Overview
Palancar Reef is a renowned diving and snorkeling site located off the coast of Cozumel, known for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. It is part of the Mesamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
Palancar Reef is significant for its biodiversity and as a popular destination for underwater exploration.
Location
Address
Cozumel, Quintana Roo
Neighborhood: Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park
Coordinates
20.509900, -86.942400
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
better visibility and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm
- • clear waters
- • rich marine life
summer
hot
- • warm waters
autumn
cool
- • calm seas
winter
pleasant
- • clear waters
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book a guided tour
- Bring ID
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • follow dive guidelines
Medical facilities: first aid available on tours
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
swimwear, comfortable swimwear and rash guard, water shoes or fins, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2 weeks
- • official tour operators
- • 48 hours
- • available with tour packages
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Cozumel Dive Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Dive sites, Tour bookings
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Tour boats, Visitor center
Charging Stations: Tour boats
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Cozumel International Airport (CZM)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique marine biodiversity
Historical Significance: Important for local fishing and tourism
Insider Tips
- Best spots at less crowded sites
- Local seafood nearby
Local Recommendations
- • Try local seafood
- • Ask for guide Carlos
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Shallow coral gardens
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Underwater shots
Result: Vibrant coral and marine life
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
Distance: 5km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Beach Park
San Gervasio Ruins
Distance: 10km
Walking: 2 hours
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a guided tour"
- "Visit early"
- "Great marine life"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (18)
El Cielo Cozumel Snorkel Share Boat + Reefs + Food Drinks + Beach
Shared Sky Snorkeling in Cozumel
Cozumel: Snorkeling to El Cielo & Cielito with drinks & Snack
Cozumel: Snorkel at El Cielo, Colombia Reef & Palancar Reef
Cozumel 3 Reefs Snorkel
Cozumel Catamaran Snorkeling Tour & lunch®
Discover Cozumel's Reef: Glass-bottom Boat Snorkeling Adventure
Full day tour to El Cielo in Cozumel Snorkeling and Lunch
Snorkel and swim in Cozumel el Cielo Reef, Palancar and Colombia
Cozumel Catamaran Experience with Snorkeling & Beach Club
Cozumel: Private Tour to El Cielo and Palancar with lunch
Cozumel Reef Snorkeling Tour
Discover starfish, swim and snorkel at El Cielo Cozumel Reef
Day Pass To Cozumel Snorkeling By Boat
Full Day Guided Experience to El Cielo at Cozumel
Cozumel El Cielo Sandbar and Reef Snorkeling Private Adventure
Private Sky Snorkeling Tour
Snorkeling Tour in COZUMEL QROO
Quick Info
Available Tours
61
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000