Tulum’s New Beach Access Divides Tourism Leaders

Tulum, Mexico — The opening of new free public access points to the beaches of Tulum within the Jaguar Park has generated mixed opinions among industry representatives. While the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) celebrated the measure as an advancement in public access to natural heritage, business leaders warned that it is a limited step if not accompanied by a comprehensive strategy to guarantee urban order, a clear tourism vision, and sustainable development.

Business Sector Calls for Tourism Planning in Tulum's Beaches

Sergio León Cervantes, president of Empresarios por Quintana Roo, considered the measure a momentary palliative that does not solve the underlying problem.

“The beaches are free everywhere, but who goes to the Jaguar Park? We must begin to give preference and form to each of our destinations,” he expressed, pointing to a lack of planning and a tourism policy based on geography, population, and global trends.

He emphasized that Quintana Roo must bet on more diverse or focused market segments and gave as an example that, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism (Sectur), the annual spending of Jewish tourism in the country is estimated at more than 20 billion pesos. He also highlighted that sustainability certifications for hotels and food increase quality and visitor satisfaction.

León Cervantes further warned that disorderly construction, such as what has been permitted in Tulum and Puerto Morelos, puts the essence of the destinations and their environmental balance at risk.

Opening Viewed Positively, But Challenges Acknowledged

For his part, Lenin Amaro Betancourt, southeast coordinator of the National Association of Regional Business Councils (Ancer), considered the opening positive, although he indicated it implies a significant challenge.

“The intention does not depend solely on the government. If one or several actors fail, the expected results will not be achieved. There must be accessibility for all types of tourism, not just for those with high purchasing power,” he stated.

He emphasized that it is fundamental for the business sector in Tulum to join in synergy to reinforce visitor service, an aspect which he assured has been gradually lost.

Improving the Visitor Experience

He added that it is necessary to improve tourism infrastructure in the public areas of Tulum, as well as on the parallel and transverse streets, through joint work between authorities and the private sector.

Meanwhile, the president of the Mexican Caribbean Hotel Council, David Ortiz Mena, agreed that the primary objective must be to improve the visitor experience.

“We had a bad summer and a difficult September, but Tulum will continue to be a marvelous destination that offers more than sun and beach. We have wellness, gastronomy, and a campaign with a new image will be launched soon,” he stated.