Snorkeling Around Yucatan Peninsula

The Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is a great destination for tourists interested in watersports.  Snorkeling is especially popular because it involves very little training and is a rewarding, and some would say magical, experience. 

Not every town in the Yucatan Peninsula is ideal for snorkeling, but no matter where you stay, you'll typically find that you are within easy reach of some of the most stunning snorkeling sites in the world.  Conditions are almost always ideal, with visibility typically being over 60 feet and the waters never lower than the mid-70s in degrees Fahrenheit, though waters in the low 80s are more common.  

The sites you may see vary from place to place.  Though common sites include sea turtles, barracudas, rays, and hundreds of varieties of rainbow colored fish, there are some places where you might see octopus, nurse sharks, and up in the Isla Mujeres and Holbox between the months of June and September you can even snorkel with whale sharks.

Some places like Akumal and Puerto Morelos are great for snorkeling right from the beach, while Cozumel, Playa Del Carmen, and Cancun are places where you'll want to book a tour that will take you to an offshore reef.  There are even unique snorkeling opportunities, like the cenotes around Tulum where you can snorkel in fresh water sink holes. 

Though every beach may not be the best for snorkeling, you always have the opportunity to give it a try, thanks to the fact that all property is controlled by the Mexican Federal Government and open to the public.  

Snorkeling Sites

If you're ready to see below the water's surface you might enjoy Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Part of the national park, this is a natural wonderland for snorkelers looking to explore an authentic underwater habitat. The cut is a channel that acts as a highway for fish swimming from one side of the reef to the other. This snorkeling site is located in southern Yucatan Peninsula.

Chinchorro Bank Biosphere Reserve is another place you might enjoy. One of the most pristine coral reefs in the world thanks to the limited access allowed to it by the government, this site features such unique sea life as black coral and conch. You'll also be able to spot rays, eels, sponges, and a great many tropical fish.

A third location to consider is Cristal Cenote. Clear waters surrounded by lush green scenery, this picturesque site is also fun for snorkeling thanks to tons of tiny fish that swarm about.

A fourth place where you can go snorkeling is Chunyaxche Lagoon. If you're looking for a different snorkeling experience, this is the site for you. Rather than coral, it is mangroves you're peeking through in order to glimpse sightings of the fish that live here. If you want to experience it for yourself, you'll find this site located in Yucatan Peninsula.

Chankannab Adventure Park is a fifth site to consider. An underwater statue called Chaak Mool rests at this snorkeling site, adding to the appeal already set forth by the diversity of sea life. Sightings might include sea fans lobster, sergeant majors, and octopus, though there is no coral.

Glance through the following table for a listing of 53 of the best places to enjoy snorkeling in this area.

Snorkeling Boat Trips

For some people, the best snorkeling is accessed away from the shore.

If you're ready to snorkel during a boat trip, you can check with Cozumel Sailing. Cozumel Sailing offers deep sea fishing excursions, private charters, Tucan sailing adventures, and sunset sails. Some of the activities included on these trips include snorkeling, snorkel gear, complimentary lunch, an open bar, and occasional Spinnaker rides if the weather permits.

Another option to consider is Blue Tang Tours. For those embarking on a sailing tour aboard the Sirena Azul, you are in for a treat. The 40' "Blue Mermaid" is a beautifully built boat that can accommodate up to 20 guests comfortably. They're located within San Pedro, in southern Yucatan Peninsula.

A third good option is Yucatan F1. For a full day of fun, let Yucatan F1 do all the work as they take you on a sail up the coast at high speeds and for low prices.

Some key facts concerning boat trip providers that provide snorkeling are provided here:

Snorkeling Services

If you looking for a place offering snorkel rentals, excursions, or similar services, you should check out Portofino Snorkeling. Located at {% link_to 50020 %}, Prortofino snorkeling is in amazing location because of the cllear, warm waters of the Caribbean. They are found within southern Yucatan Peninsula.

A second company catering to snorkelers is Dressel Divers Puerto Aventuras. The daily snorkeling trips from Puerto Aventuras venture to INAH Natural Reserve reef. There is an extensive coral population at this reef, including sponges and fan and brain corals. In addition to the corals, there are colorful fish like the parrot fish, angel fish, butterfly fish, Barracuda, yellow tail and grouper that populate this reef.

A third option is Reef Adventures. Explore the Great Barrier Reef in all of its glory. This operator offers daily trips to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Tres Cocos, Shark Ray Alley, and Mexico Rocks as well, so no matter what type of snorkeling you want to do, they can help you make it happen. They're located in San Pedro, in the southern part of Yucatan Peninsula.

Take some time to look through this table to read more with regard to 88 firms that provide snorkeling related services.

To learn more concerning snorkeling, including tips and suggestions for beginners and "pros" check out this comprehensive Caribbean snorkeling article.

All along the Caribbean coast, the best thing about the Yucatan Peninsula is the variety.  Whether you prefer to take a boat out to an offshore reef, jump in and snorkel from your favorite beach, or head to the interior to explore a cenote, the snorkeling in this region of Mexico is like no where else.