Is Puerto Morelos Worth Visiting in 2023?

Are you wondering if Puerto Morelos is worth visiting?

If so, you’re at the right place! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether Puerto Morelos is the ideal Mexican destination for your next vacation.

From top beautiful places, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around, let’s dive in and discover whether you should add Puerto Morelos to your next travel plans in Mexico.

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Is Puerto Morelos Worth Visiting?

Puerto Morelos is definitely worth visiting as it is one of the top Mexican beach towns to enjoy luxury without breaking the bank.

Located on the stunning Caribbean coastline, just about half an hour’s drive south of Cancun, Puerto Morelos offers beautiful white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush mangroves, as well as plenty of activities and entertainment for all ages.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for an action-packed adventure, you can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding, or jet skiing. If you’re looking for something more cultural, there are fascinating Mayan ruins as well as a wide range of historical sites and museums to explore. Puerto Morelos is also home to some excellent restaurants and lively bars, so you’ll be sure to find something to suit your tastes.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure-filled family vacation, or simply a place to relax and unwind, Puerto Morelos provides all of this and more at an affordable price.

Because of its proximity to Cancun and the considerably cheaper price tag, Puerto Morelos is definitely worth adding to your travel plans. Read on for more tips on planning your trip to enjoy the best experiences while saving money!

15 Best Things to do in Puerto Morelos

When it comes to what to do in Puerto Morelos, there are so many options. From scuba diving and snorkeling to kayaking and sailing, you will find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Plus, the nearby cities of Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Akumal, and Tulum offer even more opportunities for exploration and discovery.

1. Go snorkeling off the Puerto Morelos coastline

The Puerto Morelos coastline is renowned for its clear turquoise waters and abundance of marine life. There are several snorkeling spots along the coast, and if you’re lucky you may even find some fish and stingrays in the shallow waters of your resort beach. I did see some small fish off the beach at the Fives Oceanfront in Puerto Morelos, so if you book a stay there, don’t forget to try your luck!

However, if you’re looking for an underwater paradise, Puerto Morelos National Reef Park is the place to go! Explore the vibrant coral reefs, home to an array of tropical fish, and discover a world of natural beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, you will be awe-struck by the majestic beauty of the Mesoamerican Reef there, also known as the world’s second-largest barrier reef system!

🤿Book your spot on a small-group snorkeling tour to Puerto Morelos National Reef Park – the best place to discover the colorful underwater world!

2. Visit the Puerto Morelos Town Square

Puerto Morelos Town Square is a great place to visit for a taste of traditional Mexican culture and bohemian atmosphere. Located in the heart of Puerto Morelos, this vibrant town square is full of life, color, and culture. The architecture is stunning and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

It’s a great place to wander around, take in the sights and sounds, and sample some of the amazing local cuisines. Additionally, the square is home to a flea market and countless art galleries, shops, and cafes, giving you plenty of options to explore.

As you wander around, you won’t want to miss the iconic El Faro Inclinado. Located right off the main beach at Ventana al Mar, this “leaning lighthouse” is a must-see sight. As a popular tourist attraction, it’s always bustling with people taking photos and admiring the unique tilting structure.

3. Board a catamaran cruise to the Secret Sandbar

A catamaran tour is my favorite way to explore the waters, and I love taking it in Mexico compared to other places because the catamarans here offer much better amenities and services for a significantly cheaper price!

⛵ Book your spot on the Puerto Morelos Catamaran Secret Sandbar Sail with Lunch and Drinks now!

It’s a great way to discover the beauty of the Caribbean Sea as you board a catamaran and sail through the crystal-clear waters of the Puerto Morelos lagoon. Relax and take in breathtaking views of the pristine coastline while sipping on a refreshing drink. When you arrive at the Secret Sandbar, take a dip in the warm tropical waters or try stand-up paddle boarding. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch and lounge about in the shade before your return.

4. Visit the Crococun Zoo

For a family-friendly activity, make a stop at Croco Cun Zoo! You will get to see some of Mexico’s wildest animals and cutest creatures. Take some unique pictures of Mexico’s famously hairless dogs or spider monkeys swinging from tree to tree!

5. Spend some time relaxing on Puerto Morelos beaches

With its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Puerto Morelos is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Spend some time soaking up the sun, take a dip in the warm waters, or take a stroll along the beach. You will have a great time enjoying the sound of the waves and the stunning sunsets.

6. Enjoy local cuisines at Puerto Morelos restaurants

Being a bustling fishing village, Puerto Morelos offers a variety of restaurants with plenty of seafood dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Besides the classic local dishes like tacos, ceviche, or seafood paella, I’d recommend you order the catch of the day for some fresh delicious dish!

7. Go Scuba Diving in Coral Reef

Puerto Morelos was one of my first dives and I loved it! Even if you’re not a certified diver, you can explore the colorful coral reefs, full of vibrant fish and other aquatic life. Don’t forget to bring your underwater camera to capture the stunning beauty of the underwater world.

🐠 Book Discover Scuba Diving at Coral Reef now! It’s perfect for non-certified divers and those who have never dived before!

Scam Alert: Scuba Diving is generally pricy around the world because of expensive equipment and safety concerns in open water. A Discover Scuba Diving excursion with scenic dive for beginners typically costs $130-$200/person as it also includes admission to the site and the fees to enter protected waters. Watch out for tours that claim to be much cheaper as they may just be a pool dive!

8. Explore the eco-park Xcaret

If you’re looking for a fun and unique Mexican experience, Xcaret Park should be on your list! This amazing park is like a Mexican Disneyland and its wide offerings of attractions and activities make it perfect for all ages.

My favorite thing to do at Xcaret was watching the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular night show. It features more than 300 artists and tells the story of Mexico’s history and legacy. The show is opened with an exciting ancient Mayan live sports game featuring fireball (yes, fireball!) – a truly must-see! Get ready to pick the team you like and cheer them on, it’ll be fun!

🔥 Book Priority Access to Xcaret with Night Show & Transportation now!

9. Take a day trip to the ancient ruins of Tulum

Step back in time to explore the remains of one of the most significant cities of the Mayan civilization at Tulum ruins. It is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the region and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea from atop the hill. I remembered being able to take the stairs to descend to the beach a few years back, but it was closed during my visit in 2022.

The first time I visited Tulum ruins, I didn’t have a tour guide. It was pretty awe-inspiring at first to see such well-preserved ancient structures, temples, and pyramids, but it soon got pretty boring walking around as they all blended in and seemed to be the same.

On my second visit, I took a guided tour and it made a huge difference! Learning about the fascinating history of this once-thriving city and the meanings of each structure made me appreciate the sites much more.

I took the Tulum Xelha tour which was amazing, but if you’re looking for a good deal, I think the 3-in-1 Discovery Combo Tour is worth considering. This tour includes entrance fees to Tulum, a buffet lunch, and door-to-door transport from your hotel. You’ll get to explore the tropical coral reef in the Caribbean Sea, take a dip in a natural cenote, and venture into an underground limestone cave.

⭐ Book 3-in-1 Discovery Combo Tour now to enjoy an unforgettable day in Tulum!

10. Xplor and Xplor Fuego

I had so much fun at Xplor Adventure Park that I’d put it at the top of my list for my next vacation in the Yucatan Peninsula. If you’re also a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, then the all-inclusive Xplor adventure park is the place to be!

The best activities at Xplor are driving ATV through the jungle and ziplining from tower to tower. Not to mention, you can also enjoy swimming and rafting through the stalactite-filled underground rivers – something that is even better than the underground swim at Xcaret!

And if you’re looking to add an extra element of excitement, make sure to check out Xplor Fuego, which is the adventure park lit up with torches at night, where you can zip-line through a gate of fire!

Tip: Don’t forget to bring water shoes and buy the pictures package – it’s definitely worth it! All-you-can-eat food and beverages are included at Xplor, but you’re not allowed to drink alcohol. If you’d like unlimited alcoholic beverages, check out Xcaret and Xel-Ha instead!

11. Take a jungle ATV tour

An ATV tour is a fun and exciting way to explore the lush jungle in Mexico! Though Xplor Adventure Park offers one of the best options for ATV tours, there is a great alternative for those seeking a cheaper price.

The ATV Combo Challenge tour offers a bundle of activities for an unforgettable experience in Puerto Morelos. Start your day off right with a snorkeling adventure, discovering the vibrant reef fish in the area, then refuel at a private beach club. In the afternoon, get your adrenaline pumping by taking an ATV ride through the jungle, cruising through the trees on ziplines, and taking a plunge into a natural cenote!

12. Try spinnaker on a trip to Isla Mujeres

If you’re in for an offshore day trip, consider taking a catamaran sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres and try spinnaker activity.

Even though the open bar was a great way to start the day and the snorkeling was an amazing way to explore the island’s marine life, the highlight of the trip for me was definitely the spinnaker activity. You will need to know how to swim in order to participate, but if you don’t, it’s still really fun watching people do it and cheering them on!

13. Swim with Turtles in Akumal

If you have never gone swimming with sea turtles, don’t miss the chance to do so in Akumal! From May to October, adult sea turtles can be seen nesting on the beaches, while baby turtles are hatching and making their way into the sea from July to mid-December. If you want to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures, swim with them in Turtle Bay! Here, you can swim with the turtles and even combine it with a day trip to the Tulum ruins.

14. Visit the archaeological park of Xel-Ha for an underwater adventure

Xel-Ha is an incredible natural all-inclusive aquatic archeological and ecological theme park. Not only do they offer a wide array of delicious food and drinks (including alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages) that are included with admission, but they also have stunning views from their scenic tower.

My favorite activities at Xel-Ha were diving in the water from the Stone of Value and ziplining/hammock splash, but there were so much more. You can learn more about this water theme park with my full Xel-Ha review here.

15. Take a Day Trip to the awe-inspiring Chichen Itza

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, Chichen Itza is an archaeological masterpiece and one of the most iconic monuments of ancient Mesoamerica. It provides a fascinating insight into the architectural, political, and spiritual history of the region.

From the towering pyramid of Kukulcan to the ball courts and the sacred cenotes, prepare to be mesmerized by the grandeur and complexity of this incredible site. Whether you choose to explore the majestic ruins on your own or take a guided tour, a visit to Chichen Itza is a must!

I had a wonderful experience with the guided Xichen Tour to Chichen Itza, but if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, this Chichen Itza Early Access Tour also offers a great deal!

Tip: If you’re looking to buy artisan goods or souvenirs at Chichen Itza, don’t accept the initial price you’re offered. Negotiate and haggle a bit and you will be able to save a lot of money!

Best Time to Visit Puerto Morelos

There is not really a bad time to visit Puerto Morelos, Cancun, or the surrounding areas in Quintana Roo as the weather is relatively warm year-round.

Puerto Morelos Weather

From December to April, Puerto Morelos experiences its driest and sunniest months with low humidity and temperatures around the low 80s. As anyone who has ever been to the Caribbean coast during the winter months can attest, it’s a great place to escape the cold!

Visiting Puerto Morelos during the dry season is the perfect time to enjoy great weather with beautiful sunshine, comfortable temperatures, and low cloud coverage. Although prices for flights and hotels may be higher, I thought that the extra expense was well worth it for the stunning weather and perfect ocean temperature.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly adventure, you can find great deals on flights, accommodations, and activities during the wet season, which runs from June to early November, During this time, you will find that the days are mostly cloudy even when the forecast shows rainy weather – which makes it not so bad after all.

Although there is a risk of hurricanes during the wet season, storms are relatively rare in Cancun. In fact, only two hurricanes have made landfall in the area in the past 30 years.

How Many Days in Puerto Morelos Is Enough?

Puerto Morelos is an ideal destination for either a long or a short getaway, so the answer really depends on what you want to do and how much you want to explore. If you simply want to soak up the sun and relaxation, two or three days is probably enough. But if you’re looking for adventure, you could easily spend a week in Puerto Morelos and never get bored.

Where to Stay: Best Puerto Morelos Resorts

When it comes to where to stay in Puerto Morelos, there are many accommodation options available, but I find the best deals are all-inclusive resorts here. You will be able to experience top luxury amenities and services of very similar quality to properties in Cancun but at a much cheaper price.

I’ve stayed at the below all-inclusive optional beach resorts in Puerto Morelos and I fairly enjoyed both of them. The Fives Oceanfront Puerto Morelos is much newer, but Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa is considerably bigger. Depending on your schedule, you can choose either the all-inclusive package with full room and board or the European plan with just room and breakfast.

The Fives Oceanfront Puerto Morelos Review

If you’re in search of a new hotel in Puerto Morelos with beautiful ocean views and an onsite dive center, look no further than the Fives Oceanfront. Located just a 20-minute drive from Cancun International Airport, the resort offers a very convenient getaway.

Besides the stunning ocean views, The Fives Oceanfront has an onsite dive center equipped with all the latest gear. Plus, the boat will take you directly from the beach to the best diving spots – so getting your open-water diving certification is very easy – I did it in just two days there!

➡️Read More Reviews on The Fives Oceanfront

✔️Book The Fives Oceanfront now!

Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun/Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa Review

Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa is an oasis of tranquility located on a picturesque stretch of white sand beach in Puerto Morelos. You can pay a small fee to upgrade to the Preferred Club and enjoy personalized check-in, a-la-carte breakfast, and a welcome bottle of alcohol. When I saw the long lines waiting to check in, I knew I made the right decision to pay for the Preferred Club!

Tip: There is a French restaurant with a delectable culinary experience but arrive early to avoid the wait. For an equally popular, albeit less impressive, dining option, book a seat at the Hibachi restaurant in advance. And don’t forget to reserve a cabana by the beach one day prior to your visit!

➡️Read More Reviews on Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa

Check Prices for Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa

Puerto Morelos FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Puerto Morelos.

Conclusion: Is Puerto Morelos Worth Visiting?

Located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen in Riviera Maya, Puerto Morelos is blessed with a wide variety of attractions, from its beautiful beaches to its vibrant local culture.

This is a great destination for travelers who want to experience a laid-back, beachfront atmosphere and enjoy a variety of activities. There is a wide range of sightseeing opportunities, from exploring the nearby Mayan ruins to relaxing on the beach and participating in water sports. There is also plenty of delicious local cuisine, as well as seafood and fish dishes, to sample while you are there.

All in all, Puerto Morelos is the perfect destination to visit for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean without breaking the bank. With its proximity to Cancun, you can enjoy all the conveniences of the city without the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist areas!

Travel Resources for Puerto Morelos & Cancun

1. Travel Insurance:
   • No one wants to think about what could go wrong on a vacation, but the truth is that accidents can happen anywhere, at any time. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance, so you can relax and enjoy your trip knowing that you’re covered if something does go wrong. Don’t take the risk when you can be covered for cheap.
   • Safety Wing is a great option for budget-conscious travelers, as policies start at just $40 USD for a whole month! Basic policies cover travel emergencies, medical costs, and medical expenses while you’re in Mexico as well as transportation back to your home country under circumstances.
2. Getting around Cancun
   • Best Car Rental in Cancun: How to Find it & What to Expect!
   • How to Get from Cancun to Tulum, Mexico: Is there Uber/Lyft?
   • How to Get to Cozumel from Cancun and Playa del Carmen
3. Car Rental Scam
   • Don’t fall for car rental scams in Mexico! Make sure you have full coverage when you make the reservation so car rental agencies can’t upsell their insurance.
   • Discover Cars offers the cheapest car rental rates in Mexico and full coverage insurance for as low as $7 per day. 
4. Best Places to Stay in and near Cancun
   • Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Non All-Inclusive vs All-Inclusive Hotels
   • Best Value & Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts in Cancun, Mexico
   • Best Hotels and Resorts to Stay in Cozumel, Mexico
   • Temptation Cancun Resort – Best All-Inclusive Resort for Nightlife
   • Hotel Xcaret Arte Review – Best Overall Value Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resort
   • Hotel Xcaret Mexico Review – Best Overall Value Family All-Inclusive Resort
   • La Casa de la Playa by Xcaret – Best Luxury Boutique Hotel
5. Best Attractions & Activities in Cancun
   • 37 Top Things to Do & Best Places to Visit in Cancun
   • Thrilling Cancun Activities: Spinnaker vs. Parasailing!
   • Xplor vs Xplor Fuego Adventure Cancun Park Review!
   • Xelha Water Park Review, Coupons & Tips for a Perfect Day!
   • What to See & Do in Cozumel on A Day Trip!
   • The Maldives of Mexico: Is Bacalar Lagoon worth visiting?

Bonus: 61+ Best Cancun Quotes for Instagram & Social Media Captions!