La Matica & Los Pinos Islets

The two small islands in the bay at Boca Chica are the easiest adventure in the region, and the first one costs nothing. La Matica is a mangrove cay at the western end of the lagoon where herons and other water birds roost and nest. Because the lagoon is so shallow, you can wade to it from the beach, usually in water around waist deep, especially at low tide. Los Pinos, the larger island opposite the main beach, is named for its pines and is usually reached by boat.

What to expect at La Matica: the walk itself is the fun, across sand and seagrass with clear water around your legs. Around the islet the water is calm and good for a float with a mask, though snorkeling here is about small fish, seagrass and the odd starfish rather than coral reef. Watch birds from the water and do not climb into the mangroves, which are a nesting site. Leave starfish in the water: lifting them out harms them. Wear water shoes, since the bottom can have sharp bits and urchins near the roots.

Los Pinos: boat operators on the beach offer short rides across the lagoon, sometimes combined with a glass-bottom or snorkel stop. Prices are negotiated on the sand, so agree on the total, the duration and whether gear is included before you get in. On the island, sturdy footwear and insect repellent help if you want to walk around.

Safety notes: stay inside the lagoon. The reef edge further out has waves and boat traffic, and jet skis and boats use the channels, so stay visible and keep kids close. Check the tide and the weather before wading, and avoid the walk on windy or sargassum-heavy days, when the water turns murky.

Best for: families with kids who can wade, birdwatchers, and travelers with a few hours in Boca Chica. For real reef and wreck diving, book a trip to the La Caleta underwater park a few minutes west.