Cozumel is an island and municipality in the Caribbean Sea off the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, opposite Playa del Carmen. It is separated from the mainland by Cozumel Channel and is close to the Yucatán Channel. The municipality is part of the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico.
18 pictures of Cozumel from Clem Onojeghuo, Caleb George, Vlad Tchompalov and other travelers
To get to Cozumel, you can either fly directly into Cozumel International Airport or fly to Cancun and take a bus or taxi to Playa del Carmen, followed by a ferry ride to Cozumel. Ferries run frequently throughout the day and take about 45 minutes to reach the island.
It's a good idea to book your accommodations and any guided tours or excursions in advance to ensure availability, especially during the high season (November to April). If you plan on scuba diving or taking part in any other water activities, it's also wise to reserve your spots ahead of time.
The costs of a trip to Cozumel can vary depending on the season and your preferences. Budget travelers can find hostels and local eateries at affordable prices, while luxury seekers can indulge in high-end resorts and gourmet restaurants. Expect to pay around $50-$150 per night for mid-range accommodations and $20-$60 for daily meals and activities.
The best things to do in Cozumel include exploring the island's incredible coral reefs, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. Popular dive spots include Palancar Reef and Columbia Reef. You can also visit the Chankanaab National Park, where you can relax on the beach, swim with dolphins, or explore botanical gardens. For a taste of history, visit the San Gervasio Mayan ruins or the Cozumel Museum.
When it comes to dining, Cozumel offers a blend of authentic Mexican cuisine and international options. Guido's is a popular choice for Italian dishes, while El Moro offers traditional Mexican fare with a homey atmosphere. For seafood lovers, try La Perlita, known for its fresh fish dishes and ceviche.
For accommodations, consider staying at the Fiesta Americana Cozumel, an all-inclusive resort with a private beach, multiple pools, and several dining options. For a more intimate experience, check out the boutique hotel Casa Mexicana Cozumel, which features modern rooms and a rooftop pool. Budget travelers can opt for the Amigos Hostel Cozumel, a friendly and affordable option near the city center.
Off the beaten path:
For a truly unique experience, venture to the less-visited east side of the island, known as the "wild side" of Cozumel. This area is characterized by its rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and lack of development. Rent a car or scooter and take a scenic drive along the coastal road to discover hidden gems like El Mirador, a natural rock formation that offers stunning views of the ocean, and Chen Rio, a serene beach with calm waters perfect for swimming. This part of the island offers a glimpse into the untouched beauty of Cozumel and is perfect for those seeking a more laid-back and adventurous experience.
27 km away
Xcaret Park is a privately owned and operated theme park, resort and self-described ecotourism development located in the Riviera Maya, a portion of the Caribbean coastline of Mexico's state of Quintana Roo.
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Xcaret is a Maya civilization archaeological site located on the Caribbean coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico.
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Discover the underwater world of Mexico without swimming. With this sea trek experience in central Cozumel, everyone can explore the ocean floor. Put on an astronaut-style helmet, descend beneath the waves, and stroll along the white sandy seabed surrounded by Cozumel's marine life. Expert guides will ensure a safe and fascinating expedition. The underwater escapade lasts 25 to 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the sights below the surface.
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Playa del Carmen is a city located along the Caribbean Sea in the municipality of Solidaridad, in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is a popular tourist area in eastern Mexico. Playa del Carmen features a wide array of tourist activities due to its geographical location in the Riviera Maya. It has also been the destination of PGA Tour golf tournaments and the set location for various television shows. The town has one of the fastest-growing populations in Mexico.
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Tlacotepec de Benito Juárez is a town and municipality in Puebla in south-eastern Mexico.
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Solidaridad is one of the eleven municipalities that make up the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Its municipal seat is the town of Playa del Carmen. Solidaridad is home to the Maya archaeological site of Xcaret.
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The Riviera Maya is a tourism and resort district south of Cancun, Mexico. It straddles the coastal Federal Highway 307, along the Caribbean coastline of the state of Quintana Roo, located in the eastern portion of the Yucatán Peninsula.
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Puerto Morelos is a town and seaport in Quintana Roo, Mexico's easternmost state, on the Yucatán Peninsula. The town is located in the northeast of the state, about 36 km south of the resort city of Cancún, and about 30 km north of the city of Playa del Carmen.
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Akumal is a small beach-front tourist resort community in Mexico, 100 km south of Cancún, between the towns of Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
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In Cozumel, you will find a wide variety of stores where you can buy souvenirs to take home; remember that Mexico, in general, is characterized by its craftsmanship, and you can acquire beautiful and colorful fabrics that showcase the country's cultural diversity.
Their handmade items are among our highest recommendations, and you can take them home as a souvenir of your happy stay in Cozumel.
Being a Mexican and Caribbean destination, Cozumel offers a great gastronomic variety resulting from the mixture of indigenous and European flavors, which also characterize the cuisine of Quintana Roo. If you travel to Cozumel, you must try their culinary specialties based on fish and seafood, such as snapper, lobster, and snail, all seasoned with various spices and peppers.
We recommend you try some of Cozumel's most popular restaurants, including Kees Mi Cactus, Kareoqui, Neptuno, and Sr. Frogs.
Cozumel is a beautiful island
Totally recommended, spectacular for snorkeling and diving, beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, has one of the 3 largest coral reefs in the world,
we recommend it 100%.
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