The Best Cenotes in the Riviera Maya 2026: Puerto Aventuras

If you’re searching for the best cenotes in the Riviera Maya, Puerto Aventuras is an unbeatable place to start. Set right in the heart of the region, it offers easy access to some of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico. This 2026 guide highlights our top picks, beginning with those just minutes from Puerto Aventuras before taking you further into the region to explore more of these aquatic wonders.

What Are Cenotes?

These natural sinkholes formed thousands of years ago when limestone bedrock gave way, uncovering a hidden network of underground rivers. In the Riviera Maya, those rivers continue to flow beneath the jungle, filling hundreds of cenotes with some of the purest, most refreshing water you’ll ever encounter.

For locals, cenotes are a apart of their daily life. For visitors, they offer the perfect spot for snorkeling, floating, cliff jumping, or simply relaxing while taking in the lush jungle canopy above. From sunlit open pools to mysterious caves lit only by natural skylights, every cenote has its own quirks.

What You Need To Know Before You Go

Cenote Opening Times and Entrance Fees

Opening hours and entrance fees for cenotes in the Riviera Maya can change depending on the season. Keep in mind that Sundays tend to be the busiest days, so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter visit.

Sunscreen and Footwear Guidelines

Some cenotes don't allow regular sunscreen to protect their delicate ecosystems. In many cases, eco-friendly sunscreen is allowed, so check the rules before you go. It’s also a good idea to bring your own water shoes to protect your feet on rocky or slippery surfaces.

Equipment Rentals and Payment Methods

Many cenotes offer snorkel gear rentals, but availability varies, so bringing your own equipment can save time. Most cenotes accept cash only, so make sure to have some local currency on hand.

Food and Drink Options

While some cenotes have snack bars, restaurants, or drink vendors on site, others do not offer any refreshments. To stay comfortable and hydrated, it’s best to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend several hours there.

Types of Cenotes and Facilities

Cenotes come in different forms. Some are cave-like pools you swim into, while others are open natural pools surrounded by rocks, perfect for lounging or cliff jumping. Facilities are usually simple, with rustic wooden benches and basic amenities.

Location and Access Tips

All cenotes are set within the jungle, providing a beautiful natural setting. Some cenotes are located deep in the jungle and are easily accessible by car with nearby parking. However, if you’re walking, be prepared for a longer trek through the forest to reach the water.

Best Time to Visit

To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, aim to arrive as early as possible. This is especially important on weekends when visitor numbers peak.

Riviera Maya Cenotes Near Puerto Aventuras

Take a look at our top Riviera Maya cenotes, known for their clear waters and striking limestone formations. These natural pools offer refreshing spots for swimming and snorkeling. Whether you’re diving into hidden caves or simply soaking in the calm environment, the Riviera Maya cenotes near Puerto Aventuras provide a unique way to experience this historic region.

Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Cristalino is the definition of easy access and instant beauty. Tucked just off the main highway, this open-air cenote feels like nature’s swimming pool with calm, clear water perfect for a morning dip. You can cliff jump, while families can enjoy the shallower edges and flat rock areas for lounging. Because it’s so close to town, it’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want the full cenote experience. Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially on weekends, and don’t forget water shoes because the rocky bottom can be slippery even for the most balanced traveller.

  1. Entrance: 200 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 8am – 6pm
  3. Distance: Less than 5 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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Cenote Jardín del Edén

Known locally as the “Garden of Eden” this spacious open cenote truly earns its name. Its crystal-clear water is framed by vibrant greenery, with sunlight dancing across the surface an inviting scene for both snorkeling and photography. For those seeking a burst of adrenaline, a high cliff jump plunges you into the deep blue below. It’s become a favorite among visitors, so plan to arrive early if you want to enjoy this particular cenote before the crowds arrive.

  1. Entrance: 200 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 9am – 5pm (Closed Saturdays)
  3. Distance: Less than 5 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul features calm shallow pools as well as deeper areas for swimming, making it a favorite for families and first-time visitors. The water is exceptionally clear, with small fish often swimming nearby. A modest cliff jump adds a hint of adventure, while the open, relaxed setting is what makes Azul especially welcoming. You should bring snacks and water, as facilities are limited at this cenote.

  1. Entrance: 150 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 8:30am – 5pm
  3. Distance: Less than 15 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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Yal-Ku Lagoon, Akumal

Yal-Ku Lagoon is where fresh cenote water meets the Caribbean Sea, creating a rare mix of salt and freshwater that’s home to a colorful array of tropical fish. Its crystal-clear water and gentle currents make it a favorite spot for snorkeling and underwater photography. The lagoon offers shallow areas for easy wading and deeper sections for more confident swimmers. While there’s no cliff jumping here, the peaceful setting makes it ideal for a relaxed day in nature.

  1. Entrance: 300 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 8:30am – 5pm
  3. Distance: 15 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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Casa Cenote

Casa Cenote winds through lush mangroves, giving it the feel of a natural jungle river. Just steps from the bay of Tank Ha, it is one of the few cenotes so close to the sea, separated only by a small road. It is also home to Pancho, a small resident crocodile who has become a local celebrity. Right across from the cenote entrance, a beachfront Mexican restaurant serves great food in a beautiful setting with the sand and waves at your feet. On some days you can even catch live music here, making it the perfect place to pair a refreshing cenote swim with a relaxing beachside meal.

  1. Entrance: 150 – 200 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 8am – 5pm
  3. Distance: 20–25 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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Cenote Yaxkin

Cenote Yaxkin is a quiet cenote for those who prefer to avoid busy spots. Tucked deeper in the jungle, you get the chance to enjoy calm waters and a relaxed, slow-paced atmosphere that invites you to linger. A small restaurant and shop near the entrance sell drinks and snacks, and you can also rent a grate for the on-site BBQ pits to cook your own meal over a charcoal grill. Since it is not widely known, it rarely feels crowded, making it an ideal place to spend the whole day surrounded by nature.

  1. Entrance: 200 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 10am – 5:30pm
  3. Distance: 20 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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Dos Ojos Cenote

Dos Ojos, meaning “Two Eyes,” is more cave than open cenote, making it one of the most striking spots in the Riviera Maya. Its dramatic cave systems and crystal clear water attract divers and adventurous snorkelers from around the world. The two circular pools are linked by underwater passages that reveal an otherworldly landscape of stalactites and stalagmites, while small bat colonies add to the sense of exploring a hidden underground world.

  1. Entrance: 350 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 8am – 5pm
  3. Distance: 20–25 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote combines wide open swimming areas with cave tunnels, creating a setting that draws visitors from all over the world. Turtles often glide through its water, adding a touch of magic to every swim. Being the closest of our cenotes to Tulum, it sees a steady stream of visitors and has become a favorite backdrop for social media influencers. Its popularity means it can get very busy, so arriving early gives you the best chance to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and capture that perfect photo.

  1. Entrance: 500 MXN
  2. Open Hours: 8am – 4:15pm
  3. Distance: 30–35 minutes’ drive from Puerto Aventuras
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