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Cozumel's Beaches & Snorkeling
Cozumel's beaches vary from scalloped bays and inlets to wide wind-swept swathes of powdery sand. The calm waters of the western side of the island are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, and sunbathing. The desolate, eastern shore is lashed by waves and steady winds, although there are some lovely escarpments and bays safe for swimming.
The majority of hotels are located along the west coast where most of the snorkeling is enjoyed. Only Chankanaab National Park (see pictures below) has a entrance fee. There are also a couple of private hotel beaches located on the road to the south and north. The rest are free to enjoy and almost all the beaches have a beach bar/restaurant. Also, if you don't have your own snorkeling equipment, you should be able to rent them for about $10-15 US dollars (at the beach or from your hotel).
Please note that not all hotels have the 'traditional' white sand beach. Some of the hotels feature a rocky cliff like coastline, these will offer the best snorkeling, with corals and tropical fish just feet from the shoreline (Villa Maya, Casa Caribena, Coral Princess Hotel, Hotel Barracuda, Plaza Las Glorias, Chankanaab Park and Playa Corona). Most of the all inclusive resorts feature fantastic white sand beaches. White powder sand beaches include: Playa Azul, Playa Pilar and Playa San Juan to the North. San Francisco Beach, Playa Sol, Playa Francesa, Playa Palancar and San Clemente to the south.
There are two different types of beaches on Cozumel. One found on the west side of the island facing the mainland (the hotel zone), offers stretches of golden sand, often with all the amenities of a beach club. The water here is relativly calm with no waves and little undertow. You'll generally find easy access for swimming. The snorkeling at this kind of beach will be dissappointing as the sand run off does not allow the coral to grow. (This is what you will find at most large all inclusive resorts.) Also on the west side you will find the rocky limestone, cliff like shoreline which offers excellent snorkeling. You'll generally have to enter via a set of steps or ladder from the shore or peir and will be entering into 5-10 feet of water.
On the east side facing the Caribbean Sea, quiet beaches alternate with rocky shores. The waters on the more populous west side are generally calm, while the roaring surf on the east creates perilous breakers and undertows.
NOTE:
Always be careful when snorkeling in Cozumel. The currents along the west side can be as swift as 5-6 knots (which is great for diving). Most of the current is located away from the shoreline, but not always. On the east coast the water is much rougher with stronger currents and undertows. Always swim at your own risk. Never go snorkeling or diving alone.
View Maps of Cozumel showing several beaches
Western ShorePlaya San Juan: To the north of the Melia Mayan Hotel, this family favorite has plenty of shade, calm water, excellent windsurfing, and restaurants.
Chankanaab Bay: This popular full-service beach invites divers and snorkelers to explore the area's limestone shoreline caves. This is the island's prime snorkeling turf; excellent facilities for swimmers and non-swimmers, include Chankanaab Lagoon and Botanical Gardens. Head to La Laguna restaurant for lunch.
Playa San Francisco: Cozumel's best beach stretches 3.5 kms. along the island's southwestern shore. A favorite with locals and dive boats exploring the offshore reef, the beach has plenty of activity at several palapa restaurants and bars. Popular for lunch. Resort development is currently underway, changing the beach's idyllic character.
Playa Escondida: The island's 'escapist' beach is a sanctuary for those wanting privacy and willing to give up a few amenities.
Eastern Shore
Playa Chen Rio: Resting at the end of the trans-island road, this beach is protected by a wall of rocks, keeping the water calm. One of the Eastern shores best beaches. Very quiet and secluded.
Chankanaab National Park / Lagoon
(click on the images)
 
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