The 9 Best Beaches In Cozumel

The best things in life are simple — and it doesn't get much better than reducing your major decisions to which beach you want to visit during your upcoming cruise to Cozumel. This Mexican utopia is renowned for its glossy waters, coral metropolis and more beach club energy than you could shake a stick at — all lying beyond a cornucopia of white sand beaches. Narrowing the choice down to just one or two doesn't always come easy.

To help simplify the decision, this guide will outline the best beaches in Cozumel and lay out the most important considerations as you pick your place under the Caribbean skies.

1. Royal Beach Club Cozumel: Best Overall Beach Club

Royal Beach Club Cozumel's family-friendly, party-ready and laid-back vibes capture the spirit of Mexico. Chill out with your choice of soft sand beaches, pools with swim-up bars and cabanas — or meander between all three. With complimentary drinks and bites, three crave-worthy food spots and six bars to choose from, it’s easy to settle into a beach day that’s all about sun, flavor and effortless relaxation. If you’re looking to round out your time ashore, there are plenty of other things to do in Cozumel that make the island an easy favorite for families, couples and multigenerational crews alike.

Travel to the Royal Beach Club Cozumel takes a short 20-minute bus ride south from the cruise ship port. It's easier than ever to secure your spot — just head to your Cruise Planner or the Shore Excursions desk onboard and book this Cozumel beach excursion before you arrive.

2. Playa Cosmica: Best for Families

Parents cruising to Cozumel with the little ones in tow are often looking for a place that's accessible, has facilities and offers chill vibes. That's Playa Cosmica. It's a tiny beach so popular among locals that it's best to plan for the morning or early afternoon. Later in the day, it tends to get busier with children out of school.

You can buy lunch or snacks at the nearby restaurant and bar, and if you keep walking down the pavement until the sandy entrance to Playa Escondida is in sight, you'll find a collection of cool rock pools to explore or soak in. At less than 10 minutes' drive (or a 30-minute walk) from the cruise ship, this is among the best Cozumel beaches near the port.

Further afield, Playa Chen Rio, about a 40-minute drive from the port, features shallow waters ideal for the young ones to splash around in. Note that actual swimming is not recommended due to the surrounding reefs.

3. Chankanaab Beach and Marine Park: Best for Laid-Back Exploring

4. Playa San Francisco: Best Sandy Beach

5. Playa San Martin: Best for Mellow Vibes

6. Playa Palancar: Best for Sunsets

Palancar Beach is an easy yes for anyone dreaming of a good dose of neon splashed across the evening sky. Located on the south-west of the island, it's a fine location for leaning back in the sand or floating atop warm, emerald waves as you watch the sun go down.

While sunset might sound like prime time to visit this beach, don't be fooled. Just beyond the shoreline, you'll find a rare display of tropical fish darting through the world's second-largest coral system. If you're the type to throw on a mask and check out the marine life — or head deeper to shore dive the Palancar reef system and underwater caves — set your sights on Playa Palancar.

7. Playa Corona and Las Uvas Hidden Coves: Best for Snorkeling

Just 15 minutes from the cruise ship port, Playa Corona is the hassle-free threshold to some of Cozumel’s best offshore snorkeling. Plunge beneath the waves and you’re immediately in the realm of angelfish, parrotfish and coral gardens — without the crowds. Travel a few minutes further south to the coves of Las Uvas for calmer waters, ideal for beginners.

If you need a spot closer to the port, Dzul-Ha offers another easy-access reef located five minutes' drive down the road from the cruise ship.

8. Punta Sur Eco Park: Best for Nature

9. El Mirador: Best for Photography

From the perspective of your lens, the best beach in Cozumel is El Mirador. It’s a 30-minute drive from the cruise port, featuring not only a dramatic beach but also an elevated rock system to explore and photograph. With powerful waves and an exposed coastline, this one's not for swimming.

If you're bringing expensive photography gear, remember to wrap it in something highly inconspicuous (so you don't draw attention to it) — I usually go for an old cotton tee or an unmarked canvas bag. Instances of petty crime are rare on the island, but it's a good rule of thumb, regardless of where you travel with your gear.

How To Choose Your Ideal Beach on Cozumel Island

What Activities Do You Want To Do?

Who Are You Traveling With?

How Do You Want To Move Around?

On Cozumel Island, there are a few ways to get around, each with a different vibe.

● Walking: If you prefer to stay within stone's throw of the ship, pick one of the many beaches within walking distance. Expect to walk anywhere between 30 minutes and one hour one-way.

● Bicycle: For an authentic traverse through Cozumel's sights, smells and sounds, hiring a bicycle opens up your beach options. It's a great choice if you're the photography type — just go in prepared to be on the road for 15 minutes to a few hours (not including stop times).

● Taxi: Planning to have a few cold ones or just want to hit the waves ASAP? Grab a cab — they will take you to and from your destination. Bring cash (credit cards are not accepted) and agree on the price before you ride.

● Driving: If you're craving freedom of movement, hiring a car or scooter will hand it to you. This option makes it way easier to explore whichever beautiful beach takes your fancy and spend some time zooming around the island.

How Long Do You Have in Cozumel?

Those escaping on a short cruise getaway to Mexico might find that the beach day decisions become all the more significant. However, if your stop is part of a longer adventure, consider how to make the most of what Mexico and Cozumel have to offer and how that gels with the rest of your vacation lineup.

What's Your Budget?

Get the Most Out of Your Cozumel Beach Day