25 Cozumel Beaches in Mexico to Plan Your Dream Trip

You’re sitting at your desk, dreaming of soaking in the sun, breathing the salty air, sipping a margarita, and feeling the sand beneath you. The Cozumel Beaches in Mexico are that little slice of paradise you’re daydreaming of. 

So, stop dreaming and start packing.

About the Cozumel Beaches in Mexico

The island of Cozumel is situated in the Caribbean Sea, just south of Cancun. It’s a popular spot for cruise ships due to its location and beauty. 

Each side of the island has a different atmosphere.

The western side is more developed, has sandy beaches and electric blue water, and is where the airport and cruise ports are. 

The eastern side is much rockier and less developed but has the most spectacular snorkeling opportunities on the island. 

There are a few things to keep in mind when you visit. First, bring cash with you. Many spots will not accept credit cards, and the last thing you want is to be denied your delicious taco because you don’t have the correct form of payment. 

Next, understand the flag system that is employed on all the beaches, including the private ones. 

• Green flags = safe to swim 
• Yellow = exercise increased caution 
• Red = it is dangerous
• Black = you should not, under any circumstances, get in the water. 

Conditions can change quickly, so stay vigilant. 

Lastly, it’s vacation, so you need to relax and have fun. It’s a requirement. 

Map of the top Cozumel Beaches in Mexico you have to visit

If you’re going beach hopping, you’ll need a map to plan it all out. We want you to spend more time relaxing on the beach and less time traveling to it. Logistics are everything, right? 

West side of Cozumel:

1. El Cid la Ceiba Beach Hotel

Great for cruise passengers

The El Cid la Ceiba Beach Hotel is a fantastic beach just steps from the cruise port. You can enjoy the private hotel beach when you purchase a day pass. The shoreline is naturally rocky, but there is a manmade sandy stretch to lounge on. 

There are pretty incredible views of the water and limestone formations from the sandy stretch. Your day pass includes snorkeling equipment, so take advantage of the opportunity to see the water from a different perspective. 

2. Mr. Sanchos Beach 

Great for parties

About 15 minutes from San Miguel, Mr. Sanchos Beach has a huge beach club on the sand. 

The beach is free to visit, but if you want to use the club, you must pay a small fee. It’s certainly worth the cost, as it includes swimming pools, hammocks, a spa, changing rooms, and a restaurant. 

The club also offers water sports and other activities, like WaveRunners, horseback riding, and parasailing. This is the largest private beach in Cozumel, so expect it to be pretty crowded, especially in peak season. 

Although you can almost always expect crowds, it does give you the typical Cozumel vibe, with music, food, drinks, and enough activities to keep you entertained for weeks. There’s an inflatable water park for the kids and an all-you-can-drink package for the parents. 

3. Nachi Cocom Beach Club

Great for adults

This beach club has a daily limit of 130 people, so you can enjoy the amenities without the intense crowds you might be used to from the other Cozumel beaches. It isn’t specifically adult-only, but there aren’t many amenities for children, so it definitely caters to an older crowd. 

4. Paradise Beach

Great for families

Paradise Beach is about 8 km or 5 miles from the cruising port.

It is sheltered, making the waters very calm for families. You can rent kayaks and other water equipment or just float in the adventure park. 

With all the activities catered to children, this is arguably one of the most popular beaches in Cozumel for families. Think kayaks, henna tattoos, and all-around fun. A taxi from the port takes just 15 minutes, so you can visit even if you are just there for the day. 

5. Buccanos Resort

Great for families

Are you traveling with kids? Head to the Buccanos Resort to go snorkeling with the whole family. The current here is very weak, ideal for children or anyone who isn’t an excellent swimmer. You can lock away your valuables in lockers. 

Apart from snorkeling, you can go jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. For active families that prefer to do things rather than relax on the sand, this is the perfect place for you.

6. Park Royal

Great for convenient relaxation

Just outside the center of Cozumel is the Grand Park Royal Cozumel Resort, where you can purchase a day pass for access to the resort’s amazing amenities. Enjoy a private beach, pools, a swim-up bar, and the ultra-calm waters.

The water is protected from the ocean by a rock formation, which makes the seas almost standstill. If you want to float on a raft and soak in the rays of the bright Caribbean sun, this is the place to do it. 

It’s right near the cruise port, so you can take a peek at the docked cruise ships. 

7. Playa Azul

Great for busybodies

Just north of the airport is Playa Azul.

It’s very conveniently located to plenty of activities, but it feels quite secluded. 

Visitors can do pretty much anything they want, from relaxing on the sand with a cocktail to staying active in the water. The water here is calm but has a few waves to keep you entertained. 

Showers and refreshments are available, along with a few hotels if you want to make this area your home base for your vacation. 

8. Playa Corona

Great for snorkeling

In this day and age, you might cringe when you hear the word “corona,” but don’t worry – this beach is all beer and no pandemic. 

It is a relatively small beach but has lots of reefs surrounding it. There isn’t a ton of sand, but the restaurant nearby offers lounge chairs to relax on. You can also play beach volleyball here if you get bored of relaxing. 

9. Playa Caletitas

Great for tranquility

South of the cruise port is Playa Caletitas, which translates to Cove Beach. It is a small area and doesn’t get much attention, which is perfect for visitors to enjoy a little peace and quiet.

Although it is pretty tiny, it is more than gorgeous. Imagine coarse sand against rocks with gentle azure water climbing up the shore. 

It’s just a few minutes away from downtown Cozumel. 

Once you see the signature lighthouse, you know you’ve arrived. 

10. Playa Dzul-Ha

Great for snorkeling

This is one of the most popular snorkeling beaches on the island. Like the other snorkeling spots, it will be a bit rocky, but it is worth a visit nonetheless. 

You can actually visit the reefs directly from the beach, while most other spots on the island will need a boat or tour guide to reach them. 

Make sure you wear water shoes, as you do not want to step on a sharp rock and have to cut your water time short. The Money Bar rents all the snorkeling gear you need and has storage lockers. After your adventure, stick around for a snack, cocktail, and live music. 

11. Playa La Palapita den Medio

Great for quiet

Close to the city center but relatively free of crowds is the gorgeous Playa La Palapita den Medio. You should absolutely become a regular customer at the onsite beach bar, La Palita. Sip on a tropical drink right by the water, or belt your heart out on Thursday night karaoke. 

This beach is the perfect place to catch up with friends or family, as it’s quieter and calmer than some other beaches on this list. You don’t go to La Palapita for a wild Cozumel adventure. You go here to unwind, enjoy the water, and relax. 

12. Playa Las Rocas

Great for a free sandy beach

On the west side of Cozumel, in the hotel zone, is Playa Las Rocas. 

This is one of the only free, sandy beaches in this area. Almost all the beaches around here are part of hotels and resorts, so you have to either stay at the resort or pay for a day pass. 

Las Rocas is just as gorgeous as other beaches on the island, with powdered sugar sand and bright green waters, but don’t expect to be able to order a drink or food while lounging around. There aren’t many amenities. 

It’s a favorite with the locals, so the weekends can get quite busy.

13. Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

Great for waterpark fun

How does a beachfront waterpark sound? 

This western coast beach is immensely popular. You can take a boat ride on the water, go snorkeling, rent an ATV, go to the spa, or just relax on the hot white sand. 

The floating water park has a 500-foot-long adventure circuit that will keep the kids and playful adults busy all day. There’s also an underwater Mayan city, a replica of a submerged, lost city. It’s very cool to snorkel there and get lost in the surprisingly realistic ruins. 

14. Playa Palancar

Great for serenity 

The best way to describe Playa Palancar is pristine. It’s visually stunning and has some of the best fish tacos on the beach. 

You can go snorkeling here to see loads of colorful fish and turtles close up. There is also a thriving reef nearby. 

Luckily, it is still relatively undiscovered, so don’t expect tons of crowds, even though it’s a free beach.

You can get a massage right on the beach or join a deep-sea fishing trip. Both are memorable ways to enjoy your time in Mexico. 

15. Playa San Francisco

Great for groups

Commonly referred to as one of the best beaches in Cozumel, Mexico, Playa San Francisco is the epitome of a tropical paradise. White sand, plenty of amenities, and sparkling turquoise water define this beach. 

You can keep everyone in your party entertained with water sports like parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, jet-skiing, and paddleboarding. 

It’s also a favorite beach because it has plenty of amenities, like umbrellas, beach loungers, clean restrooms, and outdoor showers.

If you don’t want to get in the ocean, there is a pool you can hang in right by the beach bar. 

16. Playa San Juan

Great for convenience

Another well-liked family beach is Playa San Juan, located right on the north side of the western coast. 

It is close to many different resorts and shopping, making it easy to get to and packed with activities. It does tend to get pretty crowded when cruise ships are docked, so check out the schedule beforehand and plan accordingly. 

You can snorkel from Playa San Juan — there are many shops around the beach to rent snorkel equipment for the day. You can also windsurf here, as the waters are calm, but the winds are strong. 

17. Playa Uvas

Great for everything

There are actually two beaches in Playa Uvas. There is Playa Uva Norte and Playa Uva Sur. These beaches are trendy among locals and cruise guests, so they can certainly get busy quickly. 

Playa Uva Sur has a beach club with a restaurant and relaxing amenities like hammocks, a pool, and loungers. 

The sand is as soft as sugar, and you can easily see your toes while wading through the calm waters. 

Playa Uva Norte has the same beauty but is less developed, so there aren’t many facilities or amenities. Since it’s typically less crowded, it’s a lovely place to have a beach picnic. 

18. Punta Sur Eco Park

Great for wildlife

Want to get up close and personal with a crocodile? What about a sea full of starfish? 

This is the place to do it!

The Punta Sur Eco Park, about 30 km from town, has a crocodile lagoon you can visit on a boat excursion.

And once that adrenaline rush is over, head to Playa El Cielo to find thousands of starfish underneath the surface of the crystal-clear water. It is like nothing you have ever seen before. 

19. Sunset Beach

Great for sunsets

If you don’t want to trek very far to go snorkeling, Sunset Beach is the closest spot to town to get in the water. Reef balls have been placed in the water to encourage fish and help the ecosystem. 

There’s also a beach bar, but this does get pretty busy when ships are in port. 

Sunset Beach is an excellent spot to watch the sunset, as it is so aptly named. 

North side of Cozumel:

20. Passion Island

Great for a change of pace

Want to go island hopping? Head over to Passion Island, just north of Cozumel. It is much less developed, which is what gives it its charm. 

Think white beaches, sprinkles of palm trees, and nothing in your line of vision except the bright aqua water. You’ll think you’re on the set of Pirates of the Caribbean. 

From the Punta Langosta cruise terminal, you can take a quick boat to Passion Island. If you want everything figured out for you, some tours arrange a day trip to the island and include lunch. 

Passion Island is often considered the most Instagrammable beach in all of Cozumel. If you’ve ever seen photos from a wedding in Cozumel, it likely took place here. If you don’t plan on utilizing a beach club, bring an umbrella, snacks, and activities for the day. 

East side of Cozumel:

21. Playa Bonita 

Great for viewing ruins

Playa Bonita is on the eastern side of the island, which typically has choppy waves. However, this beach has perfectly calm waves, incredible views, and turquoise waters. 

Close to the beach are some Mayan ruins, which are fascinating for any history lover. These ruins were quite important to the Mayans, as they believed this spot was the farthest end of the world. 

Today, you still feel like you are on the edge of civilization when lying on the beach. Its remoteness gives you a wonderful sense of calm. Just make sure to bring anything you need for the day with you, as there is not much shopping to be had around here. 

22. El Mirador

Great for views, not for swimming

On the southeast side of the island is El Mirador. Don’t expect to be able to swim here, as the currents are powerful. However, this is one of the most picturesque beaches in Cozumel, Mexico, with beautiful rock formations standing over the turquoise water. It gets even better when the tide is high, so try to time your visit to get some breathtaking pictures. 

23. Playa Chen Rio 

Great for lounging

Playa Chen Rio is the ideal family-friendly swimming beach with a natural tide pool. There are lifeguards here, which is a comforting thought to all families. It’s on the island’s east side and has bleach-white sand, precisely what you think of during a tropical getaway. 

Plenty of restaurants and cafes are available nearby, along with some small shops selling souvenirs. It’s far enough away from the cruise dock that it doesn’t get too crowded, but it is definitely well-known. 

While lying on the sand, you can watch the kite surfers attempt to stay upright or just chill with a good book. It is about a 30-minute drive from town, so arrange transport there and back, as there aren’t many taxes nearby. 

24. Playa Del San Martin

Great for seclusion

Playa San Martin is a secluded beach on the East Coast, with only a few easily accessible amenities. 

Always look for the green flags indicating when the water is safe to enter. Also, wait until lifeguards are on duty, as the water can turn rough in an instant with powerful currents. 

25. Playa Punta Morena

Great for surfing and romance

Another great beach on the eastern coast of Cozumel is Playa Punta Morena. 

This is a hotspot for surfers, especially during peak wave season. This sand is super soft, which is somewhat uncommon for this part of the island. 

You can also enjoy amenities from a beach club here, with loungers, refreshments, and a pool. 

If you’re on your honeymoon or a romantic getaway, this rustic spot is definitely off-the-beaten-path and surrounded by beaches virtually no one visits. It’s perfect for a long walk, but the swimmable part of the water is somewhat small, so keep that in mind. 

Weather in Cozumel Beaches in Mexico

There are two rainy seasons in Cozumel, the first from October to January and the second from April to July. In general, the rainy summer season typically consists of short bursts of heavy rain, but the rest of the day is sunny. In winter, the rain is much more consistent. 

The best time to visit the Cozumel beaches in Mexico is from March until May, when it is warm but not brutally hot. These are also the driest months, and let’s be honest – you’re going to Cozumel to enjoy the beach, not watch the rain from inside your room. 

Hurricane season is from June to November, with the highest risk in August and September. Although this doesn’t mean you should avoid going in these months, just be aware that a hurricane is possible. Keep an eye out in the weeks before your trip to see if anything is brewing. 

Packing list essentials for Cozumel Beaches

The beaches of Cozumel, Mexico, are beautiful, but it is very easy to get sunburnt to the extreme. Besides the requisite reef-safe sunscreen, bring these:

• Bathing suits
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Microfiber towel
• Waterproof bag
• Sandals
• Portable fan
• Snorkeling equipment if you don’t want to rent it
• Water shoes
• Bug spray

How to get to Cozumel Beaches in Mexico

You have various options to get to the Cozumel Beaches in Mexico. If you are coming from another country, you can fly directly to the island’s international airport. 

However, it might be worthwhile to explore the capital city before relaxing on the beach. Mexico City to Cozumel is a quick flight that lets you get the best of Mexico on one trip.

If you’re already on the Caribbean side, you can take a three-hour bus and ferry trip from Cancun to Cozumel. Or a 20-minute flight.

Alternatively, you can get from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel with a 30-minute ferry ride. 

When you are all beached out, there are other things to do in Cozumel to round out your vacation.

Be sure to check out Bookaway’s routes in Mexico when planning your next trip. 

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