trip.

If you’re visiting Tulum on your own, check out this Tulum Solo Travel Guide for tips specific to solo travel in Mexico.

Final Thoughts: Where is Tulum Mexico Located

Tulum stands as a gem along the Mexican Costa Maya (Mayan Coast). It offers a blend of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and a cultural scene.

For those who want to go on a Tulum travel adventure, understanding precisely where’s Tulum is key to unlocking the treasures of this unique destination. 

Located about 1.5 hours south of Cancun by car, the location of Tulum Mexico makes it an accessible escape into a world where history and modernity blend seamlessly.

Whether you’re traveling from Los Angeles to Tulum Mexico, or coming from closer locales, Tulum invites travelers to step back in time, immerse in the rich Mexican heritage, and explore incredible places that seem untouched by time.