Catch A Glimpse Of What Heaven Looks Like At Cozumel’s El Cielo

 

 

Updated July 30, 2024

 

Heaven Is Closer Than You Think

 

With thousands of images of exotic, tropical destinations streaming through our social media everyday, we can’t help but feel inspired to plan our next vacation. For certain, I cannot be the only one with visions of bungalows in the Maldives. The problem is that that the flights to these travel magazine-worthy places can cost thousands of dollars! But what if I told you there are otherworldly spots just as alluring right here in North America – that wont’ break the bank?

Once place in particular has water so profoundly striking, you gasp as you come upon it. You’re met with the kind of love at first sight that makes your knees buckle. There is only one word that comes close to describing the beauty of this breathtaking scene, and that is ‘Heaven’.

 

Indeed, El Cielo (meaning ‘Heaven’ in Spanish) is one of those surreal destinations that you don’t believe exist until you see it for yourself. However, up until a short while ago, the locals of Cozumel have been able to keep this Mexican Caribbean jewel a secret. In fact, tours have only become popular in the last few years.

The good news is there is no code word needed to gain access to this hidden paradise. It’s no longer classified local information. It seems that Cozumel residents realized it would be a grave injustice if they kept this magical destination from the world.

The great news is you don’t have to spend thousands on a plane ticket to experience this rare natural beauty. So read on to discover how to visit one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s most extraordinary sights (and that says a lot because there are literally thousands of them!)

 

 

Sergio Saves The Day

 

A crew of twenty of us booked a boat tour to visit El Cielo recently to celebrate a birthday. Three days prior to our Sunday funday, I received a phone call from the original company we had booked with. They regretted to inform me that our reservation had been canceled. We had planned this excursion for over a month and we had invited out-of-town guests to celebrate with us. Obviously, I was beyond disappointed and tried not to melt down.

I sent the call out for help to all who might have a reliable El Cielo tour recommendation. One of my neighbors passed me a contact number for Aquatic Sports in Cozumel. To my delight, a boat was available that could accommodate our group.

On the day of the trip to El Cielo, the group met at the Playa del Carmen ferry terminal on Benito Juarez and the beach near the south end of 5th Avenue.The costs are approximately $290 pesos ($15.50USD) each way. Children 12 and under pay $230 pesos ($12.20USD). The ferry to Cozumel takes about 45 minutes.Once we disembarked, we walked outside to the left to catch a van taxi. With 20 people, we needed two at $350 pesos ($19 USD) each. It was a quick 8 minutes ride to Aquatic Sports.

I cannot speak highly enough about Sergio and his team. Together, Sergio, his friendly Capitan and assistant met us on the dock to greet us. While the tour operators prepped the boat with food, ice for the coolers, and beverages, I did a quick survey.

After taking note of the ample space and excellent condition, my worries were put to rest. The lower level was open and had plenty of shaded seating. The bow offered more seating and the perfect spot to stretch out and bask in the sun. A spiraling staircase led to the upper level where the Capitan sat. A flat deck behind him presented a prime vantage point from which to appreciate the turquoise seascape. Coolers filled with ice, water and pop were provided. We asked ahead of time and Sergio allowed us to bring our own beer.

 

The Day We Realized Heaven Is For Real

 

The 5-hour tour began with a stop at a reef about half an hour away. Known for some of the clearest water in the world, Cozumel is a prime destination for snorkeling and diving. Despite an incredible underwater experience filled with impressive coral colonies and color fish, we opted to skip the second reef stop. Our enthusiasm got the best of us, so Sergio took us straight to El Cielo.

There was no need for the Captain to announce our arrival. As we sailed along Cozumel’s coast, the waters turned from a beautiful turquoise to a crystal clear blue. We had arrived at The Promised Land, (or promised bay rather!)

From the top platform of the boat, we were able to see stingrays gliding along the sea floor from a hundred yards away. The water was as translucent as a swimming pool and we had it almost all to ourselves, with the exception of a catamaran in the distance.

 

 

It was a hot and sunny day, which made us eager to cool ourselves in the inviting water. Although there was an area of sea grass, we did not see any turtles. However, we did encounter speedy, little groupers camouflaged by the soft, white sand. Angelfish swam by in pairs and the kids were thrilled to see starfish. Several inquisitive stingrays also came over to investigate, which was both terrifying and spectacular at the same time.

Since snorkel gear and life jackets were included in the cost of the tour, the kids suited up and dove in. The adults were not far behind. As we swam, the Captain and his assistant prepared a light lunch for us. On other boat tours, we’ve received a typical sandwich accompanied by a handful of potato chips. But I have to say this company once again, went above and beyond as far as customer service goes. With a tuna salad, guacamole and tortilla chips, a mixed fruit platter and traditional Mexican tortas, we could eat only half of the delicious spread and were more than satisfied.

We spent over two hours exploring the area and swimming alongside a variety of fascinating marine life. While the adults waded in the glistening waters with their ice-cold beverages, the daring kiddos spent the afternoon jumping from the upper level into the mesmerizing blue sea.

 

 

It was hard to leave this magical spot, but our time was up. The children still had energy to spare so we asked the Captain to drop us off at Paradise Beach at the south end of the hotel zone in Cozumel. There are several beach clubs along this shoreline that offer access to inflatables on the water. After inquiring at a couple of the beach clubs, we found one with free access to the inflatables as long as we consumed something from the menu.

 

 

Half the group elected to sit in chairs beneath some towering palms. The rest of us chose to lounge near the water to keep an eye on the kids as they bounced around on the inflatable structures. They came ashore to grab a nibble of ceviche and then went right back out. There was just enough time before the sunset, to sip on one last mojito. It was a perfect end to an unforgettable day.

 

What to Know About An El Cielo Tour

 

• If you choose Aquatic Sports, the tour lasts 5-6 hours with 2 stops along the barrier reef off the coast of Cozumel. The reef system in the area is healthy and vibrant, offering some of the best snorkeling on the planet!
• We cannot stress this enough – wear biodegradable sunblock so that the marine life will survive for many years to come. Also, observe and please do not touch the coral and other sea life.
• Bring towels and a go pro camera to capture some amazing photos.
• For group bookings, there are two options available regarding capacity. The first one is a maximum of 20 passengers, the second can accommodate up to 30 people. In order for the tour to be offered, there must be a minimum of 10 bookings.
• As stated above, the tour lasts from 5-6 hours, this does not include the ferry, so you can expect to be gone from Playa del Carmen for approximately 8-9 hours with the travel time.

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Cozumel is a fantastic day trip or overnight getaway from Playa del Carmen. There are quality tequila tasting tours, Mayan ruins, a Cacao museum, water parks and much more to explore. If you’re planning to spend a day in Cozumel, speak to our knowledgeable BRIC ambassador team about details for fun and adventure!