Enjoy the island lifestyle of the Caribbean, explore the underwater world or visit Mayan ruins and old Mexican villages at the island of Cozumel. With over 2 million visitors annually, Cozumel is one of the country’s major tourist attractions. The main reason for this is the abundance of marine life. Pet sting rays and get a kiss from a dolphin, or watch sea turtles come to shore.
While being just 30 miles (48 kilometers) long and 10 miles (16 kilometers) wide, Cozumel is actually Mexico’s largest Caribbean island. It’s situated in the Yucatan region, about 11 miles (17.7 kilometers) off Playa del Carmen on the east coast. Cozumel is the gateway to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the largest reef system in the Americas, which attracts hundreds of tropical fish species and marine mammals. The island offers stunning beaches and San Miguel, a town on the western shore, is packed with restaurants and nightlife.
Book an ocean adventure, such as scuba diving, kite surfing, snorkeling, parasailing or fishing. Swim with dolphins or other marine mammals at Dolphin Discovery in Chankanaab National Park. Scuba divers should not miss the famous Palancar Caves. For some culture, visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio and the historic town of El Cedral.
Special events are mainly held during the busy summer months or on special Mexican religious days. Sea turtle workshops, fishing and golf tournaments and Carnaval Cozumel are just some of the yearly crowd pleasers.
The climate is warm all year-round. Come between December and March for the best weather but note that it rains a lot in September and October.
A frequent ferry service runs between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen and planes depart Cancun several times a day. Cozumel even has an international airport. Getting around is easiest by car, which you can rent at the airport and San Miguel.
With its abundance of beaches, reefs and culture, Cozumel is a dream destination. If you appreciate seeing special marine life and enjoy Caribbean nightlife, visit this Mexican island paradise.
Where to stay in Cozumel
Zona Hotelera Norte
If you're spending some time in Zona Hotelera Norte, Playa San Juan and Villa Maya are top sights worth seeing.
Colonia Centro
While visiting Colonia Centro, you might make a stop by sights like Cozumel Maritime Terminal and Punta Langosta Pier.
Colonia Andrés
While there might not be top attractions in Colonia Andrés, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Punta Langosta Pier and Cozumel Maritime Terminal.
Colonos Cuzamil
When in Colonos Cuzamil, you can plan a visit to Punta Langosta Pier and Stingray Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Colonia Adolfo López Mateos
While there might not be top attractions in Colonia Adolfo López Mateos, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Cozumel Maritime Terminal and Punta Langosta Pier.
San Miguel I
When in San Miguel I, you can plan a visit to Stingray Beach and Punta Langosta Pier, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Reviewed on May 30, 2024
Reviewed on May 27, 2024
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Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on Mar. 30, 2024
Popular places to visit
Mr. Sancho's Beach Club
Enjoy an outing to Mr. Sancho's Beach Club during your stay in Cozumel. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park
Bring the family to Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park and enjoy the excitement of this theme park in Cozumel. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Paradise Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Paradise Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Cozumel. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Chankanaab National Park
Mayan ruins, Caribbean beaches, ancient health therapies and spectacular dining and diving; some of the best features of the Riviera Maya are at this island park.
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
Bring your family to Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park and enjoy the excitement of this amusement park in Cozumel. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area, or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Cozumel Maritime Terminal
Explore the waterfront in San Miguel with a trip to Cozumel Maritime Terminal.
Things to do
Beach Break® at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park
Ultimate Cozumel Island Tour - Best Sights & Mayan Experience
Cozumel Buggy Tour: Snorkeling & Lunch
Reviews of Cozumel
5/5 - Excellent
We loved the freedom of going to town and walking and feeling safe. I went shopping by myself and was quite comfortable. Great food and restaurants in town which was a short taxi ride or a 15 min walk.
5/5 - Excellent
I thought the island was really nice, it was very calm and safe. The beaches were beautiful, we really enjoyed the snorkelling. The staff was amazing so so friendly and helpful! The rooms were great really unique and very clean, food was awesome!
5/5 - Excellent
golfed each day at Cozumel Golf Club!!
3/5 - Okay
Went on a diving trip: reef is VERY damaged its heartbreaking. Too many cruiseships are killing it. huge difference with 2 years ago when I was there.
4/5 - Good
Best to get out of town, lots of cruise ships, so the venders are super aggressive.
3/5 - Okay
This time didn't go to town.
- Mr. Sancho's Beach Club
- Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park
- Paradise Beach
- Chankanaab National Park
- Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
- Palancar Beach
- Isla de Pasion
- Punta Sur Ecological Park
- Nachi Cocom Beach Club & Water Sport Center
- San Francisco Beach
- Stingray Beach
- Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park
- Chen Rio Beach
- Villa Blanca Reef