Almost all of Cozumel’s west and south coast lies next to the Cozumel Reefs National Park, and the island’s south end is a protected lagoon and beach reserve. Residents with a Cozumel residency card or driver’s license can get a Fundación de Parques y Museos card that gives free or reduced entry to Chankanaab, Punta Sur, the island museum and San Gervasio. The calm west coast beaches are best for swimming and snorkeling, while the wild east coast is mostly undeveloped and is valued for long walks and open views.
Each listing includes the location, a link and a map. Places change, so we review this list regularly; last reviewed October 2026.
Cozumel Reefs National Park (Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel)
Southwest and south coast · Marine national park
Waters off the southwest and south coast of Cozumel Island, Quintana Roo, Mexico
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Why we recommend it: This federal marine park, managed by CONANP and listed as a Ramsar wetland of international importance since 2005, protects about 11,987 hectares of coral reef that form part of the Mesoamerican Reef System. Residents value it as the reason Cozumel is a world diving and snorkeling destination, with rotating seasonal reef closures that help the coral recover.
Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
South tip of the island · Ecological reserve and beach park
Carretera Costera Sur Km. 9, zona Hotelera sur, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Run by the Fundación de Parques y Museos de Cozumel, this reserve of more than 1,000 hectares covers lagoons, mangroves, undeveloped beaches, a crocodile viewing tower and the Celarain Lighthouse. Residents value it for quiet beaches, wildlife and nature trails, with free or reduced entry through the resident park card.
Chankanaab Park
Southwest coast · Natural marine park
Carretera Costera Sur Km. 9, zona Hotelera sur, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Chankanaab is a natural park inside the reef national park with a natural lagoon, tropical gardens, shore snorkeling and diving, beach areas and a children’s playground. Residents use it for easy reef access close to town, and the foundation offers free summer Sunday openings and resident card discounts.
Playa Chen Rio
East coast · Public beach
Carretera Costera Oriente (east coast road), Cozumel, Q.R.
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Why we recommend it: Chen Rio is a free public beach on the rugged east coast where a natural rock formation shelters a calm, shallow cove. Residents value it as one of the few east side spots where swimming is usually comfortable, with chair rental and a restaurant nearby.
Playa San Martín
East coast · Public beach
Carretera Costera Oriente (east coast road), Cozumel, Q.R.
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Why we recommend it: San Martín is a wide, wild beach on the undeveloped east coast with strong waves and currents. Residents go there for long beach walks and open Caribbean views rather than swimming.
Playa San Juan
North hotel zone · Public beach
Carretera Costera Norte, Zona Hotelera Norte, Cozumel, Q.R.
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Why we recommend it: San Juan is a popular family beach on the north shore, close to town, with calm water and space for windsurfing and catamaran outings. Residents value it as an easy beach day that does not require crossing the island.
Dzul-Ha
Southwest coast · Shore snorkeling beach
Carretera Costera Sur Km. 6.5, Cozumel, Q.R.
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Why we recommend it: Dzul-Ha is a rocky stretch of the southwest coast where a healthy reef sits just off the shore, a short drive south of the cruise piers. Residents value it as one of the easiest places on the island to snorkel straight from the beach.
Living in Cozumel
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