Most people come to Tulum for the obvious: turquoise water, white-sand beaches, and Instagram-perfect ruins. But the real magic? It’s often hidden just beyond the tourist trail.
If you’re planning a trip to Tulum in 2025, here are 7 unforgettable experiences that go beyond the usual — and one beachfront gem that might just be the highlight of your stay.
1. Visit a Secret Cenote Without the Crowds
Skip the popular ones like Gran Cenote and explore lesser-known spots like Cenote Escondido or Cenote Cristal. You’ll find quiet waters surrounded by jungle, perfect for a peaceful swim or snorkeling in complete silence.
2. Paddleboard at Sunrise in Sian Ka’an
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most breathtaking natural areas near Tulum. Book a guided paddleboard tour at dawn — no crowds, no noise, just you and nature waking up.
3. Take a Mayan Clay Ritual on the Beach
More than a spa treatment, this is a spiritual and physical cleansing. Covered in mineral-rich clay, you’ll stand by the ocean as a local guide leads a ritual rooted in ancient traditions. It’s grounding, healing, and unforgettable.
4. Dine in a Jungle Treehouse
Yes, you read that right. Restaurants like Kin Toh offer dining experiences high up in the treetops, blending gourmet cuisine with views of the jungle canopy. It’s not just a meal — it’s a memory.
5. Join a Beach Clean-Up with Locals
For a meaningful experience, join one of the community-led beach clean-ups. You’ll meet passionate locals, help preserve the coastline, and get a deeper connection to the place you’re visiting.
6. Stargaze from a Rooftop Bar in Aldea Zama
Tulum is one of the best places in Mexico for stargazing. Rooftop bars like Batey or rooftop lounges in Aldea Zama offer great views, good drinks, and a sky full of stars far away from city lights.
7. Discover the Art Route of Tulum
Tulum is also an open-air gallery. From enormous murals to street sculptures and eco-art installations, the town itself is full of creativity. Rent a bike and explore its visual soul.
And When the Day Ends…
After a day of hidden adventures, you deserve a place that feels just as special.
Ana y José Hotel & Beach Club is a boutique retreat located right on the beach — private, authentic, and elegantly designed to make you feel at home in paradise. Surrounded by nature and offering direct access to the sea, it’s the perfect base for exploring Tulum beyond the surface.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, rest, or something in between, Tulum still has secrets to share — and Ana y José is the kind of place that makes discovering them all the more meaningful.