Beaches vary from long stretches of white sand to rocky shores with hidden coves.
But all are famous for their crystal clear waters, where visibility is rarely less than 100 feet and often reaches 200 feet. The eastern shore has magnificent, dramatic scenery, but its deadly undertow makes it unsafe for swimming. Hitting the Beach Playa San Francisco and Playa Palancar, on the southern leeward end, offer some spectacular shores. But Chankanaab Nature Park, located just south of Cozumel's lone town, San Miguel, sports the island's best beach. This government-established wildlife sanctuary and botanical garden contains a saltwater lagoon, a protected bay, underwater caves, offshore reefs, and a sunken ship.