Snorkeling in the Yucatan

Good snorkeling may be found all along Cozumel's east coast beaches. The reefs off the beaches at both the Scuba Club Galapago Resort and Playa San Francisco have some nice stands of elkhorn and brain coral with a constant show of juvenile tropicals and invertebrates.

Chancanab Lagoon - Cozumel (see pictures below)
Chancanab Lagoon, south of the cruise ship pier at Laguna Beach, is protected from wind and waves. Ideal for snorkeling, depths range from very shallow to about 30 ft. Schools of grunts, angel fish, damsel fish, trumpet fish, turtles, and snapper dart between the clumps of coral. Seafans and soft corals adorn the reef.  Visibility runs about 75 ft, sometimes better. Snorkeling gear may be rented from shops on the beach. Changing rooms, freshwater showers and lockers are available. Small admission fee. A botanical garden and restaurant are on the premises.  More Info on the beaches and snorkeling in Cozumel.

Isla Mujeres (A small island off the coast of Cancun)
A pretty snorkeling-depth reef aprons the south end of neighboring Isla Mujeres. Enter from the shore at Playa Garrafon, four miles from town. This spot El Garrafon('the carafe') is one of the most populated (by fish and swimmers) in the Caribbean. Just wade out from the beach with some cracker crumbs and you'll immediately be surrounded by crowds of friendly fish. Ideal for first-time snorkelers. The beach has a dive shop, showers, refreshment stands & shops.

Akumal
Akumal is a excellent destination for those interested in enjoying the Mexican Caribbean. Akumal is located near the Mayan ruins of Tulum, Xel-ha, Xcaret, Chichen-Itza and Coba. Great snorkeling can be found all up and down the Akumal shoreline.  There is a crescent shaped beach called Half Moon Bay that is perfect for basking the sun. Akumal Bay is where sea turtles come to lay their eggs in the summer months...the bay also offers excellent snorkeling along coral reefs in the crystal clear Caribbean waters.  Biking is the prefered form of transportation and car rentals are available.

Chankanaab National Park / Lagoon
(click on the images)