In short
- Lifting a starfish out of the water causes it to suffocate.
- El Cielo is a protected national marine park.
- Visitors must follow guide instructions and keep a safe distance.
In this article
El Cielo is known for its large population of cushion sea stars resting in shallow water. Because this is a protected area within the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, strict conservation rules apply to all visitors.
Can you touch the starfish in Cozumel?
You cannot touch, pick up, or move the starfish under any circumstances.
The cushion sea stars (Oreaster reticulatus) rest on the ocean floor in 3 to 5 feet of water. You must float horizontally above them. Do not attempt to stand near the starfish to avoid accidentally stepping on them.
Why does lifting a starfish out of the water kill it?
Lifting a starfish out of the water for even a few seconds causes it to suffocate.
Exposure to air is fatal to these marine animals. Even briefly raising them to the surface for a photo causes irreversible damage. You must leave them exactly where they are on the sandbar.
What are the general rules for snorkeling at El Cielo?
El Cielo operates under strict federal regulations to protect the marine ecosystem.
- Do not collect or remove marine life, shells, coral, or sand.
- Do not stand on or kick coral reefs or seagrass beds.
- Follow all instructions from your certified guides.
- Remain within designated snorkeling zones at all times.
Can you wear sunscreen at El Cielo?
Most operators ask you to skip sunscreen of any kind in the water, including reef-safe formulas.
Chemicals and minerals from lotions harm the water quality and the animals. Instead of sunscreen, wear a long-sleeved UV rash guard or sun shirt while in the water.
Who enforces the rules at El Cielo?
Certified tour guides and federal marine park officials enforce the rules daily.
El Cielo is part of the 11,987-hectare protected Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. Access requires paying a mandatory federal conservation fee of about 200–225 MXN (about $10) (approx. $13 USD) per day.
Questions travellers ask
How big do the starfish get at El Cielo?
The resident cushion sea stars can grow up to 20-35 cm (8-14 inches) across.
Are there closures at El Cielo?
Yes. The site occasionally undergoes 2-month rolling closures, often in late summer or fall, for reef recovery.
Can you keep shells you find at El Cielo?
No. You cannot collect or remove shells, coral, sand, or marine life from the national park.
