We are staying in Cancun for the holiday weekend. We really love snorkeling, and wondered what the best spots were nearby. I keep hearing that Akumal has the best snorkeling off the beach in that area, but is it worth the daytrip to get there? If so, how should I do that? Any companies that you would recommend for an off-shore snorkel trip near Cancun?

We would rent a small fishing boat to take us out for snorkeling around Isla Mujeres. I would look into that since getting to Cozumel (which really has the most spectacular snorkeling IMO) would be a long day trip for a weekend away. Pick up the Cancun tips book when you land at the airport. It may offer other suggestions.

Another pretty good place that is closer to Cancun is Puerto Morelos. It's a very long swim if you try to swim to the reef, but it's easy to get a boat out there. I do love Akumal, but it is quite a trip from Cancun if you've only got a weekend trip.

I forgot about Puerto Morelos and I stayed a week in that town. If Palapa Pizza is still there, go for it. Decent pizza for Mexico.

We had so much fun snorkeling at Xel-ha ecological park. I've heard that Cozumel is awesome for snorkeling also.

jaclynpoulson, I saw you commented favorably on Akumal. What are your thoughts on a Pre-Christmas vacation there with a 12 and 9 year old? We enjoy snorkeling, relaxing and a bit of sightseeing. When I did a Fodor search, one poster commented on a "nightmare trip" there but no details. Any advice you could offer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

I'm surprised anyone would have a nightmare trip in Akumal. It's a very laid back low key place with great snorkeling.

You might just want to stay in Akumal and take in the snorkeling at Turtle Bay & Yal-ku. As someone else mentioned, Xel Ha is a great snorkeling park; wherever you're staying might be able to arrange transportation there.

To the other posters question about Akumal, I can't imagine it being a nightmare...what a strange comment.