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Thirty miles south of Cancun and 12 miles from the coast lies the tropical island of Cozumel, a welcome change from the usual Caribbean island experience. The pace is slower and quieter. And on
Cozumel you won't find the degree of commercialism common to the islands farther east.
San Miguel, Cozumel's only town, is a pastel counterpart of many small Mexican towns. Some of its stone and plaster buildings are topped with yellow thatch roofs. In San Miguel and north of town on San Juan beach, are a number of modern hotels and older inns.
Snorkelers and scuba divers will appreciate the 200 to 300 foot visibility of the turquoise waters (30 feet is average along California's coast). With just a mask and snorkel you can easily explore the coral reefs and watch the schools of varicolored tropical fish that glide among them, unconcerned at your presence.
For amateur snorkelers, organized boat trips go to San Francisco beach. A guide will show you how to snorkel and point out different types of coral, fish, and other marine life. They will even catch lobsters, fish, and conch and prepare a barbecue lunch while you swim. These day long trips may be arranged through most hotels on the island.
Experienced scuba divers can rent tanks and regulators at several dive shops in San Miguel. But for the best scuba diving, you'll need to hire a boat and guide to take you to incredible Palancar Reef.
Air service to Cozumel makes the island easily accessible. Ferry service is available from Playa del Carmen, 42 miles south of Puerto Juarez on Highway 307.
