For those who do not wish to scuba dive, there are plenty of snorkeling options for them to be able to enjoy the waters off of Isla Mujeres. Some of the scuba diving excursions can also accommodate snorkelers making it convenient for groups that are divided on their activities.
Snorkeling around Isla Mujeres provides a great way to view the second longest reef in the world and will give you a chance to see many different types of fish and aquatic life.
Underwater Museum
One of the most popular snorkeling sites is the Underwater Museum. This excursion can be done alongside those who choose to scuba dive the site. Although the Underwater Museum reaches depths of up to 30 ft, it is still possible for snorkelers to still enjoy the beauty of this site. It is best to snorkel here on days where the water is less choppy as visibility will be better, and so will the swimming experience. Read more about the Underwater Museum (MUSA)
Islay Contoy
Isla Contoy is a nature preserve island that offers not only great snorkeling at its shores but also wonderful bird watching on the island. The journey to the island of Isla Contoy normally involves a stop to snorkel (Ixlache Reef) before reaching the island itself. Once on the island you are free to do as you choose, whether it be to snorkel the shores, lay on the beach or explore the island. The island of Isla Contoy is home to many different unique species of birds (over 150), as well on the island you will find a small museum. The island of Isla Contoy has been protected by the Mexican Government since 1961 and will be saved from any commercial development, allowing you to enjoy its pristine beaches for years to come. The island of Isla Contoy is located approximately 30 km from Isla Mujeres. The Isla Contoy excursion is a full day event. There is a daily limit of 200 visitors that can come to the island ensuring that the white sandy beaches remain uncrowded. Also located on the island is a souvenir shop.
Garrafon Natural Reef Park, Isla Mujeres
Garrafon Natural Reef Park is located on the south point of Isla Mujeres. This park offers more of a touristy environment and boats in many visitors from Cancun daily. The cost is quite high at 80$ per person for a day entrance to the park. The price of entrance at Garrafon Natural Reef Park includes as well lockers, hammocks and kayaks. The reef here is truly beautiful and there are extra inclusions that can be added to your park visit. For those who seek thrills, there is a zip line that spans over the blue waters! Here at IslaMujeresScubaDiving we believe in sustainable eco-tourism and strongly urge against any “Dolphin Encounters”.
***Dolphins by nature are meant to live in pods in the wild, not confined to cages and forced to perform daily acts of service. As well, dolphins in the wild are known to swim hundreds of miles in a day, making their small tanks and water barriers hardly a suitable living environment. The best way to stop this activity is to not join in, instead support initiatives that wish to sustain dolphins in their natural habitats, not in zoos and tanks. The Mexican government has put a ban on the future captures of anymore of these creatures, and with support will hopefully take steps towards banning the practice of any dolphin encounter programs.
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