lifestyle, travel This is Cozumel

A fantastic range of beach clubs is open along Cozumel's south-western white sand coast. From tranquil beaches with fresh fish lunches to larger clubs with music, bars and restaurants.

As you travel south from downtown, the beaches are: Dzul Ha, Uvas, Playa Corona, Palm Beach, San Francisco, Paradise Beach, Playa Mia, Albertos, Mr Sanchos and Palancar Beach.

Dzul Ha has less sand since the hurricane, but the restaurant and bar are fully operational. Great for a relaxed day sitting around and entrance is free.

Uvas beach club caters for a trendier crowd and has higher prices, but offers a stylish club with chairs and umbrellas. Entrance is $7 per person and includes two drinks. Clear-bottom kayak tours are available for $40 per hour.

Playa Corona also has less sand since the hurricane, but again the restaurant and bar are fully operational. A nice quiet spot with a local feel if you just want to sit around and relax.

Palm Beach is only open to rent chairs and umbrellas - which cost $10 for 2 persons.

San Francisco still has a little damage to the building but is fully open. Entrance is free.

At Paradise Beach, entrance, chairs and umbrellas are free. An $8 fun-pass is also available for unlimited use of the beach toys - including kayaks, climbing iceberg and floating sunmats.

Playa Mia is a large beach club attracting a younger crowd. There is a $12 entrance fee, or $35 with domestic drinks included, or $42 with domestic drinks and buffet included.

Albertos offers basic facilities, but entrance, chairs and umbrellas are free and fresh fish lunches available. Perfect if you're looking for a quiet more secluded beach.

Mr Sanchos lost a lot of sand in Hurricane Wilma, but they have recovered and rebuilt well. Entrance is free and ATV, Waverunners and horseriding are available for $30 - $90.

Palancar Beach is the most southerly of the beach clubs. It offers more basic facilties but has a local atmosphere and offers snorkel boat tours. Entrance is free.

For updated information check out our Cozumel beach guide.