5 Best Snorkeling Spots Near Tulum Only Locals Know About

Tulum is known for its turquoise waters, dreamy beaches, and ancient ruins – but if you ask the locals, the real magic lies under the surface.

Beyond the popular tourist beaches, there are hidden cenotes, coral gardens, and quiet coves where the water stays crystal-clear and the marine life is nothing short of mesmerizing.

If you’re ready to trade crowded tours for something more authentic, here are the best snorkeling spots near Tulum that only locals know about – plus a few insider tips to make the most of your trip.

1. Akumal Bay

Distance from Tulum: ~30 minutes north
Highlights: Sea turtles, calm reef, clear shallow water

If you ask locals where to find sea turtles, they’ll point you straight to Akumal Bay. The name “Akumal” actually means Place of the Turtles in Mayan, and the name couldn’t be more fitting.

This protected bay is one of the few places where you can swim alongside green sea turtles grazing in the seagrass. You’ll also see rays, colorful parrotfish, and schools of small tropical fish.

Getting here by boat gives you an advantage: you can approach the bay from offshore and snorkel right over the reef without having to deal with beach entry lines or crowds.

Best time to visit: Early morning for calm waters and guaranteed turtle sightings.
Local tip: Bring a rash guard instead of sunscreen – it protects the turtles and the reef.

2. Soliman Bay

Distance from Tulum: ~15 minutes north
Highlights: Coral gardens, quiet waters, hidden luxury

Soliman Bay is one of those places that locals quietly love and hope never becomes overrun. The calm, shallow bay is perfect for relaxed snorkeling, and the coral reef just offshore is full of angelfish, butterflyfish, and even small rays.

It’s a semi-private bay lined with villas, so the best way to experience it is by private boat. You can anchor outside the reef, slip into the water, and explore without disturbing the peace onshore.

Because the area is protected and rarely crowded, the water here stays clear and still – perfect for beginners or anyone who prefers slow, scenic snorkeling.

Best for: Peaceful reef snorkeling and local charm.
Pro tip: Ask your captain to time your visit mid-morning when the sun lights up the coral.

3. Punta Allen (Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve)

Distance from Tulum: ~2.5 hours south (by road or boat)
Highlights: Dolphins, manatees, untouched reefs

If you want to see wild, untouched beauty, head to Punta Allen. It sits deep inside the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with mangroves, lagoons, and some of the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean.

Most locals prefer to reach it by boat, not road – the drive is long and bumpy, but the sea route is smooth and full of life. Along the way, you might spot dolphins, sea turtles, and even manatees in the lagoon.

Snorkeling here feels completely natural – no crowds, no boats stacked side by side, just open ocean and clear blue water.

Best for: Adventure seekers and eco-conscious travelers.
Tip: Go with an experienced local captain who knows the reserve’s safe entry points.

4. Playa Ruinas (Tulum Ruins Beach)

Distance from Tulum town: ~5–10 minutes by boat
Highlights: Ancient ruins, reef, unique view

This one’s a hidden gem even among locals.

Playa Ruinas sits just below the famous Tulum archaeological site, where the Mayan ruins overlook the Caribbean. Most tourists visit the ruins by land, but few realize you can snorkel near the small reef offshore – with a view of the ruins above you.

Approaching by boat makes it even better. You get a panoramic view of the cliffs and temples from the water, and then you can drop anchor for a quick snorkel session over coral and tropical fish.

Best for: Combining sightseeing and snorkeling in one trip.
Local tip: Go early morning or just before sunset for calm water and golden light on the ruins.

5. Tankah Bay

Distance from Tulum: ~10 minutes north
Highlights: Calm bay, nearshore reef, family-friendly waters

Just a short ride from Tulum, Tankah Bay is a quiet coastal area where freshwater cenotes meet the sea. The shallow reef here is ideal for relaxed snorkeling – full of small coral heads, seagrass patches, and schools of tropical fish.

Since it’s less developed than other beaches, getting there by private boat means you can enjoy it without crowds. You can also pair it with nearby stops like Soliman Bay for a full morning of snorkeling and beach time.

Best for: Families or groups who want calm, easy snorkeling.
Pro tip: Pack a dry bag – it’s a great spot for a beach picnic after snorkeling.

Snorkeling Tips From Locals

• Bring biodegradable sunscreen. Regular sunscreens harm reefs and cenotes.
• Use your own snorkel gear if possible (cleaner and better fitting).
• Go early or late. Most cenotes and beaches are quieter at sunrise or just before closing.
• Respect nature. Don’t touch coral, wildlife, or stalactites.
• Cash only. Most cenotes charge small entry fees and don’t accept cards.

When to Go Snorkeling in Tulum

The best snorkeling season runs from November to May, when the Caribbean is calm and visibility can reach up to 100 feet.

The summer months (June to October) bring warmer water and fewer crowds, but also the occasional rain shower – still great if you plan a flexible private trip.

Why Go by Boat Instead of Shore

Many of Tulum’s reefs and bays are best seen from the sea. By renting a private boat, you can:

• Reach multiple snorkeling spots in one trip
• Avoid crowded beaches and tour buses
• Access exclusive areas like Soliman Bay and Punta Allen
• Bring your own gear, snacks, and schedule
• Experience Tulum’s coastline from a new angle

It’s the easiest way to explore at your own pace – especially if you value comfort, privacy, and local expertise.

Plan Your Snorkeling Adventure

If you’re ready to explore Tulum’s best snorkeling spots by boat, check out Tulum Boat Rentals.

They offer customizable private charters, from half-day turtle-spotting trips in Akumal Bay to full-day adventures down to Sian Ka’an.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, you can plan your perfect route, stop wherever the water looks irresistible, and enjoy the Caribbean your way.

Visit Tulum Boat Rentals to start planning your snorkeling trip today.