12 Things to KNOW Before Going Snorkeling in Cozumel, Mexico

Just a short hop on the ferry from Playa del Carmen, the island of Cozumel is often overlooked in favor of its famous neighbor, which I think is such a shame! Being Mexico’s largest inhabited island, Cozumel offers some of the best beaches in the Yucatán, with the reefs here being absolutely packed with marine life. It’s a scuba diver and snorkeler’s paradise!

Of course, there are tons of incredible things to do in Cozumel, from going on a private island tour to exploring its Mayan history, but no trip here would be complete without snorkeling at least once. You might just fall in love with it like we did and go on a snorkel spree – we wouldn’t blame you!

The best part about snorkeling is that it’s super easy to pick up, no matter your age or how fit you are, and it’s great to do as part of a group or even solo.

Having just been snorkeling in Playa del Carmen, we knew we couldn’t miss out on giving it a go in Cozumel too. So without further ado, let’s take a look at everything you need to know to have an epic time snorkeling here!

1. About snorkeling in Cozumel

Have you ever had that moment on vacation when you suddenly realize just where you are? For me, it was swimming alongside two turtles while snorkeling off the southern coast of Cozumel!

With over 300 days of beautiful sunshine each year, Cozumel is pretty famous in the international scuba diving scene. I mean, who can blame them, with visibility sitting comfortably between 80 and 115 feet (24 and 35 meters)? And if the scuba divers have a place they love, chances are it’ll be pretty popular with snorkelers too. Turns out that theory holds true here!

The Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel, or Cozumel Reefs National Park in English, has been a massive success since it was established in 1996, covering a whopping 12,000 hectares (29,600 acres) of reef off the southern coast of Cozumel. Now over a quarter-century later, these reefs are flourishing and are tons of fun to explore whether you’re scuba diving or snorkeling!

I love that the Mexican authorities genuinely care for their reefs and want to protect them from overfishing and overtourism. Don’t forget to check out these handy rules when visiting the reefs, as following these helps to keep the reefs thriving as they are!

2. Why we love snorkeling in Cozumel

After having been snorkeling in Cancun and Playa del Carmen, I must admit that the bar was set pretty high when it came to premier snorkeling spots. So I was pretty pleasantly surprised after visiting a few spots around the island and finding myself falling in love with snorkeling all over again.

The snorkeling here has a totally different vibe – while it’s still a definitely popular spot for tourists, it felt a lot more laid back to me. I guess that’s island life for you!

Another big point is that although you are technically on an island, you’re really just a 45-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen. You can easily make a day trip to visit some other popular spots along the Riviera Maya like Tulum, Akumal Beach, Cancun, you name it!

So even if you’re staying in Cozumel, don’t feel like you have to just stick to the island, although it can be suuuper tempting with all these fun spots to visit and snorkel spots to explore. That said, there are plenty of amazing snorkel spots here on the island, but more on that later!

3. When is the best time to go snorkeling in Cozumel?

The best time to go snorkeling in Cozumel is during the dry season, between November and April. This is because visibility underwater is highest at this time of year and there’s little to no rain. After all, the main draw for snorkeling here is the reefs, so the sea and weather conditions are important factors to look out for!

That said, the dry season is also the most popular season for tourists, and while Cozumel doesn’t see tourism levels quite as high as Cancun and Playa del Carmen, over 1.8 million people still visit Cozumel’s marine park every year! So if you’re looking to visit when it’s quieter (and when accommodation prices are lower), then the wet season can also be a good option.

Lasting from May to October, the wet season does bring with it a higher chance of rain, so there is a risk of having more disruptions due to bad weather. However, I’ve found from experience that it tends to be more likely to rain in the afternoon, so if you opt for a morning tour you’d likely have a better chance of enjoying some quality snorkel time!

The wet season is also the perfect time to see the gorgeous and gentle whale sharks, who make their annual migration to the coast of the Yucatán to feast on the abundant plankton. We saw whale sharks in Playa del Carmen and it was so incredible! Snorkeling alongside them feels so surreal, these gentle giants can grow up to a whopping 20 meters (65 feet).

This full-day whale shark watching experience departs from Cozumel (you really want a full day for the best chance to see them), and includes a relaxing trip to Isla Mujeres as well as lunch! The friendly guides do such a good job of telling you everything there is to know about these wonderful animals, plus transport is included, which is a huge bonus.

4. What can you see when snorkeling in Cozumel?

The waters surrounding Cozumel are teeming with life, from the colorful parrotfish that like to eat the algae off the corals to angelfish, rays, barracuda, and more! And then we have the gorgeous sea turtles, with green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and leatherback turtles all calling the area home.

The reefs themselves are such a joy to explore, with many being relatively shallow and easy to see even from the surface. Last time we were here, we also saw some reef sharks! But these are actually far more curious than they are harmful.

Once you’ve explored the reefs, I also highly recommend checking out some local cenotes, which can be found both on the island and throughout the Riviera Maya (some of the best cenotes are in Tulum!). Cenotes are basically natural sinkholes, with many being freshwater and having unique structures! They’re great fun for adults and kids to explore, and I’ve included a couple of my favorites in the next section.

Related Read: Don’t forget to visit some of the best restaurants in Tulum while you’re checking out the local cenotes!

5. What are the best snorkeling spots in/near Cozumel?

Chankanaab Park/Chankanaab Reef

There are quite a few fantastic beach clubs dotted around Cozumel, but one of the best has to be Chankanaab Park, which sits right in front of the idyllic Chankanaab Reef. It’s one of the most famous spots to snorkel on the island, where you can find colorful coral, schools of fish, and even turtles!

It’s a great spot to spend the day, whether you’re a couple looking to spend a relaxing time down by the shoreline or a family wanting to get stuck into all the activities. And boy, does Chankanaab Adventure Park have plenty of activities on offer! From animal shows to nature walks, and massages to tequila tasting (maybe leave that one for us adults), I’m just scratching the surface when it comes to what’s on offer.

The park is open Monday to Saturday from 8 am through to 4 pm, with tickets available on their website for $26 USD for adults and $19 USD for kids (ages 4-12). However, if you’re looking to go snorkeling (and that’s one of the biggest draws!), then I highly recommend opting for the Chankanaab all-inclusive package.

For just $39 USD for adults and $36 USD for kids, you’ll get access to the unlimited buffet lunch, which also includes soft drinks and two beers for the adults. Plus, this pass also comes with snorkel gear rental for free – what a bonus! Chankanaab is definitely worth checking out, no matter how much time you’re spending on the island – you can check availability and book your VIP package online here.

Palancar Reef

This wouldn’t be an article about Cozumel if we didn’t go into detail on some of the epic reefs you’ll find here! By far, one of the most famous on the island is Palancar Reef, which stretches for around 3.5 miles (5.6 km). You’ll find all kinds of incredible coral formations here, as well as more marine species than you can count. Think turtles, parrotfish, eagle rays, triggerfish, moray eels… The list goes on and on!

One of our favorite experiences in Cozumel was this 4-hour Cozumel snorkeling experience, which included stops at three of the island’s most famous snorkeling spots – Palancar Reef included! We also stopped by Columbia Reef and Playa el Cielo (more on this one next!), while enjoying plenty of snacks, drinks, and, of course, time spent snorkeling!

The guides did such a fantastic job of telling us all about each area we were visiting, giving us all kinds of fun facts about the local species. There were also a few snorkeling beginners with us in the group, and the guides took the time to help them feel comfortable, which was really nice to see.

Tickets for this tour cost $62 USD per person, which I think is a pretty good deal considering you get to enjoy a 4-hour experience! Please also keep in mind that there is an extra marine park fee ($6 USD) which will need to be paid in cash on the day. With the option to head out in the morning or afternoon, don’t forget to book your spot in advance to secure your place on the tour.

El Cielo Beach

El Cielo is another incredible snorkel spot here in Cozumel – it actually translates to ‘Heaven’ in English, and it’s easy to see how it got its name! Famous for its beautiful starfish which you really can’t miss, El Cielo Beach isn’t so much of a beach as it is a shallow sandbar. You can easily see the bottom, which makes it great for beginner snorkelers too.

This 5-hour Cozumel snorkeling experience combines it all – a beach party, a snorkeling excursion, as well as a catamaran cruise! It’s a wonderful experience for all types of travelers, with party games and activities, access to private beach cabanas, volleyball, stand up paddleboarding, and so much more. Of course, you get free snorkel gear rental included too!

With unlimited margaritas (yum!), beers, soda, and water, this really is a steal for just $79 USD per person. It’s an awesome way to make new friends, or just hang out with your buddies and make the most of the good weather and awesome scenery. It is a popular tour though, so make sure to book your spot online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Cenote Chempita (Jade Cavern)

Deep in the Cozumel jungle, you’ll find a gorgeous cenote that’s full of incredible history. Having been owned by one family for generations and preserved in its natural state, Cenote Chempita (or Jade Cavern in English), is a hidden gem on the island that’s an awesome spot to explore and snorkel.

There’s nothing quite like swimming through the underground cave system, with stalactites and stalagmites casting shadows that danced over the water. It really made for a breathtaking experience and we even saw a few fish that had adapted specifically to life in a cenote over centuries!

If you’re looking to explore Jade Cavern and have a few other points of interest on the island you still want to tick off, then I’d suggest giving this 5-hour cenote Jeep adventure a go! You’ll stop by the beautiful Jade Cavern with your friendly guide, who will be happy to tell you all about its incredible history, and, of course, you’ll get to snorkel here too.

I also love that this tour stops by other notable island spots, which makes it a great option if you’re not staying in Cozumel for very long, or just fancy enjoying a well-crafted travel itinerary. And did somebody say tequila tasting?! Tickets for this tour can be booked online here and cost $75 USD per person, which also includes all national park fees and snorkel rental.

6. Is snorkeling in Cozumel safe? 

Yep, snorkeling in Cozumel is very safe and one of the best things to do in Mexico! The currents surrounding the island are naturally quite calm, especially during the dry season when the weather is fairer. While I highly recommend checking out the reefs, it’s also a good idea to visit some local cenotes, especially for those who might not be such strong swimmers.

Of course, if you are swimming out straight from the beach to see what you can find while snorkeling, make sure to keep an eye on the flag system, as this is your best way to see whether the water is safe to enter.

My personal favorite way to explore the reefs (these tend to be quite far out from shore) is by going as part of an organized tour. Not only do these tour operators know the best spots for you to visit (they want good reviews, after all!), but going with a reputable operator helps you feel safer, plus you can get lots of cool perks like snacks, photos, and more. More on these later!

7. Can beginners snorkel in Cozumel?

It’s very easy for beginners to get started snorkeling in Cozumel! Snorkeling is actually super accessible for all ages and fitness levels. It might take a little getting used to breathing through the snorkel if you’ve never done it before, but after a try or two you’ll get the hang of it for sure.

Looking cool as a cucumber with your new snorkel, you’ll get to enjoy what it’s all about, taking in all the sights as you drift along the surface. Keep your eyes feeling for any shy rays hiding amongst the sand, or fish darting in between the coral… The time really flies by!

Related Read: Ready to take things up a notch? I had so much fun going scuba diving in Cancun – you can even earn your PADI certification there!

8. What are the best snorkeling tours in Cozumel?

Invisible Boat Snorkeling Adventure

Okay, so the boat isn’t actually invisible on this 2-hour invisible boat experience, but it’s pretty close! Being pretty much transparent, it’s so easy to see what’s going on underneath the boat, from a range of different angles too. It’s a ton of fun for families especially, although you might find your kids glued to the floor in awe of everything that’s going on!

You’ll also get the chance to go for a dip in the water with your trusty snorkel (they supply all the equipment you need), so you can get up close and personal with all the colorful creatures that call the reefs home.

Tickets for this tour cost just $47 USD per person and include soft drinks/beers, although there is an extra $5 USD marine park fee that is payable in cash on the day. You can check out available dates and book your spot online here.

Cozumel Jeep Adventure with Snorkeling

Jeep tours are pretty popular on Cozumel, and once you’re there you’ll know why! Jeeps allow you to reach pretty much any point of interest you can think of on the island, and this 5-hour private jeep tour will take you to many of the most popular spots in Cozumel!

Joined by your private local guide, you’ll get the chance to visit ancient Mayan towns, a gorgeous cenote, as well as a popular beach club where you can enjoy a well-earned lunch (included in your ticket!). Although, I think my favorite part of this trip had to be when we visited the tequilera, which, as you might be able to guess, is the place to be if you like tequila tasting!

This is a wonderful way to see many of the hotspots that Cozumel has to offer, and it’s also done at a pace where you don’t feel rushed, which was really nice to see. Tickets for this tour cost $87 USD per person and can be booked online here.

The Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour

Do you love turtles? Well, I mean it’s a bit of a silly question, I mean everyone loves turtles! Lucky for us, Cozumel is one of the best places in Mexico to see turtles, and this 4-hour snorkel experience visits some of the biggest turtle hotspots on the island. From a green turtle sanctuary to El Cielo, one of the best places to see starfish in the wild, this tour is turtle-y packed with things to see (pardon the pun!).

With freshly prepped Mexican snacks and plenty of ice-cold drinks, I found this tour to be super relaxed, and the guides did such a great job of introducing every location we visited. With tickets costing $63 USD per person, it’s also fantastic value. Just don’t forget to wear a reef-friendly sunscreen to protect the environment! You can check available dates and book your spot online here.

Cozumel Private Boat Snorkeling Experience

If you’re traveling as part of a group, one of the best ways to explore the reefs and save a bit of money while doing so is to charter a private boat. Dan and I love to do this whenever we’re traveling with friends, as it feels sooo much more personalized, plus I can blast the music that we love!

This 4-hour Cozumel private boat experience offers exactly that, a chance to explore the beautiful reefs at your own pace. You’ll also get to visit famous spots like El Cielo – I just hope your camera has enough space for all the pictures you’ll take! With space for up to 7 passengers, you’ll get to enjoy plenty of snacks, beers, and soft drinks along the way – what’s not to love?

It costs $432 USD to hire out the boat for 4 hours, which works out to a little over $60 USD per person if you fill out every spot (just don’t forget about the $6 USD marine park fee per person). So make sure to bring your friends, family, or your even ex to fill out those spots (maybe avoid the third option). You can see which dates are available and book your experience here!

ATV and Snorkeling by Boat in Cozumel

Boats and jeeps not quite giving you the spark you’re looking for? How about cranking the adrenaline up a notch with this ATV mud kicking and snorkeling experience? Exploring through the jungle to visit the mystical Jade Cenote, it’s such a fun way to let a little steam loose before chilling out at a local beach club and enjoying some well-deserved snorkeling.

Your guide will be there alongside you every step of the way to make sure you’re comfortable and are having a blast. And to top it all off, you have a delicious Mexican lunch with drinks included in your ticket too. Lasting just over 5 hours, this is such a fun way to spend the best part of a day!

With tickets costing $100 USD per person, ATV tours are so much fun and I can vouch for just how memorable they are. Don’t forget to check in advance which dates are available and book your spot to avoid missing out.

9. Is a trip to Tulum worth it for the snorkeling?

Tulum is one of my all-time favorite places to explore cenotes, although many people forget that the reefs here are also lots of fun to check out! If you’ve got a day to spare and are looking for somewhere new to check out, I absolutely recommend going to Tulum – not only is the snorkeling great (with tons of great cenotes), but there are tons of other fun things to do in Tulum too.

Some of my favorite cenotes to snorkel near Tulum are Cenote Dos Ojos, famous for its incredible rock formations and crystal-clear water, and Casa Cenote, which I mentioned earlier and is also close to Playa del Carmen.

If you’ve got an adventurous streak like us, then why not try out an ATV tour near Tulum? There are lots of incredible operators who run tours in the area, and many of these tours also include activities like snorkeling in cenotes. Like this half-day outdoor adventure tour from Playa del Carmen, which includes ATV riding, ziplining, rappelling, and a visit to a cenote. What an action-packed day!

10. Is snorkeling in Cozumel suitable for children?

Absolutely, snorkeling in Cozumel can be a delightful adventure for children, provided they’re confident swimmers and comfortable swimming out at sea. The currents around the island are generally gentle, and the mandatory life jackets for kids add an extra layer of security.

For those little ones who might not yet be strong swimmers or who are experiencing the ocean for the first time, then a cenote for their first snorkeling adventure could be a fantastic alternative. There’s lots of fun to be had exploring these natural sinkholes, whether that’s checking out weird and wonderful rock structures or getting to know some new fishy friends!

I’ve seen lots of kids out on snorkel tours and hanging out at cenotes, so I can confidently say that kids can have a wonderful time giving it a go here. Going snorkeling was always one of my favorite things to do as a kid, and snorkeling here in Cozumel will definitely give them some lasting memories!

11. Scuba diving vs snorkeling in Cozumel

Snorkeling is an accessible, easy, and family-friendly activity, and compared to scuba diving it’s an excellent choice for those who prefer something a little more easy-going! For that reason, it’s a great option for beginners who’ve never tried snorkeling or scuba diving, or those with young families.

You won’t need much equipment or training for snorkeling, however you do have a limit on how deep you can explore!

On the flip side, scuba diving opens up a whole new world of underwater exploration, and you can really feel immersed being on the same level as the reefs. With a standard open water certification allowing you to dive up to 18 meters (59 feet), you can find all kinds of hidden areas that you just can’t see from the surface.

That said, scuba diving requires a lot more preparation, including certifications (unless you try a discovery dive), gear rental, and potentially hiring a guide. It’s also important to note that it may not be suitable for all age groups and those with specific medical conditions!

If you are keen on giving scuba diving a try, then you really couldn’t have picked a better place. The reefs around Cozumel are famous in the scuba diving community, and ticking off a dive (or two) here really is a rite of passage at this point.

For those just starting out with scuba, this private scuba diving discovery experience lasts three hours and is the perfect introduction to the world of scuba! With all the necessary gear you’ll need included, the lesson goes exactly at a pace you’re comfortable with, and you’ll have a PADI-certified guide alongside you the whole time. Plus it’s super affordable at just $85 USD per person!

If you already have your PADI certification, then this 4-hour certified scuba tour will give you the deep dive you’re looking for into Cozumel’s wonderful reefs. With two tanks, you’ll get to explore the marine reserve, swim alongside your guide, and relax back on the boat whenever you need to.

12. Is snorkeling in Cozumel worth it? 

Snorkeling in Cozumel is 110% worth it! Not only is it super accessible, whether you decide to go solo or as part of a tour, but you really couldn’t ask for a better environment to do it.

Dan and I love coming back and exploring the reefs when we can, and we’re sure you’ll have a whale of a time (sorry!) trying it out for yourself. So whether you’re traveling as a group, as a couple, or by yourself, don’t miss out on a chance to see the Cozumel reefs for yourself.

Other Activities to do While You’re in Cozumel

Snorkeling is definitely one of the biggest draws for me when visiting, but there are tons more fun things to do in Cozumel! From hanging out at one of the many great beach clubs to taking a private jeep tour to explore the island, it’s easy to fill up your time here.

Here are a few personal picks from us that we think you’ll enjoy too!

• Spend the day at Paradise Beach Club – If you’re traveling with family or friends, then the Paradise Beach Club is well worth a visit. This resort has its own private beach, plenty of beach umbrellas for relaxing in the shade, as well as its very own floating waterpark – sounds like a ton of fun! You can grab your all-inclusive 8-hour pass online here.

• Visit the Museo de Cozumel – If you’re a big fan of history (and Mexico has a lot of it!), then you’ll want to stop by Museo de Cozumel. There are all kinds of amazing permanent exhibits here, like the one dedicated to the ancient Mayan goddess Ixchel, as well as temporary exhibits from local and international artists! Entrance costs $9 USD per person and can be booked on their website.

• Take a private jeep tour – For an intimate experience exploring the best spots the island has to offer, I’d recommend grabbing your friends and family and heading out on a private island tour, like this 5 to 6-hour Jeep excursion! This is a self-operated tour where you’ll follow your guide in a separate vehicle, and you can totally customize your itinerary to whatever you wish to explore.

• Explore Cozumel on two wheels – If exploring the island at a slower pace is more your thing, then why not rent out a bike while you stay? I’ve found that the hotels and resorts around the island offer better rates than the standalone rental shops. But if you prefer cycling as part of a sightseeing experience, then this 3-hour Cozumel E-bike tour would be right up your street.

• Try out an authentic cooking class – Cooking classes have to be one of my all-time favorite things to do when I’m traveling – it’s such a great way to get to know the local culture and take some new skills back home with you! This 3-hour farm-to-table cooking experience will teach you how to cook some authentic Mexican dishes, right from the farms where the ingredients come from.

Where to Stay in Cozumel

There are plenty of great places to stay in Cozumel, with hotels catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets! Whether you’re a family looking for a suite or a couple looking for a romantic stay away, you’ve got some great options to choose from.

Here are a few of our favorites!

Caribo Cozumel – $

Located in the heart of San Miguel de Cozumel, Caribo Cozumel is just a short walk from the main square and the ferry terminal. The rooms are simple but clean, and the staff are also very friendly!

This hotel is a great option for budget travelers who are looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay in a central location. You’ll also find a fully-equipped kitchen with free coffee for guests, free Wi-Fi, a small pool with a terrace and patio, and it’s within walking distance from the supermarket, many restaurants, and diving shops!

One night here in a double room starts from $35 USD per person, and you can check availability and reserve on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

Playa Azul Hotel – $$

Playa Azul is located only a minute from the beach, so you can enjoy stunning ocean views from the comfort of your room. The rooms are spacious and air-conditioned and come with a private balcony or patio. This hotel also features an outdoor pool and on-site golf course that guests can use for free throughout their stay.

The hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar, as well as a sun deck, spa, and complimentary breakfast buffet every morning. All rooms at Playa Azul include a private balcony with views of the Caribbean Sea, satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi.

The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the service is excellent. The prices start at around $195 USD per night, which is very reasonable considering the location and amenities! Book Playa Azul Hotel online on Booking.com.

El Cozumeleno Beach Resort – $$$

If you’re looking for a luxurious resort experience, look no further than El Cozumeleno Beach Resort! This all-inclusive resort is located on one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Cozumel, with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and sparkling blue waters.

The resort offers a variety of on-site restaurants and bars, as well as water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, boogie boarding, and scuba diving. There is also a spa, fitness center, and kids club.

The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, with private balconies or patios that offer stunning views of the ocean. The prices start at around $270 USD per night, which includes all meals, drinks, and activities. You should book El Cozumelo Beach Resort online in advance as it’s a popular one that can be fully booked!

Renting a Car in Mexico

Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car. 

I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically. 

I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. 

The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too. 

Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit. 

Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper! 

Thanks for Reading!

Home to some of the best beaches in Mexico, it’s no wonder that Cozumel draws in the crowds every year – we love it every time we come back! Snorkeling is an absolute must, whether you’re flying solo or traveling as part of a group, the reefs are just that fun to explore.

Do let us know what your travel plans are in the comments, and don’t forget you check out some of our other Mexico blogs for some extra inspiration! I’ve also pinned three related reads below that I think you’ll find helpful:

BEST Tours in Mexico City + 5 Things to Know!

Top Things you NEED to Know about the Day of the Dead in Mexico

BEST Mayan Ruins in Mexico and How to Visit Them