How to get from tulum airport to its beaches?

Tulum is one of the most visited destinations and one of the jewels of the Riviera Maya. This destination is famous for its incredible white sand beaches and turquoise waters, but also for its cenotes and Mayan ruins in front of the sea. Since December 2023 Tulum has its own international airport, so tourists do not need to arrive through Cancun International Airport or Cozumel International Airport, but can enjoy Tulum non-stop. In this Hertz Mexico article we show you how to get from the airport to the beaches of Tulum and give you details on how to move around its different areas, with recommendations to rent a car and enjoy the most beautiful beaches of this paradise.

Best option to get from the airport to Tulum beach

One of the most practical ways to get around Tulum and its beaches is by car. Renting a car from the Tulum airport will allow you to explore at your own pace, make stops along the way and easily access the different beaches and archaeological sites. The advantages of renting a car in Tulum with Hertz Mexico are many, but mostly have to do with freedom, since you can go to the beaches and other attractions in Tulum whenever you want, without depending on transportation schedules. Besides, some of the most beautiful beaches in Tulum are far away and a car will allow you to get there without problems, optimize your travel time and make the most of your stay.

The best beaches in Tulum: how to get there and what to expect?

Once at the airport in Tulum, you have a lot of beaches to visit. Here we will tell you about the most popular ones that you can explore by rental car:

Playa Paraíso

This beach is located about 50 minutes from the airport and only a 5 minute drive from downtown Tulum, Playa Paraiso is one of the most famous and photographed beaches in the area. It is located near the ruins of Tulum, so you can combine a day at the beach with a visit to the ruins.

How to get there: From downtown Tulum, take the road to the archaeological zone and follow the signs to Playa Paraiso. There are parking lots near the beach, although it is recommended to arrive early to find a spot.

What to expect: Crystal clear waters, white sand and options of restaurants and beach bars. Playa Paraiso is an excellent choice for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the Caribbean scenery.

Las Palmas Beach

Just south of Playa Paraiso, this beach offers a quieter and less crowded atmosphere. It is an excellent option if you are looking for a little more privacy without going too far away from the main areas.

How to get there: From Playa Paraiso, continue south on the coastal road and you will soon reach Playa Las Palmas. Parking is available, although limited.

What to expect: The beach is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the tranquility, with fewer visitors and a beautiful natural setting. The waters here are perfect for swimming.

Playa Pescadores

Next to Playa Paraiso, Playa Pescadores has a more local atmosphere and gives you the opportunity to see the colorful fishing boats that often dock on the shore.

How to get there: From Playa Paraíso, head north and you will find Playa Pescadores. There are also parking lots nearby and several accesses to the beach.

What to expect: Besides being a great place to relax, Playa Pescadores is perfect if you want to experience the local fishing atmosphere. Here you can rent a boat for snorkeling or fishing tours.

Playa Ruinas

Located just below the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum, this beach offers a unique experience, with a breathtaking view of the ruins over the cliff.

How to get there: The entrance to the Tulum ruins is the same as for Playa Ruinas. You can park at the archaeological site and walk to the beach.

What to expect: Playa Ruinas is small and usually crowded, but the view of the Mayan ruins from the shore makes it worth it. It is ideal for swimming in calm waters and taking stunning photos with the ruins in the background.

Playa Santa Fe

Playa Santa Fe is a few minutes from the ruins and is a wide, relaxed beach. If you want to avoid the crowds, this beach is the one for you.

How to get there: Head south from the entrance of the ruins until you find Playa Santa Fe. There are parking lots and easy access from the coastal road.

What to expect: A spacious and quiet beach, ideal for swimming, water sports or just relaxing in the sun. There are small restaurants and areas where you can rent umbrellas.

Tips to enjoy the beaches of Tulum

• Plan your day: To make the most of your time, start early. Tulum's beaches can get crowded, especially in high season, so arriving early will allow you to enjoy the beaches without crowds and easily find parking.

• Bring the essentials: Pack biodegradable sunscreen, towels, water and some food. Some beaches have services, but in others you won't find food or beverage options.

• Respect the environment: Tulum is a natural conservation area and it is important to take care of its beaches. Pick up your trash, avoid carrying single-use items and use environmentally friendly sunscreen to protect the reefs and marine fauna.

• Take advantage of water activities: Tulum's beaches are ideal for snorkeling, paddleboarding and kayaking. Playa Pescadores and Playa Paraíso often have rental options for aquatic equipment.

• Enjoy an unforgettable vacation in this natural paradise and take advantage of rent a car with Hertz Mexico at the Tulum airport, the best option to explore with freedom, move around without problems and make the most of each beach.