As a history lover, I couldn’t pass up the chance to visit the Tulum Ruins while staying in Playa del Carmen, just 45 minutes away. I was there with a group of friends for a four-day, all-inclusive beach concert extravaganza—days filled with golf, snorkeling, and poolside lounging, followed by nights of music under the stars.
With such a packed schedule, squeezing in Tulum felt risky. But after hearing a few fellow guests rave about their experience—taking a hotel-arranged taxi with a private, skip-the-line tour—I was sold. It was a little extra cost, but with limited time, it seemed like the smart move. And it absolutely was.
While groups of 25+ waited in line for 30 minutes or more, we walked straight in with our guide, who brought the site to life with rich history, context, and captivating stories. He didn’t just talk dates—he made the ruins feel alive. The ocean breeze, the dramatic cliffs, and the backdrop of ancient stone against turquoise sea… it was unforgettable.
We made it back to Playa just in time to freshen up and dive into another night of music and fun—no stress, no regrets. Tulum was the perfect daytime detour: quick, meaningful, and totally worth it.