With its stunning natural setting of paradisiacal beaches and crystal clear waters, the island of Cozumel Mexico is sure to leave you speechless. Being one of the most popular places for diving enthusiasts and tourists alike, Cozumel has become an idyllic destination.
Located in the east of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, Cozumel has always been considered as a seafaring town. Nowadays it is one of the most popular destinations of the Riviera Maya and the third largest island in Mexico. Here, you can enjoy peace and breathtaking landscapes. Are you going to miss it?
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Things to see and do in Cozumel Mexico
San Gervasio Archaeological Zone
Although you will find many archaeological sites around Cozumel, we definitely recommend a visit to the most important archaeological site: San Gervasio.
In ancient times, this archaeological site honoured the goddess Chel, one of the most important deities of the Mayan culture. Inside this archaeological site you will find some of the most emblematic monuments, such as the Casa Alta. Also, el Arco or Las Manitas, which in ancient times formed part of the house of the Lord Itza of Cozumel.
Molas Point
Named after the famous 19th century military man, Miguel Molas. This point is considered the easternmost point of the Mexican Republic.
In addition to breathtaking views, the most characteristic elements of this point are the slender lighthouse that stands at the foot of the sea. Moreover, the famous Caracol Tomb, an archaeological jewel of Cozumel. We recommend you to access this place with an all-terrain vehicle due to its complicated terrain.
Chankanaab
Chankanaab is a beautiful eco-park located just 10 kilometres from the centre of the island, and is a must-see on your trip to Cozumel. Besides being a sanctuary for all kinds of marine species, this place is quite an adventure.
There is plenty to do in this park, from strolling along the beautiful trails where you can learn about Mesoamerican cultures, to snorkelling or enjoying a sea lion show. You can book a tour of the park with lunch and open bar included. Can you think of a better plan?
Chiqueros Point
Punta Chiqueros is a beach located in the southwest of the island, being one of the most uninhabited areas of Cozumel. It can be the perfect place to visit if you feel like losing sight of civilisation for a while.
Besides being endowed with a certain wild and unspoilt atmosphere, this beach offers a long walk along its soft sands and you can even take a dip in its waters. It is mainly characterised by its crescent shape and, although it is not a touristy place. Here, you will have the option of stopping for lunch after your visit at a small restaurant in the area.
Cozumel Carnival
The Cozumel Carnival, one of the best known events in the whole country of Mexico, is considered one of the best festivals in the state of Quintana Roo. It takes place at the San Miguel Carnival Palace.
This event is characterised by its massive dances and the parades that take place in the streets with people dressed in costumes and riding on impressive floats. The costumes of the participants usually mix modern designs with ancestral traditions. It creates a very characteristic combination, a festivity not to be missed on your trip to Cozumel!
Passion Island
Passion Island is a small island just a short distance from Cozumel. Besides offering a beautiful and extensive beach of white sands and turquoise waters, this territory is part of the Natural Protected Area of Cozumel.
As its name suggests, this highly touristic spot is often chosen by couples in love who want to celebrate their wedding in an undeniably romantic setting. Endowed with a practically virgin landscape, on this island you not only have a beach to stroll along, but you can also lose yourself in its beautiful wooded areas. A tropical paradise.
Palancar Beach
Located southwest of Cozumel, Playa Palancar is one of the most frequented and at the same time one of the most peaceful beaches in the area. Characterised by its extensive area of white sand, it is the ideal place to spend a morning enjoying the sun.
Besides being endowed with breathtaking views of turquoise waters, this sea is the perfect place for lovers of aquatic activities, such as scuba diving or snorkelling. In these waters you will find hidden an infinity of marine species. Or if you prefer, you can always take a pleasant stroll along the seashore.
Cedral Fair
The Cedral Fair is one of the most important traditional festivals in Cozumel, and it takes place in a small village located in the south of the island.
Originating in honour of the Holy Cross, this fair is held during late April and early May, including the day of Santa Cruz. Cultural activities such as bullfighting and musical events make for an authentic Mexican-style festivity – don’t miss it!
Cozumel Reefs National Park
The Cozumel Reefs National Park is part of the well-known Great Mayan Reef, being, no more and no less, the largest barrier reef in the Americas after Oceania.
During your visit to this small area you will be able to see numerous species, both marine and terrestrial, most of them in danger of extinction. It is the ideal place for those who love the sea and the animals of this family. You will be able to enjoy a completely unique place and experience.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What to do in Cozumel Mexico in one day for free?
Mirador del Oriente Viewpoint
Located on the Punta Sur stretch, the Mirador del Oriente is one of the many lookout points you can find along the island of Cozumel. This simple wooden infrastructure offers views that will leave you speechless.
It is the ideal place to stop for a while and rest after a long day of sightseeing, especially at sunset if you want to enjoy the unbeatable scenery. Being in a fairly uninhabited area of the island, this place is endowed with an incomparable tranquillity, so don’t forget to bring your camera!
Celarain Lighthouse
This well-known lighthouse, built in 1901, is today a museum visited by more than 300 people a day.
With a climb of no less than 133 steps, you’ll feel it was well worth it when you reach the top. The panoramic views of the entire island from this structure are truly photo-worthy. From the top you’ll be able to see the imposing Colombia lagoon system, as well as much of the Caribbean Sea. You won’t regret it.
Chen Rio Beach
One element that makes Playa Chen Rio a very special place is its natural pool format hidden among rocks. This place is located east of Cozumel.
With no hotel infrastructure nearby, this beach tends to be a fairly quiet spot on the island, making it the ideal place to escape the crowds. In addition to its extraordinary waters and white sand, this beach offers exceptional scenery. You’ll also be able to find a little stall where you can have a cool drink. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Monument to the Diver
Diving is the most preferred and practised aquatic activity in Cozumel, to such an extent that it represents a totally representative element. That is why the island has a monument exclusively dedicated to this sport: the Monument to the Diver.
Located at the San Miguel pier, this monument is one of the most touristic points of Cozumel and honours both the marine world and divers. In addition, we recommend you go to see this structure at sunset. Also, the fountain on top of it is in operation and the views of the sea in the background are truly incredible.
San Miguel Church of Cozumel
Cozumel has much more to offer than just beaches and crystal clear waters. In the centre of the island you will find several elements of great historical and cultural value. In addition, among all of them is the Church of San Miguel.
With a colonial style, this is a religious infrastructure. Despite its small dimensions, this church is undoubtedly welcoming. Although its structure is not old, the place has a strong historical value. Moreover, the altar inside is the original one that dates back to the most ancient times. A place not to be missed.
Where to stay in Cozumel Mexico?
Depending on your budget and your style of travel, in Cozumel you can choose between different accommodation options according to your interests and needs.
If you are looking for cheaper places to stay, you can opt for one of these options:
- Hotel Posada Edem, just 250 metres from the ferry. In addition, it has numerous cultural points of interest and entertainment at your fingertips.
- Hotel Mary Carmen, with a characteristic vintage style. It is a family-run hotel located in the heart of Cozumel and close to the port of Cozumel, with easy access to the ferry. Moreover, the price for a room is 35€/night for two people.
- OYO Hostelito, a small hotel in a great location at an unbeatable price of €18/night for two people.
If you’re looking for more luxurious accommodation, you can opt for one of these options:
- Cozumel Palace is a hotel that offers all the facilities and impeccable service in an exceptional location. Moreover, you can get a room for up to 4 people with an all inclusive package for 300€/night.
- Casa Mexicana is a 4 star hotel located just a short walk from the tax pier. Also, it is only a 10 minute drive from the airport. The price for a room is 95€/night for two people.
Frequently Asked Questions
To get to Cozumel, you must first take a plane from Spain. You can depart from Madrid Airport (MAD) and fly to Cancun International Airport (CUN). Once there, you will have to go to Playa del Carmen and from there take a ferry to get to the island of Cozumel, which takes about 40 minutes.
– You can take a taxi to get around Cozumel, but this is always the most expensive option.
– Also, you can take an ADO bus, but this only travels around the town of San Miguel de Cozumel, not to the beaches or tourist attractions outside. The fare is $5 MXN each way (equivalent to €0.21).
– The most convenient and cost-effective option is to rent a car from companies such as Ace or Blueway. Rates are usually around $500 MXN/day (equivalent to about €20).
The best time to travel to Cozumel to enjoy the good weather and outdoor activities is from early December to mid-March.
Assuming that no tourist destination can be 100% safe, Cozumel is a proven safe place to travel as long as you take the usual precautions: don’t go alone in deserted areas or carry valuables or large amounts of money in busy areas.
The price of your trip to Cozumel will depend on your budget, the time of year you travel, the length of your trip, the type of accommodation, food and activities you choose to do.
– If you have a low budget, you can do a two-week trip to Cozumel with round-trip flights for €500, cheap accommodation of about €15/night per person, free activities, public transport (about €1 total) and a reduced price per person for food (about €5). In total, your trip would cost around €800 for two weeks.
The usual price for a ferry to Cozumel is around 400$ MXN (equivalent to around 16€).
How to plan your itinerary of places to see in Cozumel Mexico?
Download the Passporter app and plan your trip in the most organised way and according to the days and places you want to see in Cozumel Mexico.
With the app you can:
- First, be inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
- Then save valuable information about the destinations you want to visit that you have found on the internet. Just install the Chrome extension and save everything useful for your trip.
- Later, save your tickets and reservations.
- Also, organise your route on google maps with your accommodation as the starting point or any other that you indicate.
- Finally, save and publish as you go your own photos and experiences in each of the places.
If you are interested in learning more about how to use and get the most out of the Passporter app, you can read our post: How to create a travel itinerary on Passporter.
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