Tulum is a city that is best known for it's Mayan Ruins, aptly referred to as "Tulum". Navigation is simple; just stay take the highway south.
There are two things you must do if visiting Tulum
- Visit the ruins. It's best to go in the morning since it can get very hot walking around there. There is always the option to jump in the ocean and cool off and continue exploring.
2. Visit Casa Cenote which is actually in Tankah just north of Tulum. Take the Tankah Tres exit off the highway. Mention "Casa Cenote" to the guards at the guard shack and they'll let you in. Casa Cenote is the name of the cute little restaurant across the road from the cenote. It's a nice place to grab a refreshment. Tankah Bay is just beautiful. An offshore reef, at the entrance to the bay, provides a very calm surface and gentle waves.
Some people like to combine their trip to Tulum with a stop at Xel-ha water park. It's a great way to cool off after stomping around the ruins. You can buy excursion packages that include the two stops. They often include lunch and aren't a bad price.
There isn't much to see in the city of Tulum, It's a quick drive through and soon you're in the country. However, you can visit the Sian Kaan biosphere and even volunteer for some eco tourism.