Tulum, is about 1 1/2 - 2 hours south of Cancun (around 80 miles as I recall).  As far as I know these are the only Mayan ruins which are built as a walled city and also the only ruins I know of overlooking the ocean.  The site is from a later era of Mayan civilization, not as old as Chichen Itza or Palenque (which may explain the need for fortifications, coming from a period of decline). 

While close enough to Cancun for a day trip, there is plenty around the area to justify staying nearby for a day or two (or more).  The ruins are on the edge of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Here there are undisturbed rain forests and beaches, harder to access but with the pristine environment to warrant the effort. 
Also nearby is the Xelha park, a natural aquarium where fresh water meets sea water in an enclosed lagoon where the snorkeling is spectacular (assuming you arrive there early enough to beat the Cancun tour buses whose hoards of passengers will undoubtedly stir up the water!). 

Also within a short driving distance are the ruins at Coba... but we didn't make it there on this trip. 



The Central Plaza... 

One of the corner lookouts on the outside wall.  >>


Some tourist enjoying the nice day and the view of the surf...

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Last Updated May 15, 1999 by Jonathan Bales