Alternative Tulum Travel Guide

December 17, 2024

Welcome to our Alternative Tulum Travel Guide, curated with love by our local team. Since opening Psylo flagship boutique Tulum in 2016, we’ve been lucky to call this vibrant destination home. Over the years, we’ve immersed ourselves in Tulum’s unique blend of lush nature, rich culture, and thriving creative scene. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or visiting for the first time, this guide offers a fresh take on experiencing Tulum beyond the ordinary. From secret cenotes and offbeat adventures to local festivals and wellness spots, let us take you off the beaten path to discover the magic of Tulum.

Best Parties & Festivals in Tulum

Tulum’s nightlife is as eclectic as its natural beauty, offering something for every vibe seeker; from underground beats to mystical gatherings. Here are some of the must-experience parties and festivals that make Tulum’s nightlife unforgettable:

Zamna Festival

Afterlife at Zamna Tulum

Above: Afterlife at Zamna Tulum

Zamna is a globally renowned electronic music festival set amidst lush jungle surroundings. With world-class DJs and immersive visuals, It is a bucket-list event for dance music lovers.

Cenote Buuts Ha

Party with a twist - this hidden gem combines the charm of a natural cenote with intimate music events. Expect an unforgettable night surrounded by crystal-clear waters and a canopy of stars.

Bestiario

This downtown Tulum venue is best for an after-party.

Mayan Warrior

Mayan Warrior Tulum party

One of Burning Man’s most famous art cars, this is a spectacular fusion of music, art, and technology. Mayan Warrior events draw inspiration from Tulum’s ancient Mayan roots while offering cutting-edge festival experiences.

Casa Jaguar / Jagua

Known for its jungle-chic aesthetic, Casa Jaguar hosts legendary Thursday night parties. Come for the cocktails, stay for the electrifying beats and sultry vibes.

Rosa Negra

This intimate venue is a favourite for those who love underground music and a close-knit party atmosphere. Think dim lighting, great tunes, and endless dancing.

Jitanu

A rising star on Tulum’s party circuit, Jitanu offers immersive experiences that combine soundscapes, fire shows, and an electric crowd. Perfect for adventurous spirits.

Let Tulum’s party scene immerse you - whether you’re dancing under the moonlight or soaking in the rhythm of its cultural beats.

Tulum’s Best Bars & Beach Clubs

party at Papaya Playa Project, Tulum

Above: party at Papaya Playa Project, Tulum

Tulum’s social scene extends beyond festivals lively bars and chic beach clubs. Batey is a go-to for refreshing mojitos and vibrant energy, while La Pizzine offers a relaxed, charming atmosphere. La Guarida blends bohemian vibes with cosy seating, perfect for unwinding. For beachfront indulgence, the Vagalume, Nomade, Panamera and Papaya Playa Project deliver ocean views, creative cocktails, and unforgettable parties under the stars. UMI also does sunset parties on weekends. Neek Tulum offers a chic yet laid-back experience for sipping and socialising. While at Raum Gallery you’ll find traditional Ramen, an artistic setting, great cocktails, DJs and even a rooftop. Whether you're soaking in sunsets or dancing the night away, Tulum’s bars and clubs have it all.

Neek Tulum

Above: Neek Tulum

Gastronomy Tips for Tulum

Tulum’s culinary scene blends vibrant local flavours with international influences. For authentic flavours, head to Negro Huitlacoxe. For seafood, check out Estrada. Burrito Amor serves healthy burritos wrapped in banana leaves, perfect for on-the-go adventurers. La Pebeta offers a gourmet twist on Argentinian street food, while Pan & Vino Tulum charms with Italian classics made with fresh ingredients. For organic breakfasts and great coffee, head to the trending Mera Caffe. Visit our friends at Todo Pita for a fusion of Middle Eastern cuisine with Mexican flavours. For fine dining, Canova and Arca deliver creative dishes inspired by Mediterranean and local cuisines. Mestiza reimagines traditional Mexican recipes, and La Negra Tomasa pairs bold flavours with live music and a lively atmosphere. At Palma Central, you’ll find a lively outdoor food truck and a Salasa night every Tuesday. Tulum’s gastronomy promises an unforgettable feast for all tastes.

Tulum’s Best Shopping

Models wearing Tulum clothing at the entrance to our Psylo Tulum Beach Road boutique

Above: our Psylo flagship boutique on Tulum’s Beach Road.

Tulum’s shopping scene reflects its bohemian spirit and love for artisan craftsmanship, offering unique finds you won’t see anywhere else. At Psylo, you’ll find edgy, handcrafted clothing and accessories that embody a fusion of urban style and sustainable design. Tuluminati offers bold, locally inspired clothing - perfect for those seeking statement fashion with a touch of mysticism. For a luxurious and ethereal shopping experience, Caravana presents timeless designs rooted in Mayan tradition, crafted with flowing fabrics and earthy tones. Each shop reflects Tulum’s creative spirit and commitment to artisanal craftsmanship.

Best Fitness, Yoga & Wellness in Tulum

Ikal Tulum

Above: Ikal, Tulum

Tulum is a wellness haven offering unique ways to rejuvenate body and mind. Train at the open-air Tulum Jungle Gym with equipment crafted from wood and stone, or try Sup Yoga Tulum, blending paddleboarding with yoga on tranquil waters. Holistika Tulum offers yoga, healing therapies, and a creative jungle retreat, while TAO combines yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. For beachfront mindfulness, Ikal hosts yoga and sound healing under palm trees, and Yaan Healing Sanctuary provides luxurious spa experiences rooted in the Mayan tradition. Tulum’s wellness culture promises a journey to balance and tranquillity.

Things To Do in Tulum: Art, Adventures & Nature Gems

Templo Dios del Viento (God of Winds Temple) guarding Tulum's sea entrance bay (photo by Martin Falbisoner via Wikimedia)

Above: Templo Dios del Viento (God of Winds Temple) guarding Tulum's sea entrance bay (photo by Martin Falbisoner via Wikimedia)

Tulum is a paradise for cultural, adventurers and nature lovers alike, blending history, ecological architecture, art, stunning landscapes, and thrilling experiences. Explore the iconic Ruinas de Tulum, an ancient Mayan city perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean. For a current cultural experience, head to Azulik City of Art, an ecological and artistic project that will expand your mind. For cenote enthusiasts, Dos Ojos and Calavera offer unique diving and cliff-jumping opportunities, while Cenote Corazon, Atik and Cenote Escondido promise tranquil swims. The Sian Ka’an Reserve, a UNESCO site, is a pristine haven for wildlife and mangroves, perfect for connecting with untouched nature. For a mix of beach and cenote fun, visit Caleta Tankah, or enjoy paddling at the serene Laguna Kan Lum and Nopalitos Lagoon. Jungle adventures at Jungla Maya bring zip lines, rappelling, and lush trails into the mix. Tulum’s cultural and natural wonders are a playground for unforgettable experiences.

Azulik Tulum City of Art

Above: Azulik Tulum City of Art

More Things to Do Around Tulum

sunrise in Bacalar, Mexico (photo by Fernando Gutierrez via Unsplash)

Above: sunrise in Bacalar, Mexico (photo by Fernando Gutierrez via Unsplash)

Beyond Tulum lie more natural wonders waiting to be explored. The stunning Laguna de Bacalar, often called the “Lake of Seven Colors”, mesmerises with its dazzling blue hues and serene atmosphere. For island adventures, head to Holbox, a car-free paradise with laid-back vibes, vibrant marine life, and picturesque beaches. Cozumel offers world-class snorkelling and diving, with its vibrant coral reefs teeming with underwater life. Similarly, Isla Mujeres enchants visitors with its turquoise waters, charming streets, and hidden beaches. For those seeking a quieter coastal escape, Mahahual delivers a slice of Caribbean tranquillity, complete with pristine shores and a relaxed pace. Each destination offers its unique charm, making them perfect day trips or overnight getaways from Tulum.

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