If you live in America or Canada, Mexico is a destination you probably already visited or is top on your list. Who wouldn't want to visit a place known for tacos, sinkhole pools and a chance for a spice of fun in your life. Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is a go-to area for visitors, and Tulum and Playa del Carmen are two of the most popular destinations on the peninsula. From ancient ruins to lively nightlife, there are so many things to do in this beautiful region.

In this blog post, I will share the top 10 things to do in Tulum and Playa del Carmen that will make your trip unforgettable. I will provide valuable information for each activity, including how much it costs and how to get there.

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Transportation

Best ways to get around in Mexico, especially around Tulum and Playa del Carmen, is by renting a car. Alternatively, there are also plenty of taxis and collectivos (shared vans) available for short distances.

Hotel Stay

Cheap: Selina Tulum (Tulum)

Selina Tulum is a great budget option for travelers looking for a fun and social atmosphere. The hostel offers shared dorms, private rooms, and even treehouses, as well as a pool, bar, and restaurant. Prices for dorm beds start at around $10 USD per night, while private rooms start at around $40 USD per night.

Mid-Range: Hotel Xcaret Mexico (Playa del Carmen)

Hotel Xcaret Mexico is a beautiful resort located in the heart of the Riviera Maya. The resort offers all-inclusive packages that include access to the Xcaret eco-park, as well as a range of activities, restaurants, and bars on site. Prices for a standard room start at around $250 USD per night.

Expensive: Fairmont Mayakoba (Playa del Carmen)

The Fairmont Mayakoba is a luxurious resort situated on the beautiful Caribbean coast. The resort features stunning rooms and suites, a world-class spa, several restaurants, and a private beach. Prices for a standard room start at around $400 USD per night, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a lavish experience.

1. Visit the Mayan Ruins

No trip to Tulum or Playa del Carmen is complete without a visit to the Mayan ruins. These ancient sites are scattered throughout the region, and some of the most famous ones are in Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba. Each of these sites has its own fascinating history and architecture, so you'll want to make sure to visit at least one of them during your trip.

• Chichen Itza: Entrance fee is MXN 481 (approx. $24 USD) per person. It's located about 2.5 hours from Tulum and 1.5 hours from Playa del Carmen by car or bus.

• Tulum: Entrance fee is MXN 80 (approx. $4 USD) per person. It's located about 15 minutes from Tulum and 45 minutes from Playa del Carmen by car or bus.

• Coba: Entrance fee is MXN 75 (approx. $4 USD) per person. It's located about 45 minutes from Tulum and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen by car or bus.

2. Snorkel or Dive in Cozumel

Cozumel is one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations, and it's just a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are filled with colorful fish and other marine life, and there are also underwater caves and coral reefs to explore. If you're an adventure seeker, this is a must-do activity.

• Ferry to Cozumel: The ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel takes about 45 minutes and costs approximately MXN 250 (approx. $12 USD) per person each way.

• Snorkeling and diving tours: Prices vary depending on the tour operator and the length of the tour. Expect to pay around MXN 1,000-1,500 (approx. $50-75 USD) per person for a half-day snorkeling or diving tour.

3. Visit Xcaret Park

Xcaret is a natural eco-park that offers a variety of activities for visitors. You can swim in underground rivers, snorkel with sea turtles, and even see local wildlife like jaguars and monkeys. The park also has cultural shows and performances that showcase Mexico's rich history and traditions.

• Entrance fee: Prices vary depending on the time of year and whether you purchase tickets in advance or at the park. Expect to pay around MXN 1,800-2,400 (approx. $90-120 USD) per person for a one-day admission ticket.

• How to get there: Xcaret is located about 15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen by car or taxi. There are also shuttle buses that run from Tulum and Playa del Carmen to Xcaret throughout the day.

4. Enjoy Water Activities

s. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from parasailing above the Caribbean Sea to paddleboarding in lagoons or mangrove forests, and renting jet skis to ride along the coastline. Prices vary depending on the activity and location, but you can expect to pay around $20 to $100 USD per hour. You can book tours with local companies or rent a car to explore the coast on your own. In Playa del Carmen, most water sports activities can be booked on-site at the beach.

5. Visit a Cenote

The Yucatan Peninsula is dotted with cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water that offer a unique swimming experience. Some of the most popular cenotes near Tulum and Playa del Carmen include Ik Kil, Gran Cenote, Dos Ojos, Cenote Azul, and Xkeken Cenote. The cost of visiting a cenote ranges from $5-$15 USD per person, depending on the location. To get to the cenotes, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or join a tour group.

6. Explore Tulum for beaches & nightlife

Rent a bike and explore Tulum's beautiful beaches like Playa Paraiso, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. As the sun sets, ride to the lively town center and enjoy Tulum's eclectic nightlife scene, with bars and clubs that range from trendy to traditional. During the day, explore Tulum's boutique shops, which offer everything from high-end fashion to unique, locally-made souvenirs. Biking is a great way to see all the sights while getting some exercise and fresh air.

7. Explore the Colorful Town of Valladolid

Valladolid is a charming colonial town located about an hour and a half from Tulum. It's known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant street art, and excellent food scene. You can visit the San Bernardino Convent, the stunning Cenote Zaci, and the Casa de los Venados, a private folk art museum. To get to Valladolid, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or join a tour group. Admission to the sights ranges from $2-$10 USD per person.

8. Relax on the Beach

When it comes to beaches, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and the surrounding areas have no shortage of stunning options. Playa Paraiso, located in Tulum, is known for its crystal clear waters and white sand beach. Akumal Beach, located about 25 minutes from Playa del Carmen, is home to a large population of sea turtles, making it a popular spot for snorkeling. Playa del Carmen's main beach, also known as Playa Mamitas, is a great spot for sunbathing and people-watching. While the beaches themselves are free, you may need to pay for parking or entrance fees at some locations.

9. Visit Isla Mujeres

Located just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a small island that offers a more laid-back alternative to the busy mainland. You can rent a golf cart or bike to explore the island's beautiful beaches, snorkel at the coral reef, or visit the sea turtle sanctuary. The ferry ride costs around $20 USD per person, and golf cart rentals range from $35-$50 USD per day.

10. Take a Sunset Cruise

Finally, what better way to end your trip to Tulum and Playa del Carmen than with a sunset cruise? You can sip a margarita, enjoy some snacks, and watch the most stunning sunsets over the Caribbean Sea. Sunset cruises vary in price depending on the length of the tour and the amenities included, but you can expect to pay around $50-$100 USD per person. There are plenty of tour companies in the area offering sunset cruises, so you can choose one that fits your budget and preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tulum and Playa del Carmen offer a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests and budgets. From exploring ancient ruins to swimming in cenotes, relaxing on the beach, and taking a sunset cruise, there's something for everyone in this tropical paradise. With a little bit of planning, you can experience the best of what the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Until next time, adios! <3