Tulum has long been one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya and the Mexican Caribbean, along with Cancun and Playa del Carmen. However, its popularity has recently declined due to several factors, including the high prices that many visitors have reported.
Fortunately, things are changing. New plans and measures have been introduced to help Tulum recover while addressing the environmental and social challenges affecting the destination. Here is everything you need to know about these positive changes and what Tulum now offers to both Mexican and international visitors.
What Are These New Plans for Tulum?
The Secretaría de Turismo (Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism) has focused on Tulum by introducing new strategies to solve the destination’s current challenges. Authorities listened to both local residents and international visitors who expressed concerns about the high prices charged by many businesses and services in the area.
As part of this tourism recovery plan, some of the biggest changes include new entrance fees for the Tulum Archaeological Zone, improved access to Jaguar Park, and easier access to public beaches that everyone can enjoy.
The Strategic Plan Includes These 10 Actions:
- Free admission to Jaguar Park for Mexican citizens.
- A 50% reduction in admission fees to the Tulum Archaeological Zone through INAH and CONANP. Mexican visitors: MXN $80. International visitors: MXN $265 (about USD $15.50).
- A new electric transportation system inside Jaguar Park.
- A tourist assistance and visitor protection program operated by the National Guard.
- Professional training and certification programs for tourism service providers.
- Construction of a new parking area at the south entrance.
- A public service improvement and urban development plan for the town of Tulum.
- A new public transportation system.
- A national and international tourism promotion campaign.
- A comprehensive program to attract new transportation routes connecting Tulum International Airport with downtown Tulum.
The beaches are also part of these exciting changes. More than 10 beaches have now been opened to the public, giving everyone free access to enjoy Tulum’s beautiful coastline.
At the moment, some beaches in Tulum are experiencing an increase in sargassum because of the seasonal conditions. However, local authorities are working hard to remove it. Their plans include using special sargassum collection boats to stop the seaweed before it reaches the shore and installing barriers to reduce the amount that washes onto the beaches.
Public Beaches in Tulum
For many years, several beaches in Tulum were privately managed, making public access difficult for local residents, Mexican visitors, and international travelers.
One of the main goals of Tulum’s new tourism strategy is to reopen these beaches to everyone by making them public and freely accessible.
Instead of opening only one or two beaches, 10 beach access points are now available free of charge every day. The goal is to allow anyone to enjoy Tulum’s beaches without paying an entrance fee or meeting a minimum spending requirement.
These are the 10 free public beach access points in Tulum:
- South Entrance through Jaguar Park
- Traditional Park Entrance
- Playa del Pueblo
- Playa Conchitas
- Temple Access / Playa Mangle
- Centro de Cultura access / Playa Maya
- Playa Las Palmas Access
- Playa Roca / Playa Pescadores Access
- El Paraíso Access
- Lighthouse (Faro) Access
Tulum’s Beaches Are for Everyone!
Tulum Archaeological Zone and Future Plans
The Tulum Archaeological Zone is truly one of a kind. Just imagine exploring ancient Maya ruins right next to the Caribbean Sea. Isn’t that magical? It is an unforgettable experience!
The best part is that you no longer have to pay high entrance fees to visit this amazing site. Ticket prices have been reduced by up to 50%, making it much more affordable for everyone.
Another exciting update is that the Tulum Archaeological Zone’s light show is expected to return in November, giving visitors the chance to enjoy this unique nighttime experience once again.
Safety in Tulum
Lower prices and better beach access are not the only improvements. Visitor safety is also an important part of Tulum’s new plan.
The goal is to provide better assistance and protection for tourists through a new program led by the National Guard. The plan also includes certification programs for tourism service providers, improvements to public services for local residents, and the creation of a new public transportation system.
Visit Tulum in 2026
Tulum is moving in a positive direction for everyone, including international visitors, Mexican travelers, and local residents. With these new strategies, the destination aims to become one of the top places to visit in the Riviera Maya and the Mexican Caribbean once again.
You will no longer have to worry as much about high prices or visitor safety. These new changes are designed to improve the overall travel experience and make Tulum more welcoming for everyone.
In addition, new air routes and better transportation between Tulum International Airport and downtown Tulum are expected in the near future, making it even easier to visit this beautiful destination.