cenote tour playa del carmen

13 Best Cenotes near Playa Del Carmen (2024)

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

With its idyllic white sand beaches, sprawling resorts and easy access to incredible Mayan ruins and crystal clear cenotes, Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist towns. From the shallow waters of Cenote Azul, one of Playa del Carmen’s most popular cenotes, to the beautiful Zacil-Ha Cenote in neighboring Tulum, there are some amazing cenotes near Playa Del Carmen just waiting to be explored.

Having visited, and loved, so many amazing cenotes from Playa Del Carmen, we wanted to share to our favorites – this is our guide to the 13 cenotes near Playa Del Carmen!

Table of Contents

What are Cenotes?

A cenote, pronounced seh-NO-tay, are water-filled sinkholes that naturally occur in limestone rock when an underground cave collapses in on itself and exposes the groundwater underneath. There are thousands of cenotes dotted around the Yucatan Peninsula and some of the Playa Del Carmen cenotes are extremely popular with locals and tourists alike.

The water in the cenotes tends to be cool as the water comes from underground so they are great for a refreshing swim to cool off from the hot Mexican sunshine.

In Mayan times a number of the cenotes were used for sacrificial purposes and objects such as gold, pottery and even human and animal remains have been found at the bottom of some cenotes.

The cenotes near Playa Del Carmen are a mix of open, semi-open or underground:

Open cenotes: These are caves which have completely collapsed in on themselves and are exposed to the sky. These are our favourite as you can swim in the open air, the water is a pleasant temperature and there are usually lots of areas to relax by the water. Our favorite open cenote in Playa Del Carmen is Cenote Azul, Cenote Zacil-Ha in nearby Tulum and Cenote Oxman near Valladolid.

Semi-open cenotes: these cenotes are mostly underground but have small openings in the ceiling where light and fresh air come in.  These cenotes can be particularly beautiful as the light beams illuminate the crystal-clear water below. Our favorite semi-open cenote near Playa Del Carmen is   Cenote Ik Kil which can be visited as part of a day trip to Chichen Itza and Cenote Samula , one of the cenotes near Valladolid .

Underground cenotes: these cenotes are completely underground in a cave system and have no natural light to illuminate the cenote water. The three cenotes near the Coba ruins (Multum-Ha, Tamchach-Ha and Choo-Ha) are amazing underground cenotes you can easily visit from Playa Del Carmen on a longer stay.

11 Best Cenotes near Playa Del Carmen

These are our favorite cenotes near Playa Del Carmen – we think they are a great inclusion in any Playa Del Carmen or Yucatan itinerary!

1 | Cenote Azul

Best for: Cenote Azul is best for families, open-air swimming, chilling in the water and having some fun jumping from the relatively easy natural platforms.

The large open air Cenote Azul , with its shallow waters and fun cliff jump, is one of our favorite Playa Del Carmen cenotes. The main cenote is split into two swimming areas which are separated by a wooden boardwalk. The shallow side of the cenote, where younger kids can paddle in the clear waters, is popular with families. The deeper pool has a cliff perched above it which is great for having some fun jumping into the cenote. Snorkeling is also popular on this side.

Best Playa Del Carmen Cenotes tip: Cenote Azul is easily accessible from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum and, as a result, gets very busy. We recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds.

How to get to Cenote Azul: Cenote Azul is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ), a local Colectivo or a quick taxi ride. Colectivos leave from 2nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver you want to get out at Cenote Azul.

Book your rental car now

Cenote Azul ticket cost: entry to Cenote Azul costs $150 pesos per person

If you are planning a visit, check out our detailed guide to Cenote Azul – click here to read!

2 | Cenote Zacil-Ha

Best for: families

If you are planning a trip (and you most definitely should!) to nearby Tulum, make sure to visit Cenote Zacil Ha and its neighbor, Cenote Carwash.

Cenote Zacil-Ha is a small and beautiful open air cenote with crystal clear waters. There are lots of opportunities to jump from the sides or even zip line across and drop into the cenote from above! Other features include hammocks and regular swimming pools to lounge around!

How to get to Cenote Zacil Ha: Cenote Zacil Ha is a great inclusion to a Tulum or Coba day trip. It is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now !  If you are traveling by Colectivo from Playa Del Carmen, take a taxi or a second Colectivo in the direction of Coba when you arrive in Tulum. Colectivos leave from 2 nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver where you want to disembark.

Cenote Zacil Ha ticket cost: tickets cost $200 pesos, $10 pesos for zipline

3 | Gran Cenote

Best for: snorkeling, diving, swimming

Gran Cenote is a large and popular cenote located outside Tulum. It is made up of a collection of caves, caverns and an open air cenote. It is one of the best diving cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula.

The waters are crystal clear, so clear that it is often possible to spot turtles swimming in its waters. Gran Cenote is also incredible for snorkeling. It is relatively easy to swim and snorkel into the caves for a spectacular view of the light beams hitting the water through the cave opening and to check out the rock formations.

Best Playa Del Carmen Cenotes: Gran Cenote is really popular and we recommend visiting early or late in the day to avoid the crowds. The cenote is open from 8am to 4:45pm, with last entry at 4:15pm.

How to get to Cenote Gran: Gran Cenote is a great inclusion to a Tulum or Coba day trip. It is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now!) . If you are traveling by Colectivo from Playa Del Carmen, take a taxi or a second Colectivo in the direction of Coba when you arrive in Tulum. Colectivos leave from 2 street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver where you want to disembark.

Cenote Gran ticket cost: tickets for Gran Cenote cost $500 pesos

4 | Cenote Carwash

Best for: swimming, diving, those looking for an easily accessible and chilled cenote experience

A neighbor of the previously mentioned Zacil- Ha, the small and relaxed Cenote Ak Tun Ha is also known the Carwash Cenote as it was once used for exactly that, washing cars! The cenote has a large open air pool which is just feet from the car park and a variety of wildlife lives within its waters.

Fish and turtles swim in an underwater world of stalactites and stalagmites and a little resident crocodile occasionally makes an appearance. The undergrowth leads to a cave section. Cenote Carwash reaches up to 50 feet in depth and it is common to see divers emerging from its waters.

How to get to Cenote Carwash: Cenote Carwash is a great inclusion to a Tulum or Coba day trip. It is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ) If you are traveling by Colectivo from Playa Del Carmen, take a taxi or a second Colectivo in the direction of Coba when you arrive in Tulum. Colectivos leave from 2 nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver where you want to disembark.

Cenote Carwash ticket cost: tickets cost $300 pesos

If you are planning a visit, check out our detailed guide to Cenote Carwash – click here to read!

5 | Cenote Dos Ojos

Best for: divers, swimming, snorkeling

Located between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the best diving cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Its name translates as Cenote Two Eyes in reference to the double sinkholes connected by a boardwalk which take the appearance of two eyes. The double sinkholes join to form an underground cavern. Many visitors opt to join a snorkeling tour down into the caves. With its deep cave system, Dos Ojos is very popular with divers.

How to get to Cenote Dos Ojos: Cenote Dos Ojos is most easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ) . If you are traveling by Colectivo from Playa Del Carmen, the drop off point is on highway 307 at the entrance to the Dos Ojos park – be aware, it is a 30 minute walk along a dirt road to the cenote. Colectivos leave from 2 nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver where you want to disembark.

Cenote Dos Ojos ticket cost: tickets are $450 pesos and this includes all cenotes in the Dos Ojos park – both Sac Actun and Nicte Ha are also incredible and worth a visit if you have time. Individual tickets for Dos Ojos only are $350 pesos.

6 | Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Crisatlino is located very close to previously mentioned Cenote Azul and is definitely worth a stop. This cenote is an open air cenote and home to  some of the most beautiful crystal clear blue waters in Mexico.

How to get to Cenote Cristalino: Cenote Cristalino is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ), a local Colectivo or a quick taxi ride. Colectivos leave from 2nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver you want to get out at Cenote Cristalino. It can easily be combined with a visit to the nearby Cenote Azul and Cenote Jardin Del Eden.

Cenote Cristalino ticket cost: entry to Cenote Cristalino costs $150 pesos per person

7 | Cenote Jardin Del Eden

Together with the neighboring Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristalino, Cenote Jardin Del Eden is one of the most popular Playa Del Carmen cenotes.

Upon entering the cenote, which also goes by the name Cenote Ponderosa, it’s instantly apparent how it was named the Garden of Eden – the large open air swimming pool is surrounded by lush green vegetation and looks exactly like you’d imagine the Garden of Eden to be.

As well as swimming in its clear waters, Cenote Jardin Del Eden is great for cliff jumping and snorkeling. It’s cave system is very popular with scuba divers.

Playa Del Carmen cenotes tip: some parts of Cenote Jardin Del Eden are extremely deep so be careful.

How to get to Cenote Jardin Del Eden: Cenote Jardin Del Eden is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ), a local Colectivo or a quick taxi ride. Colectivos leave from 2nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver you want to get out at Cenote Jardin Del Eden  

Cenote Jardin Del Eden ticket cost: entry to Cenote Jardin Del Eden costs $200 pesos per person.

8 | Casa Cenote

Casa Cenote, on the highway between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, is one of the most unique cenotes near Playa del Carmen. The crystal clear turquoise waters are surrounded by lush trees and mangrove and it can be combined with a visit to the beach, a short distance away. Visitors can swim, kayak or paddle board in the cenote and, at only 6 meters deep, it is family friendly. Snorkeling is popular at Casa Cenote and it also attracts divers with its underwater cave system which leads directly to the ocean.

How to get to Casa Cenote: Casa Cenote is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ), a local Colectivo (if you don’t mind the walk from the highway) or a taxi ride. Colectivos leave from 2nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver you want to get out at Casa Cenote – it is about a 20 minute walk along a dirt road surrounded by jungle.

Casa Cenote ticket cost:  entrance to Casa Cenote is $150 pesos.

9 | Cenote Tajma Ha 

Best for:  intermediate/advanced divers

Cenote Tajma Ha was originally known as Cenote Taj Mahal by cave divers mesmerized by the natural wonder. It is most popular with divers as it’s one of the best cenotes near Playa Del Carmen for scuba diving. There are a number of companies that run dive tours into the cenote and the fresh water dives are most suited to intermediate and advanced divers. If have a diving certification, Cenote Tajma Ha is the best one to try.

How to get to Cenote Tajma Ha: Cenote Tajma Ha is easily reached (around 30 minutes) by rental car from Playa del Carmen ( check prices now! ), a local Colectivo or a quick taxi ride. Colectivos leave from 2nd street in Playa Del Carmen, just tell the driver you want to get out at Cenote Tajma Ha.

Cenotes to visit on Day Trips from Playa Del Carmen

Most visitors to Playa Del Carmen want to experience at least one of the ancient Mayan ruin sites that are located around the Yucatan Peninsula. We wanted to include these incredible cenotes which are easily included in a trip to some of the Yucatan’s most famous ruins: Chichen Itza, Coba and Ek Balam.

10 | Cenote Ik Kil at Chicen Itza

Best for: those who want to experience one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico

Chichen Itza is one of the most popular day trips from Playa Del Carmen and the nearby Cenote Ik Kil is one of the most beautiful cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula.

The roof of Cenote Ik Kil has collapsed entirely and tree roots cascade into the cenote waters making for a spectacular scene. Gazing up at the open sky while swimming in Cenote Ik Kil is a surreal experience and we absolutely recommend including it in a visit to Chichen Itza. It’s easily accessible from Playa Del Carmen and, even if you don’t have your own transport, most tours include a stop at Cenote Ik Kil.

Best Playa Del Carmen Cenotes tip: Cenote Ik Kil can get very busy in the middle of the day with the many tours and individuals which arrive as part of a trip to Chichen ItzaWe recommend arriving at Cenote Ek Kil early – it is best to arrive at 9am for the cenote opening. One of the easiest ways to do this is to stay nearby. We stayed at the Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows in order to visit Chichen Itza at sunrise followed by a visit to Cenote Ik Kil which is a 5-minute drive from the hotel – book your stay now!  

How to get to Cenote Ik Kil: Cenote Ik Kil is easily reached by rental car  ( check prices now! ) . It is also possible to take the dedicated ADO coach which travels from Playa Del Carmen to Chicen Itza although be prepared for an almost 4 hour journey time. Probably the easiest way (aside from a rental car) to visit Cenote Ik Kil is part of a tour to Chichen Itza. There are a number of tours from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum that include Cenote Ik Kil as part of a day trip itinerary –  check prices now!

Book your tour now!

Cenote Ik Kil ticket cost:  Cenote Ik Kil entry is $150 pesos per person.

If you are planning a visit, check out our detailed guide to Cenote Ik Kil – click here to read!

11 | Cenote Xcanche at Ek Balam

Best for:  independent travelers as many group tours do not allow time to visit, those seeking a refreshing swim after exploring the ruins, adventurers who like jumping and ziplining

Ek Balam is a popular excursion with many visitors to Mexico wanting to experience a less well known Mayan ruin. A beautiful cenote, the Ek Balam Cenote Xcanche, is located in the same village and is accessed close to the entrance of the Ek Balam archaeological zone.

Cenote Xcanche is a stunning open cenote with a waterfall streaming into the cenote. As well as swimming, zip-lining and swing jumps are also popular at this quiet cenote.

Xcanche is the perfect place to relax and cool off after a busy morning exploring Ek Balam ruins and we highly recommend taking the time to visit this cenote.

Best Playa Del Carmen cenotes tip:  the cenote entrance is located before the ticket checks for Ek Balam so you can visit the ruins and the cenote independently.

How to get to Cenote Xcanche:  Cenote Xcanche is located around 2 km from the entrance to Ek Balam  ruins. You can walk, cycle or take a bike taxi. We took a bike taxi over after exploring the Ek Balam ruins. From Playa Del Carmen, Ek Balam is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ) or by taking a bus to Valladolid and making the rest of the journey by colectivo or taxi.

Cenote Xcanche ticket cost:  a ticket to Cenote Xcanche is $70 pesos. The return taxi bike, including the entrance ticket, cost us $150 pesos in total.

12 | Cenote Suytun

Best for: experiencing the light beams cascading into the cenote cave, Instagrammers

The spectacular Cenote Suytun became Instagram famous a few years ago.  Cenote Suytun is famous for the beautiful light beams that stream down through the roof of the cenote onto the circular platform below. This cenote definitely lives up to the hype – it really is as beautiful in person as it is in photos. A visit is easily combined with a trip to the Coba ruins and only adds around an hour to the return journey from Playa Del Carmen.

Visitors are also allowed to swim in Cenote Suytun but many just stop by for the purpose of capturing some memorable photos. Swimmers are required to wear life jackets.

Playa Del Carmen Cenotes tip: For most of the Playa Del Carmen Cenotes we recommend an early or late visit as the best way to avoid the crowds. However, the light beams at Cenote Suytun mean that a late morning/afternoon visit is best – this is when the light beams are most likely to shine directly onto the circular platform, a magical experience. The afternoons at Cenote Suytun can be busy with tour buses but sometimes busy can be best!

How to get to Cenote Suytun:  Cenote Suytun is easily accessed by rental car ( check prices now! ). Alternatively, take an ADO bus to Valladolid and, from there, a local Colectivo or a quick taxi ride will take you to the ruins. There are also a number of tours from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum that include Cenote Suytun as part of a day trip to Chichen Itza – check prices now!

Cenote Suytun ticket prices : entry is $200 pesos per person.

If you are planning a visit, check out our detailed guide to Cenote Suytun – click here to read!

13 | The Coba Cenotes

Many visitors to Playa del Carmen make the day trip to the incredible Mayan ruins at Coba and there are 3 great cenotes located close to the Coba ruins entrance: Cenote Choo-Ha , Tamcach-Ha and Multum-Ha are a series of small cenotes which are perfect for a refreshing swim after exploring the incredible jungle ruins.

Cenote Choo-Ha, Tamcach-Ha and Multum-Ha are all underground cenotes: two are caves while Multum-Ha has a small opening in the roof.

Choo-Ha, with its crystal clear waters and interesting rock formations was our favorite and the shallow waters make it perfect for a family visit. Tamcach-Ha, just a few hundred meters away, is equally as beautifully and the jumping platforms add a fun element to a swim. Cenote Multum-Ha takes a little more effort to get to as it’s a few kilometers away but its deep waters and light beams which descend through the small hole in the roof, are lovely to experience.

Best Playa Del Carmen cenotes tip: The Coba cenotes are not heavily visited by tourists so they are super quiet. We had two of them entirely to ourselves when we visited which was amazing!

How to get to Coba cenotes: These cenotes are most easily reached by rental car from Playa del Carmen ( check prices now! ) as part of a day trip to the Coba ruins. Some tours to the Coba ruins include some of the cenotes but not all. For this reason we highly recommend renting a car in Cancun .

 Coba Cenote ticket cost:  a ticket covering all three cenotes is $100 pesos.

Disclaimer:  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

20 BEST Playa del Carmen Cenotes to Visit in 2024

Looking for the best cenotes in Playa del Carmen Mexico? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , one of my favorite things to do is get out and explore new cenotes in the area.

Visiting a cenote is such a unique activity where you really get to experience the natural beauty of the region–which is unlike anywhere else in the world.

In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations for the best Playa del Carmen cenotes that are worth visiting, as well as some even more incredible cenotes that are a located little further away. 

Ready to discover the top cenotes in Playa del Carmen? Let’s get started!

Best Playa del Carmen Cenotes

These are the best cenotes Playa del Carmen Mexico has to offer:

MY TOP PICK

If you want to skip the hassle of getting to cenotes on your own, I highly recommend the all-inclusive Xenotes Tour –all transportation and meals are included during your visit to 4 private cenotes!

1. Eden Cenote

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (30 min from PDC)
• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 9AM–5PM (Closed Saturdays)
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $200 MXN (~$11 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Cliff Jumping, Swimming, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving

Eden Cenote (“Cenote Jardin del Eden” in Spanish) was the very first cenote I ever visited in Mexico and still remains one of my favorites! 

Located just 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen , Eden Cenote is easily accessible from the main highway and can be found adjacent to two other popular Playa del Carmen cenotes–Cenote Cristalino and Cenote Azul.  

Known as the Garden of Eden, Cenote Eden is a large open cenote with a deep swimming pool in the center, offering a few different jumping ledges for those that want to dive right in.

And for extreme thrill-seekers, you can even jump from a large tree branch protruding out over the water.  I definitely had to work up the courage but it is a thrilling adrenaline rush! 

For those that don’t want to jump, there are also wooden stairs that descend to the cenote’s crystal clear dark turquoise water.

Once in the water, you can swim, snorkel, and even get a free foot spa from the tiny cenote fish.

Plus, Eden Cenote Playa del Carmen is connected to a deep underground cavern, making it a popular cenote for scuba divers.

You can read my full Cenote Eden guide for all the details–it gets my vote for the best cenote in Playa del Carmen!

🤿 Best Cenote Eden Tours: Private Tour to 3 Cenotes in the Riviera Maya with Lunch Eden Cenote Scuba Diving

2. Cenote Cristalino

• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 8AM–6PM
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Cliff Jumping, Swimming, Snorkeling, Caves

Meaning “crystal clear”, Cenote Cristalino is another popular Playa del Carmen cenote located right next to Cenote Eden and Cenote Azul. 

With many different pools and bodies of water, you can explore, snorkel, or just relax in a beautiful setting.  It also has a moderately sized jumping ledge for an extra adrenaline rush!

Another cool feature at Cristalino Cenote is a cavern where you can float through a cave-like tunnel and admire the stalactites and stalagmites.

Be sure to head to the back of the cenote where you’ll find Cenote Escondido, a hidden cenote pool in a secluded natural setting. 

Cenote Cristalino is one my favorite Playa del Carmen cenotes because there are so many unique places to swim, jump, or just hang out.

You can read my full Cenote Cristalino guide for all the details!

🤿 Best Cenote Cristalino Tours: Private Tour to 3 Cenotes in the Riviera Maya with Lunch

3. Cenote Azul

• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 8:30AM–5:30PM
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $150 MXN (~$8 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Cliff jumping, Swimming, Snorkeling

Completing the trifecta of the three adjacent cenotes, Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote) is also located just 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. 

Cenote Azul has several different pools with varying depths, as well as a smaller jumping ledge for those that want to jump right in.

Most of the pools are pretty shallow, which makes Cenote Azul the best cenote in Playa del Carmen for families.

At Cenote Azul, you can wander around exploring the different pools, dip your feet in the water for a free fish spa experience, or snorkel to admire the fish and underwater rocks. 

While this Playa del Carmen cenote doesn’t have a ton of activities, it’s a very pretty setting and there are some beautiful natural bridges connecting the pools. 

You can read my full Cenote Azul Playa del Carmen guide for all the details!

🤿 Best Cenote Azul Tours: Private Tour to 3 Cenotes in the Riviera Maya with Lunch

4. Cenote Chikin Ha

• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $350 MXN (~$20 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Diving, Ziplines, Mountain Bikes

Cenote Chikin Ha is located about 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, close to Cenote Eden but further inland so it’s easiest to get there by car.

Chikin Ha is a cenote complex where you have the option to go on a guided tour and visit three different cenotes–Chikin Ha, Ta’ak Bil-Ha, and X-tabay.

X-tabay is a beautiful open cenote, while Chikin Ha is a semi-open cave cenote suitable for swimming and diving. And Ta’ak Bil-Ha is not suitable for swimming but used for ceremonial purposes.

Cenote Chikin Ha also offer other adventure activities for an added charge including ziplines, rappeling, cave exploration, and mountain bikes.

The admission price is a little more expensive but it’s more of an all inclusive cenote experience, and you get to visit 3 different cenotes.

🤿 Best Cenote Chikin Ha Tours: Tulaka Cenote Experience Private Full-Day Cenote Diving Experience 2 Dives with Lunch

5. Cenote Chaak Tun

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (15 min from PDC)
• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 9AM–5PM
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $50 USD
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Guided Tour, Swimming, Snorkeling, Cave Exploration

Located just 15 minutes west of downtown Playa del Carmen, Cenote Chaak Tun is probably the best cenote close to Playa del Carmen’s town center.

Its location makes it quick and easy to get to by car or taxi. Or you could even bike there from downtown.

There aren’t many developed cenotes near downtown Playa del Carmen so this is a great option if you are short on time!

Chaak Tun Cenote Playa del Carmen has two smaller cenotes and offers a 2 hour guided group tour experience rather than visiting on your own.

It’s more expensive but you’ll have a certified guide who will lead you as you swim through the deep underground caves and admire the stalactites and rock formations. 

🤿 Best Cenote Chaak Tun Tours: Cenote Exploration Tour – Mayan culture & ancient fossils & FUN!

6. Cenote Dos Ojos

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (45 min from PDC)
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $400 MXN (~$23 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Caves

Meaning “Two Eyes,” Dos Ojos Cenote is one of the most popular cenotes near Tulum featuring two twin cenotes next to each other. 

Dos Ojos is located about 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen in a more commercialized cenote park, which includes a restaurant and amenities. 

The cenote can be reached by public transportation but it’s about a 30 minute walk from the highway so it’s easiest to go by rental car or taxi.

The entrance fee for Cenote Dos Ojos is a little more expensive but it’s such a one-of-a-kind experience and you’ll see why it’s considered to be one of the best cenotes in Tulum.

You can also pay for an upgraded tour which includes a guide and all snorkeling equipment.

With stunning blue water and natural cave formations, it is possible to swim and snorkel at Dos Ojos on your own but the cenote is more popular for scuba diving.  Guided snorkeling and diving tours are also available. 

🤿 Best Cenote Dos Ojos Tours: 2 Cenotes Adventure from Tulum – Small Group – All Inclusive 2 tanks Cenote Diving Adventure in Tulum for Certified Divers

7. Cenote Nicte Ha

• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE :$300 MXN (~$17 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving

Located in the same cenote park as Dos Ojos Cenote, Cenote Nicte Ha is a smaller cenote with a more tranquil vibe.

It’s a small open cenote so it doesn’t offer the same cave-like experience as Dos Ojos–but you can definitely visit both in one day to get the full experience! 

Cenote Nicte Ha is more quiet and relaxed, and much less crowded than its nearby neighboring cenotes.

Plus, the water is covered in floating water lilies which makes for a really beautiful setting. 

🤿 Best Cenote Nicte Ha Tours: Private tour to Tulum and Cenote with Mayan Lunch Private Cenotes Tour Tulum Ruins Private Tour with Turtle and Cenote Snorkeling

8. Gran Cenote

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (1 hr from PDC)
• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 8AM–4:45PM
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $500 MXN (~$25 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Caves

Gran Cenote is another of the more popular Tulum cenotes located less than 10 minutes outside of downtown Tulum. 

It has a smaller open swimming area with beautiful turquoise water, as well as a cave you can float or snorkel through and admire the rock formations.

Snorkeling gear and life jackets can be rented for an additional cost, and there are some amenities like bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, and snacks for purchase.

It’s not huge so it can get crowded with tours coming through–I would definitely recommend getting there early to beat the crowds!

🤿 Best Gran Cenote Tours: Private Tour The Best Cenotes in Tulum Riviera Maya Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum

9. Cenote Taak Bi Ha

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (50 min from PDC)
• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 9:00AM–5:00PM

Cenote Taak Bi Ha is an absolutely beautiful and less well known cave cenote located adjacent to the Dos Ojos cenote park.

After a short hike, you’ll go down some steep stairs to arrive at a closed cenote with stunning stalactites and rock formations.

It’s an underground cavern and there are lights illuminating the bright turquoise water and surrounding natural pools.

Taak Bi Ha Cenote is one of the best Playa del Carmen underground cenotes, making perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on a hot day to escape the heat.  Guided tours are available but not required. 

You can read my full Cenote Taak Bi Ha guide for all the details!

🤿 Best Cenote Taak Bi Ha Tours: Small-Group Cenote Adventure Tour Private Tour to Tulum and Cenote with Mayan Lunch Tulum Ruins and Cenote Taak-bi-ha Private Tour

10. Casa Cenote

• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Scuba Diving

Casa Cenote is an open lagoon-type cenote located about 50 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. It holds a special place in my heart because it’s where I got scuba certified!

Different from traditional cenotes, Casa Cenote Playa del Carmen feels more like a long lazy river–making it perfect for floating, kayaking, and standup paddleboarding . 

It’s also a very popular destination for scuba divers, as it’s relatively shallow and there’s even a unique halocline–where the fresh and salt water meets.

Casa Cenote is also surrounded by lush mangroves and is located close enough to the beach if you want to head over to the ocean to spend the rest of your day. 

You can read my full Casa Cenote guide for all the details!

🐊 When visiting Casa Cenote, be sure to be on the lookout for “Panchito”, the small crocodile that lives there!

🤿 Best Casa Cenote Tours: SUP Cenote Tour – Private Paddleboard & Snorkel Tour Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum 2 Cenotes Adventure from Tulum – Small Group – All Inclusive

11. Cenotes Casa Tortuga Tulum

• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $700 MXN (~$41 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Cliff Jumping, Swimming, Snorkeling, Ziplines

Cenotes Casa Tortuga is a group of four cenotes located just outside of Tulum. It’s more of a commercialized cenotes park, with a single entrance fee.

The cenotes offer a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and ziplining.

The cenotes are named Wisho, Campana, Tres Zapotes, and Jaguar, and each cenote has its own unique features.

Wisho is a semi-open cenote, where you can admire bats and fossils as you float through caves. Campana is a smaller semi-open cavern cenote with stalagtites and stalagmites.

Tres Zapotes is a large open cenote with a series of interconnected pools and jumping legdes. Jaguar is a semi-open cavern cenote where you can admire impressive tree roots and fossils.

Cenotes Casa Tortuga is little bit more commercialized but a great way to see multiple types of cenotes in one day.

🤿 Best Cenotes Casa Tortuga Tours: From Playa del Carmen: Casa Tortuga Cenotes & Zipline Tour Tour 4 Cenotes + Zipline (Optional). Includes Pick up service

12. Cenote Carwash

• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $300 MXN (~$17 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Jumping, Rope Swing

Cenote Carwash is a large, open-air cenote located on the road from Tulum to Cobá . It offers visitors a unique and refreshing swimming experience in a pond-like setting.

The cenote is named for its proximity to a former car wash that used the cenote’s waters to clean cars.

Visitors can spend a few hours at the cenote, enjoying its lagoon-like environment and taking advantage of the fun jumping platform and rope swing.

Plus, Cenote Carwash is located close to Cenote Zacil Ha and Gran Cenote, which makes it easy to go cenote hopping and see multiple cenotes in one day.

13. Cenote Zacil Ha

• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 10:30AM–5:30PM
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Jumping, Swimming, Snorkeling, Zipline

Located just next to Cenote Carwash, Cenote Zacil Ha is a beautiful cenote located just outside of Tulum.

The cenote is named after the Mayan word for “clear water.” Cenote Zacil Ha is a great place to swim, snorkel, and there’s even a small zipline for an extra charge.

Cenote Zacil Ha is a smaller open cenote with bright turquoise water that is refreshing and clear.

The cenote is surrounded by lush vegetation, and there are also hammocks and lounge beds available for rent.

14. Cenote Corazón del Paraíso

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (1 hr 10 min from PDC)
• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 9:30AM–4:30PM
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling

Cenote Corazón del Paraiso is one of the best cenotes in Riviera Maya, located just outside of Tulum and a little over an hour from Playa del Carmen.

The cenote is named for its heart shape, which is visible from aerial shots.

A platform was constructed in the middle contributing to its heart shape so it’s not completely natural!

But nonetheless, its small size makes it intimate and it has a small jumping platform. Or you can just swim and snorkel in middle of the pool.

15. Cenote Yax Kin

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (40 min from PDC)

Cenote Yax Kin is a beautiful cenote located near Tulum, and about 40 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. It offers crystal-clear waters and a serene natural environment for visitors to enjoy.

Cenote Yax Kin is one of the best Playa del Carmen cenotes for families looking for a unique and inexpensive outdoor activity.

The cenote features several levels of depth, allowing both kids and adults to swim safely. The whole family can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters and relaxing in the natural surroundings.

Plus, Cenote Yax Kin also provides lounge chairs, palapas, picnic tables, and grilling areas where you can prepare your own lunch.

Best Cenotes near Valladolid

If you want to visit some truly amazing cenotes, you need to head to Valladolid, which is a colonial town less than 2 hours away from Playa del Carmen, and a must-visit destination on any Yucatan itinerary . 

Near Valladolid you can find some of the most stunning other-worldly cenotes, which are honestly some of the best cenotes in Mexico–trust me you will be blown away!

16. Ik Kil Cenote

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (2.5 hrs from PDC)
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $180 MXN (~$10 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Cliff Jumping

Located near Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote is one of the most impressive cenotes in the entire Yucatan peninsula.

I visited Ik Kil Cenote on the Chichen Itza tour and was blown away by its sheer size and natural beauty!

It’s a massive cenote descending hundreds of feet underground with cascading plants all the way down to the water’s surface. 

Upon arrival, you are required to shower to remove any sunscreen, and then you’ll descend down a winding staircase to the bottom of the cenote.

At the bottom there are wide wooden ladders to enter the water or you can take turns jumping from a few different levels. 

The cenote is extremely deep so you’ll definitely want to wear a life jacket unless you want to tread water the entire time! 

It’s really stunning just to float and admire such a massive underground hole–the views looking up are incredible!  

Ik Kil Cenote offers very well-maintained facilities including showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms. 

I would recommend visiting early as it can get very crowded with both large groups and even private Chichen Itza tour visitors.

🤿 Best Cenote Ik Kil Tours: Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Private Tour Chichen Itza Deluxe, 2 Cenotes, Lunch, Beverages and Valladolid tour

17. Suytún Cenote

• 📍 LOCATION : Google Maps (2 hrs from PDC)
• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 9AM–4:30PM
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $250 MXN (~$14 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Photography

Located near Valladolid, Suytun Cenote is hands down the most instagrammable cenote in the entire Yucatan region.

It’s an almost fully enclosed cave and has an iconic standing platform directly centered below the light beaming down from a hole in the ceiling.

There are stairs leading down to the bottom of the cenote and you can admire the incredible stalactites looming above.

Cenote Suytun is more shallow so it’s better suited for snorkeling rather than diving. 

It’s definitely beautiful but you will likely be fighting the crowds for the perfect photo op!

🤿 Best Cenote Suytun Tours: Private Tour – The best Cenotes in Yucatan – Suytun & Oxman Cenote Suytun & Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Half-Day Yucatan’s Hidden Gems Tour with Pickup

18. Zaci Cenote

• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 8AM–5:30PM
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $60 MXN (~$3.50 USD)
• 🤿 ACTIVITIES : Swimming, Snorkeling, Ziplines

Located in the heart of downtown Valladolid, Zaci Cenote is another one of the best cenotes in the Yucatan region.

With its central location, visiting Zaci Cenote is one of the best things to do in Valladolid , and very accessible without having to worry about transportation. 

The cenote is a massive sinkhole that is half enclosed so you’ll get to experience the cave-like setting plus some sunshine and lush green vegetation. 

Since the water is so deep it’s not the best place for snorkeling, but rather a great place to swim, cool off, or jump into the water. 

19. Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman

• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 10AM–5PM

Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is a huge and impressive cenote located near Valladolid in the Yucatán peninsula of Mexico.

This cenote is characterized by its underground cave style, featuring a collapsed cave with an open roof that allows natural light to illuminate the clear waters below.

The cenote is part of Hacienda San Lorenzo, a beautiful complex that dates back to 1746 and was formerly an agave plantation.

One of the highlights of Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is its rope swing, which allows visitors to make a fun and dramatic entrance into the cenote.

Plus, the sight of hanging tree roots cascading down into the cenote adds to its enchanting atmosphere.

🤿 Best Cenote Oxman Tours: VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour Half-Day Yucatan’s Hidden Gems Tour with Pickup

20. Cenote Xkeken (Cenote Dzitnup)

• 🕒 HOURS : Daily from 8AM–5PM
• 🎟 ENTRANCE FEE : $230 MXN (~$13 USD)

Cenote Xkeken, also known as Cenote Dzitnup or Cenote Xquequen, is another popular cenote located near Valladolid.

It is situated deep underground and is known for its stunning rock formations and unique swimming experience.

Cenote Xkeken is often visited in combination with another nearby cenote called Cenote Samula, as they are located next to each other.

Visitors have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Xkeken and admire its impressive rock formations.

The underground setting adds to the cenote’s unique charm and provides a tranquil and refreshing environment for swimming.

Cenote Dzitnup is not as well-maintained as other cenotes but its dramatic underground rock formations are so impressive.

🤿 Best Cenote Xkeken ( Cenote Dzitnup) Tours: Private Tour Chichén Itzá from Playa del Carmen

Cenote Tours from Playa del Carmen

Another great way to visit cenotes close to Playa del Carmen is by going on a cenote tour, which saves you the hassle of getting there on your own. 

Playa del Carmen cenote tours are a great option if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience with round-trip transportation, a tour guide, and food and beverages included. 

Below are the best options for a Playa del Carmen cenote tour:

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 600 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 9 hours
• 🎟  HOW TO BOOK : Check prices and availability here →

Xenotes is a Playa del Carmen cenotes tour by Grupo Xcaret where you can visit four different types of cenotes (open, semi-open, ancient, and cavern) in one day.

You’ll also get to experience a variety of different water activities like rappelling, ziplining, kayaking, swimming, and cliff jumping. 

Round-trip transportation, a certified tour guide, breakfast, and a picnic lunch are included in the admission.

I personally went on the Xenotes tour and can’t recommend it enough–it’s the best Playa del Carmen cenote tour and the easiest way to visit a cenote for the first time!

You can read my full Xenotes review for all the details!

Rio Secreto

• ⭐️  RATING : 4.5 out of 5 stars (with more than 240 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 5 hours

Rio Secreto  is one of the most popular things to do in Riviera Maya where you can swim through an impressive underground river with over 1 kilometer of stalactites and stalagmites.

At this totally unique natural attraction, you get to trek through underwater caves and cenotes, as well as participate in additional activities like biking and rappelling.

And with it being underground,  Rio Secreto  is an all-weather activity and makes for a great rainy day activity in Riviera Maya.

It really feels like you are in another world! You can read my full  Rio Secreto review  for all the details!

Cenote Zapote Eco Park

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 110 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 6 hours

Located about 30 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, Cenote Zapote is an eco park near Puerto Morelos along the famous “Ruta de los Cenotes”.

Visiting Cenote Zapote is a full day adventure park experience offering both cenotes and some of the best ziplining in Playa del Carmen .

At the eco-park, you’ll get to visit three stunning cenotes, as well as zipline through the jungle, explore the park on bikes, and cruise around on ATVs.

The three different cenotes offer all kinds of fun including overwater ziplines, extreme cliff jumping, and cave exploration.

You can read my full Cenote Zapote guide for all the details–it was such a fun day!

Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 570 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 4-6 hours

Perfect for families,  this top-rated Private Cenote Tour from Playa del Carmen is the best way to experience cenotes and outdoor adventure activities in Riviera Maya without the crowds.

You’ll get to go snorkeling, canoeing, zip-lining, and swimming in a secluded cenote in the middle of the jungle — all at your own pace.

Plus, a visit to an adjacent Mayan village and delicious lunch are included in this Playa del Carmen private tour for an added Mayan culture experience.

Private Dream Underground World Tour

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 310 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 3-4 hours

This top-rated Dream Underground World Private Cenote Tour  gives you the unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the underground world near Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

You’ll visit the Cenotes Sac Actun underwater cave system, where you can swim and snorkel at your own pace in crystal clear waters while learning about the area’s ancient geology from a knowledgeable guide.

Next, you’ll explore a private cave at Dos Ojos Cenote, one of the most iconic underground cenotes near Tulum.

And since it’s just a half-day tour, it’s perfect for those short on time.

More About Visiting Playa del Carmen Cenotes

Here is more info on visiting cenotes around Playa del Carmen:

What is a cenote?

Cenotes are freshwater swimming holes that are formed when limestone collapses to create an underground sinkhole. 

Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula is known for its incredible cenotes as there are literally thousands of cenotes in the region and more and more are being discovered each year.  

When you visit a cenote, you can typically swim, snorkel, or just hang out in a beautiful natural setting.

Many cenotes also offer the opportunity to jump into the water from high ledges for an extra thrill.

And with their expansive network of underwater caves, cenotes are also popular dive sites for scuba diving.

Why visit Playa del Carmen cenotes?

The Riviera Maya is known for its beautiful beaches (which are no doubt amazing!) but visiting a cenote is an activity that really allows you to experience the natural beauty of the Yucatan peninsula. 

Cenotes were once revered by the Mayans as a way to communicate with the gods so experiencing a cenote is truly a unique way to connect with the more ancient culture of the region. 

In my opinion, visiting a cenote is one of the best things to do in Mexico and really shouldn’t be missed!

Plus, cenotes are a great option for a cloudy day and one of the best activities to do when there is a large amount of seaweed on the beaches. 

Best time to visit Playa del Carmen cenotes

Generally speaking, the best time to visit a cenote is during the week.  Cenotes can be very busy on the weekends (especially Sundays) with many Mexican families visiting. 

Sometimes cenotes can even reach capacity and additional visitors will be denied entry.  I would recommend getting there as early as possible to beat the crowds.

What to Expect When Visiting Playa del Carmen Cenotes

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when visiting cenotes near Playa del Carmen:

When you first arrive at a cenote, there will usually be a small building where you’ll pay the entrance fee and collect your lifejacket (if available). 

From there you’ll usually descend down stairs or walk through a wooded area before arriving to the main cenote.  It’s a completely natural setting so you can expect an uneven and rocky path. 

Once you arrive to the swimming area, there will usually be stairs to enter the water.  Be careful they can be extremely slippery! 

Many cenotes also offer jumping ledges for an extra thrill.  I’m slightly afraid of heights but I almost always go for the jumping option when I visit cenotes. 

Be prepared the water will usually be VERY cold–it won’t be long until your teeth are chattering! 

I would definitely recommend wearing a rash guard for extra warmth, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months. 

Entrance Fees

The entrance fee for each cenote will vary but you can expect to pay from $100-$500 pesos (~$5-$25 USD).  If it’s a guided tour it may be more.

Be sure to bring cash in Mexican pesos as credit cards will likely not be accepted. 

Once you pay the entrance fee, you will be given a wristband that grants you access to the cenote.

Depending on the type of cenote you visit, there will be different activities available.

Most offer the opportunity to jump into the water from high ledges, swim, float, or simply dip your feet into the water, experience a fish spa, or snorkel. 

Cenotes are also extremely popular for scuba divers so you will often see divers or their air bubbles coming up from under the water.

Some cenotes are much more touristy and will have full amenities such as a restaurant, snacks for purchase, lounge chair rentals, showers, lockers, changing rooms, and well-maintained bathrooms. 

However more commonly you will just find minimal amenities such as bathrooms and life jacket or snorkel gear rentals.

Some cenotes have lockers where you can pay a small fee (around $50 pesos) to store your personal belongings.  However many of the smaller cenotes do not have lockers. 

Most people will just find a secluded place to leave their belongings near the cenote. 

I would recommend not bringing any valuable items with you and you’ll just have to do your best to keep an eye on your belongings while you’re in the water. 

Cenotes are protected areas and it’s very important to abide by the rules of each cenote. 

There is usually a list of rules (in both English and Spanish) posted at the cenote entrance. 

The cardinal rule of visiting cenotes is that sunscreen is NOT permitted .  This includes both regular sunscreen and biodegradable sunscreen.

Most cenotes will require you to shower before entering the cenote to remove any sunscreen or harmful contaminants.

So if you’re visiting a cenote that doesn’t have a lot of shade, you’re definitely going to need to wear a rash guard to avoid a sunburn.

Some other rules I have seen posted include:

• No food and beverage
• No glass containers

What to Bring to Playa del Carmen Cenotes

There are a few things you most definitely want to bring with you when you visit a cenote and a few things that are nice to have. 

🦶🏻❗️ I never go to a cenote without water shoes as the ground both inside and outside of the water is usually very rocky and extremely painful for your feet.  Trust me it is not fun!

These are the must-have items when visiting a cenote:

✅ Water Shoes

✅ Beach Towel

Nice-to-haves

These items are nice-to-have and will make your experience more enjoyable:

✅ Waterproof Camera

✅ Snorkel Gear

✅ Rash Guard

How to Get to Playa del Carmen Cenotes

These are the best ways to get to the cenotes Playa del Carmen has:

The easiest way to visit the cenotes near Playa del Carmen and Tulum is by driving or renting a car . 

Many of the cenotes are located right off the main highway 307, but for those that are further inland, you will definitely need a car to get to the cenote entrance. 

You could also take a taxi but it will be more expensive and may be difficult to flag one down for the return trip.

For rental cars in Playa del Carmen , I recommend using Discover Cars , where you can see deals from both Mexican and international rental car companies and compare reviews.

↳ Search for rental cars on Discover Cars here !

Cenote Parking

Most cenotes do have a dedicated parking lot for cenote visitors and it is usually free. 

I would recommend getting there early to get a better spot closer to the cenote entrance.

By Public Transportation

If you don’t have a car, cenotes can also be visited by taking a colectivo (shared van) from downtown Playa del Carmen.

For any cenotes south of Playa del Carmen, you’ll want to get on a colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum .

The main bus depot for Tulum colectivos is located near the Chedraui grocery store and Highway 307 (📍 Google Maps Location ).

Tell the driver where you’re going and they’ll stop at the entrance on the side of the highway.  The price should be less than $100 pesos (~$5 USD) each way and you’ll pay upon exiting. 

Visiting Playa del Carmen Cenotes: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cenotes in Playa del Carmen:

Cenote Eden is the best cenote in Playa del Carmen for cliff jumping, offering a large tree branch to jump from, as well as smaller jumping ledges.

The least crowded cenote near Playa del Carmen is Yax-Kin, which is less-well known and typically has fewer crowds.

Yes, you can visit many public cenotes in Playa del Carmen without a tour. You’ll just need to pay an entrance fee, which grants you access to the cenote and may include a life jacket or other amenities.

Yes, you can still go in cenotes if you can’t swim as most cenotes offer life jacket rentals. Plus, some cenotes have shallower areas where you can stand in the water.

Sunscreen is prohibited in cenotes because it can contain harmful chemicals and contaminants that can be damaging to the natural eco-system of cenotes.

Yes, water shoes are essential for visiting cenotes as the ground can be extremely rocky and painful to your feet.

Conclusion: Playa del Carmen Cenotes Guide

I hope this best cenotes Playa del Carmen guide was helpful and you get to experience some of these truly amazing freshwater cenotes! 

Visiting a cenote is one of my favorite things to do in Riviera Maya and so unique that it shouldn’t be missed!

My top pick for the best cenote near Playa del Carmen is Cenote Eden , which is less than 30 minutes away and offers a large open pool for cliff jumping, swimming, and snorkeling.

And if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of getting to these cenotes in Playa del Carmen on your own, I highly recommend booking the Xenotes tour !

This is an all-inclusive cenotes tour, where you can visit 4 private cenotes in one day and all transportation and meals are included.

But no matter where you end up, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring these totally unique natural wonders near Playa del Carmen!

• 15 Best Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours
• How to Visit Cenote Eden Playa del Carmen
• How to Visit Cenote Azul Playa del Carmen

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

7 Best Cenote Tours from Playa Del Carmen [2024 update]

LOOKING FOR THE MOST AMAZING PLAYA DEL CARMEN CENOTE TOURS?

If you’re planning a trip to Playa del Carmen, you can’t miss out on visiting some of the nearby cenotes. These natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water are not just great for a swim, but they’re also a fascinating part of the Yucatán Peninsula’s landscape and history.

After spending 6 months in Playa del Carmen, I’ve discovered the best cenote tours in the area. Whether you’re an adventure junkie or looking for a tranquil escape, these unique cenote tours in Playa del Carmen have something for everyone.

Let me show you the 7 best cenote tours from Playa del Carman.

7 Best Playa Del Carmen Cenote Tours

1. exploring hidden cenotes at playa del carmen.

5/5 star rating ★★★★★ | 🕒 Tour Duration: 4 Hours | 💵 Check Prices and Book Tour

What is included:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Use of helmet and flashlight
• Use of water shoes
• Bottled water
• Coffee and/or tea

The Hidden Cenotes tour in Playa del Carmen, and it was an experience that won’t be forgotten. The tour kicks off with a local guide who takes you to a hidden half-cave cenote. This place felt like a secret treasure, far removed from the crowded tourist spots. Surrounded by the dense jungle, the cenote is a vibe that made me feel deeply connected to nature. Swimming in its crystal-clear waters was pure bliss. It felt like a hidden sanctuary, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

The adventure didn’t stop there. We ventured to an underground river system, known to be the longest. The guide shared fascinating insights about the natural and cultural significance of these waters, making the experience even more enriching. Equipped with helmets and flashlights, we explored the mesmerizing cave formations. Snorkeling in the river was a highlight. The water was incredibly clear, revealing an underwater wonderland. To top it off, the guides provided free photos, capturing the unforgettable moments. This Playa del Carmen cenote tour is a must for anyone looking to explore the hidden gems of Playa del Carmen.

2. Río Secreto Tour from Playa del Carmen

• Access to the Natural Reserve
• Specialized guide
• Lockers, wetsuit, life jacket, helmet with lamp, and towels
• Roundtrip transportation
• Buffet-style food and non-alcoholic beverages

The Río Secreto Tour in Playa del Carmen was magical. This Playa del Carmen cenote tour takes you into one of Mexico’s most stunning natural reserves, celebrated for its connection to ancient Mayan history. Equipped with a headlamp, we ventured into the semi-flooded cave system, walking and swimming through shimmering caverns and pools. The beauty of the sparkling stalactites and stalagmites left me in awe. The journey through these dark, mystical caves felt like stepping back in time to the age of the Maya, with every corner revealing more of the underground wonderland.

After the thrilling underground trek, we emerged from the caves to be greeted with a delicious, authentic Mayan lunch. The buffet featured regional specialties that were both hearty and flavorful, offering a perfect end to the adventurous day. Hiking through the jungle trails and swimming in the serene, dark caves was an exhilarating mix of adventure and nature. The specialized guide shared captivating stories and facts about the ancient Mayans, enhancing the entire experience. If you’re looking to dive deep into Mayan history while enjoying an adventurous day, the Río Secreto Tour in Playa del Carmen is an absolute must.

3. 4×1 Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen

5/5 star rating ★★★★★ | 🕒 Tour Duration: 11 Hours | 💵 Check Prices and Book Tour

The 4×1 Tulum Coba Cenote and Playa del Carmen tour was a whirlwind adventure that packed so much into one day. As a first-time visitor, I found this tour to be an ideal introduction to the wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula. We started our journey by exploring the breathtaking Mayan ruins of Tulum, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The guide provided fascinating insights into the history and culture of the ancient Mayans, making the site come alive. After soaking in the beauty and history of Tulum, we headed to the Coba ruins, where we had the opportunity to climb the towering pyramid and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.

After exploring these incredible historical sites, we cooled off with a swim in a sacred cenote. The water was refreshingly cool and crystal clear, offering a perfect respite from the heat. The tour concluded with some time back in Playa del Carmen, allowing us to explore the town at our own pace. The included lunch was delicious and provided a taste of local flavors. The air-conditioned vehicle ensured a comfortable journey throughout, and the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm added immense value to the experience.

4. Hidden Cenote Exploration

5/5 star rating ★★★★★ | 🕒 Tour Duration: 5 Hours | 💵 Check Prices and Book Tour

• All fees and taxes
• Bathroom, changing rooms
• Helmets and lights

Embarking on the Hidden Cenote Exploration in Playa del Carmen was like stepping into a secret world. The Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its cenotes, but this private tour takes you away from the usual tourist spots. Our adventure began with a walk through an underground cave system, where our knowledgeable guide shared fascinating insights about the geological history and significance of these natural wonders. Equipped with helmets and lights, we navigated through the stunning cave formations.

The highlight of the tour was swimming in the secluded cenote, with its cool, refreshing waters providing a perfect escape from the heat. The tranquility of the environment was unmatched, offering a serene and intimate experience that’s hard to find at the more popular cenotes. After our swim, we enjoyed a delicious local meal cooked on-site, adding a delightful culinary touch to the adventure. The air-conditioned vehicle ensured a comfortable journey, and the provided snorkeling equipment allowed us to fully explore the underwater beauty of the cenote. This private tour is perfect for those seeking a personalized and off-the-beaten-path adventure in Playa del Carmen.

5. Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Cave Tour from Playa Del Carmen

5/5 star rating ★★★★★ | 🕒 Tour Duration: 8 Hours | 💵 Check Prices and Book Tour

• Bilingual guide
• Round transportation with AC
• Equipment required for water activities
• Drinks: bottled water

The Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote, and Cave Tour from Playa Del Carmen is an incredible way to experience the best of the Riviera Maya in just one day. Our journey started with a visit to the Tulum archaeological site, where the ancient Mayan ruins overlook the stunning Caribbean Sea. The guide was excellent, sharing fascinating details about Mayan culture and the significance of the ruins. Walking through this historical site with the turquoise sea in the background was truly breathtaking.

Next, we geared up for snorkeling in the coral reefs of the Caribbean Sea. The underwater world was teeming with colorful fish and marine life, making it a great snorkeling experience. Afterward, we headed to a beautiful cenote, where we swam in the crystal-clear waters and explored the cave formations. The cool, refreshing water was the perfect way to relax after the day’s adventures. The tour also included a hearty lunch featuring delicious fajitas and Yucatan BBQ pork, which was a delightful treat. This tour is perfect for those wanting to pack a lot of adventure and culture into a single day in Playa del Carmen.

6. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

5/5 star rating ★★★★★ | 🕒 Tour Duration: 12 Hours | 💵 Check Prices and Book Tour

• Hotel pick-up from Cancun and Riviera Maya or meeting point (depends on option selected)
• Certified bilingual tour guide during all journey
• Visit to an amazing Mayan cenote (sinkhole)
• Entry/admission to cenote and access to restrooms and dressing rooms
• Special area reserved for the buffet meal
• 30-minute stop at Valladolid main square
• Entry/admission to Chichen Itza archaeological zone (only in All Inclusive option)
• A non-alcoholic beverage (only in All Inclusive option)

The Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour was an incredible journey through the rich history and natural beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula. Our adventure began with a comfortable pick-up from our hotel in Playa del Carmen, and we were soon on our way to the magnificent Chichen Itza. Walking through this ancient Mayan city, I was in awe of the pyramid of Kukulcan and its intricate architecture. Our bilingual guide shared captivating stories and insights about the Mayan civilization, making the visit even more enriching.

After exploring Chichen Itza, we headed to a nearby cenote. The cool, clear waters were a refreshing break from the heat, and swimming in this natural sinkhole felt rejuvenating. The cenote visit included access to clean restrooms and dressing rooms, making it a comfortable experience. We then enjoyed a delicious buffet meal with a variety of local dishes, reserved in a special area for our group. The tour concluded with a stop in the charming town of Valladolid, where we had time to stroll through the main square, take photos, and shop for souvenirs. This cenote tour in Playa del Carmen is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the Yucatan Peninsula, while also enjoying some of its natural beauty.

7. Explore Tulum, Cenote Mariposa & Playa del Carmen Tour

5/5 star rating ★★★★★ | 🕒 Tour Duration: 10 Hours | 💵 Check Prices and Book Tour

The Tulum, Cenote Mariposa & Playa del Carmen Tour was a fantastic way to dive into the region’s history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Our day began with a visit to the ancient walled city of Tulum. Walking through the ruins, perched on a cliff overlooking the stunning Caribbean Sea, was like stepping back in time. The guide shared fascinating insights into the Mayan culture and the significance of Tulum’s structures, making the experience deeply enriching. The views were breathtaking, and I could easily see why Tulum is one of the most iconic Mayan sites.

After soaking in the history, we headed to Cenote Mariposa to cool off. Swimming in the crystalline waters of this beautiful cenote was incredibly refreshing and invigorating. It was the perfect way to recharge after exploring the ruins. Following our swim, we enjoyed an exquisite buffet meal that featured a variety of delicious local dishes. As the day turned to evening, we visited the famous Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen. Strolling along this bustling street, with its numerous shops and vibrant atmosphere, was a great way to end the tour. This tour offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and culture, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Playa del Carmen.

What Other Tours are Available from Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen offers a wide range of tours beyond cenote adventures. Some exciting options include ATV tours, reef snorkeling tours, and ruins tours that let you dive deep into the region’s history and natural beauty. If you’re looking for more thrills, you can try ziplining, horseback riding, or even diving with whale sharks. For a more relaxed experience, consider luxury sailing tours or a jungle buggy tour. There are countless adventures waiting for you.

To explore a full list of available tours, you can visit Viator here . Booking these tours online will generally be cheaper than booking them in person in Playa del Carmen, so it’s a great way to save some money while planning your trip.

Interesting Facts About Cenotes in the Area

• Sacred Mayan Sites : Cenotes were considered sacred by the ancient Mayans, who believed they were portals to the underworld and used them for rituals and sacrifices.
• Natural Filtration : The water in cenotes is incredibly clear because it is filtered through the surrounding limestone, providing excellent visibility for swimming and snorkeling.
• Vast Networks : The Yucatán Peninsula is home to over 6,000 cenotes, many of which are interconnected through extensive underground river systems.
• Unique Ecosystems : Cenotes host unique ecosystems with species of fish, plants, and other organisms that have adapted to the specific conditions of these environments.
• Historical Artifacts : Many cenotes have been found to contain ancient artifacts, pottery, and even human remains, providing valuable insights into Mayan history and culture.
• Geological Wonders : Cenotes are formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, creating natural sinkholes that can be open, partially open, or completely underground.
• Diverse Types : There are several types of cenotes, including open-air cenotes, cave cenotes, and underground cenotes, each offering a different kind of adventure and beauty.
• Freshwater Sources : Cenotes are a crucial source of freshwater in the Yucatán Peninsula, historically providing water for the Mayan civilization and continuing to be important today.
• Diving Destinations : Many cenotes are popular spots for cave diving, attracting divers from around the world to explore their depths and underwater formations.
• Tourist Attractions : Cenotes tours in Playa del Carmen are now major tourist attractions, offering unique swimming, snorkeling, and diving experiences amidst stunning natural beauty and rich historical significance.

FAQs: Playa Del Carmen Cenote Tours

How many cenotes in playa del carmen.

While Playa del Carmen itself doesn’t have cenotes within the city, the surrounding Yucatán Peninsula is home to over 6,000 cenotes. These range from open pools to hidden caves. Many are a short drive away, making Playa del Carmen a perfect base for your cenote adventures. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil swim or a thrilling cave dive, Playa del Carmen cenote tours offer something for everyone.

Do you need a tour guide for cenotes in Playa del Carmen?

While not mandatory, having a tour guide can enhance your cenote experience. Guides provide insights into the history, geology, and cultural significance of cenotes. They also know the best and safest spots for swimming and exploring. A guide can make your cenote tour in Playa del Carmen safer and more informative, turning a good trip into an unforgettable adventure.

How much is a cenote tour in Playa del Carmen?

Cenote tours in Playa del Carmen generally cost between $50 and $150 per person, depending on the length of the tour and included activities. Lower-priced tours might offer a single cenote visit, while higher-priced options often include multiple cenotes, guided exploration, snorkeling equipment, and meals. Some tours also combine cenote visits with other attractions like Mayan ruins or reef snorkeling.

Where can I book the cheapest tours in Playa del Carmen?

For the best deals on Playa del Carmen cenote tours, booking online is often the cheapest option. Viator is widely trusted, offers the cheapest prices and provides the most tours available. Booking in advance online saves money and ensures you secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Can I rent a car and visit the cenotes in Playa del Carmen myself?

Yes, renting a car is a great way to explore the cenotes around Playa del Carmen at your own pace. Many cenotes are off the beaten path, and having a car allows you to visit multiple sites in one day. Renting a car is straightforward, with many agencies offering competitive rates. This option gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, making your Playa del Carmen cenote tour more personalized.

Conclusion: Playa Del Carmen Cenote Tours

Exploring the cenotes around Playa del Carmen is a must-do for any traveler. These natural wonders offer a unique blend of adventure, history, and tranquility. Whether you’re swimming in hidden cenotes, diving into underground rivers, or combining your visit with a tour of ancient Mayan ruins, there’s a cenote tour to suit every interest.

With knowledgeable guides, a variety of tour options, and the flexibility to explore on your own, Playa del Carmen cenote tours provide unforgettable experiences that highlight the beauty and mystery of the Yucatán Peninsula. Don’t miss the chance to discover these incredible natural treasures on your next visit.

You might also be interested in: ➣  Exploring Cozumel Cenotes [2024 Updated Guide]

The Nomad Hive contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of the links above, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we use and trust. Read our disclaimer for more information.

The 12 Best Cenotes in Playa del Carmen

My list of the top cenotes in playa del carmen.

If you’re planning to visit Playa del Carmen on your Mexico trip, you don’t want to miss the beautiful cenotes located nearby.

They are some of the most amazing sights you’ll see!

And you will for sure love snorkeling, diving, or swimming in these natural pools with your family, partner, or friends.

Near Playa del Carmen, there are cenotes for every taste and preference: it can thus be hard to choose one as there are literally thousands of them!

That’s why I’ve made you this list of the best cenotes in Playa del Carmen.

In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need to visit the cenotes and all my best tips to make the most of your experience.

What is the best cenote in Playa del Carmen?

1. cenote azul, 2. cenote chaak tun, 3. cenote chac mool, 4. cenote tajma-ha, 5. gran cenote, 6. cenote cristalino, 7. cenote nohoch nah chich, 8. aktun chen, 9. rio secreto, 10. jardin del eden, 11. taak bi ha cenote, 12. chikin há natural park, book the cenotes tour, tourist map of cenotes, other cenotes in mexico, my advice to visit the cenotes of playa del carmen, rent a car in playa del carmen, where to sleep in playa del carmen, find your flight at the best price, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

If you’re in a hurry and can’t read the full article, which I highly suggest you do to learn about all the amazing cenotes in Playa del Carmen, here are my top choices:

The best cenote for families : Cenote Azul

If you’re traveling to Mexico with kids , you want a cenote that is safe and fun for them. Cenote Azul is perfect for that, because it has clear and shallow water (or deeper areas for swimming), life jackets for rent, and amenities (lockers, restrooms, picnic tables). It’s also close to Playa del Carmen, so you don’t have to drive too far.

The best cenote to dive : Chaac Mool for beginners, Nohoch for more advanced divers

If you’re into diving, you’ll love the cenotes that offer stunning underwater scenery. Chaac Mool is a good option for beginners, because it’s spacious and not too deep (about 40 ft). You can see stalactites, stalagmites, and light beams.

Nohoch is more challenging for experienced divers, because it has narrow tunnels and caves that require skill and confidence. You can explore the hidden wonders of the underground world.

The least touristy cenote : I would say Nohoch , but it’s tricky because Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya are very popular destinations.

If you want to avoid crowds, you can go early in the morning, before the tour buses arrive. You can skip weekends, when the locals also visit the cenotes. Or you can head to the Cenotes of Valladolid or Merida , which are usually less crowded 😉

Cenote Azul is a great choice for family fun in Playa del Carmen . It’s a large cenote with clear water and shallow areas for kids. You can relax on the dock, the rocks, or the picnic area, where you can bring your own food and drinks. There’s also a platform where you can jump into the water from 13ft high.

The cenote has an open area with gorgeous greenery and a covered area for some shade. It’s also close to Cenote Cristalino , Cenote Jardin del Eden , and Xpu-Ha beach , which is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya . You can easily spend a few hours exploring this amazing area!

• Entrance fee 150 pesos, 100 pesos for children 7 years old and younger
• Snorkeling equipment 70 pesos, life vests 40 pesos
• Open from 8h to 18h

Cenote Chaak Tun is a must-see cenote in Playa del Carmen for many reasons.

First of all, it’s the only cenote that’s right in the heart of Playa del Carmen , just 10 minutes away from downtown. Plus, it’s one of the most stunning caves in the Riviera Maya!

You can take a 2.5-hour guided tour that will show you two flooded caves and one dry cave : Pixan, Xibalba, and Aluxes.

You’ll get to snorkel in the crystal-clear water and explore the caves with a flashlight. You’ll be amazed by the sight of stalactites, stalagmites, fish, and ceramic offerings.

But that’s not all. You’ll also be part of a bigger adventure, as Chaak Tun is connected to Sac Actun , the largest flooded cave system in the world . 🤩

• A guided tour is mandatory , for conservation and safety reasons.
• Entrance fee 850 pesos for foreigners, 600 pesos for nationals, 500 for Quintana Roo residents
• Chaak Tun website

Chac Mool is a beautiful cenote in Playa del Carmen for diving lovers.

You don’t need a lot of experience to dive here, but you do need a certification (open water or equivalent). You don’t need to take a cave diving course , because the area is spacious and the maximum depth is 40 feet.

You’ll be amazed by the stunning caves with roots, stalactites, and stalagmites, as well as the limestone columns and the turquoise water. The visibility is excellent and the light rays create a magical effect.

The cenote has two entrances: the main one and another one called “Little Brother” . They both lead to the same caverns. The first one is large and bright, and the second one is full of stalactites of different sizes. There’s also a natural dome where you can surface and see the roots and rocks.

Another thing you can observe here is a phenomenon called halocline : when salt water and fresh water meet but don’t mix because of their density difference. It’s quite a sight.

My advice Although Chac Mool is a very interesting cenote in Playa del Carmen for beginner divers , it is important to be careful and follow safety measures.

• Entrance to the cenote 250 pesos (guide and equipment not included)
• Shower, restrooms, dressing rooms and a small restaurant
• Minimum age 12 years old

The cenote of Tajma Ha resembles the Taj Mahal , and that’s not a coincidence. It was originally named after the famous monument, but over the years it changed to Tajma Ha, which means “water” in Mayan.

It’s one of the best cenotes to dive in Playa del Carmen , but it’s more suitable for advanced divers . You need an open water certificate to access the cave entrance, but you also need some experience to navigate the tunnels without getting stuck.

The dive lasts about 50 minutes to an hour , and the maximum depth is 50 feet. You’ll be amazed by the underwater cave, where you can see fossils, stalactites, stalagmites, and a thick halocline.

• The entrance fee is 250 pesos
• It’s open from 10 am to 6 pm
• It’s 19 miles south of Playa del Carmen, on Highway 307. You have to drive one mile on a dirt road from the main road to get to the entrance.

My advice You can also go to Tajma-Ha just for swimming and snorkeling, but the surface is quite small.

The Gran Cenote is a popular spot for everyone:

• Families , because it has supervision, facilities, and a big picnic area
• Those who want to swim and snorkel easily in clear water (with turtles!)
• Advanced divers , because it connects to Sac Actun, the largest underwater cave system in the world
• Travelers who want to see a lot in one day, because it’s strategically located near Tulum , Coba, and other cenotes

The cenote has two parts: an outdoor part and an enclosed part that you can reach through a 65ft tunnel. The enclosed part is under a rock wall and the water is crystal clear!

It’s a beautiful cenote but it can get crowded, so it’s better to get there before 10 am 😉

• The entrance fee is 500 pesos, locker is 30 pesos, snorkeling equipment is 80 pesos
• It’s open from 8 am to 4 pm

My advice For a complete experience, you can take this guided bike tour of Tulum that includes the Gran Cenote, the Cenote Escondido, the Cenote Cristal , and brunch! Book it here:

Cenote Cristalino is a perfect cenote for families and friends who want to have a fun day in Playa del Carmen. It’s a very popular cenote in the Riviera Maya because of its beauty and easy access. It’s very close to the main road, so you can also get there by public transportation.

You don’t have to worry about crowds, because the cenote has different areas and a small cave where you can swim and snorkel at your own pace. But if you want more peace and quiet, it’s better to get there before 10 am.

Another bonus is that it’s next to Jardín del Edén and Cenote Azul , which are also some of the most beautiful cenotes in Playa del Carmen . And the beach is nearby too… so you can make a whole day out of it!

• The entrance fee is 200 pesos, 150 pesos for locals and kids under 11
• It’s open from 8 am to 6 pm every day
• By car, take the Federal Highway to Tulum. The cenote is 2 miles after Puerto Aventuras. There’s free parking.
• By public transportation: take a colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum (at the corner of Carretera Federal and Juarez) for 70 pesos round trip.
• You can bring your own food, because there’s no food for sale on site

The Nohoch cenote is a hidden gem for experienced divers, but not many people know about it. It’s huge: it’s 6 miles long, has 36 entrances, and connects to Sac Actun , the largest underground cave system in the world.

You don’t have a diving certificate? No problem. You can still enjoy the cenote in other ways. You can swim, snorkel in the crystal-clear water, rappel down to 40 feet, or jump on a zip line. You’ll see incredible underwater tunnels and rock formations.

The cenote is also surrounded by a beautiful jungle with many birds. It’s a great place to relax and connect with nature.

• The entrance fee is 300 pesos, or 800 pesos for the snorkel, rappel, and zip line package
• It’s open from 8 am to 5 pm
• It’s 55 minutes from Playa del Carmen, very close to Tulum (after Akumal )
• It’s not very crowded, but sometimes you’ll see small groups of divers. It’s even quieter after 2 pm.

Aktun Chen is a cenote you should visit in Playa del Carmen . It’s in an ecological park that has several cenotes where you can snorkel, as well as an underground river, 10 zip lines, and a 1,970 ft long cave full of stalactites and stalagmites.

The guided tour is one of the 10 Best Underground Tours in the World, according to National Geographic , and it’s great for the whole family.

• It’s open from 9 am to 5:30 pm, but the last entry is at 4 pm (I recommend you get there by 3:30 pm to have enough time)
• It’s about 2.5 miles from the main road on a dirt road, plus another mile to the cenote. If you don’t have a car, let them know at the entrance and they’ll provide a shuttle.
• The on-site restaurant offers delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
• Aktun Chen website

I love Rio Secreto so much that I had to include it in the list of cenotes to visit in the Playa del Carmen area .

It also won the award for the best nature reserve in Mexico and Central America at the World Travel Awards 😎

You will follow a guide who will provide you with a helmet with a flashlight, a wetsuit, water shoes, and a life jacket.

The tour takes 1.5 hours and you’ll explore 1,970 ft of caves and underground rivers with clear water where you can swim.

The place is beautiful, clean, well-organized, and safe. I recommend it for couples and families alike (but maybe not for very young kids).

Rio Secreto or Aktun Chen? It’s true that Rio Secreto and Aktun Chen are somewhat similar, so you don’t need to do both.

Personally, I prefer Rio Secreto because it feels more authentic. I feel like an adventurer and the guides share really fascinating information (without rushing).

You can book your tickets to Rio Secreto with lunch included. You can also choose to have pick-up at your hotel if you want. Book it here:

Jardín del Edén , also known as Cenote Ponderosa , is one of the most beautiful cenotes in Playa del Carmen . It’s only 20 minutes away from downtown.

It’s an open-air cenote, surrounded by lovely plants and some iguanas. The water is clear and you’ll feel some small fish nibbling your feet to get rid of dead skin. 😆

It’s one of the biggest cenotes in the Riviera Maya , so you’ll have plenty of room to swim even on Sundays, when it’s more crowded. It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. There are different ways to get into the water, including jumping platforms. There are also shaded areas where you can rest.

You can also snorkel from the entrance of Cenote El Eden to Cenote Coral (it takes about an hour). You’ll see many roots, fossils, and even some Mayan pottery.

• The entrance fee is 200 pesos, 100 pesos for kids under 12, and 25 pesos for a life jacket
• It’s open from 7 am to 5 pm, but it’s closed on Saturdays

Hidden in Dos Ojos Park , Cenote Taak Bi Ha (or Tak Be Ha) is a treasure waiting to be discovered. The park has other cenotes as well, such as the famous Cenote Dos Ojos .

Cenote Dos Ojos is a stunning and family-friendly cenote, but it also attracts many tourists in the Riviera Maya.

That’s why I want to share with you Cenote Taak Bi Ha, which is not very popular… and I kind of prefer it that way! 😉

It’s an underground cave that you can reach by stairs. The water is shallow, clear, and gorgeous. You’ll see roots and many stalactites.

You can have fun on your own in the main area, or take a diving tour with a guide, equipment, and a diving lamp.

You can also snorkel if you want to explore the underground passages of the cenote.

And here’s a bonus point: the cenote is owned and managed by a Mayan family ❤️

• The entrance fee is 400 pesos (with a life jacket) or 500 pesos for the snorkeling tour
• It’s open from 8 am to 6 pm
• It’s 50 minutes from Playa del Carmen: take the 307 Chetumal- Cancun highway towards Tulum until you see the sign for Dos Ojos Park. Then drive 2 miles on a dirt road to get there.

Last but not least, I want to tell you about Chikin Ha , one of the cenotes you must see in Playa del Carmen 😉

It’s an ecological park that has not one, but three cenotes in one place! It’s only 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen .

You’ll love this cozy place where you can swim in the clear water of the Chikin Ha and X’Tabay cenotes . You can also explore the ceremonial cenote of Taak Bil Ha , which has a magical vibe.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try zip lining, jungle biking, and have lunch on site (the tacos are delicious!). You can choose different packages depending on what you want to do.

This is a perfect activity for the whole family in Playa del Carmen . You can do it in half a day and have a blast.

• The entrance fee is 350 pesos (free for kids under 5) and it includes the three cenotes
• The complete tour (2 hours) is 700 pesos. It includes a Mayan ceremony, a guided visit to three cenotes and one cave, a bicycle, a zip line, snorkel equipment, and lunch
• The snorkel equipment is 50 pesos
• You have to pay a 50-peso deposit for a locker (you’ll get it back at the end)
• Facebook page

Pd: if you like to dive, there is also a section to dive in a cave, as long as you have the advanced diving certification.

Don’t waste time choosing between cenotes, when you can visit four of them in one day with this amazing tour!

You’ll enjoy a hassle-free pick-up from your hotel , and a variety of activities (kayaking, snorkeling, etc.) in each cenote. You’ll also get a light breakfast, snacks, and a delicious lunch with beer and wine 😉

This is the perfect opportunity to explore the beauty and diversity of the cenotes in Playa del Carmen. Book your spot here:

Here are the Best Cenotes in Playa del Carmen mentioned in the article:

There are thousands of cenotes in Mexico! Here are the other cenotes by region:

• Best Cenotes in Mexico
• Best Cenotes in Yucatan (Peninsula)
• Best Cenotes in Tulum
• Best Cenotes Near Cancun
• The 21 Best Cenotes to See in Valladolid

To protect the environment and enjoy your cenote visit, you should follow these tips:

• Do not use sunscreen or mosquito repellent (even biodegradable ones) when you go to a cenote. They are very harmful to the ecosystem!
• Always shower before entering the water. It’s a good practice to do even if they don’t ask you to. ❤️
• Bring your own mask and snorkel if you can. You can save money by buying them at Walmart or Soriana, for example. Some cenotes offer rentals.
• Wear aquashoes (water shoes). They are much more comfortable than going barefoot!
• Try to arrive early in the morning (from opening until 11 am) to avoid the crowds. And avoid going on weekends , if possible.
• Leave your valuables at home or in your hotel, because not all cenotes have lockers.
• Bring enough cash , because they don’t accept cards and there are no ATMs nearby.
• Bring a waterproof cell phone case to take pictures underwater and a small diving flashlight to see better.

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Playa del Carmen and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

• Che Playa Hostel & Bar Adults Only : great hostel to meet other travelers and party , with a rooftop terrace that has a bar and a small pool, with several offered activities . Clean, with good wifi and a great welcome. From only 13 $usd for the dormitory or 37 $usd for a private room!
• Hotel Lunata : a charming hotel with hacienda style decoration, which is hidden on Quinta Avenida, very close to the beach . Quiet, with a garden, rooms with balcony, and has very friendly service. From only 82 $usd per night!
• Porto Playa Condo Beach Club : here you will find a spacious apartment ideal for a family , with fully equipped kitchen, living room and terrace. The hotel has a large swimming pool , a gym and a restaurant, starting at 172 $usd per night!
• The Reef Playacar Resort & Spa : located on the beautiful beach of Playacar , just a few minutes from Fifth Avenue . Ideal for a romantic stay , with a beautiful tropical garden, two pools, a gym and a spa. 200 $usd with the “all inclusive” formula.
• Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive: it is definitely the best hotel in Playa del Carmen! Ideal for couples and families with children as this luxury hotel offers an exceptional package including meals and access to its parks (Xcaret, Xplor , Xplor Fuego, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xel-Ha and Xenote). Starting at 860 $usd per night, all inclusive.

Playa del Carmen does not have its own airport, so you will need to fly to Cancún first .

This is a major airport that connects with many destinations in Europe and North America, such as Air Transat, Air Canada, Iberia, Aeromexico, Interjet, KLM, and more. You should have no problem finding tickets for your preferred dates.

To get the best deals on flights to Cancun and other domestic flights in Mexico, you can use our flight comparison tool in collaboration with Skyscanner. It will help you save money and time!

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Playa del Carmen : Top 30 Things to Do and See!
• Playa del Carmen on a Budget : The Ultimate Tips !
• 1 day in Playa del Carmen   – the best 24h itinerary
• 2 days in Playa del Carmen  – An Epic Itinerary
• 3 days in Playa del Carmen – What to Do, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay
• Playa del Carmen: 19 restaurants and street food for all budgets
• Xplor Park: The Definitive Guide
• Yucatan Peninsula : Top 20 things to Do and See
• Cancun : the 35 Best Things to Discover
• Tulum: 21 Best Things to Do + All My Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City , Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

Related Stories

One Day in Holbox: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Where to Stay in Tulum? The best areas and places to stay

Tulum’s Best Restaurants: A Food Lover’s Guide for Every Wallet

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• All our Guides about Mexico

As  full-time digital nomads , we’re travel experts . Follow us for travel tips!

Our Offbeat Life contains affiliate links & participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program & other affiliate programs. If you buy something using an Amazon or other link, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure for more details.

17 Best Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen + Secret Tours (2024)

One of the most popular and unique activities to try when visiting the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico is swimming in a cenote. But how do you choose the best cenotes near Playa del Carmen to visit?

It’s not possible to visit all of them. However, there are a lot of amazing cenotes!

We got to see several really cool ones, like Cenote Suytun, on our trips to see the Mayan ruins at Coba and at Chichen Itza . Those are pretty far from Playa del Carmen for a quick trip, though.

Fun Facts: There are over 30,000 cenotes in Mexico. Just in the states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, there are over 3,000 cenotes.

Many cenotes are located an hour or less from the town where we lived for nine months, Playa del Carmen .

So how do you know which ones are worth your time? We worked with some other amazing travel bloggers to compile a list of the best cenotes near Playa del Carmen!

All The Best Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen

From Cancun to Tulum, there are hundreds of cenotes within an hour’s drive of Playa del Carmen. That’s one of the many reasons that Playa del Carmen is an excellent base for your Rivera Maya travels.

Although the waterpark resorts in Cancun are also a good base.

There isn’t really a *best* cenote near Playa del Carmen, since each one has different things to offer. So we list all the favorites , in alphabetical order.

But first…do you know what a cenote is?

What is a Cenote?

Cenotes are basically natural, deep-water sinkholes that are rain-fed and connected by a series of underground rivers. These rivers flow throughout the Yucatan peninsula.

Cenotes are very beautiful, often sheltered by jungle, and usually have a water temperature of about 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re incredibly refreshing to swim in!

Each cenote has a different look and vibe. You’ll never find two cenotes that are alike! Cenotes are categorized by how much coverage they have from the sun.

There are open, semi-open, and closed cenotes. What many people don’t know is that each cenote type also tells you how old the cenote is.

Closed Cenotes

Also known as cave cenotes or cavern cenotes, these cenotes are the youngest cenotes. We know this because they still have fully formed ceilings that give them a bit of a spooky vibe.

Often these cenotes can only be accessed by stairs down into a hole in the ground.

Closed cenotes can be a little intimidating for smaller kids, especially because they often need artificial lights to see down in the dark interior. However, once you get them inside they have a lot of fun!

The wooden stairs down into the cenote almost always have a platform at the bottom. You can either take more stairs into the water or jump from the platform. We enjoyed spending time at several closed cenotes on a day trip from Merida in 2022.

Semi-Open Cenotes

This type of cenote is sometimes called a partial cave cenote. They are middle-aged because part of their ceilings have fallen in but parts are still intact.

These cenotes are a bit brighter than closed cenotes, so you can more easily see the beautiful clear blue waters.

These cenotes are sometimes accessed by stairs and other times you can walk through a short tunnel to get to them. Because they aren’t as dark and can be easier to access, they aren’t as scary or intimidating for the little ones.

Open Cenotes

Open cenotes, in Playa del Carmen and elsewhere, are the oldest kind of cenotes. We know they are the oldest because their ceilings have fully collapsed. This leaves the entire sinkhole swimming area open to the elements.

It’s easiest to see fish and other aquatic life in open cenotes. Open cenotes are also the easiest to access. Thus, these are generally the most popular cenotes to visit.

1. Cenote Azul

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 6 pm ☑️ Cost : 150 pesos for adults 9+ 80 pesos for kids 4-8 Kids 3 and under are free ☑️ Driving Time : 25 minutes

As one of the largest cenotes Playa del Carmen has to offer, Cenote Azul is one of the most popular. It is located just south of the gated community, Puerto Aventuras, and is surrounded by lush green vegetation.

It takes about 25 minutes to get there by car from Playa del Carmen. It’s also easily accessible by colectivo from Playa, as it’s easily visible from the road.

Cenote Azul is across the highway from the mega-resort, Barcelo Maya. This means it gets busy and stays busy throughout the day, pretty much every day.

It also means that it’s a bit easier to pick up a taxi back to Playa del Carmen. If you want peace and quiet in this cenote, go right when they open at 9 am.

Fun Fact : There is also a Cenote Azul in Bacalar and a few others elsewhere in the Yucatan. It seems to be the most popular name for cenotes!

It’s also a really large cenote. So even if you go at 11 am on a Tuesday, like we did, it’ll be busy but you’ll still find some room for your family or group to hang out and enjoy yourselves.

The rocks at Cenote Azul are a bit rough, so water shoes are very helpful here. My favorite part, though, is the “pedicure fish.”

These assertive little things live on the edges of the cenote and love to eat the dead skin off your feet. They are the same breed of fish you often see in fish pedicure spas.

Instead of only getting 15 minutes in the spa, you can choose to spend hours with the fish if you choose. I may have pawned my kid off on my husband and friends’ kids while I got a one-hour pedicure. Don’t judge me. Judge my smooth and lovely feet!

2. Cenote Calavera

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 250 pesos ☑️ Driving Time : 50 minutes

If you’re looking for the most beautiful and Instagram-worthy cenotes in Mexico, look no further than Cenote Calavera. Known as one of the  best cenotes in Tulum, Mexico , you’ll want to arrive early (or late). This is a small cenote, but a very popular one.

Fun Fact: Cenote Calavera translates to “skull cenote” because it looks like a skull from above. There are three holes, or entrances, to this cenote. The two smaller holes are the eyes of the skull, and the larger hole is the mouth.

You can enter any of the three you’d like or all of them! The smaller holes are fun to jump into, as it looks like you’re jumping into an abyss — though, in reality, the water is only a few feet below you.

In the larger hole, you can also jump in or use the ladder to climb in. Once you’re in, there’s a small rope swing to sit on (though it only seats 1-2 people). This is the best spot for photos, and usually the most crowded of the three cenote entrances.

As it’s not a huge cenote where you can spend all day swimming around, you might want to plan to visit a few nearby cenotes on the same day.

Located within 10-15 minutes of Cenote Calavera, you’ll find Cenote Zacil-Ha, Cenote Car Wash, and the popular Gran Cenote. Cenote Calavera, and all the other cenotes just listed, are located off Highway Carretera 109, just north of downtown Tulum.

Contributed by Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo

3. Cenote Car Wash

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 200 pesos ☑️ Driving Time : 55 minutes

Located along the highway to Coba ruins, Cenote Car Wash (also called cenote Aktun Ha) is one of the best cenotes if you are looking to get away from the crowds. 

This small cenote is located just north of Tulum and can be easily reached by taxi from the downtown area in less than 10 minutes.

Although it’s not the closest cenote to Playa del Carmen, it makes for a perfect stop, if you plan a day trip to Tulum from Playa del Carmen.

While cenotes like Gran Cenote , Cenote Calavera, and the most popular cenotes in Dos Ojos Park tend to be busy during the peak hours, Cenote Car Wash remains uncrowded most of the time. 

Today, it’s a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, thanks to a spectacular underwater garden. The original name of the cenote, Aktun Ha, means water cave in the Mayan language. 

Fun Fact : Cenote Car Wash is an open cenote that got its name because people used to wash their cars nearby and used this cenote as a marker to find the place.

But don’t worry, this small cenote is totally safe to visit and swim in. The car wash was closed a long time ago, and the waters here are crystal clear and refreshing. 

Contributed by Daria of The Discovery Nut

4. Cenote Cristalino

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 200 pesos for adults 100 pesos for kids 4-12 Kids 3 and under are free ☑️ Driving Time : 25 minutes

This cenote is just a short walk from Cenote Azul. Cenote Chicken Ha, Cenote Eden, and Cenote Jardin are also nearby. Despite its close proximity to the Barcelo mego resort, it’s not nearly as crowded as Cenote Azul.

However, you won’t have the cenote to yourself unless you go first thing in the morning. It’s definitely gaining popularity.

We preferred Cenote Cristalino to Azul for several reasons. First, in addition to being able to swim there are mangroves and a partially covered cave that make for very good snorkeling.

It’s also just fun to swim through these unique areas. Our friends even found a small cavern just big enough for an adult to climb into.

There’s a jumping ledge, which even allows kids to jump if they are brave enough! Little Man wasn’t but our friends’ kids were.

Make sure your kids know the proper jumping posture. One of our friends’ kiddos didn’t keep his legs together and ended up landing on his bottom. Ouch!

Little Man preferred the swing just above the water. It’s a big tricky to climb onto. However, once you’re up there it’s a lot of fun! Plus the cenote also has the pedicure fish, which I clearly enjoy.

5. Cenote Dos Ojos

☑️ Hours : 8 am – 6 pm ☑️ Cost : 500 pesos for adults ☑️ Driving Time : 54 minutes

One of the most popular cenotes near Tulum , Cenote Dos Ojos is a popular snorkeling and diving cenote located in the Dos Ojos Park. 

Dos Ojos translates as “Two Eyes.” As the name suggests, this cenote is divided into two sections interlinked by an underground system. The first part of the cenote has a shallow area with crystal-clear waters where all diving tours begin. It’s also popular for swimming and snorkeling. 

The second part has less sun and offers a bigger platform from where you can get into the water. It doesn’t have as many people as the first part, but it is also much darker than the first cavern. If you only want to snorkel, you should go to the first part of the cenote.

This is a semi-open cenote, which means it provides a great refresher from the hot and humid Yucatan. When you look up, you will also see plenty of stalactites and stalagmites that are home to bats!

If you want to snorkel and take photos, arrive by the opening time as this is a popular cenote that gets very busy.

👉 I recommend booking a private tour that ensures you arrive before the crowds!

Scuba diving tours at Cenote Dos Ojos can be purchased on-site or online ahead of your visit.  To scuba dive in this cenote, you need to obtain a special certification prior to your visit. 

6. Cenote El Pit

Cenote El Pit is known for its spectacular underwater landscape. It is a fantastic cavern and cave dive site near Tulum . Rainwater filters through the jungle floor to fill cenotes with sparkling clean water and Cenote El Pit is known for excellent visibility.

This truly is a unique cenote experience, not starting with a boat ride, but a jeep ride into the humid jungle. You start by taking little wooden steps through a hole in the jungle floor to a spectacular site with unbelievably clear water. This 10-meter opening leads into the deepest cenote in the State of Quintana Roo (110m).

Family Tip: Divers need an advanced qualification for diving in this cenote, so it is a better excursion for families with older children.

The cenote is well known for images of bright beams of sunlight piercing the water from the mouth of the cave reaching deep down toward the bottom. The dive is truly unique and on the bucket list of many divers.

Early on in the dive descending, you reach an overhung cavern with some beautiful stalactites, further down you descend through a halocline. This is an interesting experience and is visible because of the refraction of light passing through the water layers with different densities.

At about 27m, you dive into a cloud of hydrogen sulfate and swim around some eerie tree branches before starting your ascent.

👉 If you’re into diving, book this tour to dive in both El Pit and Nicte Ha cenotes. It’s well-reviewed and a better deal than the dive shops in Tulum charge just for El Pit.

Contributed by Alya of Stingy Nomads

7. Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote is an absolutely gorgeous cenote. It has clear, turquoise water, otherworldly stalagmites, and plenty of wildlife to observe. 

The admission fee includes a snorkeling set and life jacket rental. But given the cenote’s beautiful surrounding grounds and the cenote itself (both above and below its azure waters), it’s definitely worth a visit.

There are actually two pools to explore here. The main pool has the aforementioned stalactites and stalagmites, some of which span the entire depth of the cenote (about 30 feet!). They create dazzling light beams in the water.

The other cenote, which is connected to the main one through a cave, is much smaller and shallower and perfect for wading around or just cooling off in the refreshing waters.

What really makes this cenote special is the wildlife you can see here. There are tiny turtles, fish, and blue crabs that swim with you through the water.

In the tunnel connecting the two cenotes, don’t forget to look up. There are hundreds of bats hanging upside down, chirping, and flying in and out of the cenote. Don’t worry- they won’t bother you!

👉 You can hire a tour that includes transportation as well as two more cenotes in addition to Gran Cenote.

So whether you pair your visit here with a day trip to Tulum or make the trek just for the cute turtles, Gran Cenote deserves a spot on your Playa del Carmen bucket list.

Contributed by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

8. Cenote Laguna Kaan Luum

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 300 pesos for adults 100 pesos for kids 3-12 Kids under 3 are free ☑️ Driving Time : 60 minutes

You may be wondering, “How is Laguna Kaan Luum a cenote?” Unlike many cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, Laguna Kaan Luum mirrors the appearance of a small lake, with a unique distinction.

The shallow, crystal clear turquoise water around the edges abruptly changes a darker blue in the center. That is where the cenote begins. 

Walk down one of Laguna Kaan Luum’s two piers before jumping into its sparkling warm waters. Bask in the sun in one of the many overwater hammocks available, then swim over to the swings to play.

For an extra 150 pesos, you can even rent paddleboards, snorkels, or kayaks at the reception area.

Before you leave, climb up the wooden lookout platform to get a bird’s eye view of the cenote sitting in the middle of the pristine jungle. 

Safety Note:  The shallow water area is safe and calm. However, avoid crossing the security cord that marks the cenote’s edge, as there are dangerous currents that can pull you to the bottom.

Contributed by Catherine of Nomadicate d

9. Cenote La Noria

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 400 pesos for adults 250 pesos Mexican Nationals and Residents ☑️ Driving Time : 60 minutes

Cenote La Noria is located on La Ruta de los Cenotes near Puerto Morales. Travel by bus or taxi to the cenote is also possible. La Noria is nearby more popular Cenotes Kin Ha and Zapote. Therefore, La Noria tends to be a bit quieter and less touristy.

Note: The entry fee includes a lifejacket, locker, and use of the well-kept grounds with picnic tables and hammocks.

The cenote is in a cavern with stalactites hanging down from the ceiling. Holes in the roof illuminate the gorgeous turquoise clear water to create a stunning scene.

If you get up the courage, you can jump through one of the ceiling holes into the cenote. A stone ramp with stairs into the water is the main entrance to use if you don’t want to jump through the ceiling holes.

A wooden floating platform in the center of the cenote is a great place to hang out and take photos of the beautiful cenote. There is also a swing from the platform for more fun.

An on-site, open-air restaurant is available with typical local food and pizza. This makes La Noria a great all-day excursion so you don’t have to leave to find lunch!

Other adventures offered at La Noria include zip-lining, riding ATVs in the jungle, and horseback riding . That is, if you can tear yourself away from the beautiful cenote. Certainly, La Noria is one of the amazing  outdoor adventures on the Yucatan peninsula .

Contributed By Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

10. Cenote Manati

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 400 pesos for adults ☑️ Driving Time : 45 minutes

Cenote Manati is one of the few cenotes in Mexico that is right by the sea although it’s connected underneath the surface where the water is filtered through the sand and rock into the cenote. 

From an aerial view, it has the shape of a snake making its way into the thick jungle and then fading into mother earth’s womb. 

If you go by public transportation keep in mind that you will have a good mile to walk in the sun before getting to the cenote from the federal highway. So the two more reasonable options would be renting a car or hiring a taxi. 

👉 You can also hire a private tour to this cenote, to completely avoid the crowds.

Cenote Manati is also called Casa Cenote because there was a family of manatees living there. Unfortunately, they have recently disappeared probably because they were disturbed by the usual crowd of tourists that swim in the cenote. 

Right on the opposite side of the road, you will find a dive shop where you pay the entrance fees and you can rent a life jacket and kayaks if you want. 

Pro Tip: Right on the beach opposite the cenote, have lunch at the hotel restaurant and continue the enjoyment on the Caribbean beach. 

There is also the option to dive into the cenote. The dive instructor will take you to explore the beautiful underwater world and you will have the chance to meet Panchito, the friendly crocodiles that live nearby.

He seems to be innocuous but I wouldn’t get too close. You could also snorkel in the cenote or simply take a swim in the soothing water. 

Contributed by Isabella of Lets Travel to Mexico

11. Cenote Naharon

☑️ Hours : 8 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 150 pesos for adults ☑️ Driving Time : 45 minutes

When looking for the best cenotes to visit near Playa del Carmen , you must check out Cenote Naharon. It is also known as Cenote Cristal. Here you will find a natural swimming pool surrounded by luscious palm trees.

You can easily get a colectivo or a taxi to this off-the-beaten-track cenote. If your group is too large, or you are on a modest budget, you will more than likely want to use a colectivo to get from  Playa del Carmen to Tulum  for the most effective transport.

The best thing is that you also get access to Cenote Escondido (perfect for snorkeling or diving) which is right next door. Cenote Naharon is known for having the most pristine waters and you can literally see everything under the surface of the water.

Note: the last entry to both cenotes is at 4 pm, so the earlier you arrive the better.

It is an open cenote so it is perfect for swimming and suitable for kids, or those who are not fully competent swimmers.

You can jump off the ledge into the water and you will find comfort in the guide rope which allows you to pull yourself back to the edge. Try to aim to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Contributed by Dan from Layer Culture

12. Cenote Rio Secreto

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 4 pm ☑️ Cost : 1,625 pesos for adults, 800 pesos for kids Entry fee includes a mandatory wetsuit, helmet, and life vest. ☑️ Driving Time : 15 minutes

Rio Secreto is a totally different type of cenote. It’s actually one of the rivers that connect cenotes to each other. The name translates to Secret River because it’s entirely underground.

Don’t worry, they’ve installed lighting in the caverns so you can still see down there. The river has (literally) thousands of stalactites and stalagmites all around. Photos do not do this cenote justice!

The nice thing is this is one of the closest cenotes to Playa del Carmen. It’s only a 15-minute drive from Centro. It’s very easy to take a colectivo or taxi so it’s great for visitors who don’t have their own car.

The only way to access Rio Secreto is on a pre-booked, guided tour.

👉 You can also book a tour with transportation so you don’t have to worry about navigating taxis or colectivos with kids.

In addition to swimming through the underground cave system, at the end of the tour there is a light and sound show in the Salón de la Paz (aka: Peace Room).

The lighting and sound effects showcase the surface water runoff that has shaped the cave system over thousands of years.

13. Cenote Taak Bi Ha

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 4:30 pm ☑️ Cost : 450 pesos for adults ☑️ Driving Time : 30 minutes

Cenote Taak Bi Ha is one of the most spectacular cave cenotes in the Riviera Maya. Like Cenote Chac Mool, this insta-worthy cenote is a favorite one for divers and photographers alike or simply for all those who love these wonders of nature. 

To get to the cenote you will need to follow the direction to the more popular Dos Ojos Cenote and continue driving on the dirt road for another mile until you will see the sign. 

The cost of this cenote is a lot compared to the others but it’s well worth the money. 

Cenote Taak Bi Ha is suitable for all sorts of swimmers, kids included. You can rent the lifejacket at the entrance for extra security. However, the water is quite shallow in most of its parts. 

Besides diving into the hidden caves, you can swim and relax or you can snorkel around. There is also the opportunity to pay for a guided tour where a local guide will take you snorkeling around some caves that you wouldn’t be able to see otherwise. 

To get there it’s advisable to rent your own car but you can get there by local transportation and get a shuttle from the Cenote Dos Ojos ticket office to the entrance of Taak Bi Ha. 

👉 This private tour includes Cenote Taak Bi Ha, Cenote Lagoon Yal-kul, and another Cenote for a full day of cenote fun! 

Contributed by Isabella from Mexico Cenotes and Ruin s

14. Cenote Tortuga

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 4:30 pm ☑️ Cost : 650 pesos for adults 6+ Kids 5 and under are free ☑️ Driving Time : 60 minutes

This cenote is one of the furthest on the list. Its beauty and proximity to the Coba ruins make it a great addition to a day trip there. Cenote Tortuga is one of the more developed cenotes near Playa del Carmen.

It even has a restaurant and hospedaje (aka: family-run motel) on site. In addition, there is a zip line, but that is an extra cost.

The entry cost includes four separate cenotes. Thus, the price comes out to be about average if you spend time at all four. Two of the cenotes are closed and two are open. So there is something for everyone to enjoy here.

A tour package here saves you time and money as well as hassle, so you don’t have to carry as much cash around with you. Although if you don’t know your plans, don’t worry. You can still eat at the restaurant without pre-booking.

👉 If you know you plan to spend the day there, consider booking a tour that includes round-trip transportation and lunch.

All meals are served buffet-style, with a selection of Mexican and American foods. Even picky kiddos should be able to find something they’re willing to eat.

15. Cenote Verde Lucero

☑️ Hours : 9 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 300 pesos for adults ☑️ Driving Time : 50 minutes

The Cenote Verde Lucero is one of the most popular cenotes near Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The crystal-clear water and striking rock formations make this cenote a must-see for visitors to the area.

Unlike many other cenotes, this one is open-air which means that you also have the warmth of the sun and the golden shimmer on the waters to enjoy.

While you can swim in most cenotes, how many of them have platforms to dive from or zip-lines where you can drop straight into the emerald waters? This one has.

Given its prime location in Puerto Morelos, many of the  Playa Del Carmen Excursions  to the area also include a visit to Cenote Verde Lucero. It’s perfect if you want to relax after ziplining through the rainforest or tackling the muddy jungle trails on an ATV.

Cenote Verde Lucero is great for people of all ages and there are plenty of quirky features that make great family photos. There are also changing rooms, tables, toilets, and snack facilities should you want to make the most of the area.

Contributed by Kerry of Vegg Travel

16. Cenote Yax Kin

☑️ Hours : 10 am – 5 pm ☑️ Cost : 150 pesos for adults ☑️ Driving Time : 55 minutes

Cenote Yax Kin is a family-friendly cenote located in the proximities of Tulum. It is one of the most tranquil cenotes in the Riviera Maya .

The cenote has recently opened and it is managed by a local family which has done an amazing job keeping the premises clean and tidy for the travelers to enjoy. 

The space around the cenote is suitable for you to spend the day. So that not only you can swim in the shallow crystal clear waters but so they can also enjoy the lush vegetation and the peaceful surroundings. 

In fact, you can find sunbeds and chairs if you want to spend the day. There is no restaurant (yet) but you can purchase some snacks and soft drinks or you can bring your own picnic.

Contributed by Isabella of Boundless Roads

17. Cenote Zacil-Ha

☑️ Hours : 10 am – 5:30 pm (opens at 9 am November through March) ☑️ Cost : 200 pesos for adults ☑️ Driving Time : 55 minutes

Cenote Zacil-Ha is one of the best family-friendly cenotes because it has a zipline. It also has a few platforms you can jump off to enter the water, but also ladders if you don’t want to jump in. 

They rent life jackets if someone in your group doesn’t swim, and there are also ropes located just above and below the water that you can grab onto and sit on. A truly uncommon feature, Cenote Zacil-Ha is one of the few that has a lifeguard on duty.

Note : The zipline costs an extra ten pesos, but it’s worth it!

Besides the cenote itself, there are two (manmade) swimming pools, a small restaurant, restrooms, changing rooms, and lockers — so you can easily spend a few hours at Cenote Zacil-Ha and feel very comfortable.

It is easy to find when coming from Playa del Carmen, as you just take two roads to get there.

First, take Highway Carretera 307 south from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. Once you reach downtown Tulum, head north Highway Carretera 109, drive 10 minutes, and the cenote is on your left.

No matter if you’re coming from Playa del Carmen, or even other places like Cancun or  Merida , having a rental car is the best way to visit Cenote Zacil-Ha, and most cenotes. Since some are off the beaten path, public transport can be limited.

Submitted by Shelley of Travel To Merida

Packing List for Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen

While you certainly need to take a swimsuit to enjoy your time swimming in cenotes near Playa del Carmen, there are a few other things that will make your experience more enjoyable.

While some cenotes near Playa del Carmen accept credit cards, not all of them do. Other times, the credit card machines might be down even if they do normally accept credit cards. It’s better to take cash with you.

Always pay in pesos, not US dollars. While many places in and near Playa del Carmen do accept US bills, the exchange rate they offer will not be in your favor. It’s better to get some pesos from a local ATM when paying for things in Mexico .

Many cenotes near Playa del Carmen offer changing rooms. This means you can fully dry off and change clothes before departing after a day of swimming in a cenote. We also use towels to help Little Man warm up a bit after swimming in the cenotes.

While 75 degrees Fahrenheit sounds great in 90+ degree heat, it can be tough on smaller bodies. Towels are essential for our family swimming days. Little Man loves wrapping up in one for a while because he doesn’t get cold as it soaks up the water.

👉 We prefer these quick-dry towels . They’re soft but also don’t feel wet very long. Plus each family member can have their own color, which makes for easy packing!

Sun Protective Clothing

Most cenotes have rules against wearing sunscreen. This is because there are many harmful chemicals in traditional sunscreens that can destroy the fragile cenote ecosystems.

Many plants and animals depend on the cenotes near Playa del Carmen , and wearing sunscreen can kill them.

👉 If you need to buy sunscreen before going to Mexico, we like this sunscreen .

Most cenotes, at least the better ones, require you to shower before going into the cenote. They also have signs telling you not to wear sunscreen.

To avoid getting sunburned, at least in open cenotes, wear long-sleeve rashguards and a gaiter to cover your neck and face. This type of clothing protects you from the sun better than sunscreen anyway.

If you’re already in Mexico and can’t find these things , at the very minimum please buy reef-safe sunscreen. This still offers good sun protection without any harmful chemicals.

We like Maya Solar, which is readily available in many Playa del Carmen grocery stores.

Water Shoes

While these aren’t essential in every cenote, near Playa del Carmen or elsewhere, they are helpful. A number of cenotes have jagged rocks in them.

Many have slippery surfaces and the water shoes help you stay balanced. Especially for younger kids who may not be as steady on their feet, water shoes can be incredibly helpful for peace of mind.

Waterproof Phone Bag

If you aren’t picky about photo quality, a waterproof phone bag that hangs around your neck is essential. It keeps your phone dry as well as safely in your possession to take photos. While some cenotes near Playa del Carmen offer lockers, not all of them do.

👉 I recommend this waterproof phone bag to keep your phone safe. It comes in a set of two!

Waterproof Waist Pouch

I have been using a waterproof waist pouch for over a year now and can’t imagine how I lived without it. While the phone bag keeps my phone safe, I can’t take a decent phone photo with anything else tucked in there.

The waist pouch easily stores my key(s), face masks, some money, a credit card, and even David’s phone if he doesn’t want to put it in a neck pouch.

When we went to Grutas Tolantongo hot springs in central Mexico, I even carried an emergency granola bar in my waist pouch in case Little Man got hangry. It’s roomy and comfortable!

👉 I love this waist pouch . It triple seals before rolling down to velcro shut. After 2+ years of regular use, I’ve had no problems.

How To Get To Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen?

There are several ways to get to cenotes near Playa del Carmen. However, some are easier to navigate with smaller kids. We had a car during half our time living in Playa del Carmen.

It made things a lot easier to get around the area as a family. Even if you’re staying in an all-inclusive resort , a one-day or two-day rental to explore at your own pace is a lot of fun!

👉 I recommend using Discover Cars for renting a car on your trip!

You can also rent a jeep to get around Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya. They’re a lot of fun, even for families!

A popular way to access cenotes that are less than 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen is the colectivos. These minibusses zip around Riviera Maya for just a few pesos.

They are popular with backpackers because they’re so cheap, but also with locals to commute to work.

Pro Tip: The colectivos pick up under the highway overpass on 50th Ave, next to Chedraui Centro. Just tell the drivers standing around which cenote you’re visiting.

If you take a colectivo, do note that you’ll have to flag one down on the side of the highway when they pass. You’ll also be responsible for ensuring that the driver stops when you want them to.

Have Google maps out and watch for your stop so you can call it out to the driver in advance to remind him. Take small peso bills and coins because they don’t always have change and they don’t take USD.

Another popular way to get to cenotes is to hire a taxi. We never had luck hailing taxis on the street in Playa del Carmen . They always ripped us off and overcharged us.

Instead, I used the Radio Taxi PDC app which told me the fares for all over town. If you want to go outside of town, just text them on WhatsApp and get a fare quoted.

I was never overcharged when I used the app. Download and use this app even if you’re only visiting for a week.

Pro Tip: Always have pesos to pay taxi drivers. They don’t take USD or credit cards.

Just make sure you arrange a time for the taxi to pick you up again before it departs because it can be difficult to get a taxi back to Playa del Carmen without special arrangements.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen?

There isn’t a bad time to visit a cenote near Playa del Carmen. They are always about the same temperature. However, there are certain times of year and times of day to get an optimal experience.

Cenotes are a popular excursion with Playa del Carmen tourists. And for good reason. If you want to experience the serenity of a cenote without big crowds, arrive before 10 am.

Some of them open as early as 8 am so it’s perfect for early risers. You’ll be finishing at the cenote just as everyone else is arriving!

Most cenote tourists visit between 10 am and 3 pm. So you can also arrive later in the afternoon to still get a slightly quieter experience. This depends on the cenote, though.

In addition, many cenotes close at 5 pm so if you arrive later in the day you’ll still pay full price but only be allowed to enjoy it for a couple of hours.

In addition, sometimes the cenotes get a bit cloudy after a big rainstorm. While this doesn’t take away from the fun, it can make the beautiful crystal clear waters less enjoyable to look at. It’s just personal preference, though.

How Much Does Visiting Playa del Carmen Cenotes Cost?

Different cenotes near Playa del Carmen charge different amounts. Generally, though, you’ll pay between 50 and 200 pesos per person. Some cenotes have gotten very touristy and may cost more.

Special activities like zip lines, snorkel equipment, and scuba gear may also cost extra if it’s available.

Note : Kids under 12 are usually discounted. In addition, citizens and legal residents are often given discounted rates.

Many of the more popular cenotes have websites where you can check the pricing before you go.

Make sure to take pesos, as not all cenotes take credit cards and most do not accept USD. If they do take USD, you will not be given a favorable exchange rate.

Tours of Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen

The best cenote tour itinerary should take you to all the major types of cenotes, so you get a really good feel for the cenote experience in Mexico .

👉 The best tour of cenotes near Playa del Carmen that are on our list includes visits to Gran Cenote, Cenote Zacil-Ha, Cenote Cristalino, and Cenote Laguna Kaan Luum.

Plus, you also get two meals plus some beach time at one of the most popular beaches in Riviera Maya ! Visitors to Playa del Carmen who are short on time should definitely consider this tour!

Secret Tours to Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen

If you want a really unique cenote experience, consider booking a tour to cenotes that aren’t open access.

The guides who conduct the tours either are part of the family that owns the property or have an agreement with that family.

When you book tours like this, the only people at the cenote will typically be you and your family or tour group.

Insider Tip: Book these tours as soon as you know your dates. They are really popular and sometimes sell out weeks in advance.

Often you’ll get to take unconventional, off-road transportation to these secret cenotes near Playa del Carmen including bikes and jungle buggies.

This just makes the adventure more special and worthwhile, though. If you want a truly memorable cenote experience, consider one of these tours.

👉 These secret tours below are exclusive because they’re to cenotes that are located on private property. They are closed to the general public.

Final Thoughts: The Best Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen

There is no one best cenote near Playa del Carmen. It all depends on your preferences. If you want to snorkel or scuba dive, there are amazing options. These would pale in comparison to some of the open cenotes that are better for swimming.

Pro Tip : First, decide what is most important to you in a cenote. Then use that list to narrow down your choices.

If you’re short on time and just want to swim, my favorites are Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristalino.

They’re some of the closest cenotes near Playa del Carmen and they’re walking distance from each other. They aren’t the best, just the most accessible to Playa del Carmen.

There are even other cenotes we never got to explore, like Cenote Aktun Chen, Cenote Chaak Tun, and Cenote Tajma. And there are cenotes further away from the Playa

The bottom line is whichever of the best cenotes near Playa del Carmen you choose, you’re sure to enjoy yourself! Don’t second guess your decision. Just have a blast!

👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!

Sharing is caring!

Brodi Cole is a full-time digital nomad who travels the world with her family. She made the switch to blogging and content writing after spending more than a decade and a half working as a Human Resources Manager and Director.

Since transitioning her family to a digital nomad lifestyle, they've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years!

In addition to traveling extensively through Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean, she's also visited Asia, Europe, and South America.

She spent most of the pandemic living in Malaysia before living in Mexico for over a year and then driving the Pan-American Highway from the USA to the southernmost tip of Argentina.

Brodi is also a freelance SEO writer and editor, sharing her expertise with other companies and bloggers. She has a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management.

Similar Posts

5 Best Tikal Tours from Antigua Guatemala (2024)

Isla Contoy Tour: Your Ultimate Day Trip Guide (2024)

6 Best Places to Find Paczki for Sale in Chicago (2024)

25 Best Digital Nomad Jobs for Beginners (2024)

What’s It’s Actually Like on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Sleeper Train (2024)

8 Amazing Beaches to Visit on Turks and Caicos with Kids (2024)

11 Best Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen [2024]

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2024

Categories Mexico , North America

The cenotes near Playa del Carmen are a must see, and need to be added to your Mexico itinerary. Check them out and choose your favorit e Playa del Carmen cenotes!

Playa del Carmen is fortunate to be located right in the stunning Riviera Maya , which boasts an immense amount of natural wonders, some of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Over the years it has become one of the most popular coastal resort towns in Mexico , and it’s best known for its palm-lined beaches and breathtakingly beautiful coral reefs, making it a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise – and there are plenty of other things to do in Playa del Carmen !

Featuring lively shopping areas, beach clubs, and nightlife hotspots, this city offers the best of both worlds: relaxing beaches by the coast and a bustling atmosphere in downtown . It’s also very close to the international airport in Cancun , which makes getting there a breeze!

But the greatest pride of Playa del Carmen, and the Yucatan Peninsula as a whole, is not the parties and beaches but the cenotes.

This natural sinkholes are quickly becoming one of the most visited natural attractions in Mexico, particularly the cenotes in Playa del Carmen and Tulum , and it’s not a surprise. Cenotes are not only unique to the area, but insanely beautiful, so tourists from all over the world come to Mexico to swim and dive in them .

Check out the very best cenotes near Playa del Carmen and pick your favorites for your next trip to the area…good luck not wanting to visit them all!

READ ALSO : 14 Best Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours

Table of Contents

What Is a Cenote?

But first, let’s talk about what is a cenote and what makes them special. A cenote is a natural sinkhole dating back several centuries . Cenotes are formed when limestone caves collapse, exposing a natural pool. This natural pool then gets filled with rainwater and with the water flowing through underground rivers , to which these cenotes are connected to.

The word cenote comes from the Mayan term dzonot , which means well . But not all cenotes are the same, there is a variety of cenote types:

Open Cenotes

This type of cenote is like a natural, open pool . Open cenotes vary in depth, some of them offering shallow areas for children to swim safely while others are perfect for snorkeling and even diving.

While these cenotes might be connected to an underground river passage, they’re characterized for being completely in the open , without caves or underground locations. It truly feels like being in a swimming pool, except that the water is fresh and you might be accompanied by fish.

Semi-Open Cenotes

As the name implies, this type of cenote has some parts that are exposed and some portions that are partly hidden by a cave. In short, it’s a combination of the other two types of cenotes.

Cave formations with stalagmites can be found in semi-open cenotes , some of which are great for diving. They’re usually well-lit as the light filters through the open areas of the cenote, which resemble natural pools.

Cave Cenotes

This type of cenote can only be accessed via a land-level entrance . You’ll probably climb down a ladder to get to them, and once you make your way in, it opens up to an underground pool with shallow and deep areas.

The underwater caves are usually filled with rock formations like stalagmites and stalactites, and are the number-one choice for scuba divers . They’re usually the darkest type of cenotes, offering an eerie, very mystical atmosphere.

Cenotes have cultural and religious significance to the ancient Mayans , who believed the cenotes to be passages to the underworld. In fact, Mayans performed rituals in the cenotes and treated the sites as sacred.

BEST CENOTE TOURS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

➤ The Oasis Maya by Xcaret Tour is a full-day excursion filled with aquatic adventures. You’ll get to kayak and snorkel in subterranean rivers and caves in Playa del Carmen, zipline over a cenote, and get to cool down in it. You’ll also enjoy lunch and refreshments. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Cenotes at Casa Tortuga is a half-day tour that takes you to visit the four cenotes located on the property. You’ll get to swim and snorkel in all of them and enjoy lunch before heading back. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ In the Private Dream Underground World you’ll explore the underwater cave system of Sac Actun with your own guide. You’ll get to snorkel in the cenote and learn about the formations of these insane Playa del Carmen caves. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

BEST CENOTES IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

To make your experience unforgettable, make sure to visit any or all of these cenotes in Playa del Carmen or around it . Each of these cenotes has its own unique qualities that make them worth visiting, so take the time to learn what you can expect from your visit to each of them.

Cenote Cristalino

Let’s start with Cenote Cristalino , a turquoise-water cenote in Playa del Carmen. Neighboring Cenote Azul and Cenote Jardin del Eden is one of three cenotes that are located close to each other; many tourists who come here opt to visit all three cenotes . 

Cenote Cristalino is an open-air cenote; while some portions of the cenote are located under a rock that forms a mini cave, most are in an open area. There is a lush jungle feel in this cenote due to the greens that surround it, as well as the crystal clear water.

This cenote is only up to 6 meters deep so it’s best for swimming and snorkeling . There is a cliff jump area, too, but nothing crazy. If you’re looking for a relaxed, not overly crowded cenote, this is the perfect one.

➤ This Full Nature Day Tour takes you to swim in 3 different cenotes, including Cenote Cristalino, on a jam-packed excursion from Playa del Carmen. You’ll also visit a lagoon and the beautiful Playa Paraiso. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Location : Cenote Cristalino Location on Google Maps

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 6 PM

Price : 200 Pesos at the time of writing.

How to Get There : Drive south of Playa del Carmen on the 307 Highway. As soon as you pass Puerto Aventuras, you’ll see Hotel Barcelo to your left: that’s your cue to turn left towards its entrance. There you’ll find signs directing you to the cenote, which is only a couple of minutes away.

READ THE FULL POST: Cenote Cristalino: All You Need To Know

Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul is one of the most beautiful and at the same time cheapest cenotes to get into in Playa del Carmen – so there is really no reason to skip this one!

Cenote Azul  is an open-type cenote, that almost looks like a very large natural swimming pool . You won’t have to enter into a cave, and it’s not claustrophobic as other cenotes can be. It’s even considered the best cenote near Playa del Carmen by some!

Cenote Azul is also a family-friendly cenote and perfect for kids to swim in because it’s not as deep as other cenotes (maximum 5 meters) and there are many shallow areas. There are also small cliffs that are perfect for jumping into the water. For this reason it can be very crowded, though!

The water is crystal clear, which makes it one of the best places for cenote snorkeling in Playa del Carmen , so don’t forget your snorkeling gear. Cenote Azul is also a sort of natural fish spa. When you let your feet dangle in the water, plenty of fish will come to nip on it!

➤ If you prefer to visit it with an organized cenote tour in Playa del Carmen, the Marine Turtle Observation tour might be the best option. This tour lets you first snorkel with sea turtles in Akumal, then you’ll swim/snorkel at Cenote Azul. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ You can otherwise join this Private Tour to visit cenotes and swim in them, including Cenote Azul. The full-day trip includes lunch and a bilingual guide that will be at your disposal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Location : Cenote Azul Location on Google Maps

Opening Hours : Daily from 8.30 AM to 5 PM

Price : 150 Pesos.

How to Get There: Drive south of Playa del Carmen along the 307 Highway until you reach Barcelo Hotel. Turn left towards the hotel entrance, and then right all the way to the cenote.

READ THE FULL POST: Cenote Azul, Playa del Carmen: Visitor Info & Prices (2019)

Cenote Jardin del Eden (Cenote Ponderosa)

I feel like Cenote Jardin del Eden is a fitting name for this cenote. This is a spectacular open-type cenote that will make you feel like you are indeed in the Garden of Eden.

This is a beautiful and well-preserved cenote still not overrun by tourists . Cenote Jardin del Eden , also referred to as Cenote Ponderosa, is surrounded by lush greenery; the rocks on the edge of the cenote are also covered in moss.

The clear water makes Cenote Eden perfect not just for swimming but also for snorkeling in Playa del Carmen. There is a 12-foot cliff that you can jump off into the water. You’ll also find rocks in the middle of the cenote that have been submerged underwater, which makes for a cozy spot to sit and relax.

This cenote is also visited by scuba divers because there is a part that extends into the caves, and is suitable also for non-experienced cave divers .

Many people say Cenote Eden is one of the most stunning cenotes they’ve ever visited, and since this cenote is also nearby Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristalino, there’s really no reason not to visit it! If you want to make sure you have it to yourself, visit early in the morning.

➤ The Private Tour to 3 Cenotes is a full-day trip that takes you swimming in Cenote Jardin del Eden, Cenote Azul, and Cenote Cristalino. You’ll also enjoy lunch to refuel after all the activities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Location : Cenote Jardin del Eden on Google Maps

Opening Hours : Sunday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM

Price : The price in early 2022 is 250 Pesos

How to Get There: Follow the directions for Cenote Azul. Once you get to Barcelo Hotel, turn left and drive until you find the cenote entrance.

READ THE FULL POST: Cenote Jardin del Eden: Truly the Garden of Eden?

Rio Secreto Underground River

Rio Secreto is one of the most mystical and spectacular underground cenotes around Playa del Carmen. When you walk inside this cenote, it literally feels like walking into the Yucatan underworld . 

This cenote was not discovered until 2007, when the owner of the land randomly found an opening . Little did he know that the system of underground caves is over 12km long, or at least that’s what they were able to map out till now!

The Rio Secreto eco-park has tourists flocking in to experience this otherworldly natural sight. There are stalactite and stalagmite formations within this cenote cave system , as well as several chambers that can be explored within the cave where you will find bats, fish, and other creatures.

Don’t worry, it’s not spooky, just magical!

Rio Secreto is a more commercialized cenote/cave in Playa del Carmen, meaning it costs more to enter and it’s a guided experience, but it’s also a unique experience that you can’t have in other types of cenotes.

➤ The cost of entry to Rio Secreto is $99 for adults, which is inclusive of a buffet lunch, tour guide, gear, and all the activities. You can buy your ticket on the official website, but I recommend buying it on Viator.

Getting it on this platform allows you to cancel at no cost up to 24 hours before your tour, so it guarantees much more flexibility if your plans were to change. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKET HERE

➤ The $99 ticket does not include transportation. If you prefer to reserve also a transfer from and to your hotel, you can buy a package with admission + transportation . Make sure to select the option with transfers! ➥ BUY IT HERE

Location : Rio Secreto on Google Maps

Opening Hours : Friday to Wednesday from 8 AM to 3 PM.

Price : $79

How to Get There: Drive south of Playa del Carmen via the 307 Highway. You’ll see the entrance to Rio Secreto right off the highway to your right. The drive takes 10 minutes.

Rio Secreto is located in 77712 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Cenote Chikin-Ha

Cenote Chikin-Ha is located not far from the first three cenotes above, and it’s one of the most spectacular Playa del Carmen cave cenotes.

It is one of three cenotes that are located close to each other, with the two others being Xtabay and Taak-Bil-Ha. The cost of the entrance to this cenote includes admission to these other two cenotes as well .

Walking into the Chikin-Ha cenote can be almost spooky as it feels like you are entering a crevice on Earth. The inside of the cave is filled with a rugged landscape and waters as deep as 9 meters. The crystal clear and turquoise water transforms into a dark abyss the closer you are to the cenote walls .

➤ You can get adventurous and join a Half-Day Tour to snorkel in four different cenotes, and then head to Tulum Beach where you’ll swim with sea turtles.➥ BUY YOUR TICKET HERE

➤ Otherwise, you can buy the General Admission Ticket to this Playa del Carmen cenote, which grants you access to all the cenotes and use of lifejackets. ➥ BUY IT HERE

Location : Cenote Chikin-Ha on Google Maps .

Price : 450 Pesos.

How to Get There: Drive southbound on 307 Highway until you pass Puerto Aventuras. Drive for a few more minutes and when you see Barcelo Hotel to your left, take the next right and drive until you reach the cenote entrance.

Cenote Chaak Tun

Cenote Chaak Tun can be accessed via a long boardwalk that runs up along the jungle toward a cave entrance.

The beautiful cenote consists of one large natural swimming pool and three caverns . Two of these caverns are filled with crystal-clear water, making it one of the most enjoyable snorkeling cenotes in Playa del Carmen.

As you swim or snorkel, you can observe large stalactites that hang from the ceiling of the cave . You can also occasionally spot bats within the cave.

➤ The Private Cenote Exploration Tour takes you to Sac Pool cenote, which is privately owned and features astounding limestone formations and geological traits. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ You can otherwise join the Tulum and Cenote Chaak Tun Tour that offers roundtrip transportation from your hotel and, besides granting you free time to swim at the cenote, it also takes you to the Mayan ruins of Tulum with a professional guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Location : Cenote Chaak Tun on Google Maps .

Opening Hours : Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM. On Sunday it closes at 1 PM.

Price : 1000 Pesos at the time of writing.

How to Get There : You’ll take Avenida Constituyentes in the opposite direction of the coast. Turn left on Avenida Lilis until the end of the street, and then turn right. You’ll be at this Playa del Carmen cenote in 15 minutes.

Cenote Tajma-Ha

Cenote Tajma Ha is an amazing cave cenote that is perfect for diving enthusiasts. This particular cenote is best suited for expert divers with great buoyancy as you will explore narrow passages and encounter saw-like profiles on the rock formations . 

There is also a so-called Sugar Bowl that allows the streak of sunlight to enter the cave , creating a beautiful curtain of light. The maximum depth of the water can reach 30 meters but on average it is about 15 meters deep.

Snorkelers can also enjoy Tajma Ha Cenote, and the entrance fee includes the rental of snorkeling equipment.

Location : Cenote Tajma Ha on Google Maps .

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Price : 250 Pesos.

How to Get There : Take the 307 Highway toward Puerto Aventuras, and when you get to this landmark continue driving for about 3 miles. You’ll take a right to the Tajma Ha street shortly after passing the Pemex gas station.

➤ Cenote Diving in Playa del Carmen offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the depths of the cenotes. You’ll dive in open cenotes and caverns, discovering the rich ecosystem and animals that inhabit them. The experience includes two dives. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Xenotes Park

Xenotes Park is a stunning location surrounded by lush vegetation that’s managed by Xcaret. This eco-adventure park offers a great number of activities, from zip lines and cliff jumps to kayaking, snorkeling, and rappelling .

The park also boasts the four types of cenotes that exist: open, semi-open, cave, and ancient cenotes , so it’s an ideal destination for those who’d like to experience them all.

At this cenote park in Playa del Carmen, you’ll also find restrooms, showers, and dressing rooms to get changed before and after your aquatic adventures.

➤ The Xenotes Oasis Maya Tour takes you to explore the four types of cenotes, in which you’ll snorkel, kayak, and rappel into. A gourmet lunch and transfers are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

OTHER UNMISSABLE CENOTES NEAR PLAYA DEL CARMEN

If you are staying in Playa del Carmen, you’re never a long way away from other destinations. In my opinion, it’s totally worth it to reserve a day and go explore the cenotes close to Playa del Carmen . Some of the most beautiful cenotes are near Tulum , but that’s not even one hour drive away! Other cenotes are located near Akumal or Cancun . Check them out!

Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos (Two Eyes Cenote) is one of the largest underwater cave systems in Mexico . It is also among the biggest cenotes you can explore, which makes it a must when exploring Playa del Carmen.

Located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, this cenote got its name from the two large sinkholes that are approximately 70 meters in diameter each, and are connected via a passageway that measures 400 meters long.

Despite being located within a cave, there is enough natural light that penetrates into the cave making it suitable for snorkeling . The water visibility is also impressive. You can even find divers who visit Cenote Dos Ojos. The entire Dos Ojos cave system is estimated to be up to 61 kilometers long.

If you prefer to visiting cenotes with an organized tour from Playa del Carmen, here are the best options to go to Cenote Dos Ojos:

➤ The Mayan Ceremonial Night   is an evening tour that includes a visit to Cenote Dos Ojos, where you’ll get to swim. You’ll also enjoy a Temazcal Experience, which is a cleansing Mayan ritual, and have dinner. ➥   BOOK IT HERE

➤ Dos Ojos Cenote Private Tour with Mayan Lunch grants you privacy, not only because you won’t share it with other tourists but because it starts early in the morning, escaping the crowds as you swim in the cenotes. Cap it off with a local Mayan lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The 2-Day Scuba Diving Package offers four different cenote and reef dives, where you’ll get to discover the colorful sea life of the reef and explore the depths of Cenote Dos Ojos. ➥   BOOK IT HERE

Location : Cenote Dos Ojos on Google Maps .

Opening Hours : Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM

Price : 350 Pesos at the time of writing.

How to Get There : Take the 307 Highway south of Playa del Carmen and drive for close to 30 miles, until you see the Mayan ruins of Xel-Ha to your right. Take the next right (you should see signs to the cenote, though) and drive straight until you reach it.

READ THE FULL BLOG POST: Cenote Dos Ojos: The Most Beautiful Cenote in Riviera Maya

Cenote Nicte Ha

Cenote Nicte Ha is one of the lesser-known cenotes between Tulum and Playa del Carmen , because it’s overshadowed by the neighboring Cenote Dos Ojos we just talked about.

But if you want to avoid the crowds, this is the perfect cenote to go to. This is an open-water cenote, so it looks more like a natural swimming pool.

It’s best known for its turquoise blue water and lilies that float on the surface . Trust me, there are few things as magical as floating on the water among lilies, with no one around and the sounds of the jungle.

This quiet cenote is in fact surrounded by a lush jungle and rich vegetation , as if enclosing the cenote and keeping it hidden from the view. It’s almost a surreal experience, and I’m betting this one will become one of your favorite cenotes as it became one of mine!

➤ You can join this Tulum Ruins Private Tour with Cenote Snorkeling , where you’ll be able to explore the Mayan ruins (that are so worth it, even if you’ve already been to Chichen Itza!) and the cenote, with transfers from your hotel. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Private Snorkeling Tour takes you snorkeling in two different cenotes, one of which is the stunning cenote Nicte Ha. You’ll get to explore its lush underwater ecosystem and enjoy lunch before going back. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Location : Cenote Nicte Ha on Google Maps .

Price: 250 Pesos.

How to Get There : Follow the instructions to get to Cenote Dos Ojos. Once you turn right from the main highway, drive for around 1 mile and take another right to reach the cenote. You’ll first pass Cenote Jaguar Road; yours is the next one.

READ THE FULL POST: Why You’ll Fall in Love with Cenote Nicte Ha

Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote is one of the most visited cenotes near Tulum . The name of this cenote is actually a misnomer; it is not one big cenote ( gran in Spanish means big ), but consists of several small cenotes . These cenotes are connected via wooden walkways, giving you plenty of areas to swim in and explore.

Snorkeling is a popular activity among those who visit Gran Cenote, but in reality the water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming even without snorkeling gear!

If you prefer to save the hassle of getting here and you prefer to join an organized tour, there’s no problem. You’ll find multiple tours including Grand Cenote, but this one in my opinion offers the best value.

➤ The Private Playa del Carmen Cenotes Tour will bring you to discover some of the most beautiful cenotes near Tulum, including some snorkeling time in Gran Cenote. Lunch and transfers are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Cenote Triple Adventure takes you freediving, cliff jumping, and snorkeling in 3 cenotes: Casa Cenote, Temple of Doom, and Gran Cenote. It includes photos of the experience and transfers from Tulum, so you’d have to make your way there first. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Location : Gran Cenote on Google Maps .

Opening Hours : Daily from 8 AM to 4.30 PM.

Price : The price in early 2022 is 500 Pesos.

How to Get There : Drive toward Tulum via Highway 307. Once you reach the entrance of Tulum Town, turn right on Av. Coba and drive for about 5 minutes until you get to the cenote. There are tons of cenotes in the area (cenote Zacil Ha, cenote Carwash, etc.) so make sure you find the right entrance!

READ THE FULL POST: All You Need to Know About Gran Cenote

Cenote Aktun Chen

Aktun Chen Cenote was named one of the “top 10 underground walks in the world” by National Geographic , so that’s why many people add this cenote to their Yucatan road trip itinerary.

Cenote Aktun Chen is part of a natural park that has been developed to offer a wide range of activities . Some of the activities that can be enjoyed here are a cave tour, zipline rides, and swimming in one of the most amazing cenotes in the area.

The cave tour is a great experience for first-timers because you will learn about the history and geology of the region . Plus, you get an up-close look at the stalactite and stalagmite formations inside the cave. Everyone has to wear a helmet and it’s a pretty cool adventure.

But the highlight of this experience is the cenote itself , which you reach at the end of the walk through the cave. Cenote Aktun Chen is a cave cenote, and it’s completely closed, which allows you to marvel at the jagged rocks that hang from above the ceiling as you swim.

As with most cenotes in the region, the water is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling because of its impressive clarity and all sorts of fish that swim around .

Every activity at the park is priced separately, but the combo that includes everything costs $106 if you buy it on the website or at the park itself.

➤ The Private Tulum and Sac Actun Cave is a half-day tour which takes you to visit the stunning Tulum ruins, before heading to Sac Actun, the underground cenote near Playa del Carmen. There you’ll get to swim among the magnificent rock formations. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Location : Aktun Chen Cenote on Google Maps .

Opening Hours : Daily from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM

Price: $106

How to Get There : Drive south of Playa del Carmen via 307 Highway. When you reach Gran Bahia Principe, take a right and then the first left, followed by another right to access the cenote. It’d be useful to use a GPS here as there are quite a few turns after you get off the highway.

HOW TO GET TO THE CENOTES IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Renting a car is highly recommended if you plan on exploring the Riviera Maya and going on day trips from Playa del Carmen. It will also be very handy to visit all the cenotes.

The majority of cenotes have car parks, and rental prices are very affordable in Mexico. Be aware of scams when renting your vehicle, though, as they aren’t infrequent !

Another option is taking a taxi to visit the cenotes. Prices will vary depending on how far the cenote is from Playa del Carmen, but it’s a comfortable way of making the journey if you don’t have a car.

Hire a Private Driver For the Day

Possibly the best alternative to driving your own car is hiring a private driver . You’ll be taken to the cenotes hassle-free and on your own schedule, and the driver will wait for you so you can enjoy the attraction at your leisure .

It’s also a great option if you want to visit as many cenotes as possible , as it allows you to plan a full day of cenote-hopping and don’t have to worry about how you get from one to the other.

Take a Colectivo

In some cases you can also take a colectivo (shared van) from Playa del Carmen, although not all cenotes can be reached this way .

If you’re on a budget it’s a great way to move around the Riviera Maya , but you’ll have to find out if the cenotes you want to visit are connected to Playa del Carmen by colectivo.

▶ If you’re visiting some of the most popular cenotes, aim to get there as soon as they open, or towards the end of their opening hours to avoid the crowds. Some cenotes get packed during the day!

BEST PLAYA DEL CARMEN CENOTES FAQ

There are so many amazing cenotes in Playa del Carmen! Some of them are as close as 15 minutes from the city center, while some others are an hour away by car.

Unfortunately, most cenotes in Mexico charge an entrace fee to visit them, including the best Playa del Carmen cenotes.

There are tons of cenotes near Tulum, the closest being Cenote Escondido, Cenote Cristal, and Cenote Calavera.

Check Out Also…

A Guide To the Best Cenotes Near Tulum 11 Unmissable Cenotes Near Valladolid

Do you know other cenotes in Playa del Carmen that should be on this list? I’m always looking for new ones! Let me know in the comments .

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you book something through one of my links I might get a commission, at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

Sign me up for the monthly newsletter!

Arthur Tilanus

Friday 2nd of April 2021

Thanks for this blog! We are heading to Playa del Carmen in a few days and want to visit a number of different Cenotes, but it's hard to make a choice with so many options. Your blog definitely helped! Thanks again!

The Travel Bunny

Budget travel blog • Travel more, worry less

Best cenotes Playa del Carmen for your next Mexico vacation

Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations, thanks to its lovely white sand beaches, huge resorts, and easy access to spectacular Mayan ruins and crystal clear cenotes. From the shallow waters of one of Playa del Carmen’s most popular cenotes, Cenote Azul, to the stunning Zacil-Ha Cenote in adjacent Tulum, there are several great cenotes Playa Del Carmen just waiting to be discovered.

If you just do one thing in Mexico, visit one of the Playa Del Carmen cenotes. They are immensely popular among both locals and tourists! And, after falling in love with so many wonderful cenotes near Playa Del Carmen, — here’s a guide to the best cenotes near Playa Del Carmen ! But first…

What is a Cenote?

A cenote (pronounced seh-NO-tay ) is a fresh water-filled limestone sinkhole that naturally occurs when bedrock falls and exposes the groundwater below.

Most of the 6000 cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula are small, underground, and inaccessible, although a significant number are large enough to swim, snorkel, or dive in. Many are crystal blue and open to the air, while others are reached through stairs that descend down into caverns and are linked to enormous underground river systems.

Because the water in the cenotes is chilly because it comes from underground, they are ideal for a refreshing dip to cool off from the scorching Mexican sun.

Several cenotes were utilized for sacrificial rituals throughout Mayan times, and artifacts such as gold, ceramics, and even human and animal remains have been discovered in them.

Types of cenotes

The cenotes near Playa del Carmen are a combination of open, semi-open, and underground formations:

Open cenotes

These are caves that have fallen in on themselves and are now exposed to the sky. They are the most popular ones because they permit swimming in the open air, the water is warm, and there are generally plenty of places to rest by the water. Cenote Azul in Playa del Carmen is probably the best open cenote, followed by Cenote Zacil-Ha in adjacent Tulum and Cenote Oxman near Valladolid.

Semi-open cenotes

These cenotes are primarily subterranean, but there are little vents in the ceiling that allow light and fresh air to enter. The light beams illuminate the crystal clear water below, making these cenotes very stunning. Cenote Ik Kil, which may be seen as part of a day excursion to Chichen Itza, and Cenote Samula, one of the cenotes near Valladolid, are two of the best semi-open cenotes near Playa Del Carmen.

Underground cenotes

These cenotes are entirely underground in a cave system, with no natural light to illuminate the cenote water. The three cenotes near the Coba ruins (Multum-Ha, Tamchach-Ha, and Choo-Ha) are spectacular underground cenotes that are easily accessible from Playa Del Carmen during a longer stay.

Can you swim in a cenote?

Cenotes might be difficult to reach. In principle, more remote cenotes sound perfect, but they frequently involve ‘ swim at your own risk’ scenarios. Other more touristy ones include lifejackets in their ticket prices.

You cannot swim with lotion on your skin because it can kill fish and marine plants, and most places require you to shower before entering.

Best cenotes Playa del Carmen Mexico

The cenotes, caverns, and underground caves are among the Mayan Riviera’s most popular attractions. From the thousands of cenotes in the Riviera Maya, we’ve selected the top ten cenotes near Playa del Carmen that you shouldn’t miss.

These are the best cenotes around Playa Del Carmen, and I believe they should be included in every Playa Del Carmen or Yucatan itinerary!

Cenote Chaak Tun

Here you will actually find two underground cenotes, one with a hole at the top letting in sunbeams and dramatic hanging vines, the other with spectacular stalagmites and stalactites but with little lighting and even pitch black in portions.

The Chaak Tun cenote is THE best cenote in Playa del Carmen in my opinion. Here’s why:

• It’s the only cenote in the heart of Playa del Carmen (10 minutes from the city)
• It’s also home to one of the most stunning caverns on the Riviera Maya!

Chaak Tun can only be reached as part of a 2-hour snorkeling expedition that includes a shaman’s blessing, a Maya meal, tequila, as well as some hiking, and more than an hour in the water. Tours in English and Spanish commence every 30 minutes between 8 and 14.30. The guided Cenotes Playa del Carmen tours are required for preservation and safety reasons.

The guided trip lasts 2h30 and it also includes visits to three flooded caves and one dry cave: Pixan, Xibalba, and Aluxes. You will see a plethora of stalactites, stalagmites, various fish, and ceramic offerings while swimming in the crystal clear waters and wandering with a torch. But, in fact, this is only a small fraction of this vast underground realm, as Chaak Tun is part of Sac Actun, the world’s largest network of underwater caves!

Pick a tour that’s early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the tourist crowds who flock here on day trips from Cozumel.

Opening times

Cenote Chaak Tun is open daily between 9 AM and 3 PM.

How to get to Cenote Chaak Tun

To get to Cenote Chaak Tun from Playa del Carmen, you can rent a car or take a taxi for an 8-minute drive. The taxi ride will cost around 70 pesos.

Cenote Chaak Tun ticket costs

• The 550 peso admission ticket to Cenote Chaak Tun includes an enthusiastic guide, full equipment, a wetsuit, and lunch.

Cenote Rio Secreto or Secret River Cenote

Rio Secreto, an underground stream in the center of the Yucatecan jungle abounding with cenotes and caverns, is less than 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen. The most thrilling experience is touring the caverns and exploring the Secret River to its fullest.

The typical tour route is about a third of a mile long (around half a kilometer) and lasts around one hour and a half. You will explore around 60 meters of caves and underground rivers in which you can go for a swim. For this tour, you need to follow your experienced guide wearing a neoprene suit, a lifejacket, and special water shoes plus a helmet with a headlamp.

Rio Secreto is one of the best cenotes in the Playa del Carmen area, so it was impossible not to include it on this list of cenotes to visit. Furthermore, it was named Best Nature Reserve in Mexico and Central America at the World Travel Awards .

Cenote Rio Secreto is open between 9 AM and 8 PM every day.

How to get to Cenote Rio Secreto

From the center of Playa del Carmen, you can get to the Secret River Cenote by car, taxi, or bus. The trip will take only 6-8 minutes. The bus ride is the cheapest at only 9 pesos, and the taxi ride is the most expensive at 80 pesos.

Cenote Rio Secreto ticket costs and other useful info

• An adult ticket to Cenote Rio Secreto costs $79 USD
• A child ticket to Secret River Cenote costs $39.50 USD
• All tickets include access to the Nature Reserve and a small group tour (10 travelers max.) with a specialized guide. The ticket price also includes lockers, a wetsuit, a life jacket, a helmet with headlamp, towels, a local food buffet, and beverages.

Book the best vacation rentals in Playa del Carmen right next to these cenotes.

Best cenotes near Playa del Carmen

The majority of visitors to Playa Del Carmen wish to explore at least one of the ancient Mayan ruin sites that dot the Yucatan Peninsula. You can find beautiful cenotes Playa del Carmen just a short trip away by car, taxi, or Colectivo.

Most of them are located on the road that connects Playa del Carmen to Tulum, with a large cluster around Puerto Aventuras. I will list them below from the closest cenote to Playa del Carmen to the one that is the farthest.

Cenote Chac Mool

This is a lovely cenote, ideal for beginners looking to dive in Playa del Carmen. While you must have an open water certification or similar, you don’t need to have attended the cave diving course previously because you will be exploring a rather big space with a maximum depth of 12m. Although Chac Mool is a popular cenote in Playa del Carmen for novice divers, it’s critical to exercise caution and adhere to all safety precautions and avoid the areas that are restricted to the public.

At Cenote Chac Mool, you’ll find amazing caves with roots, stalactites and stalagmites, limestone columns, and turquoise water with exceptional visibility, punctuated by some lovely light rays.

In truth, there are two entrances to the cenote Chac Mool: the main one and one called Hermanito (Little Brother). The first hall is rather huge and bright, while the second is strewn with stalactites of all sizes. There’s also a natural dome where you may get out of the water and examine the roots and rock formations.

Cenote Chac Mool is open between 8.30 AM and 5.30 PM.

How to get to Cenote Chac Mool

To get to Cenote Chac Mool, you can rent a car or take a taxi for a 33-minute drive from Playa del Carmen. The taxi ride should cost around 190 pesos.

Another option is to take a Colectivo from Ave. Juárez in Playa del Carmen. The 51-minute bus ride will cost 120 pesos.

Cenote Chac Mool ticket costs and other useful info

• An adult ticket to Cenote Chac Mool costs 250 pesos.
• Admission is restricted to visitors that are at least 12 years old.

Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Crisatlino is extremely close to the previously mentioned Cenote Azul and is well worth a visit. Located near Playa del Carmen in the heart of a mangrove jungle, Cenote Cristalino is an open-air cenote with some of Mexico’s most magnificent crystal pure blue waters. And, while the water may be cold, it feels very pleasant on hot days, which is why this is a popular cenote for families near Playa del Carmen.

The slight downside comes from the fact that it’s a tourist cenote on the Riviera Maya because of its beauty and accessibility due to its proximity to the major road (therefore also feasible by public transport). Fortunately, you never feel crowded because there are numerous areas and a tiny cave where you may swim and snorkel while maintaining your personal space.

As it’s touristy, you won’t feel entirely immersed in nature, but you can find everything you need: deck chairs, snorkeling equipment, changing rooms, and life jackets. There’s no food for sale but you’re allowed to bring your own to enjoy a picnic in a fabulous setting!

The Cenote Cristalino is open from 8 AM to 6 PM every day. However, to enjoy the silence and avoid the crowds, it’s best to arrive before 10 AM.

How to get to Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Cristalino can be reached by driving your rental car on the Carretera Federal in the direction of Tulum. Three kilometers after Puerto Aventuras, you’ll find this cenote and enjoy the free parking.

An alternative is to take a local Colectivo at the corner of Avenida 20 and Calle 2 in Playa del Carmen in the direction of Tulum. The round-trip should cost about 70 pesos.

It’s easy to combine a trip to Cristalino Cenote with a visit to nearby Cenote Azul or Cenote Jardin Del Eden, two of Playa del Carmen’s most gorgeous cenotes. It’s also near the beach, so you can easily turn your visit into a full-day trip!

Cenote Cristalino ticket cost

• Adult tickets to Cristalino Cenote cost 150 pesos
• Children tickets to Cristalino Cenote are 100 pesos.

Cenote Jardin del Eden or Cenote Ponderosa

Cenote Jardin del Eden is one of the most magnificent cenotes in Playa del Carmen, located about 20 minutes from the town center. It’s also one of the largest cenotes on the Riviera Maya, so there is plenty of space for a leisurely dip even on Sundays when there are more visitors. Along with Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristalino, Cenote Ponderosa is one of the most popular cenotes in Playa del Carmen.

When you enter the cenote, it’s clear why it’s called the Garden of Eden – the big open-air swimming pool is surrounded by lush green vegetation and appears precisely like you’d imagine the Garden of Eden to be. Iguanas hide in the surrounding rich foliage and little fish come to tickle your feet in quest of dead skin when you dip them in the clear waters.

With multiple entrance points to the ocean, platforms for leaping, pristine waters, and shadow areas, Cenote Jardin del Eden is ideal for cliff jumping, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. It is also possible to scuba dive from the entrance of Cenote Jardin del Eden to the Coral Cenote (approximately 1 hour) to see various roots, fossils, and even Mayan artifacts. The cave system of Cenote Ponderosa is famous among experienced scuba divers.

Cenote Jardin del Eden tip Some parts of Cenote Ponderosa are very deep so you should be careful when swimming here, especially if you’re a beginner.

Cenote Jardin del Eden is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day except on Saturday when it’s closed.

How to get to Cenote Jardin del Eden

Cenote Jardin Del Eden can be reached by renting a car and driving south on Highway 307 from Playa del Carmen, then exiting near Barcelo Hotel.

An alternative is using public transportation. Take a local Colectivo from Calle 2 in Playa del Carmen and just tell the driver that you’re going to Jardin del Eden or Barcelo Hotel. The whole trip will cost around 30 pesos.

Cenote Jardin del Eden ticket cost and other useful info

• Adult tickets to Cenote Jardin del Eden cost 200 pesos
• Renting a life jacket costs 25 pesos.

Cenote Azul or Blue Cenote

Another popular cenote in Playa del Carmen is the big open-air Cenote Azul, with its shallow waters and a fun cliff jump. It’s actually around 15 miles (24 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen and quite near Puerto Aventuras.

With wooden stairs for easy and safe access, Cenote Azul is perhaps the best cenote for children in Playa del Carmen . This shallow cenote is big and it has exceptionally clear water and various landing spots. There’s even a 4m jump platform and a picnic area, perfect for taking a lunch or snacks.

The main cenote is divided into two swimming sections by a wooden boardwalk. There is an open section surrounded by magnificent foliage, as well as a section covered in stone that is great for a stop in the shade. From the cliff of the deeper pool, you can try diving into the cenote. Snorkeling is also popular on this side of the island.

There are cabins and palapas with rustic tables and seats for rent by the Cenote Azul.

Cenote Azul is ideal for families who want to swim in the open air, relax in the water, and have some fun jumping from the reasonably easy natural platforms. Families usually flock to the shallow cenote side, where younger children can paddle in the clear waters.

Cenote Azul is open every weekday between 9 AM and 10 PM. Closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

To avoid the crowds, I recommend arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

How to get to Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul is easily accessible from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, and as a result, it is extremely popular. You can get to Cenote Azul by renting a car, taking a local Colectivo, or taking a short taxi journey.

Cenote Azul is very close to the Cenote Cristalino, the Cenote Jardin del Eden, and the Xpu-Ha Beach – one of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya, so there is plenty to keep you busy for several hours!

Cenote Azul ticket cost and other useful info

• Tickets cost 120 pesos for adults and 80 pesos for 5-8-year-olds
• Free admission for children under 5
• Renting snorkeling equipment costs 70 pesos and renting life jackets costs 70 pesos.

Kantun Chi cenotes

This Mayan Riviera ecological park of cenotes, caves, and groundwater lies 12 miles (19 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen. One of the best on-site experiences is traveling the underground river with a guide who can help you overcome any worries you may have. It’s a great location that you should not miss.

There are four Kantun Chi cenotes you can visit when you book a Playa del Carmen cenote tour:

• Kantun Chi Cenote , which means “Mouth of Yellow Stone” in Mayan, is a semi-open style cenote with an estimated depth of 1 to 12 meters.
• Saskaleen Ha Cenote , or “Transparent Water,” is one of the largest cenotes in the eco-park. Like Kantun Chi Cenote, it’s semi-open and has depths ranging from 1 to 6 meters.
• Uchben Ha Cenote , or “Ancient Water,” is a cenote that is open to the sky and is home to the majestic Mot Mot bird; its maximum depth is 4 meters.
• Zihil Ha Cenote , “Where the water is reborn”, is an open cenote where you will find a rich beauty of flora and great vegetation, which make this cenote a paradise.

The Kantun Chi Ecopark is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day.

How to get to Kantun Chi cenotes

The fastest way to get to this cenote park Playa del Carmen is to drive or take a taxi (190 pesos) for a 24-minute ride. The cheaper alternative is a 54-minute bus ride (10 pesos).

Kantun Chi cenotes ticket costs and other useful info

• An adult ticket to see the four cenotes in the Kantun Chi ecopark costs $29.70
• A ticket for a child (5-11 years old, between 1-1.40 m tall) costs $16.20.

Chikin Há Natural Park cenotes

The Chikin Ha Natural Park is located just 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and it features three cenotes. It’s a small area where you can swim in the clear waters of the Chikin Ha Cenote and Cenote X’Tabay , as well as explore the nearby ceremonial cenote Taak Bi Ha , with its mysterious ambiance.

Depending on the package you choose, you can even go ziplining and riding through the jungle, as well as having lunch on site. It’s an excellent half-day trip for the entire family to Playa del Carmen!

And, if you’re interested in scuba diving in Chikin Ha Natural Park, you can explore the depths of the cave as long as you have an advanced diving certification.

Chikin Ha Natural Park is open between 9 AM and 5 PM. Closed on Saturdays only.

How to get to Chikin Ha cenotes near Playa del Carmen

You can get to Chikin Ha cenotes by driving or by taking a taxi (200 pesos). This way, you’ll get there in only 27 minutes. However, it’s cheaper to go on a 38-minute bus ride that will cost only 75 pesos.

Chikin Ha Natural Park ticket costs and more

• An adult ticket to Chikin Ha cenotes costs 350 pesos
• Admission is free for children who are 5 years old or younger
• You need to deposit 50 pesos for using the locker; you’ll get this refunded after your visit
• You can rent snorkeling equipment for 50 pesos or bring your own
• The full 2-hour tour costs 750 pesos and it includes a Mayan ceremony, a guided tour of the three Chikin Ha cenotes and a cave, lunch, plus bike, zipline, and snorkeling equipment.

Cenote Tajma Ha

Cenote Tajma Ha was once named Cenote Taj Mahal by cave divers who were captivated by the natural splendor. Over the years its name changed to Tajma Ha, “ha” meaning water in Maya.

Cenote Tajma Ha is a favorite among divers because it’s one of the best cenotes around Playa Del Carmen for scuba diving. There are several diving companies that offer tours into the cenote, and the freshwater dives are best suited to intermediate and advanced divers.

Cenote Tajma Ha is one of the best cenotes to dive in Playa del Carmen , and it’s especially recommended for experienced divers. So if you have a diving certification, add this cenote to your list!

You can enter the cave with just an open water certification, but to fully explore the passages, you should have some experience so you don’t get stuck. The dive lasts 50 minutes to an hour at a maximum depth of 15 meters. As you explore the underwater caves, you will come across fossils, stalactites, stalagmites, and a rather dense halocline .

From March to September, there are incredibly lovely skylights created by the sun’s rays entering through the roof. It’s a beautiful sight for both swimmers and divers. However, though you can definitely come just for some swimming or snorkeling in Cenote Tajma Ha, I recommend this experience for divers more. The surface space is small and there are better cenotes to visit if you don’t plan to go diving.

Cenote Tajma Ha is open between 10 AM and 6 PM.

How to get to Cenote Tajma Ha

Cenote Tajma Ha is easily accessible if you rent a car from Playa del Carmen. Then, you just need to drive on Carretera 307 for 30 kilometers south of Playa del Carmen. You can also take a local Colectivo, or go on a brief taxi ride. The last part of the ride will be on a gravel road that continues for about 2 kilometers from the main road.

While you’re here, you can also go explore the less-touristy Cenote Esmeralda , right “next door”.

Cenote Tajma Ha ticket cost

• An adult ticket to Cenote Tajma Ha costs 150 pesos.

Cenote Aktun Chen

Cenote Aktun Chen is a must-see cenote in the Playa del Carmen area. It is set in an ecological park that includes many cenotes for snorkeling, an underground river, ten zip lines, and a 600-meter-long cave studded with multicolored stalactites and stalagmites, and amazing vaults.

You can enter the jungle from the cave. The cenote lies underground, and its crystal-clear waters make it suitable for diving and snorkeling, with underwater lighting allowing you to see the ground formations.

Cenote Aktun Chen is open between 9.30 AM and 5.30 PM, with the last entry at 4 PM.

How to get to Cenote Aktun Chen

The natural park is 27 kilometers from Playa del Carmen, on the Tulum-Cancun route. The entrance is approximately 4 kilometers on a dirt road from the main road, and then you have another 1.5 kilometers to get to Cenote Aktun Chen. If you don’t arrive by car, please indicate this at the entry as they have transportation available.

Cenote Aktun Chen ticket cost and other useful info

• Underground River tickets for adults cost $33, while those for children are $27
• Cave visits cost $29 for adults and $23 for children
• Zipline tickets are $44 for adults and $35 for children.

Cenote Dos Ojos

This magnificent cenote, located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, is made up of a cave and two springs or water sources. It’s one of the best diving cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula. However, Cenote Dos Ojos is not only a popular choice for divers but also for snorkelers and divers.

The name of Cenote Dos Ojos translates as Cenote Two Eyes, referring to the two sinkholes connected by a boardwalk that resemble two eyes. The two sinkholes are linked and you can swim between them. However, the connection is made by an underground cavern so you can travel from one “eye” to the other only by diving underwater.

Many guests choose to take a snorkeling tour inside the caves. Dos Ojos is a famous diving destination due to its extensive cave system.

The Cave of the Bats is a gloomy and foreboding environment with no natural light. You must enter the cenote with a professional guide, and you can swim, snorkel, and dive inside.

The Dos Ojos Cenote is open between 9 AM and 5 PM.

How to get to Dos Ojos Cenote

Cenote Dos Ojos is best reached by renting a car, or by taking a Colectivo from Playa Del Carmen. For the latter, the drop-off place is on highway 307 at the entrance to Dos Ojos cenotes park — be advised that the cenote is a 30-minute walk along a dirt road.

Cenote Dos Ojos price

• Adult tickets to Dos Ojos cost 350 pesos
• For 450 pesos, you can see all the cenotes in the Dos Ojos Park – Sac Actun and Nicte Ha are particularly spectacular and should be visited if time allows.

Cenote Taak Bi Ha

Cenote Taak Bi Ha, sometimes known as Cenote Tak Be Ha, is located within the Parque Dos Ojos, which also houses the popular Cenote Dos Ojos. It’s a shallow cenote located in an underground cave (easy to access through a stairway) with stunning, completely translucent water, skylights, and roots that fall from the roof, in addition to its many stalactites.

The Dos Ojos Cenote is beautiful and ideal for families, but it is also one of the most touristic on the Riviera Maya. But its neighbor, the Taak Bi Ha Cenote deserves a little more attention.

You can enjoy Cenote Taak Bi Ha on your own in the main area, or you can join their snorkeling tour, which includes a guide, equipment, and a diving light. If you want to explore the cenote’s underground galleries, you can even go diving.

Cenote Taak Bi Ha is open between 9.30 AM and 5 PM.

How to get to Cenote Taak Bi Ha

Cenote Taak Bi Ha is located 50 minutes away from Playa del Carmen. If you’re renting a car, you can take the 307 Chetumal-Cancun towards Tulum to the Parque Dos Ojos gate, then drive another 3 kilometers on a dirt road.

Cenote Taak Bi Ha ticket cost and other useful info

• An adult ticket to Cenote Taak Bi Ha costs 350 pesos and it includes renting a life jacket.
• If you’re interested in the snorkeling tour, the Cenote Taak Bi Ha ticket costs 400 pesos.

Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich

In Mayan, Nohoch Nah Chich means “The Giant Bird.” This cenote system connects to the Caribbean Sea and is roughly an hour’s drive from Playa del Carmen. It’s massive: in addition to stretching over 10 kilometers and having 36 openings, it is linked to Sac Actun, the world’s largest subterranean cave system.

Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich has a maximum depth of 30 feet, and you may explore and admire the rock formations and the colorful marine life, which includes fish and turtles. And although diving allows access to its remarkable underwater passageways with magnificent rock formations, visitors can also swim, snorkel, abseil, and zip line in its crystal blue waters.

Nohoch Nah Chich Cenote is not particularly popular with tourists. Few people are aware of its presence, despite the fact that it is regarded as one of the best cenotes to dive in the Riviera Maya.

Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich is open between 8 AM and 5 PM. There are few visitors, but there are occasionally small diving groups. It gets increasingly quieter in the late afternoon after 14.00.

How to get to Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich

If you rent a car, you’re just a 55-minute drive from Playa del Carmen, near Tulum. A taxi ride will cost around 380 pesos if you’re looking to arrive there faster.

A slower alternative that takes one hour and a half is taking a Colectivo, which only costs 90 pesos.

Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich ticket costs

• An adult ticket costs 800 pesos and it includes snorkeling, abseiling, and zip-line experience.

Casa Cenote

Casa Cenote or Cenote Manati, located on the route between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, is one of the most interesting cenotes in Mexico. The crystal clear blue waters are surrounded by thick forests and mangroves, and a short excursion can turn into a full day trip if you spend the rest of the time on the nearby beach.

Visitors can swim, kayak, or paddleboard in Casa Cenote, which is only 6 meters deep and one of the best cenotes for families. Snorkeling is also common at Casa Cenote. Its underwater tunnel system, which connects it directly to the ocean, attracts lots of divers every year, which makes Casa Cenote diving extremely popular.

You might even see a manatee in the lagoon that connects the cenote to the sea!

Casa Cenote is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.

How to get to Casa Cenote near Playa del Carmen

Casa Cenote can be reached by renting a car, taking a local Colectivo (if you don’t mind walking off the highway), or taking a cab.

Colectivos depart from Playa Del Carmen’s Calle 2 — simply tell the driver you want to get off at Casa Cenote. Then, it’s roughly a 20-minute walk along a dirt road surrounded by vegetation.

Casa Cenote ticket cost

• An adult ticket to Casa Cenote costs 120 pesos.

Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote or Great Cenote is a large and popular cenote outside of Tulum. Comprised of tunnels, caverns, and an open-air cenote, the Gran Cenote is one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s top diving cenotes. The Great Cenote is also ideal best for swimming and snorkeling, so it has something for everyone.

You will first arrive at the cenote’s outer portion, then take the 20m tunnel to the second portion, which is hidden behind the rock wall… where the water is absolutely clear! The waters are so clean and clear that turtles can often be seen swimming in them!

Gran Cenote is also an excellent snorkeling location. Swim and snorkel inside the caverns for a stunning view of the light beams hitting the water through the cave opening and to explore the rock formations.

Families will enjoy it because it is supervised, and it has all conveniences, plus a spacious picnic area. Swimmers and snorkelers of all levels will enjoy the clear waters where they can spot turtles.

Part of Sac Actun, the world’s largest underwater cave system, the Gran Cenote is only suitable for advanced divers, though.

Gran Cenote is open daily from 8 to 16. Gran Cenote is extremely popular, therefore I recommend going early in the morning before 10 or late in the day to avoid crowds.

How to get to Gran Cenote Playa del Carmen

Gran Cenote is an excellent addition to a day trip to Tulum or Coba. It’s easily accessible if you rent a car. An alternative is to arrive in Tulum by Colectivo from Playa del Carmen, then take a cab or another Colectivo in the direction of Coba.

It’s ideal for travelers who want to see as much as possible in one day because it is conveniently placed near Tulum, Coba, and other cenotes. For the full experience, book a guided bike tour of Tulum that includes visits to Gran Cenote, Cenote Escondido, Cenote Cristalino, and breakfast!

Gran Cenote ticket costs

• Adult tickets to Gran Cenote cost 300 pesos.
• Renting a locker is 30 pesos, and renting snorkeling gear costs 80 pesos.

Cenote Zacil-Ha

If you’re planning a trip to Tulum from Playa del Carmen, make sure to stop by Cenote Zacil Ha and its neighbor, Cenote Ak Tun Ha (also known as Cenote Carwash). Cenote Zacil-Ha is a tiny and lovely open-air cenote with clean water, which makes it one of the best cenotes for families.

There are numerous options to leap from the sides or even zip line across the cenote and plunge into it from above! Other amenities include hammocks and regular swimming pools where you may relax!

Cenote Zacil-Ha is open from 10 AM to 5.30 PM every day.

How to get to Cenote Zacil-Ha

Cenote Zacil Ha is an excellent addition to a day trip to Tulum or Coba. It’s easily accessible if you rent a car. When you arrive in Tulum by Colectivo from Playa del Carmen, take a cab or another Colectivo in the direction of Coba.

Cenote Zacil-Ha ticket cost

• Adult tickets to Cenote Zacil-Ha cost 80 pesos.

Cenote Ak Tun Ha or Carwash Cenote

The modest and relaxing Cenote Ak Tun Ha, next to the previously described Zacil- Ha, is also known as the Carwash Cenote since it was once utilized for exactly that, washing vehicles! The cenote includes a vast open-air pool just steps from the parking lot, and its waters are home to a variety of fauna.

Fish and turtles swim in an underwater world of stalactites and stalagmites, with the occasional appearance of a little resident crocodile. A path through the foliage leads to a cave part. Cenote Carwash can reach depths of up to 50 feet, and divers are frequently seen emerging from its waters.

In short, Cenote Ak Tun Ha is ideal for swimming and diving. It’s the perfect choice for those searching for a relaxed and conveniently accessible cenote experience.

Cenote Carwash is open from 8 AM to 6 PM.

How to get to Cenote Carwash

Cenote Carwash is an excellent addition to a day trip to Tulum or Coba. It is easily accessible via vehicle hire. When you arrive in Tulum by Colectivo from Playa del Carmen, take a cab or another Colectivo in the direction of Coba.

Some other cenotes you can see in the area are Cenote Vaca Ha, Cenote Tortuga, Cenote Mariposa, and Cenote Zemway.

Cenote Ak Tun Ha ticket costs

• Adult tickets to Cenote Ak Tun Ha cost 50 pesos.

Cenote Angelita

Cenote Angelita’s magnificent clear waters are deep, so this cenote is frequently visited by expert divers. There are no facilities or food and refreshments – it’s a wild area.

Cenote Angelita is open from 8 AM to 5 PM every day.

How to get to Cenote Angelita

Getting to Cenote Angelita is an adventure in and of itself, as you’ll have to hike through the bush for several minutes. It can be reached by Federal Highway 307 in the direction of Tulum.

Cenote Angelita ticket cost

• A ticket to only go swimming costs 100 pesos.
• A ticket for divers costs 300 pesos.

Coba Cenotes

Many visitors to Playa del Carmen take a day trip to the incredible Mayan ruins at Coba, and there are three great cenotes located near the Coba ruins entrance: Cenote Choo-Ha, Tamcach-Ha, and Multum-Ha are a series of small cenotes that are ideal for a refreshing swim after exploring the incredible jungle ruins.

• Cenote Tamcach-Ha is only a few hundred meters distant and is similarly gorgeous, with jumping platforms that provide a fun element to a swim.
• Cenote Multum-Ha requires a little more effort to reach because it is a few kilometers away, but the deep waters and light beams that descend through the small hole in the roof are worth the effort.

Cenote Choo-Ha, Tamcach-Ha, and Multum-Ha are all underground cenotes; the first two are caves, while the third has a little entrance at the top. Because the Coba cenotes are not frequently visited by visitors, they are quite quiet.

The Coba cenotes are open from 9 AM to 6 PM every day.

How to get to Coba cenotes

Coba Cenote ticket cost

• A ticket to all three Coba cenotes costs 100 pesos.

Cenote Suytun

A few years ago, the beautiful Cenote Suytun became well-known on Instagram. The lovely light beams that flood down through the cenote’s roof onto the circular platform below make Cenote Suytun famous. This cenote certainly lives up to the reputation – it is just as stunning in person as it is in images.

Visitors can swim in Cenote Suytun, although many simply stop by to take some wonderful images. Life jackets are necessary for all swimmers.

Cenote Soytun is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, with the last entry at 4.30 PM.

Because of the light beams of Cenote Suytun, a late morning/afternoon visit is recommended — this is when the light beams are most likely to shine directly onto the circular platform, creating a magnificent experience.

How to get to Cenote Soytun

Cenote Suytun is conveniently accessible by rental car. Alternatively, take an ADO bus to Valladolid and then a local Colectivo or a short cab ride to the ruins. There are other tours that incorporate Cenote Suytun as part of a day trip to Chichen Itza from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Cenote Soytun ticket cost

• A ticket to Cenote Soytun costs 120 pesos.

Cenote Xcan ché at Ek Balam

Ek Balam is a popular tour for visitors to Mexico who want to see a lesser-known Mayan ruin. The Ek Balam Cenote Xcanche is located in the same settlement and can be reached from the entrance to the Ek Balam archaeological zone. Cenote Xcan Che is the ideal place to unwind and cool off after a hectic morning seeing the Ek Balam ruins, and I highly recommend paying a visit to this cenote.

Cenote Xcanche is a beautiful open cenote with a waterfall flowing into it. Swimming is not the only activity popular in this peaceful cenote; zip-lining and swing jumps are also popular.

Cenote Xcan Ché at Ek Balam is ideal for independent visitors because many group tours do not give one enough time to visit. It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for a refreshing swim after touring the ruins, and adventurers who enjoy cliff jumping and ziplining.

Cenote Xanche is open from 8 AM to 5 PM every day of the week.

How to get to Cenote Xcan Ché

Ek Balam is easily accessible from Playa Del Carmen by renting a car or by taking a bus to Valladolid and then taking a Colectivo or taxi the rest of the way.

Cenote Xcan Ché lies around 2 kilometers from the entrance to the Ek Balam ruins. The entrance to the cenote is located before the ticket checkpoints for Ek Balam, allowing you to tour both the ruins and the cenote individually. To get from the entrance to Cenote Xcanche you can choose between walking, cycling, or using a bike taxi.

Cenote Xcan Ché ticket cost

• An adult ticket to Cenote Xcan Ché costs 70 pesos.

Cenote Ik Kil at Chichen Itza

The neighboring Cenote Ik Kil is one of the most magnificent cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula and even one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico. Plus, Chichen Itza is one of the most popular day trips from Playa Del Carmen.

The roof of Cenote Ik Kil has completely fallen, resulting in a stunning image of tree roots cascading into the cenote waters. Gazing up at the wide sky while swimming in Cenote Ik Kil is a fantastic experience that we highly recommend including in your Chichen Itza tour. It’s a short drive from Playa Del Carmen, and if you don’t have your own transportation, most trips include a stop to Cenote Ik Kil.

Cenote Ik Kil is open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM.

The many excursions and individuals that arrive as part of a journey to Chichen Itza can make Cenote Ik Kil rather busy in the middle of the day. I recommend that you arrive at Cenote Ek Kil before 10 in the morning.

How to get to Cenote Ik Kil

Cenote Ik Kil is conveniently accessible with a rental car. It is also feasible to take the dedicated ADO coach from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza but be prepared for a nearly 4-hour excursion.

Aside from renting a car, the most convenient way to view Cenote Ik Kil is as part of a tour to Chichen Itza. There are a variety of tours that include Cenote Ik Kil as part of a day trip itinerary from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Cenote Ik Kil ticket cost

• A ticket to Cenote Ik Kil costs 80 pesos.

So what is the best cenote in Playa del Carmen?

The answer depends on each traveler. If you’re traveling in Mexico with children, you’re probably looking for a cenote with shallow waters, life jackets, and lots of facilities (like lockers, bathrooms, picnic areas, etc.). That’s why the best cenote for families is Cenote Azul .

If you want to explore the underworld of the Playa del Carmen cenotes, the best cenotes for diving are Cenote Nohoch Nah Chic for intermediate and advanced divers and Cenote Chaac Mool for beginner ones .

And, for those who want to escape the tourist crowds, the most relaxing cenotes near Playa del Carmen are Cenote Valladolid and Cenote Merida .

Map of cenotes near Playa del Carmen

Here are the best cenotes in Playa del Carmen mentioned above. This map of cenotes near Playa del Carmen is very useful to find the closest cenotes near me .

Cenotes Playa del Carmen map

About the author

Mirela Letailleur is a Romanian travel blogger living in the South of France. She writes on The Travel Bunny travel blog about affordable travel in Europe. Creator of unique free travel guides & local travel expert. Problem solver. Wannabe coffee guru.

Read more about Mirela Letailleur

After discovering the best cenotes Playa del Carmen, you should read 10 best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun 15 Best Sayulita Mexico resorts, hotels & villas Top 5 tips to working while traveling in Mexico

THE BEST Playa del Carmen Cenotes

The Mexican city of Playa del Carmen lies alongside the sublime waters of the Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo. Situated in the Yucatan peninsula in the far south of the country, it has become popular with visitors to the region because of its prime location on the Riviera Maya and its spectacular white-sand beaches.  The Riviera Maya is an area of Caribbean coast known for its Mayan archaeology, as well as untouched natural wonders – including a series of famous Playa del Carmen cenotes.

The city of Playa del Carmen houses no cenotes close to the center. Visitors wanting to explore the cenotes near Playa del Carmen will have to travel at least 30-minutes out of the city to find them. But trust us, with some of the best cenotes in the Riviera Maya so close, you’ll be sure to want to make a day (or two) of it!  But which are the best cenotes in Playa del Carmen? Why not pick a couple and do a self-guided tour of all the cenotes you want! Otherwise if you want to sit back and let someone else do the driving check out these awesome tours ! Not sure on where to stay? Check out these hotel recommendations.

A QUICK HISTORY OF PLAYA DEL CARMEN AND THE CENOTES

Playa del Carmen can trace its origins right back to the pre-Columbian civilization of the Mayan people. Known then as Xaman-Ha – or ‘the waters of the north’ – it established itself as an important stopover on the pilgrimage route that leads to the island of Cozumel ten miles offshore. With the arrival of the Spanish, many Europeans settled in the area, lured no doubt by the astonishing natural beauty of the region.

Like many towns on this part of the Mexican Caribbean coast, Playa del Carmen remained a sleepy out-of-the-way fishing village until relatively recently. Today the city boasts everything a visitor might need, with a range of restaurants, shopping boutiques, and options for entertainment, making it a focal point for the Riviera Maya area.

City life is centered around Quinta Avenida – Playa del Carmen’s literal Fifth Avenue – which has been pedestrianized and lies just a couple of blocks from the white sands of its beach. Even so, Playa del Carmen and its surrounds remain dominated by pristine jungle, home to monkeys, sloths and exotic birds, and many more fascinating endemic animals.

The Yucatan peninsula is the only place in the world where you can get up close and personal with cenotes in Playa del Carmen. There are 6,000 Yucatan cenotes in total, and visiting cenotes Playa del Carmen is a must. 

These cenotes in Riviera Maya form naturally over thousands of years as a result of the action of underground freshwater rivers on the soft limestone which comprises most of the region’s bedrock. As time goes on, covering layers of rock at ground level collapse, revealing an intriguing collection of open and semi-closed pools in the Mayan jungle. They are used by locals and tourists alike to relax, swim, and dive to explore the extraordinary rock formations.

THE MOST POPULAR PLAYA DEL CARMEN CENOTES

Cenote azul.

With a short but magical walk through the jungle, past smaller, fish-filled pools, the main pool of Cenote Azul Playa del Carmen often takes the breath away. Often considered one of the best cenotes in Riviera Maya, a wooden walkway divides a shallow pool from the main swimming area which drops down to 26 meters.

cenote cristalino

Nearby Yucatan Cenote Azul lies Cenote Cristalino Playa del Carmen. One of the best for families, Cenote Cristalino has toilets, changing rooms, a little snack shop, life jackets, and gear rental. This cenote has an impressive 12-meter cliff jump for adrenaline seekers and a cave that it’s possible to explore without needing scuba experience.

Cenote Jardin del eden (cenote ponderosa)

Situated between Cenotes Azul and Cristalino, Cenote Jardin del Eden Playa del Carmen is aptly named. A gentle walk leads through the jungle for around 10 minutes before you arrive at the sinkhole itself, deep within the bowels of the earth and surrounded on all sides by steep cliffs. The area is scattered with picnic benches, while stairs lead down to the water and some staggering rock formations. The locals also call it Cenote Ponderosa.

cenote chac mool

Cenote Chac Mool has two impressive caverns drenched in sunlight and with spectacular jungle views from even below the surface of its waters. Its proximity to Playa del Carmen makes it one of the most popular on the Riviera Maya.

Photo by : suttue_

BEST Cenotes for SCUBA divers

Cenote chikin ha.

Cenote diving Playa del Carmen is a popular pastime for those with the relevant qualifications. Meaning ‘western waters’ in Mayan, Cenote Chikin Ha is also sometimes known as Half Moon Cenote. Only discovered in 1997, it has a large undercut ceiling rather like a large horizontal gash in the earth. Passages lead some 15 km, but some of the best rock formations can also be seen with a simple snorkel setup.

cenote taj ma ha

Cenote Taj Ma Ha receives cave divers from around the world and is divided into an intricate series of passageways, caves, and caverns pierced with sunlight. Reaching an impressive 15 meters down, the tunnels host numerous fossils, stalactite, and stalagmite formations.

Photo by : marcorock17

Nearest cenote to Playa del Carmen

Cenote chaak tun.

Comprising a large pool of water and three caverns, Cenote Chaak Tun is one of the best cenotes in Yucatan. It has a beautiful collection of stalactites hanging from its roof. In addition to this, Cenote Chaak Tun has great facilities for family trips – you can buy food and rent wetsuits.

Cenote Chaak Tun is only a 16-minute drive outside of Playa del Carmen, so take a taxi or grab a tour!

Photo by :  laradanielle

HOW TO GET TO THE CENOTES NEAR PLAYA DEL CARMEN

The majority of cenotes Riviera Maya we highlight below are within a 30-minute drive of the center of Playa del Carmen, meaning you really don’t have to travel far to see the best cenotes near Playa del Carmen. If you have access to a vehicle, the cenotes are clearly marked on maps and road signs. Hotels and resorts are also very happy to organize cenote tours or transport for you, while those on a tighter budget can make use of the shared colectivo taxis that ply the roads around the city from bases on Calle 2 and Avenida 15.

Playa del carmen cenote tour

When visiting the Yucatan peninsula, a cenote tour Playa del Carmen is simply a must-do. Not only are the cenotes in Yucatan unique to this part of the world, but they also offer spectacular settings in which to relax, swim, and spend time with friends and family.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Getting around Playa del Carmen is very easy, you can basically walk everywhere. If you want to be amongst the action, stay central near Quinta Avenida, or in English “5th Avenue”. It’s a pedestrian thoroughfare that runs about 4kms through the center of Playa del Carmen parallel to the beach. ‘Quinta’ as the locals call it, is home to cafes, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, souvenir shops, shopping malls, and hotels.  If you are looking for a Jacuzzi on the balcony the  Caribbean Paradise Boutique by GuruHotel is for you. If you want resort vibes but in the heart of town check out Magic Blue Spa Boutique Hotel Adults Only. And if budget is more your thing, Hotel Club Yebo is highly recommended and centrally located. 

If you are wanting beach front but central location, Playa Caribe is where you should look. El Taj Oceanfront and Beachside Condo Hotel have beachfront suites for a reasonable price and high recommendations. 

Playacar is a beach at the southern end of Playa del Carmen. If you want to live the all-inclusive luxurious life here are three of the top resorts: Sandos Playacar All Inclusive , Royal Hideaway Playacar , The Reef Playacar Resort & Spa . 

And you want to take it next level and be treated like a celebrity then check out Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera where Elton John has been spotted. Or if you feel Leonardo DiCaprio is more your style, he has stayed at the Viceroy Riviera Maya. 

Check out the hotel map below! 

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions from affiliate partners when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

PRIVATE CENOTES & CAVE EXPLORATION

PRIVATE HALF-DAY UNDERWORLD SWIM 

Swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters as you discover the hidden beauty of this highly unique ecosystem.   Gaze upon exotic rock formations tens of millions of years in the making.   Feel the intrigue that accompanies learning about our planet’s geological past and the role played by Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.

Explore a Sacred Cenote

Tour Details & Highlights:

Recommended* tour start at 08:00 a.m. (+/- 1 hour)

Swim, snorkel and explore a cave system

No heat, no crowd, not weather depending

Duration of this tour is approximately 3 to 4 hours

*you decide what time we pick you up

A great combination with Tulum or Coba or Turtle Bay or ATV's!

PICTURES click to enlarge

What's included:

✅  A personal tour guide who picks you up at your hotel

✅  Certified driver and fully insured vehicle with a/c

✅  Exclusive round-trip transportation

✅  Pickup & drop off at your hotel/vacation rental

✅  Entrance fees and snorkel gear

✅  Water, soda, beer and snacks in the van

Free Cancellation

Up to 24 hours in advance

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Secure your spot while staying flexible

Pickup at your Hotel or Vacation Rental

Round-Trip Transporation included

PRIVATE HALF-DAY TURTLES & PRIVATE CENOTE 

Experience green sea turtles in a protected sanctuary.   Swim & snorkel in crystal clear water of a breathtaking underground river system.   Afterward, head home or first stop for lunch anywhere you'd like in the Turtle Bay Area. Private tours are about freedom. With the help of your host, you choose exactly what you'd like for lunch. Our transportation to any option in the area will be at no extra cost. *Guests cover lunch expense

Swim with Turtles & Explore a Cenote

Recommended* tour start at 07:30 a.m. (+/- 1 hour)

Early morning visit of Akumal Bay

no heat, no crowd, best for your photos

Swim with sea turtles in a protected sanctuary

Snorkel and explore a cave system

Enjoy the traditional food in a fine restaurant (a la carte)

Duration of this tour is approximately 5 hours

A great combination with Tulum.

PRIVATE HALF-DAY MAYAN JUNGLE TREK

Swim and Jump in 4 Cenotes with 3 Zip-lines and Canoes

Travel into the heart of the jungle where the adventure begins. enjoy ziplining, canoeing, cliff diving, and snorkeling all at your own pace., finish the day with a visit to an adjacent mayan village where you will be greeted by a delicious lunch and an opportunity to appreciate the simplicity of the lives of the local villagers..

Enjoy 3 zip-lines over the biggest cenote of this area

Jump of cliffs and exploring the area with canoes

Delicious, tradition lunch in a nearby Mayan community

Duration is approximately 5 hours

A great combination with Tulum or swimming with sea turtles

Questions ?

Explore  Similar Things to Do in Playa del Carmen and nearby

Mayan Train Playa del Carmen Station

The Mayan Train Playa del Carmen Station is one of the most prominent stops of the great railway project promoted by the Mexican government.

Located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, this station promises to be a key point to connect tourists with the natural, historical and cultural wonders that the region has to offer.

With its inauguration, Playa del Carmen is further consolidated as a world-class tourist destination, offering fast and efficient access to different corners of southeastern Mexico.

The station in Playa del Carmen is part of the main route of the Maya Train that runs through states such as Quintana Roo, Yucatan, Campeche, Tabasco and Chiapas.

Are You Planning to Travel on the Mayan Train?

Find the best offers and promotions on flights and accommodation:

From this point, travelers will be able to travel comfortably to other tourist destinations such as Tulum, Cancun , Merida or Palenque, all while enjoying the natural landscapes that characterize the region.

The Playa del Carmen Station promotes tourism, while encouraging economic and social development, generating employment and attracting new investments.

What to do in Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is a tropical paradise full of activities for all types of travelers.

Its prime location on the Riviera Maya makes it a strategic point for exploring both its beaches and nearby attractions.

Among the most popular activities is walking along the iconic Quinta Avenida , where tourists can enjoy shops, restaurants, bars and art galleries.

In addition, Playa del Carmen’s main beach offers crystal-clear waters and white sands, ideal for relaxing or practicing water sports such as snorkeling and diving.

Another must-see attraction is visiting the nearby cenotes , natural caverns filled with fresh water that offer a unique experience for swimming or diving.

Some of the most famous cenotes in the vicinity are Cenote Azul and Cenote Dos Ojos .

If you prefer something more adventurous, you can explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to rich biodiversity.

Playa del Carmen Hotels

Thanks to its popularity with tourists, Playa del Carmen has a wide variety of hotels to suit every budget.

From luxury beachfront resorts to cozy hostels, there are options for every taste.

All-inclusive resorts, such as the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort or the Paradisus Playa del Carmen , offer a complete experience with world-class restaurants, dreamy pools, and direct access to the beach.

For travelers looking for something more affordable, there are numerous boutique hotels such as the Hotel La Semilla or the Thompson Playa del Carmen , which offer a more intimate and personalized stay.

Additionally, many of these hotels are conveniently located near Fifth Avenue , allowing visitors easy access to the city’s main attractions.

Playa del Carmen Transfers

The transportation system in Playa del Carmen is very efficient, offering multiple options for getting in and out of the city.

From the Mayan Train Playa del Carmen Station , travelers can easily access taxis, buses, and private transportation to explore the region.

Additionally, several private transfer companies offer service from the station to different hotels, cenotes, and nearby theme parks such as Xcaret and Xel-Há .

Another popular option is to use the ADO bus services, which have routes to key destinations such as Cancun, Tulum, and Merida.

This service is ideal for those looking for an economical yet comfortable option for getting around the Yucatan Peninsula.

Additionally, with the inauguration of the Tren Maya, connectivity is even greater, allowing visitors to reach more destinations quickly and efficiently.

Playa del Carmen Car Rental

For those who prefer the freedom to move at their own pace, c ar rental in Playa del Carmen is an excellent option.

There are numerous car rental companies, both international and local, that offer vehicles at competitive prices.

Some of the best known are Hertz , Avis and Europcar , which all have offices in the city, making it easy to pick up and drop off cars.

With a car, visitors have the possibility to thoroughly explore the surroundings of Playa del Carmen, visit hidden cenotes, tour the ruins of Tulum or venture into the jungle to discover lesser-known archaeological sites such as Coba .

In addition, the roads in the region are in good condition, making it easy to get to other tourist spots.

An unforgettable trip to Playa del Carmen

Traveling to Playa del Carmen on the Mayan Train is an experience that leaves a mark.

This tourist destination offers paradisiacal beaches and first-class tourist attractions, as well as a rich culture and history that make each visit unforgettable.

With the Mayan Train Playa del Carmen Station , access to this jewel of the Riviera Maya is even easier, allowing more travelers to discover everything the region has to offer.

From relaxing on the beaches, enjoying an outdoor dinner on Fifth Avenue or exploring Mayan archaeological sites, Playa del Carmen is a destination that has it all.

And now, with the connectivity provided by the Mayan Train , the trip is much more comfortable and accessible, making each visit a unique adventure.

Where is the Mayan Train station in Playa del Carmen?

The Mayan Train station in Playa del Carmen is located on the Cancun – Tulum highway, at the intersection with 38th Avenue North, within the popular tourist destination of the Riviera Maya.

Where are the Mayan train stations located?

The Maya Train stations are located in several states in southeastern Mexico, including Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo, connecting cities such as Palenque, Merida, Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen.

Does the Mayan train go to Playa del Carmen?

Yes, the Mayan Train has a station in Playa del Carmen. From this station, there is a shuttle service that connects to the city center. The price of the service is $55.00 Mexican pesos and the trip takes about 20 minutes.

How much does the Mayan Train cost from Cancun to Playa del Carmen?

The fares for the Mayan Train on this route depend on both the class of the ticket and the passenger profile. The prices for the Mayan Train from Cancun to Playa del Carmen are:

• Special tourist: $74
• Local tourist: $99
• National tourist: $148
• International tourist: $197
• National Premier: $236
• International Premier: $315

All prices are in Mexican pesos.

Similar news to Mayan Train Playa del Carmen Station :

R. Mayan Train Playa del Carmen Station

Not what you’re looking for? try a search

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Subscribe to be able to comment and be part of the community.