Puerto Morelos Pier
A charming fishing village on the Riviera Maya, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reef, and relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Puerto Morelos Pier
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming fishing village on the Riviera Maya, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reef, and relaxed atmosphere.
"This fishing village small but it's definitely growing fast. Get here before it changes too much!"
🏖️ Beach Access is Free
Enjoy the public beaches with your own cooler and good vibes; no cover charge here!
🐠 Snorkel the Reef
Book excursions from town for an up-close look at the vibrant marine life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Pier
Puerto Morelos Town Center
A picturesque pier offering stunning Caribbean views, perfect for photos and soaking in the ocean breeze.
Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Offshore from Puerto Morelos
Dive into a vibrant underwater world, home to diverse marine life and the second-largest barrier reef globally.
Playa PÚBLICA (Public Beach)
Playasol Beach, Puerto Morelos Center
Enjoy expansive, often seaweed-free beaches perfect for relaxation and experiencing the local beach culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Reef Ready
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏖️ Beach Access is Free
Enjoy the public beaches with your own cooler and good vibes; no cover charge here!
🐠 Snorkel the Reef
Book excursions from town for an up-close look at the vibrant marine life.
🚌 ADO Bus for Budget Travel
A cost-efficient way to reach Puerto Morelos from Cancun Airport.
📍 Local Charm
Visit before it changes too much; enjoy the small-town feel and unique shops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏖️ Beach Access is Free
Enjoy the public beaches with your own cooler and good vibes; no cover charge here!
🐠 Snorkel the Reef
Book excursions from town for an up-close look at the vibrant marine life.
🚌 ADO Bus for Budget Travel
A cost-efficient way to reach Puerto Morelos from Cancun Airport.
📍 Local Charm
Visit before it changes too much; enjoy the small-town feel and unique shops.
📸 Unique Photo Ops
The pier and clear waters offer fantastic opportunities for memorable photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Puerto Morelos for its beautiful, often seaweed-free beaches and the vibrant marine life accessible via the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. The town's charm as a laid-back fishing village is a major draw, offering a more authentic experience than larger resorts. However, some note the rapid growth and increasing development, suggesting a visit sooner rather than later to experience its raw glimmer.
"I love this place! Small Malecon with a disappearing pier and a tilting old lighthouse (?). Crystal clear waters thanks to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef just off the coast. Easy to spot fish, rays and even barracudas near the shore. Very unique for photo opportunities!
This fishing village small but it's definitely growing fast. When I was here last year (Mar/Apr 2021) there were hardly any tourists, but this year they are everywhere. Judging by the amount of construction going on right now (Jan/Feb 2022), it seems Puerto Morelos plans to continue growing too.
Get here before it changes too much! There's still a lot of charm to be found before the beach front is completely redone and taken over by modernization. I definitely prefer the small-town feel I found here last year compared to the development craze that welcomed us this year, which probably means this second trip will unfortunately be our last (unless purely for scuba diving because the reef is truly marvelous).
Still worth visiting, but I'd make that sooner rather than later if you're hoping to catch the last bit of raw glimmer before this "hidden gem" is put on full fledged display! There are great restaurants right off the Malcone, a new playground area and lots of souvenir shops not far off it either. Could easily just spend a day or two enjoying the sights but if you plan a longer trip, I highly recommend the services at Wet Set Diving and the Puerto Morelos Language Center to make your adventure a well rounded learning experience too."
mayryanna
"Not long enough to be in deep enough water for fishing"
Bob Patterson PT
"Beautiful views on a beautiful day. Friendly people. Relaxing."
Justin Grigg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most cost-efficient option is the ADO bus, which is clean, has AC, WiFi, and TVs. Taxis are also available but will be more expensive. Some travelers opt for private transfers for convenience.
Yes, it's a short car or taxi ride from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. The ADO bus is also a convenient option for inter-city travel.
Puerto Morelos is a small, walkable town. Taxis are readily available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. Many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.
Yes, the ADO bus service connects Cancun to Puerto Morelos, making it an accessible destination for day trips or longer stays.
Renting a car is an option, offering flexibility to explore the surrounding areas. Parking can be found in town, though it might be limited during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The pier itself is generally free to access for strolls and enjoying the views. 
Snorkeling excursion prices can vary. It's recommended to book through local operators in town for potentially better rates than resort bookings. Expect prices to range from $40-$70 USD per person for a guided tour.
No, the public beaches in Puerto Morelos, like Playasol, are free to access. You can bring your own cooler and enjoy the sun and sand. +1
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot with reputable operators like Wet Set Diving.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks to public beaches is allowed and encouraged by locals. However, be mindful of leaving no trace and disposing of trash properly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stroll along the pier for scenic views, take photos with the iconic lighthouse, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Absolutely! Puerto Morelos is renowned for its proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. +1
Expect to see a variety of fish, rays, and even barracudas near the shore. The reef is teeming with colorful coral and diverse sea creatures.
The pier offers beautiful views for both sunrise and sunset.
You'll find a good selection of souvenir shops offering local crafts and gifts, often at more reasonable prices than in larger tourist hubs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Puerto Morelos is a fishing village, so fresh seafood is abundant. Look for restaurants like Crazy Fish Taco for seafood with a view or explore local eateries recommended by residents for authentic flavors.
Yes, several places offer delicious breakfasts. One TikTok creator highlighted an incredible breakfast spot that takes the morning meal to another level.
Yumyum Wok is a highly recommended spot for woks, ramen, and other Asian dishes, offering a guaranteed good meal.
Compared to larger resorts, Puerto Morelos offers more budget-friendly dining. Many local restaurants provide good food at reasonable prices, especially away from the immediate beachfront.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to ask about specific dishes or inquire about modifications.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic pier is a must for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Yes, drone footage of the pier and coastline is possible and captures the beauty of Puerto Morelos from a unique perspective.
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset offer the best light for photography.
The clear waters make it easy to spot marine life like fish and rays, offering unique underwater photo opportunities if you have the right gear.
Protect your gear from sand and saltwater. The vibrant blues of the Caribbean Sea and the white sand provide a beautiful contrast for any subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly snorkeling tour to introduce children to the wonders of the reef. Look for operators who cater to younger swimmers and ensure they provide appropriate safety gear. The town also has a playground area near the malecón, providing a fun diversion for younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Dining at local eateries away from the main tourist strip often yields delicious and affordable meals.
couples
+1 Many restaurants offer intimate dining experiences with ocean views, perfect for a special evening. Consider a sunset boat tour for a truly memorable experience, complete with drinks and stunning coastal vistas.
The relaxed atmosphere of this fishing village provides a perfect backdrop for quality time together, away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded destinations. Exploring the charming streets and enjoying local cuisine hand-in-hand adds to the romantic appeal.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Several tour operators, many departing directly from the Puerto Morelos pier, offer excursions to the best snorkeling and diving spots. These tours often include equipment rental and guided experiences, making them ideal for all skill levels. For those seeking a more immersive experience, PADI-certified dive shops are available for certified divers. Remember to always follow responsible tourism practices, such as not touching the coral and avoiding feeding the fish, to help protect this fragile ecosystem.
Beyond the main reef, there are also opportunities to explore shipwrecks and underwater caves, adding another layer of adventure for experienced divers. The clarity of the water, often enhanced by the absence of sargassum seaweed, provides unparalleled visibility, making every underwater moment a breathtaking spectacle.
The Charm of Puerto Morelos: A Local's Perspective
While the town is growing, there's a conscious effort to preserve its character. You'll find a mix of traditional Mexican architecture and newer developments, but the core of Puerto Morelos still feels like a genuine community.
For those looking to delve deeper into the local culture, consider visiting the Puerto Morelos Language Center or engaging with local artisans. The town's unique identity is a significant draw for travelers seeking an escape from the typical resort experience.
Getting Around and Staying Connected
When arriving from Cancun International Airport (CUN), the ADO bus is a highly recommended and economical option. These buses are known for their comfort, featuring air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems, making the journey pleasant.
While Wi-Fi is available in many hotels and restaurants, consider purchasing a local SIM card if you anticipate needing consistent connectivity for navigation or communication. This can often be more reliable and cost-effective than relying solely on international roaming plans. Many local shops and eateries offer a welcoming atmosphere, and engaging with locals can provide valuable insights and recommendations for your stay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit