With sparkling turquoise waters, brilliant white sand beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum is a tropical paradise. Located two hours south of the party town of Cancun and with a range of activities and outdoor adventures, it’s a fantastic destination to visit as a family. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy together:
Bike tour through the Coba Ruins
The Coba Ruins are nestled in the jungle, with three main sites spread out amongst the trees. It is possible to explore the ruins on foot, however, visitors should make sure to set aside the whole day to do so.
Renting bikes is a great way to explore the ruins, not only for convenience but for the great adventure of cycling through dense forest paths under a canopy of towering trees.
Cycle to the tallest temple first and climb to the top for some breathtaking views.
The Coba Ruins are a 40-minute drive from Tulum. Admission is just $4 and bike rental costs around $3 per person, with small bikes available for children.
Explore underground rivers and caves in Aktun-Chen
The caves of Atkun-Chen are mesmerising. Wander through ancient underground paths through stalagmite and stalactite-lined caverns that are over 5 million years old.
Enjoy a guided tour that will amaze and excite the whole family.
For a more unique underground adventure, snorkel, swim and walk through the underground rivers in the park. The guided tour, with equipment provided, takes you through these incredible water paths to secret cenotes within the caves.
Above ground, there is plenty to explore in Aktun-Chen. Walk over daring hanging bridges and zipline through the jungle or explore the scenery on foot on one of many hiking trails.
The park is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, and tours range from $20 – $45 per person.
Hit the beach
Playa Paraiso (Paradise Beach) is one of the most popular public beaches in Tulum. Enjoy a day of relaxing on the beach or explore the waters by snorkelling or taking a boat tour.
Enjoy the tranquillity of the beach in the early morning or the buzz and bustle of the afternoon.
Playa Ruinas is a must-visit, with its picturesque cliffs and Maya ruins overlooking the soft sand beach. Walk along the coastline and enjoy the epic views or visit early morning to make the most of the beach.
If you want to escape the crowds, take a trip out to Secret Beach. Just 15 minutes by car or an hour bike ride from Tulum this secluded beach is perfect for a quiet day of relaxing on the sand and enjoying the water. Pack a picnic because there are no restaurants or beach clubs here.
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Paddleboard, kayak, and swim in the cenotes
Cenotes are like giant sinkholes creating sparkling pools of crystal-clear water, surrounded by rocky cliffs, and lush jungles.
Whether you are looking to try stand-up paddle boarding, hire a kayak or simply swim, Tulum has plenty of cenotes to explore.
Casa Cenote just outside of the Tulum is a large cenote surrounded by lush mangrove forest.
As well as paddle boarding and kayaking, it is also a great location to learn to scuba dive. Paddle your way through the mangrove forest and spot local fish and wildlife.
Cenote Zacil-Ha is best for young families with shallow waters, swimming pools, and zip lining available nearby. Gran Cenote is one of the most popular in Tulum offering a series of cenotes connected by wooden boardwalks. Gran Cenote is a great place for snorkelling too.
Car Wash Cenote or Aktun Ha Cenote boasts a beautiful underwater garden with fish and turtles to be found swimming here. Once a car washing spot for local taxis, it is now a tranquil open-air cenote with a diving platform.
Visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere
As well as its rich biodiversity, Sian Ka’an is also part of the Maya Ka’an Region which offers unique experiences in nature alongside the historical and cultural elements of the Mayan communities.
Kayak through mangrove mazes to spot pelicans, herons, crabs and other wildlife or take a boat ride through the Muyil lagoon and ancient canals. Hike through interpretive jungle trails and learn about the local flora and fauna with a local Mayan guide.
Snorkel through a tapestry of colourful corals in Sian Ka’an along one of the planet’s largest barrier reefs, and spot dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Relax on the secluded beaches or swim in the crystal waters of the Mayan Canal.
Take the Ancient Mayan Route tour to learn all about this destination’s history and culture, as you explore ancient ruins and stunning canals.
From epic scenery and incredible adventures to beautiful beaches and sparkling cenotes, there is something for the whole family to enjoy in Tulum.