Cancun: Puerto Morelos Reef Snorkeling & Beach Lunch

Summary

Snorkeling the Great Maya Reef then tacos by the sea in Puerto Morelos

You’ll slip into warm Caribbean waters near Cancun to snorkel above vibrant coral and spot curious fish at Puerto Morelos reef. Afterward, relax over fresh fish tacos with your toes in the sand and wander through town at your own pace. A day of simple joys—salt air, laughter, and those small moments you can’t plan for.

What’s the experience like?

The van ride from Cancun to Puerto Morelos was shorter than I expected — maybe 15 minutes, but it felt like less because our guide, Luis, kept pointing out weird little things along the road (like that shop with the inflatable flamingos). The air smelled salty before we even reached the sand. I’d never seen water that blue — not just postcard blue, but kind of shifting with the clouds. Luis handed us our snorkel gear and gave a quick demo, and honestly, I was nervous about using a brand new snorkel tube (I always wonder if I’m doing it wrong), but he checked everyone’s fit before we waded in.

Once we were out over the reef, everything got quiet except for my own breathing and some distant laughter from another group. The coral looked almost fake — like someone painted it too bright on purpose — and there were these little yellow fish darting everywhere. At one point Luis pointed at something below; I thought it was just another rock until it moved — a turtle, slow as anything. The current tugged at my legs, not hard but enough to remind me I wasn’t in a pool. And yeah, no sunscreen allowed here (they’re strict about protecting the reef), so I wore this ridiculous long-sleeve swim shirt that made me feel like a superhero or maybe just someone’s dad.

Back on shore my hair was full of salt and my arms felt heavy in that good way you get after swimming. We walked straight to Boquinete for lunch — right on the beach, plastic chairs half buried in sand. Fish tacos came out fast; they tasted better than any I’ve had back home, probably because I could still smell the sea while eating them. There was this couple next to us arguing softly about whether to go shopping or nap on the beach after lunch. Honestly, both sounded good.

I wandered through Puerto Morelos for a bit after eating — saw that leaning lighthouse everyone talks about (it really does look like it’s had one too many margaritas). The market stalls were setting up for afternoon crowds but it still felt sleepy. On the drive back to Cancun, sunburn creeping up my neck despite all precautions, I kept replaying that moment underwater when time slowed down around the turtle. Still think about it sometimes when things get noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel reef and enjoy beach lunch

• Snorkel at Great Maya Reef
• Dry off and eat beachside lunch
• Explore Puerto Morelos town

Top questions

How far is Puerto Morelos from Cancun?

It’s about a 15-minute drive from Cancun to Puerto Morelos.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkel equipment is included: mask, fins, and a brand new snorkel tube.

Is hotel pickup included from Cancun?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying in Cancun.

Can children join the snorkeling activity?

Children aged 6 and up can participate if they can swim on their own and are accompanied by an adult.

Is lunch included after snorkeling?

Yes, lunch is included at Boquinete restaurant by the beach in Puerto Morelos.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Can I use sunscreen during snorkeling?

No, sunscreen is not allowed to protect the reef; wearing a sun protection swim shirt is recommended instead.

How long do we spend snorkeling on the reef?

The snorkeling portion lasts about one hour over the Great Maya Reef.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun, all necessary snorkel equipment (including mask, fins, and a new snorkel tube), lockers for your belongings while you’re in the water, guidance from a professional local guide throughout your reef adventure, plus a relaxed beachside lunch at Boquinete before heading back home.