Snorkeling Around the 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 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 experience below the water's surface you might enjoy visiting 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 within southern the 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 site 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 to 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 check it out, this site is located in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Chankannab Adventure Park is a fifth location 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.

Some basic details about 53 of the best places where you can go snorkeling in this area are listed in the chart below.

Snorkeling Boat Trips

For some people, the most enjoyable snorkeling is experienced away from the shore.

If you'd like to go snorkeling during a boat trip, you might want to contact Cozumel Sailing. Cozumel Sailing features a variety of activities upon their vessel Tucan, a 35' Trimaran that can accommodate up to 28 people. Their dedicated crew is friendly and knowledgeable.

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 in San Pedro, in southern the Yucatan Peninsula.

A third good option is Fat Cat Sailboat. Fat Cat offers an array of snorkeling and beach tours on one of their sailboats or speedboats. Both can take you where you want to be, complete with an on the seas lunch and drinks.

Take a moment to read this table for information concerning boat operators that offer snorkeling.

Snorkeling Services

If you looking for someone offering snorkel rentals, excursions, or similar services, you should check out Portofino Snorkeling. On the Bacalar Chico snorkeling adventure, you can explore the northern region of Ambergris Caye and do a complete loop of the island; three special snorkel stops will be chosen especially for you. The Caye Caulker Day Sail explores a neighboring island, marine life and coral gardens. They are located in southern the Yucatan Peninsula.

Another company catering to snorkelers is Dressel Divers Puerto Aventuras. The Dressel Divers boats will take guests to the best snorkel sites in the area. With daily snorkeling trips, guests have plenty of opportunity to take a peak into the underwater world of the Caribbean.

A third place to consider 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 the Yucatan Peninsula.

Some key facts concerning 86 companies that provide snorkeling services can be seen in the following chart.

To learn more about snorkeling, including helpful suggestions and tips for beginners and "pros" read our extensive discussion of snorkeling in the Caribbean.

All along the Caribbean coast, the best thing about the 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.