Puerto Morelos Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Puerto Morelos with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Puerto Morelos

Located in the state of Quintana Roo, Puerto Morelos is a charming seaside town on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, North America. It is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches, thriving coral reefs, and laid-back vibe. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Puerto Morelos has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Puerto Morelos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Puerto Morelos has a rich history and culture that is waiting to be explored. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in the town include:

  1. The Puerto Morelos lighthouse: Built in 1948, the lighthouse is now a museum that showcases the history of the town and its people.

  2. The Puerto Morelos Reef National Park: This protected marine area is home to a thriving coral reef system that can be explored through snorkeling and diving tours.

  3. Hacienda Morelos Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Puerto Morelos through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.

Natural Attractions of Puerto Morelos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Puerto Morelos has plenty to offer. The town is surrounded by lush jungle, freshwater cenotes, and stunning beaches. Some of the natural attractions you won’t want to miss include:

  1. The Great Maya Reef: Puerto Morelos is home to the second-largest coral reef system in the world, which can be explored through snorkeling and diving tours.

  2. Croco Cun Zoo: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including crocodiles, jaguars, and monkeys.

  3. El Nicho: This natural swimming pool is located in the middle of the jungle and is fed by an underground river. It’s a great spot for swimming and exploring the surrounding jungle.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Morelos

If you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of Puerto Morelos on foot or by bike, there are several scenic hiking and biking routes to choose from. Some of the popular routes include:

  1. Punta Brava Nature Reserve: This reserve is home to a network of trails that wind through the jungle and offer stunning views of the coastline.

  2. Botanical Gardens: The gardens are home to a variety of plants and animals and offer several hiking trails that wind through the lush jungle.

  3. Jungle Route: This route takes you through the jungle and along the coast, offering stunning views of the natural beauty of Puerto Morelos.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Morelos: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do and see in Puerto Morelos, from exploring the coral reefs to taking in the local culture. Some of the best activities and tours to consider include:

  1. Snorkeling and Diving Tours: Puerto Morelos is home to a thriving coral reef system that can be explored through snorkeling and diving tours.

  2. Cenote Tours: The freshwater cenotes in the area offer a unique swimming experience and can be explored through guided tours.

  3. Food and Drink Tours: Sample the local cuisine and beverages by taking a food and drink tour of the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Morelos

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Puerto Morelos, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1-2: Explore the coral reefs through snorkeling and diving tours.

Day 3: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Tulum to explore the ancient Mayan ruins.

Day 4: Relax on the beach and take in the local culture by visiting the Hacienda Morelos Museum.

Day 5: Take a cenote tour and explore the natural beauty of the area.

Day 6: Go hiking or biking along one of the scenic routes in the area.

Day 7: Take a food and drink tour to sample the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Morelos

Must-Try Dishes

Puerto Morelos is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine. Some of the dishes you won’t want to miss include:

  1. Ceviche: A fresh and flavorful seafood dish made with lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.

  2. Tamales: Steamed corn dough filled with a variety of ingredients, such as chicken, pork, or beans.

  3. Tortas: A Mexican sandwich made with fresh bread, meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

To quench your thirst while in Puerto Morelos, try some of the local beverages:

  1. Horchata: A refreshing beverage made with rice, cinnamon, and sugar.

  2. Margaritas: A classic Mexican cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.

  3. Cerveza: The local beer in Mexico, which is commonly served with lime and salt.

Where to Stay in Puerto Morelos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Puerto Morelos offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Some of the top choices include:

  1. Grand Residences Riviera Cancun: A luxurious beachfront resort that offers spacious suites, a spa, and several dining options.

  2. The Fives Oceanfront: A family-friendly resort that offers spacious suites, a private beach, and several dining options.

  3. Acamaya Reef Cabañas: A budget-friendly guesthouse that features rustic acommodations, a beachfront location, and a restaurant.

What to Buy in Puerto Morelos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Puerto Morelos is home to several local artisans and markets that offer unique souvenirs and products. Some of the top items to consider are:

  1. Handmade Mexican pottery: Beautifully crafted pottery that is unique to the region.

  2. Handcrafted jewelry: Find unique jewelry designs that incorporate local gems and materials.

  3. Mexican textiles: Purchase handmade textiles and fabrics that are designed and crafted by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, cuisine, and traditions. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions. Some of the customs and traditions to keep in mind include:

  1. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  2. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.

  3. Respect the environment by not littering and using eco-friendly products when possible.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Morelos

The best time to visit Puerto Morelos is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and pleasant, and there is little to no rainfall. The high season is from December to February, so expect higher prices and larger crowds during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Morelos

Do:

  1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.

  2. Wear sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.

  3. Tip for good service in restaurants and other service industries.

Don’t:

  1. Drink the tap water. Stick to bottled water and other beverages.

  2. Leave valuables unattended on the beach or in public areas.

  3. Engage in illegal drug activity. This can result in severe penalties under Mexican law.

Safety and Health

Safety in Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is generally a safe town, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Some tips to stay safe include:

  1. Avoid walking alone at night.

  2. Keep valuables out of sight and secure in your hotel room.

  3. Only take official taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles.

Health in Puerto Morelos

Visitors should be up to date on their routine vaccinations before traveling to Puerto Morelos. It is also recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid. Mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus, are present in the area, so be sure to use insect repellent and take other precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Puerto Morelos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Puerto Morelos

The closest airport to Puerto Morelos is Cancun International Airport, which is located approximately 17 miles northeast of the town. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or transfer service to Puerto Morelos.

Bus Stations Near Puerto Morelos

There are several bus stations located near Puerto Morelos that offer transportation to and from other parts of Mexico. The main bus station in town, ADO, offers service to Cancun and other nearby destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private transfer service to get to Puerto Morelos from Cancun or other nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a small town that is easily explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and car rental services are also available for those who wish to travel further afield.

Where to Go Next from Puerto Morelos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore from Puerto Morelos. Some of the top choices include:

  1. Xcaret Eco-Park: A nearby eco-park that offers a variety of activities and attractions, including swimming with dolphins and exploring a butterfly pavilion.

  2. Playa del Carmen: A bustling town that is known for its nightlife, shopping, and dining options.

  3. Cozumel: An island that is located a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen and is known for its beaches, snorkeling, and diving opportunities.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, Puerto Morelos has something for everyone. From exploring the coral reefs to sampling the local cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this charming seaside town. Plan your visit today and discover all that Puerto Morelos has to offer!

The original Lighthouse at Puerto Morelos, Mexico as shown in February 2007. In 1967, the structure was tilted over by the winds of Hurricane Beulah. This leaning lighthouse has since survived Hurricanes Gilbert in 1987 and Wilma in 2005, but has not been knocked down. A new functional light house for the port is visible in the background. The old Leaning Lighthouse (Faro Inclinado) remains as a symbol of the town. The original Lighthouse at Puerto Morelos, Mexico as shown in February 2007. In 1967, the structure was tilted over by the winds of Hurricane Beulah. This leaning lighthouse has since survived Hurricanes Gilbert in 1987 and Wilma in 2005, but has not been knocked down. A new functional light house for the port is visible in the background. The old Leaning Lighthouse (Faro Inclinado) remains as a symbol of the town.