Cozumel is the largest inhabited island in Mexico, which lies just off the mainland. The coasts are known for large, breaking surf on the east side, and calmer waters for diving on the west side. In 1959, Jacques Cousteau discovered the beauty of Palancar, the coral reefs at the south of Cozumel and publicized it as one of the best places to go scuba diving in the world. Diving is still Cozumel's primary draw, mainly due to the healthy coral reef marine communities.