Puerto Morelos remains a quiet place -- perfect for lying on the white-sand beach and reading, with the occasional foray into watersports, especially snorkeling, diving, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and kayaking. A prominent reef offshore was declared a national park for its protection. It's shallow and easy to snorkel, and it protects the coast from storm surges. The beaches are great, maintained by the local government. The water is shallow, calm, and clear, with sea grass growing on the bottom. The town is small, and the inhabitants are laid-back. There is a large English-language bookstore that sells new and used titles. The car ferry that used to depart from here for Cozumel has moved down the coast to the Calica pier just south of Playa del Carmen.
