El Cielo Guide
El Cielo: A Slice of Heaven in Cozumel's Turquoise Waters Guide
Escape to paradise at El Cielo, a secluded sandbar located just off the coast of Cozumel. This stunning natural wonder is renowned for its crystal-clear, shallow turquoise waters and abundance of starfish. Imagine wading through waist-deep water, surrounded by hundreds of starfish, with the sun warming your skin and the gentle sea breeze caressing your face. El Cielo truly lives up to its name, offering a slice of heaven on earth. It's the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. While El Cielo doesn't have a specific historical narrative, its existence is a testament to the natural beauty and geological processes that have shaped the island of Cozumel over millennia. The sandbar is formed by the accumulation of sediment carried by ocean currents, creating a unique and fragile ecosystem. The abundance of starfish is a result of the favorable conditions in the shallow, protected waters. It's important to remember that El Cielo is a delicate environment, and visitors should take care to avoid disturbing the starfish or damaging the surrounding ecosystem. The primary activity at El Cielo is simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. Most tours to El Cielo include snorkeling at nearby reefs, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world before relaxing on the sandbar. You can also swim, sunbathe, or simply wade through the shallow water, marveling at the starfish. Many tours include lunch and drinks, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the experience. While on your tour, ask your guide about the local marine life and the importance of protecting the reef ecosystem. Many tours will also stop at other beautiful snorkeling locations, such as Palacar Reef.
Transportation
El Cielo is only accessible by boat. Numerous tour operators offer excursions to El Cielo departing from various points along the coast of Cozumel, including the cruise ship terminals and downtown San Miguel. Taxis are readily available to transport you to these departure points. Consider pre-booking your tour to ensure availability, especially during peak season.