The Mayan Riviera is one of Mexico's leading beach destinations for travelers. More visitors to this area are making Tulum their prime destination because of its incredible beaches, coral reefs and wildlife. Tulum is the perfect destination for travelers who want a luxury beach vacation in a history rich, pristine natural environment.
Tulum was once visited most frequently by budget travelers and backpackers. Recently, the Mayan Riviera has caught the eye of developers and Tulum has seen a surge of development since 2005. Now visitors will find luxury hotels, golf courses, time shares and private developments from Cancun all the way down to Tulum.
Getting To Tulum from the Cancun Airport
Tulum is located 3 hours south of Cancun, at the end of the Mayan Riviera. Cars can be rented at the airport, or there are numerous charter shuttles that will take you to Tulum. Drivers will find a brand new four lane highway stretching from Cancun down to Chetumal, making driving pleasant and relaxed. Signs are well marked, and there are plenty of amenities, hotels, and cenotes (natural pools for swimming, snorkeling, and diving).
For those who prefer not to drive, shuttle buses are available directlty at the airport. Buses leave from the main bus terminal in downtown Cancun on a regular basis. Taxi's will also drive you direct from the airport.
Tulums Mayan Ruins on the Beach
Tulum's history began as early as 564 A.D., the earliest date found on a Maya stele at the site. Archaeologists say the most active period for Tulum was from 1200 – 1521 A.D., placing it in the Mayan Post Classic Period.
Tulum is a walled city, one of the few every built by the ancient Mayans. Tulum is the third most visited ancient site in Mexico, next to Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza.
Today beach vacationers arrive in Tulum to explore the best preserved Mayan coastal city and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Caribbean ocean from its lofty temples. The picturesque ruins also have their own private beach, so visitors can refresh themselves in the tranquil blue waters of the Caribbean after-wards.
Sacred Fresh Water Cenotes of the Maya
The Tulum area is dotted with dozens of cenotes, fresh water pools that are out flows of the vast limestone aquifer that lies beneath the Yucatan. Many of the cenotes around Tulum can be reached by car and are easily accessible to visitors. Tours can be arranged with one of the many tour operators in Tulum.
Cenotes were considered sacred by the ancient Maya, and today's visitor can definitely appreciate why. These crystal clear freshwater pools are located either at ground level or are entered through a cavern. They are filled with water that has been filtered through layers of limestone, making their waters some of the purist on earth. Cenotes are excellent for diving and snorkeling. Their cool, sweet waters are incredibly refreshing after a long day at the beach.
Tulum's Resorts, Hotels and Amenities
Accommodations can be found either on the beach, or in the town. The town of Tulum is located on the coastal highway, and consists of hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations. Two miles east of town is the beach, a lovely 5 mile stretch that is dotted with cabanas, boutique hotels, and resorts that stretches from the Tulum ruins in the north to the border of the Sian Kaan nature reserve to the south.
The all-inclusive resort Dreams Tulum is a recent addition to Tulum, and is a world class all inclusive resort and spa on the beach that has a spectacular view of the Tulum ruins. Dreams Tulum is raising the bar on Tulum beach vacations.
There are many boutique hotels along the beach of Tulum offering full services to travelers. International restaurants, Mayan spas and chic bars welcome travelers year round. Private house rentals, condominiums and timeshares are available as for long term stays.
A Beach Vacation with Sea Turtles
Sea turtles have been visiting the beaches of Tulum for thousands of years. Visitors today can witness hundreds of these gentle giants lumbering ashore to lay their eggs during the summer months. A sea turtle research center is located in Akumal, 14 miles north of Tulum. During breeding season, visitors can go with a guide at night to watch the turtles lay their eggs on the beach.
Besides the turtles, Tulum has a large migratory bird population. Nature lovers will marvel at the incredible biodiversity in the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, located just south of Tulum. This area is only accessible by non-motorized vehicles and is best experienced with a guide. This is a pristine reserve where you will encounter rare bird species and other wildlife in its natural environment.
Andrea Julian - As a child I was always fascinated with ancient worlds and far away lands. After completing a Bachelors Degree in Biology at Texas State ...
