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National park · Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo
Parque Nacional Arrecife de Puerto Morelos
The coral reef in front of Puerto Morelos, a few hundred meters from the beach, protected as a national park and visited on guided snorkeling trips.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Parque Nacional Arrecife de Puerto Morelos
The Parque Nacional Arrecife de Puerto Morelos protects the stretch of the Mesoamerican Reef System in front of the village. It was created in 1998 at the request of the residents themselves, and extends along about 20 km of coast. The reef lies a few hundred meters from the beach and forms a barrier that keeps the sea between it and the sand calm and shallow.
Snorkeling is done at shallow points, with brain corals, elk-horn corals, sea fans and schools of colorful fish. Rays and turtles commonly appear in the seagrass along the way. Visibility is better on windless days.
Visits are only allowed with registered guides and boats in the park, which depart from the beach at the square and from the village pier. Tours follow rules on the number of people and permitted sites to reduce impact on the coral.
The park charges a conservation wristband, separate from the boat tour. Biodegradable sunscreen and a life jacket are required.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1½ to 2 hours on the boat tour.
Best time
In the morning, when the wind is usually weaker and the water clearer. December to April is the driest season.
How to get there
Boats depart from the beach at the central square and from Puerto Morelos pier. Book at the registered guides' hut.
Tip
Use biodegradable sunscreen and a life jacket. Do not step on or touch the corals.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Nacional Arrecife de Puerto Morelos
Is the Puerto Morelos reef far from the beach?
No. It is a few hundred meters away, a few minutes by boat.
Do you need a guide for snorkeling in Puerto Morelos?
Yes. Visits to the national park are done with registered guides and boats.
Does the park charge a fee?
It charges a conservation wristband, separate from the boat tour.