Watching the sun
by Lady_Disdain
On the sides of the main temple (the Castillo), there are two small buildings, easily overlooked. They are, however, critical to the site, as they mark the days when the rains start and end.
Since there is little flowing water on the Peninsula, the crops depend on rain to grow and must be planted and tended accordingly. If the rains are late or last too long, food may be scarce.
These small temples mark the start and end of the rainy period. As the picture shows, there is a small hole on the back wall, turned towards the sunrise. On the dawn the sun shines through this, the rains should be expected.
Mexican Independence Day
by wilocrek
September 16th is when Mexico celebrates it independence. In Tulum they hold a very festive celebration in the city park, just off main street. The have lots of local food and entertainment and the party went on for hours. The also had a dance and celebrated with a fireworks display. I found it a fun experience even if I did get a bunch of strange looks from the locals, but it was a neat way to look into their culture. So if your in Tulum on Sept. 16th plan to spend your evening in the park, celebrating another countries independence. Don't worry if they give you the "gringo" look, your peso spends the same as their peso!
Watch out for the Iguana's!
by wilocrek
This scaly lizards roam free and wild all over the grounds in Tulum so keep a sharp eye out for them. They loiter on the paths and in the bushes near the paths as well. They mind their own business and add to the exotic flavor of Tulum!
Taxis
by SJTravel
One of the only ways to get around Tulum is to take a taxi. It is really annoying because it can get costly. They are pretty strict about the fees and they are not that big on bargaining. Basically to get mostly anywhere not within walking distance, it is about 40 Mexican Pesos.
Seafood tip
by TandP77 about Don Huacho
This place specializes in seafood. Really great ceviches, but also fresh fish. They also serve other dishes as well. Service fast and friendly, top value for money.
Ambience - you're in the wrong place. This is a hole in the wall with a view of the auto spares shop opposite.
Important - as with all traditional fish restaurants, this place is only open for lunch, and is shut in the evenings. That way you know that the fish you are eating is absolutely fresh caught that same morning. The Huacho special. A ceviche.