The 20 Most Instagrammable Places in Tulum: Best Spots for Photos and Tips
The 20 Most Instagrammable Places in Tulum: Best Spots for Photos and Tips
Tulum is a visual feast for the senses. With its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and boho vibes, it’s no wonder it’s become a hotspot for content creators, travel bloggers, and anyone looking to capture that perfect Instagram photo. But with so many dreamy spots to choose from, where should you go?
Whether you’re an early riser chasing the golden hour or a casual explorer looking for photo ops without the crowds, this guide has you covered. So grab your camera (or smartphone), and let’s uncover the 20 most Instagrammable places in Tulum, along with helpful tips and pro advice to make every snapshot shine.
Beach Locations
1. Ven a la Luz at Ahau Tulum Beach
This iconic wooden sculpture by South African artist Daniel Popper stands tall at the entrance of Ahau Tulum and, as a result, has become one of the most photographed spots in Tulum. Moreover, the massive female figure—whose chest opens to reveal a heart filled with lush green plants, serves as a powerful symbol of the connection between humans and nature. Standing at over 10 meters tall, the sculpture’s name translates to “Come into the Light,” inviting visitors to literally step through the figure’s chest and emerge transformed. The intricate wooden craftsmanship combined with the tropical backdrop and the sculpture’s sheer size makes it a truly awe-inspiring sight that perfectly captures Tulum’s spiritual and eco-conscious essence.
- Best time to visit: Between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. to avoid crowds
- Entrance fee: $3 USD
- Pro tip: Arrive early for the best lighting and fewer people in your shots
2. Follow That Dream Sign
This famous sign has become a symbol of Tulum’s free-spirited vibe and makes for a perfect Instagram photo opportunity. Located slightly off the main beach road, the simple yet striking white letters against the rustic wooden background embody the bohemian, adventurous spirit that draws so many travelers to Tulum. The sign’s message resonates with visitors seeking transformation and new experiences, making it much more than just a photo spot—it’s become something of a pilgrimage for those embarking on their own journey of self-discovery. The relatively quiet location allows you to capture this iconic shot without the crowds that gather at other popular spots, and the natural surroundings add to its authentic charm.
- Best time to visit: Any time of day (less crowded than other spots)
- Entrance fee: Free
- Pro tip: Rent a turquoise bicycle from nearby Alaya Tulum hotel for $15 USD/24 hours (ID required as deposit) to add extra charm to your photos
3. Swings at Coco Tulum Beach Club
The row of white swings facing the ocean at Coco Tulum creates a dreamy setting for those perfect beach photos. These Instagram-famous swings have become synonymous with Tulum’s laid-back luxury vibe, offering visitors a chance to sway gently above the sugar-white sand while gazing out at the Caribbean’s mesmerizing turquoise waters. The minimalist white design of both the swings and the beach club creates a stark, beautiful contrast against the azure sea and sky. As you sit on these picturesque perches with a tropical drink in hand, you’ll capture not just a photo but the essence of Tulum’s carefree beach lifestyle. The best shots come during golden hour when the warm light bathes everything in a magical glow.
- Best time to visit: Around 10:00 a.m.
- Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: Free, but minimum consumption of $25 USD weekdays/$50 USD weekends
4. Twisted Palm Tree at Playa Paraíso
This uniquely shaped palm tree leaning over the white sand beach has become a favorite photo spot for travelers seeking that perfect tropical shot. Unlike the straight palm trees that line most beaches, this particular tree has grown at a dramatic angle, seemingly reaching out toward the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. The tree’s unusual form creates a natural frame for photos, with its fronds providing a bit of shade and its trunk offering a natural seat or prop. Playa Paraíso itself lives up to its name as a “paradise beach,” with powdery white sand and gentle waves that create the perfect backdrop. The contrast between the leaning palm and the vertical trees behind it not only creates depth, but also adds visual interest in photos, thereby truly capturing the untamed beauty of Tulum’s coastline.
- Best time to visit: Sunrise for best lighting and fewer crowds
- Hours: 24/7 (public beach)
- Entrance fee: Free
- Pro tip: Arrive early to secure parking nearby
Hotels & Beach Clubs
5. Selina Tulum
With its bohemian aesthetic and stylish design elements, Selina Tulum offers plenty of photo opportunities throughout its thoughtfully designed spaces. This popular co-working and accommodation spot beautifully blends modern design with natural elements, featuring handcrafted Mexican textiles, lush plants, and artistic touches at every turn. The property’s communal areas are particularly photogenic, with colorful hammocks, dream catchers, macramé decorations, and eclectic furniture that perfectly embody Tulum’s artistic spirit. The beachfront section offers stunning views of the coast, while the garden areas provide lush green backdrops for portraits. Even if you’re not staying here, the welcoming atmosphere and Instagram-worthy corners make it worth exploring with your camera in hand.
- Best time to visit: Later in the day is fine as it’s less popular than other spots
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Entrance fee: Free and open to the public
6. Vagalume Beach Club
The entrance to this beach club features a stunning design that has become a popular Instagram spot for visitors exploring Tulum’s beach road. A magnificent wooden archway adorned with hanging lanterns creates a magical tunnel effect that perfectly frames whoever walks through it. The name “Vagalume” means firefly in Portuguese, and the lanterns pay homage to this with their warm, glowing light that’s especially enchanting in the evening hours. Beyond the famous entrance, the beach club itself offers plenty of photo opportunities with its stylish cabanas, oceanfront pool, and natural wood furnishings that blend seamlessly with the surrounding palms and sea grapes. The contrast between light and shadow throughout the property creates dramatic effects that photography enthusiasts will appreciate.
- Best time to visit: Afternoon for the entrance; morning if you want photos inside the beach club
- Hours: Beach club open 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; entrance accessible 24/7
- Entrance fee: Free for photos at the entrance; beach club entry requires $150 USD minimum consumption
7. Casa Malca – Pablo Escobar’s Mansion
This luxury hotel, once owned by the notorious Pablo Escobar, features an artistic entrance and stunning interiors that blend contemporary art with historic architecture. The property has been transformed into a luxurious art-filled retreat by New York art dealer Lio Malca, who has adorned the spaces with pieces from his personal collection including works by Jean-Michel Basquiat and KAWS. The hotel’s most photographed spot is undoubtedly the dramatic entrance, where vintage wedding dresses hang from the ceiling creating an ethereal, slightly surreal welcome. Another Instagram favorite is the underground pool with viewing windows that create artistic frames for swimmers. The contrast between the property’s dark history and its current incarnation as a haven for art and luxury creates an intriguing narrative that draws curious visitors and photographers alike.
- Best time to visit: Any time of day
- Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: No entrance fee, but minimum spend of 1,000 Mexican pesos (~$50 USD)
8. ROC Luxe Tulum
This hotel features beautiful design elements perfect for Instagram, showcasing a harmonious blend of luxury and Tulum’s natural beauty. The property’s entrance is particularly striking, with massive wooden doors set against whitewashed walls that create a dramatic welcome for guests and photographers alike. Throughout the hotel, natural materials like polished concrete, local wood, and handwoven textiles create a sophisticated yet earthy aesthetic that embodies modern Mexican design. The rooftop areas offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and glimpses of the ocean beyond, perfect for sunset photos. Thoughtful details like hanging chairs, lush tropical plants, and mood lighting make every corner of this boutique property worthy of your Instagram feed.
- Best time to visit: Early morning
- Hours: Entrance open 24/7
- Entrance fee: Free
9. Papaya Playa Project
This stunning eco-resort features beautiful architecture and beach views. Over time, it became a cornerstone of Tulum’s sustainable luxury movement. The property has 85 casitas and cabañas built from local materials using traditional Mayan techniques. Each structure is uniquely designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. The resort’s most photographed spots include a dramatic beachfront DJ tower resembling a bird’s nest made of wood. Circular day beds perched on the white sand beach are also popular. Additionally, the oceanfront infinity pool appears to merge with the Caribbean Sea. During full moon celebrations, the property transforms with fire dancers and artistic installations that create magical photo opportunities. Papaya Playa Project’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its design, making it both photogenic and environmentally conscious.
- Best time to visit: Mid-season for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Pro tip: Book in advance for the best experience
Food & Drink Spots
10. I Scream Bar
This colorful ice cream shop provides a vibrant backdrop for your Instagram feed, thanks to its whimsical design and retro aesthetic. Furthermore, the façade features a bright pink storefront adorned with neon signs and playful decorations, which immediately catch the eye of passersby on Tulum’s beach road. Inside, the walls are adorned with quirky art, vintage-inspired décor, and clever ice cream puns, all of which create fun photo opportunities. Meanwhile, the star attractions are the innovative, picture-perfect ice cream creations themselves, often featuring colorful garnishes, edible flowers, or artistic chocolate work that elevate both flavor and presentation. The shop’s name is a playful take on the phrase “I scream for ice cream,” and the entire space embodies this sense of childlike joy and indulgence that makes for authentic, happy photos that capture the carefree spirit of a Tulum vacation.
- Best time to visit: Right at 2:00 p.m. when they open
- Hours: 2:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. daily
- Entrance fee: Free
- Pro tip: Try their delicious ice cream while you’re there!
11. Matcha Mama Tulum Beach
Famous for its cute swings and colorful signage, this healthy café is an Instagram favorite that has become a must-visit spot on the Tulum beach road. The small but mighty juice bar features a charming rustic wooden façade with hand-painted signs displaying playful phrases like “Good Vibes Only” and “But First, Matcha.” The café’s most photographed feature is undoubtedly its wooden counter seating with swings instead of traditional stools, where visitors can sip their vibrant green matcha creations while swaying gently in the ocean breeze. The menu focuses on healthy smoothies, acai bowls, and of course, various matcha concoctions—all served in coconut shells or colorful bowls that are as photogenic as they are delicious. The contrast of the bright, colorful food against the natural wooden elements creates perfect composition for food photography.
- Best time to visit: 8:00 a.m. to beat the crowds
- Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily
- Pro tip: Order one of their smoothies or smoothie bowls for your photo
Art Installations
12. Conestesia Bunny
This art installation is becoming increasingly popular for photos, not only because of its whimsical charm but also due to its profound presence amidst Tulum’s natural landscape. Created by local artists, the large sculptural bunny sits in a meditative pose with closed eyes, thereby conveying a sense of tranquility and mindfulness that perfectly aligns with Tulum’s spiritual atmosphere. Made from natural materials that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment, the sculpture changes in appearance throughout the day as light and shadows play across its surface. The name “Conestesia” is a play on “consciousness” and “anesthesia,” suggesting a state between awareness and dreamlike trance—a feeling many visitors to Tulum describe experiencing during their stay. The bunny’s position allows for creative photography angles, and its growing popularity means it’s quickly becoming as iconic as other Tulum art installations.
- Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid waiting in line
- Hours: Accessible 24/7
- Entrance fee: Free
Cenotes
13. Cenote Calavera
Known as the “Temple of Doom,” this cenote features a skull-shaped opening that creates one of the most distinctive and photogenic natural formations in the Tulum area. The cenote gets its macabre nickname from the main entrance—a large circular hole with two smaller holes nearby that together resemble a skull when viewed from below. Adventurous visitors can jump through the “eye sockets” into the refreshing waters below, creating dramatic silhouette photos against the sky. Unlike some of the larger, more developed cenotes, Calavera maintains a more intimate, wild feel with wooden ladders leading down to the water and natural limestone formations throughout. The play of light beams penetrating the openings creates ethereal underwater lighting effects that underwater photography enthusiasts will particularly appreciate. The cenote’s relatively smaller size makes it feel like discovering a secret swimming hole in the jungle.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or after 3:00 p.m. for fewer crowds
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: 250 MXN pesos (~$12.60 USD) per person, cash only
- Camera fee: Additional 200 MXN pesos (~$10 USD) for cameras/GoPros
Mexican Skull T-shirt: A Touch of Style and Tradition for Your Wardrobe
In Tulum, where Mexican culture merges with natural beauty, the Mexican Skull T-shirt is born. A unique garment that captures the essence of this mystical place and invites you to express your most authentic side.
More than just a simple t-shirt, this garment is a blank canvas for your creativity. Combine it with shorts, jeans, or your favorite skirt and create irresistible looks that reflect your personality.
Take a piece of Tulum with you wherever you go and show off your unique style with the Mexican Skull T-shirt.
14. Cenote Dos Ojos
Dos Ojos, meaning “Two Eyes” in Spanish, is a famous cenote system with crystal-clear waters. It’s named for two neighboring circular cenotes connected by a large cavern zone. Part of one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems, it offers open-air swimming areas bathed in natural light. It also features fascinating cave sections with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. The water is exceptionally clear, often with visibility exceeding 100 feet. This clarity creates surreal turquoise and blue hues that seem to glow from within. Limestone formations create natural platforms at different levels, perfect for photos capturing above and below water. For adventurers, the Bat Cave section can be explored with a guide. This enclosed, atmospheric cave offers unique photo opportunities, contrasting with the open, light-filled main cenotes.
- Best time to visit: Early morning
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: 350 MXN pesos (~$17 USD) per person
15. Gran Cenote Tulum
A popular cenote with stunning formations and clear water that consistently ranks among the most visited natural attractions near Tulum. Unlike some cenotes fully enclosed in caves, Gran Cenote has partially open caverns connected by wooden platforms and walkways. This design creates a perfect blend of open-air swimming areas and mysterious cave sections. The water’s remarkable clarity reveals an underwater world filled with intricate limestone formations. Small fish swim gracefully, appearing to float in mid-air.
Turtles often make appearances here,
swimming gracefully through the transparent waters and adding wildlife interest to underwater photos. Natural light filters through the jungle canopy and openings in the limestone ceiling, creating dramatic rays of light that pierce the water—a photographer’s dream scenario. The wooden decks and platforms surrounding the cenote offer various vantage points for capturing both the natural beauty and the joyful experience of visitors exploring this magical place.
- Best time to visit: Opening time (8:00 a.m.) or around 3:00 p.m.
- Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily
- Entrance fee: 180 MXN pesos (~$9 USD) per person
- Additional costs: Snorkel equipment rental (80 MXN/$4 USD), lockers (30 MXN/$1.50 USD)
16. Cenote Suytun
Cenote Suytun is famous for its stone platform where sunlight creates a striking spotlight effect. It offers perhaps the most theatrical natural lighting among all Yucatán cenotes. Moreover, it is located near Valladolid. The cenote features a large circular cavity with a perfectly centered stone platform. This platform is accessible via a narrow walkway. At certain times of day, especially around noon, a single beam of sunlight shines through a hole in the ceiling. This natural spotlight illuminates whoever stands on the platform, creating a magical effect.
This celestial light show
transforms an already beautiful natural formation into something truly magical, reminiscent of ancient Mayan light ceremonies. The surrounding cavern with its stalactites and the perfectly still water reflecting the rock formations create a sense of otherworldly beauty. The stone platform itself appears to float on the water’s surface, creating the illusion that visitors are walking on water as they approach the center—a truly unique photo opportunity that captures both natural wonder and a touch of mysticism.
- Best time to visit: Between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. for the sun rays
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: 120 MXN pesos (~$6.05 USD) per person, includes life jackets
17. Cenote Chukum
A less crowded cenote with beautiful natural light named after the Chukum tree, a native species whose resin was traditionally used by the Maya for waterproofing. This relatively newer tourist destination offers a more exclusive experience compared to better-known cenotes, as it’s part of a small eco-park developed with sustainability in mind. The cenote features crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic rock formations and hanging vines that create a jungle-meets-underground-river aesthetic. Multiple wooden platforms and a swing rope offer various ways to enter the water and create dynamic action shots.
What makes this cenote
especially photogenic is the way sunlight penetrates through the natural opening above, creating ethereal light beams that dance through the water as the day progresses. The cenote’s depth and clarity make it ideal for underwater photography, with fascinating limestone formations visible beneath the surface. The facility also includes a restaurant serving traditional Yucatecan food, beautiful gardens, and changing areas built with natural materials that blend harmoniously with the environment.
- Best time to visit: Noon for sun rays, or 3:00 p.m. for fewer crowds
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: $10 USD per person (includes parking, life jackets, and lockers) or $25 USD with buffet lunch
18. Cenote Oxman
A stunning cenote with hanging vines and clear blue water lies on the grounds of Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman. This cenote perfectly captures what makes natural sinkholes magical. It features a large, open circular cavity with dramatic roots and vines cascading nearly 15 meters down to the water. The contrast between lush green vegetation and deep blue waters creates a striking visual composition.
A wooden staircase winds
its way down to a swimming platform, meanwhile offering multiple vantage points for photos along the descent. For those seeking adventure, a rope swing hangs from a sturdy tree above, allowing visitors to swing out over the water and drop into the refreshing depths below, ultimately creating perfect action shots against the dramatic backdrop. The hacienda setting adds historical context to the natural beauty, with the option to enjoy the adjacent swimming pool and restaurant facilities for a full-day experience combining nature photography with cultural exploration.
- Best time to visit: 9:00 a.m. when they open
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: 150 MXN pesos (~$7.50 USD) per person, cash only
Day Trips
19. Las Coloradas
These stunning pink lakes create an otherworldly backdrop for photos that seem almost too surreal to be natural. Located within the Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, about three hours from Tulum, Las Coloradas has gained international fame; in particular, its vibrant pink waters attract global attention — a phenomenon that occurs due tored-colored algae, plankton, and brine shrimp thriving in the region’s high-salinity environment. The salt lakes are actually part of an industrial salt production facility, where the concentrated pink waters contrast dramatically with the white salt mountains piled alongside them, creating striking geometric patterns when viewed from different angles.
Flamingos occasionally visit the area,
adding to the pink theme and creating perfect wildlife photo opportunities. The shallow water’s surface often appears mirror-like, doubling the visual impact through reflections of pink water and bright blue sky. Because swimming is now prohibited, visitors help protect the fragile ecosystem. However, raised viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points for breathtaking photos. These views capture the natural wonder’s otherworldly beauty, making it look like it belongs on another planet. The vivid colors combined with perfect reflections create a surreal and unforgettable experience. Additionally, the gentle breeze sometimes ripples the water, adding dynamic texture to photos. Overall, this site is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
- Best time to visit: Around noon on a sunny day for the most vibrant colors
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Entrance fee: 75 MXN pesos (~$4 USD) per person
- Pro tip: Consider taking an organized tour due to the distance from Tulum
20. Chichén Itzá
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city is a must-visit archaeological site. It offers countless opportunities for awe-inspiring photography. The complex is dominated by the towering El Castillo pyramid, also called the Temple of Kukulcán. This site showcases the Mayans’ extraordinary knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture. The main pyramid has 365 steps—one for each day of the year. It was designed so during equinoxes, the setting sun creates a serpent-shaped shadow on the northern staircase. This spectacular phenomenon draws thousands of visitors each year.
Beyond the famous pyramid,
the site contains numerous other remarkable structures including the largest ball court in Mesoamerica, the Temple of the Warriors with its forest of carved columns, the mysterious circular observatory known as El Caracol, and the sacred cenote where archaeologists have recovered countless artifacts and human remains from sacrificial rituals. The detailed stone carvings throughout the site offer fascinating close-up photography opportunities, while the sweeping plazas and perfectly aligned structures demonstrate the advanced civilization that thrived here over a thousand years ago.
- Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Best season: During the equinox for special shadow effects
- Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily
- Entrance fee: 533 MXN pesos (~$27 USD) total, paid at two separate booths
- Pro tip: Bring ID if paying by credit card
Tips for Photography in Tulum
- Pack light but bring essentials: A good camera, smartphone, extra batteries, and portable charger
- Early bird gets the shot: Most locations are least crowded early in the morning
- Respect the environment: Don’t damage natural areas for the sake of a photo
- Respect local customs: Always ask permission before photographing locals
- Weather check: Tulum can be very hot – plan your photo shoots for cooler times of day
- Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially when visiting cenotes and archaeological sites
- Cash is king: Many places only accept cash, especially the cenotes
Tulum’s breathtaking natural beauty, bohemian atmosphere, and unique architectural elements make it a photographer’s paradise. Whether you’re capturing the turquoise waters of its beaches, the mystical cenotes, or the artistic installations throughout town, your Instagram feed is guaranteed to make your followers dream of their own Tulum getaway.
Remember to be respectful of the environment and local culture while capturing these beautiful spots, and always clean up after yourself to help preserve Tulum’s natural beauty for generations to come.
