Tulum, FOUND: A Coastal Haven of Culture and Calm

Tulum is Mexico’s modern-day sanctuary of wellness and coastal beauty, a blend of the ancient and the avant-garde.

Once a walled Mayan port city, it is now a global escape for pristine beaches, holistic experiences, eco-luxury stays, culinary treasures, and a vibrant nightlife. Tulum invites you to slow down, reset, and reconnect—with nature, with culture, and with yourself. Here, jungle paths lead to hidden cenotes, design-forward hotels blend seamlessly with the coastline, and every detail feels intentional.

It is a place where you can either relax and find your balance or party until the sun rises. A timeless blend of nature, culture, and barefoot luxury, Tulum is where ancient energy meets modern indulgence.

  • Getting There

    Fly to Tulum International Airport(TQO)

    Fly to Cancun Airport (CUN) and take a 1.25-hour transfer

    Take the Mayan Train from Cancun

    Rent a car and drive down the Riviera coast line

  • Where to Stay

    Conrad Hotel – Sitting on a secluded bay surrounded by mangroves and untouched jungle is Hilton's elegant entry into Tulum’s luxury hospitality scene. Opened in 2022, featuring 349 rooms, many with private balconies and plunge pools, five pools, a private beachfront, a spa, and 11 restaurants and bars, featured by House Beautiful’s list of top all-inclusive resorts.

    Chable Tulum – Emphasizing harmony with the environment and sustainability as its core principle, with the whole retreat powered by solar and wind energy. Located within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, accessible by a 35-minute boat ride through mangroves or a 1.5-hour scenic car ride through lush jungle, this 10-room sanctuary offers all modern amenities as well as the rare experience of witnessing both a sunrise over the Caribbean and a sunset over the lagoon on the same day.

    Xela Tulum – Intimate “ beach house” retreat directly on Tulum beach offering 12 en‑suite rooms, direct private beach access, two infinity pools, a boutique spa, rooftop lounge, and stylish bar.

    La Valise – Part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this luxury boutique is where jungle serenity meets beachfront indulgence. Offering 22 suites (11 beachside, 11 jungle‑side), palapa-style roofs, and rolling beds that can be moved onto private terraces. The property also offers a full-service spa and two infinity pools.

    Muare – Adults only boutique wellness retreat emphasizing privacy and self connection. The villas provide high-end Bohemian interiors with plunge pools, hammocks, and lush terraces. The wellness center allows guests to enjoy healing rituals and a wellness spa.

  • Where To Stay Part Two

    Olas – Nestled at the quiet end of Tulum beach road, you will find this eight-suite eco‑conscious boutique. The vibe here is peaceful and unhurried, encouraging guests to unplug and relax.

    Casa Maya Kaan – Luxurious beachfront villa with four bedrooms, bell tents, and bungalows can accommodate 8 to 40 people, making it perfect for weddings, reunions, or retreats. Nestled on an untouched white sand beach inside Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, it welcomes its guests to connect with nature, awaken the soul, and free the mind.

    Our Habitas – Tranquil beachfront retreat, designed with an open‑air minimalist aesthetic, the resort offers 40 tented rooms with palapa roofs. Luxurious yet understated, each suite has hardwood floors, king-size beds , air conditioning, and outdoor rain showers, some directly to the beach while others are in the jungle. The wellness center is acclaimed for mindful treatments, yoga, Mayan rituals, and sound healing.

    Lula Tulum – Refined beachfront boutique delivering a mix of minimalist luxury, wellness, and coastal tranquility. 19 thoughtful suites with luxe amenities and king-size beds. The hotel also has a Wellness Center and Spa, an in-house restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace. Lula is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful rejuvenation. (

    Mi Amor Tulum – Located in the newly established Jaguar National Park, this dramatic cliffside setting offers 20 elegant rooms with plunge pools. This adults-only boutique blends luxury, romance, and natural beauty. Guests have access to protected beaches, cenotes, and trails with the hotel being part of Jaguar National Park.

    La Zebra – Chic beachfront gem offering 29 stylish rooms with premium amenities, with a “jungle chic” ambiance. The property boasts a popular restaurant and beach club of the same name, outdoor pool, swim-up bar, wellness center, and bike rentals for local exploration.

    Panamera Tulum The hotel component within the expansive lifestyle destination of Distrito Panamera, a 36-room boutique designed with checkered tiles, palapa roofing, striped loungers reminiscent of Soho House, but at Tulum beach. Adjacent to the central hotel is Suites Panamera, offering a heightened level of privacy and space, offering guests use of its iconic beachside pool, rooftop, restaurant, and signature beach club.

  • Things to Do

    Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve - a UNESCO World Heritage Site- is a mosaic of ecosystems with over 300 species of birds, and offshore lies the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world's second-largest coral reef. Mayan archaeological sites, ancient canals, jaguars, lagoons, and so much more can be found here. Activities here are infinite, from boat tours to snorkeling to kayaking.

    Cenote Calavera (Skull Cenote) - One of the most unique and adventurous cenotes, also called the Temple of Doom, looks like a big round hole in the ground, with three small openings that you can jump straight through into crystal clear water. Part of the Sac Atun underwater cave system, one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world, popular with divers for dramatic tunnels and halocines.

    Cenote Dos Ojos (Two Eyes Cenote) - One of the most spectacular cenotes, especially for snorkeling and cave diving. Like most cenotes, go early or late afternoon to beat the crowds.

    Gran Cenote - One of the most accessible cenotes, with stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal blue waters, it is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and casual exploration.

    Cenote Nicte-Ha - Instead of caves, this cenote is a natural open pool surrounded by dense vegetation like lotus and water lilies. Perfect for a calm swim and fewer crowds.

    Cenote Zacil-Ha - Locals’ favorite, famous for its short zipline that lets you drop straight into the cenote.

    Tulum Archeological Site - One of the few places in the world where ancient pyramids meet the sea. A walled Mayan city perched on the cliffs overlooking the Caribbean. The most famous structure is El Castillo(The Castle), which served as a lighthouse for Mayan traders arriving by canoe. The site also has murals, carvings, and its iconic residents, iguanas. Beat the crowds by going when it first opens, and don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat.

  • Things To Do Part Two

    Coba - A great complement to Tulum, as it is set on a much larger tract and is buried deep in the jungle, this ancient Mayan city (600-800)AD was once inhabited by 50,000. The tallest pyramid in the Yucatan, Nohoch Mul, is here, along with remnants of the “white roads,” raised stone causeways that linked Mayan cities and were integral to trade. 

    Yoga at Lula’s Wellness - Radiating calm sophistication and mindful luxury, this holistic, beachfront wellness center offers daily yoga and guided fitness across multiple disciplines. They also offer a full menu of rejuvenating therapies, all-inclusive multi-day retreats, and a Baja-Med restaurant to complement your wellness journey.

    Sfir’Ik Museum - One of Tulum’s most unique spaces, this contemporary art and cultural space is built with no right angles from natural materials and incorporates living trees and vines, blurring the boundary between art, nature, and architecture. With two locations, Azulik in Tulum and Uh May in the jungle, showcases avant-garde art, immersive exhibitions, workshops, and a meditative sanctuary. It’s not just a museum-it’s a futuristic atmosphere rooted in Mayan symbolism.

    Snorkeling and Scuba Diving - Tulum offers the best of both worlds-Caribbean reef life and world-class cenote cave diving/snorkeling. For those looking to learn or become certified, many local spots offer classes and PADI certification. Let us connect you with our certified, local dive masters. 

    Full moon parties - Monthly beach events celebrating the night when the moon is at its fullest, typically hosted at Papaya Playa Project on the Saturday nearest the full moon. These luminous beach gatherings are immersive music events with international DJs, performances, and art under the glowing moonlight. These parties are hugely popular and often sell out early. We recommend checking the moon calendar and the dates, as well as arranging transportation ahead of time.

  • Where to Eat & Drink Part One

    Arca - Under the direction of Executive Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza, previously of Noma and Noma Mexico, this can’t-miss spot offers open fire cooking in an immersive jungle setting. Dishes like Mayan octopus with lentil puree exemplify the culinary craftsmanship combined with a bar program that itself was rated #37 on North America’s 50 Best Bars.

    Hartwood - Running completely on solar power, the cooking here is on a handmade, wood-burning oven and grill. Nestled in the jungle off beach road, the mood is set here by lamps and candles swaying under palms. The menu rotates daily based on what’s fresh from nearby farms and fisheries if you want to dine enveloped in nature’s charm, plan ahead, as it is highly popular and can be a challenge to get in.

    Gitano Jungle and Gitano Beach Club -Two standout venues offering contrasting yet complementary vibes, one rooted in jungle mystique, the other beachfront elegance. Gitano Jungle is an open-air restaurant, mezcal bar, and lounge renowned for its “Jungle Room” and signature disco ball—the perfect spot for dinner and dancing. The “Beach Club” is a tropical yet refined spot for Mexican grilled food and signature mezcal cocktails on pristine white sand. Named one of the best beach clubs in the world by Condé Nast and the World’s 50 Best.

    Las Mestizas - A humble, simple spot that consistently earns high praise for its welcoming hospitality and authentic cooking. Traditional dishes are offered, with its standout being the poc chuk, tender pork marinated in citrus and grilled over charcoal. Go early to beat the lines.

    Mestixa - an Asian-Mexican concept known as “mestizaje” - blends techniques and flavors from Asian street food with Mexican traditions in an innovative way. This brainchild belongs to Hinostroza of ARCA fame and chef Cara Davis, who boasts experience at a trifecta of three-star Michelin restaurants (Alinea, Eleven Madison Park, and Donostia powerhouse Arzac).

    Taqueria Honorio - Authentic, no-frills, roadside tacos, featuring all-star cochinita pibil and lechon al Horno, with all tacos costing less than a dollar. Locals’ favorite for authenticity and consistent quality.

    La Negra Tomosa - Located in Centro Tulum, this cozy yet memorable establishment serves up seafood-heavy dishes. Unpretentious yet thoughtfully curated, expect fresh, flavorful coastal dishes.

  • Where to Eat & Drink Part Two

    Bonita Burger Bar - Gourment smash burgers, battered fish, and veggie options, along with a full bar, are served at this Centro garden patio. If you have had your fill of tacos and are craving a creative burger, this is your spot.

    Kin-Tho-Azulik - Famous treehouse-style restaurant where guests dine in nest-like seating pods, made from all-natural materials, perched high among the jungle canopy overlooking the jungle and ocean. Romantic, dramatic, and immersive, many go for the atmosphere and sunset views as much as the avant-garde fine dining.

    Matcha Mama - Serving a menu entirely plant-based and gluten-free, this juice and cafe bar drips with tropical charm. Murals and swings make this spot attractive and Instagrammable.

    Liquido y Solido - Health-focused cafe, off the beaten path, offering craft smoothies, vegan-friendly menu, and flavorful wraps.

    Cafe Hunab Ku - Tucked away in the LaVeleta neighborhood of Tulum, this health-conscious cafe features rich cappuccinos and light breakfast/brunch items on a laid-back patio. 

    Gusto - Artisanal Italian fare featuring handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. You must try the margherita pizza. This casual spot is located right in the center of town.

    Lula’s Kitchen - Our go-to spot for curated juices and smoothies, wellness shots, and health elixirs after sunrise yoga at Lula Wellness Center. With spectacular ocean views and an eclectic Baja-Med inspired menu make this a must and stop in enjoy the relaxed luxe beach ambiance.

  • Where to Eat & Drink Part Three

    Campanella Creamerie - When it's time, or you have the urge, for gelato, this is your spot. Gelato is the star here, but the crispy Belgian waffles topped with gelato are equally famous.

    Sabor de Mar - Laid back, local seafood joint located in Tulum’s centro, perfect for grabbing some beers paired with ceviche, aguachiles, shrimp tacos, and the massive tinga marlin burrito.

    El Vaquero - Trending and hot street food stand, owned and operated by local taxi driver Luis “El Vaquero” Felipe and his wife Tayra Lara, serving authentic family recipes, street food style, starring the Torta de Cochinita Pibil. 

    Pozoleria la Mexicanita - Hidden gem serving food that warms the soul. This beloved local cafe serves up some of the best relleno de papa, relleno de papa, and mole enchiladas.

    Mamazul Tulu Mezcaleria - Home to over 350 different mezcal and tequila selections, the largest in Tulum, this is perfect spot for mezcal enthusiasts for unparalleled tasting experiences and creative mezcal forward cocktails. 

    Bal Nak - Set in a protected jungle “sanctuary,” patrons can dine under the canopy on a menu that is entirely sourced locally, supporting indigenous communities. Chocolata clams, frilled watermelon aguachile, and an equally inspired and inventive cocktail program support such creative dishes.

    La Zebra Beach Club and Restaurant -Offering a scenic beachfront setting, palapa shaded lounge areas, plush day beds in a vibrant but unpretentious atmosphere that appeals to all kinds of guests. Fresh, local Mexican cuisine, themed nights, spa treatments, and weekend vibes amplified by live music and DJs.

    Nu - Lauded as a one of the Top 5 Restaurants in Riviera Maya by Travel + Leisure as well as a mention from the MIchelin guide, prepare for culinary tradition to be merged with innovative techniques. The bar program also delivers bespoke craft creations that echo the restaurant’s inventive palate. 

  • Where to Eat & Drink Part Four

    Ki-Buk - In Mayan, meaning “good aromas,” is precisely what you get at this cozy coffee experience. Using premium organic Mexican beans, they offer excellent espresso drinks and light breakfast and brunch items.

    Papaya Playa Project Beach Club -Tulum’s pioneer of barefoot luxury, offering guests a half mile of plush sand, your home for the day to relax, dine, or dance right on the Caribbean. For a more private experience with a personal butler, book the Oceanfront Loft for the day for around 11,500MXN(600USD). The beach club hosts sunset rooftop sessions, DJs, beachfront dinners, and Sunday brunch. PPP is also your destination for the world-famous Full Moon Party, right on the beach. The party brings intimate club energy, showcasing world-renowned DJs, creating an immersive nightlife experience under the stars. Book early as these parties sell out fast.

    Casa Jaguar - Known best for its legendary Thursday Jungle Parties, where guests gather under the jungle canopy for dinner, cocktails, and DJ sets that extend into the next day. It is always a memorable evening for gourmet dining, vibrant music, and jungle mystique. 

    Batey Mojito and Guarapo Bar - An iconic mojito haven where the signature drinks are made using freshly crushed sugarcane pressed right in a converted VW beetle—a must-see. Open from 7 am-1 am, you can start your day with coffee and then enjoy mojitos and live music at night—a staple for a genuine Tulum nightlife experience.

    Tantra Beach Club - Inspired by Balinese aesthetics, Tantra uses natural elements that harmonize rustic elegance in this jungle-meets-ocean setting. The menu is driven by local seafood with Asian influences, and the zen-inspired cocktails are a perfect complement. Saturday’s feature pool parties with boho beats, champagne parades, live DJs making for a memorable beachside indulgence.

  • Found Travel Tips

    Wi-Fi is spotty – download maps and music ahead of time

    Jungle Bugs are real – pack reef-safe bug spray

    Bring cash – not all places accept cards

    During high season and holidays, it can get super crowded, so make reservations well in advance

scroll the gallery below for some of our favorite moments in Tulum

Tulum is a place to slow down and recharge.

From boutique stays to luxury resorts, the mix of beach, jungle, and culture makes every trip feel special. At FOUND, we see Tulum as a reminder that travel is about more than the destination—it’s about how it makes you feel.

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