Cozumel, Mexico is one of the best places in the world to snorkel. If you want to see the best that Cozumel has to offer, then you need to be ready with your mask and fins.
There are many different types of fish that live in the waters surrounding Cozumel, including some that can be found nowhere else! The waters around Cozumel are also known for their shallow reefs, which means that even if you’re not an expert diver, you can still enjoy amazing views from above the water’s surface.
The best times of year to visit Cozumel are between November and June when there aren’t any hurricanes or tropical storms affecting weather patterns on nearby islands. The best months for snorkeling are May through October when water temperatures are at their warmest and most comfortable conditions exist for swimming around coral reefs without getting too cold!
In this article you can get more information on Best places to snorkel cozumel, best beaches in cozumel, best shallow snorkeling in cozumel, snorkeling cozumel, and best free snorkeling in cozumel
Best free snorkeling in cozumel
If you’re looking for the best Cozumel shore snorkeling spots, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got the top 10 spots; veteran Cozumel snorkelers have told us these are their favorites.
These spots are free, but if you go through a restaurant or bar, please be sure to buy drinks or food. The restaurants and bars rely on your business to survive, and they really appreciate it when visitors show their support by buying something!
- Money Bar
- Sky Reef
- Playa Azul
- Punta Sur
- Buccanos Beach Club/Bar & Grill
- Hotel Cozumel (must be a guest or purchase a day pass)
- Tikila Bar
- Playa Corona
- Sunset Cozumel
- Turquoise
- Chankanaab Park Beach (Playa Coral, Cozumel) – This is one of the best snorkeling beaches in Cozumel and one of the most popular spots for tourists. A beautiful beach with lots of coral reefs, colorful fish and sea turtles makes this spot a must-see on your list.
- Punta Sur Reef (Playa Punta Sur, Cozumel) – Another beautiful spot with lots of colorful fish but also some stingrays and sea turtles as well. The water here is clear and shallow making it ideal for children or those who aren’t comfortable in deep waters.
- Paradise Beach (Playa Paraiso) – A great place to spend the day relaxing while watching all the fish swim around you in crystal clear waters that lead out into open ocean beyond the reef wall just offshore from Paradise Beach Resort on Isla Mujeres island off mainland Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
Have a knack for the deep-sea water? Want to dive in and feel the fresh marine water. Let the North Caribbean gulp you in and give you a view of the marine world beneath our ordinary world? If you can imagine all of this, fret not fellas and have a taste of Cozumel in all its essence. While snorkeling is not an activity for the fearful, it is everything your mind lets you wander to.
Cozumel being an island is well-known for its turquoise blue, stunning waters that stretch afar. Rich in marine life, these blue waters will shun all your summer blues. Snorkel through the clear water of Palancar reef in Cozumel and gain an experience that you will cherish forever.
As renowned as this site is for snorkeling, it comes with its pros. A depth of eighty feet and a sea life that is almost unparalleled, you will get to see so many of the wonders of this world in one site. Enriched with an array of marine plants and decked with some visionary caves, it leaves one awestruck. Oh, at least we were! Believe us or not, there is so much to explore underwater, revisit, for one visit is never enough.
Swim along the Palancar Reef and witness sea turtles, some glowing starfish, stingrays and what not. Do sharks and whales amaze you? Now is the right time to explore a few of them too. With lots of colorful specks of different fish here and there, you will be as excited as a kid. A habitat to a distinct variety of sharks and so many other marine animals, this reef is a must-visit when on vacations in Cozumel.
Best places to snorkel cozumel
There are very few places in the world where you can experience the beauty of marine life like you can in Cozumel. The island is known for its tropical landscape and beautiful scenery, which creates more access to remote and unique spots for exploring and snorkeling.
It is known as being one of the best snorkeling destinations imaginable because it’s part of the Mesoamerican Reef which is the second-largest reef in the world. It’s also a great place to explore with friends or family members with its calm waters and warm temperatures.
The Island of Cozumel is a beautiful piece of paradise off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Snorkeling in Cozumel is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Cozumel is situated on the Mesoamerican reef which is the second-largest reef in the world so there are many different spots to choose from.
There are both off-shore snorkeling options where you can swim out from shore to reefs that aren’t very far from the coastline. There are also, of course, large reefs further out in the ocean that you can access by boat. Snorkel tour companies will take you out to these reefs by boat.
Off-shore Snorkeling Options
The Caribbean is home to some of the best snorkeling on earth, and it’s easy to get to. You can pay to visit a beach club or park where you can snorkel right from the beach, borrow gear and have access to other activities. You also can choose to snorkel from a public beach where you can swim out to a reef just off the shore and spend as much or as little time as you’d like swimming with the fish of the Caribbean Sea.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, try sailing from one island to another. You’ll get an amazing view of sea life in its natural habitat, and you’ll be able to stop at different islands along the way for beach time, shopping or sightseeing. As an added bonus, your boat will probably include water sports like snorkeling for free!
1. Chankanaab Park
This park is very popular because it’s only about 4 miles from the cruise port so many tourists visit this location. The water is shallow with a mild current so it’s an especially great spot for beginners and families.
Just 0.2 miles from the shore, you can access the vibrant, colorful marine life of the reef. Some of the sea animals include eels, morays, sea urchins, angelfish, snappers, among many others. The most exciting part about this location is the underwater statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary. There are also other activities in this park including swimming with dolphins and scuba diving but just note that there is a fee to get into this park.
2. Villa Blanca Reef
This reef is located on the west coast of the island and not too far from the ferry port. It’s a popular spot among tourists because it’s great for all levels of snorkelers and can be accessed from the beach.
It’s a shallow reef that only reaches up to 40 feet deep and also makes a great night snorkeling spot. There can be strong currents and many boats in the area so it’s important to stick to the snorkeling guide provided.
There are many amazing sea animals to see in the concentrated area including sea sponges, squirrelfish, moray, eels, and gorgonians.
4. Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
This beach park is a bit further from the ferry port so it’s not quite as busy and a great place to snorkel from shore.
In general, Punta Sur is a beautiful natural place where you’ll find exotic birds and crocodiles in their natural habitat. The Chunchacab Reef can be accessed about 0.3-0.5 miles offshore and is a great spot to explore. The park has a $14 admission fee but besides snorkeling, there are restaurants, showers, and beach chairs to use within the park.
5. Snorkel Options by Boat
Many tour companies on the island will take you by boat to explore larger reefs a bit further from shore. Oftentimes, you can see a larger variety of marine life but tours can get costly and usually are long day trips.
Some tours will take you to different locations on the island to see diverse reefs and sea animals, others will take you to a single reef to spend a few hours. Boat snorkeling tours are very practical and easy as you can jump on and off the boat to enjoy the experience rather than swimming a good distance to access a reef.
6. Palancar Reef
This reef is located on the southwestern part of the island. The visibility is very high which makes it arguably one of the best and most famous snorkeling spots on the island.
Many tour companies will take you by boat for roughly $45 to experience the abundance of marine life in the area. At this reef, you’ll see features such as caves, ledges, and large reef drop-offs. Some of the animals to see here include sea turtles, butterflyfish, and eels. You could explore this reef in 1-2 hours.
7. Columbia Reef
This reef is just as famous and great as the nearby Palancar Reef on the south end of the island. It is best accessed by boat and many tours will take you there.
Marine life includes sharks and spotted eagle manta rays among diverse, colorful fish. It’s a deep reef but the visibility is high. It’s also a great spot for diving if that interests you.
8. El Cielo
Another popular snorkel destination is El Cielo which means heaven in Spanish because the waters are a beautiful turquoise blue with a white, sandy floor.
It’s very shallow so the visibility is superb. You can find starfish, stingrays, and vibrant schools of fish.
Best beaches in Cozumel
1. Playa Punta Morena
The eastern coast of Cozumel is, arguably, the most beautiful on the entire island. The cruise port is on the western coast, facing the mainland, so the majority of tourist traffic tends to stay on the western and southern shores. But the eastern coast is much more rugged, raw, untouched, and local.
Playa Punta Morena is about halfway along the eastern coast and offers a stunning stretch of powder-soft sand. The eastern beaches, because they are exposed directly to the sea, can be a lot of fun for surfers, especially since surf culture isn’t as big on the Caribbean Sea side of Mexico. But Playa Punta Morena hosts surf events during peak wave season.
A small beach club is available, which has beach loungers and some refreshments for sale. There’s even a pool should you feel the need for a refreshing dip.
Address: Costa Este km. 44, San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
2. Playa El Cielo
If heaven really is a place on Earth, then it most certainly is found on Playa El Cielo. At least, it’s heaven for snorkelers and divers. This picture-perfect swatch of sugary sand is famous not only for its crystal-clear water, but for the thousands (yes, thousands) of starfish that can be found underneath the water’s surface.
El Cielo, located at the southern tip of Cozumel, is at the gateway of the Columbia Reef, which is teeming with tropical fish and coral.
The secret of El Cielo is that it can’t be reached by car. No roads lead directly to the beach itself, and it’s difficult to reach on foot. Those who want to discover “heaven,” however, can do so by boat.
If you’re visiting from Playa del Carmen, you can easily find tours that offer this perfect beach. Another option is to hire a water taxi to take you from many of the more accessible beaches nearby.
Address: Carretera a Punta sur salida el cielo, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
3. Playa Chen Rio
Playa Chen Rio’s top selling point is that it is one of the calmer beaches on the windward eastern coast, making it wonderful for swimming. In fact, there’s even a sweeping natural tide pool, which makes it a perfect family beach. Lifeguards are also on duty at this beach, which cannot be said for all of them.
That said, its reputation as a family-friendly, swimmable beach means it tends to be one of the more crowded. Still, it’s no less beautiful, with sparkling turquoise water and a blinding stretch of bleached sand.
A smattering of restaurants are available for snacks and refreshments along the shore, as well. A small shop sells handicrafts, but they aren’t much different from the tourist items you’ll find closer to the cruise port.
Address: Costera Este Highway 3.5 miles north, Cozumel
4. Passion Island
Passion Island takes your Cozumel island experience to the next level. Just off the north coast sits this smaller, even more undeveloped, slice of paradise. Ringed in white-sand beach, peppered with palm trees, with nothing but endless views of turquoise water, Passion Island takes the Cozumel island experience and raises the bar to an even more idyllic Robinson Crusoe fantasy.
The best (and most affordable) way to reach Passion island is from the Punta Langosta cruise terminal, where Passion Island guides can arrange transportation to the smaller pier that has boats to the island. It’s about a five-minute crossing from Cozumel to Passion Island.
If you have your own car, you can drive yourself to the ferry at Bahia Ciega, which is about a half hour from downtown. Visitors can also book a full-service tour, which often includes lunch and activities.
Address: Avenida 5 Sur s/n, Centro, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
5. Playa San Juan
Located at the northern tip of the western coast, Playa San Juan is one of the more popular family beaches on Cozumel. Its proximity to resorts and shopping makes it convenient, easily accessible, and full of things to do. Keep in mind that when cruise ships are in port, it tends to be one of the more crowded beaches.
Snorkeling is popular at this particular beach, and plenty of shops are available from which to rent snorkel equipment. Windsurfers love this stretch of coast as well, because it has calm water and great conditions. You can rent equipment from the shops nearby.
If you’re looking for more full-service, check into Buccanos Beach Club, which has its own pool, restaurant, and lounge space.
Address: Carretera San Juan Kilometro 4.5, Zona Hotelera Nte., 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
6. Playa Palancar
At the southern end of Cozumel is this unbelievable stretch of pristine, powdery sand. Playa Palancar is one of the most visually stunning beaches on the island, with clean white sand, turquoise water, and a rustic-style palapa restaurant that is known for its fresh fish tacos.
Like most beaches on this coast of Cozumel, snorkeling reveals a treasure trove of fish, turtles, and lobster. You can also find a guide who will take you farther out to the reef, where there is a lot more to discover below the water’s surface.
Because Playa Palancar is closer to the more rustic Cozumel coast, it retains a sleepy vibe and manages to keep the majority of crowds at bay.
Address: Carretera Costera Sur Kilometro 19.5, Cozumel
7. Playa Dzul-Ha
Playa Dzul-Ha is one of the best snorkeling beaches on the island of Cozumel. The beach itself is a bit rocky, compared to other soft and powdery beaches on the island, but if you’re looking for a spot from which to explore the famous surrounding reef, Dzul-Ha is a great beach to set up shop.
You won’t need a boat or a guide to explore the treasures offshore here. The reef is accessible directly from the beach – but make sure to wear water shoes to avoid stepping on sharp rocks.
One of the best places for snorkeling here is at the Money Bar, which rents gear and lockers. When you’re done exploring, you can grab a snack and enjoy the beautiful views.
Address: Carretera Costera Sur Km 6.5, Zona Hotelera Nte., 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
8. Playa Mia Grand Beach Park
This beachfront water park is one of the largest of Cozumel’s beaches. Located on the western coast, it’s a popular spot for cruisers, day-trippers, and people staying on the island.
Jam-packed with things to do, Playa Mia has water park activities, dining, spa treatments, and, of course, a white-sand beach. It’s not uncommon to find guests booking a snorkel tour, hopping on an ATV, or taking a jet boat ride across the turquoise water.
Families will love the Floating Park as well, which includes a 500-foot-long adventure circuit with bouncing structures, trampolines, and other obstacles.
One of the more popular attractions is the underwater “Mayan city,” a replica of a submerged lost city. Snorkelers love to get lost among the “ruins,” which pay tribute to Cozumel’s Mayan heritage.
Address: Carretera Costera Sur Km 15, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
9. Paradise Beach
Five miles from the cruise ship pier, Paradise Beach packs in a day’s worth of fun for families. It’s a sheltered area, meaning the waters are calm and perfect for swimming.
A beach club offers refreshments and a pool, as well as lounge chairs. Guests can rent kayaks, snorkel equipment, and paddleboards. There’s a family-friendly floating adventure park as well.
The beach club is all-inclusive in terms of refreshments, pool, and facilities. The additional Fun Pass grants access to the water park, kayaks, snorkel gear, and more. For an additional fee, visitors can indulge in beach massages, henna tattoos, Jet Skis, and parasailing.
Address: Carretera Costera Sur, Zona Hotelera Nte., 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
10. Stingray Beach
Close to San Miguel, this west coast beach gets its name from – you guessed it – the stingrays that are always swimming just offshore. These gentle creatures glide effortlessly through the crystal-clear water, and are always friendly and welcoming to visitors.
The most popular excursion is the Rays & Sharks experience, which allows visitors to feed and hold the stingrays. You also have the potential to interact with small nurse sharks and colorful fish, surrounded by more than 800 different kinds of colorful coral.
Stingray Beach has many other activities, in addition to snorkeling with stingrays. Visitors can book stand up paddleboarding tours, chocolate workshops, open-sea snorkeling tours, and tours of Cozumel.
The beach has an entrance fee, so be sure to make the most of it and take advantage of all the activities it has to offer.
Address: Km. 2.8, Av. Rafael E. Melgar S/N, Centro, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
11. Playa Uvas
Two adjacent beaches make up Playa Uvas – Playa Uva Norte and Playa Uva Sur. Popular among locals and cruisers alike, these convenient beaches are beautiful, but can get a little busy, especially when a ship is in port.
Of the two beaches, Sur is the more developed one, with a beach club that has a restaurant, hammocks, a pool, sun loungers, a small spa, and facilities. The atmosphere is heightened by the sugary sand, translucent water, and endless views out to sea.
Playa Uva Norte is just as picturesque, but travelers will have to rely a little bit more on self-service, as there aren’t many facilities. Still, it’s wonderful for a picnic and a more DIY experience.
Address: Carretera a Chankanaab Km 8.5 s/n Zona Hotelera Sur, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
12. Playa Corona
It may be small in size, but it certainly packs a punch. The beach itself isn’t much to look at, but it is one of the best jumping-off points from which to explore the surrounding reefs.
Snorkeling off Playa Corona is nothing short of spectacular. The reef you’ll be exploring is Chankanaab, which is part of Chankanaab National Park.
The beach itself may be short on sand, but there is a beach restaurant that offers lounge chairs and refreshments. Visitors can rent snorkeling equipment, play beach volleyball, or simply lounge under the sun. But if it’s snorkeling you’re after, Playa Corona is one of the best spots on the island.
13. Mr. Sanchos Beach
Mr. Sanchos Beach is named for the largest beach club that sits on it. Fifteen minutes from San Miguel, this west coast hot spot is a big draw for families.
The beach itself has no charge, but there is a day pass to use the beach club for a small fee. This opens up swimming pools, hammocks, a spa, changing facilities, and a restaurant. You can sign up for WaveRunners, horseback riding, parasailing, and other popular activities.
Whether or not you opt for the beach club, there is plenty to enjoy along Mr. Sancho’s Beach. The sand is picture-perfect, as gentle, stunning waves slowly lap up on shore.
Address: Carretera Costera Sur Km. 15, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
14. Playa Bonita
Cozumel’s Playa Bonita will appeal to you if you like words like “remote,” and “pristine.” This quiet stretch of coastline is along Cozumel’s rugged eastern coast. While many beaches along the eastern coast of Cozumel are choppy, Playa Bonita remains calm and gentle, with turquoise water and beautiful views.
Not far from the beach, you’ll also find some Mayan ruins, which are absolutely worth a visit. These ruins were deeply important to the Mayan people because they believed that this point was the farthest end of their world. Lounging on the beach at the edge of civilization is not a bad way to spend an afternoon
15. Playa Azul
What’s great about Playa Azul is its location: it’s both conveniently located to things to do, yet feels like another world. This beautiful beach is located on the northwest corner of the island, not far from San Miguel, but still rather secluded.
Tourists who spend the day here can choose from a variety of activities, whether it’s sunbathing, snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming. The waves here are perfectly calm, and the water is gorgeous.
Showers and refreshments are available for visitors, and you’ll also find a few hotels in the area, should you want to stay a little longer. In fact, the restaurant at Playa Azul Beach Club is popular among residents and visitors. The food is delicious, and the prices are very reasonable.
Snorkeling cozumel
Snorkeling Cozumel is a great way to explore the underwater world of Cozumel.
This island is known for its coral reefs and marine life. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, there are many snorkel tours that will offer you the opportunity to see some of these amazing creatures.
Snorkeling in Cozumel is a great idea for anyone who wants to see what lies beneath the surface of the water without having to go scuba diving. It’s also a great option if you want to learn more about marine life without getting into any kind of training or certification process.
The best snorkeling in Cozumel is on the southern side of the island. There are also awesome scuba diving spots, so if you’re not a fan of snorkeling, don’t worry! You can still see some pretty incredible marine life in Cozumel’s waters.
You’ll have to rent your own gear (you can do it at the port), but there are plenty of places to rent them from. Just ask around when you get there.
What to Expect When Snorkeling in Cozumel
When snorkeling in Cozumel, you are bound to see colorful fish, unique sea animals, rays, turtles, and more! It’s an exciting location for exploring uncharted marine life.
The reefs are maintained and preserved by the government to ensure their stability and beauty lives to be seen and explored by visitors.
The Caribbean ocean is as clear, crisp, and turquoise blue as you could imagine.
Just being on the island of Cozumel will bring out the relaxation and adventurous side of all travelers who visit. Snorkeling is a must, especially since this destination is highly known for this activity. Consider adding this underwater heaven to your list of must-travel locations.
When choosing a place to snorkel, consider the fact that the best snorkeling can be found on the west and southwest side of the island.
