5 Best Day Trips from Tulum & Playa del Carmen

Beyond the Beach

The Riviera Maya is an incredible base for exploring the Yucatán. Whether you're staying in Tulum or Playa del Carmen, these five day trips are absolutely worth it.

1. Cozumel Island — From Playa del Carmen

Take the ferry from Playa del Carmen (30 min, ~$15 USD round trip) to Mexico's largest Caribbean island. The snorkeling and diving here is world-class — Palancar Reef is one of the best dive sites in the Western Hemisphere. Rent a scooter and explore the wild east coast.

Pro tip: Go on a weekday and bring your own snorkel gear. The ferry terminal is an easy walk from downtown Playa.

2. Cobá Ruins — From Tulum

Only 45 minutes from Tulum by colectivo, Cobá is a massive ancient Mayan city hidden in the jungle. Unlike Chichén Itzá, it's still relatively uncrowded. You can rent a bike to explore the sprawling site and the surrounding jungle.

Cost: Entry ~100 MXN + bike rental ~60 MXN. Total under $10 USD.

3. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve — From Tulum

A UNESCO World Heritage Site just south of Tulum. Take a boat tour through the mangroves, float down ancient Mayan canals, and spot dolphins, manatees, and crocodiles. One of the most pristine natural areas in all of Mexico.

Cost: Tours range from $50-80 USD. Worth every peso.

4. Bacalar Lagoon — From Both

Known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors" for its incredible shades of blue. It's about 2.5 hours south of Tulum by ADO bus. Many backpackers end up staying longer than planned — it's that beautiful. You can kayak, paddleboard, or just float all day.

Pro tip: Take the early ADO bus to maximize your day. Return buses run until evening.

5. Valladolid — From Both

A charming colonial town about 1.5 hours from Tulum. Visit Cenote Suytun and Cenote Zací, explore the colorful streets, eat incredible Yucatecan food at the market, and enjoy a town that moves at its own pace.

Cost: ADO bus ~$8 USD each way. Cenote entry ~$5 USD.

Making It Work

Most day trips are easy to organize yourself with colectivos and ADO buses. But if you prefer group trips, hostels like Maui Tulum and Maui Playa del Carmen help organize tours at fair prices — and it's always more fun with people you've met at the hostel.