THE BEACHES

The Caribbean beaches in Tulum are noted as some of the most beautiful in the world. They are wide and long, with unobstructed views for miles. The sand is called “sugar sand” because of the fine, soft feel under your feet. It never gets hot and is perfect for long barefoot walks. Many people find the beach here irresistable and end up spending their entire vacation relaxing by the water's edge.

CENOTES

Within the Tulum area are found some of the most beautiful and unusual natural wonders - cenotes (say-NOH-tays) or sink holes. Cenotes have served as the main source of freshwater for the people of the Yucatan for centuries. The peninsula is a porous limestone shelf with no visible rivers; all rivers are underground and are connected in an intricate network that links the cenotes to each other through caves and caverns.

Cenotes are created wherever the fresh water collects. There are four different types of cenotes - completely underground, semi-underground, land level, and open wells. Within the cave cenotes, beautiful stalactites and stalagmites form. In many semi underground cenotes, holes in the ceiling allow the sunlight to filter in, giving the scene a magical feeling.

In the Yucatán there are over 3000 cenotes. The best known are the crystal blue waters of the Gran Cenote, the Crystal Cenote and Dos Ojos. Many other small, peaceful cenotes dot the jungle. Many are open to the public for swimming, diving and enjoying.

TULUM PUEBLO

Although Mayab Center feels completely remote and removed from civilization, we are located only about 15 minutes from Tulum pueblo. This small town is changing and growing rapidly due to the increased tourism in the area over the last few years, but it still small enough that you may to walk the entire length of Avenida Tulum and shop for hammocks and other local handicrafts, or sample local cuisine in one afternoon.