Sargassum Seaweed in Cozumel
Like birds–tourists are migrating to Cozumel to flee the advancement of sargassum because the seaweed has not invaded the western beaches of this island and the water is still crystal clear. Because of the sargassum invasion in Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Playa del Carmen, many travelers have opted to move to Cozumel instead of staying on the mainland of the Mexican Caribbean.
What is causing the Sargassum to grow in such quantities? Experts believe it has a lot to do with the currents, global warming, wastewater, and other pollution supplying nutrients for the algae to grow. Understand that there is a sizeable amount of seaweed growing between the coast of Africa and Brazil, an area they have coined the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt. The seaweed moves from the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt to Mexico and the Caribbean region by hitching a ride on currents. As it makes its way along these streams, the sargassum picks up more and more nutrients and continues to grow.
We are happy not to have all the Seaweed of the Mainland
Good news if you’re visiting the most beautiful island of the Mexican Caribbean. The west-side of Cozumel is free of algae. The east side of Cozumel works as a natural barrier for the rest of the island and it is getting hit by the seaweed arrivals.
This means that Cozumel continues to be one of the least sargassum- affected municipalities and maintains clean western beaches (different from the landscape of other Quintana Roo destinations).
The phenomenon will continue throughout the summer and the issue is being dealt with. This translates into tourist benefits and allowed Cozumel to receive the title “Sargassum Free”. On Cozumel’s west facing beaches the hotels (Iberostar, Occidental, Secrets, El Presidente, Cozumel Palace, Hotel B, Coral Princess, and Westin), and beach clubs never have the seaweed problems of the mainland. You can contact us at info@stingrayvilla.com for a seaweed update or check availability at our 15th Avenida boutique inn.