Tulum is one Mexico’s most popular honeymoon destinations—and for good reason. Beyond the white sand beaches and oceanfront hotels, this tropical paradise abounds with history, culture and natural splendor. The beaches are a huge draw, and it’s your honeymoon, so you’ll probably be splitting most of your time between getting lazy by the water and getting busy in bed. But when you come up for air, there are some great activities to make the most of your post-wedding trip to Tulum.
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El Gran Cenote
Gran Cenote, Tulum, Mexico
Of the estimated 6,000 cenotes (underground fresh water caves, or sinkholes) in the Yucatan, Gran Cenote stands out as one of the most magical. Located outside of Tulum, on the highway to Coba, this underground cave system is famed for snorkeling and scuba diving. Expect crystal clear waters, stalactites, stalagmites, fish, turtles and bats (it’s a cave after all).
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Ruinas Mayas de Tulum
Ruins Of Tulum, Tulum, Mexico
While Chichen Itza may be the most famous of the Mayan ruins, if you’re looking for something a bit more local, a visit to the Tulum Ruins won’t disappoint. Rent a bike and take the 20-minute ride north to the ruins and ecological park. After your history lesson, you can can cool off at the beach below the ruins. Just remember that it gets busy, so go early if you want to avoid crowds.
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Beach near Mezzanine Tulum
Mezzanine Hotel Tulum, Tulum, Mexico
On your ride back from the ruins, be sure to stop by the pristine beach drag in front of Mezzanine Tulum. In a town renowned for stunning beaches, this hidden gem holds its own. Powder soft sand and turquoise water are only part of its appeal. This semi-private oasis is transcendently relaxing—particularly after an AM of touring the ruins (and potentially batting crowds). If you’re feeling parched, stroll up to hotel for a stiff margarita and a kick ass view.
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Yaan Wellness
Yäan Wellness, Tulum, Mexico
Tulum’s poshest spa, Yaan Wellness is the place to get pampered. Book an appointment for one of the authentic Mayan treatments, like the Sobada Maya or Sacred Hot Stone Therapy. Most treatments even include an hour in the healing waters (sauna, steam room, hot and cold pools). If you’re there at the right time, you can even take part in an Open Moon Temazcal ceremony, in the spa’s own authentic sweat lodge, where you’ll shvitz out half your water-weight and emerged spiritually reborn (and thirsty as a motherfucker, we assume).
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Sian Ka’an Biosphere
Biosphere Reserve, Tulum, Mexico
Your new bride aside, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is the most breathtaking sight in all of Tulum. While you could explore the tranquil waters on your own, if your girl likes yoga—or just a good Insta—she will want to do a stand up paddleboard class. Book through SUP Yoga Tulum. The half day package includes transport to and from the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, free paddle time to explore and a paddleboard yoga class. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the class, otherwise just tell ’em you want to take yourself around the lagoon, while she Downward Dogs. Plenty of guys skip out on yoga, so they’re used to it.
