Sargassum—perhaps one of the least favorite words for any beach enthusiast planning a getaway to the sun-kissed shores of Cancun & the Riviera Maya. While it’s true that this seaweed can appear suddenly and put a damper on your beach plans, it doesn’t have to ruin your vacation! We’ve put together a list of water-based activities that are perfect alternatives when sargassum decides to gatecrash your beach day. Plus, remember, not all beaches are affected at the same time. Sargassum can hit wherever it desires, and you might have a beach in Playacar get hit with lots of sargassum, while Playa Paraiso stays beautiful and sargassum-free. Plus there are also resorts equipped with sargassum barriers that remain largely untouched by the algae. Need help finding one? Just reach out to us at Caballeros Vacations, and we’ll guide you to a sargassum-free spot for your stay.
Table of Contents
1. Explore Cenotes and Cenote Parks
The Yucatan Peninsula is dotted with thousands of cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with fresh water, each with its own unique charm. From the hidden wonders of Cenotes Zapote and Cenote Azul to the well-organized parks around Kantun Chi and Aktun Chen, these natural pools offer a magical escape from the salty sea. There are more open cenotes, more closed-off cenotes. And there’s plenty of tour operators that offer trips to them! Living Dreams Mexico puts together some amazing private cenote tours which give you exclusive access to privately owned cenotes – free from any crowds! These do come with a more premium price-tag. Lomas offers a more economical alternative with shared tours.
Pro Tip: Cenotes Do Not Permit Any Sunscreen Or Body Lotions To Help Protect Their Delicate Ecosystems
2. Go Swimming with Whale Sharks
The gentle giants of the sea, whale sharks, visit the waters around Cancun primarily in the summer months. These colossal yet totally harmless creatures provide an exhilarating experience for swimmers and snorkelers. Tours typically depart from Cancun or Isla Holbox, taking you out into the open ocean where you can swim safely alongside these magnificent fish. The whale shark experience is profound, often described as a once-in-a-lifetime encounter that connects you deeply with the marvels of the ocean.
3. Visit Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres
Playa Norte, one of the top beaches in the Riviera Maya, remains largely free of sargassum. Its calm, turquoise waters and soft, white sands make it ideal for relaxation and sunbathing. Easily accessible via ferry from Cancun, you can spend a day here lounging at beach clubs, sipping cocktails, and enjoying fresh seafood. The island itself offers quaint streets to explore, with charming shops and local eateries. Renting a golf cart to tour around Isla Mujeres provides a fun way to see the sights beyond the beach. If you’d like a more planted experience on Isla Mujeres, consider a stay at the adults only Impression Isla Mujeres – voted most instagrammable resort for 2024!
4. Visit Isla Contoy and Isla Holbox
Isla Contoy and Isla Holbox offer escapes to sargassum-free beaches. Isla Contoy, a national park and bird sanctuary, limits the number of daily visitors, helping to preserve its untouched beauty. The entire experience is magical, and if you love wildlife, especially the avian kind – this is the perfect trip. Tours to Isla Contoy often include snorkeling stops, and the boat ride to Isla Contoy averages about 45 minutes from Cancun.
Isla Holbox, known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets, is perfect for those looking to just relax and unwind. The island’s sandy streets, accessible by foot or bike, contribute to its charm, with local art and cuisine highlighting the cultural experience. The beaches here are wide, and generally sargassum-free, providing for a perfect sandy escape!
5. Do The Muyil River Float
Adjacent to the Muyil archaeological site, the Muyil River float offers a serene journey through ancient Mayan waterways. This relaxing float takes you through mangrove forests and past some truly remarkable sights, offering a peaceful nature retreat. The experience is both meditative and enlightening, with opportunities to learn about the area’s ecological and historical significance. Combining this activity with a tour of the Muyil ruins can deepen the appreciation of the ancient Mayan civilization here in the Riviera Maya.
6. Go On A Fishing Adventure
If you love to fish – Cancun and its surroundings are renowned for diverse fishing opportunities. Whether you prefer the quiet of fly fishing, the excitement of deep-sea fishing, or the challenge of spearfishing, you can find a fishing tour for it here in Cancun & the Riviera Maya. Most charter services offer half-day or full-day excursions, providing all necessary equipment and expertise. Target species vary by season, offering anglers a chance to catch everything from bonefish in the flats to marlin and sailfish in deeper waters.
7. Charter A Yacht or Catamaran
Chartering a yacht or catamaran allows for a personalized sea adventure. These excursions not only provide freedom to explore secluded coves and snorkeling spots entirely on your own schedule, but also offer a touch of luxury with onboard amenities like gourmet meals and private sun decks. Sunset cruises are particularly popular, offering stunning views of the horizon while enjoying cocktails and canapes in the company of friends or family.
8. Take A Snorkeling Tour
The coral reefs near Puerto Morelos and the waters around Akumal are ideal for snorkeling, showcasing vibrant marine ecosystems. These areas are protected and thus offer some of the best snorkeling in the region, with clear waters and abundant sea life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful reef fish. Guided tours often include equipment and can provide valuable insights into the health of the reefs and the species that inhabit them.
9. Go To A Water Park
For a fun-filled day on land, the water parks around Cancun, like Ventura Park, Nickelodeon, and Jungala, offer various attractions, from adrenaline-pumping water slides to lazy rivers and children’s play areas. These parks are perfect for families looking to entertain younger travelers or groups looking for an action-packed day away from the beach, while still leaving plenty of opportunity to get in the water!
10. Visit the Cancun and Tulum Lagoons
The lagoons in Cancun and Tulum, such as Nichupte and Kaan Luum, are perfect for water sports enthusiasts. With activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, these lagoons provide calm, clear waters ideal for both beginners and experienced adventurers. The unique ecosystems also make for excellent bird watching and nature photography. You’ll forget there’s sargassum in the ocean right across the way!
With such a variety of activities available, sargassum need not be a deterrent to enjoying the rich experiences the Riviera Maya has to offer. Each of the alternatives we mentioned above provides a chance to create lasting memories, enjoying the natural beauty and exciting activities that define this beloved vacation destination.
At Caballeros Vacations, we’re here to help you craft the perfect itinerary, ensuring your trip is filled with enjoyment, regardless of the seasonal seaweed.
