Isla Contoy Adventure Tour from Playa del Carmen — Snorkel Arrecife Ixlaché & Isla Mujeres Day Trip
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderate fitness: must be able to climb boat ladders, walk sandy and uneven terrain, and swim short snorkel distances.
Overview
Spend a day on a two-level catamaran snorkeling Arrecife Ixlaché, exploring the protected shores of Isla Contoy (limited to 200 visitors daily), and finishing with a stroll through Isla Mujeres. This 7–8 hour trip blends reef dives, guided ecology walks, and local culture in one loop.
Isla Contoy Adventure Tour from Playa del Carmen — Snorkel Arrecife Ixlaché & Isla Mujeres Day Trip
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The catamaran heels slightly as it leaves Punta Sam; salt-slick spray laces the rail while turquoise strips of sea race under the hull. On deck, laughter and the shuffle of fins puncture a morning that still smells faintly of hotel coffee and sunscreen. The first stop is Arrecife Ixlaché, a ribbon of coral that will pull you underwater—schools of parrotfish and wriggling angelfish navigating coral fingers—before the boat slips toward Isla Contoy, a protected island that permits only 200 visitors a day.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential—use biodegradable formulas to protect coral and apply before boarding; reapply after snorkeling.
Protect your feet
Light water shoes make moving on sand, reef flats, and boat ladders far safer and more comfortable.
Hydrate and shade up
Carry a refillable bottle and a lightweight cover-up or hat—midday sun reflects off white sand and heats quickly.
Plan for the dock fee
A dock fee (approx. $20) is charged locally—have cash or check card acceptance with your operator ahead of time.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- frigatebird
- green sea turtle
History
Isla Contoy has been managed as a protected reserve for decades and functions primarily as a bird sanctuary and breeding ground tied to local fisheries and conservation efforts.
Conservation
Visitor limits, dock fees, and strict no-touch rules are enforced to protect nesting seabirds and fragile reefs; using reef-safe products and following guide instructions helps preserve the area.
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Adventure Hotspots in Playa del Carmen
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin from intense sun while preventing chemical damage to corals.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet on boat decks, reef flats, and when exiting in shallow surf.
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Useful on breezy crossings or if tropical squalls roll through during wet season.
fall specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial in the strong sun; refill on board if allowed.