Whether you’re 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 to strap on your snorkel gear and explore.
With so many amazing snorkel tours to choose from, it can be hard to find the right one (or two) for you.
Taking one of our Luxury catamaran tours guarantees you will see some of the best sites of this region.
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.
Our guide to the 10 best snorkel sites in and around Playa del Carmen will give you a good idea of where to start.
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.
The 10 best snorkel sites in and around Playa include:
Find out why below…
1. Akumal
Situated only 25 minutes away from Playa del Carmen is a lovely little beach town, famous for its shelled residents.
Akumal!
Akumal is definitely the place to visit if you want to experience swimming alongside gigantic green sea turtles.
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.
You can swim straight off the white sand beaches and you will be greeted by spotted eagle rays, manta rays and even a few needle fish.
If you’re willing to venture a little further out, 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.
Don’t have equipment?
Akumal is also one of the most prepared snorkel sites when it comes to equipment.
You can rent everything from a mask and snorkel to a wet suit and fins, so there’s no need to pack all that bulky snorkel gear and carry it around with you all day.
You can do this on your own because there are plenty of guides and conservation specialists on hand to give guided tours of the area and to answer any questions you may have.
Don’t want to worry about credit cards, deposits, and transportation?
A guided tour allows you to simply enjoy the day without any stress.
Plus you can combine swimming with sea turtles in Akumal with another activity.
For a full guide to Akumal read our 6 Things to Know Before Planning Your Trip blog here.
2. Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is a sleepy little beach town situated just 15 minutes north of Playa del Carmen.
Although this is one of the most laid back places on the surface, under the waves, there’s a bright and bustling world of life and color.
A few meters offshore is the famous Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest reef system in the world.
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.
It’s your underwater dream world full of barracudas, manta rays, seahorses, bright fire coral and even a lobster or two.
Since it was officially named a protected marine reserve in 1998, 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.
Although you can see plenty of life straight off the beach, I suggest opting for one of these tours.
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.
Plus, a day trip to Puerto Morelos is totally worth it!
Read our full guide to Cancun’s little-known neighbor here.
3. Puerto Aventuras
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.
Not only does this hidden gem have a picturesque marina, idyllic white-sand beaches, and dreamy turquoise waters, but it’s also home to some fantastic marine life.
What really sets this snorkel site apart 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 and even octopi.
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.
Some of our most popular Riviera Maya snorkeling tours start in Puerto Aventuras:
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Feel free to call us, PlayaDelCarmen.com, for more details at 888-537-9797.
4. Jardin del Eden
If you’re getting a little tired of these saltwater delights and want a change of scenery, then a visit to one of the magical fresh water cenotes around Playa del Carmen is a must.
The Riviera Maya is littered with cenotes (freshwater sinkholes) of all shapes and sizes, each suited to a wide range of divers and snorkelers.
However, one of our favorites happens to be only 10 minutes away from Playa del Carmen.
Jardin del Eden is one of the larger cenotes in the area and is home to a whole host of unusual freshwater fish and plant life.
Damselfish, wrasses, mini catfish and brightly-colored tetras will happily join you as you explore the fascinating world below the cool water’s surface.
You will see some unbelievable rock formations, deep caves and even stalagmites while exploring this enchanted pool.
You may even be treated to a first class pedicure from the resident Garra rufa fish, the exact same species they use in those expensive spas.
There is always a fee to enter 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.
If you don’t have any of your own snorkel gear, then Jardin del Eden also has you covered.
You can rent masks, fins, life vests, snorkels and underwater rock shoes for a small fee.
5. Xpu Ha
I almost feel like whispering this one!
Because it is one of Mexico’s best kept secrets!
Xpu Ha village and its beach sit just 30 minutes away from Playa del Carmen.
Trust me, it stands out as one of the most beautiful places to soak up the sun.
And for some snorkeling.
You’ll find intriguing coral formations scattered around in patches, each separated by sandy patches.
Just be cautious around the shallow coral areas, especially since there’s “fire” coral present, known for its painful sting.
Additionally, Xpu Ha boasts fantastic beach clubs, quaint cenotes, and maintains a pristine, undeveloped charm.
It’s the perfect place to unwind, spending the day lounging and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
6. Xel-Ha Park
Get ready for endless snorkeling, thrilling adventures, delicious food, and so much more!
Xel-Ha natural water park is packed with excitement, featuring an iconic inlet teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
Dive into the sparkling cove for some epic snorkeling, take a dip in the river, explore enchanting cenotes, and uncover hidden bays.
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!
You can see over 90 marine species including angelfish, pufferfish, rays, and protected queen conch.
The park tickets cost $142.99 for adults and $107.24 for kids.
But if you book with us, you get a 10% discount!
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7. Cozumel
No doubt, Cozumel takes the crown as the top diving spot in the Riviera Maya.
But it’s not just for divers – it’s fantastic for snorkeling too!
The Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel (Cozumel Reefs National Park), established in 1996, has been a huge hit.
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!
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.
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!
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8. Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Dos Ojos is a double treat with its 2 interconnected cenotes.
“Dos Ojos” translates to “two eyes” in Spanish, perfectly fitting for this duo.
One is called Bat Cave and the other’s called Barbie Line, each with its own charm.
It’s no surprise that Dos Ojos ranks high on the list of must-visit places for divers and snorkelers.
Things you’ll see at the cenote include stalactites, stalagmites, schools of fish, cave formations, bats, and even cave shrimp.
The entrance fee is 200 pesos, roughly $12 USD.
And if you need snorkeling gear, you can rent it for an extra 100 pesos.
9. Playacar Beach
Playacar Beach, just a stone’s throw away from Playa del Carmen, is a gem for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Its calm waters and easily accessible underwater sights make it perfect for novice snorkelers.
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.
And who knows, you might even spot a stingray and capture the perfect selfie!
Word of caution – do not walk on the rocks, they are super sharp.
10. Tulum
Snorkeling in Tulum is simply amazing.
Head to the stunning cenotes like Gran Cenote, or beaches like Punta Allen or Playa Paraiso for crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing underwater scenes.
For something a bit off the beaten path, head to Casa Cenote.
This unique cenote opens up to the ocean, offering a mix of freshwater and saltwater creatures.
Tulum’s coast also boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, graceful rays, and even the occasional sea turtle cruising by.
So no matter where you choose to snorkel, you’re in for a treat!
Plus if you book a guided tour, you get both – tour of Tulum ruins + a snorkeling experience.
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Have you visited any of these amazing snorkel sites? Let us know which was your favorite in the comments below!
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