Our trip to Cozumel is one we’re still thinking about! When I first visited, I was just 16 years old and on a cruise with my family. Needless to say, returning years later as an adult, on a week-long trip with my partner, was an unforgettable experience. a lot different experience!
We spent a week in Cozumel and were pleasantly surprised by how much we were able to see in a short amount of time. Scuba diving, lazing on the beach, visiting ruins, road trips, eating everything in sight… Cozumel has something for everyone.
You might just want to relax on the beach with a drink in hand, and I totally get that. But after visiting here, I recommend leaving the beach behind and checking out the many other things to do in Cozumel.
Cozumel is one of the best places to visit in Mexicoso give yourself some time here.
I highly recommend that you schedule a minimum 5 days To see all the things to do in Cozumel, you might even want to stay longer. With many incredible things to do in Mexicomake sure Cozumel is on your list.
15 Best Things to Do in Cozumel
Here’s my list of our favorite activities in Cozumel for adults that you don’t want to miss!
1. Visit Punta Sur Ecological Park
Punta Sur Ecological Beach is the best beach on the island, and a visit to this eco-park is a must! This is not a “Disneyland” type place, it is a natural gem and the first thing to do in Cozumel.
This area is located in the south of the island and covers an area of 2,500 acres. There is an entrance fee ($25 USD for adults and $17 for children), but in my opinion it is worth it.
There are plenty of things to do inside the park, here are some of our top picks:
The lighthouse
Within the Punta Sur Ecological Park is the Celarain Lighthouse, which was built to warn sailors at night of the dangers of running aground off the southern coast of Cozumel. The lighthouse is now part of a maritime museum.
For a 360-degree view of the island, you can climb the 133 steps to the top. On a clear day you can even see the coast of Cubabut unfortunately for us, this was not the case. Entrance fees to Punta Sur Ecological Park include the Celerain Lighthouse.
Boat trip in the marshes
A 40-minute tour of the marshes of the Punta Sur Ecological Park is also offered. They cannot guarantee that you will see crocodiles on the day of the tour (we were lucky and saw a few!), but you will see many species of birds, including the roseate spoonbill.
These short boat tours currently depart at 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. Confirm times at the park entrance upon arrival.
Visit the Mayan Ruin
The ruin of El Caracol – also called Tumba del Caracol due to its small size – dates back to 1200-1500 AD. Caracol means “snail” in Spanish and the ruins owe their name to the snails that decorate the small dome at the top of the temple.
The structure was built as a hurricane early warning system for the Mayan people. The roof was constructed so that the strong breeze produced a humming sound alerting the Mayans to the impending danger.
2. Private Jeep Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling
One of the best things to do in Cozumel is a Private Jeep Tour with Lunch and the possibility of snorkelling. The tour comes with your own private guide, meaning he knows the most secluded beaches for snorkeling and swimming without the crowds.
The best part about this Cozumel tour is that it is completely customizable. Let your guide know in advance what you want to see in Cozumel and they will prepare an itinerary tailored to your needs!
Besides private transportation, snorkeling, tequila tasting, Mexican lunch, and a stop at a beach club are included in the trip. For more information Click here.
3. Go sailing
This is definitely one of the best things to do in Cozumel! There is plenty to see around the island and boarding a catamaran is the best way to do it.
You can either relax on board enjoying drinks and snacks, or snorkel on the reef and admire the magnificent marine life. When you snorkel, you’ll have the chance to spot sea turtles, stingrays, and maybe even a shark.
The waters around Cozumel are safe for swimming and snorkeling. Click here for a great catamaran tour to El Cielo and Money Bar Beach – which is very affordable and includes all drinks (margaritas too!) and food.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, traveling with a group, or simply want luxury in your life, you’ll want to book this private catamaran trip which includes all food and drinks, snorkel equipment and more.
You can book now and pay later, which is always a good thing if you’re not 100% sure about your travel plans. Additionally, you can cancel up to 24 hours before departure. Learn more here.
4. Visit Mayan Ruins
Did you know that there is mayan ruins on Cozumel?! To be honest, we didn’t until our recent visit.
Located in the northern part of Cozumel, nestled in the underexploited jungle, you will find the Archaeological site of San Gervasio (the pre-Hispanic name was Tantun Cuzamil).
Of course, these ruins are not as large or impressive as Chichen Itza Or Ruins of Tulumbut they are interesting in their own way. This is one of the more unusual things to do in Cozumel and makes a great day trip.
We went there by car our rental car then I hired a guide to the site – who really brought the place to life. You have to pay for two entrances, but in total it costs about $10. The cost of a guide (if desired) is around $20 for a 1.5 hour tour. Click here for directions.
5. See the Cozumel Pearl Farm
A visit to the family business Cozumel Pearl Farm is a unique excursion where you are taken by boat to a secluded beach in an uninhabited area of Cozumel.
The first part of the tour is a demonstration and explanation of pearl cultivation techniques. The second part of the tour takes you to the pearl hatchery itself.
At the hatchery, you can snorkel to see how pearls are grown while learning about the reef system and admiring the life-size underwater statue of the Virgen de Guadalupe.
The rest of your time is spent swimming in the warm azure waters or lazing in one of the many hammocks, and of course enjoying your lunch with included drinks. Click here to find out more.
6. Discover the Mayan Cacao Company
Just 15 minutes from downtown Cozumel is the Mayan Cacao Company. Who doesn’t love chocolate?!
One of the many things the Mayans are known for is their production of chocolate from the beans of the cocoa trees. After the fermentation, drying and roasting process, they ground the beans into a paste, added hot water and prepared the first hot chocolate drink.
The tour lasts 70 minutes and you can also taste chocolate. Click here to obtain your entry ticket.
If you prefer a more interactive experience, join this fun workshop! You’ll learn how to make a handmade chocolate bar with the authentic Mayan recipe…and how to make a chocolate margarita (and drink it, of course). Both tickets can be booked now and paid for later, with free cancellation as well.
⇒ See also: 19 Fun Things to Do in Isla Mujeres – Mexico’s Women’s Island
7. Visit the Mirador
El Mirador is located on the east coast of the island of Cozumel, 30 minutes from the city center. Rent a moped, rent a car or take a private taxi to get here.
It is a naturally beautiful place where the sea has carved an arch into the rocks over the years. You can climb to the top for amazing views.
This is a great place to avoid the crowds. If you want to relax, a visit to El Mirador is one of the best things to do in Cozumel. Find it on the map, here.
☞ For other natural rock formations surrounded by water, don’t miss Lands End, one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas.
8. Swim and snorkel at Playa Chen Rio
Cozumel has some of the the most beautiful beaches in MexicoAnd Chen Rio Beach is one you won’t want to miss. With its protected area and shallow waters, this beach is suitable for all levels of swimmers and snorkelers.
As an added bonus, Playa Chen Rio is located on the east coast, which is less popular than beaches located on the west coast – perfect if you want to get away from the crowds.
Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling, followed by lunch at one of the beach’s excellent restaurants, such as El Pescador Seafood Restaurant and Baror at the funky Coconuts bar.
Note: Although this beach is generally beautiful, always use caution when swimming on the east coast of Cozumel. The water can be quite choppy here and riptides are not uncommon. Always ask the locals before venturing there.
⇒ See also: 21 Things to Do in Guadalajara You Don’t Want to Miss
9. Relax at a beach club
There are many beach clubs and bars on the west coast. These beaches are calm and perfectly turquoise, while the beach bars and clubs are where you can rent kayaks, lounge on deck chairs or enjoy the beach club.
Some clubs have entry fees, like Uvas Beach Club which costs $20, including facilities, snorkeling equipment and kayak, while the Silver bar offers free chairs and umbrellas as long as you buy something.
I loved the Money Bar! I passed the day here several times while Nick was scuba diving. They gave me free snorkel gear, an umbrella and a chair. The food and drinks were also very good.
With Buccanos in the north, it’s $22 for chairs and umbrella, but that amount is subtracted from your bill. One of the most popular beach clubs is Mr. Sanchos, which offers an all-inclusive day pass. You can reserve your place here.
☞ SEE ALSO: Manzanillo Colima – The ultimate travel guide
10. Visit San Miguel, the capital of Cozumel
From Saint Michael is located on the west coast, one of the best activities here is walking the wide sidewalk along the waterfront at sunset. We did this almost every evening during our stay in Cozumel and loved watching the area come to life as everyone came out to enjoy the cooler temperatures.
During the day, when cruise ships are in port, the boardwalk is busy with cruise passengers, but outside of this time it is fairly quiet.
In the middle of San Miguel is the Z ocalo (a central park), every Mexican town or village has a Zocalo. It’s a meeting place for locals or a place to sit and just people watch.
If you’re in Cozumel on a Sunday evening, head to the Zocalo around 8:00 p.m. for plenty of free events.
☞ In Mexico, you will find many seaside walks with zocalos and free activities. Don’t miss walking along the Malecon and watching street performers, these are some of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Peace and many other Mexican cities.
⇒ See also: 21 Awesome Things to Do in Oaxaca City
11. Scuba Diving (one of the most popular activities in Cozumel)
Scuba diving along the Mesoamerican reef is without equal. If you are an advanced diver like Nick, you have the opportunity to dive at advanced sites in Cozumel like Maracaibo, Devil’s Throat, Cathedral or Barracuda.
Cozumel is known for its incredible snorkeling and scuba diving, so be sure to jump in the water during your trip!
We spent a week scuba diving in Cozumel and I did a total of 12 dives with Tony Submarineand I also went diving with them. The captains and dive guides were all very professional and welcoming, and the dive boat and equipment were in great condition.
I’m pretty hardcore when it comes to boating safety and felt totally comfortable with Scuba Tony (both the crew and the boat itself).
You can either meet at their location in the marina or, if you’re staying in the south, the dive boat will pick you up directly from your hotel jetty – how cool is that?!
Whether you are open water, advanced or just learning to dive, you will be impressed by the underwater world. Whatever your experience level, you’ll love spotting turtles, rays, eels, lobsters, fish and of course colorful corals.
Night diving is also popular and a unique way to experience the creatures: expect to spot octopuses, sharks, eels and more. Diving in Cozumel is popular, and for good reason. Learn more about diving Tony here.
⇒ See also: 21 Best Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende
12. Eat Mexican food
Mexican cuisine is our favorite. Eating street food is one of the best things to do in Mexicobut if you’re not heading to the capital, you’ll still be spoiled for choice in Cozumel.
Think burritos, tacos, tortas, ceviche, enchiladas, churros and of course drinks like tequila, mezcal, margaritas and a cold Corona with a slice of lime.
Some of our favorite restaurants in Cozumel are:
- Cooked for fantastic tacos – Av Lic Benito Juárez 254, Centro
- Mad King Burrito …for, you guessed it, burritos – Calle 4 Norte 5 at Centro San Miguel
- Miss Taco – Avenue Benito Juarez and 60th
- La Monina – tasty cuisine with epic sunset views
13. Join a food tour
If you love food tours as much as we do, Cozumel Chefs Food Tour is the one you need. The tour takes you to several different restaurants where you can enjoy a Mexican dish and a local drink.
The places you’ll visit are off the usual tourist trail, which means you’ll eat like a local. Even vegetarians are welcomed on this tour.
This is one of the best excursions in Cozumel if you like authenticity. Mexican cuisine. Make sure you’re hungry! For more information and reservation, Click here.
⇒ See also: 10 things to see and do in Guanajuato
14. Deep sea fishing
For deep sea fishing enthusiasts, Cozumel is the perfect place and one of the best companies (Beach Bum Cozumel) offers an incredible experience. Even if you’re not a die-hard fisherman, this is still one of the best things to do in Cozumel.
Nick did some deep sea sailfish fishing on our trip to Manzanillo, but he didn’t get the chance in Cozumel.
Barracuda, mahi mahi and triggerfish are among the local catches around Cozumel. You can fish for tuna all year round, and from March to July, white and blue marlin and sailfish are available. You can book the boat now and pay later. For more information and charter reservations Click here.
⇒ See also: 21 Things to Do in Mazatlan, Mexico
15. Watch the sunset
At the end of the day, nothing beats a good sunset with a cocktail in hand. We recommend that you check Hemingway, El Palomar Restaurant and Bar And La Monina on the west side of the island. These are all great places we frequented during our trip to Cozumel.
If you don’t like sitting at a restaurant, you can always watch the sunset from the Malecon, a pier, or the beach…the best free activity in Cozumel, for sure.
More Fun Activities in Cozumel
There are so many other fun things to do in Cozumel that I had to add more to the list.
Ride a jet ski
If you’ve never heard of a jet ski, you need to take a look at this tour. Explore sunken ships and the beautiful Caribbean Sea, while an underwater scooter does all the “swimming” for you. Then, enjoy a market and a local Mexican lunch. Learn more about this fun day trip to Cozumel here.
Night snorkeling to spot octopuses
After being briefed by your guide, you’ll put on your snorkel gear, turn on your light, and head out to sea. You won’t go by boat, you’ll just walk into the water from the shore.
Join This highly rated, 4+ hour snorkel tour and spot octopus, turtles, squid and more in the wild. It’s an experience you won’t forget and it’s one of the best things to do in Cozumel at night. Learn more here.
Join a cooking class
If you’re looking for things to do in Cozumel for foodies, check out This amusing culinary experience. Start the trip by visiting a local market and discovering the typical foods of Mexico. Then, go to a family home and learn how to make authentic Mexican food…and of course, eat it! You will prepare dips, main dishes, snacks and drinks are also included. Learn more here.
Where is Cozumel located?
The island of Cozumel or “Isla Cozumel” as it is called in Spanish is located 19 km off the coast, opposite Playa del Carmen, in the Yucatán Peninsula. Cancun, known as “Mexico’s premier party destination,” is 45 miles north of Cozumel.
We were in Playa del Carmen when we decided to head to Cozumel – the quieter alternative to Cancun and Playa del Carmen. In fact, one of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen is to take a ferry to reach quiet Cozumel.
How to get to Cozumel?
If you are coming from Playa del Carmen (like us), the terminal is located in the city center, near the main square – Click here for directions on Google Maps. In only 30 to 45 minutesyou will cross the sea and arrive in Cozumel. Click here for the Cozumel ferry schedule, which includes costs.
Ultramar ferry works on “odd” days, while the Winjet Ferry works on “even” days of the week. The latest schedules can be found on their respective Facebook accounts. Having experienced both, I can say that the Ultramar ferry to Cozumel was nicer, faster and had more amenities on board.
Although there are direct flights to Cozumel, most people will arrive at the Cancun airport. From there you have several options to get to the ferry terminal at Playa del Carmen (to take the boat to Cozumel).
You can either take the bus, hire a taxi or opt for a private shuttle from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. This is the quickest, safest and most comfortable way to get to the Cozumel ferry. Click here for more details on airport transfers.
Note: If you’re on a budget and don’t mind sharing, there is a quick, safe and easy $25 shuttle you can take from the Cancun airport to the Playa del Carmen ferry port. Learn more here.
When is the best time to visit Cozumel?
You can visit Mexico all year roundbut the best time to visit Cozumel is between March and June, before the hurricane season begins.
The hottest months are July and August, which coincide with hurricane season which lasts until November. Winter is the busiest time e of Cozumel and extends from December to March.
We visited Cozumel in end of April, beginning of Mayand the weather was beautiful – and there were fewer people.
Where to stay in Cozumel
Cozumel is a relatively small island, so you can stay just about anywhere and just get around by car or golf cart. That said, for beach lovers, you’ll want to stay on the west coast as the east is rugged and windy.
If you plan to do a lot of diving, you may want to stay somewhere that has its own pier. Here are some of my recommendations for the best accommodation in Cozumel. To learn more, be sure to check out our Where to Stay in Cozumel Guide.
Stingray Villa: We spent 5 nights in this beautiful little 4 bedroom boutique villa hotel located a few blocks from the sea. The rooms have painted interiors and all overlook a beautiful and quiet communal swimming pool. If this one is reserved or not your style, another popular option is El Encanto Villas.
Iconic tourist resort: We stayed here last time we were in Cozumel and loved it. In fact, we could see ourselves spending weeks, even months, in this spacious and beautifully decorated apartment complex with sea views. Highly recommended. As an added bonus, the Money Bar Beach Club and scuba diving pier were right here!
The Westin: A cool hotel on the north end of Cozumel that has its own private beach, outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and free amenities like snorkelling equipment.
Best Restaurants in Cozumel
Cozumel is a foodie’s paradise. We ate at many local and international restaurants during our stay there. Of course, many menus feature seafood, but there are many other great dishes, including Mexican cuisine, steaks, burgers and pastas.
Here are some of our favorite restaurants on the island of Cozumel.
Buccanos: We love this little restaurant/bar on the beach. There is a wonderful view of the sunset, good food and delicious cocktails.
La Monina: One of our favorite little Mexican restaurants on the beach in Cozumel. Be sure to try the seafood here.
Lobster shack: This was the first meal Nick ate during our last visit to Cozumel. . These lobster rolls are the best we’ve had since we arrived Nova Scotia.
Serene Cozumel: Probably the best view from a restaurant on the island, Sereno also offers excellent food and friendly service.
Cafe Cozumel: A great coffee shop in Cozumel. The coffee is tasty, as are the breakfasts.
The maple bakery: Another great breakfast place.
Blue Wood: A more upscale place with great food – enjoy the surf and turf!
Cozumel Travel Itineraries
As I said before, Cozumel is a small island, so most people visit it for a few days or a week. We stayed for a week and could have stayed longer! Below I have included some suggested itineraries for these times.
3 days in Cozumel
On the first day, wake up and head to Cafe Cozumel for a morning drink and breakfast, then head to Punta Sur to spend the day crocodile watching, enjoying the views and swimming. This will take most of the day, but you may have time to check the Mayan ruins in the afternoon before going to a beach bar for sunset.
On the second day, start your day with a deliciously sweet breakfast at The maple bakery. Then you can either go on a snorkeling day trip or do a few dives if you like diving.
If you return in time for lunch, head to Sereno for delicious tacos. Then spend the afternoon at a beach bar before going to The point of view in the afternoon for sunset. End the day at Buccanos for a late afternoon cocktail and dinner.
On your last day, wake up and head to your favorite spot between The Maple Bakehouse and The Coffee Cozumel for coffee and breakfast. So either join a private jeep tour. This will take most of the day and will include lunch. So, in the afternoon, when you are finished, consider visiting the Cocoa business.
Dine at La Monina or head to Lobster Shack for a quick roll, then head to El Palomar Restaurant and Bar for sunset cocktails and if you’re lucky, live music.
A week in Cozumel
For the first 3 days, do all the activities in the 3-day Cozumel itinerary above. On the fourth day, head to a Beach Club for the day. End the day with a sunset in San Miguel and dinner at Azul Madera.
On the fifth day, wake up early and go deep sea fishing. This will take most of the day and will include lunch. When you’re done, rest a bit before heading out to dinner at one of the restaurants with sunset views.
Day 6 can begin with coffee and pastry at your hotel, before visiting San Miguel, the capital of Cozumel. For lunch, eat at local Mexican restaurants in the capital, before visiting the Cozumel pearl farm in the afternoon. In the evening, head to the Monkey Beach Club for fun music and food.
On your last day, wake up and have a quick breakfast snack before meeting up for dinner. Cozumel Chefs Food Tour at 11 a.m. This will take you from lunch to late afternoon. At that point, just head to a beach club and enjoy your last day on the sand, swimming and snorkeling. I recommend Sky Reef Or Mr Sanchos.
Cozumel Travel FAQs
Is Cozumel safe?
Cozumel is very safe. It’s a small island where everyone knows each other. There is very little crime on the island and you can travel safely to almost every corner. Just be careful if you plan to swim on the east coast as it is very wavy and dangerous there!
When is the best time to visit Cozumel?
Although you can technically visit Cozumel all year round, the best time to visit is between November and March. These months are outside of hurricane season, have many sunny days, and are pleasantly cool.
What can you do at night in Cozumel?
Cozumel is pretty laid back, so don’t expect a crazy nightlife here. That said, Woody’s, Wet Wendys, La Rumba and The Money Bar are pretty cool places to have a drink and dance until the early hours.
Is Cozumel a good destination for traveling with family?
Absolutely. There are plenty of things to do in Cozumel for kids, including snorkeling, enjoying the calm waters of the beaches, going to nature reserves, and riding submarines.
What should I pack for a trip to Cozumel?
Bring plenty of sunscreen, swimwear, and snorkeling gear. Also don’t forget a hat and blanket, as the sun here can be intense even when you wear sunscreen. Most other things you might need can also be purchased on the island upon arrival.
Should I tip in Cozumel?
Generally speaking, Mexico is a tourist culture in which Americans and Canadians have brought their tipping customs to major tourist destinations like Cozumel. In restaurants, we expect about 10 to 15%. Cleaning staff would appreciate $2-3 per day at your hotel and taxis/tour guides will expect a 10% tip most of the time.
Is it safe to drive in Cozumel?
Cozumel is an easy place to drive. You can rent a car or get a golf cart. Both are fun and easy ways to get around. Just be careful of one-way streets and narrow beach roads.
Conclusion
Cozumel is a true island paradise. It’s laid back, just like the locals, and offers a calmer atmosphere than its coastal neighbors. We loved our trip to Cozumel – above and below the water!
Cozumel is an island that will wake you up at sunrise on the east coast, while just 16 km from the island you can enjoy an aperitif on the west coast. There are many fun things to do in Cozumel and we hope this list has given you some good ideas on where to start.