Money Bar Beach Club: Our Expert Visitor's Guide

Imagine stepping onto a sun-soaked deck, the turquoise Caribbean stretching before you, a refreshing drink in hand, and some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel just a few steps away. No expensive day passes. No crowds. It's just pure island relaxation. Welcome to Money Bar Beach Club—one of Cozumel's best spots for an easy, affordable, and unforgettable beach day.

In this guide, I'll share everything you need about Money Bar, from its stunning oceanfront views and delicious food to its hassle-free access and world-class snorkeling. Whether you're in Cozumel for a quick cruise stop or a more extended island getaway, this hidden gem is just minutes from the cruise piers and downtown San Miguel—so you can maximize your beach time without spending half the day in transit.

You're in the right place if you're looking for a laid-back beach vibe with excellent service, clear waters, and no pressure to spend more than you want. Let's dive into why Money Bar Beach Club should be at the top of your must-visit list!

Money Bar Beach Club: What Makes It So Special

Money Bar Beach Club is one of those rare finds where everything works—great snorkeling, solid food, and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to hang out for hours. The Dzul-Ha Reef is offshore so you can snorkel straight from the beach—no boat is needed. The water is shallow and calm, making it perfect for beginners. Forgot your gear? No problem. You can rent snorkel equipment on-site for just a few bucks. Expect to see plenty of tropical fish, and if you're lucky, you might spot a stingray cruising along the ocean floor.

I couldn't resist jumping in as soon as I arrived. Schools of colorful sergeant majors and parrotfish surrounded me within minutes.

The highlight? Spotting a tiny octopus shifting colors as it blended into the rocks. After an hour in the water, I grabbed a shady table, ordered a shrimp ceviche, and paired it with an ice-cold margarita. The portions were generous, the flavors fresh, and the two-for-one happy hour made it even better. Watching the sunset with a margarita in hand while the sky turned shades of pink and orange? It was the perfect way to end the day.

Unlike the more prominent, all-inclusive beach clubs, Money Bar keeps it simple—no entrance fees, no wristbands, and no overwhelming crowds. Just grab a seat, soak up the ocean breeze, and enjoy the easygoing atmosphere. Even when the evening crowd rolls in for live music, the vibe stays fun but never too wild. 

Where Is Money Bar Beach Club?

Money Bar Beach Club is on Cozumel's west coast, about six miles south of downtown San Miguel in the Southern Hotel Zone. It's easy to get to, no matter where you're coming from.

If you're on a cruise, it's just a five-minute taxi ride from Puerta Maya or the International Pier and about ten minutes from Punta Langosta. Taxi drivers line up outside the ports, charging $10–$15 per cab. No need for a tour—grab a cab and go.

The History of Money Bar Beach Club

Before Money Bar, this stretch of coast was a local snorkeling secret. The Dzul-Ha Reef has always been one of the best shore-access reefs on the island, so people used to bring their gear, hop in the water, and explore.

As Cozumel's tourism grew, a few beachside spots popped up, and Money Bar became the go-to place to eat, drink, and snorkel without paying resort prices. Unlike big, all-inclusive clubs, it kept things simple and welcoming, with great food, cold drinks, and easy access to the reef.

Visiting Money Bar Beach Club Today

When to Visit Money Bar Beach Club

Money Bar Beach Club is open every morning until late evening, so you can drop by whenever works for you. But timing matters if you want the best experience.

For snorkeling and swimming, go in the morning or early afternoon when the water is calm and clear. The later it gets, the more people show up, and the wind can pick up, making the water a little choppier. Late afternoon is perfect if you're here to eat, drink, and relax. Grab a table, enjoy the ocean breeze, and stick around for sunset and live music (usually on weekends).

Crowds are bigger when cruise ships are in port, especially mid-morning to mid-afternoon. If you want a quieter vibe, go early or visit in the late afternoon when most cruise passengers return to their ships.

What You'll See When You Arrive at Money Bar Beach Club

When you arrive, you'll notice the open-air setup—plenty of seating, a spacious bar, and stunning ocean views. While there's no sandy beach, steps lead straight into the water. The rocky shoreline works in its favor, keeping the water crystal clear since no sand gets stirred.

If you're here for snorkeling, you'll see people entering immediately. The reef is just offshore, so you don't have to swim far to start catching fish and coral. Scuba divers also use the small dock nearby, so don't be surprised to see some gearing up. Are you not into water activities? No problem—grab a drink, find a table, and soak in the view.

The little extras make a difference. Free Wi-Fi means you can check in or share photos, there are clean restrooms and freshwater showers for rinsing off, and the staff is friendly without being pushy. If you stick around for sunset, the whole place takes on a new energy with live music on some nights and a front-row seat to one of the best sunset views on the island.

Staying Safe & Fitting In While Visiting Money Bar Beach Club

Safety Tips

• Watch Your Step: The shoreline is rocky, so water shoes will make getting in and out of the waterway easier.
• Keep an Eye on Your Stuff: It's a chill spot, but don't leave valuables anywhere. A waterproof pouch for cash and your phone is a smart move.
• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Regular sunscreen damages coral. Grab a reef-safe one to protect your skin and the ocean.
• Stay Hydrated: The sun is intense, and those cocktails are strong! Drink plenty of water between margaritas so you don't crash mid-afternoon.

Fitting In

• No Fancy Outfits Needed: Money Bar is super laid-back—swimsuits, cover-ups, and flip-flops are perfect. No one's dressing up here.
• Order Something If You Stay: There's no entry fee, but it's good beach club etiquette to grab a drink or food if you're hanging out for a while.
• Be Friendly & Relax: The staff is welcoming, and the crowd mixes locals and tourists. Knowing a little Spanish helps, but most people speak English widely.
• Respect the Reef: Don't touch or stand on the coral if you're snorkeling—it's fragile and protected. Plus, stepping on it could cut your feet.
• Tip Like You Mean It: Service is usually excellent, so a 15-20% tip is the norm. If you get fantastic service, a little extra goes a long way.

Cozumel Weather & Climate

Cozumel has warm, tropical weather year-round, so there's no bad time to visit Money Bar Beach Club. But depending on what you're looking for, some months are better than others.

The best weather is from November to April when temperatures are in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24–29°C) with low humidity and little rain. This is peak tourist season, so expect more crowds, especially when cruise ships are in town.

From May to October, temperatures are hotter and more humid, with temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s°F (29–34°C). Afternoon showers are common, but they usually don't last long. September and October are part of hurricane season, so while storms aren't guaranteed, it's something to remember.

The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) are great times to visit if you want fewer crowds and cheaper prices. No matter when you go, bring reef-safe sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be ready for intense sun.

Getting To & Around Money Bar Beach Club

Getting to Money Bar Beach Club

• By Taxi: The fastest and easiest option. From Puerta Maya to the International Pier, it's a 5-minute ride. From Punta Langosta, expect about 10 minutes. The fare is usually $10-$15 per cab (not per person). Cash is best, as some drivers don't take cards.
• By Rental Car or Scooter: If you're staying on the island, renting a car or scooter is a great way to explore. The drive to Money Bar is easy—follow the coastal road south. Free parking is available, but spots can fill up during peak hours.
• By Bike or Walking: If you're staying nearby, it's a scenic 15- to 20-minute walk along the ocean. Biking is even quicker, and some hotels offer bike rentals. Just watch out for traffic on the narrow coastal road.
• From Playa del Carmen: Take the Cozumel ferry (about 45 minutes), then grab a taxi from the ferry terminal—a 15-minute ride to Money Bar.

Getting Around Money Bar Beach Club

• No Need to Wander: Everything you need—food, drinks, snorkeling, and great views—is right there. Just grab a table, order a drink, and settle in.
• Getting in the Water: There's no sandy beach, but stairs and a slight dock lead straight into the water. Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet—the shoreline is rocky.
• Snorkeling is Easy: The Dzul-Ha Reef is right offshore. If you don't have gear, rent snorkels on-site for a small fee. The water is usually calm, but if it's windy, stay aware of currents.
• Bathrooms & Showers: Need to freshen up? There are clean restrooms, changing areas, and freshwater showers for guests.
• Getting Back: If you need a taxi, ask the staff—they'll call one for you. If you're on a cruise, leave at least 30-45 minutes before all-aboard time to avoid last-minute stress.

Our Favorite Tours & Excursions Near Money Bar Beach Club

Cozumel Zipline Adventure

The Cozumel Zipline Adventure is the way to go if you crave an adrenaline rush. You'll gear up and take on a series of ziplines that send you soaring over the jungle canopy with incredible views of the island. Some lines are long and fast, while others are perfect for first-timers. The guides ensure everything is safe and fun, so you're in good hands even if you've never done it. The whole experience takes about an hour, making it easy to fit into your day before returning to Money Bar Beach Club for beach time.

Atlantis Submarine Experience in Cozumel

Want to explore the ocean without getting wet? The Atlantis Submarine Experience takes you 100 feet below the surface in an honest, air-conditioned submarine. Through giant windows, you'll see coral reefs, tropical fish, and maybe even a sea turtle or two. It's an excellent option for families, non-swimmers, or anyone who wants a unique perspective on Cozumel's marine life. The tour lasts about two hours, including the boat ride out to the submarine. Since it's a popular excursion, booking in advance is a good idea, especially during cruise ship days when spots fill up fast.

Chankanaab Shore Excursion & Snorkeling

If snorkeling is your thing, Chankanaab Park is the perfect place to explore Cozumel's underwater world. Just a short drive from Money Bar Beach Club, this eco-park has some of the most transparent water on the island, with colorful coral reefs and tons of fish swimming just a few feet from shore. You can rent snorkel gear on-site or bring your own if you prefer. After snorkeling, the park has plenty of other things to do, like walking through the botanical gardens, checking out the Mayan replicas, or relaxing on the beach with a drink. It's a laid-back, all-in-one spot for an easy half-day trip.

Whether you want high-energy thrills, an underwater adventure, or a relaxing snorkel session, these tours near Money Bar Beach Club add something extra to your Cozumel getaway.

Money Bar Beach Club-FAQs 

What are the hours?

Money Bar Beach Club is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, so whether you're looking for a sunrise coffee, an afternoon snorkel, or sunset drinks with live music, you've got plenty of time to enjoy.

Do I have to pay to get in?

Nope! There's no entrance fee—order food or drinks, and you're good to go.

What's the vibe like?

Super relaxed. It's a mix of cruise passengers, vacationing families, and locals who come for the food, drinks, and snorkeling. The service is friendly, and you won't feel rushed.

Can I snorkel here?

Yes! Money Bar is right on Dzul-Ha Reef, one of the best spots in Cozumel to snorkel straight from shore. The water is calm and clear, and you'll see plenty of tropical fish. If you have your snorkel gear, bring it. If not, you can rent some on-site for a small fee.

Is it kid-friendly?

The beach club has a kids' menu, and the shallow waters are great for beginner snorkelers. Remember, there's no sandy beach; only steps lead into the water.

Is there a happy hour?

Yep! From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, you'll get 2-for-1 deals on beer, wine, and cocktails. It's the perfect time to catch the sunset with a drink.

Do they take credit cards?

Yes, they accept major credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash for tips and taxis, just in case.