Cozumel is the third-largest island in Mexico, located on the Caribbean coast of the Quintana Roo state, inside the Riviera Maya area. Spanning 47 kilometers in length, 15 kilometers in width, and approximately 647.33 km2 (249.94 sq mi) in the vicinity, it ranks among Mexico's most significant and most populated islands.
Recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, Cozumel is celebrated as one of the world's optimum diving destinations. Its paradise-like surroundings attract a multitude of travelers, with a constant inflow of cruise ships, making it one of the most visited places by travelers.
Here you could locate the entirety: from pricey lodges to seashore clubs for a day of rest, pristine seashores for exploration, to jungle adventures.
Cozumel Map
| Name | Cozumel |
| Country | Mexico |
| State | Quintana Roo |
| Coordinates | 20°25′N 86°55′W |
| Area | 154.5/km2 (400.2/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC−5 |
| Population | 88,626 |
| Airport | Cozumel International Airport (CZM) |
| Dock | Carnival Dock |
History of Cozumel
Cozumel, known as Cuzamil ("Swallow Island") by the Maya people, became an independent Maya political entity with its chieftain and the contemporary "San Gervasio" as its middle of rule earlier than the advent of the Spanish. Its essential sports have been agriculture, and everyday lifestyles become well-organized.
Cozumel turned into a sacred place wherein humans worshiped the goddess "Ixchel." Its residents welcomed visitors to their beaches in a peaceful way, as exemplified by figures like Juan de Grijalva, Hernán Cortés, Alonso de Parada, Panfilo de Narvaez, and Francisco de Montejo.
Historical events formed the destiny of the island, along with the Caste War of Yucatán (1847-1900), for the duration of which Cozumel's population extensively decreased. However, it became a super area for refugee groups settling in their unique places.
During the Caste War of Yucatán, Cozumel came to begin below the jurisdiction of the Tizimín party, but being far-flung and forgotten, it had no constant populace. Therefore, the Yucatán government sought to cede it to Spain. In 1848, as a part of the exchange, they requested the Spanish for assistance in quelling what they termed as the Indian rebellion.
On November 21, 1849, the State Council built "San Miguel" on Cozumel Island, the primary network in Quintana Roo, and it was turning into its number one financial source and the first port to get hold of tourism.
In 1960, Cozumel welcomed its first cruise ship ride.
Best Things to Do in Cozumel
Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
Punta Sur, located at the southern cease of Cozumel, Mexico, is a 1,000-hectare nature reserve providing white sand beaches, lakes, and palm trees. It is Cozumel's biggest ecological reserve and serves as a habitat for several amphibians, reptiles, exotic birds, and mammals.
The park's highlight is its crocodile, which traffic can look at from viewing structures or at some point during guided boat tours (blanketed inside the price tag charge). Cozumel's herbal and subject parks provide a wealth of enjoyment for each youngster and adult, which include sports like ziplining, off-road use, beach rest, and interactive studies delving into the Maya subculture.
For those searching for journey and adrenaline, Punta Sur and Cozumel's surrounding regions provide possibilities for trekking, mountain biking, and horseback riding amidst the island's lush jungles, marshes, and seashores, allowing site visitors to absolutely immerse themselves in nature.
How to visit Punta Sur in Cozumel:
- Ticket Prices: The entrance fee is $19 for adults and $13 for children aged 4 to 12 years old.
- Opening Hours: Punta Sur is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.
It's recommended to take a jeep tour to Punta Sur, where you can explore the Celarain Lighthouse and El Caracol Mayan Ruins. Enjoy lunch at the beach club, which typically includes water and beer. You can also go snorkeling and relax on the beach during your free time.
Book your tour here:
Chankanaab
Chankanaab Park is a primary traveler enchantment and an excellent place for families to enjoy nature and the seaside. Here are some sports you can enjoy at Chankanaab:
- Relaxing on white sandy beaches under palm tree coloration
- Admiring the crystal-clean waters of Chankanaab Lagoon, home to 60 species of tropical fish and coral
- Snorkeling in one of the area's most lovely coral reefs, with underwater sculptures just like the Virgin Mary and Christ
- Exploring replicas of 60 Maya, Aztec, and Toltec ruins, such as El Caracol at Punta Sur
- Taking a stroll through a botanical garden featuring 350 species of tropical flora
- Trying one of the three high-flying zip strains
- Enjoying kayaking and paddle surfing
To visit Chankanaab Park:
- It is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.
- The value of a taxi from the town center to Chankanaab is around 300 pesos.
- I advocate a ticket that consists of getting entry to the whole park and a scuba diving course led by licensed instructors to discover Cozumel's stunning underwater international.
You can purchase tickets to Chankanaab Park here:
Scuba Diving
Cozumel is indeed one of the world's first-rate scuba diving and snorkeling locations, and it's a should-visit for all people coming here!
Cozumel Reef National Park, overlaying the southern part of Cozumel, is a part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-longest coral reef in the world. It boasts stunning biodiversity (consisting of sea turtles, 26 coral species, and 300 fish species!) and excellent visibility in its waters.
Several famed diving spots on the island cater to diverse ability ranges: Punta Tunich, Chankanaab, Palancar Reef, Columbia, Paraíso, Santa Rosa, Devil's Throat, and the Felipe Xicoténcatl shipwreck.
For secure diving in Cozumel, I advise a 2-hour tour that takes you to a few coral reefs. You can swim or live on the boat to enjoy the surroundings and feature beverages. This tour is best for beginners and families.
You can book it right here:
Enjoy the most beautiful beaches
Cozumel Island is certainly renowned as a vital diving vacation spot. However, its lovely seashores also ought to be tourist attractions. Here are some locations in which you could experience proper white sand paradises:
- Playa San Francisco: Ideal for families, offering kayak, paddleboard, jet ski leases, snorkeling equipment, and water video games at the seaside membership.
- Playa Palancar: One of Cozumel's most pristine seashores with a free-access seashore membership. It's best for vacationers due to its lovely waters and proximity to Palancar and Columbia reefs.
- Playa Encantada: If you pick quiet seashores, that is the region to be! With golden sands and calm waters, it is located near the southern part of the island, near Punta Celarain Lighthouse and El Caracol archaeological site.
4. Isla de la Pasión: A personal island most effective 2 kilometers lengthy, offering mangroves, stunning coral reefs, and long white sandy seashores. You can reach it by boat (15 minutes from Cozumel), and it's recommended that you get early to experience all the facilities.
- Chen Rio: This seashore boasts lush flowers, a clear herbal swimming pool, and an outstanding seafood restaurant.
Venturing into the jungle
If you're into adrenaline-pumping adventures, you could force off-avenue vehicles to explore any other aspect of Cozumel, navigating narrow jungle paths!
The day's sports include tequila tasting, touring Maya villages, exploring caves, and swimming in natural cenotes with beautiful stalactites.
You can book the jungle tour here:
Dinner cruise and pirate show
The Cozumel pirate dinner cruise offers a beautiful revel aboard a replica of a 17th-century tall ship, immersing you in an authentic pirate atmosphere. As you sail through the Caribbean Sea, you'll experience fascinating pirate tales, exciting sword fights, and interactive games.
The dinner onboard is a feast, proposing cuisines like lobster and steak, observed by an open bar serving a lot of liquids. The lively environment with music and dancing makes your experience unforgettable.
For those who appreciate high-quality beverages, there's additionally a luxurious open bar with top-rate brands available onboard.
San Gervasio
San Gervasio is the principal archaeological site in Cozumel, Mexico.
It is associated with the Mayan tradition and is committed to the fertility goddess Ixchel. It holds tremendous significance, similar to Jerusalem for the Mayans, and serves as a pilgrimage site online to honor Ixchel.
Additionally, it has historical significance as an industrial and political center.
Today, site visitors can discover numerous homes, systems, plazas, and temples in San Gervasio from the 7th to the 17th century.
- Open Monday to Sunday from 9 AM to 3 PM
- Admission is 188 pesos / $10.50, children under 3 years old are free.
Cozumel Museum
The Cozumel Museum is a small museum that is targeted at Cozumel's history, lifestyle, and surroundings.
It has temporary exhibitions curated by the neighborhood and worldwide artists, including a room dedicated to Cozumel's carnival.
Visitors can also discover a souvenir shop with less expensive jewelry and experience perspectives of the sea and boats from the museum's restaurant on the second floor.
- The museum is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 10 AM to 2 PM and from 4 PM to 8 PM.
- Admission is $11, and children under three years old are totally free.
- Interpretation offerings are to be had in English and Spanish.
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park
You cannot omit this seashore water park! Spend half a day or a complete day right here because, besides the pool bar, seashore, and restaurants, there are plenty of factors to do.
The facilities consist of a pirate-themed shallow pool, slides, a water park, kayaking, a catamaran, and water motorbike rentals.
There's even a reproduction of a Maya-shaped submerged five meters deep that you could see at the same time as snorkeling.
There are also ping pong tables, volleyball courts, and a soccer discipline.
Pueblo Del Maíz
Pueblo Del Maíz is a former Spanish topic park showcasing the Maya way of life, records, and traditions.
For children, I can assure you they may enjoy this go-to because it's rich in facts and exceptionally interactive.
You'll discover the Maya world, their dances and musical rituals, and the importance of different products like maize, cocoa, and henequen (a type of agave from the Yucatan Peninsula).
You may additionally witness conventional Mesoamerican ball games.
Board Submarine
This is one of the exceptional activities in Cozumel to enjoy with kids: taking a submarine dive to depths of 30 meters!
The Atlantis XII will take you to discover the Chankanaab Reef, which is a part of the sector's second-largest coral reef device.
Through the home windows, you may admire a plethora of colorful fish, rays, sea turtles, corals, and the Felipe Xicotencatl shipwreck, all accompanied via English and Spanish narration.
It's an enjoyable activity for young kids and older kids who need to explore the underwater world without diving too deep.
Don't worry. The submarine receives annual certification from the American Bureau of Shipping and is operated by professional crew members who maintain continuous contact with the surface.
I propose booking in advance as spots are confined. You can book it here:
El planetario Cha’an Ka’an
The call "Cha'an Ka'an" means "watching the sky," which is precisely what this 360° immersive show offers.
It provides diverse cosmic concepts and Maya worldviews. There's additionally an interactive vicinity, unique sports for kids, and an eating place.
Moreover, it's appropriately next to the ferry, so it's a fun area to forestall by at the same time as expecting the ferry to leave.
Tickets are 157 pesos, with youngsters aged 4 to 12 at 131 pesos.
The 3D display is appropriate for youngsters aged 6 and above and is provided in English and Spanish.
You can find more records about the planetarium on their site.
Cozumel's Hotels and Resorts
Villas El Encanto Cozumel: For greater consolation, this resort offers flats and bungalows with air-con, a small kitchen, and a terrace. Beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, hammocks, and front room chairs are also advised—excellent quality and reasonable price, starting at $106 per night.
Allegro Cozumel All-Inclusive: This is a family-friendly, all-inclusive resort that is ideal for households. Situated by the seaside, it offers quite a few activities (seaside volleyball, yoga, diving, kayaking, and so forth.), a playground, a children's membership, and three swimming pools, one with a slide. Rates start at $218 per night, all-inclusive.
Iberostar Cozumel - All Inclusive: This all-inclusive resort is located just 20 kilometers from the international airport. It has a diving center and boats to help you explore the world's second-largest coral reef. The hotel also recommends healthy, delicious, and natural diets based on local and seasonal products. You can enjoy billiards, table tennis, and darts at this five-star resort, and car rentals are available. Starting at $225 per night, all-inclusive.
Meliá Cozumel All Inclusive: This serene, all-inclusive resort has a stunning personal beach, spacious rooms, a full-carrier spa, and swimming pools consisting of an adults-best pool with a bar. I suggest the sea-view rooms, beginning at $330 per night, all-inclusive!
How to Get to Cozumel
Cozumel has its international airport, making it readily available, especially from Canada and America, with common connecting flights. You can also attain Cozumel from Cancun International Airport, which is an hour's drive from Playa del Carmen.
Several ferry routes from Playa del Carmen could take us to Cozumel in about 30 or 45 minutes, with the last one being San Miguel de Cozumel.
Transportation in Cozumel
You can rent a car or a scooter for an island tour, which is excellent for exploring the island and stopping for meals and swims.
Along the roads of Cozumel's coastline, there's a second lane explicitly designated for bicycles and motorcycles, enhancing safety during travels.
A Cruise to Cozumel
The beauty of Cozumel Island and its underwater coral reefs has led to an increase in the number of cruise ships docking at this small port in recent years. One of the most common activities in Cozumel and Riviera Maya is the numerous short trips available on the island, including scuba diving and beach visits.
For more information on cruise tours and activities: https://www.cozumelcruisetours.com/cozumel-cruise-schedule
Some Tips for Visiting Cozumel
- Avoid sporting an extensive amount of money or treasured items.
- Never leave your bag unattended, and refrain from taking walks at the beach at night time. Bring your snorkeling gear: renting prices around $5 (90 pesos) on every occasion.
- Beach clubs like Sky Reef and Palancar don't require entry costs or minimum spending.
- Opt for budget-friendly alternatives: strive for inexpensive restaurants, which include La Pacifica (open at 3 PM), Fondita Don José, Crazy King Burrito, or Cozumel Market. Steer clear of eating places near the pier as they tend to be pricier.
- Look for a reasonably-priced bar: Money Bar has an ocean-view terrace, no minimal spend. Alternatively, clutch a few beers and head to the general public beach subsequent to the bar.
- Prices in Cozumel are usually quoted in USD and pesos. Keep in mind that if you pay in USD, you can not get a good price change.
Cozumel's Weather
Cozumel reports a wet summertime and a dry iciness, with a median annual temperature above 18°C. It is surrounded by warm seawater from the Caribbean Sea or the Gulf of Mexico, along with currents from the Yucatán Channel, which predominantly affect the north and northwest.
Being situated on a peninsula, Cozumel has enough cloud cover throughout the summer to deposit significant rainfall. Additionally, it frequently encounters tropical waves that shape wind belts, basically inflicting heavy rains in the summertime.
Monthly temperatures tend to stay stable with minimal variations. The coldest month is January, with a median temperature of 22.9°C (73.2°F). Due to its proximity to the sea, the island is pretty humid, with an average humidity of 83%.
