Travel Guide of Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya for: Now Jade Riviera Cancun
Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Yucatan Peninsula
Puerto Morelos Summary
Pros
- Located between Playa del Carmen and Cancun (with easy access to Cozumel ferries)
- Visitors can swim and snorkel in giant, cool freshwater pools called cenotes
- Plenty of restaurants and a decent nightlife (with less of a "Spring Break" vibe)
- All beaches are public
- Great snorkeling in the area's shallow reefs
- English is spoken almost everywhere you go
- Generally safe
Cons
- Slightly farther from the airport
- Sleepier than downtown Cancun and Playa del Carmen (a pro for many)
- Expensive taxis -- foreign tourists are charged double, and guests of expensive hotels pay more
- Hurricane season (from August through November)
What It's Like
Puerto Morelos is a former fishing village located halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. The area serves as a perfect compromise for anyone looking for Cancun's stunning beaches sans the hordes of tourists. The impressive reefs just offshore attract a fair share of divers, and many come to take a dip in the inland cenotes (massive sinkholes filled with crystal-clear groundwater). The laid-back vibe of the area makes it great for spending a day lounging or exploring and unwinding with dinner at a beachfront restaurant, all without the fear of having to deal with packs of drunk spring breakers.
Where to Stay
Staying in Puerto Morelos means staying on the water: you'll want to take advantage of the beach as much as possible. The two main drags of shops and restaurants are easily accessible from there and can be navigated by foot.
