It was never especially hard to visit Tulum (it's just two hours south of Cancun), but now it's never been easier.
Because Tulum's shiny new international airport is serving direct flights from cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas and Houston, which means you're only a few hours away from eating fish tacos and sipping umbrella drinks on the beach.
But first, you need a place to stay.
The Beach Tulum is a 28-room, adults-only boutique resort located right on the beach and in the heart of Tulum. It's a quiet retreat from the thumping day clubs (and night clubs) nearby, putting you close to the action without forcing your hand.
The beachfront rooms cover three configurations ranging from spacious to very spacious, all with king-size beds. Each has a private plunge pool or a rooftop hot tub, for those times when you can't be bothered to leave.
But just outside your room is the private beach, with dedicated daybeds for each guest, so you're never scrambling for a seat. Or post up at the resort-style pool. It winds through the center of the property, shaded by palm trees and close to the bar, where friendly staff are quick with ice-cold beers and tropical cocktails.
The Beach Tulum has two on-site restaurants: Fresco's and Ziggy's. The first is where to go for coffee, smoothies, acai bowls and other healthy breakfasts, plus casual lunches and dinners featuring tacos and fresh ceviches. Ziggy's is situated on the beach and offers a higher-end menu, but it's still casual enough to keep those shorts on and to kick off your sandals under the table. Choose from freshly caught fish, Zarandeado-style octopus, grilled steaks and a solid drinks list featuring a thoughtful selection of mezcals and Mexican wines.
Don't miss the Naj Naay Spa. There you can start with a water circuit and cycle through a sauna, steam room, Scottish shower, and hot and cold pools to prep for your treatment. Those range from standard Swedish and deep-tissue massages to Mayan healing techniques meant to open energy channels and cleanse your spirit. Whichever you choose, you'll feel a lot better leaving than when you came in.
The hotel is adjacent to a sister property, Cabañas Tulum Beach Hotel & Spa, which is a bit more casual and affordable. It has 24 rooms and its own pool, and shares the same great restaurants and spa facilities. The Beach Tulum is a slightly more luxurious experience, and has the better pool, but it's hard to go wrong.
Both stays put you in close proximity to off-site adventures, so after a couple days lazing around the beach, book a cenote tour to explore natural, crystal-clear swimming holes. Visit a Mayan temple, or wander through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, a UNESCO heritage site filed with lowland forests, mangroves and reef systems.
The Margaritas will be waiting when you return.
