The most accessible and most beautiful of the cenotes near Tulum, Gran Cenote sits just four kilometres west of town along the road to Cobá. The open-air pool connects to a partially submerged cave system where stalactites hang close to the water's surface and small turtles drift through the clear fresh water. Snorkelling here costs a few dollars and requires no experience; certified divers can go deeper into the cave passages with a guide. The water temperature is a constant 24°C year-round. Arrive early — by midmorning the site fills with tour groups.
Gran Cenote
Crystal-clear cave pool with stalactites and turtles