Cancun is a Mexican city which is famous for being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico.
Apart from the beautiful beaches, resorts, hotels and nightclubs, Cancun is particularly famous for its amazing snorkeling destinations.
The crystal clear waters, mild currents, diverse marine life and impressive coral reefs make it ideal for snorkeling.
You can either go snorkeling offshore or join a Cancun snorkeling tour where you will be taken to the reefs.
Given below are some of the best places to go snorkeling in Cancun.
1. Cozumel Island
Cozumel is one of the most famous and biggest islands in the Mexican Caribbean.
It is popularly known as diver’s paradise because of its ideal diving conditions, transparent waters and abundant variety of underwater wildlife.
Cozumel Island has numerous snorkeling sites which are located along the west coast of the island.
Some of the popular ones are Chankanaab Park and Playa Corona.
The reef located in the front of the Chankanaab National Park is great for people who are new to snorkeling because of its mild currents and shallow depths.
If you are planning on going snorkeling in Cozumel, Cancun Snorkeling provides you the best snorkeling package which covers everything you need for an amazing trip.
This includes transportation, snorkeling gear, food, drinks, a unique beach club experience and much more.
2. Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy is a small island which is located just a few miles off the coast of Cancun.
It is a natural protected area and no more than 200 visitors are allowed per day. So if you want to get away from huge crowds and explore a tranquil island which is filled with different species of birds and animals, this is the spot for you.
You first take a short boat ride to the Ixlache Reef and enjoy an open breakfast on the way. All the snorkeling gear will be provided so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own.
You can then go on an amazing snorkeling experience where you will get to see a variety of creatures like queen conchs and sea turtles.
3. The Cancun Underwater Museum : MUSA
If you are planning to travel to Cancun, The Cancun Underwater Museum is one place you don’t want to miss.
As the name implies, you get to explore an actual museum which is located under the water. There are more than 500 sculptures which are made of coral friendly materials.
Although there isn’t much sea life, you might come across a few colourful fishes and sea turtles.
4. Punta Nizuc
Punta Nizuc is located at the southern tip of the Cancun Hotel Zone and is famous for its beautiful coral reef. This is where you will find the Nizuchotel Cancun.
You will also get to experience diverse sea life including creatures like stingrays, sea turtles, starfish and lobsters.
There are also many beautiful sculptures, some of the famous ones being ‘The Gardener of Hope’, ‘Inertia’ and ‘The Listener’.
5. Akumal
Akumal is a coastal resort which is about an hour south of Cancun.
It is a popular snorkeling destination famous for its endangered green sea turtles.
The Akumal Bay is a small bay which is protected by a reef. Since it is a public bay, there is no charge to swim or snorkel.
6. Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is a fishing village located 22 miles south of Cancun.
The Puerto Morelos Reef is the second largest reef system and stretches across the coast of Mexico.
There are about 2 different reef sites where you can go snorkeling. You will get to see exotic fishes of every colour and size including vibrant corals and underwater organisms like sea turtles, sting rays and barracuda.
7. Tulum
Tulum is located roughly 80 miles south of Cancun.
There are many reputed snorkeling spots in Tulum, one of the popular ones being the Cave Cenote.
You will definitely enjoy snorkeling in the crystal clear Caribbean sea water in the company of sea turtles.
8. Xel-Ha
Xel-Ha is a theme and natural water park and also one of the best locations in Cancun for snorkeling.
You will get to observe more than 80 marine species like snapper, parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish and pufferfish.
Apart from snorkeling, you can also take part in activities like zip-lining and exploring jungle trails.
Conclusion
If you are a fan of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the snorkeling spots in Cancun won’t fail to meet your expectations. There are also places where you can go snorkeling for free, so money won’t be a problem.
