Welcome to Casa Nalum, your eco-chic home in Sian Ka’an, Tulum, Mexico. We help families and friends plan the best trip with easy access to the Caribbean Sea and the Mayan lagoon. From our private pool, you can grab kayaks and board games free, then head out to see the best tulum water activities near our villa. In this guide, we share 10 fun water tours you can do, plus tips to make your stay smooth and safe.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Water Activities in Tulum
1. Snorkeling at Yal-Ku Lagoon
Enjoy clear waters and tropical fish at Yal-Ku Lagoon, just 15 minutes from Casa Nalum. This calm inlet mixes fresh and salt water, giving you the best views of marine life.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (1,122 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Budget-friendly
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📍 Location: 77776 Quintana Roo, Mexico
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📞 Phone: +528552685435
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⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
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Learn more about Yal-Ku Lagoon
Snorkel above tropical fish and sea turtles. The calm water makes it easy for families. You can rent gear on site or bring your own to feel at home. It’s also one of the top lagoons to visit in Tulum.
2. Cave Diving at Dos Ojos Cenote
Dive into the famous Dos Ojos Cenote for a unique underwater cave tour. This activity is perfect for certified divers who want to see rock formations and dark caverns.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (7,523 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Mid-range
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📞 Phone: +529989800664
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⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
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Learn more about Dos Ojos Cenote
Dive slots fill quickly, so book early. Casa Nalum’s concierge can help you find a guide and gear rental to enjoy the caves safely.
3. Kayaking on Caapechen Lagoon
Paddle from Casa Nalum’s back door into Caapechen Lagoon. This hidden path in Sian Ka’an is home to bird nests and gentle fish.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (5,349 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Low cost, free for villa guests
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📍 Location: 77760 Tulum, Quintana Roo
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⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
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Learn more about Laguna de Kaan Luum
4. Muyil River Float in Sian Ka’an
Step into a life jacket and float down a natural river built by the Mayans. This lazy river tour lets you relax and learn about ancient canals.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (3,888 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Mid-range
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📍 Location: Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Quintana Roo
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⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
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Learn more about Muyil River Float
The river’s clear water and ancient ruins make it a top pick. Our villa team can book your tour to secure a spot in this limited group adventure.
5. Standup Paddleboarding at Xel-Há Inlet
Try standup paddleboarding in Xel-Há Inlet for calm waters and marine life underfoot. This park also has zip-lines and cliff jumps over the water.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (57,449 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Park entry fee applies
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📞 Phone: +529988833143
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⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily
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Learn more about Xel-Há Park
You can rent boards and gear on site. Casa Nalum guests get tips on the best spots in the inlet for a safe, fun ride.
6. Cliff Jumps at Xel-Há Park
For an adrenaline rush, try cliff jumps in Xel-Há Park. Platforms range from low to high, all landing in clear water below.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (57,449 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Park entry fee applies
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📍 Location: Carretera Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 240, 77780 Q.R.
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⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Cliff jumping is a quick thrill. Guides watch for safety and give pointers. Combine this with a lazy river float for a full day of fun.
7. Boat Tour to Tulum Reef
Board a small boat from Tulum Beach for a half-day reef tour. Swim with sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.3/5 (66 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Mid-range
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📞 Phone: +529841081040
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⏰ Hours: 9:45 AM – 4:30 PM daily
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Learn more about Tulum Reef
8. Snorkeling at Punta Allen
Head south to the remote Punta Allen Snorkeling Area. With few tourists, you can swim with wild manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (419 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Mid-range
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📞 Phone: +529841342751
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⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM daily
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Learn more about Punta Allen Snorkeling Area
A guide’s boat picks you up early. Expect a day of amazing wildlife and clear water. Casa Nalum’s staff can help with the roundtrip transport.
9. Cave Diving in Cenote Car Wash
For a deep dive, explore the Car Wash Cenote with trained divers. See tree roots and rock art under the sinkhole’s surface.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.4/5 (262 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Mid-range
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📍 Location: 77797 Rancho Viejo, Quintana Roo
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Learn more about Cenote Car Wash
Cave diving needs a PADI guide. Casa Nalum can connect you with certified teams and arrange gear rental for a safe dive.
10. Cenote Hopping at Gran Cenote
Swim and snorkel in Gran Cenote to see turtles and underwater caves. The sunbeams through the water make for great photos.
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⭐ Ratings: 4.3/5 (7,856 reviews)
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💵 Price Level: Inexpensive
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📍 Location: 77796 Quintana Roo
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Learn more about Gran Cenote
Gran Cenote is walking distance from the main road. It gets busy at noon, so we suggest a morning visit to enjoy quieter waters.
Tips & Tricks from Casa Nalum
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Pack Light: Quick-dry clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, and bug spray.
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Stay Early: Start activities at 8:00 AM to beat crowds and heat.
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Local Links: Learn more about our tours at experiences at Casa Nalum.
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Eat Well: Book our Meal Plan service for fresh meals daily.
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Book Tours Early: Popular excursions sell out fast—reserve through our concierge.
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Respect Nature: Follow no-trace rules on beaches and cenotes.
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Need help? Send a message to Casa Nalum and we’ll be happy to assist.
Conclusion
Tulum water activities are easy to reach from Casa Nalum. Whether you snorkel in cenotes, kayak in mangroves, or float down a Mayan river, you can do it all with our expert team. After each adventure, return to your private villa for a chef-prepared meal and a dip in the pool. We make every part of your trip smooth and fun.
Ready to plan your Tulum water activities? Book your stay today and dive into paradise!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water in Tulum?
We advise against using tap water for brushing or drinking. Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any tummy trouble.
Can you go in the water in Tulum?
Yes! You can snorkel, dive, and swim most of the year. Cenotes are open year-round, and the reefs are best from November to April.
How much is a boat ride in Tulum?
Boat tours start at around $350 USD per hour for private charters. Group snorkel tours are more budget-friendly, often around $50 USD per person.
Can you still swim at Tulum ruins?
Yes, you can swim at the beach below the Tulum ruins. It’s a great way to cool off after your visit. Watch for current changes and keep to the marked swim areas.
What should I pack for water activities?
Bring quick-dry clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a waterproof phone pouch.
Do I need my own gear?
Most tours and cenotes rent gear onsite. Bringing your own mask and snorkel can save time and ensure a perfect fit.
How do I get to Casa Nalum?
Here’s how to find Casa Nalum in the beautiful Sian Ka’an Biosphere.
