Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

Overview

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, also known as the Great Maya Reef, is the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Located off the coast of Playa del Carmen, it offers incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities with vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.

It is a critical habitat for numerous marine species and a popular destination for eco-tourism and water sports.

Marine Park Diving Site

Location

Address

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Neighborhood: Downtown

Coordinates

20.631300, -87.077200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$0 (access via tours)

Children

$0 (access via tours)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and best visibility underwater

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and pleasant

• calm seas
• clear visibility

summer

hot and humid

• warm water

autumn

cooler and less humid

• cooler water
• less crowded

winter

cooler temperatures

• calm seas
• clear visibility

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead for guided tours
Bring ID
Check weather and sea conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID swimwear towels tickets

seasonal

wetsuit rain jacket

not allowed

non-reef-safe sunscreen harmful marine equipment

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate swimming ability

• strong currents
• marine life

Medical facilities: first aid available at tour departure points

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Mexican Pesos (MXN)

Typical Costs

entry $0 (access via tours)

tour cost $50-$150

equipment rental $10-$50

food $10-$20

Dress Code

swimwear, comfortable and quick-dry clothing, water shoes, inappropriate or offensive clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for guided tours
• official website or trusted local tour operators
• 24-48 hours
• available for popular tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Mesoamerican Reef Explorer

Size: 80 MB

Features: Interactive map, Tour booking, Marine life guide

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Tour departure points, Nearby cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Cancún International Airport (CUN)

Distance: 60 km

Travel Time: 1 hour

taxi

$80 1 hour

shuttle

$25 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

walking

$0 10 min

bicycle

$5 (rental) 8 min

taxi

$10 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Pride in their natural heritage and marine biodiversity

Historical Significance: Important for local fishing and cultural traditions

Insider Tips

Best spots are often shared by local guides
Early morning tours offer the best visibility

Local Recommendations

• Try local seafood at nearby restaurants
• Ask for guide Carlos for the best experience

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boletos

Guide Languages: Spanish, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Coral formations

Best Time: Mid-morning

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Vibrant coral scenes

#reef #diving

Marine life encounters

Best Time: Early afternoon

Tips: Natural light

Result: Stunning marine life photos

#marinelife #snorkeling

Photography Rules

allowed areas designated snorkeling and diving areas

prohibited areas protected or restricted zones

flash photography not allowed with flash that might disturb marine life

commercial photography permit needed for professional use

drone policy prohibited over protected areas

tripod policy not recommended due to water conditions

selfie sticks allowed but used responsibly

Nearby Attractions

Xcaret Park

Distance: 10 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Amusement Park

Cenote Azul

Distance: 15 km