Our journey to Cozumel is one we’re nonetheless eager about! The primary time I visited, I used to be simply 16 years outdated on a cruise with my household. For sure, coming again years later as an grownup, on a week-long journey with my companion, was a a lot completely different expertise!
We spent per week in Cozumel and have been pleasantly stunned at simply how a lot we have been capable of see in a brief time frame. Scuba diving, seashore lounging, visiting ruins, street tripping, consuming all the things in sight… Cozumel has one thing for everybody.
You may simply wish to sit back on the seashore, with a drink in hand, and I perceive utterly. However, after visiting right here, I like to recommend you permit the seashore behind and expertise the numerous different issues to do in Cozumel.
Cozumel is without doubt one of the high locations to go to in Mexico, so give your self a while right here.
I extremely advocate that you just plan a minimal of 5 days to see all of the issues to do in Cozumel, you could even wish to keep longer. With quite a few unimaginable issues to do in Mexico, be certain that Cozumel is in your checklist.
15 Greatest Issues To Do in Cozumel
Right here’s my checklist of our favorite issues to do in Cozumel for adults that you just don’t wish to miss!
1. Go to Punta Sur Ecological Park
Punta Sur Eco Seashore is the most effective seashore on the Island, and a go to to this eco-park is a should! This isn’t a “Disneyland” kind place, it’s a pure gem and the primary factor do to in Cozumel.
This space is positioned on the south of the island and covers an space of two,500 acres. There’s an entrance price ($25 USD for adults and $17 for kids), however in my view, it’s price it.
There are many issues to do contained in the park, listed below are a couple of of our high selections:
The Lighthouse
Throughout the Punta Sur Eco Park is the Celarain Lighthouse, which was constructed to warn sailors at night time of the risks of operating aground off the southern coast of Cozumel. The Lighthouse is now a part of a maritime museum.
For 360-degree views of the Island, you possibly can climb the 133 steps to the highest. On a transparent day, you possibly can even see the coast of Cuba, however sadly for us, that wasn’t the case. Entrance charges to the Punta Sur Eco Park embrace the Celerain Lighthouse.
Marshlands Boat Trip
A 40-minute tour of the Marshlands of Punta Sur Ecological Park can also be out there. They will’t assure that you will note any crocodiles on the day of the tour (we have been fortunate and noticed a pair!), however you will note many species of birds, particularly the roseate spoonbill.
These quick boat excursions are presently departing at 1:00 and a couple of:00 pm. Affirm the instances on the entrance to the park whenever you arrive.
Go to the Mayan Break
El Caracol spoil – additionally known as Tumba del Caracol due to its small dimension – dates again to 1200-1500 AD. Caracol means “snail” in Spanish and the ruins have been named this due to the snails that enhance the small dome on the highest of the temple.
The construction was constructed as an early hurricane warning system for the Mayan individuals. The roof was constructed in a means that the sturdy breeze gave a buzzing noise alerting the Mayans of the approaching hazard.
2. Non-public Jeep Tour With Lunch and Snorkelling
Top-of-the-line actions to do in Cozumel is a non-public Jeep Tour with lunch and the chance to go snorkelling. The tour comes with your personal non-public information which implies that he is aware of the best-secluded seashores to go snorkelling and swimming with out the crowds.
The perfect half about this Cozumel tour is that it’s utterly customizable. Let your information know forward of time what you’re enthusiastic about seeing in Cozumel and he’ll put collectively an itinerary to fit your wants!
Aside from non-public transportation, snorkelling, tequila tasting, Mexican lunch, and a cease at a seashore membership are included within the journey. For extra data click on right here.
3. Go Crusing
That is undoubtedly among the best issues to do in Cozumel! There are numerous issues to see across the island and hopping aboard a catamaran is one of the simplest ways to take action.
You may both loosen up on board having fun with drinks and snacks, or you possibly can snorkel the reef and take a look at the beautiful sea life. If you’re snorkelling you’ll have the possibility to identify some sea turtles, stingrays and possibly even a shark.
The waters round Cozumel are secure for swimming and snorkelling. Click on right here for an superior catamaran journey to El Cielo and the Cash Bar Seashore – which is tremendous inexpensive and consists of all drinks (margaritas as effectively!), and meals.
When you’re celebrating a special day, are travelling with a gaggle, or in case you simply need some luxurious in your life, you’ll wish to ebook this non-public catamaran journey which incorporates all meals and drinks, snorkel gear and extra.
You may reserve now and pay later, which is all the time a very good factor in case you’re not 100% certain of journey plans. Plus, you possibly can cancel as much as 24 hours earlier than departure. Be taught extra right here.
4. Go to The Mayan Ruins
Do you know that there are Mayan ruins on Cozumel?! To be trustworthy, we didn’t till our latest go to.
Situated on the northern a part of Cozumel, tucked away within the undeveloped jungle, you’ll discover the San Gervasio archaeological website (the pre-Hispanic identify was Tantun Cuzamil).
Positive, these ruins aren’t as giant or spectacular as Chichen Itza or Tulum ruins, however they’re fascinating in their very own means. This is without doubt one of the extra uncommon issues to do in Cozumel, and is a superb day journey.
We drove there in our rental automobile after which employed a information on the website – who actually introduced the place to life. Two entrance charges should be paid, however in complete, it’s round $10. The price of a information (in case you select) is round $20 for a 1.5-hour tour. Click on right here for instructions.
5. See the Cozumel Pearl Farm
A go to to the family-owned and operated Cozumel Pearl Farm is a novel tour the place you might be taken by boat to a secluded seashore on an uninhabited space of Cozumel.
The primary a part of the tour is an indication and clarification of pearl farming strategies. The second a part of the tour takes you to the pearl hatchery itself.
On the hatchery, you are able to do some snorkelling to see how the pearls are grown whereas studying concerning the reef system and viewing the underwater life-size Virgen de Guadalupe statue.
The remainder of your time is spent both swimming within the heat azure waters or lazing in one of many many hammocks, and naturally, having fun with your lunch with drinks that are included. Click on right here to be taught extra.
6. Try the Mayan Cacao Firm
Simply quarter-hour from downtown Cozumel is the Mayan Cacao Firm. Who doesn’t love chocolate?!
One of many many issues Mayans are recognized for is their manufacturing of chocolate from the beans of the cacao bushes. After the fermenting, drying and roasting course of, they floor the beans right into a paste, added scorching water and made the primary scorching chocolate drink.
The tour lasts for 70 minutes and also you get to pattern some chocolate as effectively. Click on right here to get you admission ticket.
When you’d slightly have a extra interactive expertise, be part of this enjoyable workshop! You’ll discover ways to make a home made chocolate bar with the genuine Mayan recipe…and, make a chocolate margarita (and drink it, after all). Each of those tickets are ebook now and pay later, with free cancellation as effectively.
⇒ See Additionally: 19 Enjoyable Issues To Do in Isla Mujeres – Mexico’s Island of Ladies
7. Go to the El Mirador
El Mirador is positioned on the east facet of the Island of Cozumel, half-hour from downtown. Rent a moped, lease a automobile or take a non-public taxi to get right here.
It’s a naturally stunning spot the place the ocean has carved an arch within the rocks over time. You may climb to the highest for beautiful views.
This is a superb place to keep away from crowds. When you’re trying to loosen up, a go to to El Mirador is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Cozumel. Discover it on the map, right here.
☞ For different pure rock formations surrounded by water, don’t miss Lands Finish, one of many high issues to do in Cabo San Lucas.
8. Swim and Snorkel at Playa Chen Rio
Cozumel has a few of the greatest seashores in Mexico, and Playa Chen Rio is one you received’t wish to miss. With its protected space and shallow water, this seashore is appropriate for all ranges of swimmers and snorkellers.
As an added bonus, Playa Chen Rio is positioned on the east coast, which is much less widespread than these seashores which can be positioned on the west coast – good if you wish to get away from the crowds.
Get pleasure from a day of swimming and snorkelling, adopted by lunch at one of many nice eating places on the seashore right here, reminiscent of El Pescador Marisqueria and Bar, or on the funky Coconuts bar.
Notice: despite the fact that this seashore is often tremendous, all the time be cautious when swimming on the east coast of Cozumel. The water might be fairly tough right here and undertows aren’t unusual. All the time ask the locals earlier than venturing in.
⇒ See Additionally: 21 Issues To Do in Guadalajara You Don’t Need To Miss
9. Chill Out at a Seashore Membership
There are numerous seashore golf equipment and bars positioned on the west coast. These seashores are calm and completely turquoise, whereas the seashore bars and golf equipment are the place you possibly can rent kayaks, laze on sunbeds or benefit from the seashore membership.
Among the golf equipment have entrance charges, reminiscent of Uvas Seashore Membership which is $20 together with services, snorkel gear and kayak, whereas the Cash Bar presents free chairs and umbrellas so long as you buy one thing.
I liked the Cash Bar! I spent the day right here a few instances whereas Nick was out scuba diving. They gave me free snorkel gear, and umbrella and chair. The meals and drinks have been actually good as effectively.
With Buccanos within the north, it’s $22 for the chairs and umbrella, however that quantity is subtracted out of your invoice. Some of the widespread seashore golf equipment is Mr. Sanchos which has an all-inclusive day go out there. You may ebook your spot right here.
☞ SEE ALSO: Manzanillo Colima – The Final Journey Information
10. Go to San Miguel, the Capital of Cozumel
Since San Miguel is positioned on the west coast, among the best actions right here is to stroll the broad sidewalk alongside the seafront at sundown. We did this nearly each night time throughout our keep in Cozumel, and liked watching the realm come to life as everybody got here out to benefit from the cooler temps.
Throughout the day when the cruise ships are in port, the sidewalk may be very busy with cruise passengers, however outdoors of that point, it’s pretty quiet.
In the midst of San Miguel is the Zocalo (a central park), each Mexican metropolis or city has a Zocalo. It’s a gathering place for locals or a spot to take a seat and simply people-watch.
If you’re in Cozumel on a Sunday night head to the Zocalo at round 8:00 pm for a lot of free occasions.
☞ In Mexico, you’ll discover quite a few seaside promenades with zocalos and free actions occurring. Don’t miss wandering alongside the Malecon and seeing road performers, these are a few of the greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta, La Paz and lots of different Mexican cities.
⇒ See Additionally: 21 Superior Issues To Do in Oaxaca Metropolis
11. Scuba Diving (one of the crucial widespread issues to do in Cozumel)
Scuba Diving alongside the Mesoamerican Reef is second to none. If you’re a complicated scuba diver like Nick is, you’ve the choice to dive at superior websites in Cozumel like Maracaibo, Satan’s Throat, Cathedral or Barracuda.
Cozumel is thought for its unimaginable snorkelling and scuba diving, so ensure you bounce within the water throughout your journey!
We spent per week scuba diving in Cozumel and did a complete of 12 dives with Scuba Tony, and I did some snorkelling with them as effectively. The captains and dive guides have been all very skilled and welcoming, and the dive boat and gear have been in nice form.
I’m fairly hardcore on the subject of water security, and I felt completely comfy with Scuba Tony (each the crew and the boat itself).
You may both meet at their location within the marina or, in case you’re staying within the south, the dive boat will choose you up immediately out of your resort’s jetty – how cool is that?!
Whether or not you’re open water, superior or simply studying dive, you’ll be impressed with the underwater world. Regardless of your expertise stage, you’ll love recognizing turtles, rays, eels, lobster, fish and naturally, vibrant coral.
Night time diving can also be widespread and is a novel solution to expertise the critters – count on to identify octopus, sharks, eels and extra. Diving in Cozumel is widespread, for good motive. Be taught extra about Scuba Tony right here.
⇒ See Additionally: 21 Prime Issues To Do in San Miguel de Allende
12. Eat Mexican Meals
Mexican delicacies is our favorite. Consuming road meals is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Mexico Metropolis, however in case you’re not heading to the capital, you’ll nonetheless be spoiled for selection in Cozumel.
Suppose burritos, tacos, tortas, ceviche, enchiladas, churros and naturally drinks reminiscent of tequila, mezcal, margaritas and a calming Corona with a slice of lime.
A few of our favorite Cozumel eating places are:
- Guisados for improbable tacos – Av Lic Benito Juárez 254, Centro
- Loopy King Burrito …for, you guessed it, burritos – Calle 4 Norte 5 in Centro San Miguel
- Mister Taco – Avenue Benito Juarez and sixtieth
- La Monina – tasty meals with epic sundown views
13. Be a part of a Meals Tour
When you take pleasure in meals excursions as a lot as we do, Cozumel Chef Meals Tour is the one for you. The tour takes you to a number of completely different eating places the place you take pleasure in a Mexican dish and an area drink.
The locations you’ll go to are off the standard vacationer path, that means you’ll be consuming like an area. Even vegetarians are effectively catered for throughout this tour.
This is without doubt one of the high Cozumel excursions in case you take pleasure in genuine Mexican meals. Ensure that to come back hungry! For extra data and reserving, click on right here.
⇒ See Additionally: 10 Issues To See and Do in Guanajuato
14. Deep-Sea Fishing
For deep sea fishing fans, Cozumel is the proper location and one of many high corporations (Seashore Bum Cozumel) presents an superior expertise. Even in case you’re not a hardcore fisherman, that is nonetheless among the best issues to do in Cozumel.
Nick did some deep sea fishing for sailfish throughout our journey to Manzanillo, however he didn’t get an opportunity in Cozumel.
Barracuda, mahi mahi and triggerfish are a few of the native catch round Cozumel. You may catch tuna all yr spherical, and from March to July white and blue marlin and sailfish can be found. You may reserve the boat now, and pay later. For extra data and constitution bookings click on right here.
⇒ See Additionally: 21 Issues To Do in Mazatlan, Mexico
15. Watch Sundown
On the finish of the day, nothing beats a very good sundown with a cocktail in hand. We advocate testing Hemingway, El Palomar Restaurant and Bar and La Monina on the west facet of the island. These are all wonderful locations that we frequented throughout our journey to Cozumel.
If sitting at a restaurant isn’t your factor, you possibly can all the time watch the sundown from the malecon, a jetty or the seashore…the most effective free Cozumel exercise for certain.
Extra Enjoyable Cozumel Actions
There are such a lot of extra enjoyable issues to do in Cozumel, that I had so as to add some extra to the checklist.
Go Sea Scootering
When you’ve by no means heard of a sea scooter, you want to take a look at this tour. Discover sunken ships and the attractive Caribbean Sea, whereas an underwater scooter does all the “swimming” for you. Afterwards, take pleasure in a market and an area Mexican lunch. Discover out extra about this enjoyable day journey in Cozumel right here.
Snorkelling at Night time to Spot Octopus
After getting briefed by your information, you’ll put in your snorkel gear, flip in your gentle and hit the ocean. You received’t be going by boat, simply merely strolling into the water from the shore.
Be a part of this extremely rated, 4 hour+ snorkelling journey, and spot octopus, turtles, squid, and extra within the wild. That is an expertise you received’t overlook and is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Cozumel at night time. Be taught extra right here.
Be a part of a Cooking Class
When you’re in search of issues to do in Cozumel for foodies, try this enjoyable cooking expertise. Begin the journey by visiting an area market and studying concerning the typical meals of Mexico. Then, head to a household house and discover ways to make genuine Mexican dishes…and naturally, eat them! You’ll make dips, foremost dishes, snacks and drinks are included as effectively. Discover out extra right here.
The place is Cozumel?
The Island of Cozumel or “Isla Cozumel” because it’s recognized in Spanish is positioned 12 miles off the coast reverse Playa del Carmen within the Yucatan Peninsula. Cancun, often known as “Mexico’s high get together vacation spot” is 45 miles to the north of Cozumel.
We have been staying in Playa del Carmen after we determined to move over to Cozumel – the quieter various to Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Really, among the best issues to do in Playa del Carmen is to take a ferry throughout to tranquil Cozumel.
Easy methods to Get to Cozumel
When you’re coming from Playa del Carmen (like we have been), the terminal is positioned downtown close to the primary sq. – click on right here for instructions on Google Maps. In simply 30 – 45 minutes, you’ll cross the ocean and arrive in Cozumel. Click on right here for the Cozumel Ferry schedule, which incorporates prices.
Ultramar Ferry runs on “odd” days, whereas the Winjet Ferry runs on “even” days of the week. The most recent instances might be discovered on their respective Fb accounts. Having skilled each, I can say that the Ultramar ferry to Cozumel was nicer, sooner and had extra facilities on board.
Whereas there are direct flights to Cozumel, most individuals will arrive on the Cancun airport. From there, you’ve a couple of choices to get to the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen (to take the boat over to Cozumel).
You may both take the bus, rent a taxi, or go for a non-public shuttle from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. That is the quickest, most secure and most snug to get to the Cozumel ferry. Click on right here for particulars about airport transfers.
Notice: in case you’re on a price range and don’t thoughts sharing, there’s a fast, secure and simple $25 shuttle you possibly can take from the Cancun airport to the ferry port in Playa del Carmen. Be taught extra right here.
When is The Greatest Time to Go to Cozumel?
You may go to Mexico year-round, however the most effective time to go to Cozumel is through the months from March to June, earlier than the hurricane season begins.
The most well liked months are July and August which coincides with the hurricane season that lasts till November. Winter is Cozumel’s busiest interval and it runs from December via to March.
We visited Cozumel on the finish of April, into Might, and had stunning climate – and it was much less crowded.
The place To Keep in Cozumel
Cozumel is a comparatively small island, so you possibly can keep just about anyplace after which simply get round by automobile or golf cart. Having stated that, for seashore lovers, you’ll wish to keep on the west coast because the east is rugged and windy.
When you plan to do plenty of diving, you may wish to keep at a spot that has its personal pier. Listed below are a couple of of my suggestions for the most effective lodging in Cozumel. For extra, be sure you try our The place To Keep in Cozumel Information.
Stingray Villa: We spent 5 nights on this stunning little 4-room boutique villa resort that’s just some quick blocks from the ocean. The rooms have cool painted interiors and all of them face in the direction of a stunning and quiet shared pool. If this one is booked, or isn’t your type, one other extremely rated possibility is Villas El Encanto.
Landmark Resort: We stayed right here the final time we have been in Cozumel and liked it. In reality, we might see ourselves spending weeks and even months on this fantastically embellished, spacious house advanced with sea views. Extremely beneficial. As a bonus, the Cash Bar Seashore Membership and scuba diving pier was proper right here!
The Westin: A cool resort on the north finish of Cozumel that has its personal non-public seashore space, an out of doors pool, an onsite restaurant and a few free facilities like snorkel gear.
Greatest Eating places in Cozumel
Cozumel is a food-lovers paradise. We ate at plenty of completely different native and worldwide eating places throughout our keep there. After all, many menus function seafood, however there are many different nice dishes together with Mexican delicacies, steaks, burgers and pasta.
Listed below are a few of our favorite eating places on the island of Cozumel.
Buccanos: We love this little restaurant/bar on the seashore. There’s a wonderful sundown view, good meals and attractive cocktails.
La Monina: One among our favorite little Mexican eating places on the seashore in Cozumel. Be sure you strive the seafood right here.
Lobster Shack: This was the primary meal Nick ate on our final go to to Cozumel. These lobster rolls are the most effective we’ve had since our time in Nova Scotia.
Sereno Cozumel: Most likely the most effective view from a restaurant on the island, Sereno additionally has nice meals and pleasant service.
The Espresso Cozumel: A superb cafe in Cozumel. The espresso is tasty and so are the breakfasts.
The Maple Bakehouse: One other nice breakfast place.
Azul Madera: A extra upscale spot with wonderful meals – get the surf and turf!
Cozumel Journey Itineraries
As I’ve stated earlier than, Cozumel is a small island so most individuals will both go to for a couple of days or per week. We spent per week and will’ve stayed longer! Under I’ve included some steered itineraries for these time frames.
3 Days in Cozumel
On day one, get up and head to The Espresso Cozumel for a morning brew and breakfast, then head to Punta Sur to spend the day recognizing crocs, having fun with the view, and going for a swim. That’ll take a lot of the day, however you might need time to take a look at the Mayan Ruins within the afternoon earlier than heading to a seashore bar for sundown.
On day 2 begin your day with a deliciously candy breakfast at The Maple Bakehouse. Then you possibly can both head out on a day journey snorkelling tour, or go for a few dives in case you’re into diving.
When you make it again in time for lunch, hit up Sereno for some tasty tacos. Then spend the afternoon at a seashore bar earlier than going to El Mirador within the afternoon for sundown. Finish the day at Buccanos for a later afternoon cocktail and dinner.
On the final day, get up and go to whichever place you appreciated extra between The Maple Bakehouse and The Espresso Cozumel for some espresso and breakfast. Then both be part of a non-public jeep tour. This can take a lot of the day and embrace lunch, so within the afternoon whenever you’re completed, take into account visiting the Cacao Firm.
Get pleasure from dinner at La Monina or head to the Lobster Shack for a fast roll, then head to El Palomar Restaurant and Bar for sundown cocktails and in case you’re fortunate, some reside music.
One Week in Cozumel
For the primary 3 days, do all the actions from the 3-day Cozumel itinerary above. On day 4, go to a Seashore Membership for the day. End the day without work with sundown in San Miguel and dinner at Azul Madera.
On day 5 get up early and go deep-sea fishing. That may take a lot of the day and can embrace lunch, whenever you’re completed, relaxation for a bit earlier than heading out for dinner at any of the eating places with a sundown view.
Day 6 can begin with a espresso and a pastry at your resort, earlier than visiting San Miguel, the capital of Cozumel. For lunch, eat at native Mexican eating places within the capital, earlier than visiting the Cozumel Pearl Farm within the afternoon. At night time head to Monkey Seashore Membership for some enjoyable music and meals.
On the final day, get up and have a fast snack for breakfast earlier than assembly for the Cozumel Chef Meals Tour at 11am. This can carry you thru lunch to the late afternoon. Right now, simply head to a seashore membership and revel in your final day on the sand, swimming and snorkelling. I like to recommend Sky Reef or Mr. Sanchos.
Cozumel Journey FAQs
Cozumel may be very secure. It’s a small island the place everybody is aware of everybody. There’s little or no crime on the island and you can be secure travelling to just about each nook. Simply watch out in case you consider swimming on the east coast because it’s very wavy and harmful there!
When you can technically go to Cozumel yr spherical, the most effective time to go to is between November and March. These months are out of the hurricane season, have plenty of sunny days and are pleasantly cool.
Cozumel is fairly laid again, so don’t count on a loopy nightlife scene right here. Having stated that, Woody’s, Moist Wendys, La Rumba and The Cash Bar are fairly cool locations to have some drinks and dance into the wee hours.
Completely. There are many issues to do in Cozumel for kids together with snorkelling, having fun with the calm water of the seashores, heading to nature reserves and moving into submarines.
Deliver plenty of sunscreens, bathing fits and a few snorkel gear. Additionally, don’t overlook a hat and a cover-up because the solar right here might be intense even whenever you’re sporting sunblock. Most different belongings you may want will also be purchased on the island whenever you arrive.
Usually, Mexico is a tourism tradition the place Individuals and Canadians have introduced their tipping customs to main vacationer locations like Cozumel. In eating places, 10-15% is just about anticipated. Cleansing employees would recognize $2-$3 per day at your resort and taxis / tour guides will count on a ten% tip more often than not.
Cozumel is a simple place to drive. You may lease a automobile, or get a golf cart. Each are enjoyable and simple methods to get round. Simply pay attention to one-way streets and slender seashore roads.
Conclusion
Cozumel is a real island paradise. It’s laid again identical to the locals and presents a quieter environment than its coastal neighbours. We liked our journey to Cozumel – each above and beneath the water!
Cozumel is an island that may wake you up with dawn on the jap facet, whereas simply 10 miles throughout the island, you possibly can take pleasure in a sundowner on the west coast. There are quite a few enjoyable issues to do in Cozumel and we hope this checklist gave you some good concepts of the place to begin.
