Cozumel is a vibrant and inviting Western Caribbean destination for cruise ship passengers. This stunning Caribbean island is located just 11 miles (18 km) off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It is renowned for its natural beauty and has become one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world. This popular port destination attracts over 3 million travelers looking for the perfect Caribbean getaway.
Cozumel is known for its vast selection of white-sand beaches with turquoise, crystal-clear waters. The vibrant coral reefs that surround the island provide fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Beyond the aquatic wonders, Cozumel also offers a rich cultural experience. The island is home to several archaeological treasures, including Mayan ruins. Visitors can explore these ancient sites to get a glimpse into the island’s historical significance.
The largest town in Cozumel is San Miguel, which is also the island’s commercial and cultural hub. Here, you’ll find a bustling waterfront promenade filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. The vibrant atmosphere of San Miguel is a fantastic place to savor the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes.
This article is a comprehensive cruise port guide for Cozumel, offering insights into the top activities and restaurants to enjoy during your port visit.
A Brief History of Cozumel
Cozumel’s history goes back to around 2,000 years when the Mayans first established their presence on the island.
The island, which every Mayan woman was required to visit, served as a sacred site for the worship of Ixchel, the Mayan Moon Goddess.
The island was first conquered by the Spanish in 1518 by Juan de Grijalva. Its strategic location and low population led to its use as a pirate base in the 1700s.
Throughout the years, scientists have uncovered numerous archaeological sites on the island where the Mayans conducted their rituals.
In 1968, cruise ships began to dock on the island, and gradually, Cozumel transformed into a bustling destination for tourists and cruise passengers from all corners of the globe.
Map of Cozumel
Cruise Ports in Cozumel
Cozumel has three cruise ports, each of which serves specific cruise lines.
Punta Langosta Pier
Located right next to downtown San Miguel, the Punta Langosta Pier serves as the island’s top cruise port.
Used by: Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC, Oceania, Silversea, and Marella Cruises
International Cruise Terminal
The international pier is located approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) from San Miguel.
Despite being a bit more distant from San Miguel, it serves one of the leading cruise lines: Royal Caribbean.
Used by: Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises
Puerta Maya Cruise Terminal
Puerta Maya is the furthest port in Cozumel, located around 3 miles (5 km) away from San Miguel, right next to the International Cruise Terminal.
Used by: Carnival Corporation
What is the Weather in Cozumel Like?
The weather in Cozumel is hot throughout the year, with an average temperature of around 80°F (26°C). In the early part of the year, the average temperature is about 75°F (24°C). August is usually the hottest month, with temperatures sometimes hitting 90°F (32°C).
How to Travel Around Cozumel
Cozumel offers a couple of main transportation options:
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Cozumel, offering a quick and efficient way to get around the island. Although there are ‘official’ fares from ports to popular destinations, it’s worth noting that taxi drivers often quote tourist fares, which tend to be higher than the officially designated rates. However, taxi drivers are generally open to negotiation, especially if you’ve previously paid a lower fare.
Foot: If you’re docking at Punta Langosta, you’ll find that you can easily reach San Miguel’s key points of interest on foot
Scooter: Renting a scooter can be a convenient and enjoyable way to explore Cozumel.
Car: For a quick and safe way to explore Cozumel, I highly recommend renting a car. It’s the perfect way to embark on a personalized adventure. Once you step off the cruise ship, you’ll spot rental car companies conveniently situated near the port. The process is typically hassle-free. You’ll discover a variety of vehicle options to suit your preferences and group size. The rates are reasonable, and there’s even an option for comprehensive insurance coverage, ensuring you can set off with peace of mind.
Public transportation: While public transportation in Cozumel is limited to San Miguel, it may still be a good option for budget-conscious travelers.
Where to Eat in Cozumel?
If you’re a food enthusiast, exploring the rich flavors of Cozumel is an essential aspect of your trip. This captivating island has a vibrant culinary scene that caters to the taste buds of every cruise ship passenger.
Pancho’s Backyard
If you’re craving genuine Mexican cuisine or a tasty margarita, consider heading to Pancho’s Backyard. This restaurant offers a pleasant setting and a delicious range of dishes.
Pancho’s Backyard is conveniently located in two locations. One is near the International Cruise Terminal and Puerta Maya Pier, while the other is right near Punta Langosta Pier.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 1 mile (1.6 km) (closest location)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 0.06 miles (0.1 km) (closest location)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Mexican, Latin, Spanish, International
Colores y Sabores
Colores y Sabores is a restaurant where you can enjoy a wide variety of Mexican dishes. Popular choices on the menu often include stuffed peppers, freshly made tortillas, and delicious guacamole.
In addition to Mexican cuisine, this family-run restaurant offers a nice range of beverages, including margaritas and cocktails.
You can reach Colores y Sabores in just a quick 4 minute walk from Punta Langosta Pier.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 0.4 miles (0.7 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Mexican
Fuego Taps Bar & Grill By Riviera Kosher
Fuego is a great restaurant known for its blend of delicious Israeli and Mexican dishes. Diners often mention the restaurant’s schnitzel, tacos, and hummus.
Situated by the sea, Fuego offers scenic views of the Caribbean Sea, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.
Fuego can be found in San Miguel, just a short drive from Punta Langosta Pier.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 3 miles (4.9 km)
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisines: Mexican, International, Fusion
Casa Denis
If you want to taste some authentic, genuine Mexican and Caribbean cuisine, consider stopping by Casa Denis. It’s a family-owned restaurant with a good amount of outdoor seating.
Their top menu choice is the Mayan Pork (Cochinita Pibil), a flavorful slow-cooked pork dish seasoned with spices and cooked in banana leaves. Other menu favorites include fried chicken tacos, lime soup, and Chile relleno.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 0.7 miles (1.2 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 3.3 miles (5.3 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Mexican, Latin
Señor Frog’s
Señor Frog’s, located just a short walk from the International Cruise Terminal, is an ideal spot to savor delicious food and a lively, festive vibe.
Reviewers often mention burritos, steak, and shrimp chipotle. What’s even better is that these selections are budget-friendly, making it an affordable dining outing.
As an extra treat, you’ll receive fun, colorful balloon hats to enjoy while you dine!
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 0.2 miles (0.3 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Mexican, Bar, International
Read More: The Best Restaurants in Cozumel Near the Cruise Port
Best Beaches in Cozumel
All the beaches in Cozumel are open to the public, although some beaches have an entrance fee if there’s a beach club nearby.
The beaches on the western side of the island are home to some of the top scuba diving spots and calm, tranquil waters. On the other hand, beaches on the eastern side experience rougher waters and often have seaweed.
Despite this, a big benefit of eastern beaches is that they are much quieter, making them an excellent choice for those seeking to evade the hustle and bustle of cruise ship crowds.
Note that beaches closer to the port are often rockier. You can find the most pristine, sandy-white beaches along the southwestern coast of Cozumel.
Read More: All You Need To Know About the Beaches in Cozumel – The Ultimate Guide
Money Bar Beach Club
The Money Bar Beach Club is a small beachfront bar, which means you’ll need to buy something at the restaurant to enjoy the beach and its amenities.
The Money Bar Beach Club is within easy driving distance of Cozumel’s ports. The shore is a little rocky, so using the steps is necessary to reach the water. It’s also a popular place for snorkeling.
The club provides comfy loungers and umbrellas, as well as convenient access to restroom facilities and showers.
As the evening progresses, the beach provides a great setting to witness a beautiful sunset.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 4.6 miles (7.4 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 1.7 miles (2.8 km)
- Cost: Admission fee
- Crowd level: Most of the time, it is not super crowded
- Accessibility: Short drive from Cozumel’s ports
- Sand/Rocks: Has some sand and is rocky
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park provides a variety of entertaining activities for people of all ages, as well as numerous facilities and dining options.
Chankanaab’s beach area has sandy spots, although the shoreline itself has many rocks. On the beach, you’ll find chairs, hammocks, and beach huts for lounging.
Some of the best things to do at the park include strolling in the gardens, watching sea lions and crocodiles, and swimming with dolphins or manatees. Don’t forget to try the tequila tasting and enjoy the swimming pools.
This park is also an excellent spot for those who enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Divers can explore captivating underwater statues and the beauty of Chankanaab Reef.
In addition, the park has three seaside-view restaurants to choose from: Blue Lagoon, Dolphin Discovery Restaurant, and El Bucanero.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 5.8 miles (9.3 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 2.9 miles (4.7 km)
- Cost: Admission fee
- Crowd level: Not too crowded
- Accessibility: Short drive from Cozumel’s ports
- Sand/Rocks: Has soft, white sand and some rocks on the shoreline
Passion Island
If you’re seeking a peaceful island getaway away from the crowds, you might want to consider a visit to Passion Island. To reach the island, you’ll need to purchase an all-inclusive day pass.
Reaching Passion Island from the cruise ports involves a boat journey that typically lasts around 45 minutes. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the sight of abundant palm trees, clear turquoise waters, and soft white sand.
The day pass provides access to amenities like kayaks, showers, lockers, hammocks, and loungers. You’ll also find a Mexican-style buffet restaurant and a fully-stocked bar.
Passion Island also has activities for children, including a play area, a maze, and sports like volleyball and soccer.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 6.8 miles (11 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 8.9 miles (14.3 km)
- Cost: Admission fee
- Crowd level: Mostly quiet spot, small crowds
- Accessibility: Only way to get here is a 45 minute boat ride
- Sand/Rocks: Soft, white sand and no rocks
Mr. Sanchos Beach Club
Mr. Sanchos stands out as a favorite beach spot among visitors to Cozumel. This beach club has a rock-free, sandy shore and the convenience of unlimited food and drinks.
You can indulge in various enjoyable activities at Mr. Sanchos Beach Club, such as a floating water park, jet skiing, wave running (similar to a jet ski), and ATV riding.
When it comes to dining, Mr. Sanchos provides an oceanfront setting. You can choose dishes from a menu or opt for a buffet. Reviewers often mention the coconut shrimp, quesadilla, tacos, and guacamole.
If you want more of a relaxed day by the beach, you’ll appreciate the vast selection of beach chairs, umbrellas, hammocks, and cabanas available.
If you’re traveling with a partner, consider the Romantic Day Beach Pass at Mr. Sanchos. It includes a private cabana, massages, and a generous all-you-can-eat menu.
Keep in mind that Mr. Sanchos is a popular destination for shore excursions, so it can get quite crowded.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 9.9 miles (16 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 7.1 miles (11.4 km)
- Cost: Admission fee
- Crowd level: Crowded
- Accessibility: Short drive from Cozumel’s ports
- Sand/Rocks: Soft, white sand and no rocks
Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
If you’re looking to connect with nature, consider a visit to Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. Situated at the southernmost point of the island, this natural coastal paradise is a bit of a drive from the ports.
Within this park, you’ll have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife, such as crocodiles, tropical fish, birds, turtles, iguanas, and flamingos.
Besides its natural beauty, the island boasts pristine, white-sand beaches. You can find beach essentials like chairs, hammocks, and umbrellas.
For an extra cost, you can explore other activities like tequila tasting, massages, and kayaking. You also have the option to rent snorkeling gear or dine at the park’s restaurant.
The park has a white lighthouse that offers a panoramic view when you climb to the top. Other tourist attractions include the Mayan ruins of El Caracol and a nautical museum at the base of the lighthouse.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 22.9 miles (36.8 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 20 miles (32.2 km)
- Cost: Admission fee
- Crowd level: Can be crowded, but the beach is mostly quiet
- Accessibility: 30 to 50 minute drive from the ports
- Sand/Rocks: Soft, white sand and no rocks
Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is a beautiful beach conveniently reachable by a quick taxi ride from the ports. Even though it’s labeled as a public beach, there have been reports of an entrance fee.
The shore has a sandy expanse without any noticeable rocks on the surface, although a few visitors have mentioned the presence of some submerged rocks.
At this location, there’s a club that offers various conveniences such as beach chairs, umbrellas, a swim-up bar, and a Mexican restaurant.
The club also includes a swimming pool and provides a variety of activities for children, including water inflatables and slides, as well as activities for adults, like paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Distance from Punta Langosta: 8.8 miles (14.2 km)
- Distance from Puerta Maya/International Pier: 6.15 miles (9.9 km)
- Cost: Admission fee
- Crowd level: Crowded
- Accessibility: Short drive from Cozumel’s ports
- Sand/Rocks: Beach is sandy, though there are rocks underwater
Free Things to do in Cozumel
Cozumel has a range of free things to do that are ideal for cruise ship travelers. Dive into the island’s rich heritage by exploring free tourist attractions such as bustling markets, historical landmarks, and picturesque beaches. Engaging in no-cost attraction allows you to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank
Playa San Martin
Playa San Martin is a free, quiet beach situated on Cozumel’s eastern coast. It’s important to note that the beach has rough waters, so it’s not recommended to swim here.
What’s great about this beach is that it doesn’t have any rocks and has long stretches of soft, powdery white sand. Depending on the season, you might spot some seaweed near the water.
If you plan to relax, you’ll find umbrellas and chairs available, though there’s a requirement to make a purchase at the restaurant or pay a fee for their use.
Playa Palancar
Playa Palancar is a beautiful, hidden gem of a beach located on the southwestern coast of Cozumel. The best part is that you can access the beach itself without paying an entrance fee.
This beach has a smooth, rock-free shore with clear, turquoise waters and soft, powdery white sand. It’s a good idea to bring your own beach gear, as there is a fee for renting beach chairs and umbrellas.
While Playa Palancar’s beach club offers fewer amenities compared to other clubs on the island, it truly stands out for its natural beauty and clean, seaweed-free waters. It’s a place you definitely don’t want to miss.
Explore San Miguel
San Miguel, Cozumel’s main town, is a vibrant destination with a wide range of shopping centers, restaurants, and tourist attractions. This city is conveniently walkable and just a short stroll away from Punta Langosta.
One of the most striking aspects of San Miguel is its architecture, which reflects a blend of Mexican and Spanish influences. The town’s buildings frequently showcase a blend of vivid colors and intricate designs.
Take a picture beside the ‘Cozumel’ sign
When visiting Cozumel, taking a picture by the Cozumel sign is a simple yet great way to remember your trip. If you’re cruising, you might even find a ‘Cozumel’ sign at the port with your cruise ship in the background.
Best Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Locations in Cozumel
Cozumel ranks among the top destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving. This is because Cozumel is surrounded by one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the western Caribbean: the Mesoamerican Reef.
While there are shore-based snorkeling spots, the majority of the beautiful sites require a boat journey. In addition, the island provides plenty of shallow dive sites, making it an excellent choice for novice divers.
Palancar Reef
Palancar Reef is one of the most beautiful dive sites in all of Cozumel. The reef is recognized for its remarkable biodiversity. It is located on the southwestern coast of the island.
Palancar Reef is divided into 4 sections: bricks, caves, gardens, and horseshoe. These dive sites have a maximum depth ranging from 80 ft (24 m) to 115 ft (35 m).
At this magnificent reef, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter an array of fascinating marine creatures, including butterflyfish, triggerfish, sea turtles, and even nurse sharks.
You can only get to this reef by boat because it’s quite far from the shore. It’s a good idea to look into booking a tour that includes a visit to this spot.
Colombia Reef
Located right next to Palancar Reef, Colombia Reef is a beautiful reef known for its incredible, colorful coral formations.
Ranging from 50 ft (15 m) to 90 ft (27 m) deep, the reef is famous for its extensive network of caverns and walls.
Damselfish, groupers, and turtles dominate this reef. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a spotted eagle ray, octopus, or nurse shark.
This reef is approximately a 15 to 20 minute boat ride from the shore, and rest assured, it’s well worth the journey.
Paradise Reef
Paradise Reef is a stunning reef located on Cozumel’s western shoreline, right beside Puerta Maya Pier.
Paradise Reef is shallower and more beginner-friendly when compared to other reefs on the island, with a maximum depth of around 40 ft (12 m).
Brain and star corals, sea fans, anemones, and sponges are common sights while diving. You’re also likely to come across damselfish, queen angelfish, and spotted moray eels. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a seahorse or scorpion fish.
Although Paradise Reef is reachable from the shore, it is advised to take a boat, especially if you’re a beginner.
El Cielo
El Cielo is an excellent choice for beginner divers, featuring pristine, turquoise waters and an abundance of marine creatures.
Some parts of El Cielo have such shallow waters that you can stand on your feet without any trouble.
El Cielo is known for its majestic starfish, southern stingrays, and many tropical fish. You might even spot some turtles.
El Cielo is located on the southern tip of the island and is only accessible by boat.
Best Shopping in Cozumel
Cozumel’s shopping scene is a vibrant one, especially for cruise ship passengers looking for some retail therapy. Whether you’re into bustling markets filled with traditional Mexican crafts and souvenirs or prefer strolling through modern malls with international brands, Cozumel’s got something for everyone. It’s a diverse and exciting shopping experience waiting for you to explore!
Plaza del Sol
Plaza del Sol is a lively, bustling shopping hub located right next to Punta Langosta Port in San Miguel.
Plaza del Sol provides a range of shopping options, including craft stores, clothing retailers, and jewelry shops.
As soon as you arrive, the first thing you’ll notice is the tall clock tower. The surrounding buildings showcase a mix of Mexican and Spanish architecture with vivid colors and ornate detailing.
In addition, there’s a giant ‘Isla Cozumel’ sign in the square, providing an ideal photo opportunity to commemorate your journey.
Royal Village Shopping Center
The Royal Village Shopping Center is a clean, modern shopping center that is right near the International Cruise Terminal.
At the Royal Village Shopping Center, you’ll find stores that sell apparel, sportswear, jewelry, vitamins and supplements, and even a casino.
The shopping center has restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe, Ix Kool, and Carl’s Jr. It’s also close to the ports, so you’ll find more dining choices nearby, such as Senor Frogs, Bar Mandy, and Pinchez Tacos.
Los Cinco Soles
Los Cinco Soles is a large shop that sells a wide range of high-quality, authentic, Mexican-style souvenir items.
The store itself is spacious and is known for its beautiful artwork, bowls, magnets, tiles, jewelry, ceramics, and exquisite, hand-painted Talavera pottery—a local art tradition.
You can also dine at the restaurant connected to the store, which is known for its tequila and artisan chocolates.
The Mayan Cacao Company
The Mayan Cacao Company is an artisan chocolate shop located right next to Playa Mia Beach.
The shop provides a tour showcasing the traditional Mayan chocolate-making process. If you’re willing to pay more, you can even make your own Mayan chocolate.
On the menu, you’ll find offerings such as chocolate martinis, margaritas, mudslide drinks, classic mole recipes, freshly ground cacao, and chocolate bars.
Note that some reviewers have mentioned that the shop is a bit pricey.
Other Exciting Things to Do in Cozumel
Cozumel isn’t just about its stunning beaches and marine life; it’s also packed with thrilling activities to suit every taste. Embark on unforgettable adventures like exploring the underground river in Playa del Carmen’s Río Secreto or hopping on an ATV or dune buggy tour. If you love history, make sure to check out the Mayan ruins that spread across the region.
Take a visit to Río Secreto
Río Secreto is a captivating, partially submerged cave complex situated just off the coast of Cozumel on mainland Mexico. It was discovered in 2004 and is now a protected nature reserve.
Within the cave, you’ll find limestone formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone formations, and various cenotes.
The cave entrance is approximately a 1-hour ferry trip away from Cozumel, followed by a 10-15 minute drive. Your cruise line is likely to offer an excursion to Río Secreto.
You will be provided with all the necessary equipment. Make sure to wear a wetsuit, as the water can get quite chilly.
During your exploration, you may come across a wide range of cave-dwelling animals, including small shrimps, bats, catfish, and even cave spiders.
Take an ATV or dune buggy tour
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, consider taking an ATV or dune buggy excursion around Cozumel.
Despite the somewhat high cost of an ATV or dune buggy tour, it’s an excellent option for individuals who like to explore at their own pace.
ATVs excel at off-road adventures, with some tours taking you through trails in the forest. Dune buggies are better suited for those seeking a gentler drive along the coastline or on paved roads.
Visit Mayan ruins
Cozumel has two Mayan archaeological sites: Zona Arqueológica el Cedral and Zona Arqueológica San Gervasio. Although they are both relatively small, they are definitely worth a visit.
Both of Cozumel’s archaeological sites were devoted to the worship of the Mayan goddess Ixchel, who was associated with medicine, fertility, and the moon.
There are a few larger and more intriguing Mayan sites near Cozumel, though they require a ferry ride to the mainland and will take up a day for the excursion.
The first site is Tulum (1 hr, 30 min away), a beautiful Mayan archeological site situated on the seafront cliffs of the Yucatan Peninsula. It stands as one of the Mayans’ last creations, showcasing a fascinating fusion of architectural styles.
El Meco (2 hr, 20 min away) is another Mayan site located in the northern part of Cancun. The site itself is quite small and is known for its 40 ft (12 m) tall pyramid.
Coba (2 hr, 15 min away), situated in the jungle, sees relatively low tourist traffic due to its remote location. The site itself is large and has a pyramid towering at 138 ft (42 meters) in height. It is one of the few pyramids in the region that visitors are allowed to climb.
Chichén Itzá (3 hr, 20 min away) is one of the most iconic archeological sites in Mexico and one of the few with Toltec influence. The site has the well-known 98 ft (30 m) tall El Castillo pyramid, as well as other sites such as the Temple of the Warriors and El Caracol.
Rent a car and drive around the island
A great activity to do on your own in a day in port is to rent a car and drive around the island.
Renting a car in Cozumel is an excellent way to have a personalized adventure. As you disembark from the cruise ship, you’ll find rental car companies conveniently located near the port. The process is usually hassle free. You will find quite a few vehicle options to match your preferences and group size. Rates are reasonable and there’s also an option for comprehensive insurance coverage so you can set off with peace of mind.
Cozumel is a compact Caribbean island waiting to be explored. A day is ample time to travel around the entire island.
The Cozumel Island loop road is 40 miles around and circles the entire southern part of the island. However, do keep in mind that the northern section of the island remains inaccessible by car.
With various scenic lookouts, beach clubs, bars, and restaurants peppering the route, you can tailor your journey to match your pace.
There are some really nice restaurants and bars on the east side of the island. Punta del Sur is beautiful as well as the drive there.
Remember, while the freedom of a rented car is unparalleled, time is of the essence. Keep a keen eye on the clock and the ship’s departure schedule to avoid any last-minute rushes.
Family-Friendly Activities in Cozumel
When your cruise ship docks at Cozumel, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on some truly memorable experiences with your family. From exploring the island’s rich history and culture at the Cozumel Museum to indulging in thrilling horseback riding adventures, there’s plenty to do during your day in the port. Make the most of your time ashore and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Cozumel Museum
If you want to learn more about the history of Cozumel, consider visiting the Cozumel Museum. The museum is located along the shore of San Miguel and was previously a luxury hotel.
The museum features a total of 11 exhibitions, four of which are permanent, highlighting the island’s culture, history, and geography.
Horseback Riding
If you want a fun, family-friendly activity, consider going horseback riding along the beach. This unique excursion is only available from Mr. Sanchos.
The ride begins deep in the jungle and gradually leads you to the shore. Once you’re there, you can relax and enjoy the sandy beach and the beautiful turquoise waters.
What’s great about this excursion is that once it’s over, you are free to spend the rest of the day at Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club.
Please be aware that the minimum age requirement for horseback riding on this excursion is 7 years old.
29 Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise Day in Port – FAQ
How far is San Miguel from Cozumel’s cruise ports?
The center of San Miguel is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) away from Punta Langosta Pier and 2.9 miles (4.6 km) away from Puerta Maya/International Pier.
What is the best time to visit Cozumel?
The best time to visit Cozumel mostly depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels.
When planning your trip, there are three seasons to keep in mind:
Dry season (December to April): This is the peak tourist season in Cozumel. The weather is typically dry, warm, and pleasant during these months.
This is also the high season, so you may want to avoid this season if you don’t like large crowds.
Wet season (May to October): During this time, Cozumel receives more rainfall. Rainfall may occur once or twice a day and is usually short-lasting.
If you don’t mind the occasional rainfall and want to avoid crowds, you might consider visiting during this season.
Hurricane season (June to November): In this period, the region is more susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes.
Despite this, hurricanes are quite rare in Cozumel, with the last serious one being Hurricane Wilma in 2005.
Can you swim in the ocean in Cozumel?
In Cozumel, you can swim in the ocean on the western side of the island. However, it’s not advisable to swim on the eastern side due to the rough seas.
How walkable is Cozumel?
The only walkable area of Cozumel is San Miguel, which is where most of the island’s shopping, eating, and activities are located.
Is it worth driving around Cozumel?
If your activities are spread out across Cozumel and you’re not arriving at Punta Langosta, driving around the island is probably the best option.
What side of Cozumel has the best beaches?
The beaches on the western side of cozumel are usually preferable because they are free of seaweed and offer calmer waters. For the best experience, consider heading to the western beaches that are away from the ports, as they are generally rock-free.
What beaches in Cozumel have no seaweed?
The beaches on the western side of Cozumel have no seaweed.
Is Cozumel safe?
Cozumel is considered a safe destination for tourists to visit. The island has a strong police presence and a low crime rate when compared to other places in Mexico.
While some caution is advised against walking in Cozumel at night, most visitors have found it safe to do so, especially in San Miguel.
Just like anywhere else, it’s important to be cautious and use common sense to ensure your trip to Cozumel remains safe.
How big is Cozumel?
Cozumel is around 30 miles (48 km) long and 10 miles (16 km) wide. The island has a total area of 184.5 sq miles (478 km²), making it the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean and the third-largest in Mexico.
Can I rent a car in Cozumel?
Yes, you can rent a car in Cozumel. You should be able to find some car rental agencies near each of the three ports. Additionally, you might want to book a rental in advance near your port of call.
What currency is used in Cozumel?
The currency used in Cozumel is the Mexican peso (MXN). Although most shops accept US dollars, it’s recommended to have some Mexican pesos on hand, especially in more local or non-touristy areas.
What should I pack for a trip to Cozumel?
You should be well-prepared for a trip to Cozumel as long as you bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and some extra cash. If you’re snorkeling, you might want to consider bringing your own gear.
Can I visit Cozumel without going on a cruise?
Yes, you can visit Cozumel without having to go on a Caribbean cruise. Cozumel has its own airport, with some airline providers even flying directly to the island.
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