Tulum

Akumal, also known as the "land of the turtles," and Xcacel-Xcacelito are favorite nesting sites for species like the Green turtle and the Loggerhead. They can be visited year-round to witness the entire process—from nesting to the birth of hatchlings and their journey to the sea—and it is even possible to swim with them. These beaches also feature protected vegetation, such as kuká palm forests, chit palm forests, and mangrove ecosystems.

This area has the best views of any archeological site: the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. The site’s main structures are: El Castillo, topped by a temple whose facade features three access points adorned with deities, columns with serpent motifs, and zoomorphic figureheads; Templo del Dios Descendente, dominated by a sculpture of the deity; and Templo de los Frescos, with interior paintings depicting aspects of the Mayan cosmogony. While it was not a large urban center, it played a leading role in the region’s trade both at sea and on land between the 13th and 16th centuries. The main buildings were erected during the late postclassical period. It was also an astronomical observatory and point of defense.

Sian Ka’an, or Origin of the Sky. The Reserva de la Biosfera de Sian Ka’an refuge spreads over more than 650,000 hectares and is made up of virgin beaches and spectacular landscapes where you can observe regional plant and animal life in rainforests, dunes, and wetlands. Pumas, spider monkeys, jaguars, dolphins, manatee, howler monkeys, sea turtles, and more than 300 bird species have made this paradise their home.

Follow the shore that starts in the archeological zone and delight in its velvety, smooth sand. Its beaches are one of Tulum’s main attractions, with their warm, turquoise colored water and fine sand that stretches for miles. They are perfect for sunbathing, lounging, reading a book, and taking a dip in the ocean. We recommend starting with the beach that opens out from the edge of the ruins. To reach it, pay the site’s entrance fee. Other options are Akumal, Xcacel, and Bahía Príncipe, which are also a sea turtle protection area.

There are several natural freshwater cenote pools in the area, such as Cristal and Escondido 3.1 miles to the south, Aktun-Há 1.8 miles away, and Casa Cenote at 6.8 miles. The Gran Cenote, 2.1 miles away on the way to Cobá, is a system made up of several cenote pools created by an enormous sinkhole. Its depths hold stalactites and stalagmites that form incredible landscapes to scuba dive. Plus, you can swim, snorkel, and have a picnic in the designated area.