Find out All the Things To Do in Cozumel, Mexico on Caribbean Cruises

Cozumel Island is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the Caribbean. The reason for this island as the top choice among the cruisers is because of plentiful things to do in Cozumel.

Cozumel is Mexico’s premier resort island in the Caribbean. The beach experiences, snorkelling and scuba diving are truly incredible. It’s no doubt that over 3 million people are visiting Cozumel annually. (source)

Are you cruising to Cozumel? You may be looking for some information on what to do in Cozumel, Mexico.

The problem is that there is so much information about things to do in Cozumel, Mexico out there. It is not easy to find what is best to do in Cozumel.

Most cruise ships are generally disembarking for 8-12 hours on the island. You stay in Cozumel within a limited period of time. Then it is very important for you to take some time and plan what to do in Cozumel right now.

In this article, you will find all the activities and visiting places in Cozumel. I stayed in Cozumel for a month and visited the island for the Caribbean cruises. Let me introduce you to all the great things about Cozumel!

You can save money and time by reading this article. Each idea on Cozumel things to do is categorised by topics. This way help you pick up the right ones for your next cruising to Mexico. Find out the top things to do in Cozumel!

Things To Do in Cozumel

Cozumel is largely covered with the mangrove wild forest. It has a jungle with rich Mayan ruins. Many endemic animal species still exist. The turquoise clear waters with white sandy beaches attract more than millions of visitors around the world.

Before you leave for the Caribbean cruise, check out whether you have got your snorkelling gear with you. How about sunscreen and bug repellant? They are must items. Check out things to do on a cruise to Cozumel.

You may fly off to Florida and get on the ship at the Miami Cruise Port for a Caribbean cruise. Then find out more information on Miami. Book your cruise hotels near the Port of Miami with shuttle and Airport transfer.

Or find out more information on Cozumel.

OUTDOOR & ADVENTURE

1. Customise Private Jeep Tour

One of the most popular things to do in Cozumel can be hiring a private jeep. It’s 5-6 hour private tour of the island. You can organise the best-personalised all-inclusive tour in Cozumel.

So where would you like to go with the fully customised tour and with a private jeep? No idea?

Then, keep reading! You will find the best things to do in Cozumel, Mexico.

2. Get Underwater with Seatrek

Cozumel is well known as one of the best places for scuba diving in the world. But you may not have a scuba diving licence.

No problem.

You can have a walk and explore underwater at Chankaab Park. A trick is that you wear a special helmet on your shoulder. There is a continuous flow of air inside. It allows you to breathe with ease. You do not need carrying a heavy water tank, metal weights and scuba diving jacket. It’s the most comfortable way to meet tropical fish and sea animals!

3. Take The Atlantis XII Submarine

Don’t you think submarine expedition is adventures? Why not? It’s Cozumel. It’s one of the world’s most beautiful places. You may want to have an underwater experience but without a swimming suit.

It’s only here in Cozumel where you can have a submarine experience in Mexico. The Atlantis XII is Mexico’s only submarine, designed for tourists. The submarine can go deeper than 100 feet (over 30 meters) underwater. You can go underwater with your family or loved one.

The good thing is that you can communicate and share feeling in the underwater. That is something you cannot do in scuba diving.

4. Find Tropical Nature at Xcaret

One of the most popular excursion from Cozumel can be the eco-archaeological wonderland, Xcaret. It’s a 200-Acre theme park. There are more than 50 natural and cultural attractions. You can also explore and swim in underground rivers.

Find out coral reef aquarium and a butterfly pavilion. Make sure that you have plenty of time to visit Xcaret. It’s a full-day excursion. You can find a ferry to Playa del Carmen from Cozumel. 

5. Chase Stingray at a Beach

Do you know you can play with stingrays in Cozumel? There is the stingray beach near Cozumel cruise port. You can chase and swim with stingrays.

Stingray Beach has been well known among the cruisers. It has been a popular Cozumel excursion at Carnival. It’s safe. There are dedicated staffs and experts there to swim with you. You can also enjoy snorkeling right off the beach.

Find out more information for the beaches near beaches in Cozumel near the cruise port at Best Cozumel Beaches.

6. Swim with Dolphin in Cozumel

In Cozumel, it is possible to have an incredible marine life.

One of the best things to do in Cozumel is you can meet and swim with dolphins at the Chankanaab National Park.

It is unbelievable how sweet and friendly they are to us. They give you a hug, kiss, belly ride or even a foot push.

7. Play with Sea Lions

I have introduced you where to meet and become friend with stingrays and dolphins. Cozumel can offer much more. You can meet sea lions and manatees at Chankanaab National Reef Park. This is one of the popular Royal Caribbean shore excursions.

8. Enjoy Ha Haak Paddleboarding

Experiencing the sea is not only underwater. You can move forward the water surface with a paddleboarding. It’s one of the popular water sports in Cozumel. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Cozumel. It is fun and easy watersport anyone can enjoy. “Ha’Haak” means in Maya slip or slide over the water, where ha means water and haak slip. (source)

9. Try Horseback Riding in Cozumel

Cozumel is not only for beaches and water sports but you can enjoy horseback riding. Join the tour. You can choose either to go to the jungle or the oldest city on the island. The Mayan ruins and on the beach are also a good choice. Some tours include hidden gems of Cozumel such as a Mayan cave and El Cedral.

Or Mr Sanchos will provide a whole day service at their premiere beach club after the horseback riding on the beach. (source) Hoseback riding is actually one fo the popular beach excursions.

10. Visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Punta Sur Ecological Park is one of Cozumel’s main natural attractions.

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of nature from the top of Punta Celarain Lighthouse.

This Cozumel lighthouse features a spectacular 360-degree view of the island. Cozumel is a flat island. You can see the entire Cozumel Island and appreciate its rich natural reserve. After visiting the small nautical museum, head over to the mangroves and lagoons.

11. Renting a Scooter in Cozumel 

Discover another side of Cozumel by a scooter. You can get away from the crowd and commercial areas. Cross the coastal road of Cozumel Island and get the East Coast. You will find beautiful Playa Chen Rio and Playa Bonita beaches. Don’s forget to pop into Coconuts Bar, my favourite Cozumel bar, before Playa Chen Rio.

12. Pop into El Mirador

When you get the East Coast by scooter, do not forget to visit El Mirador.

The crushing waves sculptured an arch in the rocks by taking many years.

You can climb to the top and find stunning views. There is no crowed but only the powerful sounds of waves crashing against the rocks. Feel the atmosphere and become one with nature. Feel nature. It’s a free thing to do in Cozumel.

13. Sailing with a Catamaran

A company, Fury Catamarans, has two 65-foot catamarans. Find Cozumel’s beautiful posts of the reef for snorkeling. Enjoy onboard lounge and bar on the catamaran. Pick up margarita, cocktails or beer from the bar. Fury Catamarans will take you to their private beach. You can enjoy kayak, beach parties or relaxing in a hammock. Maximise your day in Cozumel!

14. Add Chankanaab Park on the List

Chankanaab is one of the popular Cozumel attractions for any ages. Take an eco-archaeological tour, see sea lion shows and meet manatees as I have introduced previously. It is one of the popular visiting places in Cozumel. Chankanaab is located just 10 minutes away from the cruise ship terminal by taxi.

15. Swim with Whale Sharks

Whale sharks are the largest species in the world. The average size is more than 30ft. It is named shark but they are not carnivals. Whale sharks are filter feeders and eat plankton and krill. They will not bite you.

It is a life-changing experience to encounter the animals which are much larger than you. It is overwhelming indeed to swim with them due to its gigantic size and elegant swim.

This incredible tour is available for a short period of time. You can join a tour when whale sharks are around the Yucatan Peninsula about 70 miles (110km) from Cozumel.

16. Discover Mexico Park Cozumel

Enjoy making your own chocolate bar. Join one of the most popular Cozumel tequila tours. Discover Mexico Park Cozumel is a Mexican cultural theme park.

Do you know the brightly coloured Mexican handcrafts, Alebrijes? You can learn the history and technique in carving and painting the mythical creatures and animals.

17. Play Golf in a Jungle

If you are a golfer, you have to play at Cozumel Country Club. It will be an unusual experience. You are not only playing but are exploring nature at the same time. Get into a beautiful jungle surrounding the golf club. It’s a wonderful experience you never had before. The golf club is located in the island’s north shore. It features the 18 holes of great golf courses.

18. Hire a Local Taxi Driver

Hiring a driver for hours is very common among cruisers in Cozumel. Relax and make yourself comfortable on a seat. This is also the way to save money instead of joining the cruise lines’ excursions in Cozumel. The taxi drivers are an expert tour guide. They will take you the best places to visit and explore.

WATER SPORTS

19. Discover Cozumel by Scuba Diving

I am a NAUI licenced scuba diver, experienced more than 300 scuba diving sites around the world. I tell you Cozumel is one of the best I ever experienced. It’s awesome! The sea in Cozumel is so dynamic and full of life.

Cozumel diving conditions are:

• Water Temperature: Averages 25°C/77°F in the winter and 29°C/85°F in summer. Scuba diving is possible throughout a year.
• Visibility: Consistently 80-100 feet (24-30 meters)
• Depth Range: 10 – 40m (33 – 131 ft)

The best scuba diving in Cozumel can be found on the north and the south of the west coast. There are countless great diving sports in Cozumel, and here are my favourites:

Columbia Deep

You will find beautiful tropical fish and sea animals on the huge coral formations. The visibility is enhanced. It is a popular scuba diving site because it is easy to get in.

Palancar Reef

It’s no double that Palancer Reef is one of the most popular scuba diving sites in Cozumel. Geographic shapes and landscapes are incredible. You will find a big structure with many tunnels and swim-throughs.

Barracuda Reef

This scuba diving site is located in the north of the West Coast. You can expect large marine fish due to the strong currents including migratory fish, pelagics, rays and barracuda. It is the site for advanced scuba divers.

20. Have Snorkeling in Cozumel

The Cozumel scuba diving scene is vibrant, lively and incredibly colourful. Soft and hard corals vary. If you are lucky, you can see not only colourful tropical fish but also turtles and rays without scuba diving.

The greatness of snorkeling in Cozumel is that the reef is close to the land. In Cozumel, you can get the reef off the beach without a boat.

There are a lot of snorkeling tours, but you can save money if you go to the safe and slow current reef by yourself. You can then buy snorkeling gear and use them without renting. Plan Cozumel excursions on your own before you leave home. Have the best Cozumel snorkeling.

21. Best Coral Reef Snorkeling

Cozumel is home for over 500 fish species. (source) The best place for snorkeling is usually not white sandy but rocky beaches. Colourful tropical fish and sea animals inhabit the limestone beaches and a range of hard coral sport.

Best coral reef snorkeling sites are:

Playa Palancar

One of the most popular beaches for snorkeling in Cozumel can be Palaya Palancar. You can reach Palancar Reef off the beach. You can experience world-class snorkeling without a boat. Combining snorkeling with white sandy beach is possible. Palancar Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cozumel.

Playa Coral

It is one of the most well-known places probably because of its fame among scuba divers. It is not a white sandy beach but limestone beach with a lot of colourful tropical fish. The visibility of the water is incredible. Playa Coral is the place to enjoy coral reef snorkeling.

Sunset Beach

If you are looking for the place for snorkeling near the cruise port, Sunset Beach is the best. You can combine shopping or meals in downtown San Miguel and snorkeling. Go to the beach and start snorkeling right off the beach!

22. Visit the Money Bar Cozumel

Dazu Ha is well known as one of the best places for Cozumel snorkeling. Money Bar Beach Club is located in such a best snorkeling site. The beach club is located near the port.

You can enjoy world-class snorkeling off the beach and without a boat! Find a lot of tropical fishes, hard corals and colourful sea animals. After great snorkeling experience, enjoy meals and drinks at Money Bar Beach Club.

23. Be Ready for Sport Fishing

Cozumel is one of the premier fishing destinations in the world. You can enjoy bottom fishing by dropping your line at closer to shore. But you will be in Cozumel. Why not? You can try sport fishing (deep-sea fishing).

You can get to the place further away from the island. This is normally done by a chartered boat. The best way is to join a deep fishing tour. It normally takes around 6 to 8 hours for the tour.

24. Go Kayaking

Move across on the crystal clear water surface by kayaking. If you rent a glass kayak, you can see underwater too. Kayaking is fun. You are sitting on a low-to-the-water. So that while you float on the water, you can go ahead and back in the beautiful surrounding landscapes by paddling.

Have a safe and fun time with a kayak! The beach clubs normally offer rental kayaks. The currents are quieter on the West Coast beaches. Find out your kayak there!

25. Jump into the Sky with Parasailing

Go up from the water and stay in the sky. Parasailing is one of the popular water sports activities in Cozumel. If you lie down on a beach, you find parasailing often. They are behind a motorboat on the sky over the beach. Parasailing must give you a wonderful feeling. You are in the sky, surrounded by incredible landscapes of Cozumel. Parasailing is one of the adventurous things to do in Cozumel.

BEACH CLUB

As soon as you disembarked at Cozumel port, the island’s great beach clubs are all within a short distance. Whether or not which terminals your ship docks, it is easy to pick up a taxi and head straight to a beach you desire. The day pass normally costs from around $50. It includes all-day access including unlimited food, drinks and alcohols.

Enjoy all inclusive beach in Cozumel. The beach clubs facilities are usually lounge, bars, water playgrounds, beaches, shower rooms and many more. Some beach clubs also offer water sports activities. You will find out snorkeling, parasailing and horseback riding.

The problem is in selecting which beaches you pick up. Enjoy Cozumel day resorts. Here I introduce you Cozumel’s top beach clubs.

26. Paradise Beach Cozumel

The most common images for Cozumel beaches can be a white sandy line along transparent blue waters. If you dream of such a beach, you will be delighted at Paradise Beach.

Paradise Beach Cozumel is one of the most popular beach clubs among the family cruisers. You will find a lot of children at this beach club.

The Fun Pass includes snorkel equipment, kayaks, stand-up paddle and the toys in the water park, in Cozumel. Kids will especially enjoy the water park with slides and trampolines. Climbing ice-berg and beach floats are also popular.

27. Go to Mr Sanchos

Mr Sanchos Beach Club is for any ages in Cozumel. It is probably the most popular beach clubs among the cruisers in Cozumel. The white sand coastline is well maintained. It is one of the best beaches on Cozumel.

Mr Sanchos is also one of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast in Cozumel. The calm waters hit against the powdery white sandy beach. The pine trees make shades, making you comfortable and relaxed.

The day pass includes delicious meals and alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. You can use the facilities including swimming pools, loungers and a water playground.

28. Playa Mia

Water sports are rich in Playa Mia Grand Beach Park. You can enjoy kayaks, parasailing and wave runners. Have fun with the twin 200-foot long water-sliders and the kids’ pirate-themed water park. Find out a sunken Maya village under the water. The pools, water slides and beach toys, kids will love them.

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is one of the most popular beach clubs in Cozumel. All the facilities and service the beach blubs provide are prepared at Playa Mia. The size is smaller than other beach clubs but is just the right size. Water sports are especially rich. Enjoy kayaking and parasailing. Under the water, there is a sunken Maya village. Kids will love the pools, water slides and beach toys.

Find out further details on the best beaches in Cozumel near the Cruise port.

NATURE & SCENIC BEAUTY

29. Have a Heavenly View at Playa El Cielo

Playa El Cielo is known as “HEAVEN”. It is one of the famous world-class destinations in Cozumel. The area is the Colombia reef and is the best place for snorkeling and photography.

Playa El Cielo is literarily mentioned as heaven due to its bright blue watercolours and white sands. It is one of the best excursion in Cozumel. The best and the only way to get El Cielo Beach is by boat.

30. Explore Rio Secreto (Secret River Cozumel)

If you visit Cozumel, don’t forget to add Rio Secreto on your list. You will find the region’s most beautiful natural treasure. Millions of years the area was secret. No one knows the place. But one day the cave was discovered by chance. It’s a miracle.

Rio Secreto has a stunning underground river with thousands of stalactites and stalagmites. You will step into a totally different world and landscapes you never imagined. It is truly incredible once in a lifetime experience!! It takes 45 minutes by ferry boat from Cozumel to the mainland of Playa del Carmen. (source)

31. Dive into Palancar Reef

It’s one of the largest coral reefs on the southwest side of Cozumel. Palancar Reef belongs to the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. (source) The area is world-famous among scuba divers.

The geographic shape is dynamic and varies with depth and coral formations. Although Palancar Reef is famous for scuba diving, snorkeling is enjoyable. It can be accessed off the beach or by a boat.

32. Spend a day at Passion Island (Isla Passion)

Isla de Pasion Cozumel is an all-Inclusive Private Island. It’s known as “Cozumel Passion Island“. It is only accessible by a boat or a ferry. It is a gorgeous and secluded island. A beautiful white sand beach and crystal clear blue Caribbean waters create stunning landscapes.

Passion Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cozumel. Hammocks are located under the palm trees. Isla Pasion has lots of water sports. It’s the place for a Cozumel day trip.

33. Witness Baby Sea Turtle Hatching

Cozumel is a major nesting island for the Loggerhead and the Hawksbill sea turtles. They are endangered creatures. Cozumel travellers can volunteer to monitor such sea turtle nests. You can also help to release hatchlings into the Caribbean Sea. Hatchings are released from July to November in the south of East Coast.

34. Cozumel East Coast

West Coast of Cozumel is lively and vibrant, with famous beach clubs and theme parks. You may want to avoid the crowd or be looking for less commercialised feels on a holiday. Then take a taxi and cross the coastal road of Cozumel Island.

You will find magnificent white-sand beaches, blowholes, rocks and caves. Landscapes are rather spectacular. No one disturbs but you can only hear crashing waves and white sand coastlines.

35. Have Sunset Sailboat Cruise

All the snorkel gear you need are ready for use on a catamaran. Pick them up and enjoy snorkeling. You can play with colourful tropical fish around the coral reef.

After fully enjoying some swimming, you are back on a catamaran. Take tequila cocktails or corona from a bar. Relax and enjoy some music. Admire the sunset by sailing on a catamaran.

Have some unforgettable moment by sailing on the tranquil waters in the Caribbean Sea. Romance is in the air!

RELAXING & CALMING

36. Take Your Love to Playa Bonita

If you need to choose a beach for love and romance, Playa Bonita is one of the best. Escape tourist traps on a romantic private tour. Take your loved one to the other side of Cozumel. Cozumel’s East Coast is famous for its extensive beauty and peaceful tranquillity.

You will find a gentle powdery white beach with much fewer tourists at Playa Bonita. It’s a free beach in Cozumel. No crowd but the beauty of nature. There are only you and loved one in front of the spectacular landscapes and with the sound of waves.

37. Relax at Playa Chen Rio

Playa Chen Rio is one of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast of Cozumel. Unlike other beaches on the East Coast, Playa Chen Rio has a beautiful and wide white sandy beach. You may prefer a quieter and not crowded beach. Then take a taxi from a cruise port. Playa Chen Rio is only crowded by locals on Sunday.

Cozumel Beach Map

38. Take Spa & Wellness

You may need some relaxation at a deeper level. Your mind becomes still. Your body is rejuvenated. Treat yourself special this time. Make yourself connected here and now. In Cozumel, you are away from all the hassles and bustles of everyday lives. Enjoy some deep tranquillity and emotional luxury.

COZUMEL MAYAN RUINS

One of the unforgettable things you can do in Cozumel is visiting the Mayan ruins in Cozumel. Cozumel has a rich history. The Mayan civilization flourished about 2,000 years ago. Explore archaeological sites in Cozumel.

San Gervasio and El Cedral are famous as the Mayan historic sites in Cozumel. Ixchel, a goddess of love and fertility, was especially respected and among the Mayans in Cozumel. Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent!

39. Explore Mayan Jungle

Enjoy trekking deep in the jungles of Mexico and explore Mayan ruins. Imagine that over 1,000 years ago, there was a prospering city. Humans actually lived there. Now the Mayan ruins are covered by the deep jungle. You can also have the opportunities of riding an ATV through the jungle, swimming at beautiful cenotes and zip-lines on your way.

40. Discover San Gervasio Ruins

This Mayan archaeological site has been considered as the center of pilgrimages to pay tribute to ‘Ixchel’, a goddess of love and fertile. The San Gervasio ruins are a series of old Mayan temple remains. They are one of the most popular archaeological sites in Cozumel and are a must-see place for culture and history. Stroll through the sacred gardens of the goddess. (source)

41. Visit Royal Castle (Castillo Real)

These Maya ruins are situated on the remote northeastern shore in Cozumel and are close to the Punta Molas Faro. The castle is comprised as a large temple and has a pyramid-shaped base. Castillo Real is accessible only by boat. The area offers you panoramic views of coastlines. There is also a spectacular beach for snorkeling.

42. Find Out El Caracol

The El Caracol is located in between the south and east coastal roads within the Parque Punta Sur nature reserve. The building has been considered as a lighthouse from Mayan times. The El Caracol is was built about 700 years ago.

ARTS, CULTURE & GARDENS

43. Cozumel Butterfly & Botanical Gardens

A botanist grows plants and creates gardens where a lot of rare and colourful butterflies thrive. If you are a nature lover, you will find a real gem of Cozumel here. You will very much enjoy visiting Cozumel Butterfly & Botanical Gardens. The Garden also gets involved in the Coral Reef Restoration Project. You will learn how healthy coral growth is kept just off the shore of the property.

44. Experience Mayan Bee Sanctuary

Ancient Mayans used melipona honey as a sweetener. Honey was for them as an antibiotic. It was used as part of religious ceremonies conducted by priests. (source) Honey was so precious to the Mayas. Honey was used for not only food and medicine but also ceremonial practices and the exchange with goods. Discover the history of Mayan beekeeping.

45. Practice Mayan Temazcal

Temazcal was actually practised in ancient Mayan life. It is a cleansing, relaxing and purification therapy for the nervous system. It helps the reactivation of skin cells. The elimination of fat and stimulation of the blood vessels can be activated. It also has effects on the respiratory, circulatory and digestive systems. After an hour in the Temazcal, you will be rejuvenated.

46. Join Cozumel Chef Food Tour

For foodies, a food tour is indispensable in Cozumel. Cozumel Chef Food Tour takes you to El Mercado, the central Mexican market. You will experience delicious food and gain great knowledge of history and local cuisine. It’s a well-organized tour and is one of the popular excursion in Cozumel.

47. Learn Spanish

Instead of saying “Sorry, I don’t speak Spanish”, you can say some basic Spanish words. The locals will appreciate your effort. It’s a fun way how you interact with the locals and be close to their culture. It’s always a pleasure to learn something new and experience. So why don’t you learn some Spanish before you cruise to Cozumel? Handling the native language also help to save time and money in Cozumel.

48. Visit Modern Mexican Architecture

This City Hall is one of the most important landmarks in Cozumel. It is is known locally as the ‘Palacio Municipal’. The Palacio Municipal features modern Mexican architecture. The building has a white facade and a tall central clock tower. The structure also has a dorm and an archway.

When you find the Palacio Municipal, you can then visit another Cozumel’s important landmark, the Plaza Central. The building is located in the heart of San Miguel de Cozumel. It houses the Cozumel Tourist Information Office and the Tourist Police Kiosk.

49. Master Salsa Steps

The tour is original and creative. It is about making salsa and dancing salsa. The island has many beautiful beaches and transparent clear waters. Latin flavour is everywhere. Learn how to step salsa.

A salsa instructor will give you a lesson on how to move and twist your body step by step. You will be able to make some great salsa moves before the end of your day in Cozumel! After the salsa dancing lesson, you will make salsa and enjoy a Mexican meal. This is a tour both adult and kids can enjoy together!

50. Join a Tequila Tour

Learn how tequila is made. Don’t you think it’s a mystery why Mexicans thought of such spunky plants for a drink and turn them into liquor?

Find out the history of this magical drink and learn how to enjoy it with different flavours. You will taste and make brilliant margaritas and many more! You do not drink alcohol? No problem. You can taste and enjoy non-alcoholic tequila drinks.

MUSEUM & GALLERIES

51. Mayan Cacao Company

Make your own chocolate bar. First, pick up the Mayan historical utensils and follow the authentic recipe of the Mayans. It’s fun! The cacao is known as the “Food of the Gods” in the Maya. Find out how chocolate played a central role in social life and religious ceremonies in the Maya.

52. Cozumel Island Museum

Is this the first time to visit Cozumel? Then visit the Cozumel Island Museum and learn about the island’s history and culture. It’s only around $4 for entry. You will also find out ecology, Mayan heritage and contemporary culture.

The museum is housed in a former luxury hotel. You will learn the island’s ecosystems and conservation issues. Ancient Mayan and Spanish colonial artefacts are also displayed.

53. Chanan Kaan Planetario

There is a planetarium in Cozumel. Discover the Mayan beliefs about the solar system and how the Mayan calendar works. Other than the planetarium, there are a dome-style movie theatre and a botanical garden. The observatory is open during the day 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. 

54. Cozumel Pearl Farm

You can learn the mystery of the ocean’s most precious gems at Cozumel Pearl Garm. Find out the process of how the pearls are grown and cultivated in the Caribbean Sea by taking so many years.

Take a 25-45-minute (depends on the place you departure) boat ride to the north of Cozumel. You will arrive in another world. Enjoy stunning landscapes, powdery sand beaches and turquoise watercolours. (source)

SHOPPING IN COZUMEL

Cozumel is one of the Caribbean’s best ports for shopping. Silver ornaments, crafts and jewellery are particularly the best. Bring cash and be ready to bargain. Shopping can be the best things to do at Cozumel ports.

55. Explore Downtown Cozumel

Cozumel is a great port for shopping. The best shopping and deals are in downtown San Miguel de Cozumel. It is the most developed and largest city in Cozumel. Fancy craft and souvenir shops are all lined up there.

56. Plaza del Sol

Plaza del Sol is the communal and social square of San Miguel de Cozumel. This town square (zocalo in Spanish) is a little oasis in the midst of the bustling shopping district. You can find many crafts, souvenir shops as well as cafes.

After the early evening, you can touch some nice little taste of local nightlife, especially on weekends. Locals come to the square to relax and socialise. Often music is featured with dancing by the locals. You can also find two important landmarks including the Palacio Municipal and a tall clock tower.

57. Punta Langosta

The majority of the finer shops can be found along Avenue Melgar’s main stretch. Punta Langosta is a unique entertainment complex and shopping mall. The live entertainment is going on daily such as with dancers and mariachi bands. You can find a lot of shops at Punta Langosta Mall. Natural stones, tequila and spices are available at great prices.

58. Shop at Duty-Free Shop

Many shops and hotel boutiques prepare clothing, perfume, ceramic, Mexican crafts and souvenirs. You may also want to buy authentic Mexican tequila. Cozumel has well-kept jewellery on sterling silver and gold with precious and semi-precious stones.

59. Puerta Maya

Puerta Maya is a cruise ship port (and Carnival cruise port). Over 50 different shops and 15 free-standing carts lined up in the port. You can find pretty everything here. Are you looking for authentic Mexican crafts and souvenirs? You can find sombreros, embroidered shawls, hammocks, pottery, handblown glass and marionettes. You’ll also find a convenience store, pharmacy and international pay-phones.

60. Royal Village Cozumel

If your ship docks at International Cruise Port, this new and upscale shopping center is the one you can go straight. It is just 3.5 km away from the port. It’s a beautiful mall. After some shopping, enjoy some Mexican coffee. Authentic crafts and souvenir shops appeal to visitors. You can find Lacoste, Nike, Harley Davidson and Marti. Royal Village often holds events like music concerts.

61. Diamond International

You do not fancy water sports activities or beaches? Then you may want to visit the world’s largest duty-free jeweller, Diamond International. They have shops in both in the Downtown and Puerto Maya. A variety of designer watches and jewellery are well shored. The salespeople can explain the details of the items well in English. Find out your favourite jewellery stones in Cozumel.

62. Los Cinco Soles

You will be delighted with Mexican artisan art at Los Cinco Soles. Find out handicrafts and silver jewellery which are actually made by Mexican artisans and jewellers. The displayed souvenirs vary. There is an interior garden. You can enjoy fine Mexican food and drinks.

63. Get Hammock for Souvenir

Yucatan hammocks are the best made in the world. If you are looking for the most comfortable ones, you can find them in Cozumel. You can bring your own colourful handmade hammock wherever you go. Put the strings around pine trees in Cozumel. Then bring it back to home.

DINING & DRINKS

There are plentiful restaurants in Cozumel. Also, enjoy Cozumel beach bars. You can taste authentic Mexican food and cocktails with spectacular views on beaches. Include the best bars for the Cozumel bar hop.

64. Guido’s

Guido’s provides pizza, seafood and Mediterranean cuisines. It’s a popular restaurant, especially among the scuba divers. It’s also one of the best places to eat in Cozumel. The restaurant is located on the main avenue in San Miguel de Cozumel and has excellent service and great food. If you fancy Italian, you must visit this fantastic restaurant. You will not regret. Food is great! It’s a great value for money too.

65. Coconuts Cozumel

If you plan Cozumel bar hop, you need to add Coconuts Cozumel. It is the coolest bar & restaurant in the Caribbean and is located on the East Coast. This is why you can enjoy Cozumel tortilla, guacamole salsa and tacos with beer with spectacular ocean views. Coconuts Cozumel is one of my favourite places for food and drink. The area is not much commercialised. You can be away from the crowd and have fantastic panoramic views of natural landscapes.

66. Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Cozumel

Margaritaville Cozumel makes you feel welcome and relax. This is a well-known bar and restaurant among the cruisers. Their service and food bring their customers again and again. The restaurant provides Caribbean cuisine, burgers and margaritas. Enjoy them on the seaside deck. You can also get a WiFi signal at Margaritaville

67. Casa Mission

This famous authentic Mexican restaurant is popular among the cruisers. Casa Mission is located near the center of San Miguel de Cozumel. You can enjoy great seafood and steaks with a great atmosphere. The restaurant has inner gardens with a lot of tropical plants and flowers. Food is great. Crab and shrimp dishes are especially popular. It’s no surprise Casa Mission has got a lot of repeaters.

68. Three Amigos

You will love this Mexican lively bar and restaurant. The name of this restaurant is originated from the film of the same title. Three Amigo is popular among the cruisers. It is located in Petra Maya port restaurant. The restaurant welcomes visitors with full of Latin flavour. It’s fun! Fresh guacamole, fried chicken, burger, fajita with mariachi margarita and pachanga loga. Visit Three Amigo is one of the things to do in Cozumel port.

COZUMEL BONUS TIPS

WiFi in Cozumel

It’s Cozumel. You can make a great excuse, not to log in social media. It’s a great feeling not to be connected. And yet, we still need to get connected. You may need to show beautiful landscapes of Cozumel to your loved ones. Or let them know Cozumel activities you are enjoying. Then have some free WiFi at:

• Starbucks
• Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Cozumel
• Paradise Beach
• Hard Rock Café Cozumel

Always Check out Disembarkation Time

Remind you to check out your ship’s disembarkation time. You may forget the time to return to the port because staying in Cozumel is incredible. Time goes very fast. If you forget the disembarkation time, find it out with Cozumel cruise port schedule online.

• Puerta Maya Cruise Port Schedule (source)

You may be interested in reading more on the Caribbean cruises:

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