Cozumel is an incredible destination for snorkelers. It is sunny on Cozumel an average of 350 days a year. The water is crystal-clear, with 150- 250 feet of underwater visibility, and a warm 80 degrees or more. The 200- 500 yards of coral reefs rounds out this fabulous experience.
Popular with tourists, the island of Cozumel is found in the Caribbean Sea, just off the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and opposite to Playa del Carmen in Mexico. This flat mass of land is built on porous volcanic rock and is home to a number of endemic species such as the splendid toadfish.
There are few words to describe the Cozumel snorkeling experience. Limestone shores are surrounded by temperate, clear waters that range in color from striking turquoise to deep indigo. The coasts of Cozumel are dotted with thrilling snorkeling spots.
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* Chankaanab is ideal for beginners seeking the ideal snorkeling destination in Cozumel. Exploring the wonderful coral formations is a must, and you must take a stroll through the one-of-a-kind botanical gardens, witness the dolphin show and visit the museum.
* Santa Rosa is the best choice for intermediate snorkelers. You’ll find a spectacular wall dive that is the hands-down tourist favorite on the island and, just a few hundred meters away, a wonderful snorkeling spot with a tremendous variety of marine life. Punta Tunich, San Francisco, Tormentos and Paso del Cedral are other popular spots with dense fish populations and richly colored reefs, although these areas can be challenging to reach.
* Palancar is Cozumel’s most famous place for snorkeling. World-class beauty is created with mountainous and stunning coral formations. Marine life here is nothing short of spectacular. There are four entrances to the reef system: the Gardens, the Caves, the Horseshoe and the Deep Zone.
Here are some tips to make the most of your Cozumel snorkeling vacation:
1. Clean your mask by using your fingers to spread a little saliva on the glass. This is to prevent fogging in the mask.
2. Be sure to tie your hair back and keep any strands from breaking the mask’s seal. If hair comes between the mask and your skin, the seal will break and the mask will leak.
3. When water enters the breathing tube, blow sharply into the tube to expel the water.
4. If water gets inside your mask, breathe in through the snorkel and out through your nose while pressing the top of the mask against your forehead.
5. Never venture into the open seas alone. Always bring someone with you. This is to avoid falling victim to dangerous accidents such as cramps or equipment malfunction.
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6. Sandy beaches are great for tanning, but not for snorkeling. You’ll see much more marine life if you stay close to rocks and coral.
Snorkeling is one of life’s greatest adventures, and few places on earth provide the same underwater beauty as Cozumel.
Tagged with: Cozumel • snorkeling
Filed under: Travel -- Caribbean