Searching for issues to do in Cozumel throughout your cruise trip? Don’t waste your time with boring “to do lists” when you possibly can simply concentrate on the perfect this island has to supply!
After studying by way of this text you’ll know EXACTLY what try to be doing throughout your go to to Cozumel, Mexico. A number of the issues on this listing are simply going to leap off the web page at you. So, take pleasure in!
Over 3 million folks cruise to Mexico’s most populated island yearly and all the mainstream cruise traces together with Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, Princess Cruises go to the island. There’s a purpose it’s one of the visited cruise ports on the earth.
As many as 8 cruise ships may very well be in port at one time.
Personally, I like visiting Cozumel. I like the climate, folks, setting, seashores, and total vibe. Each time I go to I discover one thing new, so this submit will element some distinctive and enjoyable experiences you possibly can have at this unbelievable cease alongside your cruise.
Planning what to do in Cozumel forward of time generally is a bit daunting. There’s a lot to do and see on this lovely and unique location.
From the pristine coral reefs and countless seashores to the plentiful purchasing on the town, Cozumel has one thing for everybody. Oh, and there may be even one thing for the Indiana Jones in you if you wish to discover some archeological websites.
The climate in Cozumel is about nearly as good because it will get all year long. Common temperatures are within the 70’s and 80’s (Fahrenheit).
On this submit we gives you among the greatest issues to do in Cozumel together with some useful info on methods to get across the island, what to anticipate, the place to go, and so forth.
Slightly info on Cozumel
There are over 100,000 folks dwelling at this municipality which is simply off the jap coast of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. The most important metropolis is San Miguel which is true close to the cruise ports on the west finish of the island.
The economic system of Cozumel depends closely on tourism, so the folks there can be very glad that will help you and be sure to have a nice expertise.
Many occasions I’ve had locals on the island assist me out or level me in the fitting route all whereas asking for nothing in return.
There are even particular autos that drive across the island so as to assist any vacationers which have damaged down and need assistance. A service that’s provided without cost.
Cozumel is generally flat with the very best level being simply 50 toes above sea stage. As you journey out of city you’ll discover the mangrove forests that dominates the panorama inland whereas each rocky and sandy seashores encompass the outside.
Do you might want to know Spanish? Most individuals dwelling in Cozumel communicate English and may perceive you completely high quality. However making an attempt to be taught just a few Spanish phrases and phrases could be very a lot appreciated.
Cruise ports in Cozumel: How far are they from downtown?
This can be a little complicated to those that have by no means been to Cozumel earlier than. Even when you’ve got been to Cozumel earlier than you may get off the ship and never acknowledge your environment since you may very well be at a very completely different terminal than earlier than.
There are 3 completely different cruise ship piers in Cozumel. One is near downtown and the opposite two are just a few miles out. So, let’s take a look at every terminal and its location.
- Punta Langosta. This pier is the closest to the downtown space, solely a few 5-minute stroll. You may be part of a strolling tour of San Miguel or simply discover by yourself with out having to stroll very far in any respect.
- Worldwide Pier. That is the place among the bigger cruise ships will dock: ships like Royal Caribbean Oasis class ships and bigger Norwegian Cruise Line ships. That is the oldest cruise pier in Cozumel and is about 3 miles from downtown.
- Puerta Maya. This pier was constructed by Carnival Cruise Line and is barely used for Carnival owned ships. It’s proper subsequent to Worldwide Pier. It’s been nicknamed “Little Cozumel” as many retailers, eating places, and trendy facilities are provided proper throughout the terminal space.
Each Worldwide Pier and Puerta Maya are about 3 miles from San Miguel, however it’s a protected and scenic stroll to the downtown space which I’ve accomplished just a few occasions. Taxis are low cost, however when you’ve got further time the stroll is doable.
Typically, ships must anchor simply offshore if it’s a really busy day with 7 or 8 cruise ships coming in. In these circumstances the ships will tender passengers to among the smaller piers close to Puerta Maya.
Learn how to journey round Cozumel
Cozumel does have an honest measurement airport in case you are considering of flying straight there. One factor I like about cruising is that it provides you a sampling of various locations which you can then revisit as soon as you discover what you want.
Renting a automobile
There’s a plethora of choices for renting a automobile and driving round Cozumel as nicely. The island is straightforward to navigate in a matter of a pair hours should you don’t make too many stops.
One of the simplest ways to tour Cozumel in your rental is to start out by heading south and drive alongside the shoreline. In case you’re driving a scooter or bike you should have your individual highway to journey on, making the journey stress-free. The additional you get away from the town the extra open and serene the panorama turns into.
How massive is Cozumel? The entire island is 28 miles lengthy and about 10 miles extensive. I’ve rented each vehicles and scooters to drive round Cozumel. (See map at backside of article)
One factor that must be famous about renting a automobile, although. In case you do occur to break the automobile in any approach chances are you’ll be required to pay for the repairs earlier than you permit the island. I’ve by no means had any mishaps, however I’ve heard that this may be a problem.
You may hire something from a dune buggy to a VW Beetle to a scooter and even motorbike in order for you. There are even Harley excursions you possibly can take.
As quickly as you get off the ship you can find distributors who’re capable of finding you nearly any kind of auto to hire if you wish to discover by yourself.
Renting Bikes and Scooters
A number of the downtown space can get crowded with vehicles and other people, however if you wish to enterprise out by yourself renting a motorcycle is likely to be a superb choice. There are numerous retailers that may hire scooters and bikes. In case you don’t wish to need to work an excessive amount of electrical scooters space out there too. And if you wish to go seaside hopping in your bike you may get one with fatter tires.
Taxis in Cozumel
Taxis are straightforward and inexpensive in Cozumel. The costs are set, and also you don’t want to barter. There’s a barely larger value when you’ve got greater than 4 folks and a bit extra when you’ve got 6-8 folks in your group.
You may pay with US {dollars}, however will probably be cheaper should you change for pesos first and use them. Bank cards usually are not accepted by taxi drivers so you will have to pay in money. Additionally, a 10-15% tip is appreciated.
Listed here are some costs you should use as a pattern for taxis charges. (These costs will greater than possible be completely different whenever you journey and are only for reference.) Costs are in US {Dollars} and are from the start line of Puerta Maya:
- Downtown: $8.00
- Uncover Mexico: $8.00
- Chankanaab: $12.00
- Chocolate Manufacturing facility: $11.00
- Playa Corona: $13.00
- Punta Sur: $35.00
- Airport: $16.00
- Full Island Tour: $100.00
Take a ferry
Cozumel is simply 12 miles from the mainland of Mexico. The ferry port is just not removed from downtown, so hopping on the ferry to see some extra sights in Mexico may make sense when you’ve got time throughout your cruise. Some excursions additionally require a ferry journey to the mainland to see Mayan Ruins or discover scenic caves.
The place to eat in Cozumel?
The non-adventurous can be glad to know there are just a few American staples in Cozumel. There’s a Subway, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks proper close to the Punta Langosta terminal and even a Burger King additional inland.
However for individuals who need a actually genuine expertise Cozumel doesn’t disappoint. There’s a myriad of eating places. You will get an informal, enjoyable eating expertise at one of many many eateries alongside the seaside or attempt one thing extra upscale.
I’ve had some extremely scrumptious tacos simply by stopping at one of many native distributors alongside the shoreline. And don’t neglect to get some native churros.
Cozumel is an island that’s identified for beautiful seafood mixed with frequent Mexican meals as tortillas, beans, and salsa. You could find inexpensive lobster dishes and loads of choices particularly in the primary metropolis of San Miguel.
After all Cozumel has the enduring Senor Frogs and Bubba Gump Shrimp in order for you an outdated standby.
Listed here are just a few locations we advocate for consuming in Cozumel:
- Costa Brava. Love consuming right here. Genuine Mexican meals at an affordable value. Pleasant employees.
- Casa Mission. For actually native Mexican meals and seafood. Positioned close to the middle of San Miguel
- La Mission Restaurant. Conventional Mexican meals proper close to the shore. Actually nice décor and nice meals.
- Guido’s Restaurant. Swiss-Italian restaurant with a stupendous patio and every day specials. Proper on the primary road of San Miguel with nice views of the ocean.
- Pepe’s Grill. Upscale eating with wonderful seafood. Owned by one of many oldest household’s on Cozumel.
Have you ever eaten in Cozumel and wish to tell us an amazing place to take a look at? Tell us within the remark part so the remainder of our readers can profit as nicely.
23 Greatest Issues to do in Cozumel
So now let’s check out some issues to do in Cozumel. We’ll cowl among the greatest issues to do on this island to offer you some concepts on your upcoming excursions and adventures.
1. Take a look at the wonderful reefs
Cozumel is a part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef system on the earth, and it’s a paradise for individuals who prefer to dive and snorkel.
As a result of a lot of the island is surrounded by among the most wonderful coral reefs within the Caribbean Cozumel has develop into a major attraction for hundreds of knowledgeable divers yearly.
Even should you simply wish to hire or deliver alongside some snorkeling gear it would be best to take a look at these pristine waters at one of many many coral reef areas.
Greatest locations for snorkeling or diving:
- Villa Blanca Reef. Positioned between 2 cruise ship piers. Wall after wall of gorgeous reefs.
- Chankanaab Reef. A part of Chankanaab Park. Reef is 300 yards from shore. Extra on Chankanaab later.
- Paradise Reef. Close to the marine park. A lot of coral and sea life to see like nurse sharks and stingrays. 3 reefs 600 toes from the shore.
- Palancar Reef. Higher for diving. Beautiful caves and drop-offs.
- El Cielo Reef. Nice for newbie snorkelers. Shallow water. A lot of starfish.
- Coral at Dzul Ha. 10 to fifteen foot depth with loads of lobster, crab, and all types of fish. Close to seaside membership and restaurant.
- Colombia Reef. Nice for diving with 80 foot drop-off. Discover large towers of coral, caves, caverns and marine creatures.
There are numerous extra locations you possibly can dive and snorkel in Cozumel, so don’t take a look at this listing as exhaustive. In truth, when you’ve got an amazing reef to take a look at please tell us within the remark part beneath this submit. We’ll add it to the listing if it seems to be good so everybody else can profit.
The primary time I went to Cozumel I introduced my very own snorkel gear and simply pulled over at random locations to take a look at the water. It’s actually arduous NOT to see some wonderful issues within the water round Cozumel.
RELATED: Greatest Locations within the Caribbean for Snorkeling
2. Go on a Boat Tour
For the reason that water round Cozumel is so exceptional why not take a ship journey round it so you possibly can see the entire thing
You are able to do this on a catamaran, glass-bottom boat, or perhaps a non-public constitution. The good factor about reserving a snorkeling or diving tour is that a few of them will contain a ship journey to the reef and you’re going to get to have a scenic boat journey on the similar time.
3. Take a Submarine Tour
Need to see the reefs with out getting moist? Then a submarine tour is only for you. The submarine will descend 100 toes beneath the floor and can look by way of portholes to see wonderful marine life, a sunken shipwreck, and even a 400 foot drop-off often known as The Wall.
4. Get pleasure from a Seaside Day (greatest seashores in Cozumel)
Cozumel has among the most wonderful seashores in all of Mexico and there are a number to select from. You may select a seaside for it’s snorkeling alternatives, it’s enjoyable ambiance, or for its culinary delights which are close by.
In case you hire a automobile you possibly can simply drive round to see the completely different seashores to see which is greatest for what you need your seaside day to be like. The jap aspect of the island is rocky and uncovered to the open ocean, however there are nonetheless some hidden away spots which are excellent for a seaside day.
Here’s a brief listing of a few of our favourite seashores in Cozumel:
- Playa Chen Rio. On the jap aspect however massive rocks break up the surf. That is the place some locals go and it’s not often very crowded. Some thick vegetation with sand and rocks.
- Playa Bonita. Romantic seaside with white sands and delicate waves. On the east. Mayan ruins close by.
- Playa Corona. Recognized for its nice diving and underwater surroundings. Seaside huts for shade. On the west coast.
- Playa Uvas. If you’d like a Miami Seaside sort of vibe with upscale loungers and shade spots that is your seaside.
- Playa San Francisco. A number of actions out there at this fashionable 3 mile stretch of sand.
- Palancar Seaside. 13 miles south of San Miguel. Away from the hustle and bustle. Pretty white sandy seaside.
Are any seashores close to the cruise ports in Cozumel? Whereas there are some seashores near Puerta Maya and Worldwide pier they may require a charge. Park Royal Seaside is only a 5-minute stroll from these two terminals and would require $40 per particular person to entry because it’s a part of a lodge. However the facilities and views from there are unbelievable.
Have your individual seaside so as to add to this listing? Tell us within the feedback beneath.
5. Swim with stingrays
It’s an unbelievable expertise to swim with the rays at Stingray Seaside. Don’t fear, the harmful barbs have been eliminated. You may each swim and snorkel with these wonderful creatures. It’s only a couple minutes from downtown.
6. Go to Chankanaab Nationwide Park
It amazes me how many individuals have been to Cozumel and have by no means been to Chankanaab. It’s one among my go-to locations on the island. It does price $21 for adults and $14 for kids to have entry to the park, however as soon as inside you can find sufficient issues for everybody to do for all the day.
There are nice seashores, loads of shaded loungers and hammocks, a pristine lagoon, alligators, a seal and sea lion present, dolphins, manatees, and a lot extra. Need to simply chill out in a hammock tied to a few palm bushes whereas the youngsters go have enjoyable? That is your home in Cozumel.
If you wish to swim with dolphins it is a excellent spot to do it as nicely.
See a video of what Chankanaab is like beneath:
7. Discover Mayan Ruins
Cozumel is just not identified for among the most elaborate Mayan ruins in Mexico, however there are nonetheless some value trying out in case you are .
The most important Mayan ruins in Cozumel are at San Gervasio, positioned within the central a part of the island. This was a holy web site devoted to the goddess of fertility.
If you’d like actually spectacular Mayan ruins you possibly can nonetheless see them throughout your cruise to Cozumel, however since they’re on the primary land of Mexico will probably be an all-day occasion which would require a ferry journey. Chichen Itza (just lately named one of many 7 wonders of the world) and Tulum are the primary Mayan websites you possibly can see. In case you can solely see one, take a look at Chichen Itza. It’s actually spectacular.
8. Tour the Chocolate Manufacturing facility
I did the chocolate manufacturing facility tour just a few years in the past and located it to be a very attention-grabbing expertise. It’s not an enormous manufacturing facility, however you get to see how the chocolate is domestically made and then you definitely get to make some your self. And naturally the perfect half is sampling the chocolate after you’re accomplished.
It’s referred to as Kaokao Chocolate Manufacturing facility and is only a $15 or so cab journey away. I like to recommend getting reservations forward of time as a result of time slots can refill shortly.
9. Zipline over Cozumel
There are just a few completely different locations for zipline thrill seekers. Chankanaab does have a zipline course or you possibly can take a zipline course that soars over among the mangrove forest in Cozumel. You may be 60 toes above the jungle ground and begin off from 6 completely different cover towers. Many of the course might be accomplished in about an hour so you’ll nonetheless have time for different actions.
10. Go on a Cave Tour
A number of the most unbelievable caves are discovered on the mainland at Rio Secreto, the place adventurers can discover a picturesque underwater river. This place might simply be a surprise of the world. Different cave excursions begin out with an ATV journey by way of the wild again roads of Cozumel.
11. Go Horseback Using
You’ve seen the images: a scenic seaside background with somebody driving a horse alongside the shoreline. That is on my to-do listing really, and Cozumel is a superb place to verify it off. You may journey horseback by way of the jungle after which alongside the seaside, after which you possibly can cease to get one thing to eat at Mr. Sancho’s Seaside Membership.
12. Play a Spherical of Golf in Paradise
Cozumel Nation Membership is true close to the shore and gives 18 holes of scenic magnificence. The fairways and greens might not be as lush as what you’re used to, however the wildlife and environment make up for it. It’s a few 30 minute cab journey from the cruise port.
13. Go Parasailing
The enjoyment of parasailing is within the aerial views you get to soak in. So, it’s much more pleasant when these views are of among the most pristine water alongside Mexico. There’s simply one thing about being a whole bunch of toes within the air, being pulled by a pace boat. The one factor to remember right here is that you could be be with a gaggle. This implies you’ll have to wait your flip and should spend extra time within the boat ready than really up within the air having fun with your parasailing expertise.
14. Be a part of the Manatees for a Swim Encounter
That is additionally a part of Chankanaab Park which is open from 9am to 5pm. These slow-moving creatures are not often seen within the wild so this tour gives you the flexibility to stand up shut and private with these “Mermaids of the Sea”.
15. Be a part of a Pirate Dinner Cruise
If you wish to really feel like a pirate for the day and get some nice meals together with some distinctive leisure that is the exercise for you. I’ve learn some rave opinions concerning the Jean Laffite Pirate Dinner Cruise however haven’t checked it out myself. However for many cruises this selection will happen too late within the day, so it’s actually solely doable in case you are staying in Cozumel for just a few nights. It goes from 6pm to 9pm, however I nonetheless wished to place it on this listing.
16. Hit the Outlets
You don’t’ even have to depart the cruise terminal to search out locations to buy, however do your self and the Cozumel locals a favor by venturing out and purchasing from native distributors. T-shirts and trinkets are unbelievable inexpensive and I haven’t discovered store homeowners to be too pushy in comparison with different ports.
The Royal Village Procuring Heart has some actually attention-grabbing locations to buy, together with one place that sells all types of medieval kind armor and décor.
Everybody wants not less than 1 or 2 Mexican blankets at house and you can find them in every single place in Cozumel.
You may pay in pesos or US {dollars}. In truth, you will notice a whole lot of indicators with costs in US {dollars}.
Necessary be aware: Simply watch out on utilizing native ATM machines. Final time I used an ATM machine in Cozumel I had my card info hacked. Follow indoor financial institution ATM’s should you can and all the time cowl your hand as you kind in your pin.
17. Uncover Mexico
You may’t see all of Mexico throughout your cruise, however this little cease will mean you can not less than really feel such as you did. The tour at Uncover Mexico Park will mean you can expertise the style, tradition, historical past, heritage, artwork, and music of Mexico. There are miniature scale fashions of well-known websites from round Mexico and a tour information will speak you thru a few of this nation’s most necessary landmarks.
18. See the Cozumel Pearl Farm
Not many cruisers enterprise as much as the northern a part of the islands to see this family-run pearl farm, however it’s best to. After seeing how the pearls are grown and harvested you possibly can snorkel out to see the pearl hatchery. Whereas snorkeling you possibly can see an underwater life-size Virgen de Guadalupe statue. Excursions can final about 6 hours.
19. Take a Mini-Sub Dive Tour
In case you love the concept of scuba diving however you need one thing a bit easier, this is likely to be the Cozumel exercise for you. No earlier diving expertise is required. You merely “put on” a form of “sub go well with” that permits you to go 20 toes beneath the water and have unobstructed views of the marine life. And with Cozumel’s status for nice reefs and pristine coral, it is a great point to do whereas cruising to this lovely island.
20. Be a part of the Superb Cozumel Race
Similar to you’ve seen on TV, you possibly can discover Cozumel whereas cracking clues, fixing mysteries, and enjoying adventurous video games with fellow vacationers. This aggressive journey will take about 4.5 hours and there’s a post-race award ceremony that follows. Folks appear to actually take pleasure in this tour. Even when the it finally ends up raining you gained’t be capable to dampen the enjoyable vibe on this exercise.
21. Swim with Whale Sharks
Positive you possibly can swim with dophins and stingrays on Cozumel, however should you actually wish to kick issues up a notch and take some spectacular photographs on your buddies again house, swimming with whale sharks is the ticket. Each summer time the whale sharks are available to the Yucatan Peninsula, so you possibly can snorkel together with them throughout their annual migration (June – September). The sensation of being so shut to those immense creatures is unforgettable.
22. Go to Punta Sur Eco Seaside Park
Nature lovers can indulge within the island’s largest ecological reserve at Punta Sur. Whether or not you wish to benefit from the white sandy seashores, climb the steps to the historic Celarain Lighthouse, or meet up with the native crocodiles, Punta Sur Eco Seaside Park is a gem on Cozumel. You could find a wide range of flora, fauna, flowers, birds, and even sea turtles. Guests may benefit from the Navigation Museum which is the outdated lighthouse keeper’s house. There they may be taught concerning the island’s wealthy historical past of Mayans and pirates that sailed the Caribbean waters.
23. Tantalize Your Style Buds with Cozumel Chef Meals Excursions
Are you a foodie? Style the complete flavors of Mexico with a meals tour that allows you to pattern the perfect the islands has to supply. Cozumel Chef Meals Excursions is all-inclusive and takes you to a Yucatecan restaurant, a standard Mexican market, a bakery, and some different stops alongside the best way on this 3 hour tour. Need to style a really genuine quesadilla? This can be a meals tour you’ll brag about whenever you get house. The price is $80 per particular person, and the excursions usually begin at 11am, excellent for cruise passengers.
You can too eat at some native eating places your self. Listed here are some locations to eat in Cozumel that a few of our readers have really helpful:
- Los Tacotales – An awesome inexpensive choice for road tacos and pozole in an open-air restaurant.
- Casa Cuzamil – For seafood lovers on a price range, get your repair of shrimp tacos, grilled fish, and ceviche. There’s additionally a sports activities bar right here.
- La Cocay – This Mediterranean and Italian steakhouse has a beautiful backyard setting and serves every thing from small plates and tapas to steaks and pizza.
- La Candela – A preferred place among the many locals of Cozumel, this restaurant serves Mexican and Caribbean entrees for mid-range costs. I actually loved my expertise right here. Nice parts for decent meals within the coronary heart of city.
- Ix Kool Mayan – If you’d like true, genuine Mayan dishes, that is the place for you. The next-end restaurant, this institution serves pork panucho, cochinita and different delicacies you may be arduous pressed to search out anyplace else.
- Guido’s – A mix of seafood and Italian dishes, Guido’s gives a high quality eating expertise with open-air seating. Each the service and meals are usually excellent.
- Buccanos At Night time – Located proper on the coast, this restaurant is understood for elegant eating and beautiful dishes. You may order seafood or native dishes at Buccanos at Night time, which is taken into account by many to be the most effective locations to eat on the island.
We Need to Hear from You
What are some issues to do in Cozumel that you’d add to the listing? Tell us within the feedback beneath so everybody can profit.
