Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park

Arrecifes de Cozumel is a protected marine area off the coast of Cozumel Island in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The water territory runs along the southern side of the island and includes coral formations, steep underwater walls and shallow lagoons near the shore.

The area was officially designated a national park in July 1996 to protect the coral reefs from increasing tourist use. This measure followed years of efforts by biologists and local groups who had documented the decline of underwater habitats.

Local fishermen and dive communities view the reefs as part of their daily lives and respect the protected zones while working and guiding guests. Many island residents have adapted their way of life to balance tourism with the preservation of the underwater world.

Visitors can enter the marine area only with registered operators who must follow set routes and protection guidelines. Dives and snorkeling trips usually take place in the morning when the water is calmest and visibility remains best.

Some coral walls drop over 100 feet (30 meters) vertically and form natural tunnels through which divers can swim. In these deeper areas, sponges grow in bright colors that do not appear in shallow water.