Explore Contoy Island: Snorkel the Great Mayan Reef and Visit Isla Mujeres
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–10 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable swimming in open water and short on-deck mobility required
Overview
Spend a day cutting across the Caribbean to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres: snorkel the second-largest barrier reef, spot nesting seabirds, and relax over a beachfront Tikin Xic lunch. This guided trip balances wildlife viewing with practical guidance for swimmers and first-time snorkelers.
Explore Contoy Island: Snorkel the Great Mayan Reef and Visit Isla Mujeres
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The boat pulls away from the Cancun shoreline with a collective exhale; city noise falls away and the Caribbean takes the lead. Salt air brushes your face, the ocean stretching flat and confident as you cut toward a thin green dot on the horizon—Isla Contoy. Onboard, a guide checks masks and hands out cold water; on deck, the sea seems to dare you to look closer. Within an hour the hull slows and the first blue of the reef appears beneath the surface, a living map of coral ridges and patches of white sand.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring cash for park fees
Dock tax and the National Park access fee must be paid in cash the day of the excursion—bring small bills.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
The park is protected; choose biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen to avoid damaging coral.
Be honest about your swimming ability
Snorkeling is recommended only for strong swimmers 12+ due to open-water currents—consider a guided float if unsure.
Protect camera gear
Salt spray and sand are relentless—use a waterproof case or dry bag for electronics and take lens-cleaning cloths.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelican
- Green sea turtle
History
Isla Contoy served as a navigational landmark for seafarers; its designation as a protected reserve in the 20th century prioritized bird nesting sites and marine habitats.
Conservation
Contoy is a federal natural reserve with strict visitor limits—follow ranger instructions, avoid touching coral, and use only reef-safe products to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cancún
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects coral and your skin during prolonged sun exposure on deck and at the beach.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Captures underwater life and shoreline views without risking gear to salt and spray.
Light long-sleeve rashguard
Provides sun protection on the boat and while snorkeling without overheating.
summer specific
Water shoes
Useful for rocky patches on landing and walking short trails on Contoy