What to Do in and Around Puerto Morelos
Things to do in and around Puerto Morelos during your yoga teacher training.
The wonderful thing about doing your yoga teacher training (YTT) abroad is that it’s also an opportunity to discover a beautiful new place. Our upcoming YTT is taking place in the idyllic Mexican port town of Puerto Morelos and we’re so excited to explore this underrated destination right alongside you this fall. Compared to the more popular tourist destinations in Mexico, Puerto Morelos is a lesser known spot, but it's quickly gaining attention by vacationers and adventure seekers alike, and for good reason!
Puerto Morelos is located in between Playa del Carmen and Cancun, just a 20 minute drive from the Cancun airport. This quaint fishing village is a quieter, more peaceful option than the surrounding tourist towns, while still offering all the wonder and adventure of the Riviera Maya. Be wowed by the colourful coral reef and lush mangroves in this biologically diverse hub along the Caribbean coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula. Puerto Morelos offers the perfect trifecta; it’s near plenty of cenotes, the tropical jungle, and the Caribbean ocean. There is no shortage of things to do in and around Puerto Morelos and we’ve compiled a list of some of the best activities you can get up to on your days off or before or after the training!
Stroll the town
Puerto Morelos is a charming, laid-back town with a friendly atmosphere. As you wander the inviting streets, you’ll feel right at home. The ocean breeze, Caribbean sun, and calming chatter of the small town will remind you of the beauty in slowing down and savouring the simple things in life. Though there aren’t too many major landmarks to visit in the town, just strolling the quiet streets is enough. On the beach, you can spot an important piece of the town’s architecture and history, El Faro Inclinado (The Leaning Lighthouse). The foundation of the lighthouse was destroyed by a hurricane decades ago, which led to its leaning appearance. A new lighthouse was later built behind it, but El Faro Inclinado continues to stand today, a symbol of the town’s strength and resilience.
On weekends, head to the main plaza to browse the pop-up market. This market is a great spot to find souvenirs by local artisans and makers, from jewelry to food. Also, be sure to wake up early one morning to walk down to the water and watch the sunrise along the pier. You won’t regret it!
Go snorkelling or scuba diving along the Barrier Reef
In Puerto Morelos, you’ll find part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world. Even better, the water’s warm temperature and gentle nature make it ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. You’ll be able to spot some wildlife close to the shore, but to get a true glimpse of the reef’s tropical fish and vibrant sea creatures, you’ll need to venture out 400 meters from the shore. Spot colourful corals, eels, bull sharks, stingrays, and countless other species on your snorkelling or scuba diving adventure. Because the reef is a national marine protected area, you must be accompanied by a guide when going out into the National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos.
Go for a dip at the Cenotes
The Yucatan Peninsula is home to thousands of cenotes, which are large freshwater-filled sinkholes formed by underground rivers and collapsed limestone. In Maya cosmology, cenotes were considered to be sacred portals into the underworld. It was believed that the dead would pass through these openings to then be reborn. Today, cenotes act as pools where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in a magical setting.
There are hundreds of cenotes around Puerto Morelos alone. One of the best ways to explore some of them is by going along the Ruta de los Cenotes. This popular biking trail is about 20 km long and leads to 19 cenotes. Along the scenic route, you can also spot exciting wildlife, like iguanas and spider monkeys. Another great cenote to visit nearby is Cenote Boca del Puma. Located just a 20 minute drive from Puerto Morelos, Cenote Boca del Puma is known for its crystal clear water and lush backdrop. There is also a natural reserve and wildlife museum onsite.
Walk among nature and wildlife
One of Mexico’s largest botanical gardens is located near Puerto Morelos. Jardín Botánico Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín (Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín Botanical Garden) is a 65 hectare reserve where you can learn about Yucatan plants, like palms and cactuses. On the site, there is also an orchid garden, an ancient Mayan site, and 2 km of trails where you can spot spider monkeys and different bird species. The Jardín Botánico Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín works to preserve Mayan culture, knowledge, and natural resources.
Also located just outside of Puerto Morelos is the Toolok Kaa’n wildlife sanctuary. Here, you can go on a tour to learn about and get up close and personal with native species, such as crocodiles, snakes, and turtles.
Bask in the sun at Playa Publica
Featuring white sand and blue water, Puerto Morelos’ public beach is the perfect place to swim, relax, and play, featuring white sand and blue water. There are many restaurants and bars lining the beach. You’re also bound to catch a live performance along the sand while you’re lounging.
Enjoy local eats
For a small town, Puerto Morelos’ dining options pack a punch. If you eat fish, you need to try ceviche while here. Most days, you’ll see the fishers carrying their fresh catches up from the beach. For dinner accompanied by dancing and live music, visit La Sirena Restaurant & Bar. For mouth watering vegan tacos and baked goods, go to Veggie Veggie Street Food. For something a bit more upscale, head to Punta Corcho’s rooftop, which offers views of the water.
On the other side of town, you’ll discover a more residential area with many affordable eats. Head to any neighbourhood park in the evening and you’ll find food carts and stands serving tasty local favourites, such as elotes (grilled Mexican street corn) and marquesitas (rolled crepes).
Explore ancient ruins and learn about Mayan culture
There are a number of ancient ruins in Tulum and Coba that you can take a day trip out to from Puerto Morelos, the most notable being Chichén Itzá. Chichén Itzá is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is located 3 hours from Puerto Morelos. You can get there by driving, taking a bus, or joining a tour. Touring this significant archaeological site is a great way to learn about the region’s history and Mayan civilization.
Spend a day on an island
Want a taste of that island life? Take a trip to Cozumel, Hotbox, or Isla Mujeres, all islands near Puerto Morelos. To get to Cozumel, you can drive or take a bus to Playa del Carmen then catch a ferry from there. To get to Holbox, you can drive or take the bus to the ferry terminal in Chiquilá. To get to Isla Mujeres, where you can find the temple of the goddess Ixchel, you can drive or take a bus to Cancun then catch a ferry.
We’re counting down the days until our YTT this fall in the Mexican port town of Puerto Morelos!
You can join us in Puerto Morelos from November 13th to December 8th for our all-inclusive, fully immersive 200 hr yoga teacher training. The training is being hosted at the Lunita Jungle House in Puerto Morelos. This beautiful, boho jungle hotel will place you right within reach of all the exciting things Puerto Morelos has to offer.