Diving in Tulum

The most popular dive sites in Tulum are the Cenotes so check out that section for more information.  There are a few lovely ocean dives in Tulum as well and some are right in front of the Tulum Ruins so the view is great.  It’s a part of the second largest reef system in the world (after the Great Barrier Reef) called the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

The sites are suitable for all levels of divers.  The best spot for coral and fish is Tank Ha I and Tank Ha II - 30-50ft, Things to see:  swim throughs, pinnacles, southern sting rays, lobsters and crabs and maybe a nurse shark or turtle.  There are lots of reef fish and corals also. 

La Piscina (the swimming pool) – 45ft, Things to see:  lots of different corals such as brain coral, fire coral, black coral, barracuda, angelfish and sting rays.  It’s a great place to explore between the coral formations.

Ballena (whale’s tale) – 40ft, Things to see: great coral formations, that look like fingers, reef fish, shellfish and lobsters.  This site gets its name from the big rock that almost reaches the surface and when the waves splash over it, the water looks like the tale of a whale. 

So if you like cavern diving or reef diving, you’ll find a great diving experience in Tulum wherever you go.  You can also snorkel the reef, most dive centres will take you out on the boat with the divers, the reef is quite a distance from the shore so it’s best to take a tour.

(By Kelly Luckman)

Travel to Tulum

Tulum is a small town about two and a half hours south of Cancun and easily accessible by bus or car.  It boasts one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen: white sand and crystal blue water with a few waves thrown in for fun.

The centre of town is 5km’s away from the beach and it’s easy to find accommodation of any type here.  If you’re not a on a budget there is accommodation on the beach but it’s a little more expensive than the town but worth the money to stay right on the beach.  You can catch a shuttle bus to the beach or hire a bicycle to get around.

There are two fantastic ruins to explore:  Tulum Ruins and Coba.  You might have seen the ruins of Chichen Itza in Cancun but trust me, they are all very different and each has its own history.  Coba is still in its original state and hasn’t been reconstructed like Tulum or Chichen Itza.  The structures are covered with jungle and the great thing is you can climb these ruins and get the fantastic view.  It’s a great adventure!  There is a Cenote in the grounds to take a refreshing dip after the long walk. 

The Tulum Ruins are right on the beach and were used as a port and trade route.  Stroll around the lush grounds and take a dip in the ocean after your tour.  If you like knowing the history of places then you can hire a guide or research it before you go so you know what you’re looking at. 

Other than the ruins, Tulum has one of the best collection of Cenotes that Mexico has to offer.  If you love diving, snorkelling, swimming or even bird watching then you’ll find a treasure trove of sites to explore. 

The street food in Tulum is delicious, my favourite snack is Tomalies with spicy sauce (there’s a non spicy option too).  Tortas stuffed with cochinita, a specially seasoned pork meat is one of Mexico’s representative dishes and very tasty.  You can find tacos on just about every corner.

I love the relaxed atmosphere of Tulum and would recommend it for any type of traveller, from backpackers to families, young or old, there’s something here for everyone.

(By Kelly Luckman)