I spent several dreamy days in Tulum, Mexico, filled with beach lounging, cenote swimming, and cultural adventures. And if you know me, you know I had to do it all in style!
If you're wondering what to wear in Tulum or looking for relatable Tulum outfit inspo, you're in the right spot. This guide walks you through everything I packed from Tulum, the outfits I actually wore (plus a few that didn't make it out of my suitcase), and what you should know about picking Tulum outfits that fit the vibe before you go.
And if you enjoy this article, you'll love my Mexico vacation look book, too!
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What's the Tulum vibe?
Tulum isn’t your average beach town. Think beachy bohemian meets luxury jungle retreat. From laying out at beach clubs to having dinner in the jungle, most folks I saw looked relaxed yet put together.
Once you arrive, you'll notice that the local style is very laid-back and conscious of comfort. The hippie vibes are strong so expect to see tie-dye, tattoos, and earth-toned natural fabrics--if you've ever been to Austin, Texas, the aesthetic is similar.
You'll see a mix of breezy linen clothing in neutral tones, crochet dresses and two-piece sets, flowy all-white Tulum vacation outfits, and earthy, boho-chic Tulum-inspired attire with lots of color and texture. Even at night, people were pretty casual.
Pro Travel Tip
The humidity in Tulum is real (not too different from a Houston summer, honestly). Prioritize light, breathable natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and gauze.
Copy my solo Tulum itinerary to make your trip planning process easy peasy!
Tulum Packing Checklist
What to pack for Tulum: You'll get sweaty so aim for two changes of clothes for each full day. For a long weekend four-day trip, I packed eight outfits, excluding travel clothes. I recommend grabbing items from the list below to mix and match for different activities.
Breezy Tops and Shorts made from natural fabrics to keep cool.
Bug Spray is necessary--trust me! As an organic girlie, I like this natural mosquito repellant balm.
Comfortable Walking Shoes - I like platform Tevas because they have great grip and go with everything.
Maxi and Midi Dresses or co-ord sets if you want to dress up for dinner.
Sandals or Slides--one comfortable pair for walking during the day and one stylish pair for nightlife activities.
Sun Hat because the Tulum sun is no joke. I take this XL visor on every beach trip because it shades my entire face and neck and actually looks cute!
Sunglasses plus floating retainer straps so you don't lose your shades in the water!
Sunscreen for a healthy glow. I love this mineral sunscreen because it doesn't leave a weird cast on my melanin-rich skin or you can purchase sunscreen upon arrival if you want to be double-sure that it's reef safe.
Swimsuits and Cover-ups for each day in town because every day is a beach day in Tulum.
Water Shoes for your Tulum cenote outfit because the rocks are slippery and falling is easy. Ask me how I know!
I fit all of my Tulum-inspired looks into just a carry on. Here's my carry-on only packing method!
Essentials
Backpack or Waterproof Bag for active adventures. This is my favorite travel backpack because of the endless compartments. And here's the waterproof backpack I use, which comes in multiple sizes and color!
Crossbody or Bum Bag so you can have your belongings accessible but safe from pickpockets near busy tourist attractions like Las Ruinas.
Cash - Many restaurants and establishments are cash only and some only take pesos. USD are widely accepted, however the exchange rates can vary. Exchange cash for pesos at the airport or at one of the many shops in town for the smoothest experience.
Power Bank to stay charged up during long days out seeing the sights.
Travel-Sized Versions of any skincare, haircare, and cosmetics you'll need in a tropical climate. For my fellow thick-thighed ladies, pack an anti-chafe stick and thank me later.
What Not to Wear in Tulum
High Heels are not needed unless you like letting your stilettos sink into the sand. If you really want to wear heels for dinner dates, pack a pair of wedges or block heels.
Jeans are not forbidden or outside the Tulum dress code but it's too hot for them in my opinion. Opt for loose linen pants instead.
Plug Converter is not a wearable item but it is something you can leave at home because Mexican hotels, Airbnbs, etc. use the same power outlets we do in the United States.
Tulum Mexico Outfit Ideas
I styled a mix of Tulum aesthetic outfits for everything from beach club hopping to walking the ruins. Here's a breakdown of my wardrobe, plus links and style tips:
And after the Tulum Ruins, you have to hit up Playa Ruinas! So wear a bathing suit underneath.
Here's everything you need to know about experiencing the Tulum Mayan Ruinas and Hidden Beach.
Check out all my favorite restaurants in Tulum to make your trip the most delicious!
All you need to wear is a cute bikini and water shoes for the cenotes. You'll have to rinse off before getting in and I highly recommend doing so again afterward so don't bother with bug spray and sunscreen.
Read my guide to visiting Tulum cenotes!
A maxi dress with cut-outs paired with statement earrings is the perfect Tulum jungle dinner look! Here are similar options:
I always pack something cute to lounge in because I want to be an entirely different person on vacation. This silk romper is sold out but here are similar ones:
Not sure where to stay in Tulum? Read my boutique hotel Tulum review!
I hope this Tulum outfits look book helps you have the most stylish vacation ever. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
