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Two among the many great beaches on Cozumel’s southwest coast: San Francisco and others near it are great for all-round relaxation; Playa Sol is best if you want a beach with loads going on.

The best beach on Cozumel’s rugged eastern shore, with a sheltered cove for lazy swimming, while further along the sands you could even surf. There’s also a beach restaurant worth a special visit.

A curving white sand bay with a likable beach bar and cabañas (see Cabañas María del Mar, Isla Mujeres). With over 2 km (1 mile) of beach, the camp site doesn’t obstruct the view, and the sands are never crowded.

Seven bays with some of the coolest, whitest sand, most graceful palms, and most colorful coral on the Riviera. Several are occupied by resorts, but X-4 and X-7, signposted on the Highway, are open to anyone.

As the name suggests, “Half Moon Bay” is an exquisite, near-perfect crescent of brilliant white sand and calm sea. The atmosphere is just as tranquil: around it there are condos and villas, and at the north end is the lovely YalKu lagoon (see Laguna Yal-Ku, Akumal).

The beach in the center of Akumal is a little busier, and behind it there’s a bigger choice of lowkey bars and shops.

Shaded by lolling palms, this near-empty beach feels far from anywhere, even though it’s only a dirt-track away from the Highway. A few boats on the sand and the bar (see Oscar y Lalo, Punta Solimán) are the main signs of habitation.

The beaches at the north end of Tulum are the favorites for anyone who wants to hang out and get to know people in the bargain-basement cabañas . They also have the best view of the ruins (see Tulum Ruins).

The place for people who want to find some seclusion in Tulum, with longer, broader, whiter beaches, acres of space, and quite luxurious comforts in some cabañas .

Getting to these remote, deserted beaches involves negotiating the wild, rutted road between Boca Paila and Punta Allen. So, whether this appeals or not may depend on your vehicle.