Planning to visit one of Mexico’s top islands? Cozumel is the most favored destination for tourists because of it’s swaying palm trees, beautiful white sand beaches, spectacular coral reefs, and of course, the azure blue ocean.

The island is also known for its fantastic snorkeling and diving sites, Mayan ruins, and delicious local delicacies.

With so many Instagram-worthy places to see in Cozumel, here’s our guide on some of the most exciting things to do in Mexico’s famous island.

Location And How To Get There

Cozumel is located just twelve miles away from the coast of Southern Yucatan Peninsula, a place equally as beautiful and famous for its beaches and scenery, and on the north of Cozumel, just 45 miles away, lies Cancun, Mexico’s famous party destination.

Although Cozumel is part of Mexico, it is technically a Caribbean island. As such, it enjoys the warm, beautiful water and weather, the Caribbean sea has to offer.

Cozumel

Stretching just fifty kilometers long, Cozumel is well connected and being the most favored tourist destinations; it’s transportation infrastructure is well maintained, efficient, and popularly used. The easiest and fastest way to arrive in Cozumel is by flight.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, where the terminal is near the main square. From there, it takes just 45 minutes to reach Cozumel.

To reach the city, you can take a private transport from Cancun. Though it’s a much longer route, the flights to Cancun are significantly lower here.

When To Visit Cozumel?

Cozumel is a subtropical region, and hence its visitors enjoy an all-around sunny and warm weather. The island is at its best from March to June, after that the hurricane season starts from July and lasts till November.

From December to March, Cozumel experiences winter, and it is also the busiest period.

Diving And Snorkeling

Cozumel is best known for its diving and snorkeling sites. The island is a paradise for beach lovers, divers, and snorkelers. It is also surrounded by beautiful coral reefs while offering its visitors a diverse marine life.

Cozumel, Mexico Snorkeling

A less popular beach lies on the east coast and is perfect for those who want to snorkel in a less crowded area, Playa Chen Rio has shallow waters and is a protected area, making it a suitable site for first-timers and experienced snorkelers alike.

Also, Mesoamerican Reef is another great site for scuba diving. If you’re an experienced scuba diver, you can visit incredible sites like Devil’s Throat, Maracaibo, Cathedral, or Barracuda.

Cozumel Snorkeling

Don’t worry if you’re new to scuba diving as there are numerous other sites for beginners. You can even find PADI courses in Cozumel.

Beaches

The beaches in Cozumel are essentially paradise, especially the ones on the west coastline since the shoreline and the bays are surrounded and protected by the island’s natural geography.

Playa Chen Rio, Cozumel

Just opposite to Playa Chen Rio, and on the western coastline lies the beautiful Playa Uva Sur beach that offers an upmarket experience. You can relax on sunbeds, hire kayaks, or have fun at the Beach Club for $15.

The $15 package includes snorkel gear, a welcome drink, the fees for the marine park, snorkel tour, kayaking. You’ll also be able to use the hammocks, wifi, umbrellas, chairs, and the bar/restaurant.

Mayan Ruins

For centuries, Cozumel was inhabited by Mayans until the European colonization. Abandoned and overgrown, Cozumel has some impressive ruins for visitors to explore.

Tulum Ruins

Ruins of Tulum, Chichen Itza, and San Gervasio ruins are some of the places you might want to note.

Chankanaab Beach Park

It takes just 10 minutes to reach Chankanaab Beach Park from the Cruise Port. Chankanaab means “small sea” in Mayan.

Chankanaab National Park, Cozumel, Mexico

Just like its name, it is a small beach park which is home to a few iguanas, underground cenotes and you can even experience an array of incredible underwater statues.

The beach is also perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining and you can even swim with the dolphins.

Do keep in mind that the park is only open from Monday to Saturday where you can visit from 8 am till 4 pm. The entry fee for adults costs $21/ person, and for children below 11 years, it’s $14.

Chef Food Tour in Cozumel

If you’re a foodie, then the Chef’s Food Tour is exactly what you need. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to try some fine local Mexican delicacies and drinks at various Cozumel restaurants.

The tour will take you places that will make sure you get the true taste of Cozumel whether a vegetarian or non-vegetarian, this tour has everything for everyone.

Temazcal Cozumel

In Cozumel, you can experience a traditional Mayan ceremony, where you’ll enter a brick hut. The volcanic rocks warm the hut, and the experience is similar to a sauna.

Temazcal

During the ritual, your body will go through a series of relaxation, cleansing, and purification. Finally, the ceremony ends with a cool swim in the cenote.

This is the most unique and spiritual experience Cozumel has to offer, and it’s something you don’t want to miss.

San Miguel

San Miguel is the capital of Cozumel and is located on the western coastline. In the evening, take a walk by the seafront on the broad sidewalk.

San Miguel Church

The sidewalk is usually busy during the day when the ports are occupied by cruise ships but other than that its normally quiet.

San Miguel Clock Tower

Alternatively, you can visit Zocalo, which is a central park located at the center of the capital.

Conclusion

Cozumel is truly an incredible island paradise. Enjoy the beautiful sunset, walk along the broad sidewalks, experience the traditional Mayan culture, visit the ancient archaeological sites and of course, the mouth-watering local cuisines.

There are numerous exciting activities Cozumel has in store for you, and we hope this guide will give you an idea of where to start.

Also, we highly suggest you spend at least a week if you want to really experience the beauty of this popular Mexican island.

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