Because the entire area is scattered with reefs, snorkeling is possible anywhere, even in the busier beach area near the pier. The water was for the most part calm and bath water warm. Its salinity made the water great for floating.
Dead center is the pier, where the ferry to Cozumel docks. North of the pier is a busy public beach area, and south is Playacar, much quieter with, in my opinion, better swimming but somewhat dull if you like people watching.
People watching here is perfect. Because of the strong European and South American presence here, topless sunbathing is pretty common. The young international flavor of the beach makes it special here, much more enjoyable than nearby Cancun.
There is little shelter from the sun along this beach, and conveniently, the beach front restaurants and clubs will rent you a chair or some shade for about $2.50 to $3 US for the day. Money well spent, in my opinion: the sun can be brutal, even in the cool winter and spring months.