10 Best Snorkeling Spots Near Tulum Only Locals Know About
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.
Tulum Boat Experiences: Bucket-List Adventures You Can’t Miss
Tulum Boat Experiences: Bucket-List Adventures You Can’t Miss
Tulum has become one of Mexico’s most sought-after destinations for good reason. It offers a mix of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, Mayan ruins, and lively nightlife.
But if you want to unlock the best experiences in Tulum, you’ll need to get off the shore and onto the sea. Renting a boat or yacht in Tulum opens access to spots you simply can’t reach by land.
Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, here are the top bucket-list experiences in Tulum that are better by boat.
1. Visit Hidden Beaches Along the Riviera Maya
Tulum’s main beach is beautiful, but it can get crowded during peak season. By renting a boat, you can slip away to untouched beaches along the Riviera Maya that remain out of reach for most visitors.
These hidden gems are ideal for swimming in calm, clear waters, enjoying a picnic on soft white sand, or simply savoring a quiet moment without the bustle of tourists.
Many are cut off from roads and only accessible by sea, which means you’ll often have the entire stretch of sand to yourself. Arriving by boat turns what could be a day at the beach into a private escape.
2. Snorkel Coral Reefs on a Tulum Boat Tour
The Caribbean waters around Tulum are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
Just offshore, you’ll find tropical fish darting among coral gardens, graceful sea turtles gliding by, and the occasional ray sweeping across the seafloor.
While you can snorkel from the shoreline in a few spots, the most vibrant reefs lie farther out. A boat takes you directly to those healthy reef systems and even allows you to explore several in a single trip.
Some tours also stop near cenote outlets where freshwater meets the ocean, creating a fascinating underwater mix of ecosystems you won’t see anywhere else.
3. Explore Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve by Sea
Just south of Tulum lies the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its untouched beauty and incredible biodiversity. The reserve is home to mangroves, lagoons, dolphins, manatees, and countless bird species.
While parts of Sian Ka’an are accessible by road, the most pristine areas are best explored by boat.
Cruising through its waters lets you witness wildlife in their natural habitat, stop at remote beaches, and truly appreciate the vastness of this protected region. Traveling by sea gives you a direct connection to the parts of the reserve that few visitors ever see.
4. Swim with Sea Turtles in Akumal
A short ride from Tulum brings you to Akumal, one of the best places in Mexico to see green sea turtles. Here, you can snorkel in shallow waters where turtles graze on seagrass beds, making encounters almost guaranteed.
Akumal is a popular destination by land, which means the beach can get busy. Arriving by boat changes the experience entirely. Instead of competing with shoreline crowds, you’ll head straight to the turtle-feeding areas offshore.
It’s a calmer, more respectful way to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime swim with these gentle creatures.
5. Tulum Boat Sunset Cruises
Watching the sun dip below the horizon in Tulum is always beautiful, but nothing compares to seeing it from the water. On a private sunset cruise, the Caribbean stretches out around you while the sky transforms into shades of gold, pink, and violet.
From the deck of your boat, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the coastline without the noise of beach bars or the press of crowds. Add music, cocktails, or even a chef-prepared dinner on board, and it becomes more than just a sunset – it’s an evening you’ll always remember.
6. Celebrate Special Occasions with Tulum Boat Rentals
Birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, or even proposals feel unforgettable when celebrated at sea. Chartering a yacht in Tulum allows you to design the day your way – whether that means champagne on deck, a private dinner, or a swim stop at a secluded beach.
The privacy of a yacht creates an intimate setting that’s hard to match on land. Instead of squeezing into a crowded venue, you’ll have the Caribbean as your backdrop. For anyone wanting a unique way to mark a milestone, a yacht celebration sets the bar high.
7. See the Tulum Ruins from the Water
The Tulum Ruins are one of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean. Most visitors experience them on foot, but few know you can also admire them from the sea.
Approaching the ruins by boat gives you a rare perspective – the temples framed by turquoise water and rising cliffs.
The contrast between ancient stone structures and the natural setting makes for some of the best photos you’ll capture in Tulum. Plus, you get to enjoy the view without weaving through tourist crowds at the entrance.
8. Experience Tulum Nightlife at Sea
Tulum’s nightlife is famous, but instead of hitting a beach club, consider taking the party offshore. Private boats and catamarans offer evening charters where DJs, dancing, and cocktails unfold under the stars.
It’s a completely different vibe – more exclusive than a club, but still full of energy. The combination of music, moonlight, and open sea makes for a night out that feels both festive and extraordinary.
9. Go Deep-Sea Fishing in Tulum
For those who love fishing, Tulum offers excellent opportunities offshore. The waters here are rich with mahi-mahi, wahoo, barracuda, and even sailfish during certain seasons.
Local captains know the best spots, provide gear, and often share fishing techniques passed down through generations.
A private charter allows you to combine the thrill of fishing with relaxation on deck. And if you’re lucky, your crew may prepare your catch right on the boat for the freshest meal possible.
10. Island Hop to Cozumel or Isla Mujeres
One of the best things about renting a boat in Tulum is the freedom to go beyond the town itself.
Islands like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are within reach, each offering their own charm – Cozumel with its world-class diving and Isla Mujeres with its laid-back beaches and lively downtown.
Taking a ferry is possible, but it’s crowded and inflexible. With a private boat, you control the itinerary, whether you want to snorkel reefs along the way, enjoy a leisurely cruise, or stay overnight for a true island-hopping adventure.
11. Whale Shark Tours (Seasonal)
From June to September, whale sharks gather near the Yucatan Peninsula, creating one of the most remarkable wildlife encounters on Earth. Despite their size, these gentle giants are filter feeders, harmless to humans, and breathtaking to see up close.
Reaching them requires a boat, and joining a guided tour ensures the experience is both safe and respectful. Swimming alongside a whale shark is something very few people can say they’ve done, and it’s only possible out at sea with an experienced crew.
12. Private Beach BBQs and Onboard Dining
Some yacht charters in Tulum go beyond sightseeing by offering full culinary experiences. You might enjoy fresh ceviche and cocktails prepared onboard, or stop at a secluded beach for a barbecue with freshly caught seafood.
Eating at sea adds a layer of enjoyment you can’t get from a restaurant meal. Surrounded by turquoise water and good company, even simple dishes feel extraordinary. It’s a way to combine relaxation, local flavors, and the unique atmosphere of the Caribbean.
Ready to check these experiences off your list?
Many people come to Tulum for its beaches, nightlife, and history.
But to truly experience everything this destination has to offer, you need to take to the water. From swimming with turtles and exploring reefs to hosting your own yacht party, these adventures simply aren’t the same without a boat.
If you’re ready to turn your trip into something unforgettable, book your private yacht or boat today with Tulum Boat Rentals.