Dream escape: Tulum
Powder-soft sand, crystal-clear waters and bountiful sunshine are what you’ll discover in this tropical haven
Located on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is the historic and beautiful city of Tulum. The stunning seaside destination—which was built by the Maya!—is revered for its seven miles of sun-soaked beaches, perfect yearround temperatures, awe-inspiring caves and pools and quaint downtown that guarantees delights for everyone.
Start your getaway by basking in the sun on the picturesque Playa Paraiso. “There is natural shade from palm trees and plenty of places where you can stretch out your own towel and not have to pay for a beach club chair,” says a reviewer from Ohio. “The overall vibe was relaxed, and there’s a bar, restaurant, outdoor massage service and great music to enjoy.”
To catch a glimpse of underwater wonders, head to Casa Cenote, a freshwater sinkhole that flows into the sea, for a unique snorkeling adventure.
Says a reviewer from Texas, “Very cool seeing the mangrove roots underwater and the fish hiding among them!”
After you towel off, make the hour-long drive to explore the Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, a preserved area of forest that’s home to exotic wildlife like monkeys, birds and jaguars, as well as exhilarating guide-led activities like zip-lining and canoeing. “So cool to see the spider monkeys swinging around right above you,” says J0N_R92 on TripAdvisor.com. “They get so close (not quite close enough to touch), but we were shocked at how many monkeys were out playing.”
End your day by embarking on a kayak tour (rates start at $165 per person) in the 1.3-million-acre Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Says jasweidner on TripAdvisor.com, “The peace and tranquility of the laguna was amazing, and the sunset was spectacular!”
Great day trip:
Valladolid
Hop in the car for a 90-minute drive west to the city of Valladolid, one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos (magical towns). During your visit, tour the lush landscapes at Xkopek Parque Apicola, explore the 16th-century Convent de San Bernardino de Siena, see Mexican folk art at Casa de los Venados and wander the picturesque Plaza e Parque Francisco Canton.
Don’t miss:
Dolphinaris Tulum
Get up close and personal with the playful dolphins at the Bahia Principe Grand Tulum hotel’s dolphinarium ($69 per person). You’ll spend the afternoon kissing, touching and swimming with the marine animals while learning about the species’ behavior.