{"id":10882,"date":"2019-07-02T03:33:45","date_gmt":"2019-07-02T07:33:45","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/?p=10882"},"modified":"2024-03-15T12:57:44","modified_gmt":"2024-03-15T16:57:44","slug":"best-snorkel-sites-around-playa-del-carmen","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/best-snorkel-sites-around-playa-del-carmen\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Best Snorkel Sites in and Around Playa del Carmen"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you\u2019re looking for vibrant coral reefs, extreme cave exploring, cool freshwater pools, gigantic sea turtles or sweet little schools of tropical fish, Playa del Carmen<\/a> has you covered.<\/p>\n

There’s a magical and colorful<\/strong> underwater world just waiting for you to strap on your snorkel gear and explore.<\/p>\n

With so many amazing snorkel tours<\/a>\u00a0to choose from, it can be hard to find the right one (or two) for you.<\/p>\n

Taking one of our Luxury catamaran tours<\/a>\u00a0guarantees you will see some of the best sites of this region.<\/p>\n

It’s possible to visit some snorkel sites on your own but to see where the real magic lies you need to set sail into the blue.<\/p>\n

Our guide to the 10\u00a0best snorkel sites<\/strong> in and around Playa del Carmen will give you a good idea of where to start.<\/p>\n

But if you’d like to talk to us today about booking the right snorkel tour for you and your group email us at customercare@playadelcarmen.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The 10 best snorkel sites in and around Playa include:<\/h4>\n
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  1. \n
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    1. \n
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        1. Akumal<\/a><\/li>\n
        2. Puerto Morelos<\/a><\/li>\n
        3. Puerto Aventuras<\/a><\/li>\n
        4. Jardin del Eden<\/a><\/li>\n
        5. Xpu Ha<\/a><\/li>\n
        6. Xel-Ha Park<\/a><\/li>\n
        7. Cozumel<\/a><\/li>\n
        8. Cenote Dos Ojos<\/a><\/li>\n
        9. Playacar Beach<\/a><\/li>\n
        10. Tulum<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Find out why below…<\/p>\n

          \n

          1. Akumal<\/h2>\n

          Situated only 25 minutes away from Playa del Carmen is a lovely little beach town, famous for its shelled residents.<\/p>\n

          Akumal!<\/p>\n

          Akumal<\/a> is definitely the place to visit if you want to experience swimming alongside gigantic green sea turtles<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

          The unique seagrass that grows under the waves in Akumal attracts these gentle giants all year round, but they aren’t the only impressive creatures to call this place home.<\/p>\n

          You can swim straight off the white sand beaches and you will be greeted by spotted eagle rays<\/a>, manta rays and even a few needle fish.<\/p>\n

          If you’re willing to venture a little further out<\/strong>, there is also a vast array of vibrant coral, giant sea fans and colorful anemones to be found in the crystal clear waters of Akumal.<\/p>\n

          \"Akumal<\/p>\n

          Don’t have equipment?<\/p>\n

          Akumal is also one of the most prepared snorkel sites when it comes to equipment.<\/p>\n

          You can rent everything<\/strong> from a mask and snorkel to a wet suit and fins, so there\u2019s no need to pack all that bulky snorkel gear and carry it around with you all day.<\/p>\n

          You can do this on your own because\u00a0there are plenty of guides<\/strong> and conservation specialists on hand to give guided tours of the area and to answer any questions you may have.<\/p>\n

          Don’t want to worry about credit cards, deposits, and transportation?<\/p>\n

          A guided tour allows you to simply enjoy the day without any stress.<\/p>\n

          Plus you can combine swimming with sea turtles in Akumal with another activity.<\/p>\n

          For a full guide to Akumal read our\u00a06 Things to Know Before Planning Your Trip<\/a>\u00a0blog here.<\/p>\n

          2. Puerto Morelos<\/h2>\n

          Puerto Morelos<\/a> is a sleepy little beach town situated just 15 minutes north of Playa del Carmen.<\/p>\n

          Although this is one of the most laid back places on the surface, under the waves, there\u2019s a bright and bustling world of life and color.<\/p>\n

          A few meters offshore is the famous Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest reef system in the world.<\/p>\n

          \"\"<\/p>\n

          Puerto Morelos is such a unique snorkel site, because here, the reef stretches closer to the shore than in any other area of the Riviera Maya.<\/p>\n

          It’s your underwater dream<\/strong> world full of barracudas, manta rays, seahorses, bright fire coral and even a lobster or two.<\/p>\n

          Since it was officially named a protected marine reserve in 1998<\/strong>, the locals in Puerto Morelos have set up special tour companies that will take you on a guided tour of the reef, whilst protecting its important residents.<\/p>\n

          Although you can see plenty of life straight off the beach, I suggest opting for one of these tours.<\/p>\n

          They will drop you right in the middle of all the vibrant coral action where you can truly enjoy all the magic of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.<\/p>\n

          Plus, a day trip to Puerto Morelos<\/a> is totally worth it!<\/p>\n

          Read our full guide to Cancun’s little-known neighbor here.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

          3. Puerto Aventuras<\/h2>\n

          If you turn on your heels and head south from Puerto Morelos, past Playa del Carmen, you will find the spectacularly stunning residential town of Puerto Aventuras.<\/p>\n

          Not only does this hidden gem have a picturesque marina, idyllic white-sand beaches<\/strong>, and dreamy turquoise waters, but it\u2019s also home to some fantastic marine life.<\/p>\n

          \"snorkeling<\/p>\n

          What\u00a0really sets this snorkel site apart<\/strong> from the rest, is that the government has built a collection of faux reefs for the local fish. These large rock formations attract countless numbers of bright tropical fish, crabs, interesting coral species\u00a0and even octopi.<\/p>\n

          Although this lovely little town doesn’t boast the same level of expertise and equipment rental the others do, the faux reef creates the perfect protected area for both first-time snorkelers and avid underwater adventurers alike.<\/p>\n

          Some of our most popular Riviera Maya snorkeling tours<\/strong> start in Puerto Aventuras:<\/p>\n

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          1. \u00a0Luxury Sail & Snorkel at 15% off<\/a><\/li>\n
          2. \u00a0Catamaya Catamaran tour at 10% off<\/a><\/li>\n
          3. \u00a0Private Yacht Charter<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
            See Discount<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

             <\/p>\n

            Feel free to call us, PlayaDelCarmen.com, for more details at 888-537-9797<\/a>.<\/p>\n

            4. Jardin del Eden<\/h2>\n

            If you\u2019re getting a little tired of these saltwater<\/strong> delights and want a change of scenery, then a visit to one of the magical fresh water<\/strong>\u00a0cenotes<\/a> around Playa del Carmen is a must.<\/p>\n

            The Riviera Maya is littered with cenotes (freshwater sinkholes) of all shapes and sizes, each suited to a wide range of divers and snorkelers.<\/p>\n

            However, one of our favorites happens to be only 10 minutes away<\/strong> from Playa del Carmen.<\/p>\n

            Jardin del Eden<\/a> is one of the larger cenotes in the area and is home to a whole host of unusual freshwater fish and plant life.<\/p>\n

            Damselfish, wrasses, mini catfish and brightly-colored tetras will happily join you as you explore the fascinating world below the cool water’s surface.<\/p>\n

            You will see some unbelievable rock formations, deep caves and even stalagmites while exploring this enchanted pool.<\/p>\n

            \"cenote<\/p>\n

            You may even be treated to a first class pedicure<\/strong> from the resident Garra rufa fish, the exact same species they use in those expensive spas.<\/p>\n

            There is always a fee to enter<\/strong> the cenote ($80-$100 Mexican Pesos), but this helps pay for the upkeep of the cenote, the on-site first aid and the use of the restrooms.<\/p>\n

            If you don’t have any of your own snorkel gear, then Jardin del Eden also has you covered.<\/p>\n

            You can rent masks, fins, life vests, snorkels and underwater rock shoes for a small fee.<\/p>\n

            \u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

            5. Xpu Ha<\/h2>\n

            I almost feel like whispering this one!<\/p>\n

            Because it is one of Mexico’s best kept secrets!<\/p>\n

            Xpu Ha village and its beach sit just 30 minutes away from Playa del Carmen.<\/p>\n

            Trust me, it stands out as one of the most beautiful places to soak up the sun.<\/p>\n

            And for some snorkeling.<\/p>\n

            \"xpu<\/p>\n

            You’ll find intriguing coral formations scattered around in patches, each separated by sandy patches.<\/p>\n

            Just be cautious around the shallow coral areas, especially since there’s “fire” coral present, known for its painful sting.<\/p>\n

            Additionally, Xpu Ha boasts fantastic beach clubs, quaint cenotes, and maintains a pristine, undeveloped charm.<\/p>\n

            It’s the perfect place to unwind, spending the day lounging and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.<\/p>\n

            6. Xel-Ha Park<\/h2>\n

            Get ready for endless snorkeling, thrilling adventures, delicious food, and so much more!<\/p>\n

            Xel-Ha natural water park is packed with excitement, featuring an iconic inlet teeming with diverse flora and fauna.<\/p>\n

            Dive into the sparkling cove for some epic snorkeling, take a dip in the river, explore enchanting cenotes, and uncover hidden bays.<\/p>\n

            \"snorkeling<\/p>\n

            And for an extra dose of excitement, don’t miss out on Power Xnorkeling – snorkeling with a powerful motorjet. It’s a thrill like no other!<\/p>\n

            You can see over 90 marine species including angelfish, pufferfish, rays, and protected queen conch.<\/p>\n

            The park tickets cost $142.99 for adults and $107.24 for kids.<\/p>\n

            But if you book with us, you get a 10% discount!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
            Get Discount<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

            \u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

            7. Cozumel<\/h2>\n

            No doubt, Cozumel<\/a> takes the crown as the top diving spot in the Riviera Maya.<\/p>\n

            But it’s not just for divers – it’s fantastic for snorkeling too!<\/p>\n

            The Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel (Cozumel Reefs National Park), established in 1996, has been a huge hit.<\/p>\n

            Covering a vast 12,000 hectares (29,600 acres) of reef along Cozumel’s southern coast, these underwater ecosystems are thriving and offer heaps of fun for snorkelers!<\/p>\n

            \"cozumel<\/p>\n

            The best time for Cozumel snorkeling is during the dry season, from November to April. This is when the visibility underwater is at its peak, and rainfall is minimal.<\/p>\n

            Plus if you book a private yacht for you and your peeps, you can snorkel with fish and turtles while the crew prepares your tasty ceviche and cheeseburgers!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
            Book Yacht<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

            \u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

            8. Cenote Dos Ojos<\/h2>\n

            Cenote Dos Ojos is a double treat with its 2 interconnected cenotes.<\/p>\n

            “Dos Ojos” translates to “two eyes” in Spanish, perfectly fitting for this duo.<\/p>\n

            One is called Bat Cave and the other\u2019s called Barbie Line, each with its own charm.<\/p>\n

            It’s no surprise that Dos Ojos ranks high on the list of must-visit places for divers and snorkelers.<\/p>\n

            Things you’ll see at the cenote include stalactites, stalagmites, schools of fish, cave formations, bats, and even cave shrimp.<\/p>\n

            \"dos<\/p>\n

            The entrance fee is 200 pesos, roughly $12 USD.<\/p>\n

            And if you need snorkeling gear, you can rent it for an extra 100 pesos.<\/p>\n

            \u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

            9. Playacar Beach<\/h2>\n

            Playacar<\/a> Beach, just a stone’s throw away from Playa del Carmen, is a gem for snorkeling enthusiasts.<\/p>\n

            Its calm waters and easily accessible underwater sights make it perfect for novice snorkelers.<\/p>\n

            \"playacar<\/p>\n

            You won’t find yourself paddling far before encountering a vibrant underwater world teeming with tropical fish, curious crabs, octopi, and the occasional Caribbean spiny lobster.<\/p>\n

            And who knows, you might even spot a stingray and capture the perfect selfie!<\/p>\n

            Word of caution – do not walk on the rocks, they are super sharp.
            \n            \u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

            10. Tulum<\/h2>\n

            Snorkeling in Tulum is simply amazing.<\/p>\n

            Head to the stunning cenotes like Gran Cenote, or beaches like Punta Allen or Playa Paraiso for crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing underwater scenes.<\/p>\n

            For something a bit off the beaten path, head to Casa Cenote.<\/p>\n

            This unique cenote opens up to the ocean, offering a mix of freshwater and saltwater creatures.<\/p>\n

            \"tulum<\/p>\n

            Tulum’s coast also boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, graceful rays, and even the occasional sea turtle cruising by.<\/p>\n

            So no matter where you choose to snorkel, you’re in for a treat!<\/p>\n

            Plus if you book a guided tour, you get both – tour of Tulum ruins + a snorkeling experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
            See Tour<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

             <\/p>\n

            Have you visited any of these amazing snorkel sites? Let us know which was your favorite in the comments below!<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

            Whether you\u2019re looking for vibrant coral reefs, extreme cave exploring, cool freshwater pools, gigantic sea turtles or sweet little schools of tropical fish, Playa del Carmen has you covered. There’s a magical and colorful underwater world just waiting for you […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":20875,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[144],"tags":[24,736,268,288,17,739,743,741,742,740,631,441,282,738,733,27,729,732,731,401,730,737,735],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10882"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10882"}],"version-history":[{"count":64,"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10882\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31218,"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10882\/revisions\/31218"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20875"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10882"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10882"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.playadelcarmen.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10882"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}