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Tulum, Mexico
Tulum’s gorgeous beaches and other natural wonders have made it a top destination for travelers looking for a little bit of everything—adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking views. Here, renowned local chef José Luis Hinostroza Buenrostro shares secrets for making your Tulum stay unforgettable.
White sand beaches. Stunning Mayan ruins. Crystal blue cenotes. Tulum, on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is rife with natural beauty and archeological interest. In addition, Tulum offers travelers an abundance of resorts, beaches, and dining options. This combination has transformed what was once Mexico’s best-kept secret into a bucket list-worthy destination.
Let local chef and restaurateur José Luis Hinostroza Buenrostro show you the best places in Tulum to stay, eat and explore. Before opening his micro-seasonal restaurant Arca in Tulum, Chef Hinostroza Buenrostro, who is also co-owner of Mi Amor and Mestixa, honed his craft in world-class kitchens around the globe. In addition to knowing great food and Tulum, he also knows what makes for an exceptional hospitality experience.
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WHERE TO EAT
Arca
Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km 7.6, Tulum BeachChef Hinostroza Buenrostro's own Michelin-starred Arca restaurant offers a “micro-seasonal” menu of small plates that feature inventive takes on Mexican classics such as octopus al pastor. Come for the open-fire cooking, unbeatable atmosphere and diverse menu with equally exciting meat, seafood, and vegetable dishes.
Mi Amor
Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km. 4.1, Zona Hotelera Tulum, Zona CosteraOverlooking the ocean and surrounded by reflecting pools, Mi Amor—Chef José Luis Hinostroza Buenrostro’s latest undertaking—is a true feast for the senses. The unpretentious Mediterranean-inspired Mexican menu features comfort foods like fish tacos and falafel alongside more elevated fare like tagliatelle with sea urchin, buttered grilled shrimp, and trofie with pumpkinseed pesto. Mi Amor also offers private dining on the rocks and a special prix-fixe “Romantic Dinner” menu if you’re in the mood for an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience.
Mestixa
Av. Satélite between Av. Tulum and Calle Polar Pte.Mestixa is an Asian and Mexican street food concept developed by Chef Hinostroza Buenrostro and Executive Chef Cara Davis. The unique cocktails and fusion dishes live up to the energetic atmosphere. Try the fish tostada and tom yum roasted bone marrow. If you’re an herbivore, Mestixa hasn’t forgotten about you. Vegetarian dishes, like the kabocha squash croquetas, are as mouth-watering as anything else on the menu.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Bardo
A. Rio Otate & Rio BascaBardo is more than a hotel. It’s a secluded, adults-only jungle retreat of 29 villas with outdoor showers and private pools. The atmosphere is great for meditating and stargazing with your significant other. The spa offers shamanic therapies in addition to yoga and sound therapy with Tibetan singing bowls.
Copal Tulum Hotel
Calle Ixchel, esquina Avda. JuanekCopal boasts an intriguing jungle-forward design that makes the most of the tropical locale and provides a relaxing environment just outside of central Tulum. The attentive staff and rooftop infinity pool add to the experience. Plus, a well-attended taxi stand outside the hotel makes it easy to get around. Guests can also rent ATVs to ride to the beaches.
Biwa
Av. Satélite Norte, CentroBiwa is a family-run, 14-room hotel in the heart of downtown Tulum. It’s a perfect destination for those who want an experience that includes modern urban charm. The hotel offers bike rentals and a shuttle service that will take you to beaches, cenotes, and other popular Tulum locations.
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WHERE TO EXPLORE
Azulik Uh May
Grulla 23, 77796 Francisco Uh MayAzulik Uh May is hard to define. Think of it like a giant art installation in the middle of the jungle. Currently, it’s comprised of an art museum and a jungle restaurant—both of which encourage visitors to reconnect with ancestral wisdom, linking the creative and physical worlds.
Dos Ojos Cenote
77774 Quintana RooThe area is famous for its cenotes—sinkholes that connect to underground rivers. Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) is one of the most popular and connects to more than 50 miles of underwater caves. It’s no surprise that cave divers, swimmers, and snorkelers alike flock to Dos Ojos for a sublime, otherworldly underwater experience.
Tulum Archeological Zone
Zona Arqueológica TulumDon't leave Tulum without having visited this 13th-century Maya archeological site overlooking the sea on a hilltop. It’s one of the best-preserved Mayan sites, almost like taking a time machine to a forgotten world. Avoid the crowds (and the midday sun!) by visiting early in the day.
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