Cozumel Visitors Guide
How to Get There, Things to Do & More
Updated October 2023
Welcome to Cozumel Mexico
What was once a secluded island hideaway, has now become one of the most recognized tropical locales in Mexico’s majestic Caribbean region. This is Isla Cozumel.
Boasting white sand beaches, coral reefs, modern amenities and an enormous swath of wild areas, it is an island paradise in every sense of the term. With countless activities both below and above the waves, your Cozumel visit is sure to be one you brag about for years to come.
Cozumel Map
Contents
A Bit Of History
A glistening tropical paradise off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, the island of Cozumel was once a bustling Mayan community with as many as 10,000 local residents.
Sacred to the Mayan Moon Goddess, Ix Chel, the island and its temples were an important place of pilgrimage for women seeking fertility. The remnants of that once thriving civilization can still be seen today in the small ruins of San Gervasio in the island’s forested interior.
Cozumel Today
Flash forward 2,000 years, and today Cozumel is an exciting tourist destination that holds a special place in our hearts.
With two very different sides to the beautiful island, one can access all the modern amenities around its main town of San Miguel, and yet still find numerous places on the far side of the island to get away from it all.
Is Cozumel Safe?
Cozumel has a very low crime rate and is considered a very safe area to travel to, especially compared to other parts of Mexico.
Within the highly touristic regions of the island, the crime rate is close to 0%, making the island non-threatening to travelers. There is a strong police presence on the island, as well as friendly locals who keep the island safe for tourists and residents, night and day.
Where is Cozumel?
The island of Cozumel is located just off the east coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is directly across the water from Playa Del Carmen and about an hour and a half from the Cancun airport.
Located on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (the second-largest coral reef system in the world), Cozumel is an incredible spot for turquoise Caribbean waters, white sand beaches, and world-class diving and snorkeling. This is DEFINITELY the Island Life!
When Is Cozumel Hurricane Season?
Cozumel hurricane season begins in late May and lasts until early November, with the peak occurring between September and October. The odds of a hurricane hitting Cozumel are fairly low (only six hurricanes have hit the island in the past 30 years), but hurricanes traveling near Cozumel can still cause inclement and severe weather. Be sure to check weather reports ahead of time and we always suggest getting travel insurance during these months just in case.
How to Get to Cozumel & Around
There are a few ways to get to Cozumel and around the island. Note that some larger resorts in Cozumel may provide free airport transportation, so check ahead.
Arrival By Air
Numerous airlines fly directly into Cozumel including American Airlines, United, Southwest, Frontier and Sun Country. The Cozumel International Airport (CZM) is very small (only 5 gates) and passengers must depart the airplanes down roll up stairs onto the runway. No skywalks here!
Be warned that American Airlines and United have been known to sometimes switch passengers headed to Cozumel onto Cancun flights last minute. This is a massive hassle as Cancun airport is huge and passengers would need to arrange overland travel 45 minutes south to Playa Del Carmen, walk a significant distance to the ferry and then take a 40-minute ferry ride to Cozumel. This can add a few hours of travel and plenty of extra money.
Search for great deals on flights here.
Arrival By Ferry
A 40-minute ferry ride is the only way to get to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen. Two ferry companies, Ultramar and Winjet, offer passenger-only services to and from the island for $8-13 one way and $17-$25 round trip. You can catch the ferry from the Playa Del Carmen ferry terminal located three blocks away from Juarez and 5th Avenue’s ADO bus station, where buses from Cancun arrive.
Arrival By Cruise Ship
Cruise ships traditionally stop at Cozumel daily, though passengers don’t have nearly as much time to explore the island. There is just too much to do in Cozumel!
Cruise ships dock at one of three cruise ship ports in Cozumel. Punta Langosta is conveniently right in town and close to shops and restaurants. Puerto Maya and the International Cruise Terminal are about 10 minutes drive south of town.
Search for great deals on cruises here.
Airport Shuttles In Cozumel
Unless you know somebody in Cozumel that can pick you up, you will need to take a shuttle to your hotel from the airport. Taxis are no longer allowed to pick up at the airport. Private and Group shuttles are available. The kiosks are right outside the baggage claim past the timeshare hawkers. Prices are standardized and regulated so there is no point in haggling.
By Car
Renting a vehicle may be the most convenient choice for getting around the island depending on how much exploring you plan on doing. It is an easy and affordable option as rental cars can be as cheap as $30/day. The roads around the island are fairly straightforward and safe.
We do not recommend renting a scooter unless you are a well seasoned motorcycle/scooter rider with significant riding experience.
Search for great deals on rental cars here.
By Taxi
Taxis can no longer pick up at the airport but they are a very convenient way to get around the island. They can easily be flagged down around town or can be called by your hotel.
Prices are standardized and regulated but can add up if you’re traveling from the resort areas to town or going to the wild east side of the island. Be sure to discuss the prices in advance of taking the ride so you know what you’ll pay.
Things to Do in Cozumel
Cozumel's Top Highlights
There is so much to do in Cozumel! From diving and snorkeling to jeep tours and beach lounging, it’s really easy to make each day in Cozumel a special experience. Here are just some of the activities you can enjoy on the island!
1. Visit The Wild East Side
The “wild” east side of the island is absolutely worth a visit. While the west side is primarily hotels and beach clubs, the east side of Cozumel is a paradise of remote beaches interspersed with fantastic local beach bars. There are also a few great places to grab a lounger, eat some fresh fish tacos and take a dip in the water such as Chen Rio and Punta Morena, but the real highlight of the east side is the wonderful natural emptiness of it all. Be sure to stop for a fresh handmade beach cocktail at Rastas, Welcome to Miami or Mezcalitos (or all three!) and let the sea breeze wash over you. Hammocks included.
Note: Since 2008, Sargassum (seaweed) has regularly arrived on the east coast beaches from May to August. It can pile up on the sand and be a little smelly. If the east coast has too much seaweed when you arrive, we recommend visiting Punta Sur (see below) or one of the excellent west coast Beach Clubs instead.
To reach the wild east side you can rent a car, hire a taxi in town or book a private tour in a van, jeep or dune buggy.
2. Go Diving
Cozumel is world-renowned for its scuba diving and proximity to numerous top dive sites. The Mesoamerican reef system is the second-largest reef system in the world (after the Great Barrier Reef), and there is extensive coral and sea life with incredible visibility. From beginner’s discovery dives to advanced drift dives, there’s something for everyone around Cozumel.
Be sure to check out our Cozumel Diving Guide for extensive information including recommendations for the top reefs, dive shops & dive schools.
ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP : GET TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel Insurance is a must in our opinion. Standard health insurance likely doesn’t cover you while outside of the country so travel insurance will cover any emergency medical needs as well as trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage (it happens), flight delays, missed connections and more. You can easily compare the top-rated travel insurance plans here.
3. Spend the Day at a Beach Club
The west side of Cozumel has incredible sparkling, turquoise waters and numerous beautiful beaches. When visiting the island, there are several fantastic beach clubs where visitors have access to sandy beaches, swimming pools, oceanfront restaurants, beach bars, sun loungers, water activities and more. They typically range in cost from $20 USD to $65 USD per person with the pricier options being all inclusive with drinks and food.
Check out our Best Cozumel Beach Clubs guide for great information about the top rated clubs on the island.
4. Take A Tour With A Local
Take your vacation in Cozumel to the next level by taking a tour with a local! There is nothing quite like getting an insider experience with people who live here and love all that the island has to offer. Curious about Cozumel’s green interior? Take a jeep tour to Cozumel’s original capital town, Cedral, a quaint community surrounded by forest on all sides. While there, take a jungle off-road visit to caves, trails and even a cenote where you can take a swim. If you are more interested in a water experience, head out from the local’s marina (not the tour boat marina) for some fishing, snorkeling and exploring on the way up to Passion Island. Once there, swim in the clear waters and enjoy a bbq on the beach, local family style! It doesn’t get much better than that. For arranging tours with a local, we recommend contacting Arturo at Smiggie’s Excursion Concierge, and start planning your unique private experience. Smiggie’s Excursion Concierge is now offering an exclusive tour that has you visiting a private hacienda with caves to explore, a plunge pool and a delicious asadero (open fire bbq). By the end of the day, you will have enjoyed an authentic piece of Cozumel, just like a local.
To arrange a private tour with locals, contact Arturo at Smiggie’s Excursion Concierge. You can email him here.
5. Go Snorkeling
The water off the coasts of Cozumel is world famous, so jump in! There are numerous snorkeling locations where you can simply enter from the shore, or you could take a boat tour out to the incredible reefs. If time is short, a shallow reef snorkel tour may be the perfect way for you to experience the underwater world. Feel like a full day snorkel excursion? Check out some of the many longer tours to the deeper sections of the reefs to try and spot some of the larger species that call this water home. Whatever you choose, you will be smiling the whole time.
Be sure to check out our Cozumel Snorkeling Guide for the best snorkel sites and tour company recommendations.
6. Take a Bike or E-Bike Tour
Cozumel is the perfect location for tourists seeking adventure, relaxation and natural beauty. With its flat roads, breathtaking scenery and warm weather, riding a bicycle or an e-bike in Cozumel is a fun way to explore the island. Whether you are a casual bike rider or an experienced cyclist, taking a bicycle tour in Cozumel is an excellent way to experience the island’s stunning landscapes, tranquil coastlines, and vibrant culture. If you aren’t feeling up to pedaling, consider using an e-bike. While you can simply rent a bicycle and discover the island on your own, we recommend taking a guided tour with GoZumel. They offer a variety of e-bike tours that are comfortable, safe and are sure to create lasting memories.
Check out various E-Bike tours with GoZumel.
7. Try Sport Fishing
Deep sea and bottom fishing are fast becoming very popular activities here in Cozumel. Stunningly clear water and excellent weather create an enticing environment for this thrilling sport. If you are one of the many visitors to the island who are passionate about fishing, we recommend booking a private boat for the adventure of a lifetime. The waters around Cozumel are famous for a reason, they are teeming with gorgeous fish. Sailfish, Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Kingfish, Barracuda and so many more swim through these waters daily. Whether you are an experienced mariner or have never been sea fishing before, don’t worry, the award-winning team at Aquadventures will guide you through every troll and reel. Bring some friends, bring your family, come enjoy a day on either the beautiful Grand Slam or Why Not boat stocked with everything you need to have a fun and exciting day on the water.
To arrange a private fishing or snorkeling charter, check out this highly rated outfitter.
8. Go Shopping
No vacation to Mexico would be complete without at least a little shopping, and Cozumel is the perfect place to do just that. With dozens of shops ranging from high end silver jewelry to beach bag vendors, whatever your heart desires can be easily found. Although most people naturally flock to the town center or the Royal Village Mall by the cruise ship port, we recommend taking the time to explore a little further afield to find some true treasures. You may just end up buying your hammock from a local who has just finished stitching it on his front stoop! Also, whether you have one day for shopping or many days, you must be sure to visit Los Cinco Soles. Located at the north end of the waterfront, this is an exceptionally well-appointed shop. Filled to the brim with stunning art, souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, traditional handicrafts and more, Los Cinco Soles has something for everyone. It even has a tequila tasting bar! All created by Mexican artisans, farmers and families. You will be so happy you visited.
Be sure to check out Los Cinco Soles about a 5 minute walk up the coast road from the main square.
9. Take a Mexican Cooking Class
Mexican food is definitely one of the main things to love about this region. Be it traditional Yucatecan cuisine or home-cooked Mexican classics like enchiladas or street tacos, there is something for everyone in Cozumel. Why not have some fun learning how it’s done and take home some great memories and new skills with you? There are a number of very popular cooking classes available in Cozumel.
Explore a variety of Cozumel cooking classes here.
10. Visit Punta Sur Ecological Park
The entire southern point of Cozumel island is a sprawling nature preserve known as Punta Sur. It one of the best places to see the island’s vast natural habitat. With some of the most beautiful beaches on the island (bring your swimsuit!) and incredible mangrove marshlands (a free boat ride to see wild crocodiles and birds is included), Punta Sur is a nature lovers dream. Be sure to stop at the lighthouse and climb to the top for epic 360 degree views. There is so much to explore at Punta Sur, be sure to get there early and bring some extra money for food and drinks at the beachside restaurants.
To reach Punta Sur you can rent a car, hire a taxi in town or book a private tour in a van, jeep or dune buggy.
11. Go on a Jeep Tour
While there are a number of paved roads around the island, many parts of Cozumel still only have dirt road access. Jeep tours are a popular way to see much more of the island. With trips through the woods and stops at beaches, a Jeep Tour can be an excellent (and at times, bumpy) way to get the lay of the land on the island.
Explore a variety of jeep tours here.
Where To Stay In Cozumel
There are all types of accommodations in Cozumel. From all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels to hostels and more. Location and amenities are the two top things to look for. For great hotel info and recommendations, check out our Cozumel Hotel Guide or our Cozumel All-Inclusive Resort Guide.
For hotel recommendations for every budget, check out our Cozumel Hotel Guide
What To Eat In Cozumel
You can find a wide range of wonderful bites to eat on Cozumel. If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, check out our Cozumel Restaurant Guide.
For great restaurant recommendations, check out our Cozumel Restaurant Guide
What To Pack For Your Trip!
The Mexican Caribbean is an enchanting wonderland of relaxation and adventure, one can easily have the trip of a lifetime here. Packing for such a vacation shouldn’t be hard, so we’ve put together a list to help you pack and included some of our favorites as well. Check out our What To Pack For Your Mexico Vacation Guide.
Check out our Packing List For Beach Vacation!
Find The Best Cozumel Flights
Finding the best flights to Cozumel shouldn’t be hard. We think the Kayak travel search engine is the best way to start. We’ve put together a quick guide to searching for the best flights using Kayak. Check out our Finding The Best Flights To Cozumel Guide.
Check out our Finding The Best Flights To Cozumel Guide!
More
MEXICAN CARIBBEAN
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Cozumel Beach Bar Guide
The Best Beaches In Cozumel Without The Crowds
Cozumel Diving Guide
The Best Cozumel All Inclusive Resorts
Cozumel Hotel Guide
Cozumel Restaurant Guide
Cancun Visitors Guide
Tulum Visitors Guide
Holbox Visitors Guide
Isla Mujeres Visitors Guide
Playa Del Carmen Visitors Guide
Hello, Is there a booklet or brochure you can send me. I will be cruising there in January. Thanks.
We dont have a booklet but there are loads of great recommendations in our web guides. I hope it helps you plan the perfect vacation!
Very informative, well-written info blog. Glad I found it!
I love the idea about visiting Buccanos! I’ll have to check that out on my next trip.
You will LOVE Buccanos.
I love the idea of an Island Photoshoot. I’m a female solo traveler, so this sounds like a cool thing to do while on vacation. Thank you for the guide!
Cool, I want to go there!
What a great comprehensive guide! I appreciate the wealth of information shared here. Thanks.
Thanks Linda! Glad you like it.
SO helpful for our trip to Cozumel coming up, thank you!
Happy to help!
We are coming Nov13-Nov18 2021. This is our 1st time. Our son will turn 15 while on the cruise and this is his surprise birthday present
Have a wonderful time! What a great present 🙂
This was such a great find! Thank you for posting this guide. We used it literally daily to pick what we would do and where we would go.
What a joy! This guide has taken the search out of my research. You all have saved me so much time. I can’t wait to get there with my family and see all of these places in person.
Forget trying to navigate TripAdvisor, this guide was exactly the thing we needed to organize our trip. Thank you 😊
Thanks for posting this. It was so much more helpful than the other guides I have found online. It made my Cozumel trip so much easier.
Really helpful guide. We referred to this (and your other guides) multiple times on our recent trip. Thanks so much.
A great blog post with just enough information to make you feel like you actually know something about Cozumel. Loved the history sections. Thanks for posting, all this info made our trip that much easier. Keep it up!