This entry is from our Expert Guest series where wedding and honeymoon professionals share their best tips on creating memories that last a lifetime. We want to thank our friends at Hilton and the author Alesandra Dubin for sharing this great content.
Tulum is that rare destination that has it all: jaw-dropping natural beauty, a rich cultural history and a dynamic arts and restaurant scene. It offers every opportunity to indulge in relaxation or soak up the social scene, making it a note-worthy honeymoon destination.
This breathtaking destination will have you wishing you booked a longer honeymoon. You may have seen quite a lot of Tulum on your social feeds. It’s said to potentially be one of the most Instagrammed spots in Mexico! This popular destination brims with history, culture and natural wonders.
Here’s how to make memories in Tulum, Mexico:
- Go barefoot: Tulum beaches are as tranquil or lively as you want them to be, by day or night
- Chase new experiences: Ancient ruins and glittering cenotes offer thrilling opportunities to explore and discover
- Refresh and revitalize: The Tulum hospitality options indulge your every whim, from eco-friendly retreats to lavish all-inclusive resort
Why Visit Tulum?
For most couples, it’s all about Tulum’s beaches and natural beauty. The coast is stunning by day and night alike, with white sand, turquoise waters and beach clubs that up the ante for amenities and luxury. The area’s diverse flora and fauna — almost as if Mother Nature is wearing a light, airy Instagram filter — are further on display at natural reserves built for exploration. The Sian Ka’an Biosphere is the crown jewel of Tulum’s biodiversity. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka’an Biosphere is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean, and you won’t want to skip a tour of its natural splendor.
Then there’s the cenotes — natural sinkholes developed from collapsed limestone under the Yucatán Peninsula. Tulum’s cenotes distinguish the region from anywhere else in the world; some are complex underground cave systems while others are open-air swimming holes. Tulum’s Gran Cenote is one of the most well-known, a romantic hot spot for swimming, diving and snorkeling.
Mayan ruins blanket the Yucatán Peninsula, too, but Tulum’s very own ruins have a special characteristic: They’re the only ones built over the beach (and are one of the Maya’s few walled settlements). The Muyil and Coba ruins are some of the most popular with visitors. One of the best-preserved coastal Mayan sites that remain is the Coba ruins. It’s believed this spot might’ve been called Zama (Dawn) — a reference to its position facing east —some 700 years ago, which is fitting for such a beautiful spot.
Zooming back to today, the dining and drinking options couldn’t be more modern: Tulum’s bar and restaurant scene is vibrant and bustling, offering everything from tiny taquerias to posh world-class dining. Tulum’s also an art appreciator’s paradise, brimming with galleries and shops selling unique pieces crafted by talented local artisans. Street arts and murals enliven a walk (or bike ride) around town — and make for colorful photos to bring home.
And last but not least, relaxation and restoration are built into the city’s fabric.
Tulum’s Culture And Customs
Honeymooners will find it easy to navigate through Tulum thanks to a friendly culture, a melting pot of visitors and a thriving hospitality infrastructure.
Language in Tulum
You may want to learn a little bit of Spanish when you’re traveling to Tulum for your honeymoon. Many people speak English, but it will be fun to say “please” and “thank you” in Spanish throughout your trip.
Currency
While credit cards and the U.S. dollar are widely accepted, it’s great to have some Mexican pesos on hand to use for smaller shops and daily expenses.
LGBTQ+ Community
Tulum is a popular LGBTQ+ destination! Quintana Roo, where Tulum is located, legalized same-sex marriage in 2012 and is a proud supporter of its LGBTQ+ community.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Tulum?
The weather is ideal in Tulum from December through April. But that’s also when you’ll find the most congestion — crowds spike highest around the holiday season as well as during spring break.
By contrast, May and June and September through November (including Día de los Muertos) are shoulder seasons, with fewer travelers competing for attractions, and discounted hotel room rates ready for the booking. Note: September and October are also the wettest months, so pack an umbrella.
May through September are the warmest months, so pack expecting heat for your summertime visit. It’s not the only kind of heat that takes over the city: Expect a party atmosphere around July and August, when Tulum is bustling with a spirited social scene and a jam-packed nightlife calendar.
Getting To And Around Tulum
Fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN), about 75 miles north of Tulum. From there, rent a car to drive into town, hire a taxi or car service or take the ADO bus line. It’s about a two-hour journey.
In town, the best ways to get around are by taxi, on foot, or by bike — you’ll see a lot of visitors on bikes and Ola Bike Tulum is one of the most popular rental companies. Many lodgings in town provide loaner bikes for guests, too. If you’re open to travel on two wheels, it’s the fun, memorable and sustainable way to go.
Additional Tulum Travel Information
Passport and Visa Requirements
You’ll need a valid passport to visit Tulum. Your passport must be valid for six months from the date you leave Tulum to return home. If you’re staying for less than 90 days, you don’t need a visa.
Vaccinations
The Mexican government doesn’t require any particular vaccines to visit Tulum, however it’s always a good idea to be up to date on standard US vaccines and consult your doctor before traveling.
Where To Stay
After hours spent exploring Tulum’s natural beauty and historical architecture, a little rest and relaxation at your hotel is key. These four resorts have everything you need to recuperate from a day of sightseeing, as well as plenty of activities and entertainment for that second wind.
Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort: This all-inclusive, eco-friendly property offers sweeping views of white sand beaches and sparkling seas from its secluded position on a tranquil bay. On site are nine pools and a luxury spa. The 13 restaurants and bars offer diverse cuisine from Japanese to traditional Italian, plus local Mexican flavors. Upgrade to their Enclave rooms for an elevated experience that’s even more extraordinary. Guests who book an Enclave room open the door to even more possibilities during their stay including private check-in and checkout, the Enclave Lounge with food and beverage, private pool areas, in-room welcome amenities and more. Learn more about this resort here.
Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya: This breath-taking property has been Voted #1 Best Resort in Mexico by Condé Nast Traveler in their Reader’s Choice Awards. Among the mangroves of the magical Riviera Maya, ancient roots and a future-focused commitment to sustainability blend in this perfect honeymoon resort. On site are five pools, a fitness center, and a luxury spa you’ll never forget. The 11 restaurants and bars offer diverse cuisine to keep your tastebuds begging for more. Learn more about this resort here.
Honeymoon Registry with Honeyfund
Register for flights, transportation, swimming in cenotes or a day-pass to explore Mayan ruins during your Tulum honeymoon itinerary. It’s easy to do with a Honeyfund starter registry for Tulum. Be sure to share it with your family and friends so they can contribute to your romantic trip in a meaningful way and you’ll have an amazing trip and vacation memories to last a lifetime.
