Tulum is a trendy beach town and archaeological site about 130 km south of the airport.

About Tulum

Tulum has two distinct areas: the archaeological zone and the beach/town. The Tulum Ruins, perched dramatically on 12-meter cliffs above turquoise waters, are the most photogenic Mayan ruins in Mexico—the Castillo temple framed by the Caribbean below has become one of the country\'s most iconic images. The ruins were one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya, serving as a major port for trading jade and obsidian.

Tulum\'s Beach Road (Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila) hosts the famous hotel zone—a strip of boho-luxury lodges, design hotels, and beach clubs with a wellness-focused, Instagram-famous aesthetic. Many properties are off-grid with limited AC, candles instead of bright lighting, and cenote-inspired plunge pools. Tulum Pueblo (town center) is more affordable and authentic, with excellent taquerias, mezcal bars, and local culture. The Grand Cenote and Cenote Dos Ojos are a short bike ride from town, offering surreal underground swimming in crystal-clear water.

Nearby Landmarks

Tulum Ruins Gran Cenote Cenote Dos Ojos Tulum Beach Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost MXN 2,500-3,500 (USD 140-200)
Time 2-2.5 hours

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Take ADO bus from the airport to Tulum bus station. Direct service runs several times daily. Comfortable air-conditioned coach.

Private shuttle services

Cost USD 50-80 per person
Time 2 hours
Frequency Pre-booked

Outside Arrivals

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi MXN 2,500-3,500 (USD 140-200) 2-2.5 hours Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Bus/Shuttle USD 50-80 per person 2 hours Cheapest option

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The last ADO bus from Cancún Airport to Tulum departs around 10:00–11:00 PM. After that, only private transfers are available (USD 120–180 for a sedan). Tulum's Beach Road is dark and quiet after midnight with very limited transport. From the Pueblo, colectivos and taxis stop running around 10:00 PM. Pre-arrange all late-night transport.

Luggage Tips

ADO buses have luggage storage underneath for the long ride. The road from Tulum Pueblo to the Beach Road hotels is rough in places—hard-shell suitcases on wheels struggle on unpaved shoulders. Many beach hotels have no paved vehicle access—you may walk the final stretch on sand or gravel. Pack accordingly with soft bags if staying on the Beach Road.

Accessibility

Tulum's Beach Road has limited infrastructure—many hotels lack paved paths, and the road itself has no sidewalks. The Tulum Ruins have a paved path to the main viewing area but stairs at several points. Tulum Pueblo has flat streets but inconsistent sidewalks. Wheelchair access in Tulum overall is very limited. The ADO bus to Tulum is not wheelchair accessible.