One of the most magical things about the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is its cenotes. The best way it’s been described to me is that the entire peninsula is like Swiss cheese, with access holes to underground water systems all connected through intricate cave systems covered by thick jungle. I absolutely love swimming, diving and relaxing at the cenotes while on the peninsula.

But here’s the thing, not everyone is a confident swimmer. And honestly, that’s competely fine! You absolutely don’t need to be a strong swimmer to enjoy swimming here. Many have shallow sections, waist deep water or provide/require life jackets. I roamed around so many cenotes near Tulum to bring you this list if you want to swim in shallow cenotes.

What you should know before visiting a cenote

What exactly is a cenote?

Here’s a fun fact for you: cenotes are linked to the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs! Hundreds of cenotes formed after the impact which fractured the limestone structure.

With all the fractures in the limestone, it allowed rainwater to flow through, dissolving part of the limestone formations. This in turn created the cenotes, caverns and river networks. The limestone on the surface collapses and exposes the freshwater beneath. So really, a cenote is a freshwater sinkhole. They were sacred to the Mayan civilization.

Are cenotes safe for non-swimmers?

Yes, many are! But depths vary hughly between the cenotes so choosing the right one matters. Some have dedicated swimming platforms.

Are there dangerous animals in the cenotes?

There’s no sharks, no crocodiles in the ones you can swim, no dangerous animals. You might see tiny fish, some intricate rock formations and maybe bats in some of the cave cenotes!

Tips for visiting a cenote:

Don’t wear sunscreen/lotions.

This is a non-negotiable. However, you can pollute the waters in the cenotes. The chemicals from our sunscreen can seep into the local drinking water supply, contaminating it. It is the main source of freshwater in the peninsula.

In other cases like Bacalar, it damages the fragile ecosystem. 

Bring sun protection.

So how can you protect yourself from the harsh midday sun? This is probably my favourite item in my backpack – a UV shirt. Or you can use what you already have – maybe a linen shirt 🙂 

Don’t forget a hat!

Obviously, we don’t want to get sunburns on our faces so a hat is a good idea.

Bring cash (MXN).

Many entrances, lockets and rentals are cash only. There may be some that accepts card but be on the safe side and bring Mexican pesos! A lot of the cenotes will only accept cash so it’s a good idea to withdraw some to pay for entrances, lockers, and life jacket deposits.

Pack water and food.

This heavily depends on which cenote you visit. The local, smaller cenotes are completely fine if you bring some food with you. Probably best to avoid food with the larger/touristy cenotes.

Go early.

Not so much for photos but mainly because it offers a quieter environment to get comfortable with your surroundings and feel less overwhelmed – especially if you are already nervous about the water.

Best Cenotes & Lagoons for Non-Swimmers

Gran Cenote, Tulum

500 mxn per person
0800hrs – 1645hrs daily
Life vests are required to be worn
Lines can get really long and it can get crowded quickly so be sure to go early.

Tip: the shallower side of the cenote is where you get this insta-famous photo if that tickles your fancy.

This is probably the most famous of the cenotes in Tulum. It is on the crowded and more expensive side but it’s a great option if you are with a group of mixed swimming abilities. Closer to the entrance, the water depth is deep and you’re able to explore the cave at the back. On the further side of the cenote (about 2 mins from the main cenote), there is a shallowed part of the cenote where you’re able to stand, ideal for a non-swimmer. A cool tidbit is that you can swim between the two sections through a swim-through.

Laguna Kaan Luum, Tulum

300 mxn per person
0900hrs – 1600hrs daily

While this isn’t a cenote, it’s a really cool place to visit especially in your endeavors for non-swimmer -friendly places. There is an area dedicated to swimming. At its deepest part, the water comes up to your waist. It is a really fun place to spend the afternoon, especially with family/friends. There are hammocks and swings along the swimming area. There are jetties you can sit on or there are some spots with hammocks/seating if you decide to have a picnic. Be sure to come early to get a hammock on the shore! Another cool thing Laguna Kaan Luum has is a small lookout. From here you can see the deep blue colour towards the center of the lagoon.

Tip: You can rent kayaks or SUP boards and explore outside of the swimming area for an extra fee.

Cenote Zemway, Tulum

250 mxn per person.
0930hrs – 1700hrs daily
Life vest included and can be worn if wanted.

As of spring 2022, this is a recently open cenote and has undergone some construction making it still quite quiet and mostly where the locals visit. Included in the price are life vests, however they are not a requirement to use. There are several sitting places along the opening of the cenote and a grand staircase that takes you down to the water. Near the entry point, there’s a platform that’s approximately 1.2m deep where you can relax and watch daredevils jump off the two diving platforms (5m and 7m high). If you’re a confident swimmer, there’s a rope swing you can use towards the back of the cenote and a little overhang you can relax in.

Non-swimmer friendly spots around Bacalar

Laguna Bacalar, Bacalar

Public areas: Free
Entrance via bars/restaurants: Usually a drink/meal
You can tour around Laguna Bacalar with a private tour or group tour. There are also kayaking tours available.

This is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited in Mexico. Laguna Bacalar is also known as the 7 Colours Lake because of the different hues of blue you can see. It’s quite a spectacular sight on a sunny day. There are a few ways you can explore the lake. Private and group tours are offered every day and they visit a couple of sites around – Cenote Esmeralda, Cenote Negra, Pirate Channel, Bird Island, and a secret spot! All the spots that you’re able to stop for a swim were approximately waist deep so you don’t have to worry if you’re a non-swimmer or swimmer alike! If you prefer, there’s the option of taking a kayaking tour at sunrise on the laguna.

Laguna Bonanza, Bacalar

50 mxn per person.
1000hrs – 1800 hrs daily

Located south of Bacalar, Laguna Bonanza is geared more towards locals. It’s easier to reach if you rent a scooter from downtown Bacalar as it’s quite a distance away. There is a dedicated area for swimming. Unfortunately, some people do leave this area and swim around. There was also the opportunity to hire kayaks/SUP boards and explore the nearby mangrove areas. The shoreline is lined with benches, and hammocks under the shade and there’s even a restaurant on site! Perfect to spend the entire day under the sun.

Sac-Ha, Bacalar

50 mxn per person.
1000hrs – 1800hrs daily

Another super popular site amongst locals. Onsite, there is a restaurant and plenty of space for lounging especially benches and hammocks. You’re also able to hire kayaks here. As it sits across the water from the famous Los Rapidos, you could kayak there and have a peak of Los Rapidos before returning back to Sac-Ha. The whole swimming area is about waist deep but there are places that are deeper. Those are quite far out and you’ll see a darker blue hue.

Cocalitos, Bacalar

50 mxn per person.
0900hrs – 1800hrs daily

Cocalitos is just on the outskirts of Bacalar downtown. However, due to its location, it’s popular amongst tourists and locals alike. From Cocalitos, you can see out into the main body of the Laguna and its multi-hued lagoon. There’s also a good opportunity to see the stromatolites, which Bacalar is famous for. These are nicknamed living rocks and are the largest collection within Mexico and the world! The stromatolites are one of the reasons why the use of sun lotion, even bio-friendly sun lotion is heavily discouraged. 

Bonus: Isla Holbox

Punta Cocos, Isla Holbox

Free entrance
Always opened!
Tip: At night, you can try to see the bioluminescence if you walk to a dark place near the lagoon.

It would be tricky to find deep water in Isla Holbox. Most of the beaches along its coastline are so shallow, that during low tide, sandbanks form and you’re able to enjoy it for a couple of hours before the tides come up and they disappear. Punta Cocos is located on the furthest part of the island and is easily reached by bicycle. Throughout the day, you’ll find food vendors selling some savory (empanadas for example) and refreshing (mangoes and coconuts). There is also a little bar on the shore banks whipping up cocktails and beers. You could very easily cool off lying down in the water whilst enjoying a cold one and it only gets up to knee/waist levels!

FAQ: Visiting Cenotes as a Non-Swimmer

Can I enjoy cenotes if I don’t swim?

Absolutely. Many have shallow areas, platforms, ladders and required life jackets. Others (like lagoons) are waist-deep for large sections.

I know how to swim! Do I have to wear a life jacket?

Depends on the place… Some require it. Others provide them optionally. If it makes you feel safer – wear it. No one cares.

Are cenotes deep?

Some are extremely deep (over 30m) that us scuba divers go diving in them! Others are shallow at entry points. Always check depth before getting in.

Are cenotes cold?

They’re definitely cooler than the ocean. But I’ll say it’s more refreshing rather than freezing. Typically around 24 – 26°C. Especially in the Mexican heat!

Is it safe to visit alone?

Generally yes… especially popular cenotes with staff onsite. If you’re nervous in water, go during busier hours when lifeguards or staff are around.

What’s the best time to visit?

Early morning. Fewer crowds = calmer experience. But honestly, I’ve spent entire days cenote hopping. A great activity to do while in the region.

Can I just go to relax and not swim?

Yes. Many people visit for photos, shade, hammocks and the atmosphere alone. For many locals, it’s actually a hangout spot and for families to spend time together.

Mexico’s cenotes and lagoons are magic

Alas, there you have it! If you’re visiting the Yucatan Peninsula as a non-swimmer or even as a swimmer, these are some of my favourite spots to enjoy a shallow dip. You absolutely don’t have to miss out on any of the beauty if you’re not confident with your swimming skills. These places have been tried and tested by a family member who is a non-swimmer and she absolutely loved them! If you give any of these places a visit, be sure to let me know! If there are any other shallow places you’ve swum before, be sure to drop a comment below so we can check it out the next time we’re over.