Waves splashing on Punta Morena Beach

Miles of virgin beach  coupledwith huge waves attract surfing fans to Punta Morena Beach in Cozumel, Mexico. Located on the quiet, undeveloped East Coast of the island, Punta Morena supplies fun for beach bums and surfers alike.  A 20-mile-stretch of coastline, pearly sand beaches and exposed coral shelves reveal Cozumel’s beauty from a vastly different perspective than what you see from a cruise ship. Palm trees wave and blow holes push out shooting cascades of water.  On weekends, locals sail boats and call to dolphins by tapping on the side of their vessels.  The dolphins magically appear and swim along with the boats.  A looming, white cross guards Punta Morena and it seems to spread a tranquil vibe across the entire area. You can go hours without seeing anybody except a few surfers and divers.

Punta Morena offers few tourist amenities besides hammocks and a great beach cafe that serves fresh shrimp fajitas but I think that adds to the natural charm of the beach. For surfers, there are cute, thatched-roof, beach cabanas for rent.  The rooms are small and only offer sleep and bath basics, which is all you really need.  Surf, dive or sprawl in a hammock  while catching a breeze, Punta Morena will remind you that paradise is all about the simple things.

A Thatched-Roof Beach Cabana

Photos by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates