Palancar Beach is situated on Cozumel, an island destination renowned for its snorkeling and diving. The island is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest reef in the world and the largest reef in the Americas. This beach is the quintessential Mexican Caribbean experience, with darting tropical fish visible from the beach, calm water and palm trees.
The wonderful thing about Palancar Beach is that it feels like a private beach. It’s quieter than most other beaches on Cozumel and offers great activities and a calm atmosphere.
Sway in a hammock under the palms and order a margarita from one of the beachside bars. The seafood here is fabulous. Make sure you try the local favorites: ceviche, a seafood dish marinated in citrus juice with chilies or peppers, and filete al mojo de ajo, grilled fish and garlic.
When it’s time to get active, rent some snorkeling gear and simply float out from the beach, or join a dive trip to one of the spectacular nearby reefs.
The beach offers plenty of other water-based activities too, from sea kayaking to paragliding.
Palancar Beach is the perfect place to rejuvenate the mind and body. Book a beachside massage or beauty treatment in one of the resort spas, then find gifts and souvenirs among the local arts and crafts from the small market stalls.
Easy to get to, Palancar Beach is only 20 minutes’ drive south of San Miguel, via the coastal road. Rent a motorcycle or car, or hail a taxi or minivan.
Palancar Beach
Visit Palancar Beach
Browse tours and tickets to explore Palancar Beach
Tours & day trips
See all 248 activities
Transparent Boat & Snorkel Tour with drinks
Private & custom tours
See all 86 activities
Double Atv Tour In Cozumel And Cenote Jade
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 31 activities
Cozumel: El Cielo, Palancar Reef, and Beach Party with Food
Classes & workshops
See all 14 activities
Cozumel: Chocolate Workshop at The Mayan Cacao Company
Theme parks
See all 11 activities
Chula’s All Inclusive Beach Pass with Transport
Reviews of Palancar Beach
5/5 - Excellent
Awesome beach and staff
5/5 - Excellent
Long taxi ride (25 minutes) but nice beach and good food.
3/5 - Okay
Great food! But nothing to see if snorkeling off the beach.
5/5 - Excellent
Bring towels and cash if you want to enjoy the restaurants. Beach was free of seaweed and water was crystal clear.
4/5 - Good
It closes by 5:30pm sharp. They will close the gate on you if your not off the property by then. It’s a free beach, decent. The beach is part of the restaurant. You do not have to eat there. The Parking is free however they like tips. We did not tip them. There were a lot of animals walking along the beach such as peacocks and iguanas.
5/5 - Excellent
Best fajitas ever at Playa Palancar
Popular places to visit
Nachi Cocom Beach Club & Water Sport Center
Bring your family to Nachi Cocom Beach Club & Water Sport Center and enjoy some excitement at this amusement park in Cozumel. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Mr. Sancho's Beach Club
Enjoy an outing to Mr. Sancho's Beach Club during your stay in Cozumel. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park
Bring the family to Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park and enjoy the excitement of this theme park in Cozumel. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Paradise Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Paradise Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Cozumel. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park and enjoy the snorkeling spots in Cozumel. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Laguna Colombia
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Laguna Colombia during your travels in Cozumel. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Best Lodging Options Near Palancar Beach
Check availability on hotels close to Palancar Beach
