by Plalla Real Estate 
In this travel guide to Cozumel we explore the historical charms, dreamy beaches, mysterious cenotes, cozy hotels, flavorful restaurants, and exciting activities that make Cozumel a unique destination. Get ready to immerse yourself in the cultural and natural richness of this Mexican paradise.
History of San Miguel de Cozumel
The history of San Miguel de Cozumel is like an epic movie that spans centuries of exciting chapters! In the old days, the Mayans ruled the island, worshipping Ixchel, the goddess of the moon. When the Spanish arrived, Cozumel witnessed those epic encounters between ancient civilizations and European explorers.
Since then, the island has been through it all: pirate haven, thriving commercial port and, in the 20th century, became a tourist hot spot! Cozumel also had its moment in World War II, when the Mexican Navy established a base to protect the maritime routes. And now, San Miguel de Cozumel shines as a world tourist jewel. In 2023, Cozumel welcomed 1,154 cruise ships, an increase of 12.5% over the previous year.
The Best Beaches in Cozumel
Immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters of Cozumel’s most stunning beaches, where the combination of white sands and turquoise waters creates a paradisiacal setting. Whether you are looking for tranquility or fun, these beaches offer the perfect setting to create unforgettable memories under the warm Caribbean sun.
Palancar Beach
Playa Palancar is like paradise on earth surrounded by luxury hotels. Although it looks exclusive, it is a public beach with a special touch. There are restaurants and little shops selling everything from seafood to souvenirs. In addition, you can rent snorkeling equipment and even plan dives.
San Francisco Beach
Playa San Francisco in Cozumel is a white sand and blue water wonderland that breaks the bank on visits! At the Beach Club, the party is guaranteed with a restaurant bar, comfortable lounge chairs and even photo sessions to remember. They have everything from parasailing to banana rides. Ideal to get a tan, cool off with a cold drink and lose yourself in the sea.
El Cielo Beach
The beach of El Cielo in Cozumel welcomes you with crystal-clear waters and white sand, but the most astonishing sights lie beneath the surface. Immerse yourself in these serene waters, and you’ll have the unique opportunity to swim with the charming starfish that adorn the ocean floor, creating an unforgettable underwater scene. It’s an experience that blends the natural beauty of the beach with the magic of interacting with marine life, turning your visit to El Cielo into a truly special journey.
Best Cenotes in Cozumel
Chikin Ha Cenote
Located in the heart of the jungle, Cenote Chikin Ha captivates with its crystal clear waters surrounded by lush vegetation. Its diving platform and underwater rock formations make this cenote a paradise for snorkelers and divers.
Aerolito Cenote
Cenote Aerolito stands out among the 18 cenotes that adorn the island of Cozumel. Located in the old southern port known as “Caletta”, this cenote presents itself as a jewel of easy access.
Chechon Cenote
One of the most gigantic cenotes of the Island of the Swallows This natural treasure is only a few kilometers from the cozy town of El Cedral, near the area is located a circuit of two more cenotes, one of them, the Chempita that offers cruise crews trails and nature tours in jeeps and bicycles.
Best Hotels in Cozumel
Cozumel Hotel & Resort
Rest in the lap of luxury and comfort with our selection of the best hotels in Cozumel. From beachfront resorts to charming inns in the heart of town, there are options for every taste and budget.
Iberostar Cozumel Hotel
Located on the second largest coral reef in the world, this place is a true paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. It also has a lush tropical mangrove swamp that adds a touch of natural beauty to the experience.
Cozumel Palace Hotel
Beyond providing the ideal blend of quality, comfort and location, this place offers a family atmosphere with a wide range of services designed especially for travelers like you.
Best Restaurants in Cozumel
Paradise Beach Cozumel
It is a very beautiful place with spectacular customer service. The taste of the food is very good, the cocktails are very good with excellent quality products. Highly recommended for locals and international tourists.
Ix Cool
A restaurant like few others with excellent food, highly recommended. They have a menu of rich and delicious soups but the rest of the menu is excellent. The drinks are fabulous and they have a spectacular corn bread with coconut ice cream.
Fuego Restaurant Cozumel
Excellent place, small, cozy. Very good taste in the food. The service is excellent. The place has a very nice view and is very pleasant. The dishes are well served, with the seasoning of the place. Highly recommended.
The Best Activities in Cozumel
Embark on an unforgettable adventure on the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean, an authentic paradise waiting to be explored. Cozumel offers a perfect fusion of exciting water activities, nature experiences, nature and theme parks, plus a rich dose of history and culture, all designed to captivate visitors with an unparalleled variety of attractions.
Scuba Diving in Cozumel
With crystal clear waters and spectacular coral reefs, the diving here is on another level. The famous Santa Rosa wall and colorful coral gardens offer close encounters with turtles, rays and an impressive variety of tropical fish – an underwater experience you won’t forget!
Snorkeling in Cozumel
The turquoise waters allow you to observe marine life up close, from tropical fish to colorful corals. Plus, the sensation of being immersed in an aquatic heaven makes snorkeling in El Cielo a unique and magical experience.
Downtown Cozumel Tour
Downtown Cozumel is like a tourist magnet, walking around here is a feast of tourist services. It is in the only small town on the island, San Miguel, which receives lots of cool cruise ships every year. And to top it all off, the boardwalk gives you a breathtaking of oceanview, with crystal-clear, serene waters. Cozumel has that charm that makes you fall in love, whether under the sun of the day or the lights of the night.
Chankanaab National Park
A jewel in the Cozumel Reefs National Park, imagine an incredible beach and amazing reefs for diving or snorkeling. Here, the options are like a menu of wonders: eco-archaeological tour, sea lion show, swim with dolphins, spa, even a tequila tour! And that’s just the beginning. No wonder Chankanaab is the number one star in Cozumel.
San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
It is located 7 kilometers east of the current town of San Miguel de Cozumel and is easily accessible through the island’s transversal road, which is a paved road in good condition, built in 1972. Numerous travel agencies organize guided tours and the local cab service offers the tour from the main hotels in town.
The Punta Celerain Lighthouse
Discover a landscape that looks like something out of the most captivating postcards in the surroundings of the Punta Celarain lighthouse. From lagoon systems and mangroves to coastal dunes and secluded beaches, this place impresses with its diversity. Visit the small Navigation Museum inside the lighthouse, where you will also find the lighthouse keeper’s house.
All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Tour
An off-road adventure in the jungle with a taste of tequila, no matter if you are new to this or already experienced, everyone is welcome. After a quick training, you will follow a local guide on the trails. And you will also have the opportunity to meet and taste a Mexican jewel: tequila – fun, exciting and with a taste of Mexico!
Passion Island Cozumel
Isla Pasión, a little jewel of only one kilometer in the Mexican Caribbean north of Cozumel. Its unique location brings together mangroves, dwarf jungle and coral reefs, creating a paradise with unique biodiversity. A dream place where nature has it all.
Sport Fishing in Cozumel
Deep Sea Fishing
Embark on an offshore adventure in search of the big catch. Cozumel offers the opportunity to fish for marlin, tuna, and dorado. With the help of expert guides and top-of-the-line equipment, enjoy the thrill of taking on deep sea fish in a breathtaking setting. This activity is available for up to 4 people at $450 USD.
Barracuda Fishing
These fast predators offer a unique experience. Local guides know the best places to find them, giving you an action-packed, adrenaline-filled day. This activity is available from $400 USD for 4 hours of fun.
The Best Events and Festivals in Cozumel
Immerse yourself in the Caribbean joy and active essence that make Cozumel unique, where fun overflows in a variety of events, celebrations and festivities that fill the island with life throughout the year.
- Sporting events: The Half Marathon which takes place the first week of May.
- Cultural events: Some of the favorites include: The Mayan canoe pilgrimage to Cozumel Island to worship the goddess Ixchel. Enjoy the Sacred Mayan Journey during the third week of May.
- Cozumel Island Carnival: Dating back to 1874, this carnival is an explosion of color and family tradition. From the coronation of kings and queens to parades of floats and dance troupes, every detail will immerse you in the magic of this festivity. The Cozumel Carnival takes place the second week of February.
- La Feria El Cedral and La Fiesta de la Santa Cruz de Sabán: Celebrating the Santa Cruz de Sabán since 1848, these festivities offer days full of religious, gastronomic, cultural and sports activities. From artist performances to exhibitions, the El Cedral Fair is one of the oldest celebrations in Cozumel and Mexico, so get ready to experience the tradition in style in late April and early May!
Top Tips for Traveling to Cozumel
- If you want to get around Cozumel quickly and comfortably, cabs are an option, but they can be expensive. To save money, I recommend renting a motorcycle or a cheap car if you plan to stay for a few days.
- If you dare to cross to Playa del Carmen, you can get tickets at the Cozumel pier. You can go at noon and come back at night. This way you can take the opportunity to visit the famous 5th Avenue. The trip takes about 1 hour.
- Some stores in downtown Cozumel close early because most cruise ships leave the island, but restaurants and bars stay open. So if you plan to shop do it early or before 4pm.
Prices in Cozumel
Lodging
- 1 Star Hotel: around 94 USD per night – $1,605 MXN (hotels like Casita de Maya Boutique Hotel, Hotel Plaza Cozumel & Hotel Mary Carmen)
- 2 Star Hotel: around 135 USD per night – $2,305 MXN (hotels like Puerto Libre & Hotel Barracuda Cozumel)
- 3 Star Hotel: around 395 USD per night – $6,746 MXN (hotels like Occidental Cozumel & Cozumel Palace).
- 4 Star Hotel: around 444 USD per night – $7,583 MXN (hotels like Dreams Cozumel Cape Resort & Spa & Hotel B Unique)
- 5 Star Hotel: around 1,045 USD per night – $17,847 MXN (hotels like Hotel El Cozumeleño Beach Resort & InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa).
Food
- Mexican restaurant meal Economy Range: about 2 USD per person (restaurants like Guisados, Crazy King Burrito & Burritos Gorditos)
- Mexican Restaurant Meal Medium Range: about $14 USD per person (restaurants like Fuego Tapas Bar, Three Amigos &Señor Frog’s Cozumel)
- High End Mexican Restaurant Meal: around $100 USD per person (restaurants like Bajau Seafood & Steak House & Konstanz Fresh Bar & Food)
Activities
- City Activities: From $190 USD per person – $3,245 MXN (Like Private Jeep Tour & Mayan Cooking Lessons)
- Snorkel: From $62 USD per person – $1,059 MXN
- Extreme Scuba Diving: From $95 USD per person – $1,622 MXN
- ATV Adventure: From $100 USD per person – $1,708 MXN
Nightlife in Cozumel
Taboo Discoteque
Taboo Discoteque is a modern-style nightclub located in downtown Cozumel. It offers a wide variety of music, from electronic music to Latin music. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and the disco is open late into the night.
Señor Frog’s:
This is an iconic and lively place in Cozumel. Señor Frog’s is known for its festive atmosphere, live music, DJs, contests and fun drinks. It offers a lively and fun experience for visitors looking for a fun-filled night out.
Money Bar
If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere overlooking the sea, Money Bar is an excellent choice. It offers delicious cocktails, quiet music and a breathtaking view of the ocean. It is an ideal place to relax, enjoy drinks and chat in a quieter, more scenic setting.
Theme Parks in Cozumel
Explore the fun at Cozumel’s theme parks. From water parks to zoos, the island offers entertainment for all ages.
Corn Town
A pre-Hispanic park that mixes theater, Mayan culture and ancestral traditions. A tour where you can see how chicle was extracted in a chicle camp and witness the purification ritual at the Pueblo del Maíz, all connected by the magical sacred ceiba tree. A unique experience that unites history, music and dance.
Cuzam Ecopark Cozumel
Its name means place of swallows in Mayan, it used to be a nursery, so the environment is super ecological. Here, the whole family has a great time with zip lines, horses, gotcha, ATVs, swimming pools, sports courts and even a palapa for events. Natural fun guaranteed!
Mia Beach Club Day Pass Cozumel
A beach with a great variety of activities and white sand. This Cozumel beach park offers more than 20 activities, such as swimming pools, a floating obstacle course and whirlpools. There are several options to choose from, such as an open buffet, open bar and a place with an umbrella and towel. A large beach park for both adults and children with access to all facilities for a full day.
Chankanaab National Park
Located on the south coast of Cozumel Island. Since its decree as a National Park in 1980, it has become a special sanctuary for the protection and conservation of the rich flora and fauna of the region.
The name “Chankanaab” comes from Mayan, where “Chan” means small and “Kanaab” translates as ocean or sea. The lagoon, which houses mystical vestiges of ancient Mayan civilizations, is the heart of the park, adding a touch of mystery to this paradisiacal corner.
How to Get to and Around Cozumel
When comparing Cozumel to Isla Mujeres on the map, where the golf cart reigns supreme, you’ll notice that Cozumel follows a different story. The advantage lies in the various options for exploring the island: rent a car, a scooter, a bicycle or use the cab service.
Bicycle
Although the idea of pedaling by the beautiful sea is tempting, you should be aware of the considerable distances. For example, from the Allegro hotel to downtown is 30 km in one direction only. After a day full of water activities, biking may not be the most convenient option. However, if you are an experienced cyclist, you can find places like Rent a Bike Cozumel in downtown Cozumel, offering rates from around $200 MXN per day.
Cab
Cabs are an option, although you should be aware that they can be expensive, and fares vary depending on the area of the island you are going to. For example, from the airport to Hotel Allegro, one of the farthest hotels, the cost is approximately $565 MXN. You can also opt for a shuttle from the airport, at a cost of $150 MXN per person.
Car or scooter rental
One of the best ways to get around and explore Cozumel is by renting a car or scooter, and you will find numerous places in the center that offer these services. If you are traveling with family or children, the car option provides more comfort.
Safety in Cozumel
The people of Cozumel are known for their hospitality and friendliness, creating a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. The center of the island, known as San Miguel de Cozumel, is particularly safe, with cobblestone streets that invite carefree strolling. Tourist destinations, such as beaches and natural parks, also have security measures in place to ensure pleasant experiences.
It is advisable to take standard precautions, such as taking care of valuables and respecting local indications, to ensure a smooth visit. Overall, Cozumel offers a unique balance between the thrill of exploration and the peace of mind of knowing you are in a safe environment.
Weather in Cozumel
The weather in Cozumel is a symphony of sunshine and mildness that captivates visitors year-round. Located in the Mexican Caribbean, the island enjoys a tropical climate that makes every day an invitation to enjoy under clear skies and warm temperatures.
The months of November through February offer a refreshing respite with more moderate temperatures, ideal for exploring the island’s natural wealth. Spring brings lush blooms, while summer shines brightly, offering sun-filled days perfect for soaking in the crystal-clear waters.
CONCLUSION
Cozumel is a destination that offers much more than dreamy beaches. Immerse yourself in its rich history, delight your senses with the local gastronomy, and embark on exciting aquatic adventures. Plan your trip with our Cozumel travel guide to visit the best beaches, do the best activities, stay in the best hotels, etc. Discover why Cozumel is a Mexican paradise you must explore.
The starfish at El Cielo Beach are pretty enough to melt anyone’s heart. Did they get to you?
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