Everyone wants to find the best beach in Cozumel, but I personally don’t always want to pay $20 just to get close to the ocean. What if you don’t want all the amenities (pool, chairs, food, toys) and just want to put out a towel and read peacefully? In this article I give you the inside scoop to 100% Free – Best Public beaches in Cozumel mexico and the ones that are no longer free.
Imagine someone or other blogs say “hey this beach in Cozumel is free” but when you get there they ask for $20 entrance fee. You feel like a idiot and now your upset. Well not with my blog. My info is up-to-date and I also talk about a hidden gem free beach NOBODY talks about. But first.
The water in Cozumel has an irresistible factor to it and 3 years ago I almost died swimming near Secrets Aurora All Inclusive Resort. I had no idea how a simple swim could turn so dangerous so fast. Keep reading to hear my story and learn my mistakes.
There are beaches that are free to the public in cozumel, you just have to know how to get to them. Also, I tell you the best beaches for snorkeling (yes free if you have equipment). The warm blue colors and clarity literally call you to its shores (especially the free ones). But, please I beg you to consider how dangerous it can be if you don’t educate yourself, my story is highlighted in blue for easy reading.
Public Beaches In Cozumel
These beaches have free public access, and offer safe swimming conditions when the water is calm. They’re ideal for travelers who want a beautiful beach day without paying for a beach club access.
Playa Palancar
Cost: Free *No longer Free*
This beach is located on the southern most west side of the island furthest away from the cruise port. They are a beach club yes, but they are one of the few no entrance fee beach clubs in Cozumel. Also among the most popular public beaches with some of the calmest water on the west side. Recent research shows that Palancar beach club changed their policy and now require visitors to spend at least 200 pesos ($16 usd) and the access is free.
You can just hop a taxi and head down. With a massive rock free swimming area palancar beach is great for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and escaping crowds while still having optional paid amenities nearby if you change your mind
Playa San Francisco
Cost: Free w/ $20 food purchase
Although its surrounded by beach clubs, the shoreline itself is public. The water here is typically very calm and shallow, making it perfect for swimming and families.
*NOTE: Don’t get this confused with our Jer asking Cozumel location within San Francisco Beach Club. The free beach itself is further down. See photo.
Playa San Martín
- Cost: Free
This is a great place for a peaceful break away. Known as the 7-miles of virgin beach it’s A large open public beach on the east side. Waves can be stronger here, so check conditions — but on calmer days, it’s a wide, gorgeous place to swim with lots of space. There is also a bar & Grill within walking distance of you get hungry and also bathrooms.
This side of the island is WINDY be prepared and check the wind before
Playa Chen Río
Cost: Free
I don’t recommend this beach for cruise passengers because it would take up to much of your time for travel. This beach is great for people taking a day trip from playa del Carmen to Cozumel. The location and transportation needed makes it ideal for people with their own vehicle or multi- day vacations in cozumel.
It’s busy and popular. Located on the west side and known for its rock-protected natural pools that break the waves and create safe swimming pockets. One of the best options for a public beach on the east side with added protection.
Important Beach Tips
There a couple things you should consider before choosing your beach here they are
- Sandy Beaches are sparse – Most of the northern island is rocky. More than 50% of the beaches in this list have rocks.
- West vs East – Beaches on the west are calm, closer to the ports and offer more amenities. It’s also where 90% of beach clubs are. The east side is furthest from cozumel’s cruise ports, usually windy and is less developed. Rip tides are a big danger learn more about them below.
- 100% Free Beaches – There are only two truly free beaches the rest are creative in how you access them.
Can You Just Go To A Beach In Cozumel?
Yes, you can easily go to a beach in Cozumel, as all beaches in Mexico are technically public property. But there’s a catch to it, keep reading. The ease of access and use of amenities varies significantly.
Most of the prime swimming areas on the calm, West Side are bordered by private Beach Clubs and resorts. I have a list of beach clubs in cozumel that is a super useful resource when deciding where to spend the day. Remember, when you book any of our Cozumel excursions you get free access to all of our amenities which aren’t available at public access beaches
Best Public Beach In Cozumel
The best Public beach for swimming in Cozumel is Chen Rio (about a half km south of Coconut’s.) The public access is right before El Pescador.
This public swimming area has a small tidal pool and a nice beach that makes it safe for families. This is the spot for a completely free and natural experience on the island’s.
Travel details to Chen Rio from cruise port
- Distance: Approximately 10 to 12 miles (16 to 19 km) from the main cruise ports (Puerta Maya or International Pier).
- Travel Time: The drive typically takes about 25 minutes one-way, as it requires crossing the island
- Cost: For a taxi ride from the cruise port to Chen Rio you can expect to pay $30-$35
Keep in mind majority of cozumel’s shoreline is Rock so public swimming places are few and far between. Be aware that the East Side is known for large waves and strong currents, which is largely my reason for writing this blog as a part of my is Cozumel safe for tourists series. Looking for beaches close to the Cozumel’s cruise port. Keep reading.
Not all beaches have lifeguards. Be carefully and look for danger flags
Where To Eat Near Chen Rio
If you choose Chen Rio to swim from our list of free access beaches in Cozumel, I HIGHLY suggest you don’t pass up the chance to experience Coconuts Bar & Grill. It’s Just down the road like 1 mile.
They have lots of animals like a small zoo, and you get the chance to eat on a cliff overlooking the ocean! This is an adult bar families are ok eating there but be cautious most customers are adults and that’s what the staff are used to dealing with.
With over 2k Google reviews and a 4.5 star rating is a must see place. It’s super cool even just walking up to the bar. It’s like your favorite small bar back home with tons of history and memories.
Cozumel Beaches Map
Before we dive into the details of my story I wanted to provide a quick visual aid for finding cozumels beaches. I have to apologize in advance for the crudeness of this map! It’s a quick generated image to help you get your bearings on the island. While it may not be a professional-grade nautical chart, it should give you a good idea of where everything is located relative to each other.
Think of it as your trusty (if slightly messy) trail map—functional enough to keep you pointed toward the nearest stretch of white sand and turquoise water!
Beaches Near Cozumel Cruise Port
There are only two beaches within walking distance from Cozumel cruise ports. These don’t require you to take a taxi or rent a care. I list three other beaches slightly further that have free beach access too.
- Caletita Beach: The absolute closest beach, generally walkable (approx. 0.1 miles). Best for a quick dip or short visit, but note it is rocky and has limited services.
- El Cid La Ceiba Hotel: Located right by the International Cruise Terminal (0.1 – 0.5 miles, walkable). Offers the quickest access to calm water and lounge chairs if you secure a day pass.
- Money Bar Beach Club: A very short taxi ride (1 – 1.5 miles, 5 minutes) from the main piers. An excellent, convenient option known for its great snorkeling right off the shore, with full-service food and drinks.
While you can walk along the sand, you can NOT use chairs, umbrellas, restrooms, or resort facilities. Truly free, public access beaches with open parking and no fees are available, especially on the rougher East Coast, but they typically have fewer amenities and no lifeguards.
What is The Nicest Beach In Cozumel
The “nicest” beach in Cozumel is Playa Palancar. Remember, palancar is no longer free, but it is still a top choice for a large beach with a relaxing atmosphere. It’s busy but less crowded than other beaches. While Paradise Beach is ideal for those seeking amenities like water sports, pools, and food service. For snorkeling, both Playa Corona and the accessible reef at Playa Palancar are excellent options.
Best Beach For Snorkeling In Cozumel
The best beach for snorkeling in Cozumel is Money Bar Beach. This is the top public swimming area chosen for frequent snorkelers and is also a free public access beach. Don’t get it mixed up with the beach club entrance. Specifically the small sandy area to the right of the beach club access.
- Dzul-Ha a.k.a “Money Bar This is one of the best shore-access snorkeling spots on the island. It has a reef close to shore, easy water entry, shallow water, and abundant marine life even without a boat.
- Playa Corona – Is named among top snorkeling beaches from shore. It has a small reef relatively close to the shore, good clarity, and accessible without extensive boat travel or fees.
- Playa Palancar – Is commonly suggested as one of the best beaches in Cozumel and also for it’s snorkeling area — though much of the reef is accessed by boat; the shore-entry snorkeling may be limited depending on conditions.
Some of the best snorkeling spots (reefs) require boat access — for example deeper reefs like those in marine-park zones or off-shore reef systems. For these ultimate experience consider booking our all inclusive Cozumel snorkel tour.
Our snorkel tours start at $75 and range from 1-3 hours. Each include a trip to El Cielo reef after stopping at 2 other coral reefs. The snorkel excursion is literally unforgettable once you see just how clear the water is. See images from our tour below.
No matter which of the public beaches in Cozumel mexico you choose, remember that not all public access points are patrolled by lifeguards, so always stay vigilant, use the buddy system, and know how to spot the dangers of rip tides.
Beach Swimming Safety
Swimming in the waters of Cozumel Mexico is generally considered safe if you avoid the foolish mistakes I made in 2022. Now is probably to tell you about our article with tips on what not to do in Cozumel mexico. I have to warn you, in my many trips to the island, I’ve encountered some things that I think you should know about before you set off.
Tips For Safe Swimming
As common sense as the following things seem it never hurts for a little reminder. I found myself in a bad situation one time swimming just off the shore while staying at Secrets Aura Cozumel a adults only all-inclusive resort. In that moment I literally said out loud “I’m not dying out here” and rolled onto my back to catch my breath. Below is a photo of me on that day that leads me to my first tip.
1. Only Swim in Designated Areas
If I tooky own advice instead of being cool and overly confident I could have avoided this close cal all together. I swam in a area where there were no life guardes because the beach area was a little rocky. Choose beaches with designated swimming zones. They are designated For a reason.
2. Use the Buddy System
Never swim alone, While swimming off the shore my wife was with me grant it she was there and seen me but she eventually realized the REAL trouble in was in. When I found myself being pulled further and further from shore she could tell, I saw her run over to the lifeguard. Having someone who pays attention to you is a great way to increase safety. They can help or get help likely faster than a lifeguard would see you.
3. Avoid Alcohol & Swimming
This was my 1st mistake, I was not drug and feeling good so I decided to swim out deeper. Alcohol impairs judgment, reduces muscular function. Slows your reaction time and can makes you cramp. It dehydrates you and reduces your performance. Enjoy and have fun, but remember to use good judgment. Do NOT drink alcohol and swim in the ocean.
4. Wear Protective Footwear
It Looks cheesy when you see others wearing them. But, there are rocks, and sharp things underwater you may not see. While at the resort on the north side of the pier, there are small rocks and a 15 ft area of stone underwater.
My personal experience
During my near death experience I had to many alcoholic beverages and felt overly confident. I decided to swim out waist high and then wanted to go deeper. Now I’m a very strong swimmer, I’m usually the person who wins races in the pool and have been doing it for over 20 years. So I felt perfectly comfortable b swimming out deep enough where I couldn’t touch.
Dangers of Beach Swimming
Cozumel, is a Caribbean treasure. Hurricane Season in cozumel has it’s own dangers, but it’s crucial for travelers, including you to understand the unique aspects of its marine environment and the life that exists within it. Here is a short list of dangers you can expect:
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Jellyfish
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Coral Reefs
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Rip Tides
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Sea Urchins
The island’s waters are home to a variety of marine species from the uncommon sea urchins, to my worst fear. Jellyfish, coral reefs, and the many creatures living around them. Explore our post to learn more about dangerous animals in Cozumel.
Continued: Around this time the waves were crashing and it was a really cool experiences to feel the power of the ocean wash me in 3-8 feet towards shore. Just the raw energy of the ocean is impressive that’s why amusement parks install wave pools for visitors to enjoy. So I went deeper and before you knew it shore looked far away.
Peeing on a jellyfish sting does not help with pain. It’s a myth.
I was enjoying myself for about 4-5 minutes before I realized the beach was further away that I would prefer. My heart was pumping from all the swimming and I wanted a break so I did the breast stroke back to the beach but it only got further as further away…
Where is the safest place to swim in cozumel?
Cozumel has tons of options when it comes to swimming. The safest place to swim in cozumel is in the most populated areas typically found on the shores of the beach clubs in cozumel, and snorkeling tour spots such as Mr. Sanchos and Punta Sur Ecological Park.. You can swim on any side of the island honestly but some are safer than others. Choosing the right swimming location is crucial.
Places to avoid swimming
You would think the biggest thing to fear when it comes to the waters of Cozumel would be something like a shark. But no! The most dangerous place to swim is cozumel is the east shore of the island. Swimming is possible but not recommended. The winds typically come in the from east which causes intense strong waves that crash into land.
Family Safe Beaches in Cozumel
The best place for families to swim in cozumel is still beach clubs also. This is safe, they have lots of things to keep the kids busy and also mom and dad can relax. You have the water obstacle course, free snorkel gear with a beach club day pass, food, drink, and more importantly safe water for your family to swim in.
The sheer number of people in the water making noise, and moving around will naturally deter any animals that could potentially be harmful besides tiny fish. Remember, snorkeling tours, the dolphin experience, and other water activities are more than safe. For strictly swimming I recommend a public beach or beach club.
Extra precautions are necessary when swimming with family, especially children. Ensure children are supervised and understand water safety. Use appropriate flotation devices for added safety.
Story continued
As the beach was getting further and further away I started to panic slightly but I’m more confident because to this point I’ve never encountered a swimming challenge I couldn’t overcome. At this point I realized I was being pulled away from shore by a rip current. So what did I do? I tried a couple things.
First I swam like hell back towards shore pushing and digging my hands in the the water as hard and fast as I could. I would pump hard for 15 seconds, bring my head up out of the water and look and I would be any closer. I did this 4x and accepted the fact it wasn’t working. So I tried a different tactic.
I would time the waves crashing and let them push me back to shore. So I tried around and face the waves coming in and kicked like hell to get my body to the surface of the wave and that worked but not as good as I hoped. Then I realized it was out so deep that the waves weren’t forming nearly as strong anymore. This all happened within a matter of 60 seconds I was pulled back 80 feet further from shore.
It was at this point I seen the lifeguard coming over near my fiance and looking at me. I waved but I need both hands to tread water so I only did that twice before I was forced to turn onto my back and float. When I looked the lifeguard was coming into the water..
Do Public Beaches Have Lifeguards
The only beach in Cozumel that I’ve seen a lifeguard at are those beaches near Beach Clubs and at Chen Rio. Public beaches and other non popular places are not manned by lifeguards. The beaches in Cozumel have flags. These flags are current warnings and indications of the water outside of Cozumels hurricane season. They will let you know if it’s safe to swim in. The public beaches don’t have lifeguards, but some of the private beaches do.
Beach Warning Flags
In Cozumel, the lifeguard team utilizes a straightforward beach flag system, akin to the universally recognized traffic light colors, to ensure swimmer safety. A green flag signals that the water conditions are safe, inviting swimmers of all ages to relish the Caribbean waters with confidence.
However, when a yellow flag is hoisted, it’s a clear indication to exercise caution. Both adults and children are welcome to swim under these conditions, but it’s crucial to remain vigilant and closely monitor your family and friends for a safe and enjoyable experience
Safest Parts Of The Island To Swim
For safe swimming, consider:
- Playa Palancar: Gentle waves, ideal for families.
- Chankanaab Beach: Calm waters with lifeguard supervision.
- Paradise Beach: Clear, calm waters suitable for all ages.
- Punta Sur Eco Beach
How I Almost Died In Cozumel
I was exhausted, my heart was pounding out of my chest andy lungs were burning. Nobody tells you just how salty the water is and how bad it burns your eyes after continuous exposure. After a 30 second rest I say out loud (but to myself) “I’m not dying out here” and I analyze the situation.
I have been trying to swim towards shore where there are no waves, I see the big waves that can push me back to shore and 40 feet to my left. So I swim parallel to the shore toward the big waves and attempt the previous strategy of using the waves to push me to shore.
It was insane how fast it happened… It’s like I found a sweet spot of water trying to save me. I alternated between floating on my back, timing the big waves breaking and swimming as hard as I could and after 3 try of the same strategy I’m a different location I could finally touch the sand! At least until the waves receeded. Within 2 minutes I was back to a depth I could touch (I’m 6’5″) and I was rushing to get out of the water. I just wanted to be free of this monster that would have taken my life if I had panicked and forgot to float.
So what was it that almost killed me? I didn’t learn until 5 days later it was a naturally occuring Rip Tide that can happen anywhere there are waves. This experience is the reason I wrote this blog. Just a week ago a 7 year old girl died after being caught in a rip tide and her father couldn’t save her somewhere in America. Read below how to spot and avoid theme now that you’ve learned from my mistake.
Rip Currents: A Real Swimming Danger
To spot a rip current, look for differences in water color, waves, and movement. Rip currents often appear as a channel of churning, choppy water, an area having a notable difference in water color, a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving steadily seaward, or a break in the incoming wave pattern.
How to Spot a Rip Tide
A rip current is a strong, localized, and rather narrow current of water moving away from shore. Found near beaches, it moves directly away from the shore, cutting through the lines of breaking waves. Rip currents typically form in low spots or breaks in sandbars, and also near structures such as jetties and piers.
Avoid a Rip Tide
To avoid a rip tide, always swim at lifeguard-patrolled beaches and heed their warnings. Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties, as rip currents often form near these structures. If you’re unsure about water conditions, ask a lifeguard for advice, and always stay vigilant while swimming.
How To Escape A Rip Tide
If caught in a rip current, it’s crucial to remain calm and conserve energy. Don’t fight the current by trying to swim directly back to shore. Instead, swim parallel to the shoreline until you’re out of the current’s grip.
Once free, angle yourself towards the beach and swim back. If you can’t break free, float or tread water and signal for help by waving your arms and shouting. Remember, rip currents are powerful but typically narrow; escaping is often a matter of swimming sideways, not directly against the current’s force.
More Beach Swimming Tips
The island’s vibrant marine life and coral reefs are a major attraction. Swimmers should avoid disturbing these ecosystems. Be conscious of the creature’s presence and do your best to avoid them while still enjoying the sight of them. While swimming there are two big no-no’s
Example 1: When swimming you are supposed to use coral reef-friendly sunblocks. This preserves the ecosystem. Many sunscreens have active ingredients that are incredibly damaging to marine life. Read more about coral reef safe sunscreen. Oxybenzone and octinoxate in particular are known to damage and kill sea animals. Especially the focus is on coral reefs, where sunscreen has been causing coral bleaching.
Example 2: Picking up starfish during a snorkel tour or scuba Diving adventure. This is a big no-no on the island. When you pick up a starfish the pills on your skin and the sunscreen can clog the pores of the starfish. Starfish breathe through their outer skin, so it’s possible the starfish could suffocate from too much handling. As cool as they look, you should not pick up a starfish. It’s the best way to Respect marine life.
While Cozumel’s beaches are a highlight, there’s much more to explore and enjoy. Head over to my is cozumel safe for tourists in 2025 to learn more valuable tips before traveling to this wonderful island and booking your vacation excursion with our 100% Money Back Guaranteed
