Snorkeling in Cozumel is an incredible experience thanks to its beaches and reefs, which are some of the healthiest in Mexico. The water is always warm, and you can see for more than 100 feet across most reefs.
You can snorkel almost anywhere on the island, so it can be hard to narrow down where to go. All Cozumel snorkeling is beautiful, but the destinations on the list below are the best of a long list of great options.
Playa Mia

Playa Mia
Playa Mia is a one-stop-shop for a perfect day in the sand. At this sprawling beachside complex, you’ll find activities like water bikes, pools, swim-up bars, and a floating playground.
The best thing to see here may actually be under the sea: there’s an entire replica of a Mayan City just a few feet underwater right off the beach. Complete with temples and statues, the site offers some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel.
There’s no reef here, so it doesn’t have the marine life of other sites. Still, swimming over the underwater city is one of the best things to do in Cozumel, especially if you have a GoPro or underwater camera. It’s also a highly recommended spot for snorkeling in Cozumel if you have beginners in your group since the site is shallow and floatation devices and fins are included with gear rentals.
El Cielo

El Cielo
One of Cozumel’s most unique snorkeling sites is El Cielo, which translates to “the sky.” With bright blue water and a sandy bottom covered in starfish, it’s almost like looking down at a sky full of stars. These stars, however, are orange, red, and yellow, and they’re sea creatures, not astronomical objects. This area is a sanctuary for them, and you’ll spot one every few yards underwater.
El Cielo is on the far southwest side of the island, which has very little development inland. The easiest way to reach the beach is by boat, and since it’s generally only snorkeling boats that come here, you don’t have to share the water with kayakers or jetskiers. It can get a little windy here, but your boat operator should know where to drop anchor to ensure you can gently bob in the waves as you look for the starfish below.
Playa Palancar

Playa Palancar
Playa Palancar, one of the best places to go snorkeling in Cozumel, is home to a massive underwater reef with more than 150 animal species. The reef is so long that you’d need several hours to see it all.
There’s no limit to what fish you could see here, but if you’re lucky, you could see rare fish like the spotted smooth trunkfish, the grey angelfish, or even the splendid toadfish, which is only found in Cozumel. Two sites here—the Garden and the Shallows—have seagrass, where you might spot small nurse sharks, too.

Playa Palancar
Playa Palancar doesn’t top the list of the best snorkeling in Cozumel just due to its wildlife. The water usually hovers around a warm 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the reef is colorful, the current is minimal, and you can be in water anywhere from five to 80 feet deep, so it’s great for both beginners and expert snorkelers. If that weren’t reason enough to visit, Playa Palancar has a large sea turtle population, so keep an eye out for the slow-moving creatures while you’re there.
Punta Sur

Punta Sur
Some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel is at Punta Sur, an ecological reserve run by the government. The park is in a protected jungle area on the southernmost part of the island next to a sizeable lagoon. It attracts rare birds and sea turtles, and there are often flamingos near the shore.
To explore underwater, rent snorkel gear inside the park and sign up for a snorkel tour. There’s a small fee to enter the park that goes entirely toward the cost of reef protection efforts, so the reefs here are very healthy. That means they attract fish and ocean wildlife, so you’re all but guaranteed to see a wide variety of marine creatures. In addition to fish, spiny lobsters are common, as are barracuda and sea turtles.

Punta Sur
One of the reasons the reef is healthy is because it’s a bit off-shore, which protects it from waves and some human encroachment. You’ll need to swim out to it if you snorkel from the shore. It’s a gentle swim, but consider snorkeling first thing in the morning when the waves are calm. You can also visit by boat.
Read: Best Beaches in the Riviera Maya
Xcaret Natural Adventure Park

Xcaret
The area around Xcaret is one of the most interesting places to go snorkeling in Cozumel. The park is home to three underground rivers, each of which is about 2,000 feet long. The rivers pass through caves and grottos and thorough erosion-carved canyons with jungle growth on either side. The water comes from natural aquifers and filters in from the ground.

Xcaret
The best way to see these rivers is by snorkeling. While fish do sometimes swim into the rivers and live in the small caves along the walls, the most interesting part of snorkeling here is seeing the underwater stalagmite and rock formations, which are thousands of years old.
Once you reach the ocean, you can keep snorkeling in the reefs right offshore, so you’ll get to see ancient underwater cave formations and snorkel on lively, healthy ocean reefs during the same adventure.
Playa Las Casitas
Playa Las Casitas is a public beach with amazing opportunities to snorkel around two shipwrecks. There’s a buoy directly offshore, which you can use as a reference point. There’s one ship beyond the buoy and another one a few minutes’ swim left from that ship.
Both wrecks are well-preserved and in under 40 feet of water, so you’ll be able to see both very well from the surface—though you can hold your breath and dive down to take a closer look. Be sure you’re comfortable swimming longer distances before attempting to reach the wrecks, though, and keep an eye out for boats.
The beach is mostly a local’s beach, and while everyone is welcome, there aren’t any rental shops nearby; you’ll need to bring your own snorkel equipment. There are restrooms and a few covered tables, but not much else in the way of amenities. It’s just north of San Miguel, so expect no more than 10 minutes or so by taxi to get there.
Colombia Reef
With its vibrant coral formations, diverse marine life, and clear turquoise waters, Colombia Reef is known for some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel. Located on the southern side of Cozumel, the reef is part of the protected Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park.

Sea turtle
Thanks to its gentle currents and shallow depths, Colombia Reef is a go-to choice for both seasoned snorkelers and complete beginners. On most days, the water is crystal clear, providing excellent visibility of the numerous fish and marine wildlife that inhabit this area. Angelfish, parrotfish, and sergeant majors are usually seen swimming around the reef, as well as nurse sharks and stingrays. Although not guaranteed, the best time to spot sea turtles is early in the morning.
Colombia Reef is only reachable by boat, so booking a guided tour is necessary. Many tours span several hours, providing ample time to explore the reef, as well as other underwater formations, such as caves, tunnels, and coral spires.
Villa Blanca Reef

Blue tang
Already a popular spot for scuba divers, snorkelers will also enjoy the coral heads of Villa Blanca Reef. The reef is located just south of the main ferry pier and is easily reachable by taxi. From downtown San Miguel, you can even walk there.
On any given day, expect to see tropical fish like damselfish, blue tangs, scrawled filefish, and honeycomb trunkfish, as well as sponges. Some snorkelers spot barracudas and eagle rays, although those sightings are less common. There are a few areas where the reef drops off a bit, so keep this in mind when snorkeling. Total beginners are best off sticking to the shallowest areas.
Since Villa Blanca Reef is close to downtown San Miguel, you get to enjoy a variety of waterfront dining, shopping, and all the activity of the ferry pier.
Playa Corona
For a laid-back and budget-friendly beach day, head straight for Playa Corona, one of the best beaches in Cozumel. The beach is located next to Playa Mia Grand Beach Park and is about a 10-minute drive from San Miguel by taxi.

Sea cucumber
The beach is free to enter and offers basic amenities, including beach chairs, restrooms, and outdoor showers. The reef itself is small, but it’s still a great snorkeling spot, teeming with tropical fish, coral clusters, and the occasional sea cucumber or sea star. There’s also a place to rent snorkel equipment if you don’t have your own.
When you’re finished snorkeling, head to the beach bar restaurant for seafood like tacos and ceviche or just a coffee to get your energy back up. Cocktails are also available, and a fun way to wind down after a fun day out and about. All in all, Playa Corona is not as built up as other snorkel spots, but that’s also why many travelers prefer it.
Dzul-Ha Reef, or The Money Bar
Offering some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel, this popular shore snorkeling site is about a ten-minute drive south of San Miguel. It is commonly referred to as “The Money Bar” because the easiest way to access it is through The Money Bar Beach Club. From there, you can rent snorkel gear and use their facilities.

Angelfish
The reef is accessible from the shore and in shallow water, making it a family-friendly option and also ideal for complete snorkel beginners. There’s a roped-off area that indicates where snorkelers are welcome to explore. Angelfish, parrotfish, and stingrays often swim around the reef, and if you’re lucky, you’ll also see sea turtles swimming nearby.
The on-site restaurant serves a mix of Mexican and American fare, classic cocktails like margaritas, and a kids’ menu for families traveling together.
Read: Best Things to Do in Cozumel With Kids
Playa Azul
Located on Cozumel’s northwestern side, about a 10-15-minute drive north of San Miguel, Playa Azul is part of the Playa Azul Beach Club. You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy the beach, though non-guests are usually charged a day-use fee or asked to meet a minimum spend at the bar or restaurant.
The reef at Playa Azul isn’t as vibrant as those on the southern coast. Still, it’s an excellent spot for beginners or anyone who wants to enjoy a more laid-back, comfortable beach experience. Walk-up visitors have access to the beach from 10 am-6 pm, and snorkel gear is available for rent. You’ll also have access to restrooms, showers, and beach loungers.

Whale shark
For those interested in more adventure, the hotel also offers all-inclusive dive and snorkeling excursions. From June through September, there’s a seasonal opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks. These guided tours include transportation to the snorkel site. Peak whale shark season runs from June to August, though sightings may still occur in May and September.
Chankanaab Reef

Chankanaab Reef
Located within Chankanaab Park, about a 15-minute taxi ride south of San Miguel, Chankanaab Reef provides access to some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel. As part of the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park, the reef also boasts several underwater attractions, including coral formations, submerged statues, and a diverse array of fish species.
Snorkelers and scuba divers love this reef partly due to its marine life and also because it’s accessible from shore. A few common sightings include blue tangs, sergeant majors, and the endemic Splendid Toadfish. The submerged statues are also an interesting attraction, most notably a bronze statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe and a few replicas of Mayan artifacts.
Chankanaab Reef is also very family-friendly. Aside from the reefs themselves, Chankanaab Park features a playground, a sandy beach where you can lie back and relax, and several attractions, including a botanical garden.
Sky Reef

Parrotfish
Sky Reef is another snorkeling spot located within a beach club, offering a relaxing way to spend the day snorkeling, soaking up the sun, and enjoying ocean views with a margarita in hand. It’s located just a 15-minute drive south of downtown San Miguel by taxi.
While many people visit Sky Reef Beach Club for rest and good food, the reef itself often becomes the highlight. Coral heads, parrotfish, sea fans, and the occasional ray or eel can all be spotted just offshore. It’s a solid choice for beginner snorkelers, thanks to easy water access right off the shore.
Sky Reef Beach Club prioritizes comfort, with amenities that include lockers, gear rentals, bathrooms, showers, and a full-service bar and restaurant.
Punta Morena

Punta Morena
Located on the wilder, eastern side of Cozumel, Punta Morena offers a more rugged coastal experience with fewer crowds. From downtown San Miguel, it takes approximately 20-25 minutes by taxi, so be sure to set aside enough time for the round trip.
Because Punta Morena is less touristy, it’s a good idea to bring your own mask and snorkel, along with reef-safe sunscreen and any other essentials you might need. The water here is usually crystal clear, making it easy to spot colorful fish and other marine life while snorkeling.
Amenities are more basic, but you’ll still find the essentials, including a rustic beach bar, shady palapas, and hammocks for cooling off between swims.
Tormentos Reef

Spotted eagle ray
Tormentos Reef is only accessible by boat, but it’s easy to reach—just a five to ten-minute drive from downtown Cozumel to the departure point. Depending on the snorkeling tour you choose, Tormentos Reef may be included as a stop along with other popular sites like Yucab Reef and El Cielo.
The reef boasts a diverse array of marine life and numerous healthy coral formations. Parrotfish and angelfish are among the most common species you’ll spot while snorkeling, while sea turtles and spotted eagle rays are less frequent but possible.
Tormentos Reef is a good option for snorkelers of all levels, thanks to a mix of shallow and deeper areas. The gentle currents make it approachable, even for first-timers.
Snorkeling in Cozumel FAQs
What are the best snorkeling spots in Cozumel for beginners?

El Cielo
You don’t have to be a seasoned snorkeler to enjoy all that Cozumel has to offer. There are several beginner-friendly snorkel spots around the island, such as Chankanaab Park, Dzul-Ha Reef, Playa Corona, and El Cielo. These locations allow easy access to the water, often have gentle currents, and are ideal for learning at your own pace.
Can I snorkel in Cozumel without taking a tour?

Snorkeling in Cozumel
Whether you decide to snorkel as part of a group or solo really comes down to personal preference. Of course, safety-wise, it’s always a good idea to use the buddy system at the very least. Even if you are snorkeling solo, chances are you won’t be alone. Snorkeling is one of the top activities to do while in Cozumel, and even the more “hidden” spots usually include fellow snorkelers.
While tours are available for many of Cozumel’s most popular snorkel sites, several spots don’t require you to join a tour. Dzul-Ha Reef and Playa Corona allow visitors to snorkel from the beach. You can either use your own snorkel gear or rent some on-site. Similarly, Chankanaab Park also offers snorkeling, with lifeguards monitoring designated zones.
If planning to visit some of Cozumel’s most famous reef systems that are only reachable by boat, you’ll need to sign up for a guided tour. A few of these sites include Colombia, Palancar, and El Cielo.
Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?

Snorkel masks
Snorkeling is very popular in Cozumel, which means that most snorkel sites, like beach clubs and guided tours, offer rental equipment. However, if your suitcase allows and you prefer to pack your own for hygienic reasons, that is more than welcome.
Most first-time snorkelers pack a snorkel and mask, which are small enough to easily throw in a tote bag or beach bag, and then rent fins or life vests on-site. Also, be sure to pack sunscreen—a reef-safe option if available—and reapply it every two hours or whenever you exit the water. Some snorkelers also opt to purchase a pair of protective water shoes.
What kind of marine life can I see?

Marine life in Cozumel
The reefs in Cozumel are vibrant and teeming with marine life. Depending on the day, the weather, and the particular reef you’re exploring, you can see everything from schools of fish to sea turtles and stingrays.
Fish like parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and sergeant majors commonly live amongst the reefs. At the same time, nurse sharks make a rare appearance.
Whereas schools of fish are easy to spot, other marine animals like octopuses, lobsters, and moray eels require a bit more attention, as they tend to hide in the coral crevices.
What’s the difference between shore and boat snorkeling in Cozumel?

Playa Mia
The main difference between a shore snorkeling excursion in Cozumel and a boat snorkeling excursion is how and where you enter the water. Shore snorkeling lets you walk directly into the water, while boat snorkeling requires a boat ride to reach the reef. For example, Colombia, Palancar, and El Cielo are only reachable by boat.
Another difference between shore snorkeling and boat snorkeling is the type of marine life you’re likely to see. In general, the snorkeling spots that require a boat ride are more pristine reefs and part of Cozumel’s marine reserves. You’ll enter the water down a swim ladder, or simply by jumping in, depending on the size of the boat.
Is it safe for kids and families?

El Cielo
Snorkeling in Cozumel is generally a very family-friendly activity, especially in designated areas. Chankanaab Park is very safe for kids, as lifeguards are present to monitor the area, and the water is shallow and easily accessible.
El Cielo, although only accessible by boat, features calm and shallow water where kids can spot starfish from the surface. Another family-friendly snorkel spot is Money Bar. The water is gentle, and numerous fish swim close to the shoreline.
As a safety precaution, ensure children wear a life vest or snorkel vest, even in very shallow water. Also, make sure to stay in swim zones that are marked as safe. Guided tours will offer kid-friendly gear, as will most equipment rental shops.
When is the best time of year to snorkel in Cozumel?

Playa Mia
Snorkeling is a year-round activity in Cozumel, even when the weather dips slightly in the winter months. Generally, most travelers prefer to visit Cozumel between March and June. The water is warm—79–84°F—and has great visibility, allowing you to spot marine life of every size and color. There are also fewer storms to plan around.
Speaking of storms, if there is a time to avoid snorkeling, it is between September and November, also known as hurricane season.

Punta Morena
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