Costa Maya Snorkeling Tour: 3 reef sites with guide

Three reef zones in one morning, then the beach is yours

You’ll swim right above Costa Maya’s famous reef with a local guide showing you turtles and colorful fish, then relax on clean sand with fresh fruit and drinks. Photos are included so you can actually be in them for once, and if you want more adventure, kayaks and paddleboards are waiting nearby.

Step-by-step itinerary

Snorkel and beach activities at Costa Maya

• Explore coral reef with guide
• Observe diverse marine fish species
• Visit turtle feeding area
• Enjoy beach on sargassum-free shore
• Relax on camastros or kayak
• Receive water, refreshment, and fruit

The experience

We shuffled down to the water’s edge in Costa Maya just as the sun started burning off that sleepy haze. I could already smell salt in the air (sharp, but not heavy), and our guide, Luis, handed me a snorkel mask with a grin that said he’d done this a thousand times. He pointed out where the second biggest barrier reef in the world stretches out just offshore. I didn’t realize how close it really was until we slipped into the water: suddenly everything went quiet except for my own bubbles. A parrotfish darted by so fast I almost missed it.

Luis led us through three different spots along the reef. The first was all these weirdly shaped corals: brain coral, fire coral (don’t touch that one), and something that looked like antlers underwater. He tapped his fingers together to get our attention when a turtle glided past, slow, almost lazy. I’m pretty sure I grinned like an idiot behind my snorkel. There were angel fish too, flashes of yellow and blue everywhere you turned. At one point my mask fogged up and I had to surface. Luis laughed and showed me how to spit in it (gross but effective). He took GoPro photos while we swam. I still think about how awkward my hair looked floating around my face.

Afterwards we just flopped onto these loungers under palm trees: no sargassum anywhere, which was honestly a relief after what I’d heard about other beaches lately. Someone brought out cold bottled water and slices of mango that tasted like sunshine. You could grab a kayak or paddleboard if you wanted (I tried both for about five minutes before giving up and watching pelicans instead). It all felt pretty easygoing: nobody rushed us back or tried to sell anything extra. The whole day trip from Costa Maya was just simple, salty fun with good people around.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkel gear plus GoPro photos taken by your guide as you swim above the reef. Afterward you’ll have bottled water, soda or pop, fresh seasonal fruit to snack on, access to loungers shaded by palms (with no sargassum), as well as kayaks and stand-up paddleboards if you feel like paddling around before heading back.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day5 departure times: the first at 09:00, the last at 15:00

AgesAdult (18 to 80 years) · Infant (3 to 17 years) · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupUp to 14

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 6 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 5

Prices and times updated 14 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by La Tempestad Tours

Traveler reviews

4.89★★★★★★★★★★

179 verified traveler reviews

5 ★167

4 ★6

3 ★5

2 ★1

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Infant (3 to 17 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long does the Costa Maya snorkel tour last?

The activity itself takes several hours including snorkeling at three areas plus time to relax on the beach afterwards.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included for guests.

Are GoPro photos included in the Costa Maya snorkel tour?

Yes, your guide will take GoPro photos during the excursion for you.

Can I use kayaks or paddleboards after snorkeling?

Yes, kayaks and SUP boards are available for use after your snorkel tour.

Is there food or drink included on this day trip?

You’ll get bottled water, soda or pop, and seasonal fruit after snorkeling.

Is this Costa Maya snorkel tour suitable for beginners?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Guides help everyone feel comfortable.

Does this beach have sargassum seaweed problems?

No, this beach is kept free of sargassum so you can enjoy clean sand.