Chankanaab National Park on the beachfront at Cozumel offers a selection of the best things the Riviera Maya has to offer. If you have limited time to explore the Riviera Maya, then Chankanaab is a good place to go as you will get to experience a little of everything. Chankanaab’s sheltered waters are popular with beginner snorkelers and divers, and the parks abundant attractions, from dolphin shows to ancient ruins, make it a hit with young families.
Begin your visit with a walk through the jungle, either on a free guided tour or by following the jungle paths on your own.
Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery by morning, and in the afternoon scuba dive or snorkel through a wonderland of tropical fish and stunning marine gardens. There are also limestone caves in the inland lagoon to explore.
For non-divers keen to experience the underwater world, the Sea Trek Helmet Dive gives visitors the chance to walk on the ocean floor wearing a special helmet and breathing apparatus.
Immerse yourself in the history of one of the world’s great civilizations at the various Mayan ruins, and stroll through the botanical gardens and discover more than 350 species of tropical plants on display. Still feeling energetic? Rent a sea kayak, go sailing or join in a game of beach volleyball on the courts. When it’s time to relax, book a treatment or massage at one of the spas, or simply climb into an empty hammock and order up a margarita.
The park is open daily and there is an admission fee. Attractions such as Dolphin Discovery and Sea Trek Helmet Dive have additional fees.
To get to Chankanaab National Park, take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. Once at Cozumel, rent a car or motorbike, or hail a taxi or minivan.
Chankanaab National Park Tours
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Browse tours and tickets to explore Chankanaab National Park
Tours & day trips
See all 272 activitiesOpens in new tabCustom Private Cozumel Jeep Tour: All-Inclusive Tour
Adventure & outdoor
See all 95 activitiesOpens in new tabCustom Private Cozumel Jeep Tour: All-Inclusive Tour
History & culture
See all 63 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Cozumel: Express Tour to Tulum Mayan Ruins
Classes & workshops
See all 31 activitiesOpens in new tabFlavorful Taco Adventure Workshop
Wildlife & nature
See all 21 activitiesOpens in new tabCozumel Reef Adventure with Snorkeling & Lunch
Reviews of Chankanaab National Park
2/5 - Disappointing
the Park had no parking. We were unable to go because it was so busy.
3/5 - Okay
Beach & facilities are super. We paid for the all inclusive day pass but were only allowed to eat & get drinks in certain areas which is insane. We ended up having to buy our drinks instead of walking far to these locations .. the buffet was jam packed, long lines & food was not great. The kids swam with the dolphins which they enjoyed. Pics were expensive $40 each or a $135 for the package. Diving staff was super!!! Nice place just eneded up being expensive! A family of 4 we spent $475 there
4/5 - Good
Chankanaab has become quite an attraction. It used to be so quiet! There are some good snorkeling areas, and it's cool to see the iguanas around the lagoon. It might be worth the time if you're coming off a cruise ship, but our resort was way better!
4/5 - Good
Wake up and take shuttle early. Breakfast not open. Then we started an extensive tour to the ferry to Cozumel to do the Punta Sur and Chankanaab. The only thing is, that the resort Barcelo didn't coordinate with this tour to offer some type of breakfast. So if you are staying at Barcelo, plan to have an alternative breakfast as you will wake up too early for breakfast to be open and lunch is at 1230 after some hiking around.
5/5 - Excellent
Wonderful place with sand beach and waiters to bring beverages. Snorkelng, dolphin swim, shops and bar/restaurant. Fun for all ages.
5/5 - Excellent
Snorkeling fun but few fish. Recommend taking cash for beverages and food by the beach. When I requested Life jacket, they requested ID. Since I didn't have one, he did give me one.
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