Tulum, Mexico: A Family Vacation That Will Knock Your Flip Flops Off
Hey there, adventure-seeking families! If you want the perfect vacation destination for family fun in the sun, look no further than Tulum, Mexico. There are spectacular beaches, historic ruins, delicious food, and much to do; you will never be bored.
The beaches in Tulum make beaches in other parts of the world jealous. Indeed, they are some of the most stunning beaches in Mexico and around the globe: white sand beaches and crystal clear water.
Some of the best beaches are:
1. Playa Paraiso
2. Playa Ruinas (near the Mayan ruins)
3. Las Palmas Public Beach
4. Playa Pescadores
5. Secret Beach (near Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve)
6. Playa Santa Fe
7. Playa Akumal (great for turtle watching)
8. South Tulum Beach
9. Ziggy Beach
10. Playa Xcacel
Image Credit: Deposit Photos.
I don’t think there is a bad beach in the area, but some are more crowded and tourist-friendly, while others are more secluded. Playa Paraiso and Playa Ruinas are probably the most famous but don’t overlook the less crowded options if you want a more relaxed vibe.
Remember that beach conditions can change, so it’s always a good idea to check recent reviews or ask locals for current recommendations when you’re there. Locals may even guide you to their favorite beach.
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
Now, here’s where Tulum really sets itself apart.
Nowadays, Tulum is one of the most popular vacation spots in the Yucatan, known for its gorgeous beaches and luxury resorts. But did you know that 500 years ago, it was a bustling Mayan Metropolis?
Tulum was initially called Zama by the Mayan people and was a significant port city in pre-Colombian Mexico.
“Zama” means “morning” or “dawn” in Mayan. Today, you’ll see the ancient name honored by lots of different places and businesses having “Zama’ in their name, most notably the Aldea Zama region, a residential neighborhood in Tulum.
Although the Mayan city of Zama no longer exists, its ruins can still be seen at the Tulum Ruins archeological site in modern-day Tulum.
I recommend hiring a local guide to get the most out of your experience at the ruins. The Tulum Ruins are one of the most famous Mayan Ruins in Mexico and make a great educational activity for your family!
Muyil (also known as Chunyaxche) was one of the earliest and longest inhabited ancient Maya sites on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
Tulum is lucky to be one of the few places in the world with natural cenotes.
Cenotes are like natural swimming pools underground. It often looks like a swimming pool inside a cave.
There are many cenotes in Tulum and the surrounding area. They formed long ago when the roofs of underground caves collapsed, leaving holes that filled with rainwater and underground rivers.
The most popular cenotes include:
Gran Cenote – an open cenote that has crystal clear water and is popular with locals and tourists.
Cenote Ak Tun Ha – This cenote is also called the “carwash cenote” because it was used to wash cars 70 years ago! It’s another open-air cenote. It’s great for diving and swimming.
Casa Cenote — This open-air cenote is a little bit out of town, but it is worth the trip. It is surrounded by the jungle and is great for families as it is very shallow.
Many other cenotes are in the area, but these are the most popular with families visiting Tulum.
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
Tulum has a number of awesome ec0parks that combine nature with family fun. They are a great way to explore the area and have fun while tricking your kids into learning something!
There are many options for eco-parks, as there are over a dozen in the area of Tulum. They each focus on different things, but you can find a lot of similar experiences.
zip lining
snorkeling
kayaking
swimming with dolphins
lazy rivers
lots of local wildlife
You can’t go wrong with any of the eco-parks, but look through what each has to offer to determine what your family is interested in.
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
Swimming with the turtles in Akumal is one of the most unique activities for families in Yucatan!
Akumal Beach is a haven for wild sea turtles, who flock to graze on the seaweed that grows naturally on the ocean floor at Akumal Beach.
Tourists float 2-3 meters above where the sea turtles are grazing and watch them in their natural habitat while snorkeling.
Regardless of their swimming abilities, everyone must wear a life vest at Akumal Beach so they don’t swim down and disturb the wildlife. This makes it the perfect activity for little kids who might not be the most confident swimmers!
Sea turtles aren’t the only thing you can spot while snorkeling at Akumal Beach – there’s also an old, rusted cannon blaster from a Spanish ship that sunk off the coast of Akumal in the 1700s.
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
If you want to sneak a little education into your vacation (don’t worry, the kids won’t even notice), book at this premiere of Tulum’s eco-friendly hotels. Places like Nômade Tulum aren’t just about providing a place to sleep – they’re about creating experiences that connect you with nature and teach you about taking care of our planet. Plus, they are set in a gorgeous location right near the beach, making your stay educational and beautiful.
In July and August, Nômade Tulum hosts The Creative Family, which has amazing activities to help your family spend time together, such as painting, tie-dying, movie night, and stargazing. Plus, you and your kids will learn about the world around you and how to take care of it.
Image Credit: Nômade Tulum.
While the central city of Tulum is impressive, don’t be afraid to venture further out. That is where you always find some fantastic things that aren’t in guidebooks. There are some incredible lesser-known cenotes and beaches that’ll make you feel like you’ve discovered your own private paradise. Ask the locals for recommendations – they know all the best spots that locals go to and are generally happy to share.
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
Tulum is a fabulous, family-friendly spot. It is a magical place where ancient history meets natural beauty, adventure lurks around every corner, and family memories are just waiting to be made. If you want to spend time making memories with your family during vacation, this is the place for you!
Image Credit: Depositphotos
Beaches That Rival Any In the World
The beaches in Tulum make beaches in other parts of the world jealous. Indeed, they are some of the most stunning beaches in Mexico and around the globe: white sand beaches and crystal clear water.
Some of the best beaches are:
1. Playa Paraiso
2. Playa Ruinas (near the Mayan ruins)
3. Las Palmas Public Beach
4. Playa Pescadores
5. Secret Beach (near Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve)
6. Playa Santa Fe
7. Playa Akumal (great for turtle watching)
8. South Tulum Beach
9. Ziggy Beach
10. Playa Xcacel
Which Beach Should You Visit?
I don’t think there is a bad beach in the area, but some are more crowded and tourist-friendly, while others are more secluded. Playa Paraiso and Playa Ruinas are probably the most famous but don’t overlook the less crowded options if you want a more relaxed vibe.
Remember that beach conditions can change, so it’s always a good idea to check recent reviews or ask locals for current recommendations when you’re there. Locals may even guide you to their favorite beach.
Check out the Mayan Ruins
Now, here’s where Tulum really sets itself apart.
Swim in a Cenote
Tulum is lucky to be one of the few places in the world with natural cenotes.
Cenotes are like natural swimming pools underground. It often looks like a swimming pool inside a cave.
There are many cenotes in Tulum and the surrounding area. They formed long ago when the roofs of underground caves collapsed, leaving holes that filled with rainwater and underground rivers.
The most popular cenotes include:
Gran Cenote – an open cenote that has crystal clear water and is popular with locals and tourists.
Cenote Ak Tun Ha – This cenote is also called the “carwash cenote” because it was used to wash cars 70 years ago! It’s another open-air cenote. It’s great for diving and swimming.
Casa Cenote — This open-air cenote is a little bit out of town, but it is worth the trip. It is surrounded by the jungle and is great for families as it is very shallow.
Many other cenotes are in the area, but these are the most popular with families visiting Tulum.
Some Cool Things About Cenotes
Cenotes are one of the coolest things to do in Tulum, but they are very different from the beach. Here are some awesome things about cenotes.
- The water is usually very clear and cool, which makes it great for swimming and cooling off from the Tulum sun.
- Many have fascinating rock formations inside, like stalactites hanging from the ceiling.
- Some cenotes are open, while others are in caves. You will quickly figure out what you prefer.
- Many cenotes are very clear and great for diving, but if you can’t see the bottom, please don’t dive in.
- Depending on the time of day, the popular cenotes can get crowded. If you want the place to yourself, get up early and head to the cenote in the morning.
- If you aren’t a good swimmer, please rent a life jacket at your cenote. Most are included in the price of admission.
Cenotes are like nature’s swimming pools, and they’re a big reason why many people visit Tulum!
Eco-Parks: Where Nature Is Fun
Tulum has a number of awesome ec0parks that combine nature with family fun. They are a great way to explore the area and have fun while tricking your kids into learning something!
There are many options for eco-parks, as there are over a dozen in the area of Tulum. They each focus on different things, but you can find a lot of similar experiences.
- zip lining
- snorkeling
- kayaking
- swimming with dolphins
- lazy rivers
- lots of local wildlife
You can’t go wrong with any of the eco-parks, but look through what each has to offer to determine what your family is interested in.
Swim With Turtles at Akumal Beach
Eco-Friendly Stays That Teach and Inspire
If you want to sneak a little education into your vacation (don’t worry, the kids won’t even notice), book at this premiere of Tulum’s eco-friendly hotels. Places like Nômade Tulum aren’t just about providing a place to sleep – they’re about creating experiences that connect you with nature and teach you about taking care of our planet. Plus, they are set in a gorgeous location right near the beach, making your stay educational and beautiful.
In July and August, Nômade Tulum hosts The Creative Family, which has amazing activities to help your family spend time together, such as painting, tie-dying, movie night, and stargazing. Plus, you and your kids will learn about the world around you and how to take care of it.
Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path
While the central city of Tulum is impressive, don’t be afraid to venture further out. That is where you always find some fantastic things that aren’t in guidebooks. There are some incredible lesser-known cenotes and beaches that’ll make you feel like you’ve discovered your own private paradise. Ask the locals for recommendations – they know all the best spots that locals go to and are generally happy to share.
Why Tulum Will Steal Your Heart
Tulum is a fabulous, family-friendly spot. It is a magical place where ancient history meets natural beauty, adventure lurks around every corner, and family memories are just waiting to be made. If you want to spend time making memories with your family during vacation, this is the place for you!
Alicia Richards
Alicia Richards is the founder ofTravels With The Crew. This family travel site contains itineraries, tips for traveling with kids, and travel inspiration. Alicia helps busy moms plan vacations that the entire family will love.
