Tulum is a small town in Quintana Roo, Mexico. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known for its beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, and, of course, its incredible cenotes. Cenotes, or natural swimming holes, are one of the main attractions in the Yucatan Peninsula. These pools form as limestone bedrock collapses, exposing the underground river system below and creating crystal-clear freshwater pools.
In this article, we’ll explore the 13 best cenotes near Tulum where you can swim, snorkel, and scuba dive.
Gran Cenote: The Best Option for Snorkeling
Gran Cenote is located just a few kilometers from the Tulum ruins, on the road to Coba. It is one of the most popular cenotes in the area. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There is a large platform in the middle of the cenote where you can jump in from different heights. It’s a great place to explore, with many rock formations and underwater caves to discover.
One of the best things about Gran Cenote is that it offers shallow water areas for those who are not strong swimmers. And deeper areas for those who want to explore the underwater world. Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent at the entrance. This makes it easy for visitors to enjoy the cenote safely.
If you want to explore the cave system, you’ll need to have a scuba diving certification. But even without it, Gran Cenote is worth visiting.
Cenote Dos Ojos: The Best Place for Scuba Diving
Cenote Dos Ojos is located about 30 minutes north of Tulum. One of the most famous cenotes in the area, and it’s also one of the best places for scuba diving. In Spanish, “Dos Ojos” means “two eyes,” referring to the two circular sinkholes connected by a cave system. The cenote is part of the Sac Actun system, the longest underwater cave system in the world. Which makes it a perfect spot for advanced divers.
If you don’t have a scuba diving certification, you can still enjoy the crystal clear waters of Cenote Dos Ojos by snorkeling or swimming. The water is incredibly clear and you can see all the way to the bottom. Where you’ll spot small fish, turtles, and even manta rays.
Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent at the entrance. But if you’re planning to scuba dive, it’s best to book a tour with a certified guide.
Cenote Calavera: The Best Place for Cliff Jumping
Cenote Calavera, also known as the “Temple of Doom”, is one of the most unique cenotes near Tulum. The cenote’s cave system connects three circular holes in the ground. The largest hole is about 10 meters deep. It has a small opening, which makes it a perfect spot for cliff jumping. The water is not as crystal clear as in other cenotes, but it’s still a refreshing swim on a hot day.
Cenote Calavera is located just off the main road, about 10 minutes from Tulum. There is a small entrance fee, and snorkel gear and life jackets are available for rent. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for some adventure and a little bit of adrenaline.
Cenote Azul: The Best Place for Families
Cenote Azul is located just a few kilometers from Tulum on the road to Playa del Carmen. It is a beautiful cenote that is perfect for families with children. The water is shallow, and there are many wooden platforms to sit and relax or jump into the water. Trees surround the cenote, offering some shade on sunny days. Additionally, visitors can purchase refreshments at a small snack bar.
Cenote Azul is also a great place for snorkeling, as there are many fish and other marine life to observe. Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent at the entrance. There is also an entrance fee to access the cenote.
Cenote Carwash: The Best Choice for Easy Access
Cenote Carwash is located just off the main road between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Is one of the easiest cenotes to access. It got its name because it used to be a spot where locals would wash their cars. The cenote has since been cleaned up and transformed into a beautiful swimming hole, with crystal clear waters and a small beach area.
Cenote Carwash is a great place to visit if you’re short on time or don’t want to venture too far from the main road. The entrance fee is relatively low, and there are snorkel gear and life jackets available for rent. It’s also a popular spot for scuba diving, as there are many underwater caves and rock formations to explore.
Cenote Sac Actun: The Best Place for a Boat Tour
Cenote Sac Actun is part of the Sac Actun system. It’s one of the most beautiful cenotes near Tulum. The cenote is located about 30 minutes north of Tulum, and it’s only accessible by boat tour.
The boat tour takes you through the underground river system, where you can see rock formations, tree roots, and even some small crocodiles. The water is incredibly clear, and you can see all the way to the bottom. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience and one that shouldn’t be missed.
Cenote Escondido: The Best Place for a Private Tour
Cenote Escondido, located about 20 minutes from Tulum, is a beautiful cenote that is still relatively unknown to tourists. The cenote is part of private property, and access is only allowed with a guide. This means that you’ll have the cenote all to yourself, and you can explore it at your own pace.
Cenote Escondido is a stunning cenote, with crystal clear waters, rock formations, and a small beach area. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing in nature. The entrance fee is a bit higher than in other cenotes, but it’s worth it for the privacy and exclusivity of the experience.
Cenote Zacil: The Best Cenote for Rock Formations
Cenote Zacil, located about 10 minutes from Tulum, is a beautiful cenote that is known for its unique rock formations. The cenote is relatively small, but it’s incredibly picturesque, with turquoise waters and towering rock walls. It’s a popular spot for photography, and it’s easy to see why.
Cenote Zacil is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing swim or want to explore underwater caves. Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent at the entrance. There is a small restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.
Cenote Jardin del Eden: The Best Open-Air Cenote
Cenote Jardin del Eden, also known as Cenote Ponderosa, is a beautiful open-air cenote located about 20 minutes from Tulum. The cenote is surrounded by lush jungle foliage, and there are several wooden platforms. The water is crystal clear, and there are many fish and other marine life to observe.
Cenote Jardin del Eden is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing swim. There are also some underwater caves and tunnels to explore if you’re feeling adventurous. Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent, and there is a small snack bar where you can grab a drink or a snack.
Cenote El Pit: The Best Cenote for Scuba Diving
Cenote El Pit is a beautiful cenote located about 30 minutes from Tulum. It’s one of the best places in the area for scuba diving. The cenote is deep, with crystal clear waters that allow for excellent visibility. There are many underwater rock formations and caves to explore. You might even spot some manta rays or other marine life.
Cenote El Pit is not recommended for beginners, as the depth and current can be challenging. However, for experienced divers, it’s an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Cenote Suytun: The Best Cenote for Tree Roots
Located approximately 20 minutes from Valladolid and an hour from Tulum, Cenote Suytun is renowned for the unique tree roots hanging from the cenote’s ceiling, making it a beautiful site to visit. The cenote is partially open-air, which allows for natural light to filter in and illuminate the water.
There is a wooden platform in the center of the cenote, which is perfect for taking photos or just enjoying the view. Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent. There is also a small restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.
Cenote Cristalino: The Best Cenote for a Relaxing Swim
Cenote Cristalino, located about 30 minutes from Tulum, is a beautiful cenote that is perfect for a relaxing swim. The water is crystal clear, and there are several wooden platforms where you can sit and enjoy the view. The cenote is surrounded by lush jungle foliage, which provides some shade on sunny days.
Cenote Cristalino is a popular spot for snorkeling, as there are many fish and other marine life to observe. Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent, and there is a small snack bar where you can grab a drink or a snack.
Cenote Manati: The Best Cenote for Families with Children
Cenote Manati, located about 30 minutes from Tulum, is a great place to visit if you’re traveling with children. The cenote is relatively shallow, and there are several wooden platforms where kids can play and splash around. There are also many fish and other marine life to observe, which makes it a great spot for snorkeling.
Cenote Manati is a peaceful and beautiful cenote, with crystal clear waters and lush jungle foliage. Life jackets and snorkel gear are available for rent, and there is a small restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.
Best Time to Visit the Cenotes near Tulum
The cenotes near Tulum are open all year round. But the best time to visit them is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant and there is less chance of rain. It is ideal for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the cenotes.
High Season vs Low Season
The high season for tourism in Tulum is from December to March. So it is recommended to visit the cenotes during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. It is also best to avoid weekends and holidays, as these are the busiest times.
During the low season, from May to October, the weather is hot and humid. There is a higher chance of rain. However, this is also a great time to visit the cenotes, as there are fewer tourists. It is important to note that some cenotes may be closed during the rainy season due to high water levels and strong currents.
Best Time of Day to Visit
The best time of day to visit the cenotes near Tulum is early morning or late afternoon. This is when the sunlight is not too harsh and the water is at its clearest. It is also the best time to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
If you plan on visiting during midday, it’s advisable to bring a hat, sunscreen, and wear a life jacket. The sun can be intense, and the water can be deep. Additionally, some cenotes have limited shaded areas, so it is important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the sun.
Don’t miss out on the Natural Wonder of the Cenotes
Don’t miss out on the natural wonder of the cenotes near Tulum during your trip to the Yucatan Peninsula. Whether you are a scuba diver, snorkeler, or just looking for a refreshing swim, the cenotes offer something for everyone. With their crystal clear waters, stunning rock formations, and diverse marine life, they truly are a must-visit destination. By considering the best time to visit, you can ensure a more enjoyable and memorable experience.
