Tulum & Cancún, Mexico
During my 8 months in Mexico City, I decided to take a week-long trip to Tulum. I didn’t know exactly what to expect—Tulum had always been one of those places that felt like it was both celebrated and critiqued in equal measure. After a week there, I realized that it’s a destination that’s as complex as it is beautiful, but it also made me appreciate other, more raw and authentic corners of Mexico. While Tulum certainly has its charm, there are so many other places in Mexico that feel like they offer a deeper, more authentic experience, like Puerto Escondido, Sayulita, and small towns of Baja California.
That said, Tulum does have its gems. SFER IK is a whole vibe—a hotel that feels more like an extension of the jungle than a place to crash. The mesh seating area overlooking Tulum's landscape is the perfect place to chill with a cocktail, especially at sunset. It’s one of those places where you can sit back and feel completely in tune with the environment. The on-site boutique, ZAK IK, carries the perfect mix of chill yet high-end fashion pieces that feel in sync with the whole Tulum aesthetic. And for those looking to pamper themselves, the Azulik Spa offers a truly immersive experience—think nature, relaxation, and total peace. Kin Toh, the treetop restaurant, is where dining becomes a whole event. Elevated dishes, unreal views, and the sense that you’re eating something really special.
Tulum’s Dining Scene
When it comes to eating in Tulum, there’s a spectrum. On the one hand, you have standouts like Hartwood, which stays true to its farm-to-table ethos while embracing the earthy beauty of Tulum. Dining under the stars in an open-air space surrounded by trees feels like part of the experience. Tulum Treehouse also stands out—not just for the food, but for the atmosphere, offering a casual, intimate setting with food that matches its vibe. For something a bit different, Posada Margherita serves up beachside Italian dishes, perfect for a more relaxed meal where the sound of the ocean adds to the experience. Kitchen Table was all about simplicity: a space where food is prepared with purpose, focusing on the ingredients that reflect the local flavors and culture.
Cenotes & Chichén Itzá
Beyond Tulum and Cancun, what truly captured my eye in Quintana Roo and Yucatán were the cenotes. These incredible natural pools, hidden deep within the jungle, are truly breathtaking. Valladolid, just a short drive from Tulum, is a charming town full of culture. On my way to Chichén Itzá, I stopped for lunch at El Mesón del Marqués, where I had my first taste of Yucatecan cuisine. It was the perfect pit stop—both delicious and authentic. Valladolid is also one of Mexico's "Pueblos Mágicos," and it definitely lives up to the title with its vibrant atmosphere and rich history. And of course, Chichén Itzá, one of the world's seven wonders, is absolutely worth the trip. Its grandeur, history, and remarkable architecture are a powerful reminder of the ancient Mayan civilization.
What surprised me about Tulum was how hard it is to actually see the beach. The whole town is basically a long strip of road, Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila, with the beach tucked behind the walls of all the exclusive resorts and beach clubs. It’s kind of a letdown when you expect to be able to stroll along the shore at any given moment, but you can’t unless you head into one of those private spots. When I finally made it to a beach club, though, the turquoise water and white sand were stunning—just a little too commercialized for my taste.
Isla Mujeres
As for Cancun, I have to admit it wasn’t my favorite. It felt overly commercialized and touristy, with a heavy focus on resorts and big crowds. That said, if you find yourself in Cancun, I’d recommend taking the short ferry ride over to Isla Mujeres. This small island offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and luxury of Cancun, with crystal-clear waters, quaint streets, and a relaxed vibe that makes it the perfect day trip. If you happen to be staying in Cancun, El Fish Fritanga is an excellent spot for a casual, beachfront meal, with fresh seafood that captures the island’s charm.
Tulum is definitely worth seeing at least once in your life. It has its own unique charm, but it shines best when experienced as part of a broader journey through Quintana Roo and Yucatán. While it offers stunning views, incredible dining, and a taste of luxury, it feels more like a stop within a larger exploration of the region. Rather than dedicating an entire trip to Tulum, I’d recommend incorporating it into a wider adventure, where you can also discover the authenticity of nearby towns, cenotes, and cultural landmarks. That way, you get the best of both worlds—the beauty of Tulum and the deeper, more raw sides of Mexico that make it truly unforgettable.
Minnen’s Picks - Tulum:
SFER IK
Macondo
Tulum Treehouse
Hartwood
Cenote Yax-kin