You ever see really nice photos on Instagram and want to go to those places? But then you get frustrated because people don't share their locations, or all the facts about how they got those shots; so you either can't find them or find out that there are restrictions like long wait times or payments that need to be made in order to get the shot?
Don't worry! I got you!
In this post I am going to go over some of the top Instagram spots in Tulum, and I am going to give you all of the details you need to know to get the shot!
My hope for this post is that it inspires your love of travel and that if you are someone who needs help with photo ideas, or locations and facts, that you find value here today! Alright let's get into it!
Mia/Selina Beachclub Entrance
Description: Feel like you are about to embark on an exciting jungle adventure with a shot in front of the iconic Mia & Selina Beachblub Entrance. One of Tulum's most famous Instagram hotspots, I recommend snapping a photo here whether you decide to visit the beachclub or not, it is definitely an eye catcher.
Location Address: Km 7.5, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Location Description: This beachclub is located on Tulum Beach road. If you are coming from Tulum center city, it will be located on the left hand side of the road. It is around the middle of the drive on Tulum Beach road. It is after Tantra, but before Vagalume, so if you see either of those you have a good indicator of where you are in respect to Mia/Selina.
Hours of Operation & Best time to go: Mia Selina Beach club is open 8AM-12AM seven days a week, but you can access the entrance shown here anytime. However, the best time for a photo is early in the morning where there are no crowds, i'd say between 7:30AM-8:30AM. But you can also always snag this shot right before you visit the beach club for the day, just be prepared to maneuver around people also entering the beachclub or walking the streets, as this entrance is on the main street.
Cost: The price of the photo at the entrance is free.
If you are interested in actually visiting the beachclub, that cost can vary. If it is a day where there is an event or party, it is usually $50 USD minimum consumption required. If it is a day where they do not have any events going on, like the day we went, there is no minimum consumption price but in order to stay in the beachclub and be on one of the beds you do need to consume.
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
Mia/Selina offers free valet parking service. The parking lot for it is right before the entrance shown in the photo above. If you are visiting the beachclub this is a really great option as you do not need to worry about where you are leaving your car, and it is right next to the beachclub so it provides easy access whenever you are ready to leave.
Tips:
Have your photos pre-planned. If the set up is the same as when we went a couple months ago, this entrance is on a busy street. That means there a ton of people walking past, and a ton of people actually entering the entrance. If you don't have your photos planned out, it can take a lot longer to get the shot and frustration can build, for you and the passer-byers.
Also, when we went there was a little excursion cart right across the street from this entrance. On a day where we did not have our photos planned out, we took too long standing there and the gentlemen selling excursions came over and began their pitch. We got stuck there for 25 minutes! If you want to avoid this, come in , get the shot and get out (or go in to the beachclub!)
Website: https://www.miatulum.com/en-US
Azulik
Description: Ever wanted to feel like you were in another world? A place full of mystical wonder? Azulik provides you that opportunity. As the perfect blend between nature and architecture, this beautiful museum located on Tulum beach road is a retreat for the soul. Bless your day and your Instagram feed by coming here when you're in town.
Location Address: Carretera Tulum-Punta Allen KM 5, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Location Description: This beautiful museum is located right on Tulum Beach road as well. Again, if you are coming from Tulum Center city, this will be on your left hand side. The entrance is a little tucked behind some plants and vegetation so you will need to keep your eyes peeled. You are looking for a triangle shaped structure, with a bunch of smaller circles on it and a giant circular door. It is located near the Azulik hotel as well. (if my description is sub-par Google does a great job of showing images of the entrance, just keep in mind there is more greenery there now than what the images are showing). This location is towards the beginning of Tulum beach road. If you reach Roc Luxe Hotel, you have already gone too far.
Hours of Operation & Best time to go: Azulik SFER IK hours are 10AM-10PM seven days a week (but be sure to check the website to make sure it does not have any surprise closures on the date of your visit). To get shots where you are not battling the crowds we recommend getting there about half an hour before open. That way you are the first in line to enter and you can get all of the entrance shots, without the backs of other people in your way.
Cost: The price to enter the museum is $10 USD. Children under the age of 13 get free entrance to the museum.
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
Professional Photography (ie. Go pros, cameras, etc) there is a fee of $100 USD to use those (check website for further details)
However, personal phone camera usage is accepted and free
NO SHOES, when you enter you will remove your shoes and leave them on the side of the entrance, sometimes there are baskets to put them into. So don't worry about shoes you're wearing when planning your photo outfit.
Tips:
Stay awhile! A lot of people make the mistake of coming in, staying for half an hour and leaving. The space is small, you may think you have seen it all in that time span but I promise the longer you stay the more you see. Also, people come and go to this space very quickly, so if there is a big crowd and you are having a hard time getting the shot, wait a few moments until the crowd dissipates and then try again.
Do an AM and a PM trip. One of our biggest regrets is not coming back to this place at night. Both beautiful, but offering completely different vibes, we definitely recommend coming back for the variety of shots and the pleasure of the experience.
Website: https://www.sferik.art/
~For a full blog post on this magical place go on over and check out my blog post: Azulik SFER IK. ~
Beach Hut
Description: Ever wanted to sit in a beach hut but couldn't afford a trip to Bail? Don't worry Tulum has got you covered! Tulum offers a really unique vibe when it comes to these beach huts, you feel like a luxurious tropical bird as you perch yourself in one of these nests. Despite offering the perfect Instagram pic, they also offer comfort, an escape from the sun, and a pretty good view of the beach!
Location Address: Km 7.5, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Location Description: This breathtaking beach hut is located at the same spot as our first photo: Mia & Selina Beachclub, however for this shot you need to go past the entrance and actually enter the beachclub. In order to enter the beachclub you will need to consume something, some days there is a consumption minimum, other days there is not. Try snagging a pic with your cocktail in the beach hut for the full experience.
Hours of Operation & Best time to go: Mia Selina Beach club is open 8AM-12AM seven days a week. If you want a photo with less people I would say the earlier you go the the better! But if you don't want to be awake and at a beachclub at 8AM I totally understand. We got to the beachclub around 11:30 and it wasn't too packed, we were able to get the shot. However, if you look in the photo where I am showing the view, you can see other people in it because it was prime beach club hopping time. If you want a photo with no people you need to go early, or have mad photoshopping skills!
Cost: While you don't need to pay for the beach hut specifically, you do need to pay to get access to the beachclub where the hut is located. On days where they are having an event or a show, there may be minimum consumption ratings (usually 50 USD). However, on days where there isn't a lot going on there is usually no minimum consumption rating. It is just expected that in order to be in the beachclub you must consume something.
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
If you are planning on visiting a beachclub in Tulum I feel like you should be warned about the seaweed situation. In the summer months, the seaweed in Tulum is BAD. Like it is everywhere, or at least that was our experience this Summer, and has been my experience the last couple years. I warn you of this because when you are paying for a beach club you are paying for prime beach real estate, and I don't want you to be disappointed if the beach is unuseable that day.
Tips:
To avoid the seaweed situation try to go in the fall and winter months, the seaweed seems to be less of an issue then, but also be sure to check weather in the local area to ensure you are missing hurricane situations
Pro Tip: Ask the hostess at the beachclubs if you can see the beachclub before deciding if you want to stay and spend your money there. You can get a sense of the vibe, the beach, and if it has bonus features like a pool (which Mia/Selina does). Most places will give you a walk through so you can decide for yourself if it is worth your stay.
Website: https://www.miatulum.com/en-US
Kin Toh
Description: Step into a wondrous treehouse full of mystical wonder, beautiful jungle views, and divine cocktails. You will know you arrived as soon you see the beautiful, grand spiral staircase lined with candles. As you reach the top, the smell of Copal will wash over you and cleanse you of all negative energy, as you take in a scene like nothing you have ever seen before. Lounge across beautiful sky nets as you nestle into fluffy pillows and take in your astounding surroundings. Congratulations, you have entered Kin Toh, restaurant and bar, a place that really is something out of this world.
Location Address: Carretera Tulum-Punta Allen KM 5, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
~ To see more photos and hear more details on this amazing place follow @steph_into_the_unknown on Instagram and check out my blog post : Kin Toh the Tree House in the Mayan Jungle That You Must See! ~
Location Description: Kin Toh is a restaurant located in Tulum Beach town. Nestled among the tree tops it not only provides you with amazing local cuisine, but also with unbeatable views. It is right off of the main road, you will see a large wooden sign labeling it easily for you. This location offers a variety of options. You can just go for drinks, which my boyfriend and I did, you can go for dinner on the main level, or you can book one of their exclusive dinners on one of the upper terraces for a higher price. Any of the options are amazing, as they all get you access to this beautiful restaurant that is unlike anything we have ever seen.
Hours of Operation & Best time to go:
Breakfast Hours: 7:30AM-10:30AM
Lunch Hours: 11:00AM-2:30PM
Dinner Hours: 5:30PM-11:30PM
We went during dinner hours and honestly thought it was the best time to go because you were there for sunset. As we said, we just went for drinks and if you are doing that option as well, you need to get in line by 5PM, we did even earlier, around 4:45 PM and there was already a line!
I say this because, there are no reservations for the just drinks option, it is first come first serve. BUT they only let 23 people up in Kin Toh bar at once. So once they meet those 23 people for the day you will have a very difficult time getting in. Get there early, it is worth the wait I promise you.
Cost: If you are just going for drinks, like my boyfriend and I did, it is a $25 USD cover per person. You pay the hostess when you come up the stairs and that charge covers one drink per person. You may choose to consume more once you are there for the cost of those beverages.
If you are going for dinner, check their website (provided below) for their menu, availability, and pricing. We heard that it was fabulous but pricey, which is why we stayed just for drinks.
In addition they do have the higher cost options on their outer and upper terraces. If memory serves me correctly the first level table was for $350 USD, and the top level table was for $900 USD. Those are just the prices for the tables, that does not include food and drink. If you are comfortable spending more money, check out their website to get more information on these options, the views from up there were spectacular and it definitely would be an experience to remember. However, if you are on a budget friendly trip- like we were- the drinks only option was affordable and still got you access to this amazing restaurant.
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
They do offer a champagne and sunset option as well. Rooftop, dj, some light food and some cocktails. If this option appeals to you check out their website for further information.
Tips:
Like I said above, we recommend getting there by 4:45 PM to make line. You don't want to miss out on this experience! Also, out of all of the nets the one to the far left, closest to the bar offers the best view of the jungle!
If you really like the smell of the scent burning in this place, it is called Copal. You can buy it on Amazon! It is how we took a little piece of this place home with us!
If you want to see the nests on top of the roof, but can't afford the $900 table fee. Politely ask the hostess to see if you can just get a tour of it to see what it looks like. Kindness goes a long way and the worst thing that could happen is they say "No, i'm sorry".
Daniel Popper Sculpture
Description: A perfect blend of art and nature the Daniel Popper Sculpture is not only an Instagram hotspot but a breathtaking masterpiece that is a joy to explore. It feels like Tulum is literally opening its heart to you, and as you stand in there you are fully immersed in the culture. Lush greenery, beautiful woodwork, and all of the vibes, it is definitely a must see stop on your next trip to Tulum.
Location Address: QROO 15, Tulum Beach, Q.R., Mexico (this location has moved around a few times, but the most recent location is right next to Raw Love on Tulum Beach Road)
Raw Love Address: Tulum Beach, 77500 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Location Description: This location can be a little tricky to find, especially since the statue has been moved a few times! When in doubt, put in the address for Raw Love and this statue is right next to it! This statue is beautiful, and popular! So you will not be the only one here for photos. It is located on soft sand, and surround by jungle so you really do feel immersed while here. It is right off of the main beach road, and is toward the center of the road, so if you feel like you've been driving forever you have probably gone too far.
Hours of Operation & Best time to go: The sculpture is open from 9:00AM-6:00PM
The best times to go for a photo are when it first opens at 9AM or towards the end of their hours between 5:00-6:00 PM, that is when the least amount of people will be there.
Cost: Although it used to be free to snag a photo here, since its relocation, and growing popularity that is no longer the case. However, have no fear, taking a picture with this glorious sculpture is still one of the most affordable things to do in Tulum. The cost for a photo with this statue is $3.00 USD.
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
If you get there early, there is a shorter line and no one directing it or limiting your time. If you go during one of the busier times of the day, when it is more crowded, not only will the lines be longer but your time will be limited. In an attempt to keep things moving, during the busy times there is usually someone there managing the line. As they manage, they try to limit people's photo times to about 3 min per person. One bonus, they will be able to take pictures of the whole group!
Pro tip: Having your photos pre-planned out will help you get the shot, even under the time restrictions.
Tips:
The sculpture is not the only artwork that is available there , there are also other sculptures and art features that you get to interact with and photograph for the 3 dollars that you spend to take a photo with the Daniel Popper sculpture. I highly recommend taking advantage of this, they are really unique pieces and offer great photo opportunities.
Website: no website available
Matcha Mama
Description: Refresh yourself from the hot Tulum heat with a delicious fruit bowl. Nestled right in the heart of Tulum Beach town you will find a quaint, beach themed place called Matcha Mama. Featuring swings, and the famous I Love Tulum So Matcha surfboard, this place not only offers delicious, healthy snacks, but a plethora of photo opportunities as well. Stop by for some cold coconut water, a fruit bowl, or a smoothie and enjoy the best parts of Tulum!
Location Address:Quintana Roo 15 470 Zona Hotelera • 77780, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Location Description: Although this place is easy to recognize in Instagram photos, it was a bit harder to find in person. This place appears a lot larger on Instagram than it is in real life. If you are driving in from Tulum center city, this destination is going to be on your right hand side, and it is pretty far down the road. We ending up having to park the car in one of the lots and walk to it on foot, because it was further down than any of the parking lots that were offered. You really need to keep an eye out for it! Look for the big surfboard and the yellow sign, those are good landmarks. Also, it is right next to a pharmacy, so that should help you pin-point it as well!
Hours of Operation & Best time to go: Matcha Mama is open 8:00 AM-6:00PM seven days a week .
For the best chance of photos with no one else there, we recommend getting there as close to opening time at 8:00 AM as possible.
They do serve delicious food, so as the day progresses more and more people will show up, which can make those perfect shots more difficult to get.
Cost: While the photos themselves are free, if you are sitting on the swings, posing by the surfboard and enjoying the beautiful space, it is most likely expected for you to purchase something from the Matcha Mama stand. And why wouldn't you! Healthy, delicious and refreshing!? Not to mention it is the perfect addition to your photograph! Therefore, the cost would be of whatever item you choose to order.
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
This location is really close to the Follow Your Dreams sign, but it is actually before it. So if you get to the sign, turn around you have gone too far.
Tips:
Order from the menu, you won't regret it! I ordered the mango tango bowl and it was fabulous! The website below doesn't showcase their menu, google image searches does a good job of showing you what they offer!
Website: http://matchamama.com/
Follow That Dreams Sign
Description: Instagram famous, and inspirational! That is what you get with the Follow That Dream sign in Tulum! Not only is it beautiful for your feed, but it sparks the positivity we could all use a little more of in our lives ! Be sure to grab a shot and help spread some of that positivity in the world.
Location Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila km 8.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Location Description: What you need to know about this sign is that it is actually a part of , or at least directly in front of, a quaint shop called Lolita Lolita Tulum. The shop is lovely, as is the shop owner. Once you have finished with your Instagram photos, be sure to take a look around the shop, there are some lovely pieces of clothing, jewelry, and all things that give you Tulum vibes!
Hours of Operation & Best time to go: The sign does not have a time limit, and is available for photographs 24/7. The shop, Lolita Lolita, has the following hours:
Monday:8AM–8PM
Tuesday:10AM–8PM
Wednesday: 8AM–8PM
Thursday: 8AM–8PM
Friday: 8AM–8PM
Saturday: 8AM–8PM
Sunday: 8AM–8PM
The best time to go for the photo with the sign is early in the morning, and that is for two reasons. First it will not be as hot, so you will have less sweat pouring off of you. There is limited shade in Tulum Beach town ,and that sun gets HOT and sweat is not cute in your photos. Going early in the morning saves you from some of the heat.
Also, there will be less background noise. As you can see, the background of the photo is the road. In the morning, not a lot of people are out and about on Tulum Beach Road. But as the day progresses, many more people begin milling about. That means a lot of cars, bikes, and people will be in the background of your photo.
Cost: The cost of the photo is free. But if you choose to purchase anything from Lolita Lolita, that will cost the amount of whatever item you are choosing to purchase.
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
Sometimes, there will be a gentleman in the nearby palm trees cutting fresh coconuts. If he is there , take full advantage of it and ask for a fresh coconut. It was so refreshing and only cost us a few dollars ! Definitely a unique treat!
Tips:
When we went, there was an open gate with construction going on in the background, if that is still there be sure to look at the shot before snapping it. Angle the camera a little more forward so you don't have the bright blue tarp as a distraction in the background of your photo, or position your body to cover it (see the difference between photo 1 and 2 above) .
Website: While the Follow That Dream has no website Lolita Lolita does, and I have provided it here: https://www.lolitalolitatulum.com/
The Wings
Description: The Daniel Popper isn't the only cool art sculpture in town! Spread those wings and feel like you can fly with these beautiful wooden wings at the art exhibit located right next to the most famous sculpture. Beautifully crafted, and perfectly positioned for a photo, these wings are a must snag shot when visiting Tulum.
Location Address: QROO 15, Tulum Beach, Q.R., Mexico (this location has moved around a few times, but the most recent location is right next to Raw Love on Tulum Beach Road)
Raw Love Address: Tulum Beach, 77500 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Location Description: These wings are actually located somewhere we have already visited before! Remember above when I told you there were many more art features & exhibits next to the Daniel Popper Sculpture? Well, this is one of them! Right to the right of the sculpture, as you are walking away from it you will see these beautifully crafted wings. Be sure to stop by and grab a photo!
Hours of Operation & Best time to go: Seeing as the wings are a part of the exhibit connected to the Daniel Popper Sculpture, their hours are the same: 9:00AM-6:00PM
The best times to go for a photo are when it first opens at 9AM or towards the end of their hours between 5:00-6:00 PM, that is when the least amount of people will be there.
Cost: The 3.00 USD that you pay to get photos with the Daniel Popper Sculpture will also give you access to the wings! Two killer spots for once price! *Plus even more art exhibits!
Bonus Information: Some bonus information & tips if you are interested:
Bonus Information:
Like I said before, the wings are not the only art exhibit featured here. Take a stroll around and explore the area, after you are done with the Daniel Popper Sculpture no one is timing you anymore and you are free to explore.
Tips:
Take a photo both in front of, and behind the wings. You never know which way will look better and it is better to have both options.
Pack outfit changes in your bag! There is a bathroom there if you wanted to change your outfit for different shots, Or wear something that can be easily layered or removed, so it looks like you have different outfits for each art exhibit!
Well, that is it for today! These are just a handful of the best Instagram Spots in Tulum! I will create other posts on more soon! I hope you found value here today! Let me know which one was your favorite! Happy picture snapping!
Until next time,
Steph
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