How to Plan a Trip
Best Instagram spots 
How to get there 
Getting around 
Where to stay Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.
Tulum, Mexico is an Instagram influencer and travel blogger’s dream. Located just over an hour from Cancun, Tulum should definitely be added to your bucket list. From the endless beachfront restaurants to the trendy decor, this vibrant beachtown is filled with Instagrammable spots. And the best part? It’s super easy to visit Tulum on a budget! I have visited Tulum four times, once even on a group trip with Taverna Trips. This travel guide will cover all of the best Tulum Instagram spots in Tulum, Mexico, including the best restaurants in Tulum, and the best things to do while visiting.
Click here for a list of current hotel deals in Tulum!
Best Tulum Instagram Spots
Follow That Dream Sign
Where is the Follow That Dream Sign Located?
It’s safe to say that this is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Tulum, Mexico. There is something about this random sign on the side of the road that just screams Instagram. The jungle-y palm trees definitely help as well! The Follow That Dream sign is located on the Tulum Beach Road, just in front of Lolita Lolita boutique.
Gran Cenote
There are so many cenotes in the Tulum area, but Gran Cenote (or Grand Cenote) is definitely the most popular. While I usually try to avoid the super popular spots, this is definitely a place that you won’t want to miss! Cameras are no longer allowed, but still make sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Entry into Gran Cenote costs 300 MXN (~$15 USD), so it one of the pricer cenotes in the area.
Raw Love
Not only is Raw Love one of my favorite restaurants in Tulum, but it is also one of the best Tulum Instagram spots. Raw Love is located just steps from the beach, but with the best jungle atmosphere. They’ve actually now open another outpost in Tulum Town.
The menu consists of only raw dishes, from smoothie bowls to raw Pad Thai. I have eaten here a number of times and have always been impressed by the quality of food!
Note: Raw Love accepts cash-only.
Macondo at Nomade
Nomade’s vegetarian restaurant, Macondo, channels all of the best Morocco vibes — from floor pillows to hanging lanterns. The food is on the pricier end, but absolutely delicious nonetheless. If dining here is out of your budget, consider stopping by for a drink instead.
I recommend visiting during the day to avoid having too many people in your photos. They are open for breakfast from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM and then again for lunch/dinner from 12:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
You can check out Macondo’s menu if you’re interested in dining here. I definitely recommend the Mexican hot chocolate.
Coba Mayan Ruins
The Coba Mayan Ruins are a must-see on any Tulum travel itinerary. Located about an hour outside of Tulum, these ruins are best visited in the early morning. While they are smaller than the famous, Chichen Itza ruins, there is still plenty to see and explore.
Be sure to apply sunscreen and bug spray, as you will be quite exposed as you make your way to the top of the largest ruin, sitting at 138 feet. It is well worth it, however, for the views from the top. I recommend visiting as early as possible, as the sun is quite strong during midday. You have the option of visiting on your own with a private car or a driver, or booking a tour to the ruins. You can book one of these excursions to visit the ruins.
It costs $65 MXN (~$4 USD) to enter the ruins. You can explore the area on foot, by bicycle, or be pedaled around.
Azulik
A visit to Azulik is truly a magical experience – whether you’re spending a night at the hotel, enjoying a yoga class in their incredible studio, or dining at one of their restaurants. Not to mention, their outdoor hammocks!
You can visit a number of the Azulik facilities, even if you are not a guest at the hotel. I definitely recommend booking a class at their yoga studio, followed by a delicious brunch. If you want to dine at Kin Toh, be sure to make a reservation well in advance. You’ll find plenty of the best Tulum Instagram spots throughout this property.
Matcha Mama
Matcha Mama is one of my favorite places to visit in Tulum, not to mention one of the best Instagram spots in Tulum. This roadside stand serves some of the best acai bowls in Tulum, topped with plenty of berries and granola.
I recommend stopping by in the afternoon, ordering an acai bowl and an iced matcha, and enjoying your meal on one of the swings.
Casa Malca – Pablo Escobar’s Estate
One of Pablo Escobar’s former mansions, Casa Malca, has been transformed into a luxury hotel – equipped with a giant hanging couch swing lined with wedding dresses. Definitely one of Tulum’s most Instagrammable places.
Note, if you would like to take a photo on the famous Casa Malca swings, you will need to spend a minimum of 500 MXN (~$23 USD) at the bar or restaurant. The cocktails are absolutely delicious, so I recommend splurging on a drink or two!
Tulum Swings
There are so many adorable swings in Tulum, that I couldn’t help snagging a photo at each of them. I have already covered the swings at Matcha Mama and Casa Malca in this guide, but there are plenty more!
A few of my other favorite swing Tulum Instagram spots are the swings at Coco Tulum and along the beach in front of Alma Tulum Hotel.
Habitas
Habitas is an eco-friendly resort in the heart of Tulum, located right on the beach. The resort boasts a ‘no footprint left behind’ mentality. Habitas’ restaurant, Moro, is open to the public. The restaurant itself is totally Instagrammable.
However, if you spend the $50 USD minimum at Moro, you are welcome to spend the rest of the day enjoying the resort’s facilities, including the beachfront infinity pool. Considering the steep price for a room here, this is a great deal!
Nomade
I’ve already raved about Nomade’s Moroccan style restaurant, Macondo, but that isn’t the only Instagram spot at Nomade. In front of Nomade’s outdoor restaurant, La Popular, you’ll find woven teepees on the beach. If these don’t scream “Instagram photoshoot,” then I’m not sure what does!
Cenote Choo Ha
There are so many incredible, photo-worthy cenotes in Tulum, but Cenote Choo-Ha is easily one of my favorites. Not only is choo-ha absolutely stunning, located deep in a cave, but it is far less busy than Tulum’s other cenotes. In fact, we didn’t see a single other person when we spent an hour or so swimming here.
Cenote choo-ha is actually located outside of Tulum, just a short drive from the Coba Ruins. I recommend visiting the Coba Ruins in the early morning, and then popping by Cenote Choo Ha to cool down and relax.
Ven a la Luz
It took me multiple trips to Tulum to finally shoot at this Instagram famous spot, and it was totally worth it. Located outside of Raw Love cafe in Tulum Beach, this spot is super cool. I recommend arriving by 7-7:30AM to avoid the crowds. If you come by during the day you’ll find a MASSIVE line to get your shot.
Azulik Uh May
Azulik Uh May is an interactive art exhibit located in the jungles surrounding Tulum. The exhibit is located 25km northeast of Tulum, approximately 30 minutes from the Tulum city center. I recommend combining a visit with a trip to the Coba Ruins and Cenote Choo-ha. Make sure to make a reservation ahead of time.
Azulik Uh May is open from noon to six daily, with the exception of Mondays when it is closed. You are not able to bring any cameras inside, but it is okay to take photos with your phone.
Getting to Tulum
The closest airport to Tulum, Mexico is the Cancun International Airport, which is located approximately an hour and a half away. You have a number of options to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport, including by bus, private car service, or taxi. It is super easy to get to Tulum. I have put together a full guide on how to get to Tulum from Cancun airport. Another option is to rent a car for the duration of your trip.
Where to Stay in Tulum
Budget: Amorcito Corazon Hotel y Hostel
The rooms are clean and the staff is super friendly and helpful. The property has both a downstairs common area and a rooftop with a small pool. Dorm beds start at $16 USD/night, while private rooms start at $50 USD/night, making it a great option for anyone traveling to Tulum solo or on a budget. Breakfast is included in the price of the room.
Budget: Mama’s Home Hostel
Mama’s Home hostel is a great option if you’re traveling solo and looking for a more social atmosphere. Dorm beds start at $16 per night and private rooms start around $65/night.
Mid-Range: Turquoise Petit
I recently spent 5 nights at Turquoise Petit and couldn’t recommend it more! At about $75 per night, it is a great mid-range option in La Valeta in Tulum Town. The rooms are small but cute, there are two pools, the best jungle vibes, and free breakfast. They also have free filtered water, complimentary bikes, and great security.
Mid-Range: Una Vida
Una Vida is a great, moderately priced accommodation option in Tulum. Located in Tulum center, Una Vida has a large, Instagrammable pool, minimilist decor, and a great location for exploring the city. Prices start around $90 USD/night.
Luxury: Be Tulum
Be Tulum is one of the top hotels in Tulum, but with it comes a steep price tag. A night at Be Tulum averages close to $1,000 USD/night, for what will definitely be an unforgettable experience.
Luxury: Nomade
Everything about Nomade is perfect, from the decor to their various restaurants. Not to mention, your room will be only steps from the beach! Rooms typically range from between $300 USD – $700 USD per night.
Luxury: Azulik
Azulik is a luxury, eco-friendly haven. With no wifi or electricity, this hotel boasts some of the most interesting looking rooms. Whether you stay here as a guest, or stop by for a meal, Azulik should definitely be added to your Tulum itinerary.
Click here for a list of hotel deals in Tulum!
Getting Around Tulum
Tulum by Taxi
Taxis in Tulum can be quite pricey, so it is important to make sure that you are getting the right price! On my recent trip to Tulum, I had a great experience with a local taxi driver, Juan de la Cruz. You can trust that he will provide a reasonable rate and a safe ride. You can reach Juan on WhatsApp at +52 984 137 7794. Note, Juan does not speak any English so all communications will need to be in Spanish.
Tulum by Bike
Biking around Tulum is probably my favorite way to get around, and a great option if you are visiting Tulum on a budget. Staying in the city center means biking 20-40 minutes to reach the beach resorts and restaurants in the hotel zone, where you’ll find many of the spots on this list. There is a bike path along the main road 109.
If you’re visiting Mexico, here are some other travel articles that you should check out:
- Tulum on a Budget
- Restaurants in Tulum
- Guanajuato City Guide
- Mexico City Guide
- Best Restaurants in San Miguel de Allende
Like what you read about the best Tulum Instagram spots? Be sure to PIN it for later!
