At first sight, you may think that only a handful of countries drive on the left-hand side of the road. It may surprise you to hear that there are over 60 countries that drive on the left! That’s roughly a third of all countries in the world!
It’s crucial to know what side of the road to drive on, especially if you’re visiting a country for the first time. Driving “on the wrong side of the road” may seem a little scary at first but you should be able to get the hang of it fairly quickly.
A quick tip: If you’ve never driven on the left side of the road before, you may want to get an automatic instead of a manual car.
These countries are scattered all across the planet.
Why Do Some Countries Even Drive On The Left?
First of all, let’s understand why nearly a third of all countries in the world drive on the left side of the road. It’s time for a quick history lesson.
Let’s go back a few hundred years, way before cars were even a thing and people used horses as a primary source of transportation. Back then, horse riders in the UK would ride on the left-hand side of the road. This meant that their right hand was unobstructed. That way, they could easily access their swords and always had a free hand to greet passersby.
In America, on the other hand, a wagon led by two horses was a very popular setup. Riders would sit on the horse on the left-hand side, leaving their right hand free to whip the other horse when necessary. As the wagon was usually pulled by two horses, riding on the right-hand side of the road provided better visibility.
The trends carried over when people started switching from horse-drawn carriages to cars. As a result, most countries influenced by the UK still drive on the left-hand side of the road to this day. Roughly 70% of the world drives on the right.
Without further ado, let’s jump into the list of countries!
African Countries That Drive On The Left
A total of 15 countries in Africa have traffic on the left side of the road. These include the well-known tourist hotspots, such as Mauritius, Seychelles, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa. Keep this in mind when renting a car there.
Botswana
Kenya
Lesotho
Malawi
Mauritius
Mozambique
Namibia
South Africa
Swaziland
Tanzania
Uganda
Saint Helena
Seychelles
Zambia
Zimbabwe
A busy intersection in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
American Countries That Drive On The Left
As previously mentioned, there aren’t any countries that drive on the left in North America. However, the same cannot be said about the Caribbean. In fact, 19 countries in Central and South America drive on the left side of the road. You may be surprised to hear that this includes the US Virgin Islands!
Anguilla
Antigua and Barbuda
Bahamas
Barbados
Bermuda
Cayman Islands
Dominica
Falkland Islands
Grenada
Guyana and Suriname
Jamaica
Montserrat
Saint Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
Turks and Caicos Islands
British Virgin Island
US Virgin Islands
A colorful street, Cayman Islands
Asian Countries With Left-Hand Traffic
15 countries in Asia drive on the left side of the road. If you’re planning to go to Bali, drive across Malaysia, rent a car in Singapore, or any of the other countries listed below, be ready to drive on the left. The traffic culture may seem a little chaotic in some Asian countries!
4 European countries have traffic on the left-hand side of the road. Europe is the continent with the fewest amount of countries with left-hand side traffic. Aside from Antarctica and North America that don’t have any, that is.
Last, but certainly not least, is Oceania. Most travelers know that Australia and New Zealand both drive on the left. However, a whopping 14 countries on this continent drive on the left-hand side of the road.
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Looking for the best beaches in Croatia? We’re here to help! Check out 20+ of our favorite destinations for beachgoers in Croatia.
We’ve grouped these beaches based on their locations. This travel guide is divided into the following sections (you can click the links below to quickly jump to each one)
Note that while most of the beaches along the Adriatic Sea are either pebble or fine gravel, we’ve also hand-picked some of our favorite sandy beaches in Croatia. These are a lot harder to come by, though. The beach type is written in bold letters for every beach on our list.
You can also check out all of the best beaches in Croatia using the interactive map below.
Without further ado, let’s dive into some of the best beaches in this part of Europe!
We kick off our list with a hidden gem near the resort town of Pula, at the Northern tip of Croatia. Like most beaches in the country, Brioni is a rocky beach. Some parts are paved for easier access, however.
The proximity to touristic resorts makes Brioni Beach the perfect spot for watersports and activities for the entire family. You can also go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters, all under daily lifeguard supervision. This is the ideal alternative when the nearby Hawaii Beach gets too busy.
Hawaiian Cove Beach, Pula
Hawaiian Cove Beach, often simply called the Hawaiian Beach, is perhaps the most popular one near the resort town of Pula. This pebble beach is surrounded by rocks from both sides, making for a very pretty and cozy setting.
Nearby facilities are plentiful. After all, Pula is a resort town full of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. You can easily spend the entire day here!
Don’t miss the nearby Verudela Canyon, too.
Pinizule Beach, Premantura
This gorgeous beach is an absolute must when visiting the Kamenjak National Park. It lies just a short drive south of Pula. This is another gorgeous pebble beach that tends to get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
This beach is rather cozy and there isn’t too much space. It’s best to come here early in the morning to get the best spot and beat the crowds. The local snack bar is the perfect spot to recharge your batteries, cool down in the shade, or grab a quick bite.
Klancac Beach
This gorgeous pebble beach is located roughly an hour out of Rijeka. Visiting Klancac Beach is well worth it, even for the drive itself. The coastal road from Rijeka is one of the best drives in this part of Croatia.
Klancac Beach is a little pebble cove, surrounded by rocks and wonderful scenery. There aren’t any amenities here, so make sure to bring your own snacks and water. Despite not having any facilities, this beach can still get pretty crowded during peak season.
Sveti Ivan Beach
by Tim Ertl
Let’s get one thing straight- this gorgeous beach is not easy to access. You’ll have to drop your rental car off at the hilltop car park and then make your way to the coast on foot. It may not sound too appealing to most tourists, making Sveti Ivan rather calm and not overcrowded.
The hike is well worth it, though. This pebble beach is renowned for its gorgeous natural setting and turquoise waters, ideal for a dip or snorkeling. There are no amenities here whatsoever. It’s just you and nature, enjoy!
Mali Bok
by Tim Ertl
When it comes to accessibility, Mali Bok Beach is similar to the Sveti Ivan Beach mentioned above. Both beaches require a bit of a walk to reach. In fact, the two beaches lay directly opposite each other!
Once again, those who decide to take the hike will be rewarded with a gorgeous, secluded pebble beach. Mali Bok is a popular tourist spot despite its remote location, so it’s best to arrive early and get the best spot.
You can drop your car off at the hilltop car park and then make your way down to the coast. The walk should take under half an hour each way. Mali Bok does not have any amenities onsite.
Kacjak Beach
This pebble beach is one of the top picks among locals and tourists alike. Kacjak Beach lies just a few kilometers up north from Dramalj.
This spot features affordable sunbeds, a waterfront snack bar, a shop, and plenty of space for everyone. Kids can spend time at the floating water park, or play a round of mini-golf. Kacjak Beach is the perfect spot for a fun-filled day with the entire family.
Oprna Bay- Stara Baska
This is by far the nicest beach on Krk, a Croatian island in the Northern part of the country. Oprna Bay, also referred to as Stara Baska, is a quiet pebble cove which is the epitome of a dreamy beach on the Adriatic Sea.
Despite the remote setting of the beach, you can still rent sunbeds and umbrellas from the local bar to enjoy some shade. Note that there isn’t any car park here. You’ll need to drop your car off at the side of the road, as mentioned by Hitched to Travel, and walk on down to the coast.
Paradise Beach
Paradise is easily the most appropriate word to describe this gorgeous beach. This is a relatively wide sandy beach, which is quite rare in Croatia. If you’re looking for soft sand rather than pebbles somewhere in the Northern Adriatic Sea, this is the spot!
The beach stretches for 2 kilometers, there’s enough space for everyone. It’s also packed with fun things to do and amenities of all kinds, including beach volleyball, parasailing, and even parties once dusk falls.
Reaching Paradise Beach is a bit of an adventure in itself, as the beach is located on a small island. You can drive down the coast, south from Rijeka, and hop on the ferry in Stinica. Alternatively, you can hop on a ferry from Krk Island and drive across Rab Island till you reach Paradise Beach.
Party animals take notes, Zrce Beach is known for its clubs. Lots of different festivals take place here throughout the year. Partygoers can enjoy the music, and then cool off in the crystal-clear waters of this gorgeous pebble beach.
You can check the list of upcoming festivals and events on the Zrce Beach website. This party hotspot lies around halfway between Rijeka and Split, and just an hour drive away from Zadar.
Kraljicina Beach
Kraljicina Beach, which translates to Queen’s Beach, is one of the best sandy beaches in all of the Adriatic Sea. This dreamy destination stretches for around 8 kilometers, full of soft golden sand and plenty of activities.
What makes Kraljicina Beach so special, apart from its jaw-dropping natural setting and soft sand, is the proximity to the largest mud springs in the country. You can go for a mud treatment first, and then cool off in the turquoise waters of the sea. As this is a gorgeous lagoon, the waters are calm and free from strong currents.
Sakarun Beach
Once you arrive at Sakarun Beach, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled somewhere to the Caribbean. Make no mistake, this spot is truly special. This sandy beach looks like something out of a fantasy. Soft sand, crystal-clear waters and a gorgeous natural setting all make this one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Croatia.
The beachline of this gorgeous lagoon stretches for about a kilometer. You can grab a meal at one of the two waterfront restaurants and make use of other amenities, such as showers and locker rooms to store your belongings. Expect this spot to get crowded during peak season.
Podvrske Beach
Podvrske Beach is a dream-like pebble beach near Zadar, roughly an hour’s drive south of the city. It’s renowned for its unique oval shape. There’s a sandy beach directly on the other side of the cove, too. That way, you get the best of both worlds.
You can grab a quick bite to eat at the local snack bar, too. Those who love this area so much can spend the night at the nearby campground.
Travelers who enjoy combining a beachday with city life need to visit Mala Raduca Beach. This pebble beach is located in the heart of Primosten, a colorful town on the Croatian coast. It may not be the biggest, though it surely is one of the most vibrant beaches ideal for people watching.
Mala Raduca Beach is favored among locals, especially those who live in Primosten. The town itself is home to various local eateries, bars, and other cool places to hang out.
Stiniva Beach
Dronepicr
This is it- one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Stiniva Beach is an absolute must-visit. It’s located on Vis Island, and the best way to access it is by boat, for example on a boat tour from Split.
This pebble cove is surrounded by dramatic cliffs. As a result, you won’t need any umbrellas as there’s natural shade here. The opening between the two cliffs is just a few meters wide, making the waters calm and free from rapid tides and large waves. After a day at the beach, you can enjoy a meal at the local tavern right off the coast.
Velika Beach
Yet another sandy beach in this part of Croatia. Travelers who come to Velika Beach can expect lots of space, umbrellas, sunbeds, and plenty of attractions and amenities. Once dusk falls, you can cross the street and pop by one of the waterfront bars and eateries. This is also one of the best spots for watersports near Split.
Note that the sand here is fine, and not exactly the soft kind you would expect at the Caribbean. Nonetheless, it can be a good break from all the pebble beaches in the area.
Golden Horn Beach
If you were to only visit one beach during your time in Croatia, it should be this one. Golden Horn Beach is one of the most legendary beaches in all of the Adriatic, and our personal favorite beach in Croatia.
Contrary to popular belief, this beach is not sandy. Instead, the coast is covered in very fine gravel. The texture is quite similar to sand, and it is easy to confuse at first sight. Golden Horn Beach lies just two kilometers away from the port in Bol, where restaurants and shops are plentiful.
Punta Rata
Punta Rata is quite a unique beach. The shore is pebble, though once you enter the water you’ll notice that the seafloor becomes sandy.
This award-winning beach has received the Blue Flag for its clear waters. The local beach bar serves quick bites and drinks, as well as ice cream. Activities available here include a selection of watersports, tennis, volleyball, and even indoor football.
Makarska Beach
The Makarska Riviera is one of the most famous destinations among beachgoers in all of Croatia. This part of the Adriatic coast is famous for its gorgeous natural setting and quiet pebble coves surrounded by dramatic coastline. The beach with the same name is arguably the best one here. Note that it is also one of the most popular ones in the area, so expect plenty of people enjoying Makarska Beach during the summer.
The Makarska Beach is a vibrant city beach that’s bound to be full of life whenever you go. The pebble shore stretches for kilometers, and the seemingly endless beach is full of activities and amenities. After a day at the beach, you can stroll over into the city and enjoy the best of what this region has to offer.
Dubrovnik is often called the city of caves for a reason. Tourists who come here can enjoy a drink at a cave bar, sleep in a cave hotel, and even spend a day at the magical pebble Betina Cave Beach. This may not be the biggest beach in the country, but it sure is one of the most unique and best beaches in Croatia!
Betina Cave Beach is by far one of the most difficult ones to reach, despite being situated near the heat of Dubrovnik. It can only be accessed by water- you’ll need a boat to get here. The magical setting inside of a cave, as well as the unbeatable privacy makes this very worthwhile, though.
Banje Beach
Looking for the best beach club in Croatia? Or perhaps a beachside restaurant, as opposed to a pretty basic snackbar that can be found at most public beaches? Either way, Banje Beach in Dubrovnik is worth at least a short visit!
The upscale restaurant and beach club is what makes Banje Beach stand out from the crowd. Come here after dusk falls and enjoy one of the wildest parties in Dubrovnik, or unwind during the day and go for a swim in the gorgeous waters of the Adriatic. This is the place to party in town, both day and night.
Divna Beach
Divna Beach is one of those postcard-like, perfect beaches in all of Croatia. The color of the water is simply unbelievable and it will surely amaze you every single time you come to this beach.
The pebble shore stretches for a few hundred meters, there’s plenty of space to sunbathe. Don’t let the nearby trees fool you, there isn’t any natural shade here nor sunbeds available for rent- you’ll have to bring your own. You can purchase basic foods and drinks at the local snack bar.
Sunj Beach
It really doesn’t get much better than this. Many travelers would argue that Sunj Beach is one of the best beaches in Croatia. After all, this gorgeous spot seems to be the perfect balance between a secluded spot and a vibrant one. Sunj offers a little bit of both!
You’ll need to hop on a boat from Dubrovnik to reach Sunj Beach, as it’s situated on Lopud Island. A sandy shore, calm tides and plenty of amenities draw in hundreds of tourists every day. There’s also a naturist section of the beach up on the left-hand side of the cove, if that’s your thing.
Bonus- Rent A Car In Croatia
Getting a rental car is hands-down the best way of getting around all of the best beaches in Croatia. You could even extend your holiday and go on a grand road trip across the Balkans all the way down to Montenegro.
Be sure to rent a car for this trip via Rentalmoose. Choose from over 15 000 locations worldwide, we only offer rental cars from trusted and verified suppliers.
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The Pacific Coast Highway is hands-down one of the most legendary drives in the entire world. Check out some of the absolute must-visit spots along this famous road.
Pacific Coast Highway- Before You Leave
What Time Of The Year Is Best To Drive The PCH
The best time to do the Pacific Coast Highway drive is anywhere from early spring to late fall. Note that the highway is at its absolute busiest during the hottest summer months. Head here in either spring or fall to beat the crowds.
Which Direction To Drive The Pacific Coast Highway
We recommend driving along the PCH southbound. Primarily because that way you’ll always be closer to the coast. That way, you can enjoy the gorgeous views without being obstructed by oncoming traffic. Most of the overlooks and vista points are located by the coast, and making a right turn when heading southbound is simply more convenient.
What’s more, . However, this all boils down to personal preference. No matter whether you choose to start up north in San Francisco or down in LA, you can rent a car for a one-way rental and drop it off in the other city. Unless you choose to extend the trip and head inland to some of the glorious spots across California, Nevada, or Utah.
Must-Visit Places Along The Pacific Coast Highway
Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section of the travel guide.
Colorful murals in Chinatown with the famous Transamerica Pyramid visible in the distance.
Your Pacific Coast Highway road trip begins (or finishes?) in the charming city of San Francisco. If you have the time, it’s definitely worth exploring San Francisco for a few days before heading further. You can check out our California Road Trip Guide to see our favorite must-see attractions in town. Don’t miss the Transamerica Pyramid, Chinatown, and a boat tour to Alcatraz.
Rentalmoose insider tip: Smash-and-grab break-ins remain painfully popular in San Francisco. Remember to keep all valuables outside of your rental car. Leaving phones, bags, and electronics in plain sight encourages thieves to try their luck.
Devil’s Slide Trail
Devil’s Slide. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
As you head southbound along Highway 1 out of San Francisco, stop at the Devil’s Slide. This gorgeous promontory is the first of many dramatic landscapes you’re about to see during your drive down the PCH.
The name of this spot is not accidental- there’s a paved pedestrian path here that used to be a part of the Pacific Coast Highway.
Quick history lesson: Devil’s Slide was famous for its frequent closures caused by landslides. The road was shut down for good in 2013, but major landslides caused disruptions as early as the 1930s. Today, pedestrians and bicyclists can enjoy a hike down the former part of Highway 1, while cars have to use the Tom Lantos Tunnels instead.
It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs before driving further.
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr
As you continue along the dramatic coastline, leaving Devil’s Slide behind, allocate plenty of time to stop at countless overlooks to admire the scenery. Don’t rush this drive- it’s best to leave San Francisco in the morning and prepare to spend the entire day driving down this Scenic Byway. Afterall, Pacific Coast Highway is considered one of the best roads in the world.
Don’t miss the Pigeon Point Lighthouse- a landmark roughly halfway between Devil’s Slide and Santa Cruz. The Pigeon Point Viewpoint parking lot is easy to miss- it’ll be on the right side if you’re driving from San Francisco, just a few hundred yards after a slight left bend. You can leave your car there and walk for better views of the lighthouse, too.
Santa Cruz
As you continue further south, the Pacific Coast Highway will lead you to the iconic town of Santa Cruz. A stop here is an absolute must, even if it’s only for a quick photo or two.
You’ll quickly notice that Santa Cruz has this classic Californian surf town vibe. Take it all in at the vibrant downtown, or head down to Cowell Beach and stroll down the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. You can park your rental car directly on the Santa Cruz Wharf ($1 per hour).
Monterey
Bixby Creek Bridge at the Big Sur- roughly half an hour south of Monterey along the PCH
Monterey is a famous coastal town just a short drive south of Santa Cruz. You won’t miss it- the Pacific Coast Highway passes right through Monterey.
If you have the time, do consider driving down the scenic 17-Mile Drive. This scenic drive has 17 different overlooks that offer breathtaking coastal views. Note that it costs around $10 to enter this road unless you spend over $35 at local resorts at Pebble Beach.
You can also drop by the Monterey Harbor right in the heart of this cute town, although we do prefer the one in Santa Cruz. Cannery Row has some of the best local eateries.
Auto fans should definitely pop by the Monterey Car Week. This week-long car show takes place every summer, during which you can admire some of the world’s most elegant cars, both classic and modern, at various events in the area.
Big Sur
Big Sur is the main reason why so many tourists flock to the Pacific Coast Highway each year. This picturesque region of California is located roughly halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, and Highway 1 will take you right across it. Photos really don’t do it justice. These landscapes are simply incredible.
The Big Sur is also why we recommend driving down the PCH southbound. You’ll be directly by the coast. That way, you can expect unobstructed views of all these scenic spots on your road trip.
Don’t miss a photo opportunity at the legendary Bixby Creek Bridge. Pull over at the overlook and admire one of the world’s most iconic coasts.
Cottages Grocery Restaurant- Food Stop At The Big Sur
The majority of the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles remains untouched. In practice, this means that restaurants aren’t as easy to come by as you might expect, at least by American standards. The last time we drove down the Pacific Coast Highway in March 2022, we ended up stopping at Cottages Grocery Restaurant for lunch.
This cute eatery has an adorable local ambiance, as well as delicious food. It’s not a popular pick by any means. In fact, it’s a little hidden gem despite being situated right on the Pacific Coast Highway. Come by, you won’t regret it!
Piedras Blancas- Elephant Seal Vista Point
Elephant seals clearly living their best life on a sandy beach in California.
You may have spotted elephant seals already, either chilling at one of the piers in San Francisco or sunbathing somewhere along the Big Sur. However, the Vista Point at Piedras Blancas is easily the best and most accessible spot to observe these glorious creatures.
Admire these playful animals from a viewing platform just meters above the sandy beach. There’s a large complimentary car park directly by the platform.
San Simeon & Hearst Castle
Mike McBey
This next stop along the PCH is just a couple of minutes south of the Elephant Seal Vista Point.
You can turn left off the Pacific Coast Highway to reach Hearst Castle. This extravagant property was built back in the 20th century and can be explored on a guided tour.
Hearst Castle is expected to re-open in the first half of May 2022, following a closure caused by a storm that damaged the access road. We were there back in March when the castle was still closed. Nonetheless, it looks spectacular in pictures.
Cambria
Cambria is another cute coastal village that you’ll drive through during your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. This tiny town makes for a great spot to stop and stretch your legs for a while. Walk the pretty boardwalk, dine at one of the local restaurants, or simply take in the views at Moonstone Beach.
Morro Bay State Park
The State Park at Morro Bay is perhaps the best spot along the Pacific Coast Highway to look for local wildlife. If you’re lucky, you may find cute animals such as sea otters or colorful monarch butterflies. Hike down one of the park’s numerous trails and try your luck. Keep your eyes wide open!
Santa Barbara
Pixabay
This may be a bit of a controversial opinion. We found the stretch of Highway 1 from Morro Bay through to Santa Barbara to be the least exciting part of the journey. This could have been because the Pacific Coast Highway isn’t exactly on the coast between these two towns, or because we chose not to stop at one of the wineries near Los Olivos. Either way, this part of the PCH was a little underwhelming after the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Big Sur.
As you approach Santa Barbara, you’ll find yourself back on the Californian coast. There are a couple of overlooks and pretty beaches between Gaviota Beach and the town of Santa Barbara, take your pick.
Once you’re in Santa Barbara, consider popping by Stearns Wharf– a pier lined with restaurants, bars, and shops right by the heart of this coastal town. Afterward, you can stroll down the sandy East Beach and make your way over to the Santa Barbara Zoo.
Locals often hang out at Hendry’s Beach, also known as Arroyo Burro Beach. There, you’ll find anything from barbecues and picnic tables to restaurants and shops. Note that many people bring their dogs to enjoy the beach with them.
Malibu
Let’s get one thing straight- everyone has heard of Malibu. This is the place to be. Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway through Malibu is an absolute must. At the very least, you’ll get proper bragging rights for seeing this lavish town.
There are a couple of public beaches where anyone is free to sunbathe, go for a dip in the Pacific Ocean, or just hang out for an hour or two. The famous Billionaire’s Beach, also known as Carbon Beach, is off-limits unless you own one of the outrageously expensive beachfront properties there. The houses, both on the coast and further up in the hills, are a cool sight to see, too.
As you come towards the end of your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, consider stopping at Cafe Habana for dinner. This trendy eatery offers a variety of Cuban and Mexican dishes. Dining here won’t break the bank, at least in comparison with some of the other restaurants in Malibu.
Los Angeles
Your Pacific Coast Highway road trip has come to an end! The final stretch of the PCH from Malibu to Los Angeles can get quite busy, especially during peak hours, so plan your trip accordingly. You could always extend the road trip and drive along Highway 1 further south until you reach San Diego.
Once you’re in Los Angeles, however, don’t miss the famous Santa Monica Pier. Stroll down the lengthy pier, check out the iconic theme park, get a photo at the end of Historic Route 66, or dine at one of the restaurants. Be sure to walk all the way until the end of the pier for the best views of the coast, too.
You can then continue south for a few miles until you reach Venice. Here, be sure to check out the boardwalk at Venice Beach, people-watch at one of the cafes, or play basketball at one of the courts. Don’t miss the nearby Venice Canals, as they’ve been featured in countless movies and TV shows. Californication, to name one of many.
Bonus- Rent A Car To Drive The Pacific Coast Highway
Unsurprisingly, a private car is the absolute best way to make the most of a trip along the legendary PCH. Our partners offer one-way rentals from multiple locations in San Francisco and Los Angeles. In fact, we serve over 15 000 different locations worldwide.
Get your car from Rentalmoose. We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.
It’s no secret that not all automobiles are created equal. The same goes for electric cars and hybrids. These are the most expensive electric cars you can buy this year. Note that only cars that can be purchased for the 2022 model year have made this list.
Check out this blog post to learn about the most expensive EVs of all time.
Most Expensive Electric Cars On The Market In 2022
General Motors recently revived the legendary Hummer nameplate. The all-new GMC Hummer EV is nothing like its gas-guzzling predecessors, though. In fact, this latest GMC pickup truck features a fully electric drivetrain!
In its most powerful variant, dubbed the Edition 1, the Hummer EV is expected to make as much as 1000 horsepower from its tri-motor electric drivetrain. The price tag sits at a firm $100 000, making it one of the most expensive electric cars on the US market in 2022. The spirit of the original Hummer lives on when it comes to this electric beauty- both cars perform exceptionally well off-road.
Audi e-Tron S Sportback- $106 000
Audi Newsroom
Similar to the previously mentioned GMC Hummer EV, this upscale SUV features a fully electric drivetrain that’s made up of 3 separate motors. This allows for a total power output of a whopping 469 horsepower, along with a sprint to 60mph (97km/h) in only 4.3 seconds.
What’s more, the Audi e-Tron S Sportback can drive over 210 miles (335km) on a single charge. The car’s battery pack can reach 80% charge within just half an hour of charging, too.
All of these cool features do come at quite a high price tag. The most powerful variant of the Audi e-Tron S Sportback will set buyers back by over $100 000, prior to any tax reliefs and rebates. Buyers in Europe should prepare at least €80 000, though the pricing fluctuates depending on the country.
Tesla Model X Plaid- $128 000
Courtesy of Tesla, Inc.
Tesla is unarguably one of the key automakers that’s responsible electric cars going mainstream. These high-tech EVs are both popular and rather pricey, and the high-performance Model X Plaid is no different. Let’s not forget that the regular Model X is already far from affordable- this EV starts at nearly $110 000 before extra options.
Buyers who are in the market for a Tesla Model X Plaid, which is a souped-up variant of the regular Model X SUV, should prepare at least $128 000 to purchase one. In return, buyers can get their hands on a monstrous electric SUV that can accelerate to 150 miles per hour (240km/h) in just 10 seconds! Fast enough to justify such a high price tag, if you ask us.
Tesla Model S Plaid- $134 000
Courtesy of Tesla, Inc.
The Tesla Model S Plaid is essentially a high-performance EV offered alongside the base model. This sedan made headlines a while back, all thanks to its jaw-dropping performance. That’s because the 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid can reach 60 miles per hour in less than 2 seconds. A 400-mile range (650km) is worth mentioning, too.
Naturally, this kind of performance does come at a hefty price. Buyers in the market for a brand new Tesla Model S Plaid need to prepare around $135 000 before extra options. As a result, this automobile is one of the most expensive electric cars on the market in 2022, and the most expensive vehicle currently sold by Tesla.
Audi e-Tron RS GT- $142 000
Audi Newsroom
The e-Tron RS GT is currently the most expensive electric vehicle sold by German automaker Audi. The four-door sedan is renowned for its exceptional performance, distinctive styling, and a lavish interior. All of those features are combined with an eco-friendly electric drivetrain.
In its most powerful version, the Audi e-Tron RS GT peaks at a whopping 637 horsepower. As a result, the car can reach 60mph in just 3.1 seconds! What’s more, it only takes around 20 minutes to reach 80% charge at a public fast charger.
BMW iX M60- $146 000
BMW PressClub
Believe it or not, the Tesla Model X is not the most expensive electric SUV available on the market. In fact, that title goes to the recently-unveiled BMW iX M60. This is the most powerful variant of BMW’s flagship fully electric SUV, the iX.
Two electric motors deliver an astounding 619 horsepower to all four wheels, along with up 1100 Nm of torque available instantly, unlike cars with internal combustion engines. Buyers looking for the best-in-class performance should re-consider getting this SUV, as the iX M60 needs 3.8 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour. That’s a bit more than the Model X Plaid, which costs around $10 000 less.
According to the German automaker, this lavish electric land yacht combines thrilling performance with unbeatable luxury. You could think of it as a fully electric counterpart of the legendary S-Class.
The car’s dual-motor electric powerplant instantly delivers 649 horsepower to all four wheels, allowing the EQS 53 4Matic+ to reach 60 miles per hour in just 3.4 seconds when using Launch Control. As always, luxury comes at a price. The whopping $170 000 price tag makes the highest-trim EQS one of the most expensive electric cars on the market today.
Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo- $187 000
Porsche Newsroom
Let’s be honest, electric cars don’t really get much better than this. Who wouldn’t want a high-performance German sedan, complete with a powerful electric drivetrain and an upscale feel both inside and out?
Despite having the word Turbo in the nameplate, the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo does not actually have a supercharger. Instead, the vehicle is powered by a dual-motor electric drivetrain rated at up to 750 horsepower. As a result, this EV can shoot up to 60 miles per hour in just 2.7 seconds!
In addition to jaw-dropping performance, the Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo doubles as the most expensive electric car available on the market today. That’s right, you can’t get any new EV that’s pricier than this one.
BONUS- RENT AN ELECTRIC CAR!
Renting an electric car can be a great way to stay eco-friendly when traveling, or simply find out first-hand why so many drivers switch to EVs.
Rentalmoose offers both electric and hybrids across some of the 15 000+ locations worldwide. Simply tick the GoGreen filters to freely browse through EVs and hybrids.
EVs certainly don’t have to break the bank, and these vehicles prove it. Check out 10 of the cheapest electric cars from across the globe. Note that some of the models are only available in specific parts of the world. Buyers from the US, Europe, and Asia will all find at least one model that suits them, though.
We’ve only included cars with fully electric drivetrains on this list. If you’re wondering what the difference between an EV and a PHEV is, check out this article.
10 Cheapest Electric Cars To Buy In 2022
10. Opel Corsa-E- $33 100
Opel Stellantis
The Corsa has been a vital part of Opel’s lineup for years. In fact, the Vauxhall Corsa is the best-selling vehicle in the United Kingdom. If you ever rented an economy car in Europe, there is a great chance that you have gotten an Opel Corsa. Now, the German automaker has introduced a cleaner, fully electric version of this beloved vehicle.
The Opel Corsa-E is one of the cheapest electric cars available on the market today, similar to its gas-powered counterpart which is also very affordable. The single-charge range can be as high as 400 kilometers (250 miles)in optimal weather conditions, thanks to the car’s 45kWh battery pack.
Rentalmoose tip: Wondering how long it takes to charge a 45kWh battery pack like the one in the Opel Corsa-e? Check out this insightful guide.
9. JAC iEV7S- $33 200
Never heard of this electric car before? We don’t blame you. You may be surprised to hear that this EV is actually offered for sale in Europe- a first for the Chinese manufacturer. One thing is for sure- you are bound to stand out driving one of these around.
Not only is the JAC iEV7S one of the most unique picks on our list, but it is also one of the cheapest electric cars you can get your hands on. Pricing starts at roughly $33 000, or €30 000. In exchange, you receive a 116-horsepower EV with a claimed range of up to 300 kilometers on a single charge.
8. Chevrolet Bolt EV- $32 000
Chevrolet Pressroom
The Bolt EV is perhaps one of the most futuristic-looking electric cars on the market today. The fact that it doubles as one of the most affordable ones, at least in the US, makes it even more attractive for potential buyers. Those who have driven one praise the car’s agile handling and best-in-class range.
Its 200-horsepower electric drivetrain has a range of up to 260 miles (420km) on a single charge. Buyers in America can drive off the lot in a brand new Bolt EV starting at just $31 995. And that’s before applying any tax reliefs, which are offered at both state and federal levels. Bad news for EV buyers in Europe- this model is no longer offered here.
7. Mini Cooper SE- $30 800
BMW Press club
An electric Mini Cooper is an exceptional eco-friendly alternative to the iconic hatchback. It comes powered by a 32.6kWh battery pack, which generates 181 horsepower. As a result, the Mini Cooper SE can sprint to 100km/h (60mph) in only around 7 seconds.
The range of the Mini Cooper SE is quite similar to its competitors. Drivers can expect to go up to 275km (170 miles) on a single charge in optimal weather conditions when driving in the city, or around 180km (110 miles) in cold weather. Pricing starts at a little under $31 000 (€28 000) before extra options. Buyers in the US should prepare at least $30 750 to buy an electric Mini, excluding additional state and federal tax reliefs.
6. Volkswagen e-Up! -$29 800
Volkswagen Newsroom
Volkswagen’s E-Up! is one of the best EV deals under $30 000 (€27 000). Many owners praise the car’s practicality, small size, and surprisingly agile performance. The E-Up! is available throughout Europe, though it cannot be ordered in North America.
This small city car can drive over 300 kilometers on a single charge in optimal conditions, thanks to its 32kWh battery pack. As a result, the E-Up! is a solid pick for both the daily commute as well as longer trips. It can also accommodate up to four occupants, although the rear seats are a little cramped.
5. Nissan Leaf- $28 000 (Cheapest Electric Car In The US)
Nissan Newsroom
The new Leaf has quickly made headlines directly after its debut. This is because the electric Nissan Leaf is officially the cheapest new EV available on the US market. That’s right, car buyers in the US can drive off the lot in a brand new electric car for under $30 000. The base price sits at around $28 000, before any additional state and federal tax reliefs. In practice, this means that the price can go down even further depending on where the vehicle is purchased.
The new Nissan Leaf features a fully electric drivetrain powered by a 39kWh battery pack. This equates to a range of up to 355 kilometers (220 miles) in optimal conditions. That’s quite impressive given the car’s affordable price tag. Buyers in Europe should expect to pay a little more, between $33 000 to $36 500 (€30 000- €33 000) for the base model.
4. Fiat 500e- $26 100
Fiat Stellantis
Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want a fully electric version of the cute Fiat 500? Now is the perfect time to get behind the wheel of one, especially as it’s also one of the cheapest EVs on the market today. Its range is anywhere between 100 and 200 kilometers on a single charge, similar to most competitors.
The base 500e fitted with a small 24kWh battery pack starts at around $26 000 (€23 500). Buyers can also choose to upgrade to a larger 42kWh powertrain, starting at roughly $30 500 (€27 500).
3. Renault Twingo Electric- $25 000
Renault Media Website
An electric Twingo is another fun compact that doubles as one of the cheapest electric cars on the market today. Its small size makes it the perfect pick for commuting around the city, as opposed to cross-country road trips. Pricing starts at around $25 000 (€22 500) in France and fluctuates slightly throughout European markets. The model is not available in the US.
The range can vary anywhere from 100 to 200 kilometers on a single charge, depending on the weather conditions and the driving style. The 2022 Twingo comes powered by a 21.3kWh battery pack.
2. Smart EQ ForFour- $21 200
Courtesy of Smart
As the name suggests, the ForFour is a more spacious alternative to the similarly-priced Smart ForTwo. Smart’s electric four-seater gets up to 150km on a single charge. Though it may not be enough for a road trip, such a range is ideal for the daily commute within the city. Especially when making the most of top-up charging.
Sadly, the model is no longer sold in the United States. Back in 2019, a brand new ForTwo Electric Drive started at around $24 000 in the US. Buyers in Europe can currently pick a brand new one up for around $21 000, or €19 000.
1. Dacia Spring- $21 000 (Cheapest Electric Car In Europe)
Dacia Media Website
This is it- the cheapest new electric car money can buy. You can drive off the lot in a brand new Dacia Spring EV for as little as $21 000 (€19 000) depending on where you buy it. It’s no surprise that the Romanian automaker reached 40 000 orders within 8 months of launching this affordable model.
Dacia is a Romanian automaker that’s a part of the Renault Group. The Spring has a range of over 250km on a single charge, though it can fluctuate quite a bit based on the weather conditions. The Dacia Spring is not available in the United States.
Bonus- Rent An Electric Car!
Renting an electric car can be a great way to stay eco-friendly when traveling, or simply find out first-hand why so many drivers switch to EVs.
Rentalmoose offers both electric and hybrids across some of the 15 000+ locations worldwide. Simply tick the GoGreen filters to freely browse through EVs and hybrids.
Electric cars are well on their way to becoming the future of mobility. While many automakers attempt to lower the pricing of their models to make EVs more accessible, others focus on producing high-end cars offered at jaw-dropping price tags. Some are limited to just a few units worldwide, hence the most expensive electric car may not be what you expect!
Note that we have only added cars with fully electric drivetrains. PHEVs and other types of hybrids are not added to this list.
We’ve also broken down this blog post into the following sections, leading up to reveal the world’s most expensive electric car. Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section and find out how much each car costs.
Mercedes-Benz unveiled this fully electric variant of the SLS AMG supercar back in 2013. We can safely say that it was way ahead of its time. The SLS AMG Electric Drive came powered by a quad-motor powertrain, rated at 740 horsepower in total. As a result, this car can accelerate to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds!
The single-charge range of this electric supercar is 250 kilometers (160 miles) thanks to its 60kWh battery pack. That is more than double what most competitors offered at the time.
The German automaker built less than 100 units in total, valued at roughly half a million dollars (€450 000) each. This rare gem is worth even more money today.
Genovation GXE- $750 000
Courtesy of Genovation Cars
If you’re looking for ultimate performance, it doesn’t really get any better than this. The Genovation GXE is essentially a seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette transformed into a fully electric record-breaking supercar. The GXE also doubles as one of the most expensive electric cars of all time.
This 800-horsepower monster has gone down in history as the first electric car to surpass 200 miles per hour (320 km/h). In fact, its top speed is over 211mph (337km/h)!
The production of the GXE is strictly limited to just 75 units worldwide, each one worth over $750 000 (€680 000).
Rimac Automobili Concept One- $1 000 000+
Rimac Media Gallery
This Croatian automaker may have only been around for a little over a decade, but Rimac has quickly risen to fame. The Concept One was the brand’s first EV developed from the ground up. It’s extremely impressive, to say the least. Four electric motors power the Concept One. As a result, this electric supercar can reach 60 miles per hour in an astounding 2.8 seconds.
Only 8 examples were built, one of which was totaled by TV star Richard Hammond while filming an episode of the Grand Tour. That’s right, this show host is responsible for crashing what was probably the most expensive electric car at the time. Every one of the remaining 7 units is worth at least a million dollars (€910 000).
NIO EP9- $1 200 000
Courtesy of NIO
There’s a pretty good chance that anyone interested in high-performance cars has heard about this beauty. The Nio EP9 made headlines back in 2017, as this fully electric supercar broke the world record at the infamous Nurburgring racetrack in Germany. As a matter of fact, this car lapped the Nordschleife loop in a jaw-dropping 6 minutes and 45 seconds!
Each one of the car’s four motors makes a little over 335 horsepower, raising the total power output to nearly 1350 horses. The production run is limited to just 16 units worldwide. Oh, and this beauty isn’t even street legal. Owners can only drive their EP9s at the local race track.
Rimac Nevera- $2 500 000
Rimac Media Gallery
After releasing the previously mentioned Concept One, the journey of Croatian automaker Rimac was far from over. Back in 2021, Rimac unveiled the Nevera supercar- the fastest and most expensive electric car crafted by the company.
A 1914-horsepower quad-motor electric drivetrain powers the Nevera. The car entered production back in 2021, with a short production run limited to just 150 units worldwide. The price tag of the Nevera is equally astonishing as its performance- a brand new unit will cost roughly $2 500 000 (€2.27mln).
Lotus Evija- $2 600 000
Courtesy of Lotus Media Site
Lotus has always had a reputation for being one of the most innovative automakers in the world. After all, the brand arguably rose to fame after releasing the Elise. The Lotus Elise remains one of the best performance-oriented picks within its price range. The recently-unveiled Evija is in a whole different league, though.
At the time of its debut, the Evija was the world’s most powerful production car rated at 2000 horsepower. Its price tag is equally impressive. This electric supercar will set you back around $2.6 million (€2.37mln). The production run is limited to just 130 units in total, and all slots are reportedly sold out.
Pininfarina Battista Anniversario- $2 900 000
Courtesy of Pininfarina
Pininfarina is a legendary Italian coachbuilder and car design company. Designers from Pininfarina are responsible for designing some of the world’s most famous autos, including Ferraris, Alfa Romeos, or Lancias. Now, the company is making its very own electric supercar. It comes powered by a monstrous 1900 horsepower drivetrain. As a result, the Battista Anniversario is capable of a sprint to 100km/h in under 2 seconds.
Make no mistake, the regular Pininfarina Battista is already quite a special vehicle. Out of the 150 Battistas produced in total, only 5 will be made in the Anniversario trim level. Each one valued at $2 900 000 (€2.64mln).
Aspark Owl- $3 500 000
Aspark Press Material
Most of us wanted to own a spaceship back when we were kids, or at least a car that resembled one. Now, thanks to a small Japanese automaker, that dream is closer to reality than ever before.
The Aspark Owl is easily one of the craziest looking cars of all time. The exterior of was designed with peak performance and aerodynamics in mind, and it shows. The car’s drivetrain rated at over 1900 horses is worth mentioning, too. The Owl’s gigantic $3 500 000 (€3.2mln)price tag is easily its most impressive feature, though. This is the world’s most expensive electric car of all time, excluding crazy one-offs and concepts that were never available for buyers to begin with.
Aspark has reportedly already sold out all available slots. If you’re in the market for an Owl, you’ll have to wait for a couple of years. If a used one ever pops up on the market in the first place, that is.
Want to get behind the wheel of a hybrid, PHEV, or EV, but don’t know where to start? We’re here to help! Find out the difference between a hybrid vs electric cars, as well as PHEVs, and decide which one is best for you.
There are many reasons why you should start driving an EV, PHEV, or a regular hybrid. These vehicles are not only better for the environment, but can also quickly prove to be more fuel efficient and convenient. Not to mention their outstanding performance!
Let’s get back to basics, however, and distinguish the key differences between a PHEV, EV, and a hybrid.
We’ve broken this guide down into the following sections to make navigation easier. Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section.
Plug-in Hybrid, Hybrid, and Electric Cars- The Basics
Generally speaking, hybrids and electric cars can be broken down into three types: PHEV or plug-in hybrids, hybrids, and EVs or fully electric cars. The key difference between all three being the drivetrain itself.
Plug-in Hybrids or PHEVs
PHEVs, also known as plug-in hybrids, have gained lots of popularity in the last years. One could even argue that they provide the perfect balance between gas and electric drivetrains. A PHEV features a regular gas-powered motor combined with an electric battery pack. Most can be driven in electric mode, though the fully-electric range is typically under 100 kilometers (60 miles).
As the name suggests, you can plug an PHEV to charge it. The ability to charge at home is extremely convenient and cost-efficient, especially for short trips. Longer trips may require the use of the car’s gas powerplant.
Hybrids
The drivetrain that powers a hybrid is virtually the same as the one found in a PHEV. Hybrid cars rely on the car’s gas engine as well as an electric drivetrain. Regular hybrids, however, typically have an electric motor that’s much smaller than the ones found in plug-ins.
As a result, regular hybrids aren’t able to drive anywhere near as far using electricity. In fact, some hybrids cannot be driven in fully electric mode at all!
Another difference between regular hybrids and PHEVs is the charging. Ever wondered how a regular hybrid charges the electric powertrain, since it cannot be plugged into external charges? In reality, hybrids are charged through regenerative braking, as well as help from the internal combustion engine.
Electric Cars or EVs
Electric cars are powered purely by electricity. Unlike PHEVs and hybrids, EVs do not have an internal combustion engine at all.
One of the key perks of driving an electric car is the fact that you can charge it for free at home. Since an EV is only powered by its electric drivetrain, the batteries are larger than the ones found in PHEVs.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look into the key differences between these car types!
Impact On The Environment
Naturally, electric cars take the cake here. This is all because, unlike PHEVs and hybrids, electric cars do not have an internal combustion engine at all. As a result, they do not burn any fossil fuels. While both PHEVs and hybrids generate some pollution, the figures are a lot lower than regular gas-powered cars.
Let’s not forget that the transportation industry is the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the US (source). Swapping your gas-powered vehicle for an electric car can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint and positively impact the envrionment.
Did you know you can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint while traveling? Use the GoGreen filters when browsing rental cars at Rentalmoose. That way, you will be able to filter only EVs and plug-ins. In addition, we plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!
Cost Efficiency
Curious about hybrid vs electric cars when it comes to cost efficiency? It should come as no surprise that electric cars remain the most cost efficient to drive. After all, EV owners can charge their vehicles at home, or make the most of extensive charging networks worldwide. Many chargers are free to use, too.
Since plug-in hybrids can be charged at home just like EVs, they can be equally cost efficient. It all boils down to how much of the driving is done in the car’s fully electric mode. If the car remains in electric mode only, it can be just as inexpensive to drive as an EV. This is not possible with regular hybrids that require support from the gas motor at all times.
It’s also crucial to note that even if a plug-in hybrid is only driven in electric mode, it’s highly recommended to have some gas in the tank. Driving a PHEV with no fuel in the gas tank can cause irreversible damage to the vehicle!
Range
Automakers have continuously been increasing the range of their electric vehicles for the past years. This is a much needed step to convince more buyers to go either fully electric or switch to a hybrid or a PHEV.
According to a report by InsideEVs, the median electric car range has surpassed 250 miles (400km) in 2020. In comparison, that same figure was at under 100 miles (160km) just 5 years earlier. It can safely be assumed that this number will only continue going up in the next years.
If you’re planning to go on a long road trip, a plug-in hybrid may be the best pick. Strictly when it comes to range, that is. That brings us to the next point.
Charging Time
This is unarguably one of the most controversial points about driving EVs and plug-in hybrids. The truth is that, even with the introduction of fast superchargers, it still takes at least half an hour to charge an EV. That’s why plug-ins are simply the most convenient, at least in terms of the charging time. After all, you can simply fill up the gas tank and be on your way in just a few minutes.
The reality is that having to stop for at least half an hour for every few hours of driving isn’t too convenient. Especially considering that a gas-powered car can be filled up in just a couple minutes. Charging your electric car using a regular wall socket can take well over half a day.
Audi MediaCenter
For this very reason, most owners of EVs and plug-in hybrids prefer top-up charging. Instead of waiting for the battery to run out completely, EV owners prefer to tup the car up at work or overnight. The same way you’d charge your phone- most of us plug it in at night no matter if the battery is completely empty or not. That way, you can make sure that your vehicle is always charged when you need it.
Plug-in hybrids tend to have a much shorter range than EVs. A 2021 Audi Q5 plug-in, for example, has a range of just 20 miles in fully electric mode. While this can be enough for the daily commute, it won’t cut it for longer trips.
Charging time is not applicable at all when it comes to regular hybrids, however. As we already mentioned, they are charged through regenerative braking and/or the car’s gas engine. No external charging needed here!
Performance
You have probably heard that electric cars are famous for their physcis-defying acceleration. The Tesla Model S Plaid is powered by a monstrous electric drivetrain rated at over 1 000 horsepower. As a result, it can accelerate to 60 miles per hour (a little under 100km/h) in less than 2 seconds, making it the quickest EV as well as the quickest production car ever. That’s nearly a second quicker than a Lamborghini Huracan EVO, too.
The reason why modern electric cars are absurdly quick is actually quite simple. Electric powerplants are able to generate a lot of power virtually instantly. This means that the driver can access all the car’s power as soon as they put the pedal to the metal. In comparison, an internal combustion engine does require some time to reach peak power.
In terms of performance, it really is a no-brainer. Electric cars are the clear winner, followed by PHEVs and then hybrids.
Hybrid vs Electric Cars- Which One Is Best
It really depends. As you can see, there’s a variety of different factors that you need to consider before deciding whether to use an EV, PHEV, or hybrid. While a PHEV may be tempting for the daily commute, the 250mile+ median range of an EV can be the better pick for a long trip.
The choice between hybrid vs electric cars boils down to personal preference, as well as how much you value of the factors mentioned above.
Don’t forget to book your next EV/PHEV/Hybrid via Rentalmoose. Check out our platform to browse rental cars at over 15 000 locations worldwide. You can also tick the GoGreen checkbox to filter only electric and plug-in hybrids. Reduce your carbon footprint when traveling by car with Rentalmoose.
We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!
Different types of electric car charging points nad kW ratings may seem a little overwhelming at first. Naturally, you’ll want to know how long it takes to charge an electric car before hopping behind the wheel of one.
No matter whether you’ve never driven an electric car before, or simply wonder what the different ways of charging an electric car are, this quick guide is for you!
For maximum convenience, this blog post is broken down into 5 different sections. Click the links below to quickly jump between relevant parts of the article.
To be completely honest, it depends on a few different factors. Charging an electric car can take as little as 20 minutes, or as long as an entire day in worst cases. What causes these figures to be so far apart? Continue reading to find out.
What Affects The Charging Speed of An EV
The time it takes to charge an EV all boils down to just 5 different factors:
Battery Size- a larger battery pack will take more time to charge than a small one.
Charge Level- naturally, the less charge your battery has the longer it will take to fill up
Maximum Charging Speed Of The Car- some electric cars will charge faster than others. Most EVs are able to utilize rapid charging points, unlike plug-in hybrids. Make sure that the maximum speed of the charger is either equal or larger than the rate of the eletric car.
Maximum Charging Speed Of The Charger- this is just as important as the maximum charging speed of your EV. For example, a Tesla Model 3 can gain up to 330 miles (530km) of range in just 30 minutes of charging. However, that can only happen when the car is plugged into a 150kW rapid charger. A slower charger will restrict the maximum charging speed, even if the car itself is capable of charging at a faster rate.
Outside temperature- you probably noticed that your phone’s battery does not perform well in the cold. The same goes for electric cars and their batteries. The range of an EV will be reduced in cold weather, and the charging time may be extended too.
Can You Charge An Electric Car At Home?
Yes! One of the great things about driving an electric car is that you can charge it right at home. Virtually all EVs come with adapters that let owners charge them from regular outlets.
Note that using your regular power plug is the least efficient way to charge your electric car. An EV may gain just a couple of miles of range per every hour of charging this way. In practice, this means that fully recharging the battery pack may take over a day, depending on the battery capacity. Nonetheless, it’s still a great way of top up charging an EV. What does that mean exactly?
Top Up Charging Explained
As the name suggests, top up charging is all about topping up the battery whenever possible. It proved to be more convenient for owners of electric cars, as opposed to only charging the car after letting the battery run out.
For example, an EV owner will often charge their car at the garage overnight or at their workplace, regardless whether the battery is empty or not. Continuously topping up the battery, as opposed to only charging it after it runs out all the way, is top up charging. Slower charging points are ideal for this.
Different Types Of Electric Car Chargers
As we have already mentioned, there are a few different types of electric car charging points. We can sort them by their maximum charging speed. Let’s start with the slowest one, which is a regular power plug.
Charging At Home- Level 1 Charging (The Slowest Option)
Range- roughly 5 miles (8km) / hour
Charging at home using a conventional socket is great for top up charging, or whenever you want to gain a bit of range over the course of a few hours. Afterall, it’s quite convenient to increase the range of your electric car if it’s going to be parked in one spot either way. It is, however, the slowest way to increase the range of an EV.
If the battery on your EV is completely drained though, you may want to reconsider charging the car using a standard plug at home. It can take well over a day to fully recharge, especially if the battery has a high capacity.
Luckily, there is a way more efficient solution for charging your EV at home!
Charging At Home & Public Stations-Level 2 Charging
Range- up to 40 miles (65km) / hour
Charging at home using a dedicated wallbox is a lot more convenient than a regular plug. You can expect to gain up to 40 miles, or 65 kilometers, of range per hour. An EV left to charge overnight is guaranteed to be topped up in the morning.
Many public charging stations utilize this type of connection, rated at between 6 and 20 kW.
The only downside is that a wallbox has got to be professionally installed at your home. If you’re on the go in a rental electric car, you can always double-check whether the hotel you’re staying at offers a level 2 charging point.
Fun fact: Tesla offers one of the most efficient charge-at-home wallboxes on the market. A 22kW home charger that comes with the Model 3 is able to add as much as 40 miles (65km) of range per hour!
Rapid Charging- Level 3
Range- fully charged in around an hour
Level 3 charging points are as close as EVs can get to gas-powered cars in terms of the filling-up time. A drained electric car battery should take no longer than an hour to become fully recharged. Level 3 charging stations are rated at anywhere between 50kW and 350kW. Naturally, the latter will charge even quicker.
If you drive one of the latest Tesla cars, however, there is an alternative that’s even quicker.
Tesla Superchargers (Also Level 3)
Range- fully charged in 40 minutes
Tesla Superchargers are undoubtedly the quickest way to fill up an electric car so far. It takes just 40 minutes to go from a drained battery to a full one. Most Superchargers deployed today are rated at between 150kW and 350kW, though even more powerful ones are expected to roll out in the near future.
Can non-Tesla electric cars use Superchargers?
Yes! Tesla recently made Superchargers available to other makes and models. That’s right, the network of 30 000+ Superchargers worldwide can be accessed by EVs of all kinds, and not just Tesla products.
Check the official website for more details. All you need to do to access a Supercharger in a non-Tesla EV is download the Tesla app.
BONUS- Rent An Electric Car
Curious to see what it’s like to drive an electric car? Look no further!
Go to Rentalmoose and browse rental cars in over 15 000 locations worldwide. Select the GoGreen filters to see EVs and plug-in hybrids in your desired location.
We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.
Keeping up with all the different car types can be difficult at times. After all, rental companies offer roughly 20 different types of cars to choose from! Find out what to expect when booking an estate rental car, also known as a station wagon.
Click one of the links below to quickly jump between different sections of this blog post.
An estate car is essentially a sedan with an extended roof line and a hatchback trunk. Access to the rear space is possible through the rear doors, as opposed to the trunk lid. In addition, most station wagons feature rear seats that fold down. That way, you can decide whether you need more cargo space or room for additional passengers.
Believe it or not, it’s surprisingly easy to distinguish an estate car from other types of cars, all thanks to their unique design. An estate car features A, B, C and D pillars in its design.
Every single estate rental car will have the following:
space for four or five passengers
a spacious hatchback trunk
similar to a BMW 3 Series Touring
Estate Rental Cars-Sub Categories
Many rental companies break down their estate fleets further. Check out the following sub-categories of estate rental cars you can often come across.
Compact
As the name suggests, compact estate cars are slightly smaller in size. This can be a Toyota Auris STW, for example.
Full-Size
Full-size estate cars are going to be the biggest ones, providing more space for cargo and passengers. This can include cars such as the station wagon variant of an Audi A4.
Luxury
Luxury comes at a higher price, and luxury estate rental cars are no different. Expect to pay more for a station wagon Mercedes-Benz or an upscale Audi A6, as opposed to a more budget-friendly alternative.
Crossovers and MPVs
Some rental companies will also consider large crossover SUVs and MPVs in the estate category. If that’s the case, you can expect to receive a Toyota RAV4 or a Ford Galaxy.
Is An Estate Car The Same As A Station Wagon
Yes. An estate car is exactly the same as a station wagon. Most rental companies in the United States will refer to this type of vehicle as a (station) wagon. In the United Kingdom, they’re called a station wagon.
Examples Of Estate Cars
As mentioned above, estate cars can easily be identified by their unique body style. When booking an estate rental car, you can expect to pick up one of the following vehicles:
BMW 3 Series Touring
BMW 5 Series Touring
Volkswagen Passat Estate
Audi A6
Audi A4 Estate
Toyota RAV4
Skoda Octavia Estate
Ford Focus Estate
Citroen C4 Picasso
Toyota Auris STW
Seat Leon ST
Opel Insignia Touring
Kia Ceed Estate
Ford Galaxy
Volvo V70 EState
Vauxhall Zafira
When It’s Best To Book An Estate Car
A quick glance at one of these cars is enough to understand that they’re all about space. That’s why they’re ideal whenever you need to fit up to 5 occupants along with their luggage.
Travel comfortably with the entire family for hours on end in a luxury estate, or book a compact estate to take your friends around town.
You can also fold down the rear seats. Then, you’ll end up with a two-seater and plenty of cargo space. Perfect for transporting a large piece of furniture, for example.
Learn More About Your Rental Car Type
You may not be aware that you only book a vehicle type, and not a particular make and model. That’s why you’ll see the words “or similar” next to every vehicle offered by rental companies. What does that mean exactly?
As rental companies’ fleets are constantly changing, it’s difficult for suppliers to predict which exact vehicles will be available at each location.
That’s why rental companies use a four-character code- called ACRISS- to classify their entire fleets.
You can check out our guide to ACRISS codes to learn more about rental car types. That way, you’ll always be prepared beforehand.
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Cancun has become one of the hottest travel destinations within the last years. It’s the ideal spot for bachelors, party animals, as well as families with kids.
These are 14 of our favorite things to do in Cancun with kids. All of the activities listed above are kid-friendly and ideal for days of family fun!
Visiting Mayan Ruins should be on the itinerary of every traveler visiting Mexico, no matter how old they are. These ancient sites date back thousands of years and are a crucial part of the local culture.
There are two major Mayan archeological sites in Cancun: El Rey and El Meco. Both of them are worth visiting!
El Rey Ruins
While the sites in Tulum and Chichen-Itza are among the most famous in the entire country, the long drive may not be ideal for families with kids. Don’t worry, as the El Rey Mayan ruins are located within Cancun itself!
El Rey ruins are located within the southern part of the Hotel Zone, near the famous Playa Delfines. Admission costs just 50 pesos per person.
El Meco Ruins
El Meco Archeological site is just a few minutes out of Cancun. Like the El Rey Ruins, admission to El Meco costs just 50 pesos per person.
Note: El Meco Archeological Site is temporarily closed.
Beach Day At Playa Delfines
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Cancun’s busy Hotel Zone, Playa Delfines is the perfect place to go. This sandy beach is truly spectacular, and it lays just a few miles south of all the resorts. It’s much quieter and more laid-back as opposed to the beaches at the Hotel Zone itself.
This gorgeous public beach stretches for miles, making it the perfect spot to unwind for a few hours. Go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or sunbathe for hours on end. Oh, and the soft sand is ideal for building sandcastles, too!
Keep an eye on the horizon. If you’re lucky, you may just spot a dolphin or two.
Go On A Pirate Dinner Cruise
Did you know that your entire family can feel like pirates during a very special themed cruise? Captain Hook offers dinner cruises on an impressive pirate ship. Set sail right from the Hotel Zone, dine on a pirate ship, and enjoy the entertainment.
This unique experience is quite pricey, though. Expect to pay around $US100 per adult. Children tickets are available at discounted rates.
Pirate dinner cruises are available 7 days a week from different operators throughout Cancun.
Hang Out At A Theme Park- Ventura Park
Ventura Park is an adventure-packed theme park ideal for the entire family. From go-karts to waterslides and rollercoasters, this place really has it all.
You can make the most of the park’s waterslides, ziplines, or race go-karts right by the ocean. There’s an indoor state-of-the-art virtual reality arcade, too.
There are lots of attractions here, so it’s best to plan a trip to Ventura Park for the entire day. Tickets start at around US$30 and go up all the way to $70, depending on the attractions you pick.
Check Out The Interactive Aquarium
Not only is a visit to the Interactive Aquarium one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids, but it also doubles as one of the best indoor activities in town. As a result, it’s the perfect attraction to drop by on a rainy day!
The Interactive Aquarium Cancun is conveniently located within the La Isla Shopping Village, right in the middle of the Hotel Zone. Inside, you can admire exotic marine life and learn all about the fascinating underwater world.
The fact that the aquarium is super interactive makes it the perfect spot for families with kids.
Expect to spend at least half an hour to tour the Aquarium. Oh, be sure to drop by the gift shop afterward.
The Cancun Interactive Aquarium is open daily between 9AM and 8PM.
Cenotes are one of the most popular attractions among tourists who visit Mexico. A cenote is a natural sinkhole filled with water. They’re scattered all over the Yucatan Peninsula, and a couple breathtaking ones are within a short drive from Cancun.
Cenote Azul- The Best Cenote Near Cancun
This attraction is a little over an hour out of Cancun. However, it is most certainly well worth the drive!
Cenote Azul is perhaps the most impressive cenote in this part of the Yucatan Peninsula. Guests can swim in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of two different swimming areas. Thrill-seekers can plunge into the cenote from the cliff diving site, too.
Expect to pay roughly 120 pesos per person for admission.
Extra tip: Consider driving down to Tulum to explore even more spectacular cenotes! And don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Tulum while you’re there.
Hop On A Ferry To Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a real oasis located a quick 15-minute ferry ride away from Cancun itself. This island is home to some truly spectacular sandy beaches and trendy eateries waiting to be explored. There are a couple of spots ideal for snorkeling, too.
Once you’re on Isla Mujeres, you can rent a golf cart to thoroughly explore all of what the island has got to offer.
You can catch a ferry from the Puerto Juarez pier, located just outside of the heart of Cancun.
Ferries depart every 30 minutes between 5AM and 9PM.
Relax At Parque de Las Palapas
Parque de Las Palapas serves as the booming heart of local life here in Cancun. It’s the perfect spot to grasp some of the local life, as opposed to the tourist-oriented Hotel Zone.
Parque de Las Palapas is more than just your average downtown park, though. There’s plenty of stalls to try out local specialties and purchase hand-made products. You can play a game of soccer, or simply unwind and enjoy the sunset.
There’s always something to do at Parque de Las Palapas, especially on sunny weekend afternoons. You can enjoy live performances and really dive into the local life here. Be sure to drop by!
Day Trip To Xcaret
Xcaret is an adventure park located roughly halfway between Cancun and Tulum, near Playa del Carmen. The drive there will take around an hour each way. At first, you may think that this is yet another Adventure Park. This could not be further from the truth, though.
Unlike most amusement parks in this part of Mexico, Xcaret is an archeological park that celebrates Mexican and Mayan cultures. Guests can choose from tens of different activities, including swimming with dolphins and other marine life, go on a speedboat tour, snorkel, or encounter stingrays.
In the meantime, the adults can unwind at the spa, or go for a romantic wine pairing session at the local wine cellar. The activities are curated for guests of all ages!
Adventure-Packed Day at Selvatica
This is yet another great adventure park located near Cancun. Selvatica is famous for their thrilling Polaris ATV tours through the Mexican wilderness. That’s far from the only activity here, though.
A wide array of attractions make Selvatica Adventure Park one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids by a long shot. Visitors can zipline head-first through the jungle, for example. Believe it or not, it’s not quite as scary as it sounds!
Let’s not forget bungee jumping, ziplining into a cenote, and the famous off-roading tours either. You can check out all of the activities at Selvatica’s official website.
Note that children need to be at least 8 years old to participate in one of the tours at Selvatica. Families with younger kids may want to skip this spot.
Pricing starts at $US99 all the way to $199, depending on the tour you select.
Go On A Road Trip
Road trips are one of the best ways to bond as a family. In addition, a road trip around Mexico is the perfect way to see just how diverse this beautiful country is.
Check out our curated travel guide and plan your perfect road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula. Expect to see ancient Mayan ruins, impressive cliffs, and cute towns along the way.
We already wrote about Ventura Park, as we consider it to be one of the best spots to visit in Cancun with kids overall. Their high-tech virtual-reality arcade, however, is another great attraction in its own right.
This part of Ventura Park is fully enclosed, making it the perfect destination for a rainy day in Cancun.
Visit Museo Maya de Cancun
The Mayan Museum of Cancun is the go-to spot to find out more about the fascinating Mayan culture. Unlike the nearby Mayan ruins of El Rey and El Meco, this attraction is fully indoors. That’s why it’s best to save it for a rainy day.
Guests of all ages can discover Mayan culture within Museo Maya de Cancun. There are loads of precious artefacts displayed within the museum, which is already an architectural gem by itself.
Admission will set you back 80 pesos per person.
Shopping Spree At Plaza Las Americas
A shopping mall may not be your first pick when looking for things to do in Cancun. A day at Plaza Las Americas is, however, quite a solid way to spend a rainy day.
Aside from around 200 retail stores, Plaza Las Americas also boasts a food court and a large cinema. Catching a movie followed by a not-so-healthy lunch is indeed a great plan B for a rainy day, just in case.
Plaza Las Americas is open 7 days a week from 10AM to 10PM (8PM on Saturdays).
Bonus- Rent A Car in Cancun
Unsure whether to book your rental car in Mexico? Be sure to check out Rentalmoose. We’re a global car rental broker that serves over 15 000 locations worldwide.
We only offer rental cars from trusted and verified suppliers.
Driving in Mexico can seem a little overwhelming at first. Check out our comprehensive guide, ideal for those who are planning to drive in Mexico!
There is so much to see in Mexico. Wonderful attractions, such as ancient Mayan ruins, are scattered all over the country. If you’re planning to make the most of your trip, the best way is to travel within the country by car. That way, you can freely move between different cities and regions in Mexico.
A Comprehensive Tourist Guide To Driving In Mexico
Yes! International tourists are permitted to drive in Mexico. Naturally, you have to meet the local laws to be eligible to drive here. In practice, this means the following.
You need to have a valid driving license. You only need an International Driving Permit if your domestic license is not in English. If your license is only in Japanese, for example, you’ll need to obtain an IDP.
Can You Drive In Mexico With A US License
Yes! As mentioned above, you can drive in Mexico with a foreign driving license as long as it’s in English. If you own a US-issued driving license, you can freely use it when driving in Mexico.
Requirements To Rent A Car in Mexico
If you’re planning to travel between different cities in Mexico, it’s best to rent a car for your trip. You can use Rentalmoose to browse through rental cars across over 15 000 locations worldwide. We only offer cars from trusted & verified suppliers.
Rentalmoose insider tip: Renting a car in Mexico? Don’t forget about proper insurance! Your credit card insurance may not provide coverage in Mexico.
The minimum age to rent a car in Mexico is 21. Drivers between 21 and 25 years will likely be charged with a young driver fee. This daily fee will be added on top of your rental quote.
In addition, most rental companies will require the renter to have at least 2 years of driving experience. This is verified by the issue date on your license.
The vast majority of rental companies in Mexico will require a credit card issued under the renter’s name. Debit cards are often not accepted.
Is It Safe To Drive in Mexico
To be completely honest, that depends. Safety remains a concern for many international tourists visiting Mexico. Tourist areas such as Cancun are perfectly safe. The same goes for the vast majority of the country. Drug violence remains a serious problem in the country, and it’s best to stay up to date on local news.
There are some areas that are not recommended to visit, such as Toluca Highway. It’s often referred to by locals as the carretera de la muerte, which translates to the Highway of Death. The name is pretty self-explanatory. You may want to drop it from your itinerary.
That said, you should always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, just like any other country you travel to.
There is absolutely no need to freak out. You can find some helpful tips for driving in Mexico below.
Tips For Tourists Driving in Mexico
Check out the information below to prepare you to drive in Mexico for the first time.
Stay vigilant
Avoid driving at night
Take cuotas (toll roads)
Look out for topes
Stay Vigilant
Naturally, you always want to be vigilant and fully aware of your surroundings when traveling abroad. The same goes for driving in Mexico. There is absolutely no need to panic and freak out that something bad will happen.
Simply stay aware of what’s going on around you at all times. Just like you would anywhere else.
Avoid Driving At Night
A couple of decades ago, this piece of advice would refer to banditos- local gangsters who would rob drivers, especially in remote areas during the night. Over the last years, the number of banditos has dramatically decreased.
The main reason you should drive in Mexico during the day is actually the quality of roads. Major toll roads (we’ll get to those in a second) are well-paved. The same cannot be said about side roads, especially in remote parts of the country.
If you do happen to break down in the middle of nowhere, you may have to wait until daytime for assistance to arrive. That’s why it’s best to simply avoid driving at night altogether.
Take Cuotas, or Toll Roads
At first, you may think that this is related to banditos or drug-related violence, like the advice to drive during the day. However, it’s recommended to stick to cuotas, or toll roads, due to the quality of roads. Cuotas tend to be well-paved, unlike minor streets. The difference is even more apparent in poorer regions of Mexico.
Look Out For Topes
Topes are speed bumps. They can be found all over Mexico, especially on busy highways and in big cities. You may expect speed bumps to be painted in bright yellow to ensure they’re visible. That’s not exactly the case.
In reality, many topes remain completely unmarked. As a result, they’re very difficult to see. Some topes are built by locals, hence seeing them is even more challenging. If you hit one going too fast, you may require roadside assistance. Look out for topes!
Know The Traffic Laws When Driving in Mexico
This is an absolute no-brainer. Be familiar with the traffic laws in Mexico, both the official ones as well as the unwritten ones. Let’s go over both of them.
Mexico Official Traffic Laws
The legal driving age in Mexico is 18
Every occupant in a car needs to have seatbelts on
Drink-driving is a crime. The legal limit is 0.08%
Using a phone while driving is forbidden, unless with a hands-free kit
Left-hand highway exits- Highways in Mexico have areas where drivers can safely stop and make a u-turn past their desired exit
Call 911 in case of emergency
Call 074 for roadside assistance- Los Angeles Verdes (more on that below)
Speed Limits in Mexico
Urban Areas- 40km/h
Open Roads Outside Urban Areas- 80km/h
Highways- 100-110km/h
First and foremost, be familiar with the official laws as well as the speed limits.
Unwritten Traffic Rules in Mexico
An oncoming vehicle flashing their headlights at you is a warning to slow down. The first vehicle to flash their lights has the right of way. If someone is flashing their headlights, you are expected to yield
Left turn signals can mean one of three things- the car in front is turning left, letting you know that there is space to overtake, or taking the right-hand side exit to then make a left
It is common to drive on the shoulder to make more space for overtaking vehicles. Expect to see overtaking vehicles on your lane, and use the shoulder to accommodate them
As mentioned above, many speedbumps are hard to see. Drive cautiously
Los Angeles Verdes- Roadside Assistance in Mexico
Knowing this is crucial for any tourist driving in Mexico. Los Angeles Verdes, or the Green Angels, are a fleet of green-colored trucks that provide roadside assistance. The personnel speak both Spanish and English, and will be able to get you back on the road in no time.
You can reach Los Angeles Verdes at 074, a 24-hour toll-free number. It’s best to write this phone number down, just in case.
Note that Los Angeles Verdes only operate in the daytime and on major highways. This is yet another reason why you should avoid driving in Mexico at night and stick to toll roads.
Road Trip in Mexico- Travel Ideas
Mexico is full of fascinating places to visit, and going on a road trip is one of the best ways to see the country!
Road Trip Around The Yucatan Peninsula
This is by far our favorite road trip itinerary in all of Mexico. You set off in dreamy Cancun, and then drive south via Tulum and through to San Cristobal de las Casas. Then, you’ll make your way back to Cancun via the west coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
This is a truly unforgettable road trip. Expect lots of driving in Mexico, as there’s plenty to see!
Day Trips From Mexico City
The region around Mexico City is truly fascinating. You can rent a car from the capital and go on multiple day trips, or combine them all into one grand road trip. Check out our curated travel guide.
Tulum and its Surrounding Areas
If a road trip around the entire Yucatan Peninsula is too much driving, check out our favorite things to do in and around Tulum. There’s more to Tulum than fancy resorts, and you won’t want to miss out on any of that.
Cabo San Lucas and Baja California
Cabo is a fantastic destination in its own right. Check out our travel guide on the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. We’ve included a few small road trip ideas around Baja California, too!
Tulum is the ideal year-round destination for tourists from across the world. We’ve hand-picked 13 of our favorite attractions and wonderful things to do in Tulum.
Without further ado, here are our favorite attractions in and around Tulum!
Swim in A Cenote
You simply can’t skip this when in Tulum. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with water. They can be found all over the Riviera Maya. Swimming in a cenote is a bucket-list attraction for anyone visiting Mexico.
A cenote is either open, partially open, cave cenote, or underground. Be sure to visit at least one of each kind for the full experience.
Note that all guests are required to shower before entering a cenote. That’s the only way to assure that the water inside remains crystal-clear and free from pollution.
There are so many different cenotes to choose from. We have picked our three favorites that you may want to head to first.
Gran Cenote
Gran Cenote is easily one of the most popular ones in the entire country.
The water is as clear and turquoise as it gets. Going for a swim in this dreamy water, surrounded by the impressive caves, is truly unforgettable. Guests can even dive through the cave, if they dare.
It’s highly recommended to come here early in the morning to beat the crowds. Gran Cenote can get extremely crowded, especially during peak season.
Gran Cenote is 3 minutes away from Tulum.
Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Dos Ojos may just be the most spectacular one near Tulum. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that if you only have the time to visit one cenote- it should be Cenote Dos Ojos.
You may be surprised to hear that Cenote Dos Ojos is actually made up of two different cenotes. You can head through the main entrance and explore them both while swimming.
Cenote Dos Ojos is a short half-hour drive from downtown Tulum.
Cenote Car Wash
This cenotemay not seem as spectacular as the two above. However, it’s a great place to visit and experience just how different cenotes can be. Once you’re here, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled to the middle of the jungle.
The open cenote is surrounded by lush mangroves and colorful trees. You can spot plenty of fish, turtles, and even crocodiles!
Thrill-seekers can hop in the water from a wooden platform 5 meters above the surface. This cenote is not as popular as some of the other ones in the area, hence it’s also not as crowded.
Cenote Car Wash is a quick 10-minute drive from Tulum itself.
Try Out Watersports
Any adventure junkie is going to fall in love with Tulum. There are plenty of action-packed attractions to do here, including loads of watersports to try out.
“Tulum Is Better On The Water” according to this local kitesurf rental, and it’s pretty hard to disagree. Mexican Caribbean Kitesurf offers kitesurfing lessons for beginners, experts, and anyone in between.
You can also try out foil surfing, as well as traditional surfing. Kiteboards and stand-up paddleboards can be rented, too. Oh, and you can explore cenotes on a SUP tour. What more could you possibly ask for?
Unwind At A Lavish Beach Club
A day at a beach club isn’t exactly the cheapest thing to do in Tulum. In fact, some of the pricier beach clubs here will ask you to pay around $50 to enter. Luckily, the entrance fee can often be used as credit to spend on food and drinks inside.
Coco Tulum
Coco Tulum is the place to see and be seen at. It’s favored by wealthier tourists who aren’t repelled by the cost. The minimum spend is roughly $25.
Visit Coco Tulum after dusk falls to see the beach club transform into one of the best party spots in town. Order a cocktail, listen to electronic music, and dance till you drop.
Coco Tulum is located in the Hotel Zone, a 15-minute drive south from the heart of Tulum. A car park is available directly by the beach club.
Explore Mayan Ruins In Coba
Mayan ruins are arguably the most significant landmarks in Mexico. Getting a grasp of the ancient civilization is an absolute must, and there are plenty of spots to do it around Tulum. Coba Archeological Zone is one of them.
The lack of tourists is another great part of visiting Coba. Since they’re not as accessible as the ruins in Tulum or Chichen Itza, many travelers decide to skip them. That’s a huge mistake!
Visitors have the chance to climb the ancient pyramid in Coba. Once you’re at the top, you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. It’s like a real-life Indiana Jones movie.
The drive from Tulum will take you around 45 minutes one-way. Parking is available on site, expect to pay 50MXN ($2.5).
Dive Into The Tulum Nightlife
Tulum is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, so you definitely don’t want to miss out on it. The best part? You can party 7 days a week, as there’s always something going on!
There are plenty of spots where you can experience Tulum’s nightlife. You can head to Pueblo for a more affordable experience, as opposed to the pricy Hotel Zone. Either way, you’re bound to have fun.
Some of the must-try nightlife spots around Tulum include:
Batey Bar (Pueblo)
Xibalbar (Pueblo)
Kiki (Pueblo)
Pasito Tun Tun (Pueblo)
Gitano (Hotel Zone)
Casa Jaguar (Hotel Zone)
I Scream Bar (Hotel Zone)
Coco Tulum (Hotel Zone)
Many of the local beach clubs, such as the previously mentioned Coco Tulum, also host parties after dusk falls.
Check Out The Caves At Aktun-Chen Park
by Gary J Wood
Aktun-Chen Park is perhaps one of the most thrilling parks in this part of the country. It’s located just 20 minutes away from Tulum, making it the ideal spot to spend the afternoon.
The cave system has got to be the most impressive highlight of the Aktun-Chen Park. Guests can go for a dip in the underground cenote, explore the cave system on a guided tour, or go for an adventure-filled zipline ride above the wilderness.
Note that this is far from the cheapest thing to do in Tulum. In fact, you can expect to pay upwards of $100 to experience all the attractions in Aktun-Chen.
Drive north along the coast, you’ll reach Aktun-Chen 20 minutes after leaving Tulum.
Look For Jaguars At Punta Laguna Nature Reserve
Visiting this vibrant reserve is an absolute must for anyone who wants to experience Mexico’s exotic wilderness. Book a guided tour of Punta Laguna to learn all there is to know about the local flora and fauna.
The reserve is home to lots of fascinating animals. Bumping into spider and howler monkeys is nearly guaranteed. If you’re lucky, you might just spot a jaguar too. This isn’t a major tourist attraction in the region, or at least not yet. Crowds should not be an issue at Punta Laguna.
Adrenaline junkies will find themselves right at home in Punta Laguna. You can ride the zipline across the lake just like Indiana Jones, or hop in a kayak.
The drive up to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve will take you around an hour one-way.
Visit Tulum Archeological Site
The waterfront Tulum Archeological Site is perhaps the best-known attraction here. Don’t let the crowds discourage you from visiting this spot, as it’s absolutely mindblowing!
What makes Tulum Archeological Site stand out from any other Mayan site in the region is its gorgeous setting- right in front of the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
This Mayan city is made up of over 60 restored temples. The site sits atop a cliff right by the sea. It’s no wonder that this is the most-photographed spot in the region.
After exploring the Archeological Site, you can head down to the small sandy beach. There’s not too much space, so you may want to get here during off-peak hours.
Family Fun At Xel-Ha
If you’re a fan of waterparks, you surely need to drop by Xel-Ha.
Xel-Ha isn’t your average theme park, however. Instead, it’s a fun mix of waterpark attractions mixed with the natural wonderland. In fact, it’s often considered to be one of the most spectacular aquatic parks on the planet. It’s certainly worth visiting, at least for the scenery itself.
Guests can climb the 70-feet (30m) tall lighthouse to admire panoramic views of the area, and then hop on the waterslide to go back down. Xel-Ha Park is packed with fun activities, including ziplines, snorkeling, and natural caves waiting to be explored. Naturally, you’ll also find cenotes and wild jungle trails here.
The park is a 20-minute drive away from Tulum.
Day Trip to Chichen-Itza
This is it, the most famous Mayan pyramid in the country. Chichen-Itza is a bucket-list attraction for travelers across the globe. It may not be in Tulum, though it’s located just a 2-hour drive away. As a result, it makes for a perfect day trip from Tulum!
Tourists are able to climb some of the ancient towers throughout Mexico. However, this is not the case at Chichen-Itza. Climbing the tower is forbidden. You may only admire it from ground level.
As this is the most popular archeological site in Mexico, you can expect it to be rather crowded. Arrive early in the morning to beat at least some of the crowds.
The site is open 7 days a week between 8AM and 4PM. Admission costs around 400 pesos, or $20, per person.
The journey from Tulum to Chichen-Itza and back will take around 4 hours both ways.
Photograph Ven a La Luz At The Hotel Zone
You will probably recognize this unbelievable sculpture from social media. It’s one of the most Instagrammed spots in Tulum, and perhaps all of the Riviera Maya. The 10-meter tall structure has been drawing in crowds ever since its debut in 2018.
As of late 2021, the sculpture can be found at AHAU Tulum. A photo with the wooden art piece will set you back 60 pesos. Expect to wait in a queue, especially on weekends. The site is open between 9AM and 8PM.
AHAU Tulum is a waterfront hotel located within The Hotel Zone.
Swim At One Of The Best Beaches in Tulum
It is no secret that Tulum is home to some of the best beaches in the world. It’s one of the main reasons why so many tourists flock to this part of Mexico every year.
The gorgeous coastline stretches for miles, only bringing one question to mind- what beaches in Tulum are the absolute best?
These are our top picks in Tulum and the surrounding area:
Playa Ruinas
Playa Paraiso
Akumal Beach
Secret Beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere
With that said, you’re bound to have a good time at virtually any beach here. All of them are drop-dead gorgeous!
Playa Ruinas
This is the famous beach that sits right below the Tulum Archeological Site. It’s quite small and often packed with tourists. On the other hand, the scenery is unforgettable. It’s easy to see why so many tourists choose to come specifically to this sandy beach. Come early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Playa Ruinas is open 7 days a week from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Playa Paraiso
This one is an absolute must. Playa Paraiso, rightfully named Paradise Beach, lays just a few minutes south of the Tulum Archeological Site and stretches along the Hotel Zone.
Unlike Playa Ruinas, Playa Paraiso is quite wide and long, hence it can accommodate a lot more people. Hordes of tourists aren’t really an issue, perhaps only during the absolute peak tourist season.
This public beach can be accessed 24/7, free of charge. You can rent chairs, umbrellas and other equipment right on the beach itself.
Akumal Beach
Akumal Beach isn’t exactly in Tulum. In fact, it’s roughly halfway between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, so it’s definitely worth a stop on a drive from Tulum to Cancun.
Amenities and facilities are plentiful at Akumal Beach. You can unwind at one of the waterfront bars and restaurants, or rent a sunbed and sunbathe for hours on end. You can snorkel here, too. If you’re lucky, you may spot turtles and colorful fish.
Expect this beach to get quite crowded, especially on weekends.
The drive from Tulum to Akumal Beach will take you 30 minutes one-way.
Secret Beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere
The pristine sandy beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere is ideal for those looking for a more private experience. This secluded beach is in the heart of the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve. It does not have any facilities.
You’ll need to cycle or hike to reach the secret beach, it cannot be accessed by car. Just finding it is an adventure in itself! Once you’re here, you’ll be rewarded with a serene sandy beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll be the only one there.
Go On A Road Trip
Want to make the absolute most of your time in Mexico? Going on a road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula will allow you to see many different attractions in the region.
We’ve prepared a curated road trip guide around the Yucatan Peninsula. The trip begins in Cancun, then continues south all the way to San Cristobal de Las Casas, before looping back up to Cancun via the west coast.
A private car is unarguably the best way of getting around Tulum, especially if you plan to head out of town. Before renting a car in Tulum, be sure to read our guide on Car Rental Insurance in Mexico. It’s better to come prepared!
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