What To Do in Cozumel

Cozumel, the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean, is the perfect place to spend a vacation in true paradise. Water activities, nature and adventure, theme parks, history, and culture come together perfectly to offer visitors a wide variety of things to do.

Any adventure on the "Island of Swallows" (which is the translation of its name in Mayan) must begin in the center known as "San Miguel de Cozumel", which is across the dock when you get off the ferry. The center is home to a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, souvenir shops, bars, and a few hotels. Walking along the boardwalk you will find some of the most representative sculptures of the island, which reveal a little about the history of Cozumel, such as the "Monument to Mestizaje," the "Monument to Carnival," and the "Monument to the Diver." Continuing along the boardwalk you will find the Museum of the Island of Cozumel, a place that highlights the origin, history, culture, traditions, and other aspects of the island through interactive exhibits.

The island was an important site for the Mayans and for the pirates who sailed the Caribbean waters which is reflected in the many remnants found around the island, such as El Caracol, the Royal Castle, and El Cedral, the latter being the oldest Mayan construction on the island. However, the most significant and largest is San Gervasio, the center of pilgrimages for the Mayans who worshiped the goddess Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility, love, and the moon. The site was also a hub for trade and political development in the area.

The beaches of Cozumel have fine white sand and crystal clear waters that make anyone fall in love at first sight. If you want to submerge yourself in its underwater scenery, we recommend hiring a diving or snorkeling tour, which are quintessentially Cozumel. The island has more than 40 dive sites, including colorful coral reefs, mysterious sunken ships, and incredible limestone tunnels and caves that reach depths ranging from 10 to 100 feet and that are teeming with tropical fish and various species of marine wildlife. Other water activities to partake in while in Cozumel include windsurfing, kite surfing, and surfing.

Enjoy the sea without diving in aboard a yacht, catamaran, or even a transparent submarine or speedboat. In them, you will enjoy the wonderful landscape and marvel at the depths of the ocean’s intense turquoise blue and of course, the beautiful sunsets.

If you’re hoping to interact with the local wildlife, schedule your trip with plenty of so that you can plan accordingly. From May to November you can visit a turtle camp and help release sea turtles; or if you prefer to dive into the deep sea, dive or snorkel with eagle rays and giant manta rays from December to March. You can also go in search of crocodiles and admire some of the 224 types of birds that inhabit Cozumel aboard a swamp boat in Punta Sur.

Out of the water, Cozumel’s parks offer unbelievable moments of fun for both children and adults. Zip-line, drive ATVs down winding roads, relax by the sea or learn about the Mayan culture through hands-on activities. If you are looking for adrenaline and excitement, then nature and adventure activities await you, such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The jungle, lagoons, and beaches of Cozumel will allow you to be in total contact with nature.

Now that you know everything you can do on Isla Cozumel,
all you have to do is decide where to start your great adventure on this paradisiacal island that has it all.