Cancun and Tulum offer two distinct vibes, creating the perfect pairing for an unforgettable adventure in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Cancun is all about high energy and vibrant fun, with its iconic turquoise waters, all-inclusive resorts, and lively nightlife. A visit to Chichén Itzá is an absolute must, offering a glimpse into Mexico’s ancient history.
Tulum, in contrast, exudes a bohemian, laid-back charm. This coastal town is known for its eco-chic vibe, featuring beachfront cabanas, trendy restaurants, and a slower pace perfect for unwinding. The relaxed atmosphere is complemented by breathtaking beaches and a commitment to sustainability, making it an idyllic retreat.
For a completely different flavor of Mexico, head west to Sayulita, a charming surf town on the Riviera Nayarit. Sayulita offers colorful streets, friendly locals, and an authentic, easygoing vibe. Its golden beaches, perfect for surfing or simply lounging, pair beautifully with fresh seafood and tropical cocktails, creating a truly unique experience.
What ties these destinations together is their ability to balance adventure, relaxation, and culture. From Cancun’s lively energy to Tulum’s bohemian elegance and Sayulita’s surfer-friendly charm, each destination offers something special. Together, they create the perfect itinerary for soaking up the diverse beauty and spirit of Mexico.
Here are my personal experiences in Cancun, Tulum, and Sayulita—three incredible escapes that highlight the best of what Mexico has to offer.
Stay
Andaz Mexico City Condesa, by Hyatt Andaz Mexico City Condesa is a luxury boutique hotel in the artistic La Condesa neighborhood with designer retro elements, plush comforts, and a rooftop pool, located steps from Parque Mexico
Conrad Punta de Mita The Conrad Punta de Mita beachfront resort is nestled where the jungle meets the sea, along Riviera Nayarit's pristine Litibu beach
Conrad Tulum Maya Rivera Conrad Tulum Maya Rivera is a gorgeous, ocean facing hotel that offers modern architecture with views that merge the sky with the ocean.
Haramara Retreat Haramara Retreat in Sayulita, Mexico, is a secluded eco-luxury haven nestled between the jungle and sea, offering ocean-view yoga pavilions and a serene focus on mindfulness
Hotel Xcaret México Escaping to the luxury of the all inclusive Hotel Xcaret México was an incredible experience - and a fantastic introduction to the best of Quintana Roo, Mexico
Paledora Eco Resort Campus Combining a lush jungle atmosphere with pleasant accommodations, Paledora Eco Resort was a distinct setting for our Ayahuasca journey.Experiences
Chichen Itza and Xei-Ha Tulum Tour by Xcaret Visiting Chichen Itza and spending time at Xei-Ha in Tulum was a great way to spend the day in Cancun, Mexico
Evening Taco and Mezcal Walking Tour in Mexico City with Airbnb Experiences This walking tour through Roma Norte offered a comfortable group experience to discover Mexico City's vibrant cultural soul through tacos and mezcal
Finding Life After Grief: Joe Kara’s Yoga Retreat in Sayulita, Mexico Nearly a year after my mom's death, I saw my favorite yoga teacher had space in his upcoming Mexico retreat. All I could think was, "go." So, I did.
My Journey of Sitting with Ayahuasca in the Jungle of Tulum, Mexico A journal writing regarding personal reflections on my experience of sitting with Ayahuasca for two nights. 
Xcaret Xplor Park Xcaret Xplor is a comprehensive adventure park that makes you feel that you're Indiana Jones in Cancun, Mexico. Eat
Breakfast at Arbol at Conrad Punta de Mita Arbol, Conrad Punta de Mita’s all-day restaurant, pairs beautiful views with home-style Mexican plates.
Charlie’s Restaurant With an order of ceviche, Mexican beer and chips, lunch at Charlie's Restaurant offered the quintessential Tulum food experience. 
Codex at Conrad Punta de Mita Codex, Conrad Punta de Mita’s dinner-only restaurant, presents refined modern takes on regional Mexican cuisine
Dinner at Casa Milpa at Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection Casa Milpa, the signature indoor-outdoor restaurant at Susurros del Corazón, serves farm and sea-to-table Mexican dishes, accompanied with majestic views of the Pacific Ocean
Expendio de Maiz The Michelin starred Expendio de Maíz offers a casual, communal dining experience centered on bespoke Mexican cuisine without a fixed menu
HA’ by Carlos Gaytan Dinner at HA’ restaurant was the perfect way to celebrate my birthday at Hotel Xcaret México in Tulum, Mexico
La Trajinera After a long day of adventuring, dining at La Trajinera at Hotel Xcaret Mexico was a welcomed reprieve
La Tulumena Restaurante Barbara said that she wanted a pina colada. So, I made it my mission to find the best pina colada in Tulum. 
Madre Café Located on the grounds of a restored Roma Norte mansion, Madre Café plates tempting small bites in a lush courtyard oasis in Mexico City
Panaderia Rosetta Panadería Rosetta is a charming Roma Norte bakery, famous for guava and cheese pastries that blend Mexican and European styles
The Fat Boy Seafood Sipping tableside margaritas with sand between my toes made lunch at Bucerías’s beachfront Fat Boy Seafood pure perfection
