Tulum is one of the most prized jewels of the Mexican Caribbean, perhaps on account of its 10 kilometers (6 mi) of white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. It was, after all, deemed worthy of the “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town) designation.

In Tulum, nature is present in all its glory through its lagoons, cenotes (deep natural wells or sinkholes), and beachfront Mayan archaeological site once used as an astrological and trading center. Bike rides through the jungle are a quite common and popular way to explore its myriad wonders. Tulum Bike Tours enhance the experience by taking you to local communities, where you can learn about herbal medicine and handcrafting jewelry from seeds.

Unlike Cancún, Tulum is devoid of enormous, all-inclusive resorts. Instead, it offers small hotels that blend into the jungle; they can be as fancy or as rustic as you desire. We recommend staying at Azulik if you’re traveling with a significant other, as it boasts six wooden suites, swings, and the suspended beds made famous on Instagram. Can you imagine drinking a glass of wine above the jungle canopy, in spaces that resemble giant nests?