The intense rains in the Mexican Caribbean have opened more than 10 freshwater springs, known as “ojos de agua,” along the Riviera Maya. These natural phenomena result from rainwater filtering through underground rivers and emerging as freshwater springs on the coast. Most of these springs have appeared near the popular tourist destination of Playa del Carmen, which boasts palm trees and coral reefs.
Local authorities from the Solidaridad municipality’s Civil Protection department have identified around a dozen of these freshwater springs during coastal inspections. Fortunately, they pose no risk to the population.
Experts explain that these formations are common in the Caribbean, where internal caves act as natural conduits, channeling rainwater toward the sea and allowing freshwater to surface. The largest of these springs has opened near the fiscal pier, where boats depart for Cozumel Island, right in front of Parque Fundadores—a highly frequented area by tourists and locals alike.
These unexpected freshwater springs have become a tourist attraction. Locals and visitors alike visit them daily, capturing their unique beauty in photographs and videos. Andrés Guadalupe Navarro Guillen, a resident of Playa del Carmen, described the experience as refreshing and captivating, even though it doesn’t compare to the open sea. Liliana Almeida, vacationing in the Riviera Maya, found the phenomenon both beautiful and intriguing due to the region’s crystal-clear cenotes.
So, what exactly are these “ojos de agua”?
According to Lourdes Várguez Ocampo, Secretary of Sustainable Environment and Climate Change for the Solidaridad municipality, they are freshwater springs originating from the underground rivers characteristic of the Yucatán Peninsula. The recent heavy rains have increased pressure within these underground rivers, causing cracks in the rocks through which the freshwater emerges.
While these springs will only last a short time, we’re encouraged to appreciate this marvelous natural phenomenon while it lasts.
Source: La Vanguardia
