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Tulum has exploded in popularity over the past decade. But with the rise in tourism has come a wave of mixed opinions. If you’re planning a trip and wondering, “Is Tulum worth visiting?” you’re not alone. As someone who’s been there, I want to give you a candid review, highlighting both the highs and lows so you can make an informed decision. If you’re like me—someone who loves travel but wants to balance adventure with relaxation, all without blowing your budget—then this post is for you.
The Seaweed Problem: A Persistent Issue
First things first, let’s address something that a lot of people overlook until they arrive: the seaweed problem. For a significant part of the year, Tulum’s beautiful beaches are hit with sargassum. This type of seaweed that can seriously affect your beach experience. This seaweed season typically runs from April to October, with the worst months being in summer. Not only does it cover the sand in brown heaps, but it also turns the water a murky colour and emits a less-than-pleasant smell.
When we visited during the sargassum season, we were so disappointed. I really regretted not doing my research as I had expected crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand, just like Instagram! But instead, we were met with beaches that didn’t quite match those perfect images. Some hotels try to clear the seaweed, but it’s a losing battle during peak months. If you’re planning a beach vacation, this should be a dealbreaker for you.
If you still want to visit Tulum and avoid the seaweed, consider travelling in the winter months. November to January is when the beaches are clearer.
Tulum’s Split Personality: Beach vs Town
Another thing you should know about Tulum is its unusual layout. There are two main areas to consider: Tulum Beach and Tulum Town. They’re about a 15-20 minute drive apart, and the experiences in each are vastly different.
Tulum Beach is where you’ll find all those fancy, Instagrammable beach clubs, yoga retreats, and luxury hotels. But it comes at a price—everything here is overpriced in my opinion. I’m talking about $20 cocktails, $200-a-night (or more) boutique hotels, and some restaurants where a simple lunch could set you back $30 or more. While this probably doesn’t sound like a lot, compared to other parts of Mexico, this is super expensive. If you’re someone who’s comfortable spending money for convenience and aesthetics, then you might not mind. But for those of you who are a bit more budget-conscious, Tulum Beach might feel like a tourist trap.
On the other hand, Tulum Town (or “el pueblo”) offers a more affordable, authentic Mexican experience. This is where you’ll find local taco joints, affordable hostels, and a more laid-back atmosphere. I stayed at Meteora Guesthouse in the town, which I highly recommend. It’s clean, social, and perfectly situated for those who want to explore both the town and beach without spending a fortune. Renting a bike is a great way to get around. Bike rentals cost about $10 USD per day, and it’s about a 30-minute ride to the beach from the town.
If you’re deciding whether Tulum is worth visiting based on the vibe, you’ll have to choose between these two contrasting experiences.
Overpriced and Overcrowded: Is Tulum Still Authentic?
One of the biggest complaints I have about Tulum is how over-commercialised it has become. The once laid-back beach town has morphed into a hotspot for influencers and luxury travellers, and it shows. I couldn’t shake the feeling that everything was geared towards Instagram moments, rather than genuine cultural experiences.
Whether it’s the trendy beach clubs or the boutique hotels, everything feels curated for social media. The problem with this is that it’s drastically inflated the cost of everything. Simple pleasures, like enjoying a meal or a cocktail on the beach, come at a high price. It’s hard to justify the cost when there are other places in Mexico that offer the same beauty for much less.
If you’re someone who values authenticity and affordability, Tulum might feel a little too “manufactured.” But, if you’re someone who enjoys luxury, Tulum Beach might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Cenotes: Tulum’s Natural Wonder
Despite its flaws, Tulum does have something that makes it special—its cenotes. These natural sinkholes are scattered throughout the region, and they are absolutely stunning. Exploring them was, without a doubt, the highlight of my trip.
Here are a few cenotes you can’t miss:
- Gran Cenote: This is the closest to Tulum Town and one of the most popular. It’s beautiful but often crowded, especially during peak times. Entry is around $500 MXN ($25 USD).
- Cenote Dos Ojos: If you’re into snorkelling or diving, this cenote is a must-visit. It’s about a 30-minute drive from town, and entry costs $350 MXN ($20 USD).
- Cenote Calavera: This lesser-known cenote is great for a quieter, more serene experience. Entry is $250 MXN ($13 USD).
The cenotes are truly magical, and if you’re into nature, they alone make Tulum worth visiting. The best part is that many of them are a short drive or bike ride from Tulum, making it easy to explore several in a day.
Tulum Ruins: Scenic but Underwhelming?
The Tulum Ruins are one of the most iconic sites in the area. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea they’re definitely worth a visit. But to be completely honest, they didn’t blow me away. The location is beautiful, but the ruins themselves are not as impressive as others in Mexico, like Chichén Itzá or Uxmal.
That said, the ruins are easy to reach and cost only $80 MXN ($4 USD) to enter. So if you’re already in Tulum, it’s worth stopping by for the views alone. But if you’re a history buff looking for something more profound, I’d recommend visiting Coba or taking a day trip to Chichén Itzá instead.
Alternatives to Tulum: Hidden Gems Worth Considering
If after reading this you’re still unsure whether Tulum is worth visiting, I wouldn’t blame you. The good news is that Mexico has plenty of alternatives that offer similar experiences.
1. Valladolid – Colonial Charm and Cenotes Galore
Just a 90-minute drive from Tulum, Valladolid is a colourful colonial town steeped in history and local culture. Unlike Tulum, which has become a hub for trendy beach clubs, Valladolid offers a more authentic Mexican experience. With charming cobblestone streets, pastel-painted houses, everything goes at a slower pace.
The town itself is a pleasure to explore, with local markets, churches, and callejones (alleys) where you can truly soak up the Yucatán vibe. It’s also a cenote paradise. Cenotes like Cenote Zací, located right in the middle of town, and Cenote Suytun, with its famous platform in the middle of the water, are less crowded than those in Tulum. Plus, you’re a short drive from Chichén Itzá, one of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites.
Valladolid is far more affordable too, with local eateries serving delicious tacos and cochinita pibil for just a few dollars. Accommodation options range from quaint boutique hotels to budget hostels, meaning you can still experience comfort without breaking the bank.
2. Bacalar – The Lagoon of Seven Colours
If you’re looking for a stunning water-based destination but want to avoid the seaweed problem, head south to Bacalar. Known for its Laguna de Siete Colores (Lagoon of Seven Colours), Bacalar is a small town with a huge wow factor. The lagoon’s multi-coloured hues – from light turquoise to deep blue – are breathtaking. The calm waters are also perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.
Bacalar hasn’t been overrun by tourism yet, so you’ll find a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere where you can truly unwind. Prices here are much more reasonable than in Tulum, both for food and accommodation. You can find waterfront cabanas and eco-lodges for under $100 USD per night, which is a steal compared to beachfront properties in Tulum.
One of Bacalar’s highlights is the Fort of San Felipe, which overlooks the lagoon and offers a glimpse into the region’s history of pirate invasions. Plus, you can take boat tours to explore Cenote Azul Bacalar, an incredibly deep and clear cenote right next to the lagoon.
3. Puerto Escondido – A Surfer’s Paradise with Pacific Vibes
If you’re craving beach vibes but want to steer clear of the Caribbean’s sargassum, head to Puerto Escondido on Mexico’s Pacific coast. This beach town in Oaxaca is a mecca for surfers, with famous waves at Playa Zicatela. It also caters to those just looking for a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere without the Instagram-driven crowd.
Puerto Escondido is far less commercialised than Tulum, and the local food scene is a delight, featuring fresh seafood, local Oaxacan specialities like tlayudas and mole, and plenty of beachside dining spots. Prices here are also more reasonable – you can easily find beachfront accommodations for $40-50 USD per night.
For a more serene vibe, check out Playa Carrizalillo or La Punta, which are quieter and ideal for lounging and swimming. If you love nature, the bioluminescent waters of Laguna de Manialtepec are a must-see.
4. Isla Holbox – A Quiet Island Escape
If you’re after an island vibe but don’t want the crowds of Isla Mujeres or Cozumel, Isla Holbox is the perfect alternative. Located off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, Holbox offers white sandy beaches, the crystal-clear waters Tulum had promised me, and a laid-back, car-free town where the primary mode of transport is golf carts.
The island is a haven for nature lovers, especially during whale shark season from June to September when you can snorkel alongside these gentle giants. Holbox’s beaches are mostly free from sargassum, and its chilled atmosphere is a refreshing break from the hustle of Tulum.
Holbox has a good range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to eco-resorts, and while it’s a bit pricier than the mainland, it’s far less expensive than Tulum. Expect to pay $10-15 USD for a meal at a local restaurant, and around $70-100 USD per night for beachfront lodging.
So, is Tulum worth visiting? It depends on what you’re after. If you’re looking for a luxurious, social media-worthy experience with beach clubs and fancy restaurants, and you don’t mind paying for it, then yes, Tulum is still worth the trip. The cenotes are breathtaking, and the town itself offers a glimpse of authentic Mexican culture, especially if you stay away from the beachfront tourist traps.
But if you’re on a budget, crave more authenticity, or prefer less crowded, less commercialised destinations, you might want to skip Tulum and explore other parts of Mexico that offer just as much beauty with a fraction of the hassle.
If you’re on the fence about Tulum, here’s my advice: visit for the cenotes and ruins, but don’t make it a long stay. Combine it with nearby, less crowded destinations like Isla Holbox or Bacalar for a more rounded, authentic experience of Mexico. You’ll get the best of both worlds—Tulum’s highlights without the hefty price tag or the crowds.
