Tulum Solo Travel – 10 Best Places

Ever thought about experiencing the magic of Mexico’s Riviera Maya all on your own? That’s exactly what I did in Tulum, and trust me—going solo gave me a chance to soak in everything this beautiful town has to offer.

From Mayan ruins to crystal-clear cenotes, Tulum is packed with spots that are perfect for solo travelers who crave a bit of everything: history, nature, good vibes, and beach relaxation.

Here’s my detailed guide to Tulum solo travel!

Why Tulum is Perfect for Solo Travelers

Tulum is an ideal destination for solo travelers because it’s safe, easy to navigate, and has an endless variety of things to do.

English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, so you’ll find it easy to communicate if you don’t speak Spanish.

Plus, the town’s unique blend of beachside chill and cultural richness makes it super friendly for solo adventurers. Whether you’re into history, spirituality, or just relaxing by the beach, Tulum has something for everyone.

Top Things to Do in Tulum Solo Travel

Free things to do

If you’re on a budget or simply looking for some laid-back activities, here are a few free things to do in Tulum:

• Bike Around Tulum – Many hostels and hotels offer free or low-cost bike rentals, and it’s a great way to explore the town.
• Visit Tulum’s Art Installations – Stop by I Scream Bar or the famous Ven a la Luz sculpture at Ahau Tulum for some cool photos.
• Yoga on the Beach – Some beach clubs offer free yoga classes early in the morning; just bring your mat and join in!

Explore the Tulum Ruins

The iconic Tulum Ruins are a must-see. The ancient Mayan city perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea is one of the most breathtaking spots in Tulum.

Entry is $4 USD, and you can explore the area at your own pace or join a guided tour to learn more about Mayan history.

• Pro Tip: Go early in the morning (around 8 am) to beat the crowds and avoid the midday heat.

Swim in the Cenotes

Tulum is famous for its cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with freshwater, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some of my favorites include:

• Gran Cenote – The most popular one, with beautiful clear water and small turtles swimming around. Entry costs $10 USD.
• Cenote Calavera – Known as the “Temple of Doom,” this cenote is fun and unique with different openings to jump through. Entry is about $8 USD.

Each cenote offers a different experience, so try a few to see which you love best!

Enjoy Tulum’s Beaches

The beaches in Tulum are legendary, with powdery white sand and turquoise water. The best part? Beaches like Playa Paraiso and Playa Ruinas are free to enter!

For a beach club experience, try Papaya Playa Project (day pass for around $50 USD), which includes food, drinks, and access to their private beach area.

Playa Paraiso (Paradise Beach)

Why Visit: True to its name, Playa Paraiso is one of Tulum’s most famous beaches for a reason. It’s a public beach with wide stretches of soft white sand and calm, turquoise water. The iconic leaning palm tree here is a favorite photo spot for travelers.

Highlights:

• Perfect for swimming thanks to gentle waves.
• You’ll find a few beach clubs nearby if you want to rent chairs or umbrellas, but it’s still possible to enjoy this beach for free.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot on the sand and beat the crowds!

Playa Ruinas

Why Visit: Playa Ruinas is one of the most unique beaches in the world because it sits right below the Tulum Ruins. You can swim with the ancient Mayan city on the cliffs above you, making it a perfect combination of history and natural beauty.

Highlights:

• Small but scenic, and ideal for taking in the contrast of history and nature.
• Accessed through the ruins site (entry is around $4 USD), so it’s best to visit after you explore the ruins.

Pro Tip: Bring your camera! The views of the ruins from the water are breathtaking and make for a memorable shot.

Las Palmas Public Beach

Why Visit: Las Palmas is a less crowded, low-key beach, perfect if you want a quieter escape. While it’s still popular, it doesn’t get as busy as Playa Paraiso, making it great for relaxing, reading, or simply sunbathing.

Highlights:

• Close to Playa Paraiso but with a more laid-back vibe.
• Free to enter with plenty of open space, making it a popular spot for solo travelers who prefer a tranquil environment.

Pro Tip: Bring your own snacks and water since amenities are limited. It’s a true “bring what you need and stay a while” beach.

Akumal Beach

Why Visit: Although a bit outside Tulum (around a 20-minute drive north), Akumal Beach is worth the trip. Known for its sea turtles, it’s a top spot for snorkeling and seeing marine life up close.

Highlights:

• Clear waters where you can spot turtles, rays, and fish (best with a guide to protect the turtles).
• Entrance is free, though a guide may cost $10–20 USD if you want a snorkeling tour.

Pro Tip: Go early in the morning for the best chance to see turtles before the beach gets busy. And remember to use reef-safe sunscreen!

Secret Beach (Sian Ka’an Biosphere)

Why Visit: Located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Secret Beach is an undeveloped, pristine beach that feels like a hidden paradise. Sian Ka’an itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity, so you’ll get to experience nature untouched by crowds and resorts.

Highlights:

• Ideal for those seeking a remote, natural experience.
• The waters are crystal clear and the beach is nearly deserted—perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.

Pro Tip: Bring all essentials (water, snacks, sunscreen) as there are no facilities. Getting here requires a rental car or a tour due to the rough roads.

Santa Fe Beach

Why Visit: Santa Fe Beach is located just south of the Tulum Ruins, offering a similar experience to Playa Paraiso but with fewer people. It’s a public beach with a few rustic beach clubs where you can rent chairs and buy refreshments.

Highlights:

• A great spot for swimming and relaxing with views of the nearby cliffs.
• Known for its more chill, local atmosphere than the more touristic beaches.

Pro Tip: If you’re up for a walk, start at Santa Fe and make your way toward the ruins for a beautiful beachfront stroll.

Papaya Playa Project

Why Visit: For a trendy beach experience, Papaya Playa Project is both a beach and a popular eco-hotel. Known for its beach club atmosphere, music, and events, it’s a favorite spot for young travelers and those looking for a party vibe.

Highlights:

• Day passes are available (typically around $50 USD, including food and drink credit).
• It’s famous for weekend beach parties and full-moon events that last until sunrise.

Pro Tip: This is more of a beach-club-meets-nightlife experience. If you want a laid-back beach day, try one of the other beaches. Papaya Playa Project is best if you’re in the mood for socializing.

Xpu-Ha Beach

Why Visit: Xpu-Ha Beach is a bit of a hidden gem outside Tulum, about a 30-minute drive north. It’s a beautiful, quiet beach with a small entrance fee (around $5 USD) and soft, clean sand.

Highlights:

• A great beach for swimming and relaxing with fewer crowds.
• The water here is calm and clear, ideal for a relaxed beach day without the hustle and bustle.

Pro Tip: There are a few beachfront restaurants and bars if you want to stay for lunch. It’s perfect for a peaceful day trip from Tulum.

Discover the Local Food Scene

Eating in Tulum solo was one of the highlights of my trip! From delicious tacos to authentic Mayan cuisine, Tulum has a diverse food scene:

• Taqueria Honorio – A local favorite for tacos, and incredibly affordable. Tacos are around $1.50 USD each!
• El Asadero – Known for its authentic Mexican grill, you can get a great meal for under $10 USD.

For vegan options, Burrito Amor is a must-try. They have delicious burritos starting at $7 USD.

Best Times to Visit Tulum

The dry season (November to April) is the best time to visit for sunny, breezy days. December to February can get busy, especially with tourists escaping winter back home, but it’s the perfect weather for exploring.

Low Season Perks: The rainy season (May to October) has fewer tourists, so prices are lower, and you can get some great deals on accommodations. Just be prepared for some humidity and occasional showers.

Getting to Tulum

Tulum is about 1.5 hours from Cancun International Airport by car. The ADO bus is a reliable and affordable option, with tickets costing around $15 USD.

Alternatively, shared shuttles and private taxis are also available, though the latter can cost up to $100 USD.

Where to Stay in Tulum

Hostels

One of the great things about Tulum is its variety of hostels, perfect for meeting other travelers:

• Selina Tulum – This spot is a bit pricier (around $30–$50 USD per night for a dorm bed) but offers a beautiful beachfront location and a great social vibe. Selina also has co-working spaces if you’re a digital nomad!
• Mayan Monkey Hostel – Located in the heart of Tulum, it’s cheaper (around $15–$20 USD per night) and perfect for solo travelers looking to make friends.

Budget Hotels

If you prefer a bit more privacy, Tulum has plenty of budget-friendly hotels:

• Casa Sofia Tulum – This charming place offers private rooms starting at $40 USD per night and has a cozy, quiet atmosphere.
• Teetotum Hotel – Known for its colorful vibe, this hotel offers rooms for around $50–$60 USD.

How to Stay Safe in Tulum as a Solo Traveler

While Tulum is generally safe, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas; stick to well-lit, busy streets.
• Keep valuables close, especially on public transportation.
• Let someone know your itinerary if you’re venturing into remote areas or cenotes solo.

Connecting with Other Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, I found that the best way to meet people was at hostels, beach clubs, and on organized tours. Many travelers in Tulum are also solo, so it’s easy to strike up conversations.

The bar at Selina Tulum is a popular social spot, and most hostels have nightly events that make mingling easy.

Final Thoughts on Solo Travel in Tulum

Going solo in Tulum was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. This town has a way of making you feel at home, even when you’re far away.

From the breathtaking beaches to the awe-inspiring ruins, Tulum is a paradise for solo travelers who love a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Whether you’re backpacking on a budget or treating yourself to a bit of luxury, Tulum has something special in store for you.

Pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and get ready for a journey you’ll never forget!