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Photo courtesy of Kristin Busse
National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos
Type: Outdoor Activities - Summer, Parks, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling, Uniquely Here
10Best Says
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world, runs parallel to the Yucatan Peninsula. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is the only reef that is larger. At the National... Read More
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world, runs parallel to the Yucatan Peninsula. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is the only reef that is larger. At the National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos, the reef is closer to the shore than in other areas of the Riviera Maya, and in 1998, this section of the reef became a protected area. Snorkeling tours and scuba diving trips are available from several dive shops in the small, seaside town of Puerto Morelos. It's illegal to swim out to the reef from the shore. To protect the reef, all snorkelers and divers must go out to the reef with guides.
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EXPERT TIPS BY:
Kristin Busse
Cancún Local Expert
- Romantic Things to Do, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: "Book a snorkel or dive tour. Individuals are not allowed to swim out to the reef on their own. You must go with an accredited guide."
- Parks: "Individuals are not allowed to swim out to the reef on their own. You must hire an accredited guide."
- Best for Romantic Things to Do Because: At the National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos, visitors can explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef just a few meters off shore.
- Best for Parks Because: It's easy to get to the reef in Puerto Morelos and a snorkeling tour won't take up the entire day.
- Best for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Because: The National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos is just a few hundred meters offshore and it's easy to hire a local guide on the beach.