DK Travel : Cancún and the Yucatán : Outdoor

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Cenote Dzitnup

The most famous of the swimmable cenotes, a vast limestone cathedral. Via a narrow tunnel you enter a truly awe-inspiring chamber with, at the bottom, a pool of perfect turquoise water. Tour groups tend to visit about 11am–noon, but at other times it’s rarely crowded.
Cenote Kantun-Chi

There are several visitable cenotes on the landward side of the highway near Xpu-Ha. A broad, shady pool dappled by brilliant sunlight, Kantun-Chi is near the road but still deliciously refreshing for swimming. Neighboring cenotes, Cristalino and Cenote Azul, are also beautiful.
Cenote Samula

Another spectacular cavern-pool next to Cenote Dzitnup. Past a narrow entrance there’s a huge pool of cool, clear water, and in the middle of the cave the roots of a giant ceiba tree – associated with mystical powers by the Maya – stretch straight down from the surface to reach the water far below.
Cenote Xlacah, Dzibilchaltún

The wide, round cenote that provided water for the ancient city of Dzibilchaltún is still a popular swimming hole today. It gets busy on Sundays but is a relaxing place for a dip at other times of the week (see Dzibilchaltún).
Chen Río, Cozumel

The best beach on Cozumel’s rugged eastern shore, with a sheltered cove for lazy swimming, while further along the sands you could even surf. There’s also a beach restaurant worth a special visit.
Chunzubul, Playa del Carmen

Keep walking along the beach north from Playa to find endless space, the best snorkeling and diving spots, and nudist beaches. Avoid leaving bags unattended in the really quiet spots (see Security and Health Tips).
Cobá

This huge Mayan city – once home to around 50,000 people – was the great rival of Chichén Itzá. It’s a very different place to visit from Chichén Itzá or Uxmal – it’s unusually spread out around several large lakes, and to find its massive buildings you follow fascinating walks through thick forest full of birds and plants. Among them is the Yucatán’s tallest pyramid.
Cozumel

The island’s fan base is split into three: divers, cruise passengers, and families. The finest diving locations are in the distant reefs, but the tranquil beaches along Cozumel’s west coast are wonderful for a first experience of snorkeling.San Miguel town has a touristy but easygoing feel.
Cozumel

A base for many expert deep-sea captains who also offer trips to the inshore flats.
Cozumel

Gleaming jewelry stores along the waterfront in San Miguel combine with an easygoing, small-town charm that has long made this island a favorite with families. It’s a great place to settle into at a leisurely pace, maybe going diving one day, then exploring a little the next: around the island are Mayan ruins, windblown cliffs, a fascinating natural wildlife park at Punta Sur, and lovely beaches and snorkeling spots on the west coast.

Snorkeling