The 17 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
The places, most named first
From the 10 guides that rank for "best beaches in cozumel"
Named by 5 of 101. East coast beachesCozumel, MexicoThe east shore is wild Atlantic exposure with natural pools and no swimming.Conditions can be rougher on the east side when wind and waves are stronger.
Named by 4 of 102. West coast beachesCozumel, MexicoThe west side generally has more sheltered water and is where many people swim, snorkel and visit beach clubs.One guide calls the western shore calm and sheltered, lined with beach clubs.
Named by 3 of 103. ChankanaabSan Miguel de Cozumel area, MexicoChankanaab is a beach club with the most to do, and also the most crowded.The water is clear and calm, but the reef is described as poor for fish and coral.
Named by 3 of 10
4. Playa Mia
Cozumel, Mexico
It is one of four beach clubs this guide suggests for families.
Named by 2 of 105. Palancar BeachCozumel, MexicoThis guide calls it arguably the prettiest beach on the island.The calm water makes it good for snorkeling.
Named by 2 of 106. Playa CoronaCozumel, MexicoA shallow reef is reachable from the beach, with calm water through the year.Sea turtles forage on the reef close to the shoreline.
Named by 2 of 107. Money Bar BeachCozumel, MexicoEntry is free, but the staff expects you to buy food or drinks.Fish swim close by, so snorkeling is easy.
Named by 2 of 108. Paradise BeachCozumel, MexicoIt is about 5 miles from the cruise ports and easy to reach by cab or shuttle.The writers say the beach stays very clean despite being busy.
Named by 2 of 109. Mr. SanchosCozumel, MexicoThe water is warm and clear, but there is no real snorkeling at this stretch.It has a large free-form pool and a water splash area for kids.
10. Playa San JuanCozumel, MexicoThe beach is rocky, so water shoes help.Water activities available include snorkeling, diving, kayaking and parasailing.
11. San Fran BeachCozumel, MexicoThis guide calls it the best sandy beach in Cozumel, found past Playa Mia.Snorkeling is not exceptional, but the water is fine for a dip.
12. Playa CosmicaCozumel, MexicoA small, slightly rocky cove favored by locals.The shallow water suits small children and snorkeling.
13. Playa StingrayCozumel, MexicoA free beach about a mile from the cruise port, with few other people.The shore is fairly rocky, so water shoes are a good idea.
14. Punta Sur beachPunta Sur, MexicoA cove beach with hammocks, powdery white sand and very little wave action.Locals head to the other side of the island on Sunday, so it is busier then.
15. Playa Las CasitasCozumel, MexicoThis beach is the one closest to town.
16. Playa BonitaEast coast, MexicoThe east coast is not for swimming because of the swell and current, but has natural pools in the rock at low tide.
17. Las Uvas covesCozumel, MexicoCorals and small formations here hold triggerfish, turtles and barracuda.
Fares to Cozumel from your city
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When to go
Travel guides most often name January to April as the best time to visit Cozumel.
Named by 5 of 101. East coast beachesThe east shore is wild Atlantic exposure with natural pools and no swimming.Conditions can be rougher on the east side when wind and waves are stronger.
Named by 4 of 102. West coast beachesThe west side generally has more sheltered water and is where many people swim, snorkel and visit beach clubs.One guide calls the western shore calm and sheltered, lined with beach clubs.
Named by 3 of 103. ChankanaabChankanaab is a beach club with the most to do, and also the most crowded.The water is clear and calm, but the reef is described as poor for fish and coral.
