Chankanaab Beach Park Review, Cozumel, Mexico

On our first visit to Cozumel, Mexico, we enjoyed the Fury Snorkel and Beach Excursion. Returning on my latest cruise, I decided to try something different. The options were vast. I opted to visit Chankanaab Beach Park. Within one park, I had access to many activities. It looked like a good option.
How was it? Read on to see.
Chankanaab Beach Park

Our ship docked at the southernmost of Cozumel's three piers. Chankanaab Beach Park lies less than a 10 minute commute further south. If you are staying in or are docked at San Miguel, then the drive will take closer to 20 minutes. It is both a popular cruise shore excursion and destination for travelers staying on Cozumel.

Chankanaab Beach Park lies on the western coast of Cozumel. You can lounge on the beach. Rent snorkel equipment or bring your own and dive into the clear, warm, turquoise water. Race down a zip line. Peruse a botanic garden. Learn about Mexican history in the history park. Sample and buy tequila. Watch a sea lion show. Eat at one of the restaurants. Shop for gifts. Or, swim with dolphins. * I personally will not do dolphin swims for concern about their treatment.
My Experience

We were picked up at the docks and took the short ride to the park. Our guide, Jorge from Tripping Cool, was waiting for us. He would lead us through our entire visit. Our first activity was snorkeling. We walked through the park to the beach area with Jorge pointing out what there was to do along the way.
After picking up our snorkeling gear, which was included in the cost, we were ready. We had the option of leaving our stuff on a beach chair or of renting a locker for $5. Most of chose to rent a locker.
Snorkeling

Jorge guided us through our snorkeling tour. This was only my fourth time to snorkel. So, I am by no means an expert. This was my favorite experience of the four. A multitude of colorful fish swam all around. I saw my first barracuda! It was small, but cool. Coral clung to the sea floor. Jorge even pointed out a snake. It was quite deep; so it was okay.
A statue of Jesus stands with arms stretched. I somehow missed a statue the Virgin Mary. The barrel of a Spanish canon from colonial times lies in the depths and was easily viewed.
The snorkeling experience lasted about 45 minutes. We walked out onto the beach. A small stingray was gliding in the shallows as I exited. This was wonderful experience.
Guacamole

After drying off and changing, we received a short lesson on how to make guacamole. Using the colors of the Mexican flag, green (avocado), white (onion), and red (tomato), with a little extra salt, lime and cilantro, a delicious guacamole was constructed. We each tried a sample of this tasty treat.
After the guacamole lesson, we had about an hour to explore. Many chose to lounge on the beautiful beach. Others sipped cerveza and ate more guacamole at the restaurant. I chose to wander through the botanical and history gardens.
Botanical Garden








History Trail

Tequila



Sea Lion Show

Cost/Value

The Chankanaab Beach Park shore excursion costs less than any of the other options. At $49, I believe that it was a huge bargain. Adding $5 for a locker rental does not change that. The tour lasted approximately four hours. We arrived back at our ship before the heat of the afternoon.
For an extra charge, you can swim with dolphins or soar along a zip line. Cozumel is flat, so soar may stretching it.
Recommendations

This is not a sponsored post!
Chankanaab Beach Park provides something for everyone. While my excursion was for a half day, a full day could easily be spent here. Whether cruising the Caribbean or vacationing in Cozumel, Chankanaab Beach Park will provide your family a wonderful day in paradise.
When choosing an excursion, I highly recommend Tripping Cool, who led our tour. The price is low and the value high. Ask for our guide, Jorge Del Monte. He is exceptional.

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Comments
Brook Massey
6 years ago#2
Brook Massey
6 years ago#1
Nicole Chardenet I whole-heartedly agree. Chankanaab is an amazing and beautiful place. You are one of the very few people that I found who know about it.