Tulum
A 30th Birthday Celebration - Sunshine, Mezcal, and Nonstop Laughter
Turning 30 in Tulum might go down as one of my favorite trips ever. We had so much fun. Days at beach clubs, nights dancing, and an Airbnb that felt like our own little paradise. Every day was pure chaos in the best way - laughter, music, tequila, repeat.
The Ultimate 30th Birthday Trip
One of my best friends and I share the same birthday, so when the big 3-0 came around, there was zero chance we were letting it pass quietly. We decided we needed to go big - like, tropical, matching-outfits, champagne-popping big. Tulum was the only destination I had in mind. I’d heard nonstop about the beach clubs, the food, and the energy, and I just knew that was the vibe. We wrangled nine girls together and I booked the most insane Airbnb — huge pool, open-air living spaces, and enough bathrooms to (barely) survive nine girls getting ready at once. The first night, we kept it chill with a private chef who made us dinner and drinks by the pool, pretending it wasn’t just the calm before the storm.
Yacht Days & Endless Nights
The next morning we hit the ground running. After a quick breakfast we headed out for our private yacht day. Picture nine girls on a boat, music blasting, everyone dancing, laughing, and living their best lives. That night, we got all dressed up and went to Rosanegra for dinner, which very quickly turned into club number one of the trip. The lights, the music, the drinks - it was chaotic in the best way. We made new friends, stayed out way too late, and probably danced more than we did in all of 2024 combined.
Beach Clubs & Birthday Chaos
The next day started slow… and rightfully so. We spent the morning “recovering” at beach clubs (if you can call ordering margaritas recovering) and somehow ended up right back in full celebration mode by sunset. We had a birthday dinner at Gitanos - incredible food, amazing atmosphere - and then went full send to see Diplo with our new friends from the night before. We stayed out until 4AM, still in disbelief that this was our real life. It was one of those nights you know you’ll talk about for years.
Recovery & Reflection
By day four, the group collectively hit a wall. So, we did what any responsible adults would do - booked in-home massages and called it “self-care.” A few of the girls still rallied and explored the cenotes, but most of us parked ourselves by the pool with snacks, iced coffee, and zero regrets. That night, our private chef came back for a farewell dinner that was somehow even better than the first. We laughed, reminisced, and agreed that this was the kind of trip that recharges your soul - even if you need a week of sleep to recover from it.
Now that you've heard my Tulum story, keep reading for my top tips and recommendations!
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit:
November through April is ideal - warm, sunny, and less humid.
May through October is technically hurricane season, but also means fewer crowds and better deals if you don’t mind a little rain.
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). It’s smart to carry some pesos for taxis, tips, and smaller spots.
How to Get There: Fly into Cancún International Airport - it’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Tulum. I highly recommend booking a private shuttle/driver.
Getting Around: Having a private driver is the way to go. Taxis/rideshares are also easy to find but can get pricey, especially at night. If you’re staying close to the beach or downtown, renting bikes or scooters is a good option.
Good to Know: Tulum is split between the beach zone (where most hotels and restaurants are) and town (more local, affordable, and authentic). Plan to spend time in both for the full experience. We stayed in the town but spent most of our days on the beach. One gives you the jungle luxury, the other gives you the real heart of Tulum.
Accommodations
Hemma Boutique Villa Tulum - A dream setup for a big group! The villa was stunning, spacious, and designed with airy, modern interiors and tons of space to relax, get ready, or just lounge in style.
Highlights:
6 spacious bedrooms and sleek, open-concept living areas
Two private pools and multiple spa-style soaking tubs
Beautiful minimalist design with tropical touches throughout
Fun & Unique Experiences
Yacht Day - It’s one of the best ways to see the turquoise water and celebrate in true Tulum fashion. Because who doesn't enjoy partying on a yacht on vacation?!
Cenotes - Natural freshwater caves that are perfect for swimming and cooling off. They’re everywhere around Tulum.
ATV Adventures - A fun way to explore the jungle trails just outside town.
Mayan Ruins - You can visit the Tulum Ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea - it’s beautiful, easy to access, and makes for a perfect morning adventure before the heat kicks in.
Restaurants & Food Picks
We went out a lot in Tulum and every night was somehow more fun than the last. Between the music, the food, and the energy, every spot felt like its own little party. The food and drinks were so good - every dinner turned into dancing, and every night out turned into a memory.
Breakfast & Brunch
Rossina Café - Great coffee, fresh pastries, and a relaxed local feel.
Matcha Mama - The go-to for smoothie bowls and cute photo ops.
Beach Clubs & Dinner/Nightlife
Rosanegra - Dinner that turns into a full-blown party with performers, sparklers, and the best energy.
Gitano - Dreamy jungle setting with candlelight, cocktails, and music that keeps the night going.
Taboo - Stunning beachfront restaurant that turns into a lively dinner party as the sun sets.
Bagatelle - The definition of a good time - brunch, bubbles, and beach club vibes that go all day.
Vagalume - Club vibes and a late-night DJ sets that never miss.
MIA Night Party - One of the wildest spots to dance all night right on the beach - pure Tulum energy.
Ilios - Upscale Greek restaurant with incredible food, live entertainment, and tables that turn into dance floors.
BAK Steakhouse - High-end dinner spot known for amazing steaks, moody lighting, and club-style energy.
