Tulum: Reef Snorkeling Tour with Two Stops & Gear

Summary

Snorkel Tulum’s reef, spot turtles & ruins from the sea

You’ll snorkel two lively reef spots near Tulum with local guidance — swimming alongside turtles and rays beneath the shadow of ancient ruins. Expect salty hair, some laughter at your underwater flailing (it happens), and real moments above and below water that linger long after you’ve rinsed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to float just offshore from Tulum’s ancient ruins, salt in your hair and that weird mix of sunscreen and seaweed in the air? I didn’t expect to care about the view above water — but our guide, Diego, pointed out El Castillo perched up there like a stubborn old king. The boat rocked a little while I tried (and failed) to take a photo without my finger in it. There was this breeze that made everything smell faintly of lime and wet stone.

We stopped at two different reef spots — not far apart, maybe ten minutes by boat if that — but they felt totally different. The first had these lazy turtles gliding around like they owned the place. Diego handed me a mask and I swear I could hear my own breath louder than anything else. Fish darted everywhere, all colors you’d find in a fruit market. At one point I got startled by a stingray flapping up from the sand — Diego laughed and said they’re regulars here. He knows everyone, even underwater.

The second spot was shallower, more sunlight flickering through the water. It was quieter down there; you could almost forget there were other boats nearby. My goggles fogged up but honestly, I didn’t mind — sometimes it’s better when things aren’t crystal clear. After two hours we washed up back on Tulum beach, sand sticking everywhere (how does it get inside your shirt?). Still thinking about those slow-moving turtles days later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Two-hour snorkeling tour in Tulum

• Start route from Tulum Archaeological Zone
• Take photos of El Castillo and Casa del Brujo
• Snorkel in first spot of Tulum National Park
• Snorkel in second spot of Tulum National Park
• Swim with stingrays, turtles, and tropical fish
• Return to Tulum beach

Top questions

How long is the snorkeling tour in Tulum?

The snorkeling tour lasts approximately two hours from start to finish.

Are snorkeling equipment and gear included?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in the tour price.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins on Tulum beach, near the Archaeological Zone.

Will we see turtles or stingrays during snorkeling?

You have a good chance to see turtles, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish at both reef spots.

Is pickup included for this Tulum snorkeling tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet directly at Tulum beach for this experience.

Is this day trip suitable for beginners or kids?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; infants and small children can join with a stroller or pram.

Does the price include entry to Jaguars Park?

No, access to Jaguars Park is not included in this snorkeling experience.

Are Federal Maritime Zone taxes included?

No, Federal Maritime Zone taxes are not included in the cost of this experience.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all necessary snorkeling equipment as you explore two different reef spots just off Tulum beach with a local guide before returning sandy but happy to shore—note that entry fees for Jaguars Park or Federal Maritime Zone taxes aren’t covered in this experience.