Tulum, Mexico is divided into three areas: the archeological zone, the beach, and the pueblo (town). It is a wonderful place that offers peace, relaxation, and seclusion, yet there are many activities to enjoy. For instance, you can spend a day exploring the Tulum Ruins, the third most visited archeological site in Mexico, which is located 130 km south of Cancun. The "Tulum Archeological Zone" is the first clearly defined zone. You cannot miss these ruins because you will see them as you drive along Highway 307. There are also plenty of signs that point you in the right direction and there is a big pink hotel within in the vicinity. Can you picture it: a big pink hotel in the midst of Mayan ruins? What a site to see. The hotel is not the only modern day structure around. There are also a few fast food restaurants along the way as well as a large market. On your drive, you might even see the Mayan Pole Flyers because they perform throughout the day. The ruins can be found on the spectacular Tulum beach. It is one of the most gorgeous beaches in all of the Caribbean.

Tulum Beach in Boca Paila has not yet been overwrought by resorts and other forms of commercialism. Therefore, it still provides a peaceful and inspiring experience. Along this beach tourists will find cabanas for rent at inexpensive prices, drink stands, and barbecue joints. By the way, clothing is optional. So if the urge to be completely free and uninhibited hits, you can take it all off. Eager travelers can access Tulum Beach from a number of points. Walking there via the road that leads to the ruins is one alternative. This road also leads to the Sian Kaan Biosphere and Punta Allen. You can also reach Tulum, Mexico Beach via Tulum Pueblo.

It is difficult to categorize Tulum Pueblo. It is neither a small city or a large town. It is where many of the inhabitants of the area who work at the nearby resorts and hotels live. The population is diverse – everyone from computer programmers to dive instructors call this pueblo their home.

Many years ago, Tulum Pueblo was a quiet village located near one of the most well preserved coastal Maya sites. There was limited tourism outside of the ruins. It consisted primarily of a few small shops and cabanas on the beach. Today the town's population is over 10,000. The town now has what is known as the "hotel zone," the strip of Tulum beach that is lined with over 40 small hotels, most of which have been built in the traditional Mayan style. As expected tourists are the primary inhabitants of these hotels; whereas, the pueblo itself is primarily a Mexican town. Some tourists come into Tulum proper to dine in the restaurants and make reverie in the bars.

A beautiful, tranquil Tulum beach in the midst of Mayan ruins, while experiencing a rich Mexican culture is what tourists who visit in Tulum, Mexico will encounter. Just remember to bring your camera to capture your fabulous experience. Since clothing is optional at Tulum beach do not be surprised if you encounter fellow beach goers in the buff or if you decide to throw caution into the wind and take a stroll along the beach in the nude.