Puerto Morelos: Reef Snorkeling Trip with Beachside Lunch

If you’re looking for a taste of the Caribbean’s vibrant underwater world combined with a relaxing beachside meal, the Puerto Morelos Reef Snorkeling Trip with Beachside Lunch offers a solid, budget-friendly option. This tour, promoted by Extreme Adventure Cancun, is designed for travelers wanting to see the second-largest barrier reef in the world without breaking the bank or spending all day on the water. It’s a straightforward, well-organized outing that balances adventure and leisure—what more could you want?

What we love about this experience are two things: First, the chance to snorkel right off the coast of Puerto Morelos and explore vividly colorful fish and corals. Second, the opportunity to unwind afterward with a delicious beachside lunch in a charming small town. On the flip side, a potential snag is the short duration of snorkeling—just 80 minutes—which might feel rushed for serious underwater enthusiasts.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy light adventure, appreciate authentic local flavor, and prefer a more relaxed day. If you’re traveling with children over 3, or if you’re pregnant, have mobility or heart issues, or are over 65, this activity might not be suitable. But if you’re in Cancun or the Riviera Maya and want a quick, enjoyable escape to the reef, it’s a good choice.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $49 per person, it offers good value for a quick reef experience and lunch.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off from most Cancun & Riviera Maya hotels save hassle.
• Rich Marine Life: Expect to see colorful fish and coral, with the chance to spot sea turtles, barracuda, and lobster based on reviews.
• Limited Snorkeling Time: About 80 minutes in the water, so you’ll need to be comfortable with a moderately active swim.
• Charming Town: Free time in Puerto Morelos offers a glimpse of real local life, away from tourist crowds.
• Extra Fees: An environment fee ($10 cash) and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

How the Tour Begins

Your day kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a big plus for convenience. The tour offers three pickup locations—Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Akumal—making it accessible for many travelers. After a roughly one-hour drive, you arrive in Puerto Morelos, a quiet fishing village about 15 minutes from Cancun, known for its friendly vibe and laid-back atmosphere.

Snorkeling in the Great Mayan Reef

The main event is the 80-minute snorkeling session over the second largest barrier reef in the world. The reef is just offshore, making it easy to access and leaving plenty of time to enjoy the underwater sights. Based on reviews, you’ll find the reef teeming with colorful fish, corals, and occasionally larger creatures like sea turtles or barracuda. Reviewers note that guides are especially knowledgeable and make the experience feel safe and educational.

Snorkel gear is provided, but it’s important to note that cameras and electronic devices are not allowed in the water to protect the reef. If you want photos, consider wearing a sun protection swim shirt and enjoying the underwater scenery with your eyes instead. The reef conditions are generally favorable, but the tour is subject to weather and sea conditions, so it might not run perfectly every day.

Lunch and Free Time

After snorkeling, you’ll head to Boquinete, a top-rated restaurant right on the beach. The included beachside lunch is a highlight for many, offering a chance to relax, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the calming views of the Caribbean. The meal lasts about an hour and is a chance to savor authentic local flavors.

Then, you’re free to explore the town of Puerto Morelos or simply relax on the beach. Many reviews mention how charming and laid-back this spot is—perfect for those wanting a break from the busier Cancun resort scene. The free time is approximately 1.5 hours, providing enough opportunity to stroll the streets or dip your toes in the ocean before heading back.

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Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a one-hour drive back to your hotel, and drop-offs are available at the same three locations. The overall trip lasts around 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves plenty of room for other sightseeing or relaxation later.

The Real Traveler Perspective

Several reviewers comment on the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. Ellen from the UK praised the guides, saying, “Mike and Alex are THE BEST,” and highlighted how safe she felt, even with children aged 11 and 13. She also appreciated the stunning marine life, mentioning she saw sea turtles, sharks, and vibrant fish.

Clara from the US described her experience as “so amazing,” citing the reef’s beauty and the guide’s humor and knowledge as high points. She did note that the snorkeling was “a little rushed,” which is a common sentiment if you’re hoping for a more leisurely underwater experience.

One less favorable review from the US mentioned feeling rushed during snorkeling and being left in town for two hours afterward. While the tour generally adheres to a tight schedule, some travelers might find the free time insufficient or want more control over how long they spend in the water.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a sun hat, towel, and cash for additional drinks or tips.
• Cameras, waterproof cameras, and electronics are not allowed in the water, so plan accordingly.
• Wear a sun protection swim shirt to avoid sunscreen that can harm the reef.
• Know how to swim—this activity isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.
• The tour is subject to weather, so check your cancellation policy if the weather looks poor.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This reef snorkeling trip offers an affordable, well-organized way to see some of the Caribbean’s most colorful marine life and enjoy a relaxing meal by the sea. It’s an ideal choice for families with older children, travelers looking for a short but memorable underwater experience, or those eager to explore Puerto Morelos without committing to a full-day excursion.

If you’re seeking stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a taste of local charm, this tour delivers. However, if you’re a serious snorkeler craving longer underwater time or more unstructured exploration, you might prefer a more extended or flexible option.

Overall, it’s a solid, straightforward introduction to the reef that balances adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor—a good value for a quick Caribbean getaway.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels are included in the pickup service, making it convenient for travelers staying within those areas.

How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll have approximately 80 minutes in the water, enough for a good glimpse of the reef but not a full day’s worth of underwater exploration.

What’s the cost?
The tour is priced at $49 per person, which includes the snorkeling, transportation, and lunch. Additional costs include a $10 cash reef fee and drinks.

Are children allowed?
Children over 3 years old can participate, but this activity might not be suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or health concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, swim shirt), towel, cash for extras, and leave electronics and cameras at home to protect the reef and follow tour rules.

Can I take photos underwater?
No, cameras or electronic devices are not allowed in the water to prevent damage and reef deterioration. Consider taking photos from the boat or on land.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to favorable sea conditions. If weather cancels the activity, most providers allow free rescheduling or refunds if canceled in advance.

How is the town of Puerto Morelos?
It’s a small, charming fishing village with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for strolling after the tour. You’ll find local shops, friendly people, and great seafood restaurants like Boquinete.

This snorkeling and lunch tour in Puerto Morelos offers a great blend of marine adventure and authentic local charm. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a manageable, affordable, and scenic Caribbean experience that highlights the natural beauty of the reef and the warmth of small-town Mexico.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby