15 (Almost) Free Things to Do in Tulum
While Tulum is one of the most expensive places in Mexico, there are plenty of free adventures that will elevate your experience in this beautiful city. Here’s our list of cheap things to do in Tulum.
Having first visited Tulum in 2008, I have seen the beach town evolve from a quiet fishing village into a boho beach destination popular with hippies, yogis and digital nomads alike. Tulum may no longer be that quaint pueblo, but it has retained its unique flare and unrivaled charm.
Sadly, with Tulum’s growing popularity, prices have skyrocketed in this beach town. Don’t be surprised to find beach clubs charging US$50 for entry and restaurant menus with prices that rival those in the US. But while it can get painfully expensive here, it is still possible to explore Tulum on a budget.
I lived in the nearby Playa del Carmen for close to 2 years and have found many (almost) free and cheap things to do in Tulum. In this post, I will share them with you and practical tips on how to explore the town on a budget.
Table of Contents
- Best Free Things to Do in Tulum
- 1. Chill at Playa Paraiso
- 2. Explore Tulum’s Aldea Zama for Free
- 3. Bike to the Beach
- 4. Visit the Tulum Ruins
- 5. Munch on Street Food in Tulum Centro
- 6. Enjoy the Sunset at a Rooftop Bar
- 7. See Street Art in Tulum Pueblo
- 8. Pose for Snaps at Instagram-famous Spots
- 9. Check Out the Muyil Ruins
- 10. Dive into Tulum’s Nightlife at El Batey
- 11. Explore Kaan Luum Lagoon
- 12. Visit the Coba Archaeological Site
- 13. See Nesting Turtles at Xcacel Beach
- 14. Snorkel with Turtles in Akumal
- 15. Explore the Nearby City of Valladolid
- How to Travel Tulum on a Budget
- FAQs: Tulum on a Budget
Best Free Things to Do in Tulum
1. Chill at Playa Paraiso
Tulum is renowned for its breathtaking stretches of white-sand beaches, but many hotels and beach clubs in Tulum charge upwards of $40 per person for admission. Be aware that all Mexican beaches are public and by Mexican law, you are allowed to use any beach without paying a fee.
Playa Paraíso is one of the best public free beaches in Tulum. I used to come here often to enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean. There’s a small beach bar right at the entrance that rents out two lounge chairs and an umbrella for 320 MXN (around $17) per day.
If you prefer to keep it simple, just bring a beach towel and claim a spot on the sand for free. Another major perk is the ample free parking for bikes and scooters, making it easy to roll up and relax without extra costs. The only downside is that Playa Paraiso can get pretty crowded, particularly on the weekends when the locals are off from their busy work schedules.
2. Explore Tulum’s Aldea Zama for Free
You’ve probably seen those mesmerizing photos of turquoise sinkholes scattered across Instagram and Pinterest. These are cenotes, natural freshwater pools that dot the Yucatán Peninsula. Many of Tulum’s cenotes are privately owned and charge entrance fees ranging from 150 to 450 MXN ($10-$30) per person.
But here’s a little-known secret: there’s actually a free cenote just a short walk from downtown Tulum! Cenote Aldea Zama is the only cenote in Tulum that you can access for free. While it’s quite small, its crystal-clear waters make it a fantastic spot to cool off for free.
However, it’s a favorite for the locals and can get quite crowded, particularly on the weekends. Alternatively, you can plan your trip in the middle of the week for an exclusive experience.
3. Bike to the Beach
Pedaling along Tulum’s beach road is one of my favorite things to do here. As you pedal down the dedicated bike lane, you’ll get a sense of what Tulum was like decades ago.
Renting a bike in Tulum is both easy and affordable — some hotels provide them for free. If yours doesn’t, there are rental shops on nearly every corner. Bike rental prices in Tulum start from around 130 MXN / $8 per day. I recommend Ola Bikes; they offer reasonable rates and reliable service, including rescuing you in case of a breakdown.
The ride from Tulum Centro to the beach takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. But it can get extremely hot in the afternoons, so make sure to set out early, carry plenty of water, and pack a few snacks to fuel your journey.
4. Visit the Tulum Ruins
Perched atop a dramatic 40-foot cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Tulum Ruins are one of Mexico’s most beautiful archaeological sites. Having explored many natural wonders in Mexico, I can confidently say that few match the sheer beauty of Tulum’s setting. As you stand with the imposing El Castillo behind you, it’s easy to picture the bustling trade that once took place here in the past.
Compared to other ancient ruins, admission is cheap here: 95 MXN (around $6). But they have added a few additional fees and you have to pay these fees at separate booths. These include; a 60 MXN (about $4) bracelet to access Tulum National Park and an optional 50 MXN (about $3) shuttle ride from the parking lot. If you’re bringing an SLR camera, expect to pay 40 MXN (about $2.50) for a photography permit. Be sure to carry exact cash in pesos, as change can be scarce — as of May 2025, credit cards are now accepted. Guided tours cost extra but make the experience better.
Like most attractions across the town, the ruins tend to be busier on the weekends. That may be down to the fact that they charge no admission for Mexican locals on Sundays. If you dread crowds or want an exclusive experience, plan your trip in the middle of the week.
5. Munch on Street Food in Tulum Centro
Tulum has a surprisingly good range of street food on offer. Many of the food stalls are located in Tulum Centro, just right outside the OXXO convenience store at the intersection of Highway 307 and Calle Geminis Sur. The area bustles with countless food trucks selling some of the best tacos you’ll ever have.
We absolutely love the tacos in this very area and we found ourselves coming back here a couple of times. Most food trucks in the area charge just 15-20 MXN (around $0.75 to $1) per taco. You can feast on a plate of three or four for roughly 60 MXN ($3) or less—making it one of the best budget-friendly dining experiences in town. Read my guide on Tulum’s restaurants.
6. Enjoy the Sunset at a Rooftop Bar
Unwinding at a rooftop bar in Tulum as the sun dips below the horizon is an experience you won’t want to miss. Tulum Centro is dotted with stylish rooftop bars, many featuring pools and offering a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere. Surprisingly, even during peak season, these spots remain relatively uncrowded, making them the ideal start to a wonderful night in Tulum.
All you have to do is buy a cocktail or snacks then sink into a plush lounge chair and soak in the stunning views. If you’re looking for a standout option, Casa Vegana is a personal favorite. It’s one of the most reasonably-priced rooftops in Tulum and is far more affordable than the upscale restaurants on the beach.
7. See Street Art in Tulum Pueblo
I’ve always taken a liking to street art, and whenever the opportunity arises, we make sure to explore the murals in cities we visit. The town’s street art scene exploded in 2014 as part of an urban initiative designed to transform the town’s many gray spaces.
Spearheaded by Tinasah, a local collective, the project aimed to elevate Tulum as the street art capital of Mexico. The collective not only beautifies the area but also promotes meaningful dialogue around social integration and environmental consciousness.
As you wander through Tulum Pueblo, you’ll notice that many murals depict scenes inspired by Mayan culture, local legends, and daily life in the area. Each piece invites you to pause, reflect, and take in the artistic storytelling that breathes life into the town’s streets.
8. Pose for Snaps at Instagram-famous Spots
For some years now, Tulum has become very popular with Gen Zs, who are constantly snapping pretty pics for their Insta. Tulum offers an abundance of Instagrammable locations, particularly in the Hotel Zone. While this area is often pricey, seeing the famous spots is a budget-friendly activity because most of these picturesque spots are free to access.
For instance, the “Follow that Dream” sign, which sits right by the Lolita & Lolita shop, has made several rounds on Instagram. This famous spot is completely free to access and most people bike there for their viral shot. Another spot is the striking “Come to the Light” structure found in the Ahau Sculpture Park. Entry fee of just MXN 60 (US$3). Consider a guided tour if you don’t mind paying a bit more.
9. Check Out the Muyil Ruins
If you’re looking for a cheaper and quieter alternative to the bustling Tulum Ruins, a short drive will take you to the Muyil Ruins. These are located near the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve just off Hwy 307. Initially known as Chunyaxché, this ancient city stretches over 38 hectares of lush jungle, with towering temples and a tranquil atmosphere.
The real highlight is the sacbé (ancient road) that leads you through the jungle. It eventually transitions into a boardwalk that winds through a mangrove forest, offering glimpses of the surrounding nature.
At the end of the path, you’ll reach a precarious tower with an incredible view of the Muyil Lagoon. Here, you’ll enjoy the vibrant greens of the Sian Ka’an Reserve and the sparkling blue Caribbean in the distance. The ruins charge an admission of 65 MXN (around $3.5) and an additional 50 MXN (around $2.75) to venture along the forest path. If budget allows, a guided tour is a good idea.
10. Dive into Tulum’s Nightlife at El Batey
To get a feel of Tulum’s nightlife without breaking the bank, head to El Batey, Tulum’s beloved mojito bar. Here, the air is filled with infectious Latin jazz, as the sound of a lively trumpet and rhythmic African drums spill out onto the street. This iconic spot, marked by a brightly-painted, psychedelic VW bug, attracts a vibrant mix of locals and travelers alike. In the evenings, the open-air courtyard brims with energy.
Unlike most beach clubs in the beach zone which charge around US$50 for admission, El Batey is free to access. Also, their drinks are reasonably priced—especially the famous mojitos which go for around 100 MXN (about $5) each. Be sure to bring cash in pesos, though, as they don’t accept credit cards.
11. Explore Kaan Luum Lagoon
Just a 15-minute drive from Tulum pueblo lies one of the best-kept secrets of Tulum: Laguna Kaan Luum or Kaan Luum Lagoon. It’s an absolutely stunning lagoon with crystal clear waters that shimmer in different shades of blue: from sapphire to light cobalt to dark indigo. From above, it looks like a perfect circle of cerulean waters, surrounded by an endless sea of green.
This little-known spot has shallow spearmint waters reminiscent of the Maldives and glorious swings and hammocks to spend the afternoon chilling away. It’s a great place to escape from the crowds and cool off in crystal clear waters that aren’t affected by the Tulum seaweed problem. Surprisingly, this oasis has remained unknown to foreign visitors and it’s a secret whispered among locals.
The locale charges a modest 60 MXN (around $3.50), making it one of the cheapest destinations in Tulum. You can also rent a kayak from the kiosk that sells drinks. Currently they charge 150 MXN (US$7.50)/hour for a two-person kayak rental. If you’re up for it, a guided tour makes it more enjoyable. Read my guide about the Kaan Luum Lagoon.
12. Visit the Coba Archaeological Site
Nestled deep within the lush rainforest, the Coba Ruins are a more rugged and less crowded alternative to Tulum ruins. This vast ancient Mayan city dwarfs the more compact Tulum ruins and is home to Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in Quintana Roo. Unlike other archaeological sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, Coba still retains an air of mystery, with many of its pyramids only partially excavated.
You can reach the ruins by driving inland for 45 minutes along the QROO 109. For a seamless experience, you can take the Ado or Mayab buses that run regular services to the ruins. Bus tickets go for around 50 MXN ($3). Upon arrival, you’ll pay an entrance fee of 80 MXN (about $5) per person, with an additional 50 MXN ($3 USD) for parking if you’re driving. Consider joining a tour if you don’t mind the extra cost. Read my guide on the Coba Archaeological Site.
13. See Nesting Turtles at Xcacel Beach
Just a short drive north of Tulum lies Xcacel Beach, home to the picturesque Xcacel-Xcacelito sea turtle sanctuary. Every year, thousands of white and loggerhead turtles come to the beach to nest. Their annual nesting and spawning season runs from May to November. If you’re coming in October, don’t miss the annual turtle festival that takes place in Xcacel (one of the best times to visit Tulum).
Xcacel also offers a tranquil escape from the busier beaches in Tulum, and getting there is simple. You can take a colectivo from Tulum town for just 30 MXN (around $1.5). Entry to this protected paradise costs only 81 MXN (about $4), making it an affordable yet unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
14. Snorkel with Turtles in Akumal
If you’re seeking a unique wildlife experience, drive further north for around 5 minutes to the stunning Akumal Beach. Thanks to the calm, reef-protected waters and abundant seagrass, both loggerhead and green sea turtles can be spotted gliding gracefully through the bay year-round.
If you’re hoping to snorkel on your own, think again—regulations now require all visitors to join a guided tour. For around 500 MXN ($25) per person, small groups are led by a guide into a designated reserve area just off the beach. However, if you come with your snorkeling gear, you can further slash down the cost of the tour. Consider a guided tour if you’re fine paying a little more for the experience.
15. Explore the Nearby City of Valladolid
For a deep dive into Mexican culture without veering too far from Tulum, Valladolid is a fantastic choice. It’s cheap to get there by bus (ADO bus departs hourly and costs around $13) and the prices in Vallodolid are much more reasonable than that in Tulum.
Located about 1.5 hours from Tulum, this charming colonial town is one of Mexico’s pueblos mágicos (magical towns). Valladolid has a beautiful old town lined with cobblestoned streets, pastel-colored houses and colonial buildings converted into art galleries or indie boutiques. Refer to my list of things to do in Valladolid.
Start by strolling along the Calzada de los Frailes, the most photogenic street in Valladolid. Be sure to stop at Idilio Folklore Cervecero, a stylish restaurant that offers a small museum and beer tasting sessions. Meals here range between $4-10 but they also serve some of the best craft beer in the country. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out all the activities and tours in Valladolid here.
How to Travel Tulum on a Budget
Exploring Tulum on a budget is totally doable if you know where to look. Here are some practical tips on how to travel Tulum on a budget;
Stay in Tulum Centro
Finding accommodation options within your budget is the first step to achieving your goal. Hotels in Tulum Centro are significantly more affordable, typically costing between $30 and $100 per night. In contrast, hotels in the beach area often start at a staggering $565 per night.
Staying in Centro also means you’ll enjoy a more local and authentic experience, with an abundance of local restaurants and shops. For those looking to stretch their budget even further, hostels in Centro can cost as little as $10 per night. Read my guide on where to stay in Tulum.
Get Around Town Using Colectivos
Getting around Tulum on a budget requires some strategic planning, as transportation costs can quickly add up. Fortunately, colectivos offer an affordable and efficient alternative. These shared vans function like local buses, providing a safe and frequent service along Tulum’s main roads.
They’re an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore beyond the town center. For instance, a colectivo ride to Akumal costs just 40 MXN (about $2). These are huge savings if you compare them to the 600-MXN ($32) taxi fare for the same journey.
Eat Only at Local Joints
Dining in Tulum on a budget is very doable with some smart research. Check out my guide to the best places to eat in Tulum. You can get tasty Mexican food in simple places like Taqueria La Chiapaneca, without burning a hole in your pocket.
Do Your Own Cooking
If you’re looking to save money, cooking your meals is the way to go. There are several grocery stores which sell fresh produce ranging from fruits and vegetables to meats and bread.
Super Aki Tulum is the largest and most popular in the city. For example, you can grab a loaf of fresh white bread for just 3.75 MXN ($0.37). Milk goes for 6.65 MXN ($0.21) per quarter liter, and rice for 3.01 MXN ($0.17) per 100 grams.
FAQs: Tulum on a Budget
How Much Money Do You Need Per Day in Tulum?
When planning your daily expenses for a trip to Tulum, a budget of $65 per day per person is a reasonable estimate. However, it is worth noting that Tulum offers a wide range of experiences, so your actual expenses will depend on your preferences.
Nevertheless, the quoted budget is sufficient for those eager to cut costs down. It typically covers meals, getting around, activities, and other small costs like tipping.
Is it Better to Have USD or Pesos in Tulum?
When visiting Tulum, it’s generally a good idea to carry Mexican pesos instead of (USD). While US dollars are widely accepted across most touristy spots, paying with pesos will give you the best value. Also, paying in pesos guarantees you’ll receive the correct change, as there have been reports of service workers pocketing 20% or more when converting from dollars.
ATMs are easy to find around Tulum and many of them allow you to withdraw in pesos. However, be mindful of hefty fees—some ATMs, like those at the airport, can charge up to $19 per transaction.
How Much Should I Tip in Tulum?
It’s always customary to tip when traveling in Tulum and Mexico in general. Plan around 10-15% of the total bill for services in restaurants or during tours. It’s also worth noting that most restaurants in touristy spots include a service charge in the billing. For other services like housekeeping or spa treatments, tipping 50-100 pesos ($3-6) should be enough.
Should I Skip Insurance to Save on My Tulum Trip?
I totally get it — when you’re trying to travel on a budget, it’s tempting to cut corners wherever you can. But skipping travel insurance? That’s one area I don’t recommend saving on. Tulum might be paradise, but accidents, lost luggage, or unexpected illnesses can happen anywhere — especially when you’re biking to the beach or snorkeling cenotes.
Plus, some cenotes, tour companies, or scooter rentals require proof of insurance — or they’ll happily sell you overpriced coverage on the spot. Long story short: better safe than sorry. I always recommend having coverage for peace of mind, especially in Mexico.
👉 Want to know which plans are worth it? I break it all down in my guide to Mexico travel insurance. Check it out before you book!
What’s the Best Time to Find Cheap Flights to Tulum?
If you’re hunting for a flight deal (and honestly, who isn’t?), timing is everything. In general, the cheapest months to fly to Tulum — well, technically Cancun Airport (CUN), the closest airport — are September, October, and early November. It’s shoulder season, so you’ll dodge both the big crowds and sky-high airfare.
💡 Pro Tip: Use flight trackers like Skyscanner or Google Flights and set alerts about 2-3 months ahead. I’ve snagged round-trip flights from the US for as low as $250 during this window.
Also, flying mid-week — think Tuesday or Wednesday — almost always scores you a better price. Bonus: less chaotic airport vibes.
Further Reading on Tulum
While Tulum is one of the most expensive cities in Mexico, there are several adventures that cost little to nothing. I hope you find our list of free (cheap) things to do in Tulum useful. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions.
For those who are planning to see more of the town, check out other articles I’ve written on Tulum:
- 20 Cool Tulum Treehouses You Can Actually Stay in!
- 20 Best Beachfront Hotels in Tulum
- Where to Stay in Tulum
- Is Tulum Safe to Visit
- Tulum Travel Guide
- Tulum Itinerary Ideas
- Best Time to Visit Tulum
- My Guide to Ek Balam Ruins
- My Guide to Coba Ruins
- My Guide to Cenote Calavera
- My Guide to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
- How to Get from Cancun to Tulum
- How to Avoid the Tulum Seaweed Problem
- 20 Day Trips from Tulum
- Tulum Packing List
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!
