Puerto Morelos is the laid-back side of the Mexican Caribbean. This town of about 19,000 people sits halfway between Cancún and Playa del Carmen, yet keeps the feel of a fishing village, with a small square, a pier and a long white beach. Just offshore, the reef of the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park shelters calm water and colourful coral.
Why visit Puerto Morelos
For easy snorkelling close to shore, quiet beaches without big crowds, a relaxed village atmosphere, good seafood and a short hop to the airport, cenotes and the rest of the Riviera Maya.
Top things to do in Puerto Morelos
Snorkelling on the reef
Boats leave from the beach for the protected reef a few hundred metres away, part of the great Mesoamerican Reef. Snorkelling here must be done with authorised guides.
The leaning lighthouse
The old lighthouse, tilted by a hurricane, has become the symbol of the town and its resilience.
The beach and the square
A long beach of fine sand, the pier, and the main square with cafés, craft stalls and seafood restaurants.
Ruta de los Cenotes
A road inland lined with cenotes – natural swimming holes in the jungle, some with zip lines.
Botanical garden
The Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín botanical garden has jungle trails, native plants and a small Maya house.
Day trips from Puerto Morelos
Cancún and Playa del Carmen are each about 30 minutes away, and Cozumel, Tulum and the ruins of Cobá are easy day trips.
Best time to visit Puerto Morelos
December to April is sunny and less humid, the high season. May to November is hotter and more humid, with the hurricane season from June to November. Some summers bring sargassum seaweed to the beaches.
Getting to and around Puerto Morelos
Cancún International Airport is about 20 minutes away by taxi or shuttle. ADO buses and colectivos run along the main highway between Cancún and Playa del Carmen. The village centre is walkable; a car helps for the cenote route.
What to eat in Puerto Morelos
Fresh fish tacos, ceviche, whole fried fish, tikin xic, Yucatecan dishes and tropical fruit juices.
Puerto Morelos FAQ
Is Puerto Morelos good for families?
Yes: the reef keeps the water calm, and the town is quieter than Cancún or Playa del Carmen.
Can you snorkel from the beach?
The reef is reached by boat; snorkelling in the national park is done on guided tours.
