Casa Cenote (Cenote Manatí)

Casa Cenote, also widely known as Cenote Manatí, sits in Tankah Bay a short drive north of Tulum along the coastal road toward Akumal, directly across from the Caribbean shoreline. Unlike the classic cave or sinkhole cenotes further inland, Casa Cenote is open-air and river-like — a long, winding channel of clear, brackish water lined with mangroves, formed where fresh groundwater from the aquifer mixes with seawater through an underground connection to the ocean just across the road. That mix of fresh and salt water supports a noticeably rich mangrove and fish habitat, and the cenote is popular for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking or paddleboarding along its calm surface. Its name comes from manatees that were historically seen in these waters, though sightings have become rare in recent decades; a resident crocodile, well known to local guides, is also sometimes spotted here, so visitors are asked to keep a respectful distance from wildlife and follow posted signage and guide instructions. A dive shop, restaurant, and small hotel operate at the site, and because Casa Cenote sits right across the road from the open sea, it's one of the few spots in the area where you can combine a cenote swim and ocean swim in the same visit. Casa Cenote is a popular stop on the way to or from Akumal, and works well as a half-day outing combined with other Tankah Bay or Akumal-area activities.