Playa El Cielo

The basics

As one of the most popular destinations on Cozumel, Playa El Cielo is included in many boat and snorkeling tours, including half-day and full-day tours by speedboat, glass-bottom boats, and catamarans. Many tours include stops at nearby Palancar Reef and Columbia Reef before stopping at Playa El Cielo for snorkeling; some also let you party in the water with snacks or stop at a beach club on Cozumel. While most tours depart from Cozumel, some tours include ferry service from Playa del Carmen and elsewhere on the Riviera Maya.

Things to know before you go

• Playa El Cielo is only accessible by boat.
• You can rent chairs at the beach; food and drinks are also available.
• Most tours include snorkeling gear and snacks or beverages.

How to get there

Playa El Cielo is located on the southwest tip of Cozumel, around 16 miles (26 kilometers) south of San Miguel de Cozumel. The only way to access the beach is by boat, as there are no roads that lead to the beach. Numerous boat tours are available, and many include transfers from the ferry pier, cruise port, and select Cozumel hotels.

When to get there

Playa El Cielo can be visited year-round, though it will be at its busiest from December through April. During high season, opt for a private tour with flexible timing to avoid visiting during the most crowded times, when the waters are full of boats and revelers. Hurricane season runs from June through November.

Columbia Reef

Located near Playa El Cielo, many tours combine a visit to Columbia Reef with Playa El Cielo. The reef includes a shallow area (Columbia Shallows) suitable for snorkelers and beginner scuba divers, and a deeper section (Columbia Deep) ideal for experienced scuba divers who want to explore its tunnels and caves. Both areas also feature plentiful marine wildlife.