Tulum is one of the best-known resorts on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Here you’ll find long beaches with fine white sand, the turquoise Caribbean Sea, Mayan ruins, cenotes and the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve.

Of all the resorts on the Riviera Maya, Tulum was our favourite. Although it is more expensive and upmarket, many of the hotels, restaurants and beach clubs are very tastefully done, and some parts of the resort are surprisingly peaceful.

The main reason we’d return to Tulum, however, is the beaches. In my opinion, they’re unrivalled on the Riviera Maya, and in many places they look exactly like the photos in a travel brochure.

The 10 best hotels in Tulum

Tulum does have its drawbacks, though. Distances are quite long, transport is expensive or confusing (neither Uber nor the regular city buses operate there), and prices are among the highest in Mexico.

However, if you choose your accommodation wisely, Tulum offers a brilliant combination of relaxation, nature and day trips.