The Underwater Museum or MUSA is a unique subaquatic art installation in Isla Mujeres. Not only is the art gallery remarkable, but it is also noteworthy for the blending of environmental science and aquatic adventure. British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor brought Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA) to life with his pieces, and installations now feature other artists as well. The project was launched in 2009 to create an artificial reef and help restore marine life in the Cancun and Isla Mujeres areas.
Where is MUSA located in Cancun?
The Underwater Museum of Art or MUSA is located under the waters of the Mexican Caribbean Sea, in the area surrounding Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Punta Nizuc.
How deep is the Underwater Museum in Cancun?
The underwater sculptures of MUSA Cancun are located 30 feet deep, which makes them perfect for recreational snorkeling activities; whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, you can enjoy this wonderful place.
Why are There Sculptures in the Cancun sea?
In addition to its paradisiacal beaches, Cancun has an underwater museum with 500 sculptures located at the bottom of the sea. These works of art stimulate the growth of coral reefs different species of marine life and for tourists to enjoy while diving.
The Art of Conservation
The Underwater Museum itself serves as an artificial reef. The statues are actually made of a cement that is mostly neutral. In other words, the cement itself stimulates coral growth. Elk horn, brain coral, sea fans and many other types have grown all over the sculptures.
The sculptures in fact are a unique base for the amplification and diversification of corals in the area. The newly grown corals provide protection and food for juvenile species of all kinds!
Where to Stay in Cancun for One Night
Where should you stay in Cancun for one night? It depends on your preferences, needs, and interests. Cancun offers hotels, hostels, Cancun villas, and Airbnb’s that cater to families of all sizes, while also offering hotels for adults-only.
Many tourists that visit Mexico talk a lot about the Cancun hotel zone. Why is that? It is because the Hotel Zone is what is also known as the tourist zone. Many vacationers that visit Mexico stay in the best area to stay in cancun hotel zone and never leave its borders because it is densely populated with nearly 100 hotels, shopping malls, beaches, and restaurants.
It is a six miles strip of shopping, eating, and vacationing. This makes it an ideal place to visit to spend a day buying gifts and souvenirs as long as you don’t mind the number of people around that is doing the same.
Additionally, the Hotel Zone is an energetic and alluring place for an active nightlife. For those wanting to keep busy once the sun has gone down, the Hotel Zone is a bustling hub of activity and evening entertainment.
Important tips to consider before you visit MUSA:
- Make sure you have a good meal well before you’re scheduled to be in the water.
- Only wear eco-friendly sunscreen and/or insect repellent lotions.
- Take some cash, preferably pesos, to tip tour guides or ferry operators.
- This would be an excellent opportunity to invest in a waterproof camera if you want to take underwater pictures.
- Although tours are available year-round, June to August is considered high season because of the whale shark arrival; book ahead of time if you’re traveling in these months.
- Avoid touching the sculptures or disturbing the marine life. Observing the rules and conservation protocols will make your tour a more enjoyable experience.