Cenote Cristal: Crystal Clear Waters Near Tulum

Cenote Cristal is an open-air cenote 5km south of Tulum with crystal-clear water (30+ meter visibility), wooden jumping platforms, and entry for 150-200 pesos. Unlike cave cenotes, it's fully exposed to sunlight, creating a jungle swimming hole atmosphere. Great for swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and photography. Here's everything you need to know.

What Makes Cenote Cristal Special

Cenote Cristal is an open cenote, meaning it's fully exposed to the sky rather than being in a cave. The result is a beautiful natural pool surrounded by jungle, with sunlight streaming down into impossibly clear water. You can see straight to the bottom, where fish swim among the rocks and vegetation.

The cenote gets its name from the crystal clarity of its water—visibility can exceed 30 meters on good days. The combination of fresh groundwater and limestone filtration creates conditions that make the water appear almost unreal.

The Setting

Unlike cave cenotes, Cristal feels more like a jungle swimming hole:

• Open to the sky - Full sunlight for most of the day
• Surrounded by trees - Lush vegetation along the edges
• Wooden platforms - For jumping and lounging
• Shallow and deep areas - Options for all comfort levels
• Fish and turtles - Wildlife visible in the clear water

Swimming and Activities

Cenote Cristal is excellent for:

• Swimming - Refreshing freshwater at a constant cool temperature
• Snorkeling - Bring your own gear to explore underwater
• Cliff jumping - Platforms at various heights for jumping
• Photography - The light and clarity create stunning conditions
• Relaxing - Lounge areas to enjoy the scenery

Practical Information

• Location: About 5 km south of Tulum on the road to Cobá
• Entry fee: Around 150-200 pesos (prices change)
• Facilities: Bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, small snack bar
• Life jackets: Available and sometimes required
• Hours: Generally 9am-5pm

Getting There

Cenote Cristal is easy to reach:

• From Tulum: About 10 minutes south on the Cobá road
• From Playa del Carmen: About 50 minutes
• By car: Signed from the main road; parking available
• By taxi/colectivo: Easy to arrange from Tulum
• By bike: Possible from Tulum town, but it's hot

Cenote Escondido: The Neighbor

Right next to Cenote Cristal is Cenote Escondido (Hidden Cenote). Your entry fee often includes both cenotes. Escondido is slightly larger and equally beautiful—worth visiting both if you have time. A short jungle path connects them.

Tips for Your Visit

• No sunscreen - Shower before entering; chemicals harm the ecosystem
• Bring water shoes - Rocks can be slippery
• Arrive early - Fewer crowds, better light
• Bring snorkel gear - The cenote provides some, but your own is better
• Cash only - Credit cards often not accepted
• Weekdays are quieter - Weekends get busy

Best Time to Visit

Cenote Cristal is enjoyable year-round, but consider:

• Morning: Best light, fewer people
• Weekdays: Much quieter than weekends
• Dry season (Nov-April): Less rain, but also peak tourist season
• Afternoon: More crowded but still beautiful

The Bottom Line

Cenote Cristal is one of the most accessible and photogenic cenotes near Tulum. Its crystal-clear water, open-air setting, and proximity to town make it an easy choice for a refreshing break from the beach. Combine it with nearby Cenote Escondido for a perfect cenote day, and you'll understand why these natural swimming holes are one of the Yucatan's greatest treasures.

Related Tulum Cenote Guides

• Explore Tulum - Complete destination guide
• Coba Ruins Guide - Nearby attraction on same road
• Free Things in Tulum - Budget activities

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