The facility is situated inside Chankanaab Park, which is part of the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park.
The dolphin habitat uses a flow-through system that allows water to circulate continuously from the surrounding ocean.
Chankanaab means 'small sea' in the local Mayan language, referring to the inland lagoon located at the park.
The site features a replica of a Mayan village to educate visitors about the region's indigenous history.
The park's reef system is home to an underwater statue of Christ, which is accessible to snorkelers and divers nearby.
Dolphin Discovery Cozumel is located within the Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park, a protected marine area on the island's southern coast. The facility offers interactive dolphin encounter programs that include swimming, dorsal fin rides, and handshakes in a natural saltwater lagoon. Visitors have access to the broader Chankanaab Park amenities, which include snorkeling reefs, botanical gardens, and archaeological replicas. The site utilizes a specialized filtration system for its dolphin habitats to maintain water quality from the adjacent Caribbean Sea. Programs are categorized by activity level, ranging from shallow-water interactions for non-swimmers to high-energy deep-water swims. The facility functions as both a tourist attraction and a center for marine mammal educational outreach.
The wooden dock overlooking the turquoise lagoon provides a clear view of the water with the lush park canopy as a backdrop.
Book your interaction program in advance to secure your preferred time slot, as group sizes are strictly limited.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem, as regular sunblock is prohibited in the water.
Plan to spend the entire day at Chankanaab Park to maximize the value of your entrance fee, which typically grants access to the park's other amenities.
Do not wait to purchase tickets at the gate, as popular time slots for dolphin encounters frequently sell out weeks in advance.
Jewelry, watches, and hair accessories must be removed before entering the water; life jackets are mandatory for all in-water participants regardless of swimming ability.
