Cancun vs. Tulum – Which Should You Visit Next?

Cancun or Tulum are both great vacation spots, but choosing between them is like choosing between two tacos. Each one is made to order with its own flavor. Both destinations offer stunning Caribbean coastlines along Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, but cater to different tastes, preferences and budgets.

Micki and I love Cancun and Tulum for different reasons. While both offer something unique, we’ve found that we enjoyed our time in each place more once we defined what exactly we were looking for and matched it to our moods and expectations before arriving in Mexico.

Cancun or Tulum? Which is the best vacation destination for you?

Though it can be an easy answer for those who’ve had the good fortune of visiting each destination previously, the decision essentially boils down to what features you’re looking for in a getaway as well as your budget, expectations, ease of arrival and even your timelines.

So, whether you’re in for vibrant nightlife and luxury resorts or a more serene getaway close to nature and ancient ruins, this guide will hopefully help you decide which destination suits you best.

Cancun – A vibrant nightlife and modern luxury

Cancun, a resort town well-known for its Spring Break crowds, is located on the Yucatan Peninsula’s northeastern coast. The Hotel Zone, a long beachfront strip of luxury hotels, nightclubs and restaurants all facing the Caribbean Sea, is famous for its high-end hotels. Cancun is a destination for travelers looking for a luxury, all-inclusive holiday with modern amenities.

Why Choose Cancun for Your Vacation?

• Vibrant Nightlife: Cancun’s nightclubs and bars offer an electrifying atmosphere with world-class DJs and parties that last until dawn.
• All-Inclusive Resorts:The city is well-known for its wide range of all-inclusive hotels that cater to all types of travelers, from families and partygoers to couples seeking romance.
• Shopping and DiningCancun offers a wide range of shopping malls and boutiques, as well as dining options for those who want to enjoy urban conveniences at the beach.
• Activities and ExcursionsCancun is not just about the beach. It offers a variety of activities like golfing, snorkeling or scuba-diving. You can also visit nearby Mayan ruin sites such as Chichen Itza.

Tulum: Bohemian Charm meets Ancient History

A couple of hours south of Cancun, Tulum presents a contrasting vibe that’s more laid-back and immersed in nature. Tulum is a bohemian oasis, known for its eco boutique hotels. It also has yoga retreats and organic cafes. Its beach, dotted with palms trees and rustic cabanas with ancient Mayan ruin overlooking the sea is unique.

Why Choose Tulum Tulum?

• Eco-Chic Lifestyle: Tulum’s accommodations tend to be designed more in harmony with nature, often offering a sustainable and intimate experience.
• Cultural Richness:The town is near the Tulum Ruins as well as Coba.
• Natural Wonders: From the nearby stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Tulum is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers.
• Relaxation and WellnessTulum, with its focus on wellness, tends to attract people who want to relax by doing yoga, meditation, or spa treatments that use natural, local ingredients.

Cancun has many things to do

Cancun has a wide range of activities, from adventure tours to spas. Here’s a few of our favorites:

Playa DelfinesIt is known for its long stretches of sand with turquoise water. This makes it ideal for sunbathing, swimming and even surfing. For those who are interested in marine life the Interactive AquariumCancun visitors can interact with sharks, dolphins and tropical fish.

Cancun is a hub of historical and natural wonders. The Mayan Ruins at El ReyIn the heart of Hotel Zone, you can get a glimpse of ancient civilization. For a day-trip, the majestic Chichen ItzaThe Mayan culture, architecture, and history are all within reach.

Cenotes such as Cenote k Kil are perfect for nature lovers, with their crystal-clear water, which is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Adventure parks like Xcaret The following are some examples of how to get started: Xel-HáZip lines, river tubing and cultural shows are all thrilling activities that combine the beauty and thrills of nature.

We also love to visit Isla MujeresTake a group out for the day. catamaran cruiseOver to it would make a great way to travel to and from the Island.

Tulum: Things to Do

Tulum’s charm lies in its ability to blend culture, history, and natural beauty into a serene and enriching experience.

You can also find out more about the following: Tulum Ruins are the town’s most iconic attraction, perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. These ruins provide breathtaking views as well as the opportunity to explore the remains of a once thriving Mayan port.

Beach lovers will find a slice of paradise in Playa ParaísoCancun is known for its clear, calm water and powdery white sand. It provides a more relaxed atmosphere. If you want to have a unique experience in Cancun, then the Sian Ka’an Biosphere ReserveThe trip offers the chance to explore unspoiled landscapes such as beaches, coral reefs and jungles that are teeming full of wildlife.

Tulum is also known for its cenotes – natural sinkholes that are filled with freshwater. Cenote Dos OjosWith its clear, turquoise water and intricate cave system, is a favorite spot for snorkeling, diving and other water sports. We enjoyed our first trip to Cenote Dos OjosFew years ago. These natural pools provide a cool retreat from the heat, and also give a glimpse into the geological wonders on the Yucatan Peninsula. Locally, there’s also Cenote Sac ActunYou can also find out more about the following: Gran CenoteThere are many places that are close to Tulum.

The town itself is a heaven for foodies and wellness seekers. Tulum’s culinary scene is diverse, focusing on fresh, local ingredients and innovative dishes. Many restaurants provide outdoor seating for diners to enjoy the outdoors. Yoga studios, wellness retreats and other yoga-related servicesTulum is a natural paradise that promotes relaxation and mindfulness.

Making the decision: Cancun or Tulum?

Cancun vs Tulum: It all boils down to your vacation style.

Cancun has everything for everyone.

• Crave the excitement of a bustling city’s nightlife and entertainment.
• You prefer the convenience and luxury that comes with large, all-inclusive hotels.
• Enjoy the convenience of having a wide range of dining and shopping options right at their doorstep.
• You are looking for a vacation that offers a combination of relaxation and adventure.
• Are ok with being near resort properties along the beaches.
• Want to be in their resort within 20 mins of landing.

Tulum suits travelers:

• Want a quieter, more serene setting that’s close to nature.
• Enjoy the charm of eco-friendly, small-scale accommodations.
• You want to have a cultural experience. Explore ancient ruins, and engage with local traditions.
• Travelers who value sustainability and wellness in their travel experience.
• Enjoy long stretches with minimal resorts.
• They are willing to drive longer distances to reach their destination.

More to think about…

Both Cancun and Tulum are gateways to Mexico’s stunning Caribbean coast, but cater to distinct tastes and experiences. Cancun’s allure lies in its vibrant nightlife, luxurious amenities, and city convenience, making it a perfect choice for those who seek an energetic and pampered vacation.

Tulum, meanwhile, is a small city that offers ruins, cenotes, and natural beauty. It’s also eco-friendly and wellness-oriented.

You may also want to consider the memories you would like to create. Do you want to party the night away in the epitome resort living with dozens and dozens of restaurants all within a few blocks? Or do you prefer to wake up to the sound of the waves in a beachfront cabin, ready to explore a Mayan ruin or the depths of the cenote?

All this isn’t to say that you can’t find relaxation and tranquility in Cancun or a few wild parties in Tulum. Each location has its share of both, but Cancun’s tourist roots stretch farther back so in general, the hotels, restaurants and attractions cater to a larger, more boisterous crowd. Tulum’s future is still uncertain, but the trend in building and design is moving towards a more eco-friendly style.

Tulum: Where to Stay

We’ve stayed in small hotels, condos and even more traditional all-inclusive resorts in and around Tulum over the years. Here’s a few personal favorites we’ve stayed at or had friends and family rave about.

Kanan Tulum Resort and Spa – Gorgeous bohemian chic beachside resort

La Zebra Boutique Hotel – Smaller upscale boutique hotel on the beach

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa – One of the larger more traditional all-inclusive hotels in Tulum

Copal Tulum Hotel – Tons of greenery and nice rooms right in town

Hotel Posada 06 Tulum – I stayed here a few years ago with Micki and the kids and had a great time. Quiet hotel in town close to shops and restaurants

Cancun Hotels: Where to Stay?

We’ve done plenty of all-inclusives when staying in Cancun though we have stayed in a few condos and even a normal hotel when we had an early flight the next day. HZ refers the Hotel Zone, which runs from north to south outside the main Cancun city.

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun – A personal favorite from when we stayed here last! The northern end of Hotel Zone has a great spa and a calm oceanfront.

Paradisus Cancun – Center of HZ with great views, tons of restaurants/nightlife and nice beachfront

The Westin Resort & Spa Cancun – Quieter location on south side of HZ giving you a nice tropical feel

Sun Palace – Couples only boutique retreat on the south of HZ

Ambiance Suites Cancun – Clean in town hotel great for a cheap overnight stay when needed

How to Get There

It is easy to get to Cancun and Tulum.

Cancun

Cancun is a tourist destination that has been popular for decades. The international airport, which is a busy and popular one, is only 20 minutes from the Hotel Zone. Cancun is a popular destination for many North American, South American, and European countries. Flights are usually cheap and plentiful. Local buses and taxis can be jumped on easily and there are ride-sharing sites like Uber.

Tulum

Tulum has recently opened its own international airport (Tulum Airport, Felipe Carrillo Puerto Airport).| Felipe Carrillo Puerto Airport). There are currently fewer flights landing in Tulum than in Cancun. If you choose Tulum, be aware that you may have to land at Cancun Airport and take a shuttle or bus (approximately two hours from Cancun).

There’s a train route under construction from Cancun to Tulum, called the Tren Maya, which is sometimes referred to as the Mayan Train or Maya Train. Current projections indicate that the Cancun – Tulum route should be open by June 2024, but there’s a solid possibility of delays, so make sure it’s running if you plan to use it to get down to Tulum for your stay.

Taxis can be found easily enough collectivos For longer trips, (small van-like buses) are the norm. Both cities have ADO buses for long distances that can take you anywhere on the peninsula, including Belize and central Mexico.

Cancun or Tulum: Both are Awesome

Cancun or Tulum are both great destinations for a memorable vacation. Riviera Maya. We’ve had amazing experiences in both places both with our kids and without and tend to call the Riviera Maya our unofficial second home. We’re excited to see how the new international airport in Tulum and the new Yucatan train changes both the landscape and the possibilities in the region. but time will tell if the train helps or hinders the areas it’s opening up.

In either case, you can’t go wrong with either location as the beaches are beautiful, the food is delicious and the people are welcoming.