Cozumel, Mexico’s largest Caribbean Sea island, has everything you’d want for in a beach vacation: white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back lifestyle. However, for a taste of Mexico, there are Mayan ruins, traditional Yucatecan food, and plenty of beach bars where you can get a tropical tequila-based beverage.
The 185-square-mile island is Mexico’s most popular cruise port, and its main town, San Miguel, hums with foot traffic due to the high number of ships that visit each year. As you might expect, San Miguel can be an overwhelming mix of souvenir stands and pricey restaurants, but if you know where to look, you can uncover authentic cafes and locals-only beaches that go unnoticed. Beyond the small village lies a protected natural environment with world-class scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Cozumel is a limestone island in the Caribbean Sea. It is essentially the end of the world’s second-longest barrier reef and one of the most popular cruise liner stops. Journey Mexico’s CEO, Zach Rabinor, estimates that about 3,000 ships carry over four million passengers annually. “The island is dominated by the cruise industry and teems with local vendors selling everything from tours to time-share real estate. Nonetheless, it has its own distinct charm and pockets of local culture.”
Whether you’re only here for a few hours or several nights, Cozumel has plenty to keep you busy. We’ve compiled a list of our top Cozumel travel tips, including where to go, what to do, and where to eat.
Best Resorts
1. InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa
The InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa, a Cozumel institution, offers luxurious accommodations and a long white-sand beach. The sleek, spacious suites provide amazing views of the Caribbean Sea, and visitors who wish to experience Cozumel’s world-class diving can visit the on-site dive center or relax at the spa.
2. The Explorean Cozumel
Don’t be put off by this adults-only all-inclusive’s lack of beachfront location. It’s an upscale experience with a variety of activities, including daily guided snorkeling tours, horseback riding, kayaking, and driving dune buggies. It’s just a short walk to the beach at its sister resort, Fiesta Americana Cozumel.
3. Iberostar Cozumel
Iberostar Cozumel is a top family-friendly all-inclusive resort in Cozumel, with a peaceful beach, two huge pools, spa, and kids’ club. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of San Miguel and have first-rate access to the island’s best diving.
4. Fiesta Americana Cozumel
The Explorean is an adults-only resort, while Fiesta Americana Cozumel is a family-friendly beachside destination. Guests can enjoy a private boat dock with overwater beds, suites with balconies, and five restaurants.
Best Restaurants
1. Aqui + Ahora
Sometimes all you need is a strong cup of coffee and a breakfast menu that runs till noon. Aqui + Ahora, a coffee establishment conveniently located across from the ferry station, offers just that. I adore this place because of its stylish decor, sea views, and extensive menu of delicious juices. The Yucatan Dream 85 is a must.
2. Buccanos
Cozumel has many beach clubs, but Buccanos distinguishes out in a positive manner. It is strategically positioned in the North Hotel Zone and features a sandy beach and a laid-back atmosphere. It also offers some of the greatest seafood in town. Expect to pay tourist pricing, but that is the usual in Cozumel. By night, Buccanos offers a stunning sunset dinner experience. Make bookings as long in advance as feasible.
3. La Casita de Indio
La Casita de Indio is unlike any other experience on Cozumel. If you enjoy having a sense of community, this is the dining experience for you. “This local spot has a family cooking for you in their own home,” Rabinor went on to say. “They even encourage you to go to the fish market and bring them the day’s catch, which they will prepare for you.” They make some mean coconut shrimp.”
Best Things to Do
1. Dive the Mesoamerican Reef.
Cozumel is located near the northern extremity of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second-largest barrier reef after the Great Barrier Reef. The reef system, teeming with species such as brilliant coral, a kaleidoscope of fish, sea turtles, and sharks, is one of Cozumel’s main attractions, and visitors prioritize diving.
2. Snorkel Playa El Cielo.
You don’t need to be PADI-certified or travel far offshore to have an unforgettable underwater adventure in Cozumel. Playa El Cielo, located off the island’s southern shore, is well-known for the thousands of undersea starfish distributed across the fine white sand, looking like stars in the sky. El Cielo translates to “heaven,” so it’s no surprise that this beach carries that moniker. “El Cielo is a spectacular shoal/sandbar that can only be accessed by boat. “It’s a 30-minute drive and well worth it for those looking to avoid the more crowded beaches,” Rabinor added.
3. Visit Isla Pasion.
As if Cozumel didn’t offer enough pristine coastline, many day trippers to the island enjoy visiting the nearby deserted Isla Pasion. The idyllic island boasts crystal-clear waters, sun-bleached sand, and a plethora of activities to keep guests entertained, including kayaks and hammocks, beach volleyball, buffet-style restaurants, and pubs. Many cruise lines also provide excursion packages to Isla Pasion, making it simple to plan a visit.
4. Head to the beach clubs.
Cozumel boasts its own beautiful beaches and beach clubs. Most cruise passengers will stay to the beach clubs that overlook the tranquil Caribbean Sea and Playa del Carmen’s skyline. These locations include restaurants, showers, and restrooms, as well as a variety of water sports. The eastern shore of the island has numerous local beaches that are less busy and developed. These parts face the Atlantic Ocean and are far more rough, albeit gorgeous.
Best Time to Visit
The greatest time to visit Cozumel is between December and April, especially if you’re looking for a beach vacation. The peak season is characterized by bright days and little to no rainfall. January and February are the finest months to organize a trip if you want to avoid the heat and enjoy a nice night breeze.
However, if you want the best scuba diving conditions, choose June to December. Summer is the hottest season, and late summer and early fall bring the greatest rain, but you may also find great vacation prices and witness a lot of activity beneath the water’s surface.
If you plan to visit between August and October, you will be visiting during peak storm season. Travel prices are at their lowest during this period, so utilize your additional cash to purchase travel insurance in case you get rained out.