As spring break 2024 approaches, hotels at popular destinations worldwide are already almost fully booked, and the Mexican Caribbean is no exception.
But this time, the iconic Cancun is not the only tourist hotspot in the region anticipating a wave of tourists during this time, as Tulum has also emerged as a top pick among spring breakers this year.
The trendy beach town was recently featured on TravelPulse’s list of the top spring break destinations worldwide in 2024, based on insights from travel advisors and industry insiders.
According to these experts, Mexico, as a whole, is set to be highly popular among travelers during this time period.
One big reason is that Mexico was quick to welcome tourists as the pandemic was winding down, but by 2022, the destination was experiencing some travel fatigue.
However, this trend has significantly reversed in more recent times, especially for the Mexican Caribbean, as 2023 was officially its busiest year in tourism ever.
@carolthompson_ 🫶🫶 #springbreak #tulum #collegespringbreak #friends #bestietrip #friendtrip ♬ SpectrumMarcoGeneraniremix – marcogenerani(IT)
But considering the multitude of popular hotspots not only in the Mexican Caribbean but nationwide, why are spring breakers flocking to Tulum this year?
Let’s find out.
World-Class Hospitality
Offering both convenience and extensive amenities, the all-inclusive option remains a favorite among travelers visiting the Mexican Caribbean.
And with Tulum’s wide array of stunning all-inclusive resorts, which range from highly luxurious to budget-friendly, it’s easy to see why it has become a go-to spot for spring breakers this year.
@thesophia__renee 📍Dreams Resort and Spa, Tulum Mexico ✨[Save this post]✨ Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa is a great family friendly resort to consider in Tulum. Here are some reasons why we enjoyed the resort: ⭐️They have Suites perfect for families. We stayed in the Preferred Club Master Suite located in the Hacienda. It was perfect for our family. It’s furnished with contemporary and charming decor. We spent time hanging out on the balcony and took in the amazing ocean views. It’s located right above the resort cafe, ice cream shop, and preferred lounge and bar. ⭐️The resort is beautiful and they have a lot of entertainment, themed dinners, cooking lessons, dance lessons and more. They have a private beach area with cabanas and it’s own bar. You can relax in a quiet area and enjoy family time. ⭐️The Mayan-themed Explorer’s Club is amazing! It has lots of fun activities for the kids, including a water park with 6 water slides, 2 giant buckets, and splash pad area. You have the option to leave your kids for a few hours. ⭐️The resort has easy access to transportation so you can explore off the resort. We enjoyed a night out without the kids and went to Taboo and Mystico. Both places are worth checking out. Mystico was a Black in Tulum party and it was a vibe! We were lucky enough to convince my mother-in-law to join us on this trip so we could have some adult time. I highly recommend doing so if it’s feasible. ⭐️It’s an all-inclusive resort. There are sixteen different restaurants and bars at the resort, including a kid friendly buffet, so there is something for everyone. There is also 24-hour room service. ⭐️They have a large heated shallow pool, making it suitable for kids so you can enjoy the pool as a family. They also have another pool which is more active with pool parties. ✨Would you take your kids to Tulum? Let me know if you have any questions about this resort. #familytravel #familyfriendly #familyfriendlyhotel #familyfun #familygoals #familytime #familyfriendly #familyresort @Dreams Resorts & Spas #lifeontiktok #tiktokpartner ♬ Sittin' On Top Of The World – Burna Boy
Most of Tulum’s luxury all-inclusives such as the Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa and Barceló Maya Riviera are not located in the Tulum Pueblo (downtown) area or the town’s hotel zone, but spread along the coastline stretching from Tulum to Playa del Carmen.
However, Tulum Hotel Zone also offers plenty of wonderful accommodation options in the form of smaller boutique hotels, eco-friendly resorts, and beachfront cabanas, while the Tulum Pueblo area is home to the most budget-friendly options.
Great Connectivity
Tulum’s proximity to Cancun, which enjoys exceptional connectivity with the U.S., makes it a convenient and accessible getaway option for travelers.
Located just about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Cancun Airport, the town is easily accessible by ADO bus, car rental, private transfer, or a shared shuttle, though some options are more pricey than others.
@flyauntiemik13 SOLO TULUM TRIP SERIES: EP. 1- CATCHING THE ADO BUS! AFTER MY SOLO BDAY TRIP SO MANY PPL EXPRESSED THAT THEY WANT TO GET THE COURAGE TO DO ONE! I’M CREATING A SERIES TO GIVE YOU SOME INSIGHT ON HOW MINE WENT! I HOPE YOU ENJOY! #solovacay#solotrip#solotulumtrip#tulum#mexico#tulummexico#ado#adobus#fyp#foryoupage#tulumtransportation ♬ original sound – Mik
ADO remains the most affordable alternative, with a one-way ticket from Cancun Airport to Tulum costing around $USD 25, while a private transfer might cost up to $USD 150.
Moreover, the town’s already excellent connectivity will significantly improve as the recently inaugurated Tulum Airport begins international operations by the end of March, offering flights from major U.S. cities such as Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Orlando, and Atlanta.
Another game-changer for Tulum in terms of connectivity is the Maya Train project, which will actually feature a station at Tulum Airport.
Although the full route was initially set to be ready by February 29th, delays have pushed the expected date to April or March.
So, the completion of the highly anticipated Section 5, connecting Tulum to Cancun, by spring break, remains uncertain.
Tulum During Spring Break
There’s little doubt that Cancun’s long-lasting popularity as a spring break destination has much to do with its amazing weather, stunning beaches, luxurious all-inclusives, and lively nightlife.
Tulum checks all of these boxes as well, but with its bohemian atmosphere, thriving art and wellness scenes, and stunning natural surroundings, it offers a more authentic and immersive travel experience.
Travelers visiting Tulum will be likely amazed by the sheer number of exciting and unique activities this charming beach town has to offer.
Some of the must-do activities include exploring the impressive Tulum Mayan Ruins, swimming in refreshing cenotes, visiting the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, attending a temazcal retreat, tasting the local cuisine, and much more.
While Tulum’s nightlife may not match the intensity of Cancun’s, several beach clubs and popular bars like Santino and Gitano transform into vibrant party hubs during spring break.
Still, the largest crowds of partygoers will likely be found at the iconic Tulum electronic music festivals like Zamna and Locus.
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