Puerto Morelos Day Trips:
5 Uncrowded Gems
You Need to See

Even in our beautiful corner of the Riviera Maya, sometimes the most popular spots get a little too busy.

 

Here are some truly special spots that are perfect for a day trip from Puerto Morelos. They offer a different kind of adventure, far from the usual tourist rush.

 

Isla Contoy: Nature's Secret Island

 

Imagine an island where only 200 people can visit each day. That's Isla Contoy, a protected nature reserve north of Isla Mujeres. It's a pristine paradise with white sand beaches and thick jungle.

 

This island is a critical nesting spot for sea turtles. It's also home to over 150 kinds of tropical birds. There are no hotels, shops, or big beach clubs here.

 

You arrive on a small, licensed eco-tour boat. You can snorkel on the protected reef and see the Mexican Caribbean just as it was long ago. It's a bit of a trip from Puerto Morelos, usually involving a drive to Puerto Juarez, but it's worth it.

 

Ek Balam: Climb a Mayan Pyramid

 

Most people go to Chichén Itzá, but you can't climb its famous pyramid anymore. About 2 to 2.5 hours drive from Puerto Morelos, near Valladolid, is Ek Balam. This ancient Mayan city is beautifully preserved.

 

The best part? You can still climb the huge 100-foot Acropolis pyramid. When you reach the top, you get an amazing view of the endless green jungle.

 

The carvings on the temple walls are some of the best in the Mayan world. After your climb, you can cool off in Cenote X'Canche, right there at the site.

 

Muyil Ruins and the Sian Ka'an Canal Float

 

Just south of Tulum, about 1.5 hours from Puerto Morelos, are the Muyil ruins. These ancient Mayan trading post ruins are quiet and shaded in the jungle. But the real adventure starts after you explore them.

 

You can take a small boat across two beautiful turquoise lagoons. The boat will drop you off at an ancient Maya trade canal, carved and adapted through the mangroves over a thousand years ago

 

You put on a life vest and float gently down the crystal-clear water. The current carries you through a peaceful mangrove forest. It's like a natural, silent lazy river, a truly magical and crowd-free experience.

 

Kaan Luum Lagoon: A Local Favorite

 

South of Tulum, you'll find Kaan Luum Lagoon. It's a stunning, vibrant lagoon with milky, jade-green water.

 

In the center, there's a deep cenote that makes the water a dramatic dark blue. A long wooden pier lets you walk out, and there are hammocks for relaxing.

 

This lagoon is a treasured local spot. There are still no hotels or giant clubs here, just a simple entrance and basic services, though it can get busy around mid‑day in high season.

 

For a small fee, you can swim in water that feels like a natural spa. It's a perfect, calm choice instead of busy beach clubs.

 

Cenotes Sac Actún: Journey into an Underground River

 

While other cenotes get crowded, Cenotes Sac Actún offers a different kind of adventure. It's part of the world's longest underwater cave system.

 

About 1.5 hours from Puerto Morelos, near Tulum, you can snorkel through this amazing underground world.

 

A guide will lead you with a flashlight through clear, cool water. You'll float between huge, ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

 

It's not just a swimming hole, it's like exploring a mystical underground museum. It’s an experience you won't soon forget.

 

These special places show that you can still find true magic in the Yucatan. These day trips offer a real taste of adventure and natural beauty.