My Perfect Tulum Itinerary: How I Spent an Amazing 3 Days in Tulum Mexico in 2025

Tulum is without a doubt one of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico and honestly, I get why. 

I know it gets mixed reviews online (and a few justified eye-rolls), but I still think you can have an amazing time here if you do it the right way.

I’ve visited Tulum several times now, and my most recent trip in 2025 was genuinely one of the best. Despite all the drama and the ever-changing rules, I had such a good time that I decided to put together a few travel guides to help you plan your trip too.

In this post on the perfect Tulum itinerary, I’m sharing exactly how I spent my 3 days in Tulum, including my favorite food spots, activities, and beach clubs, so you can have just as great of a time as I did.

3 Day Tulum Itinerary – My Experience

As I’ve mentioned, I’ve been to Tulum a few times now, and every single trip felt completely different. The very first time I went, years and years ago, I was a broke backpacker staying in a tiny hostel in Tulum town. And honestly, I had the best time. People often forget that Tulum town is still a real, authentic Mexican town, not just the glossy beach strip you see all over Instagram.

My most recent visit, however, was a whole different story. This time, I stayed in a beachfront hotel, and let’s just say I’ve grown to prefer a private room over a dorm bed (can you blame me?).

After so many trips and experiences, from budget backpacking to beachfront luxury, I’ve done it all: cenotes, local food spots, beach clubs, and everything in between. So this itinerary is kind of the “best of” Tulum for me. I’ve included my favorite cenotes, the most authentic Mexican restaurants, and the beach clubs that actually deserve the hype.

Now, I’m the first to admit that Tulum is changing and not necessarily for the better. I noticed it on my last visit too. But I still believe you can have an amazing time here; you just have to know how to do it. (And hopefully, this guide will help you do exactly that.)

Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Tulum

Location Matters

Just in case you didn’t know, Tulum Beach and Tulum Town are about 2.5 miles apart. The hotel zone sits right on the beach (and yes, it’s much pricier), while Tulum Town is cheaper but a bit far from the ocean. Whenever I book a hotel on Booking.com, I always double-check the map first to see exactly where it’s located, I’ve made that mistake before. Click Here: Where to Stay in Tulum Mexico

Seaweed Is Real

Sargassum is a very real thing in Tulum and honestly, along the entire Riviera Maya. It usually hits between April and October, covering the beaches in piles of stinky seaweed. I don’t even bother visiting during that time anymore. These days, I always plan my stays between December and February to be on the safe side. I’ve been in Tulum during seaweed season before, and it really does ruin the beach vibe a little.

Terrible Beach Access

Beach access in Tulum has gotten worse and worse. There used to be free public beaches, but as of 2025, those are now part of the national park, meaning they’re still public, just no longer free. You now have to pay an entrance fee of 415 pesos, which is honestly ridiculous. Because of that, I usually just book a beachfront hotel in Tulum so I don’t have to stress about finding affordable beach access. (If you want some ideas, check out my guide on where to stay in Tulum). Click Here: Beaches in Tulum Travel Guide

Get an eSIM

I’ve been using an eSIM for years now, and it’s my go-to way of staying connected while traveling. It makes everything easier, from looking up restaurants to navigating around town or booking transport on the go. I personally use Sim Local, and I’ve only ever had great experiences with them. (Sign up here and use my discount code GIRLONAZEBRA for a little extra off!)

Is Tulum Safe

That’s a fair question and in my personal experience, yes, I’ve always felt safe in Tulum and nothing bad has ever happened to me. That said, I’ve heard my share of horror stories about scams and cartel activity, so I always recommend staying aware and using common sense.

Getting Around in Tulum

Tulum has a bit of a reputation for being a pain to get around and honestly, it’s true. The downtown and hotel zone are quite far apart, traffic is terrible, taxis overcharge like crazy, and Uber doesn’t exist. My go-to solution is renting a bicycle. It’s not the most comfortable way to get around, but I’ve actually gotten used to it and at this point, I kind of enjoy it. Check Out my guide on how to get around in Tulum for more information!

My 3 Day Tulum Itinerary

Day 1: Tulum Ruins & Beach Day

I always like to start my first day in Tulum with something cultural  and nothing beats the Mayan ruins in Tulum. 

I’ve seen quite a few ruins across Mexico by now, but the ones in Tulum are honestly some of the most spectacular I have seen so far, mostly because they sit dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean. 

To visit the ruins, you’ll need to buy a ticket for the Tulum National Park (also called Jaguar National Park) and then pay a separate fee to enter the ruins themselves. Altogether, it comes to around 500 pesos. It’s not exactly cheap, but I really think it’s worth it, the ruins are easily one of the most iconic cultural sights in the area and one of my personal favorites in all of Mexico.

After exploring, I always make it a full beach day since you’re already inside the national park and there are some stunning beaches within the park. The nearby Playa Ruinas is absolutely stunning with soft sand, clear water, and those ruins in the background. It’s probably my favorite beach in or around Tulum, so I usually take advantage of the entrance fee and stay for a few hours to swim and relax.

To end the day, I head to my favorite restaurant in Tulum: La Taqueria in Tulum Town. It’s got such a great vibe, super casual, lively, and filled with the smell of freshly grilled tacos. Their margaritas are amazing too, so for me, it’s the perfect way to kick off a Tulum trip. Tacos and margaritas, what more could I possibly want?

Day 2: Cenotes & Street Food in Tulum

One of my absolute favorite parts about being in Tulum, besides the beachfront hotels, beach clubs, and endless Mexican food, of course are the cenotes. 

If you’re not familiar with them, they’re natural sinkholes filled with fresh water, scattered all across the Yucatán Peninsula. Many are interconnected through underground tunnels, and each one has its own character, some are open and bright, others are mysterious and cave-like.

Over the years, I’ve been to quite a few, and there are some amazing ones right in or near Tulum, like Gran Cenote and Cenote Dos Ojos. Both are great for swimming, a bit of cliff jumping, and taking some unique pictures.

I personally love a bit more adventure, so I usually make a mini road trip out of it or book a tour to explore more cenotes in the area. Some of my personal favorites a bit farther out are Cenote Ik Kil, Cenote Suytun, and Cenote Calavera, each one completely different but equally stunning. I’ll also link some guided cenote tours below in case you’d rather not drive yourself.

After all that swimming and exploring, I always reward myself with some street food in Tulum Town. I genuinely think it’s one of the best parts of Mexican culture, and you can’t visit without trying it. 

My favorite spot is El Tio, which hands down the best street tacos in Tulum, and I’ve been coming here for years. If you’re a foodie like me, I also have a full guide on the best restaurants in Tulum that’s worth checking out.

Book Here: Cenote Tour Tulum

Day 3: Beach Clubs & Nightlife

I know, I know, this might not be the most adventurous day in Tulum, but honestly, part of what makes Tulum Tulum are the beach clubs and dreamy eco-chic hotels right on the sand. 

I’m not the kind of person who can just lie on the beach for ten days straight, but I do love dedicating one day of my trip, usually at the end, to simply treat myself.

For that, the beach clubs in Tulum are perfect. I’ve always had great experiences with the staff, the food is fantastic, the cocktails are dangerously good, and let’s be honest, lounging on a daybed with my toes in the sand is just unbeatable.

That said, not all beach clubs are created equal. Personally, I think Papaya Playa Project is totally overrated (and absurdly expensive), but Tantra for example is lovely, still overpriced, but the setting and food make up for it. Unfortunately, that’s kind of the theme with Tulum: stunning, but pricey.

When it comes to nightlife, though, I genuinely love Tulum. I can pick the exact kind of night I’m in the mood for, from DJ sets at beach clubs (again, expensive but magical during sunset) to cheap and cheerful nights in local bars downtown dancing to reggaeton until 2 AM. Tulum nightlife really has it all, depending on what vibe you’re after.

Day Trips from Tulum Mexico

If you have a little extra time in your Tulum itinerary, I highly recommend venturing a bit further out. The entire Yucatán Peninsula is full of underrated destinations and hidden gems that are absolutely worth exploring. Here are a few of my favorite day trips from Tulum — perfect if you’ve got an extra day or prefer exploring over lounging in beach clubs.

1. Visit Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is one of the best-preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. I’ve been twice now, and honestly, it’s 100% worth the hype. Sure, it’s touristy, but it’s also stunning and full of fascinating history. I really recommend going with a guide or booking a full-day tour so you actually learn something (not just admire the pyramids like I did the first time).

Book Here: Day Trip to Chichen Itza from Tulum

2. Swim with Turtles in Akumal

Years ago, you could just walk up to Akumal Beach with your own snorkel and swim alongside the turtles. Unfortunately, those days are gone and it’s now mandatory to join a guided tour. Still, it’s such a magical experience that I think it’s absolutely worth it. Most tours include transport, gear, and a guide, so it’s easy and fun.

Book Here: Swimming with turtles in Akumal Tulum

3. Explore Bacalar

In my opinion, Bacalar is one of the most underrated towns in the Yucatán and maybe even my favorite. It’s about a few hours south of Tulum, not on the ocean but on the incredible Lagoon of Seven Colors, which honestly might be even better than the sea. The town itself is super relaxed with great food and a laid-back vibe, and a sailing trip on the lagoon is an absolute must.

Book Here: Day Trip to Bacalar from Tulum

FAQs About 3 Day Itinerary Tulum

How do I get to Tulum, Mexico?

As of recently, you can actually fly directly into Tulum International Airport! Most flights currently come from Houston and Atlanta, but you can, of course, still fly into Cancún International Airport and take the ADO bus or a private shuttle to Tulum. The drive from Cancún takes around two hours.

Is Tulum worth visiting?

For now, yes, I still think Tulum is worth visiting. It’s changed a lot over the years, and not always for the better, but you can still have an amazing time if you know how to do it right. That said, if things keep going in the same direction (overdevelopment, restrictions, etc.), I might feel differently in a few years.

What is the best food in Tulum I should try?

Skip the hotel zone if you’re after real food. The best restaurants in Tulum are in town, especially around La Veleta. That’s where you’ll find local spots with incredible tacos, ceviche, and authentic Mexican dishes that aren’t triple-priced for tourists.

What are the best things to do in Tulum?

Cenotes! I’m obsessed with them. These freshwater sinkholes are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or cliff jumping and every single one feels different. Scuba diving in a cenote is still high on my bucket list.

How should I spend 3 days in Tulum, Mexico?

I’ve laid out my ideal 3-day itinerary in this guide, but there’s so much more you could do if you have extra time. Definitely check out my day trips from Tulum section for ideas, there are so many great spots nearby that are worth adding to your trip.

Final Thoughts on Spending 3 Days in Tulum Mexico

All in all, I still think Tulum is worth visiting and I genuinely had a great time there. That said, I personally prefer splitting my time when I’m in Mexico. Instead of spending 10 days straight in Tulum, I’d do something like 3 days in Tulum, 3 days in Playa del Carmen, and another 3 in Bacalar. That way, I get to see more of the Yucatán without getting tired of one place.

This 3-day Tulum itinerary works perfectly for a short trip, long enough to experience the best of it, without overstaying. And if you’re planning to keep exploring, don’t miss my other Mexico guides for Bacalar, Isla Mujeres, and Isla Holbox (which might just be my favorite of them all).

Check Out My Other Tulum Travel Guides

Is Tulum Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

How to Get Around in Tulum: My Taxi & Bicycle Guide

Where to Stay in Tulum Mexico: The Top Areas & Hotels

Best Time to Visit Tulum: How to Avoid the Seaweed

How to Get to Tulum Mexico: Cancun Airport to Tulum

Cafes in Tulum: The Best 7 Cafes Tulum

Best Restaurants in Tulum Mexico: My Top Food Spots

Best Things to Do in Tulum Mexico: My 9 Top Activities

Beaches in Tulum Mexico: Our Favorite Tulum Beaches