Dreaming of turquoise water, coral reefs, and island vibes? Head to Cozumel! Just off Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Cozumel is a tropical paradise known for world-class diving, white-sand beaches, and rich Mayan culture. Whether you're snorkeling a reef, exploring ancient ruins, or sipping margaritas seaside, Cozumel is the perfect Caribbean escape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cozumel is from November to April, when the weather is warm, dry, and sunny. This is peak season, with great visibility for diving and snorkeling. May through October brings hotter temperatures and occasional rain, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

How to Get There

  • By Air: Cozumel International Airport (CZM) offers direct flights from major U.S. cities and Mexican hubs.
  • By Ferry: Frequent ferries run from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel (about 45 minutes). Playa is accessible via Cancun International Airport (CUN).
  • By Cruise: Cozumel is a popular stop on Western Caribbean cruise itineraries.

Where to Stay

  • Iberostar Cozumel – All-inclusive beachfront resort with diving facilities and bungalow-style rooms.
  • Presidente InterContinental Cozumel – Luxury hotel offering elegant accommodations and direct reef access.
  • Casa Mexicana Cozumel – Centrally located hotel in San Miguel with great value and a rooftop pool.

Top Attractions

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

© Courtesy of filtv - Fotolia.com

The largest ecological reserve on the island, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including crocodiles, beautiful flowers, and exotic birds. The park boasts a beautiful beach with showers, hammocks, lounge chairs, and a lifeguard to ensure the safety of everyone in the water.

Visitors can also climb to the top of the historic Celarain Lighthouse, which offers wonderful panoramic views of the ocean and the island. Ample free parking is available, and there are several restaurants and snack bars to ensure that visitors don't go hungry.

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

© Courtesy of virsuziglis - Fotolia.com

One of the top attractions on the island, Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park is located only 10 minutes away from the cruise ship terminal. There is plenty to see and do here, but highlights include snorkeling in the colorful reef, interacting with manatees and sea lions, and lounging under the umbrellas or in the hammocks on the beautiful beach. Visitors can also swim with dolphins, but this activity is quite popular, and advance reservations are recommended. It's easily possible spend an entire day in the park.

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park, Carretera Costera Sur Km. 9, Cozumel, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Phone: +52-987-872-9760

Chichi Charters

Chichi Charters

© Courtesy of luna marina - Fotolia.com

Family owned and operated, Chichi Charters specializes in private charters perfectly tailored to their clients' wishes. A wide variety of activities are available, including snorkeling, deep sea fishing, bottom fishing sunset tours, and SCUBA diving. The boats can accommodate a maximum of between six and 18 people, and they all have Marine Park Permits so that you can visit the beautiful protected reefs around the island. A minimum deposit is required, and credit cards can only be used when you book your trip as the company does not have a credit card machine at the marina.

Chichi Charters, Caleta Marina, Cozumel 77600, Phone: +52-987-101-3337, Facebook

If you are traveling with kids:

Chocolates Kaokao Factory Tour

Chocolates Kaokao Factory Tour

© Chocolates Kaokao Factory Tour

The Chocolates Kaokao Factory has been creating handcrafted Mexican chocolate products since 2007, and the Chocolates Kaokao Factory Tour allows visitors to witness this amazing process up close. Visitors will learn about the history of chocolate in Mexico, plus they have the opportunity to craft their own chocolate drinking mix. Visitors also get to sample the cacao during all the different stages of the chocolate-making process. Tours last approximately one hour. Reservations are required, and group discounts are available for groups of six or more people.

Chocolates Kaokao Factory Tour, 1a. Bis Sur S/Npor 80 Bis. Av. Sur, Flores Magón, 77670 San Miguel de Cozumel, Phone: +52-987-869-4705

Cozumel Pearl Farm

Cozumel Pearl Farm

© Cozumel Pearl Farm

Taking up part of the secluded north side of the island, Cozumel Pearl Farm is a family-run pearl farm located on a pristine white sand beach. The pearls are grown and harvested using knowledge from the South Pacific, and experts will be on-site to explain the process and answer your questions. After touring the lab, you will have the opportunity to snorkel out to see the pearl hatchery. Tours last approximately six hours. Afternoon tours are sometimes offered when there are late cruise ship arrivals.

Cozumel Pearl Farm, Cozumel Franja de Montecristo, 77601 Cozumel, Phone: +52-987-119-9216

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Palancar Reef – Dive or snorkel this stunning coral reef teeming with tropical fish and marine life.
  • San Gervasio Ruins – Visit ancient Mayan ruins once dedicated to the goddess Ixchel.
  • El Cedral – Historic village with a small ruin, local crafts, and authentic island culture.

Where to Eat

  • Guido’s – Local favorite for wood-fired Italian dishes and seafood in a cozy garden setting.
  • La Choza Cozumel – Traditional Mexican cuisine with flavorful mole and margaritas.
  • Kondesa – Creative Mexican fusion cuisine in an open-air tropical courtyard.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Cozumel Carnival (February/March) – Vibrant parades, costumes, music, and street parties leading up to Lent.
  • El Cedral Festival (Late April–May) – Cultural celebration with bullfights, processions, and folkloric performances.
  • Ironman Cozumel (November) – International triathlon attracting top endurance athletes and enthusiastic crowds.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Cozumel, Mexico:

  • Playa Mia Grand Beach Park (15–20 min) – Family-friendly beach club with waterslides, kayaks, and water trampolines.
  • Cielo Sandbar (Boat trip, 30 min) – Shallow sandbar known for crystal-clear waters and starfish-strewn seabeds.
  • Playa Palancar (20 min) – Chill beach with loungers, snorkeling tours, and shaded hammocks.
  • Punta Molas Lighthouse (Jeep tour, 30 min+) – Remote northern tip of the island with untouched beaches and a historic lighthouse.
  • Cozumel Pearl Farm (By boat) – Unique eco-tour and pearl discovery experience on the island’s north shore.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Q: Why is Cozumel a popular tourist destination?
  • A: Cozumel, one of the largest Mexican islands, has long been beloved for its beautiful undeveloped beaches and excellent diving and snorkeling in the surrounding Caribbean waters.
  • Q: What activities can visitors enjoy in Cozumel?
  • A: Visitors can swim with stingrays or dolphins, sample delicious food and beverages, or visit an archaeological site to learn about traditional Mayan culture.

Map:


Plan Your Trip


Table of Contents: