Cenote Azul

An open-air cenote right on the highway near Xpu-Ha, big enough that it rarely feels packed even though local families come here a lot. There is one main swimming area and several smaller, quieter pools off to the side, with small fish to snorkel over and a rock ledge about four metres high to jump from.

You wander at your own pace, with no guided tour. Life jackets, snorkels and lockers are rented on site against a cash deposit, and there are changing rooms, a snack stand and a parking lot that fills up. The rules are strict: a shower before you go in, and no sunscreen of any kind (biodegradable included), no repellent or makeup, no alcohol and no glass. Open every day from morning to late afternoon.