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Best Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise Day in Port

There are so many things to do that it’s tough to decide the best things to do in Cozumel, especially when you only have one day in port.

Here are our best suggestions on what to do in Cozumel in only one day.

Almost all short cruises from South Florida or the Gulf states plus Western Caribbean itineraries include a visit to Cozumel. This year, Cozumel expects nearly 4 million cruise passengers. I t’s no wonder why.

It’s hard to believe that this diverse, laid-back island in the Yucatan Peninsula is just 12 miles off the east coast of mainland Mexico. It’s also a jumping off point for a ferry to Playa del Carmen on the mainland and excursions to the Mayan Ruins.

Best Things to Do in Cozumel

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I love a day in Cozumel.  From gorgeous uncrowded secluded beaches or famous beach clubs to world-class snorkeling or discovering authentic Mexican cuisine, there’s so much to do in Cozumel on a cruise day. I’ve narrowed down the list to places I’ve seen, dined, shopped, and shore tours I’ve taken.

READ NEXT:  Cozumel Snorkeling Tour with Lunch Review

Since your cruise ship is stopping in Cozumel for only one day, you better make the most your time! So let’s get started. Here are my picks for some of the  best things to do in Cozumel and what makes this tiny island so unique. 

A Little History of Cozumel May Help You Decide

Though nearly a 3,000 year-old civilization, Cozumel was a commercial and ceremonial center during the classic Mayan period about 250 to 900 A.D. During this time the Mayans created many of its sacred archeological sites dotted across the island. 

Mayans would travel to and from the mainland by canoe and considered this land to have religious significance.

Cozumel was also once a refuge for pirates and trading ships, giving them a place to replenish and feel protected by the dangerous coral reef. Eventually, in 1518, with the first Spanish expedition, the Spaniards occupy the land, finally making it the most prominent island inhabited by Mexico. 

Now, Cozumel is a  thriving tourist location for its beautiful sandy beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, cuisine and much more. 

Where Your Ship Might Dock in Cozumel

Your cruise ship will dock at one of three Cozumel cruise ports, all located on the island’s western side. These include Punta Langosta, International pier, and Puerta Maya. Where you dock could depend on what cruise line you are sailing. 

Think of Punta Langosta as the downtown pier. The International Pier is three miles south, and then Puerta Maya is the furthest outside of town, nearly five miles away. From Puerta Maya, it’s too far to walk into town, but you’re closer to the beach clubs.

Punta Langosta

Punta Langosta is Cozumel’s local downtown pier. If your ship docks at this port, you will be in the center of it all and only a few minutes walk to downtown San Miguel, the largest city on the island. 

Leaving the ship, kiosks and vendors will filter you through the Punta Langosta Mall full of shops and restaurants. And souvenir stands. Almost all Norwegian Cruise Line ships will dock here, assuming there’s space. Plus, Disney and MSC also use this port. 

Punta Langosta Mall has all the usual Caribbean shops; Cariloha, Del Sol, Diamonds International, Colombian Emeralds. Take time to venture into the smaller shops. Be prepared to haggle for the price; it’s what they do. But don’t try to bargain too low – everyone has to earn a living. 

If you need any drugstore items, there is at least one pharmacy in the mall. There’s no haggling over prices at any of the pharmacies. 

International Pier

The International Pier is the middle-island cruise ship port. You’ll probably dock here if you’re cruising with Royal Caribbean or Celebrity.

You can still walk to Punta Langosta and San Miguel from this port, but it’s usually too hot to walk into town and back to your ship. For a few dollars, it’s easier to hop into a taxi for the ride downtown or back to your ship.

The shopping mall across the street, Royal Village Shopping Mall, gets mixed reviews from customers. All the usual Caribbean shops are here, too.

If you decide to walk into town, the pedestrian sidewalk is reasonably wide on the sea side. Along the way, you’ll see waterfront restaurants and bars on the other side of the street but be extra careful when you cross the busy road.

The International Pier is also home to colorful architectural sites and a giant shopping center and places to eat and drink. This is the only drawback to cruising with Royal Caribbean and brands.

Punta Langosta and Puerta Maya have a nicer infrastructure complex. Maybe that will change.

Puerta Maya

The farthest port from downtown San Miguel is Puerta Maya , about five miles south. This is where Carnival ships dock and most of their brands dock here, too.

After you leave your ship, you’ll find a lush garden full of flowers and plants and the most extensive shopping mall out of all three ports. There are at least 50 shops plus pop-up kiosk-type vendor stands. And of course, a pharmacy. 

Puerta Maya is home to popular restaurants like The Three Amigos bar and a newer Pancho’s Backyard plus lots of colorful photo ops. 

If you want to head out on your own, there’s a car rental agency located near the taxi stand. 

Best Places for Lunch in San Miguel, Cozumel

If you love food, you’ll be happy to learn that Cozumel has some fabulous places to eat. If you’re like me, when I travel, I want to make sure to sample the best authentic food I can find. Cozumel has several restaurants that won’t disappoint. 

When you only have one day to spare, it’s helpful to know exactly where to eat in Cozumel. Here are some fantastic suggestions! And yes, I’ve been to all of them. 

Pancho’s Backyard

Pancho’s Backyard, in the heart of downtown San Miguel, is adjacent to Los Cinco Solas shopping arcade. The decor is traditional Mexican style with woven leather seats and bright colors. Just keeping walking north along the waterfront and you’ll find Pancho’s Backyard.

Local musicians play the sounds of Mexico for a fantastic ambiance. Not to worry, it’s not a noisy mariachi band. Instead, there are usually three people quietly playing guitar and accompanying instruments.

There’s also the newer Pancho’s Backyard down by Carnival’s pier, Puerto Maya. But I prefer the Pancho’s to the north at Los Cinco Solas small shopping mall. 

If you’re looking for dessert, it’s a short taxi ride to the nearby Kakao Chocolate Factory.

Pescaderia is considered a hidden gem a bit outside of Centro San Miguel. This restaurant features fresh seafood dishes, including their famous ceviche, which is a must-try! Or try the local catch, prepared whole and served family-style.

Pescaderia also plays live music and is known for its accommodating and amiable owners and staff. This family-run restaurant has gluten-free options and reasonable prices for its high-quality food.

Panaderia la Cozumelena

Since 1962, Panaderia la Cozumelena has been serving delicious coffee and breakfast to its patrons. The menu has something for everyone, including light fruit and smoothies to substantial breakfasts.

Order a cafe de olla, coffee with cinnamon, and you’ll also receive pan dulce, a sweet and traditional Mexican bread. This place is the perfect place to break your fast when docking early for a day in Cozumel.

Cozumel Beach Clubs 

What’s the number one thing you should do when visiting Cozumel? Go to the beach! If you’re looking to enjoy a full beach/pool day, there are a ton of beach clubs from which to choose.

Here are a few suggestions! Keep in mind that the most popular and sandy beaches are all on the island’s west side. 

That’s where you’ll find the lively beach clubs, major hotels, and some of the best dive and snorkeling sites in the world. 

Mr. Sanchos Beach Club

Mr. Sanchos  Beach Club, located about 20 minutes from downtown San Miguel, offers an all-inclusive day pass to travelers looking to get the most out of the relaxing beach life in Cozumel.

All the cruise ships sell Mr. Sanchos beach shore excursions, so don’t be surprised at the number of cruise passengers homesteading their beach chairs.

A day pass includes all of your food and drink as well as access to their two pools, beach palapas, and activities such as kayaking, water sports, and more. You can even add on horseback riding, parasailing, and the use of a wave runner.

Paradise Beach Club

Paradise Beach Club is another option when looking for an all-inclusive excursion with unlimited drinks and food. Enjoy their enormous heated pool and cute boutique shopping stores to pick up your souvenirs. 

This particular club also features a Fun Day pass which includes access to their ocean water park with inflatable trampolines, slides, and more.

This pass also gives you access to kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkeling gear. 

Cabana Beach Club

If you’re looking for a more private experience, Cabana Beach might be the best place for you. At this beach club, you’ll enjoy your private VIP cabana that can hold up to six guests.

You’ll also have access to concierge service for food, drinks, and activities. There are also many events held at this particular club, including live music and dance parties. If you’re looking for a private and premiere experience, the Cabana Beach Club is it!

Also included with your entrance fee is access for snorkeling in the nearby Chankanaab Eco Park. 

Isla Pasión (Passion Island)

The private island of Isla Pasión is located at the north end of Cozumel, reachable by boat. Tours to this secluded beach are offered by all the cruise lines. 

Included with the tour package are lounge chairs, hammocks, a water park, plus lunch and beverages. If you really want to get away from the crowds and stay on the west (calmer seas) side of Cozumel, this is a great choice.

Best Snorkeling Locations

While snorkeling isn’t my go-to sport, snorkeling is one of the best activities you can do in these warm Caribbean waters. Cozumel is known for its incredible and plentiful coral reefs, and following are a few of the best snorkeling locations in Cozumel and possibly the world.

Dzul Ha at The Money Bar

This location, near the Puerta Maya and International piers, could be the best location for snorkeling in all of Cozumel.

There’s plenty of sea life with large schools of tropical fish and an excellent chance to view turtles and manta rays! It’s also a very uncrowded beach club with great food and lounge chairs. 

Playa Corona

Playa Corona is an excellent spot for snorkeling in shallow waters. Without the need for a boat ride to get to some great snorkeling, it’s a fan favorite!

Spot schools of fish and enjoy the local restaurant when you’ve become waterlogged and need a break!

Chankanaab Eco Park

At this popular spot, you’ll be sure to see lobster, colorful coral, manta rays, and much more. The mild currents in this area make for an abundance of tropical fish.

You won’t have to dive too deep to see all that you’d want to see on a snorkeling excursion. 

Best Uncrowded Beaches on the “Other” Side

Most people gravitate towards the west side of Cozumel because of San Miguel, the many beach clubs, and all the three cruise ports along the coast.

However, the  other side of Cozumel  is beautiful, more rugged looking, and much more private if you’re looking to get away from the crowds.

On the east side of the island, tourists come for the bars and restaurants, narrow beaches, and gorgeous views of the rugged eastern coastline. 

If you’re looking for a quieter place to relax and enjoy a good book without interruption, try visiting one of these options on the “other” side of the island. 

Punta Sur Ecological Beach Park

At the southern tip of Cozumel Island, this eco-reserve is a protected lagoon teeming with wild birds and crocodiles. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for beautiful views of the island.

Here on the east side of Cozumel and the Caribbean Sea, you’ll feel like you’re on your private beach. You can rent 4x4s and head out on your own.

Some rentals also include a stop for lunch and a beverage and time to relax on the beach. 

This could be one of the best things to do in Cozumel on a cruise. Especially if you want to get away from the hub-bub of downtown and usually thousands of cruise passengers. 

Playa Punta Morena

Talk about private! This beach is tucked away on the less popular east side of the island. Here, you can rent a hammock or lounger or use your belongings for sitting privately and spending time alone in paradise.

Playa Chen Rio and Chen Rio Restaurant

Playa Chen Rio beach is a great escape and one of the only really nice soft, sandy beaches on this side of the island.

Have lunch at Chen Rio’s as you overlook the waves crashing against the magnificent rocks along the shore. The palapa-inspired decor gives you an authentic tropical island experience. There’s an extensive menu to peruse and a sandy path down to the sea for exploring after lunch. 

For a break from the action, located between Chen Rio and Punta Morena, ascend the stone stairs up to one of my favorite bars in Cozumel.

With stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and excellent drinks and snacks, this is a great way to end your day in Cozumel.

There’s also a sandy walking path down to the rocky, limestone beach. Not for swimming. 

Best Shopping in Cozumel

Something about traveling makes you want to shop! Of course, you’ll want to pick up some great souvenirs for your loved ones at home and also something for yourself to remember the trip.

Head to one of these shopping locations to find your favorite souvenirs.

Los Cinco Solas

Known in English as the Five Sons, this shopping center is a souvenir hunter’s dream.

Considered one of the best shopping destinations in all of Cozumel, this area is where you’ll find the best selection of beautifully hand-crafted gifts and pottery on the entire island.

While some of the items may be a bit expensive, it’s worth it for the quality and uniqueness.

Remember, if you have lunch at Pancho’s Backyard at the north end of town, you’ll be right there at Los Cinco Solas.

In need of sunscreen or other last-minute items that you forgot to pack? Are you looking for some unique spices? Look no further than MegaMart.

With tons of fresh fruit, vegetables, and to-go snacks, you’ll find it hard not to walk away with something delicious. It’s like a Walmart but more fun!

But remember, only unopened packs of food, coffee, spices, etc., are allowed back on the ship.

El Mercado is a colorful, open-air area full of little eateries and small shops. This local market is the perfect place to try all different types of local flavors, especially on a budget.

Spend a couple of hours walking around for some fresh ready-to-eat meals! But you can’t bring the fruit back to your ship.

Punta Langosta Mall 

Located right next to the Punta Langosta cruise port, you’ll find all of the souvenirs you need.

Visit as soon as you dock or while you’re waiting to board after your day ashore. This area is full of big-name shops but also local Mexican vendors as well as a pharmacy.

Similar to Puerto Maya, it’s a tourist’s shopping haven. 

Getting Around Cozumel Island

If you want to enjoy the most of Cozumel on your cruise, you’ll need a proper way to get around. Consider renting a taxi when you get off your cruise ship to take you downtown for a fair price.

If you want to go to the east side of the island, it might be better to rent a car instead of paying for the higher cab fare.

Or, walk up to a cab driver and ask how much he’d charge for a 1/2 day of touring. 

A couple of years ago, for $50 USD, our driver took three of us all around the island, with stops at Chen Rio, Coconuts, and a couple of other places. 

If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider renting an ATV to explore the island!

Cozumel Conclusion 

To try and do many of the best things to do in Cozumel on a cruise, you really need to maximize your time. Cozumel is an incredible island with tons of unique and interesting activities and places to explore.

Be sure to leave some time to taste the local flavors from some of the best restaurants in the area, sip a cold margarita while you relax on some of the Caribbean’s best beaches. 

You’ll see colorful tiny tropical fish swimming right up to the shoreline. But go snorkeling at the reefs, and you’ll be astounded at the variety of underwater activities and beauty.

Now that you know the best things to do in Cozumel in one day, it’s time to plan your cruise with our favorite cruise tips !

More Mexico Travel Inspiration and Ideas!

• Cozumel Food Tours
• Josefina’s Kitchen Cooking Class
• Cozumel Chef Food Tour
• What to Do in Costa Maya, Mexico

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Hi Suzi, Thank you for your kind words about my Cozumel article. The island is really a wonderful place to visit with so many options for recreation and dining. I hope you have a wonderful day.

Thank you for this great run down of options and brief explanation of them. I think I have a clearer idea of the lay out of the town and perhaps what we might venture in to on our day off the ship.

Hi Becky, Thank you SO much for reading the article and your kind words. It’s really appreciated. As you probably already learned, I only have the one article on Roatan. But I hope my Costa Maya article was helpful. Cozumel is one of my favorite places…there’s really so much to do and see without spending a fortune. Have a wonderful cruise and thank you again!

We are headed to Cozumel for one day as part of a cruise. All the books I could find were far too in depth. Your article was perfect. Just enough specifics to help us make a plan. We don’t want to fill our days entirely with shore excursions, but don’t want to wander aimlessly and have people tell us later what we missed. I’m going to search now in hopes that you have similar articles for Roatan and Costa Maya. What a difference your work will make on our vacation. Thank you!

Hi Liz, Thank you so much for your kind words! Happy to share my info. Yes, I’ve spent a day at Nachi Cocum more than once. In fact, I think it was the first beach club I ever went to in Cozumel years ago and returned to several times. The pool is very nice, the food is plentiful and more typically touristic than a restaurant in town but still good. It always seems to get good reviews too and limiting the amount of guests is a great idea. Mr. Sanchos, on the other hand, is (in my opinion) somewhat chaotic. Nice but very crowded. I think you will enjoy your day at Nachi Cocum. I would suggest eating lunch earlier rather than later, when everything is fresh from the kitchen. Just my suggestion based on experience. Basically, get there earlier in the day, relax, eat and do your shopping later.

Have a wonderful day in Cozumel! Thank you again for reading my articles…it’s much appreciated.

Hi Sheri. Thank you for another great article! We are headed to Nachi Cocum this month. Do you have any experience with this Cozumel beach destination?

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Updated on March 12, 2024 by Wesley Edwards

30 Best Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise [Cruise Port Guide]

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If you’re going a Caribbean cruise and visiting Cozumel, you’re in luck! Cozumel is a popular cruise port in the Caribbean, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural experiences.

There are so many fun and interesting things to do in Cozumel, much of it in near the cruise port. From snorkeling along the famous Palancar Reef, visiting ancient Mayan ruins, or relaxing at one of the island’s popular beach resorts, there is something for everyone.

Cruise ships dock at one of Cozumel’s 3 large piers and it’s not uncommon to have 6 or more ships in port for the day. It’s a good idea to plan activities in advance, either through the cruise line or local tour operators, to ensure availability.

In this Cozumel cruise port guide, you’ll find a list of Cozumel excursions and main attractions. I’ve also included Cozumel travel tips and port information that cruise passengers should know.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

About Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is located in the Yucatan Peninsula, about 45 miles north of Cancun. Contrary to bustling Cancun, Cozumel is a quieter area to visit. It’s also a ferry trip away from popular Playa Del Carmen.

Cozumel has some of the most beautiful coral reefs, clear water, tropical fish and marine life that rivals many Caribbean islands. Cozumel also has several natural parks that offer a range of outdoor activities and experiences.

When it comes to shopping and dining, prices are reasonable at local restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. Bargaining is common in local markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices on jewelry and handicrafts.

Related: Caribbean Cruise Packing List

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Cozumel?

Cruise ships dock at one of 3 Cozumel piers. It’s a good idea to take note of your cruise terminal when you depart from your cruise ship so that when you return at the end of the day, there is no confusion.

Punta Langosta (downtown)

Punta Langosta is the cruise terminal closest to Downtown Cozumel, within a short walking distance. This is a great place if you simply want to walk around Cozumel, shop, eat in a local restaurant or do a bit of shopping. There are some free museums that you can visit nearby the cruise ship.

International Pier

International Pier is in the middle between Punta Langosta and Puerto Maya. You can certainly walk from this pier to the downtown area, however our experience has often been that it’s really hot, and taxis are plentiful and cheap.

Royal Caribbean Celebrity and Norwegian Cruise Line often dock at this cruise terminal.

Pro tip: After an excursion, consider heading into the Royal Village Shopping Mall, right across the street from the pier. It’s a good place for souvenirs, handicrafts and t-shirts. However the best part is that it is air conditioned!

Puerto Maya

Puerto Maya is the cruise terminal farthest from Downtown, but closest some of Cozumel’s most popular beaches. This cruise terminal has several restaurants and popular bars, and opportunities to shop for silver jewelry, pottery, t-shirts and vanilla to take back home.

Cozumel – What Cruise Passengers Need to Know

The currency used in Cozumel is the Mexican Peso (MXN), however US dollars are readily and happily accepted.

Major credit cards are also accepted, however you’ll want to keep some smaller bills 1$, 5$, 10$ handy for cab rides and for shopping at the local shops and markets.

Spanish is the official language in Cozumel, but many locals working in tourist areas speak English. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience.

Cozumel, a tropical island in the Caribbean, experiences warm temperatures ranging from 75°F to 88°F throughout the year. The hottest months are typically June through September, with higher humidity levels.

The dry season spans from November to April, with lower chances of rain. The rainy season typically occurs from June to October, with a higher chance of tropical showers or storms.

Cozumel is in the Eastern Standard Time (EST) zone.

Getting Around Cozumel

Cozumel is an easy great cruise port to visit with a shore excursion, or on your own. Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and if you are docked closest to the Downtown, you can explore on foot.

Scooter or Car Rental

Renting a scooter or car is also an option if you want to explore the island independently. However, it’s best to exercise caution and this is generally not recommended by the cruise line.

A ferry is available as well. Be careful if taking a ferry on your own, and make sure to check the schedule carefully so that you don’t risk not making it back to the ship before boarding time.

The easiest and safest way to visit the attractions in Cozumel is to take a taxi. In fact, many of the best beaches in Cozumel are only about 15 minute cab ride away. 

When you exit the cruise port terminal building, you’ll find the taxi area with the taxi fares displayed. Fares to most beaches on the west side are about 6$ a person/per way. If you have more people in your party, the cost may be lower.

25 Best Things to Do in Cozumel Cruise Port

Here are the best things to do in Cozumel on a cruise, from shore excursions to activities you can do on your own.

Free Things to Do in Cozumel

Overall, Cozumel is not an expensive island to visit. In fact, there are many inexpensive and even, free things to do In Cozumel for the day in port.

1. San Miguel

San Miguel is in the downtown area of Cozumel. It’s closest to the Punta Langosta pier, so its actually an easy walk. If you’re at one of the piers further west, you can either take a longer walk, or take a 10 minute cab ride. Since Cozumel tends to be very hot, a cab ride may be your best bet!

In San Miguel, you’ll find many local shops selling souvenirs, local crafts, silver jewelry, beautiful white cotton casual and beach wear. You can also stop in at a local restaurant where you can find authentic Mexican cuisine.

If you enjoy just getting out and walking, the waterfront view is gorgeous, and of course, window shopping is free. You can also walk and stop in at Benito Juarez Park and visit the charming (and old) San Miguel Church.

 2. Playa Corona Beach

While you won’t get all the bells and whistles that comes with some of the all-inclusive resort style beach resorts, this free beach has amazing snorkeling! Plus, its only a 15 minute cab ride away from the pier.

You can enter this beach for free and bring your own snorkel gear. They do also rent equipment if you need it.

There is also a family owned bar and restaurant on site if you decide to sit and grab a bite.

Pro tip: While other activities mentioned below are not free things to do in Cozumel, there are a few that are inexpensive. Cozumel is a port where you can enjoy and keep to a budget.

Family Friendly Activities in Cozumel

Cozumel has some of the best activities for families. Whether you’re looking for a beach day or a family adventure, you’ll find it here. The beach clubs in Cozumel are a popular day trip option for both adults and kids.

3. Paradise Beach Club

Located about 5 miles from International Pier, Paradise beach is a 10 to 15 minute cab away. Paradise Beach in Cozumel has been a fan favorite for years, and it just keeps getting better!

You’ll find a beautiful heated resort style pool, a stunning beach front, and clean facilities at this resort beach club. You can reserve an all inclusive option in advance on their website, great for a worry free day in Cozumel cruise port.

Additionally, you can purchase a fun pass for a large inflatable water park which is quite popular! Something fun to know is that if you do use the water park, you also get access to the kayaks, which is a nice additional activity.

My family has been coming here for years, and we genuinely love it!

Related: Paradise Beach Cozumel Review with Directions from the Cruise Ship

4. Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

If you’re on a cruise, you’ve likely heard of Playa Mia. This is an excursion often offered by the cruise ship, however you can also book this on your own and even get transportation included.

This family friendly resort truly has a lot to offer.

Some of the main attractions with are included with your Beach Access Pass include a large pool, water-slides, young children’s splash park, floating water park, paddle boats, underwater Mayan village for snorkeling and more!

The “included” attractions are some of the best available at any beach resort day pass, however there are other experiences available at an additional cost.

If you would like food and drinks included, you can opt for a package which includes this.

5. Mr. Sanchos Beach Club

Mr. Sanchos is a very popular beach club for both families and couples alike. If you like to pay one price for all the food you can eat and frozen margaritas you can drink, checl out Mr. Sanchos for the day in Cozumel.

The beach is gorgeous, the food and drinks are good, and it is a 15 minute cab ride from the cruise port. Along with this, you can also kayak and enjoy a pool with a swim up bar.

Please note that although a lot is included, there is an additional charge for wave runners, para-sailing and the use of an inflatable water park.

Related: What to Pack in a Shore Excursion Bag (packing list)

6. Chakanaab Beach and Snorkel Park – Dolphin Discovery

Chakanaab Beach and Snorkel Park is unique in a world of beach resorts with pools and water-slides.

It’s actually a natural park located in the Marine National Park of Cozumel. If you are looking for a more authentic beauty in the marine life and botanicals, Chakanaab is a must!

At Chakanaab you can snorkel as well as swim and interact with dolphins and manatees.

This marine park is located about 15 minutes by cab from the cruise port.

Pro tip: Make sure to pack reef friendly sunscreen as Chakanaab Beach Adventure Park only permits reef safe sunscreen (all other sunscreens are banned)

7. Xcaret Park

While not located directly in Cozumel, Xcaret Park is a popular cruise excursion for both adults and kids. accessible via a ferry ride from the island. The park offers a mix of fun activities, natural wonders, cultural exhibits, and activities such as snorkeling in underground rivers and swimming with dolphins.

Something to note is that although this is a full day shore excursion, the park is approximately 1 and a half hours away from the cruise terminal.

8. Amazing Cozumel Race

Could this be any more fun for a family? Pretty close to the actual TV show, this is an off the beaten path family friendly scavenger hunt that cruise passengers rave about!

This is an active excursion which involves a lot of walking and even a boat ride, so just make sure the whole family is up for an enjoyable, but active day.

9. Cozumel Butterfly & Botanical Gardens

Located closeby to the cruise ship terminals, the Cozumel Butterfly & Botanical Gardens is a great activity for the whole family. The butterfly sanctuary has a netted tropical garden area with butterflies as well as beautiful botanical gardens and trees. In addition to seeing the colorful butterflies, there’s a pool, beach and snorkel area that you can enjoy. 

10. Mayan Bee Sanctuary

The Mayan Bee Sanctuary is interesting for people of all ages to discover the stingless bee and the Melipona honey. Learn about the bees and the Mayan culture, as well as have an oppotunity to enjoy delicious honey and artisan chocolate.

11. Cozumel Pearl Farm

A hidden gem in Cozumel is the Cozumel Pearl Farm. Take a guided tour of a pearl farm and learn about the fascinating process of pearl cultivation. Kids can discover how pearls are formed and even purchase their own unique souvenir.

Cozumel Pearl Farm is a unique family-owned pearl farm situated on the pristine north shore of Cozumel Island, accessible only by boat due to its location within a protected natural area. As the only active Pearl Farm in the Caribbean, it offers visitors an exclusive experience surrounded by untouched mangrove lagoons and the breathtaking turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

12. Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

If you’re looking for an excursion that feels less “touristy”, check out the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. Located on the southern tip of the island, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park offers nature trails, lagoons, and a beach where couples and families can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Cozumel.

Pro tip: Climb the historic lighthouse for an incredible panoramic view.

13. Atlantis Submarine

The Atlantis Submarine excursion is a great family activity. You can explore the Caribbean Sea from the most unique vantage point! The comfortable state of the art submarine is great for viewing colorful reefs, fish and turtles.

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Best Cozumel Excursions for Couples

Many couples cruise to celebrate a special occasion like an anniversary , so why not plan a romantic day in Cozumel?

14. Nachi Cocum Beach Club

There are a lot of very beautiful beaches and resort areas. However, Nachi Cocum offers a more exclusive beach day experience than what you’ll find at some of the more family friendly beach resorts.

At Nachi Cocum you’ll get an all-inclusive beach break excursion. It offers a beautiful beach, pool and jacuzzi and more. However, what sets it apart is that is limits the number of guests to only 130. Cozumel beaches can get very crowded, so having a more secluded beach feel is extra special.

15. Champagne Catamaran Sail and Snorkel

This is made for couples! Who wouldn’t enjoy sipping champagne while enjoying a romantic sail around the turquoise waters of Cozumel?

Cozumel has some of the best snorkeling in the world (it is home to the world’s second largest reef). If you don’t usually snorkel, why not give it a try? You’ll come back with amazing memories of your couples cruise.

16. Mr. Sanchos Beach VIP All Inclusive Romance Day

This is really a perfect day for those that are looking for a something romantic to do in Cozumel, while still enjoying one of the most popular spots close by to the cruise port.

Mr. Sanchos offers couples an all-inclusive food and drink package, along with a 30 minute massage, a beautiful cabana and some VIP treatment.

Mayan Ruins & Archeological Sites

Cozumel is well known for 2 archaeological sites. If you aren’t into beaches and water sports, and prefer learning and experiencing the culture when cruising, you will enjoy either of these Cozumel excursions.

17. Mayan Ruins of Tulum

Visiting Mayan Ruins is a bucket list item for many! One of the most well known and well preserved ruins are the Mayan Ruins in Tulum.

It’s known not only as an incredible archaeological site, and for it’s preserved temples and hieroglyphs, but also for it’s truly spectacular views overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This is definitely a place for Insta-worthy photos!

It’s about an hour away from Cozumel to Playa Del Carmen by ferry and is considered a full day excursion. While you can book this on your own, depending on what time your ship is due to leave the port, you may want to book this with the ship.

18. San Gervasio Ruins

If you would like to visit Mayan Ruins which are closer to the ship than Tulum, opt for an excursion to San Gervasio. These ruins are considered to be significant to the Mayan culture and an interesting archaeological site, which is only about 30 minutes away from the Cozumel cruise port.

A bonus is that there is the small entrance fee of 5$, so this is a relatively inexpensive Cozumel shore excursion.

Museums and Mayan Culture

19. discover mexico park cozumel.

There’s quite a lot to do at this cultural theme park, located about 10 minutes from the cruise port. Things to do include a museum of Mexican traditional arts, a video experience room, a unique take on a botanical garden, and performances by Papantla Flyers.

On top of this, they offer some add-on tours for those that are interested. One tour that is quite popular is the Jose Cuervo tequila tasting.

20. Museum of Cozumel (Museo de la Isla de Cozumel)

Located in the San Miguel area of Cozumel, this small museum offers great information about Cozumel’s history including it’s Mayan past, it’s geography and it’s ecological side. You’ll also see ancient artifacts all for 4$ a person. There’s a nice restaurant on site with a beautiful view should you decide to stay for lunch.

21. Amazing Secret River

For something completely different and unique, consider visiting Amazing Secret River. This is an underground river within stunning crystal caves where stalagmites surround you. This is a guided tour where you will get wet, as you’ll be swimming or wading through the waters.

This is located in Playa Del Carmen rather than on the mainland, so you will have to take a boat-ride there. My recommendation is to book with the cruise line or ensure you book with a reputable tour operator.

22. Take a Jeep or ATV Tour to Jade Cavern

The ultimate fun excursion is an off-road trip over to Jade Caverns by Jeep or ATV. You’ll see wildlife and vegetation along the way. Once you arrive at Jade Caverns, you’ll enjoy swimming in the breathtaking natural pool. If you’ve been to a Cozumel beach in the past, this is be a fun way to see a different part of the island.

23. Cozumel Horseback Riding at Mr. Sanchos Beach Club

If you’ve always wanted to go horseback riding on the beach, check out the horseback riding tour at Mr. Sanchos. This is a 30 minute tour with a guide through the mangrove forests and jungle, before getting to the white sand beach and turquoise waters.

Pro tip: Make sure to sign up as soon as you get to the beach club, as there could be a waiting time.

24. Jeep or ATV Tour & Beach Break

Explore Cozumel’s rugged terrain by jeep or ATV. You’ll drive through the jungle, visit secluded beaches, and have the opportunity to snorkel in pristine waters.

25. Cozumel Highlights Tour

Can’t decide what to do in Cozumel? Many cruise lines offer organized shore excursions that provide a comprehensive overview of Cozumel’s highlights. These tours typically include visits to popular attractions such as the San Gervasio Ruins, beaches, and shopping areas.

Cozumel Food & Drink Tours

One of the best parts of travel is trying the local cuisine and enjoying the variety of food and drink. Cozumel has many restaurants and bars available, however if you want an authentic experience, these are 2 highly recommended Cozumel shore excursions for foodies.

26. Cozumel Food Tour

If you love food and culture, you’ll really enjoy eating and learning about Yucatan cuisine. This is an opportunity to visit a few of the “best eats” in Cozumel and taste authentic Mexican cuisine. Enjoy beer and a local beverage agua fresca along with delicious pastries. My mouth was watering as I wrote this!

27. Tequila Tasting Tour

It wouldn’t be Mexico if we didn’t include a Tequila Tasting Tour. This tour is housed in Discover Mexico Park Cozumel and it’s about more than drinking tequila.

While you’ll taste several tequilas, you’ll also visit the facilities and learn about how tequila is made. Cruisers report enjoying small margaritas and very tasty tacos, and even learning how to make margaritas at home.

28. Chocolate Workshop at Discover Mexico Park in Cozumel

If you’re a chocolate lover, don’t miss the Chocolate Workshop at Discover Mexico Park in Cozumel. During this popular excursion, you’ll learn about the history and process of chocolate production, participate in a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, and sample different types of chocolate.

29. Eat & Drink at Fat Tuesdays or 3 Amigos

Located near the cruise ship terminals, head into Fat Tuesday’s or 3 Amigos for awesome frozen drinks, music and tons of fun! Enjoy tacos and other yummy Mexican fare with your favorite beverage while watching the nearby cruise ships in port.

Cozumel Shopping

30. best cozumel souvenirs.

Cozumel is well known for having some of the best prices on souvenirs and other goods. If you’re looking to take home more than memories, here are some of the best things to buy in Cozumel

• Mexican Handcrafted Art: Beautiful ceramics, pottery, and textiles reflecting Mexican culture.
• Silver Jewelry: Elegant necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings showcasing local craftsmanship.
• Mayan-inspired Crafts: Intricately carved stone sculptures, colorful textiles, and symbolic masks.
• Vanilla and Spices: Pure Mexican vanilla extract, vanilla beans, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and chili powder.
• Mexican Tequila and Mezcal: Authentic spirits with distinctive flavors, perfect for savoring the taste of Cozumel.

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Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Cozumel

Whether you book a shore excursion with the cruise line, a local tour or explore on your own, there’s so much to do and see in Cozumel on a cruise!

Have you been to Cozumel, and if so, what do you like to do for the day in port?  Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

14 Comments

Great information! Cozumel has become one of our favorites, too! So many options to choose from. We really liked Chankanaab as a family. We played with the Manatees! Next month we plan to try Nachi Cocom.

Hi Jillian,

Chankanaab sounds so wonderful – I’ve only heard good things! I’d love to check out the manatees (they’re so cute!).

Let me know how you like Nachi Cocum :-).

Have a great cruise!

I enjoyed your blog. It has great content and useful information. I’ve been to Cozumel twice and would love to go again. Whenever you visit Austin Texas, be sure to check my blogs for things to do. https://nautisideboatrentals.com/blogs/

Thanks so much for your kind words. I’m so glad you found the info helpful.

I haven’t ever been to Texas, but would love to one day. I’ll be sure to check out your blog.

I have not been to Cozumel yet. Cruise is leaving in 10 days. One thing to note, a lot of tours do not operate on Sundays. It was a bit frustrating trying to find excursions that operate on Sundays.

That is frustrating. Did you end up booking with the cruise line in that case?

I recommend Money Bar for snorkeling. Its right on a reef so the snorkeling is great – saw a spotted eagle ray in March. Its a cheap and easy taxi ride and pay as you go. Overall a great day in Cozumel!

Great to know! Thanks for sharing Cheryl!

Hi ILANA we stop at Cozumel with our carribean cruise end July. We would love to do the 3 Reefs snorkling excursion. Can you recommend a good company Guide to take us?

We are a family of for (with 2 boys 14 and 18) and we come all the way from Morocco. Our first cruise trip ever. I your videos very useful 🙂

I don’t have a specific private excursion recommendation. You can always see reviews on Trip Advisor and other websites where you can see multiple reviews.

There are always snorkeling excursions available with the cruise line, so this may be worth checking for you.

Have a wonderful cruise!

Hi Ilana! We’re going on the Carnival Breeze cruise in July. It ports in western Cozumel. Are there any restaurants or public beach area where you can just sit in the sand in the port area? My husband really does not want to travel away from the pied. Thank you!

Yes, you’ll find lots closeby

Will be in Cozumel in January 2024. Have booked the Mayan ruins and chocolate tasting through RCL. It will be my first time cruising to Cozumel. Also, my first cruise going solo. Normally I am with family members. It will be different!! Love your youtube videos. Keep on keeping us informed!!

Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂

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23 Best Things to Do in Cozumel Cruise Port: Everything to Know

Over 3 million people cruise to Mexico’s most populated island every year and all of the mainstream cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises.  There’s a reason it’s one of the most visited cruise ports in the world.

As many as eight cruise ships could be in port at one time.

Personally, I love visiting Cozumel.  I love the weather, people, environment, beaches, and overall vibe.  Every time I visit I find something new, so this post will detail some unique and fun experiences you can have at this fantastic stop along your cruise.

From the pristine coral reefs and endless beaches to the plentiful shopping in town, Cozumel has something for everyone.  Oh, and there is even something for the Indiana Jones in you if you want to explore some archeological sites.

The weather in Cozumel is about as good as it gets throughout the year.  Average temperatures are in the 70’s and 80’s (Fahrenheit).

In this post we will give you some of the best things to do in Cozumel along with some helpful information on how to get around the island, what to expect, where to go, etc.

Cruise ports in Cozumel: How far are they from downtown?

This is a little confusing to cruise ship passengers who have never been to Cozumel before.   Even if you have been to Cozumel before you might get off the ship and not recognize your surroundings because you could be at a completely different pier than before.

There are 3 different cruise ship piers in Cozumel.  One is close to downtown and the other two are a few miles out.    So, let’s look at each terminal and its location.

• Punta Langosta . This pier is the closest to the downtown area, only about a 5-minute walk.  You can join a walking tour of San Miguel or just explore on your own without having to walk very far at all.
• International Pier .  This is where some of the larger cruise ships will dock: ships like Royal Caribbean Oasis class ships and larger Norwegian Cruise Line ships.  This is the oldest cruise pier in Cozumel and is about 3 miles from downtown.
• Puerta Maya . This pier was built by Carnival Corporation and is only used for Carnival owned ships.  It’s right next to International Pier.  It’s been nicknamed “Little Cozumel” as many shops, restaurants, and modern amenities are offered right within the terminal area.

Both International Pier and Puerta Maya are about 3 miles from San Miguel, but it is a safe and scenic walk to the downtown area which I have done a few times.   Taxis are cheap, but if you have extra time the walk is doable.

Sometimes, ships will have to anchor just offshore if it’s a very busy day with 7 or 8 cruise ships coming in.  In these cases the ships will tender passengers to some of the smaller piers near Puerta Maya.

23 Best Things to Do in Cozumel

So now let’s take a look at some things to do in Cozumel.   We’ll cover some of the best things to do on this island to give you some ideas for your upcoming excursions and adventures.

1.  Check out the amazing reefs

Cozumel is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef system in the world, and it is a paradise for those who like to dive and snorkel.

Because most of the island is surrounded by some of the most amazing coral reefs in the Western Caribbean, Cozumel has become a main attraction for thousands of expert divers every year.

Even if you just want to rent or bring along some snorkeling gear you will want to check out these pristine waters at one of the many coral reef locations.

Best places for snorkeling or diving:

• Villa Blanca Reef . Located between 2 cruise ship piers.  Wall after wall of beautiful reefs.
• Chankanaab Reef . Part of Chankanaab Park.  Reef is 300 yards from shore.  More on Chankanaab later.
• Paradise Reef . Near the marine park.  Lots of coral and sea life to see like nurse sharks and stingrays.  3 reefs 600 feet from the shore.
• Palancar Reef . Better for diving.   Stunning caves and drop-offs.
• El Cielo Reef . Great for beginner snorkelers.  Shallow water. Lots of starfish.
• Coral at Dzul Ha . 10 to 15 foot depth with plenty of lobster, crab, and all kinds of fish.   Near beach club and restaurant.
• Colombia Reef . Great for diving with 80 foot drop-off.  Find huge towers of coral, caves, caverns and marine creatures.

There are many more places you can dive and snorkel in Cozumel, so don’t look at this list as exhaustive. In fact, if you have a great reef to check out please let us know in the comment section below this post.  We will add it to the list if it looks good so everyone else can benefit.

The first time I went to Cozumel I brought my own snorkel gear and just pulled over at random places to check out the water.  It’s really hard NOT to see some amazing things in the water around Cozumel.

RELATED: Best Places in the Caribbean for Snorkeling

2.  Go on a Boat Tour

Since the water around Cozumel is so remarkable why not take a boat ride around it so you can see the whole thing on a shore excursion?

You can do this on a catamaran, glass-bottom boat, or even a private charter.   The nice thing about booking a snorkeling or diving excursion is that some of them will involve a boat ride to the reef and you will get to have a scenic boat ride at the same time.

3.  Take a Submarine Tour

Want to see the reefs without getting wet?  Then a submarine tour is just for you.   The submarine will descend 100 feet below the surface and will look through portholes to see amazing marine life, a sunken shipwreck, and even a 400 foot drop-off known as The Wall.

4.  Enjoy a Beautiful Beach Day (best beaches in Cozumel)

Cozumel has some of the most amazing beaches in all of Mexico and there are a variety to choose from.   You can choose a beach for it’s snorkeling opportunities, it’s relaxing atmosphere, or for its culinary delights that are nearby.

If you rent a vehicle you can just drive around to see the different beaches to see which is best for what you want your beach day to be like.  The eastern side of the island is rocky and exposed to the open ocean, but there are still some hidden away spots that are perfect for a beach day.

Here is a short list of some of our favorite beaches in Cozumel:

• Playa Chen Rio . On the eastern side but large rocks break up the surf. This is where some locals go and it’s not usually very crowded.  Some thick vegetation with sand and rocks.
• Playa Bonita . Romantic beach with white sands and gentle waves.  On the east.  Mayan ruins nearby.
• Playa Corona . Known for its great diving and underwater scenery.   Beach huts for shade.  On the west coast.
• Playa Uvas . If you want a Miami Beach kind of vibe with upscale loungers and shade spots this is your beach.
• Playa San Francisco . A lot of activities available at this popular 3 mile stretch of sand.
• Palancar Beach . 13 miles south of San Miguel.  Away from the hustle and bustle.  Lovely white sandy beach.

Are any beaches near the cruise ports in Cozumel ?  While there are some beaches close to Puerta Maya and International pier they will require a fee.  Park Royal Beach is just a 5-minute walk from these two terminals and will require $40 per person to access since it’s part of a hotel.  But the amenities and views from there are fantastic.

Have your own beach to add to this list?  Let us know in the comments below.

5.  Swim with stingrays

It’s an incredible experience to swim with the rays at Stingray Beach.  Don’t worry, the dangerous barbs have been removed.  You can both swim and snorkel with these amazing creatures.  It’s just a couple minutes from downtown.

6.  Visit Chankanaab National Park

It amazes me how many people have been to Cozumel and have never been to Chankanaab .  It’s one of my go-to places on the island.   It does cost $21 for adults and $14 for children to have access to the park, but once inside you will find enough things for everyone to do for the entire day.

There are great beaches, plenty of shaded loungers and hammocks, a pristine lagoon, alligators, a seal and sea lion show, dolphins, manatees, and so much more.  Want to just relax in a hammock tied to a couple palm trees while the kids go have fun?  This is your place in Cozumel.

If you want to swim with dolphins this is a great place to do it as well.

See a video of what Chankanaab is like below:

7.  Explore Mayan Ruins

Cozumel is not known for some of the most elaborate Mayan ruins in Mexico, but there are still some worth checking out if you are interested.

The largest Mayan ruins in Cozumel are at San Gervasio, located in the central part of the island.  This was a holy site dedicated to the goddess of fertility.

If you want truly spectacular Mayan ruins you can still see them during your cruise to Cozumel, but since they are on the main land of Mexico it will be an all-day event which will require a ferry ride.  Chichen Itza (recently named one of the 7 wonders of the world) and Tulum are the main Mayan sites you can see.  If you can only see one, check out Chichen Itza.  It’s truly spectacular.

8.  Tour the Chocolate Factory

I did the chocolate factory tour a few years ago and found it to be a really interesting experience.  It’s not a huge factory, but you get to see how the chocolate is locally made and then you get to make some yourself.  And of course the best part is sampling the chocolate after you are done.

It’s called Kaokao Chocolate Factory and is just a $15 or so cab ride away.  I recommend getting reservations ahead of time because time slots can fill up quickly.

9.  Zipline over Cozumel

There are a few different places for zipline thrill seekers.  Chankanaab does have a zipline course or you can take a zipline course that soars over some of the mangrove forest in Cozumel.  You will be 60 feet above the jungle floor and start off from 6 different canopy towers.    Most of the course can be done in about an hour so you will still have time for other activities.

10.  Go on a Cave Tour

Some of the most incredible caves are found on the mainland at Rio Secreto, where adventurers can explore a picturesque underwater river.  This place could easily be a wonder of the world.  Other cave tours start out with an ATV ride through the wild back roads of Cozumel.

11.  Go Horseback Riding

You’ve seen the pictures: a scenic beach background with someone riding a horse along the shoreline.  This is on my to-do list actually, and Cozumel is a great place to check it off.  You can ride horseback through the jungle and then along the beach, and then you can stop to get something to eat at Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club.

12.  Play a Round of Golf in Paradise

Cozumel Country Club is right near the shore and offers 18 holes of scenic beauty.  The fairways and greens may not be as lush as what you’re used to, but the wildlife and surroundings make up for it.  It’s about a 30 minute cab ride from the cruise port.

13.  Go Parasailing

The joy of parasailing is in the aerial views you get to soak in.  So, it’s even more enjoyable when those views are of some of the most pristine water along Mexico.    There’s just something about being hundreds of feet in the air, being pulled by a speed boat.   The only thing to keep in mind here is that you may be with a group.  This means you will have to wait your turn and may spend more time in the boat waiting than actually up in the air enjoying your parasailing experience.

14.  Join the Manatees for a Swim Encounter

This is also part of Chankanaab Park which is open from 9am to 5pm.  These slow-moving creatures are rarely seen in the wild so this excursion offers you the ability to get up close and personal with these “Mermaids of the Sea”.

15.  Join a Pirate Dinner Cruise

If you want to feel like a pirate for the day and get some great food along with some unique entertainment this is the activity for you.  I’ve read some rave reviews about the Jean Laffite Pirate Dinner Cruise but have not checked it out myself.   But for most cruises this option will take place too late in the day, so it’s really only doable if you are staying in Cozumel for a few nights.  It goes from 6pm to 9pm, but I still wanted to put it in this list.

16.  Hit the Shops

You don’t’ even have to leave the cruise terminal to find places to shop, but do yourself and the Cozumel locals a favor by venturing out and shopping from local vendors.  T-shirts and trinkets are incredible affordable and I haven’t found shop owners to be too pushy compared to other ports.

The Royal Village Shopping Center has some really interesting places to shop, including one place that sells all kinds of medieval type armor and décor.

Everyone needs at least 1 or 2 Mexican blankets at home and you will find them everywhere in Cozumel.

You can pay in pesos or US dollars.  In fact, you will see a lot of signs with prices in US dollars.

Important note: Just be careful on using local ATM machines.  Last time I used an ATM machine in Cozumel I had my card information hacked.  Stick to indoor bank ATM’s if you can and always cover your hand as you type in your pin.

17.  Discover Mexico

You can’t see all of Mexico during your cruise, but this little stop will allow you to at least feel like you did.  The tour at Discover Mexico Park will allow you to experience the taste, culture, history, heritage, art, and music of Mexico.  There are miniature scale models of famous sites from around Mexico and a tour guide will talk you through some of this country’s most important landmarks.

18.  See the Cozumel Pearl Farm

Not many cruisers venture up to the northern part of the islands to see this family-run pearl farm, but you should.  After seeing how the pearls are grown and harvested you can snorkel out to see the pearl hatchery.  While snorkeling you can see an underwater life-size Virgen de Guadalupe statue.  Tours can last about 6 hours.

19.  Take a Mini-Sub Dive Tour

If you love the idea of scuba diving but you want something a bit simpler, this might be the Cozumel activity for you.  No previous diving experience is required.  You simply “wear” a sort of “sub suit” that allows you to go 20 feet below the water and have unobstructed views of the marine life.  And with Cozumel’s reputation for great reefs and pristine coral, this is a great thing to do while cruising to this beautiful island.

20.  Join the Amazing Cozumel Race

Just like you’ve seen on TV, you can explore Cozumel while cracking clues, solving mysteries, and playing adventurous games with fellow travelers.   This competitive journey will take about 4.5 hours and there is a post-race award ceremony that follows.   People seem to really enjoy this excursion.  Even if the it ends up raining you won’t be able to dampen the fun vibe on this activity.

21.  Swim with Whale Sharks

Sure you can swim with dophins and stingrays on Cozumel, but if you really want to kick things up a notch and take some impressive photos for your friends back home, swimming with whale sharks is the ticket.  Every summer the whale sharks come in to the Yucatan Peninsula, so you can snorkel along with them during their annual migration (June – September).  The feeling of being so close to these immense creatures is unforgettable.

22.  Visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Nature lovers can indulge in the island’s largest ecological reserve at Punta Sur.   Whether you want to enjoy the white sandy beaches, climb the stairs to the historic Celarain Lighthouse, or catch up with the local crocodiles, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is a gem on Cozumel.   You can find a variety of flora, fauna, flowers, birds, and even sea turtles.  Visitors can also enjoy the Navigation Museum which is the old lighthouse keeper’s home.  There they will learn about the island’s rich history of Mayans and pirates that sailed the Caribbean waters.

23.  Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Cozumel Chef Food Tours

Are you a foodie?  Taste the full flavors of Mexico with a food tour that lets you sample the best the islands has to offer.  Cozumel Chef Food Tours is all-inclusive and takes you to a Yucatecan restaurant, a traditional Mexican market, a bakery, and a few other stops along the way on this 3 hour tour.  Want to taste a truly authentic quesadilla?  This is a food tour you will brag about when you get home.  The cost is $80 per person, and the tours typically start at 11am, perfect for cruise passengers.

You can also eat at some local restaurants yourself.  Here are some places to eat in Cozumel that some of our readers have recommended:

• Los Tacotales –  A great affordable option for street tacos and pozole in an open-air restaurant.
• Casa Cuzamil – For seafood lovers on a budget, get your fix of shrimp tacos, grilled fish, and ceviche.  There’s also a sports bar here.
• La Cocay – This Mediterranean and Italian steakhouse has a lovely garden setting and serves everything from small plates and tapas to steaks and pizza.
• La Candela – A popular place among the locals of Cozumel, this restaurant serves Mexican and Caribbean entrees for mid-range prices.  I really enjoyed my experience here.  Great portions for hot meals in the heart of town.
• Ix Kool Mayan – If you want true, authentic Mayan dishes, this is the place for you.  A higher-end restaurant, this establishment serves pork panucho, cochinita and other delicacies you will be hard pressed to find anywhere else.
• Guido’s – A combination of seafood and Italian dishes, Guido’s offers a fine dining experience with open-air seating.  Both the service and food are typically very good.
• Buccanos At Night – Situated right on the coast, this restaurant is known for elegant dining and exquisite dishes.  You can order seafood or local dishes at Buccanos at Night, which is considered by many to be one of the best places to eat on the island.

Other Helpful Info When Visiting Cozumel

Renting a vehicle.

There is a plethora of options for renting a vehicle and driving around Cozumel as well.  The island is easy to navigate in a matter of a couple hours if you don’t make too many stops.

The best way to tour Cozumel in your rental is to start by heading south and drive along the shoreline.  If you’re driving a scooter or bike you will have your own road to travel on, making the journey stress-free.  The further you get away from the city the more open and serene the landscape becomes.

How big is Cozumel? The whole island is 28 miles long and about 10 miles wide.  I have rented both cars and scooters to drive around Cozumel. 

One thing that should be noted about renting a car, though.  If you do happen to damage the vehicle in any way you may be required to pay for the repairs before you leave the island.   I’ve never had any mishaps, but I have heard that this can be an issue.

As soon as you get off the ship you will find vendors who are able to find you just about any type of vehicle to rent if you want to explore on your own.

Renting Bikes and Scooters

Some of the downtown area can get crowded with cars and people, but if you want to venture out on your own renting a bike might be a good option.  There are many shops that will rent scooters and bikes.  If you don’t want to have to work too much electric scooters area available too.  And if you want to go beach hopping on your bike you can get one with fatter tires.

Taxis in Cozumel

If you want to take a taxis in Cozumel it is easy and affordable.  The prices are set, and you don’t need to negotiate.  There is a slightly higher price if you have more than 4 people and a bit more if you have 6-8 people in your group.

I recommend grabbing a local taxi right at the cruise port to make sure you’re getting the real deal.

You can pay with US dollars, but it will be cheaper if you exchange for pesos first and use them.  Credit cards are not accepted by taxi drivers so you will need to pay in cash.  Also, a 10-15% tip is appreciated.

Here are some prices you can use as a sample for taxi ride rates. (These prices will more than likely be different when you travel and are just for reference.)  Prices are in US Dollars and are from the starting point of Puerta Maya:

• Downtown: $8.00
• Discover Mexico: $8.00
• Chankanaab: $12.00
• Chocolate Factory: $11.00
• Playa Corona: $13.00
• Punta Sur: $35.00
• Airport: $16.00
• Full Island Tour: $100.00

Take a ferry

Cozumel is just 12 miles from the mainland of Mexico. Many cruisers love to take the 45-minute ferry from Cozumel to Play Del Carmen to check out some great resorts and beaches.

If you’re going to see some Mayan ruins on the mainland you will end up on a ferry to the mainland.  But if you want to pay for it yourself to check out Playa Del Carmen it will cost around $10.

The ferry port is not far from downtown, so hopping on the ferry to see some more sights in Mexico might make sense if you have time during your cruise.  Some excursions also require a ferry ride to the mainland to see Mayan Ruins or explore scenic caves.

Where to eat in Cozumel?

The non-adventurous will be glad to know there are a few American staples in Cozumel.   There is a Subway, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks right near the Punta Langosta terminal and even a Burger King further inland.

But for those who want a truly authentic experience Cozumel does not disappoint.  There is a myriad of restaurants.  You can get a casual, relaxing dining experience at one of the many eateries along the beach or try something more upscale.

I’ve had some incredibly delicious tacos just by stopping at one of the local vendors along the shoreline.  And don’t forget to get some local churros.

Cozumel is an island that is known for exquisite seafood combined with common Mexican foods as tortillas, beans, and salsa.   You can find affordable lobster dishes and plenty of options especially in the main city of San Miguel.

Of course Cozumel has the iconic Senor Frogs and Bubba Gump Shrimp if you want an old standby.

Here are a few places we recommend for eating in Cozumel:

• Costa Brava .  Love eating here. Authentic Mexican food at a reasonable price. Friendly staff.
• Casa Mission .  For truly local Mexican food and seafood.  Located near the center of San Miguel
• La Mission Restaurant . Traditional Mexican food right near the shore.  Really great décor and great food.
• Guido’s Restaurant . Swiss-Italian restaurant with a beautiful patio and daily specials.  Right on the main street of San Miguel with great views of the ocean.
• Pepe’s Grill . Upscale dining with amazing seafood.  Owned by one of the oldest family’s on Cozumel.

Have you eaten in Cozumel and want to let us know a great place to check out?  Let us know in the comment section so the rest of our readers can benefit as well.

We Want to Hear from You

What are some things to do in Cozumel that you would add to the list?  Let us know in the comments below so everyone can benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Cozumel Cruise Port

Q: how can i get to playa del carmen from cozumel cruise port.

A: Playa del Carmen is a popular destination located on the mainland, just a short 45-minute ferry ride away from Cozumel. You can easily take a ferry from the ferry terminal in Cozumel to Playa del Carmen and explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and beaches.

Q: Where can I find a taxi at Cozumel Cruise Port?

A: Taxis are readily available at the Cozumel Cruise Port. You can find taxi stands near the cruise terminal where you can easily hail a taxi to take you to your desired destination on the island.

Q: What is Puerta Maya?

A: Puerta Maya is a popular cruise ship port in Cozumel. It is one of the main cruise ship terminals in Cozumel and is known for its convenient location near many tourist attractions and activities.

Q: What is the best way to explore Cozumel during a cruise?

A: Personally, I prefer to explore Cozumel on my own.  If you’re new to the island you can just hire a tax to take you to all the best spots and get an overview of the island.  But for those worried about getting back to the ship on time, it’s best to just take book a shore excursion.  I’ve booked excursions, hired taxis, rented scooters, and rented cars in Cozumel, and it’s a very easy place to navigate.

Q: Can I visit Cozumel independently without a shore excursion?

A: Yes, you can certainly explore Cozumel independently without a shore excursion. The port area is well-connected to the rest of the island, and you can easily hire a taxi or rent a car to explore the island at your own pace.

Q: What are some popular cruise itineraries that include Cozumel?

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We rented a jeep and toured the island. Our favourite restaurant was Carlos & Charlies. https://www.carlosncharliesbeachclub.com/eng/location.html . It is a fun place to eat. The staff all have a good time and will take your picture with all the staff in it.

We like to go to Ernesto’s to eat. It is right on the ocean and the food it great!

Any suggestions on a parasailing company to use? My cruise ship does not offer through excursion, so we will have to find something on our own in Cozumel.

My chef husband and I took an excellent cooking class (with a lunch of our dishes) at Josefina’s Cooking School – Josefina’s Cocina Con Alma, http://www.cozumelchef.com – which also included a shopping trip to a local market and the opportunity to get tortillas hot from the oven! The food we made was unique and delicious, as were the margaritas we made 🙂 , we got to see a lovely residential neighborhood off the beaten tourist path, a great recipe book of dishes you do Not see on most USA Mexican menus, and my husband added several of the dishes we made to the menu at our Inn in West Virginia!

Thanks so much for passing that along, Elisse! Sounds like you had a wonderful time treating your palates in Cozumel.

thank you, excellent informations

You need to try Ernesto’s Fajitas, just about 2/3 blocks to the left of the International Pier. We have eaten three for years. Jose is the best waiter. A view of your ship from the terrace is a plus if you are docked at this pier. Best shrimp fajitas, quacamole, and key lime pie.

Awesome tip, Barb! Thanks so much for stopping by and helping our readers find another great place to eat in Cozumel. I will have to try Ernesto’s next time I’m in Cozumel.

Jonathan, great information, but what about handicapped access? I must use a walker and The Bride uses a cane. Are any parts handicapped friendly? What about the streets? Do some cruise ships have to use a tender? Your suggestions would be appreciated.

I’m not sure how much help I can offer but you don’t have to walk very far off the ship before you can find a taxi or car service to pick you up and take you where you want to go. Once you get into town the sidewalks are not very handicap friendly as there is a lot of uneven pavement. I do remember seeing some beach wheelchairs at the beach at Chankanaab Park and that’s a great place to spend the day relaxing. Almost all the ships will be at a pier and will not need to use a tender. Only if all the piers are full does a ship need to use a tender at Cozumel. Hope this helps.

Found this post on Pinterest right before I left on a trip with a bunch of people who didn’t want to pay the money for the excursions. We decided to eat at La Mission upon your advice and we loved it! The atmosphere was great especially since it seemed 10 degrees cooler inside. The food was great and the staff was too. Probably the cleanest bathroom in Mexico as well. Thank you for a great post.

That’s so great to hear, Tiffany! Glad you enjoyed your dining experience at La Mission and thanks so much for coming back to let us know. That means a lot!

The trip to the San Gervasio Ruins is very worth it. I was there probably 20 years ago & excavation was ongoing. Would love to return to see what’s new. Lots of iguanas there – we were there during mating season so saw some beautiful colors.

Don’t miss Pancho’s Backyard downtown! Best Margaritas in Cozumel! Me. San his all day all inclusive beach club. #1 place to spend the day!??! Trust me!

Thanks for the informative and detailed information on Cozumel! We visited there on a cruise many years ago and missed nearly everything listed in the article, but still loved this beautiful island.

Another noteworthy thing for those travelers who like to see the biggest/smallest/longest/oldest etc things on their travels, as our kids do, Cozumel is home to the smallest Hard Rock Cafe in the world. Not very Mexican, but a great place to stop for a chocolate shake on a hot day!

Thank you Jonathan for those great tips! Next time you come to Cozumel, try out the free walking tour 🙂

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29 Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise Day in Port

• November 29, 2023
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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

TripAdvisor Reviews

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)
• 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

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)
• 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)
• 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)
• Crowd level: Not too crowded
• 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)
• 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)  
• Crowd level: Crowded

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)
• 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)
• 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 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. 

• The Best Restaurants in Cozumel Near the Cruise Port
• The Best Beaches in Cozumel Near the Cruise Port
• Cruise Ports in the Western Caribbean Islands You should Visit

Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

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This 185-square-mile Island Is Mexico's Most Popular Cruise Port — but It's Still Home to Under-the-radar Restaurants and Local-loved Beaches

Cozumel, Mexico, has all the ingredients for a perfect beach vacation — with a twist.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best shopping, best nightlife, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Semyon Nazarov/Getty Images

Cozumel, the largest of Mexico's islands in the Caribbean Sea, has everything you’d want from a typical beach getaway: white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back lifestyle. But for some Mexican flair, it also offers Mayan ruins, traditional Yucatecan cuisine, and lots of beach bars to snag a tropical tequila-based beverage. 

The 185-square-mile island happens to be the most popular cruise port in Mexico, and its main town, San Miguel, hums with foot traffic thanks to the large volume of ships that call here every year. As you can imagine, San Miguel can be an overwhelming blend of souvenir stands and overpriced restaurants, but if you know where to look, you can find the real-deal eateries and locals-only beaches that fly under the radar. Venturing beyond the small town puts you at the doorstep of a protected natural environment and some of the very best scuba diving and snorkeling on the planet.

"Cozumel is a a limestone island in the Caribbean Sea. It's basically the terminus of the second-longest barrier reef in the world, and it's one of the busiest cruise ship ports. It sees around 3,000 ships a year carrying more than four million passengers," said Zach Rabinor , CEO of Journey Mexico and a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor. "The island is dominated by the cruise trade and swarms with local merchants hawking everything from tours to time-share real estate. That said, it has its own charm and there are pockets of local flavor."

Whether you’re visiting for just a few hours, or planning to spend several nights, Cozumel has enough to fill an itinerary. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite tips on where to go, what to see, and where to eat while visiting Cozumel.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Book a room at the best beachfront resort on the island, the InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa. 
• Swim among the stars at the world-famous Playa El Cielo.
• Pick up a bottle of organic vanilla, handcrafted silver, or a handmade hammock in downtown San Miguel.
• Grab the world’s best mojito on the Atlantic side of the island at The Coconut Shack.
• Have an intimate home-cooked meal at La Casita de Indio.

Courtesy of Iberostar Cozumel

InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa

A Cozumel institution, the InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa has a lengthy white-sand beach and five-star accommodations. The chic, spacious rooms offer spectacular Caribbean Sea views, and guests who want to experience Cozumel’s world-class diving can use the on-site dive center, or unwind at the spa.

The Explorean Cozumel

This adults-only all-inclusive may not be right on the beach, but don't let that dissuade you. It's an upscale experience chock-full of inclusions, from daily guided snorkeling expeditions to horseback riding, kayaking, and driving dune buggies. It's also a quick walk to the beach at the sibling resort, Fiesta Americana Cozumel.

Iberostar Cozumel

One of the best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Cozumel, Iberostar Cozumel has a quiet stretch of beach, two large pools, a spa, and a kids' club. It's a great option for travelers who prefer to distance themselves from busy San Miguel and want front-row seats to the best diving on the island.

Fiesta Americana Cozumel

While The Explorean is adults-only, its sibling resort, Fiesta Americana Cozumel , welcomes families to its oceanfront location. Guests can expect a private boat dock with overwater beds, suites with balconies, and five restaurants. 

James R.D. Scott/Getty Images

Dive the Mesoamerican Reef.

Cozumel is perched at the northern tip of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System — the second-largest barrier reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef. Teeming with wildlife, including colorful coral, a kaleidoscope of fish, sea turtles, and sharks, the reef system is one of the star attractions in Cozumel and diving is a top priority for visitors.

Snorkel Playa El Cielo.

You don't have to be PADI-certified or go very far offshore to have an epic underwater experience in Cozumel. Off the southern coast of the island is a beach called Playa El Cielo, famous for the thousands of underwater starfish scattered across the fine white sand, much like stars in the sky. El Cielo translates to "heaven," and it will be no surprise why this beach bears its name. "El Cielo is an incredible shoal/sandbar, and it's only accessible by boat. It's a 30-minute trip and absolutely worth it for those wishing to escape the more crowded beaches," said Rabinor.

Visit Isla Pasion.

As if Cozumel doesn't have enough pristine beachfront, many day trippers to the island like to pop over to the nearby uninhabited Isla Pasion. The dreamy island has crystal-clear water, sun-bleached sand, and plenty of activities to keep visitors occupied, from kayaks and hammocks to beach volleyball, buffet-style restaurants, and bars. Lots of cruise lines also offer packages for excursions to Isla Pasion, so it's easy to squeeze in a visit.

Head to the beach clubs.

Cozumel has its own picture-perfect beaches and beach clubs, too. Most day trippers visiting on a cruise will stick to the beach clubs facing the calm Caribbean Sea and Playa del Carmen skyline. These spots have restaurants, showers, and restrooms, as well as plenty of water sports. For the more local beaches, which are often less crowded and less developed, head to the eastern coast of the island. These stretches face the Atlantic Ocean and are much more rugged, albeit beautiful.

Drive around the island.

Whether on two wheels or four, the best way to see the most of Cozumel is to get out on the road. One highway circumvents the island and along the way are many different points of interest, from beach clubs to Mayan ruins to the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. 

Ant DM/Getty Images

Los Cinco Soles

Being the most popular cruise port in Mexico means Cozumel has its fair share of souvenir stores. But the one to beat them all is Los Cinco Soles . Unlike other busy cruise port shops, Los Cinco Soles is at the far end of downtown and widely considered to have the best selection of handcrafts, silver, and naturally grown vanilla.

Muebles Rústicos Santa Cruz

This quirky furniture store is packed with some beautifully handcrafted wooden pieces. While you may not be able to bring that ornately carved headboard on the plane or cruise ship, you can certainly find lots of other treasures, from artwork and ceramics to cool lamps and picture frames.

Sergio's Silver

Mexican silver is a great trinket to bring home, and on Cozumel, Sergio's has the best selection of jewelry. Plus, the centrally located shop is within walking distance of the cruise terminal downtown. 

jorge ivan vasquez cuartas/Getty Images

The Money Bar

Cozumel locals and longtime visitors know The Money Bar well. This island institution is a must for a sundowner, with a two-for-one happy hour and live music on Thursday through Sunday evenings.

The Coconut Shack

If you’re exploring the eastern coast of the island, be sure to schedule a stop at The Coconut Shack. This ramshackle beach bar has a handful of plastic tables out back overlooking the water, a few colorful hammocks, and next-level mojitos.

Mezcalito's

While you're over on the eastern side of the island, leave some time to visit Mezcalito's, one of the oldest bars on Cozumel. Open since 1979, this watering hole offers a casual, toes-in-the-sand experience with palapa-topped umbrellas and endless Atlantic Ocean views.

No Name Bar

Tucked inside Hotel Barracuda, No Name Bar is another Cozumel staple. A beach club by day, sports bar by night, this oceanfront club has strong drinks, no cover charge, and free Wi-Fi. 

El Cielo Lounge Bar

There's a certain kitsch factor at El Cielo Lounge Bar , from the neon cursive signs encouraging bad decisions to the electric blue cocktails and clouds of hookah smoke. But that's also what devotees love about this place. Cozumel may be small, but it knows how to party into the wee hours, and you'll often find people pushing their bedtimes at El Cielo.

Elijah-Lovkoff/Getty Images

Aqui + Ahora

Sometimes, all you need is a strong cup of coffee and a menu that serves breakfast till noon. That's what you'll get at Aqui + Ahora , a coffee shop with a prime location across from the ferry terminal. I love this spot for its sleek decor, sea views, and long list of great juices. The Yucatan Dream 85 is a must.

Beach clubs are a dime a dozen on Cozumel, but Buccanos stands out in the best way. Located in the North Hotel Zone, it's centrally located with a sandy beach and laid-back vibe. It also has some of the best seafood in town. Expect to pay tourist prices, but that's the norm on Cozumel. By night, Buccanos puts on a spectacular sunset dinner experience. It's best to make reservations far in advance, if possible.

La Casita de Indio

You won't find any other experience like La Casita de Indio on Cozumel. If you're someone who loves a local connection, this is the dining experience to try. "This local spot has a family cooking for you in their own home," said Rabinor. "They even encourage you to go to the fish market and bring them the catch of the day, which they will prepare for you. They prepare a mean coconut shrimp."

Guido's

If you're craving something other than Mexican, Guido's serves up great Swiss Italian cuisine in a lovely courtyard. Rabinor said the fish carpaccio and the black linguine Frutti di Mare is excellent.

mikolajn/Getty Images

The best time to visit Cozumel is between December and April, particularly if you want a beach getaway. This period is the peak season, marked by sunny days and little to no rainfall. For ideal weather — not too hot and with a cool breeze at night — January and February are the best times to plan a trip.

However, if you want the best conditions for scuba diving, consider June through December. The summer is the hottest time of year, and you'll experience the most rainfall in late summer and early fall, but you'll also be able to snag considerable travel deals and see lots of activity beneath the water's surface. 

If you plan to visit from August through October, you'll be traveling during peak hurricane season. Travel prices are at their lowest during this time, so you'll want to use those extra savings to get yourself some travel insurance, just in case you get rained out.

For an island that's only 185 square miles, there are a surprising number of ways to get there. The easiest way to reach Cozumel is to fly directly into its airport (CZM). The small Aeropuerto Internacional de Cozumel receives flights from American, Delta, Southwest, United, Volaris, Aeromexico, Air Canada, WestJet, and Sun Country Airlines. 

Another easy way to get to Cozumel is to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen. The popular Ultramar ferry has continuous departures from Playa del Carmen's main pier to Cozumel. The trip is about 45 minutes.

The third way visitors get to Cozumel is via a cruise stopover. Cozumel is the busiest cruise port in Mexico, with its three piers seeing as many as seven ships at once during high season. 

Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Cozumel is a small but well-maintained island with a ring road, as well as one that bisects the island. It only takes an hour to drive around the island. 

Downtown San Miguel is walkable, but if you want to go further afield, you may need some wheels. Fortunately, cabs are found around the island, but due to demand, prices can get expensive. You can rent your own set of wheels on Cozumel to have a bit more flexibility for getting around. Note that while you may see a lot of tourists on scooters, the accident rate on Cozumel is extremely high, so be sure you know what you're doing before you rent one on the island.

Related Articles

Cozumel Mexico Things To Do Near The Cruise Port: What to know

Cozumel is a vibrant island nestled in the Caribbean Sea. It is a haven for passengers cruising and seeking an unforgettable experience. Known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse marine life. Cozumel, Mexico, near the Cruise Port, offers an array of nearby things to do. That caters to every kind of traveler. As you step off your cruise ship. You’re immediately welcomed by both the warm Mexican hospitality and the promise of adventure. Whether it’s lounging at a beach club, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or indulging in the local cuisine. Cozumel thus guarantees a memorable visit.

Welcome To Cozumel, Mexico Near Cruise Ships: A Tropical Port of Call

Each location in Cozumel offers a unique set of experiences, from cultural and historical exploration to beach relaxation and adventure sports.

Why Cozumel, Mexico, near the Cruise Port for things to do?

• Pristine Beaches : Home to some of the world’s best beaches.
• Rich Culture : A deep historical and cultural heritage, particularly from the Mayan civilization.
• Diverse Marine Life : Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, offering superb snorkeling and diving experiences.

What Things to do at the Top Cozumel Mexico Beach Clubs near the cruise ports

As you plan your day in Cozumel while cruising, consider visiting one of the many beach clubs located near the cruise port for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. These clubs provide the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment, with options to suit all preferences.

Mr. Sanchos Beach Club

Known for its all-inclusive day pass, Mr. Sanchos Beach Club offers an immersive beach experience. Here, you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks, relax in beach palapas, or engage in various water activities, including kayaking.

Paradise Beach Club

This club is famous for its ‘Fun Day’ pass, which grants access to a unique ocean water park, complete with inflatable trampolines and slides. Additionally, kayaks and snorkeling gear are available for those seeking a more active beach day.

Cabana Beach Club

For a more exclusive experience, Cabana Beach Club offers private VIP cabanas and concierge service, making it an ideal choice for those seeking luxury and privacy.

Isla Pasión

This secluded island at the north end of Cozumel provides a tranquil getaway with its tour packages that include lounge chairs, hammocks, a water park, and inclusive lunch and beverages.

Each of these beach clubs offers a unique way to experience the beauty and serenity of Cozumel’s coastline. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly environment or a more secluded spot, there’s a beach club for every preference.

Cozumel Mexico things to do: A Shopper’s Paradise Near the Cruise Port

As you step off the cruise ship and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cozumel, you’re greeted by a shopping paradise that blends traditional charm with modern convenience. From bustling local markets to serene art galleries, Cozumel offers an array of shopping experiences that cater to every taste and preference.

Explore what things to do at San Miguel’s Shops near the Cozumel Mexico Cruise port

San Miguel, the heart of Cozumel, is a treasure trove of unique finds. Here, you can discover:

• Talavera Pottery : A colorful array of plates, ornaments, and mugs that bring a fiesta vibe to your home.
• Alebrijes : These brightly painted wooden spirit animals, both whimsical and mystical, are perfect keepsakes.
• Handmade Sarongs : Adorn yourself with these beautiful, locally crafted garments, perfect for beach days.

The Punta Langosta Mall Experience near the Cozumel Mexico Cruise port

Located conveniently at the Punta Langosta cruise port, this mall offers a seamless blend of shopping and dining. Here, you can find:

• Souvenirs : A wide variety of keepsakes to remember your trip by.
• Mexican Coffee : Refresh yourself with authentic Mexican brews and homemade baked goods.
• La Mega : A large store similar to Walmart, where you can pick up vacation essentials and local snacks.

Plaza del Sol: Cultural Hub of things to do near the Cozumel Cruise port

A short walk from Punta Langosta, Plaza del Sol in the central plaza of San Miguel offers:

• Handcrafted Goods : Leather sandals, bags, woven hammocks, and embroidered textiles.
• Jewelry : Discover Sergio’s near the 7-11 store for quality silver jewelry.
• Local Cuisine : Enjoy Mexican street food like esquites and marquesitas.

Royal Village Shopping Center

For those docked near the International Pier or Puerta Maya Pier:

• Diverse Shopping : From sporty clothing at Martí sporting goods to high-quality sunglasses at Solaris.
• Brand Souvenirs : Pick up unique items from Pirana Joe or Mexican coffee from Viva Mexico.

Classic Mexico Finds near the Cozumel Cruise Port

Cozumel is renowned for:

• Mexican Embroidery : Handmade embroidery on clothing and home decor.
• Silver Jewelry : Look for local artisans for authentic designs.

Pharmaceutical Shopping

Cozumel also offers pharmacies like the Discount Drugstore & Souvenir Shop, providing a range of medications and health essentials.

What Things to do When Planning Your Shopping Trip near Cozumel Mexico Cruise Port

To make the most of your shopping experience in Cozumel:

• Set a Budget : Decide on your spending limits to shop wisely.
• Explore Affordable Options : Discover a range of souvenirs, clothing, and accessories at various price points.
• Enjoy the Service : Experience the warmth and knowledge of local shop staff.
• Shop at Your Own Pace : Cozumel’s shopping scene is free from pressure, allowing you to browse leisurely.

Cozumel’s shopping scene near the cruise port is a diverse and vibrant experience, offering everything from traditional Mexican crafts to modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, high-end jewelry, or just a taste of local culture, Cozumel’s markets, malls, and shops are sure to provide an unforgettable shopping experience. Cozumel is a haven for shoppers, with options ranging from local handicrafts to designer brands and duty-free items. The heart of Cozumel’s shopping scene is San Miguel, brimming with boutiques, jewelry stores, and markets. Here, you can find unique items like Talavera pottery, alebrijes (brightly painted wooden spirit animals), and hand-woven hammocks. Remember, bargaining is common, especially in local markets, and paying in pesos might get you a better deal.

Cozumel Mexico: Near Cruise Ship Port of Endless Things to do

Cozumel, a Mexican Caribbean gem, offers an array of activities and attractions for cruise passengers. From dining to adventure and relaxation. There’s something for everyone in this vibrant port city.

Culinary Delights near Cozumel Mexico Cruise Ship Port things to enjoy

The island is a culinary paradise, offering everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to international dishes. Enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Mexican street tacos, and mouth-watering fajitas. For an authentic taste, don’t miss the cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish. Many restaurants in Cozumel offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, catering to all dietary needs.

Adventure and Exploration Cozumel Mexico: What Things To Do Near The Cruise Port

Cozumel is not just about beaches and food; it’s an island of adventure. Here are some must-do activities:

• Beach Clubs : Enjoy all-inclusive experiences at clubs like Mr. Sanchos, Paradise Beach, and Cabana Beach Club. These offer amenities like pools, beach palapas, water sports, and even private VIP cabanas.
• Snorkeling and Diving : Cozumel is renowned for its coral reefs. Popular snorkeling locations include Dzul Ha at The Money Bar and Chankanaab Eco Park. For a unique experience, you can also snorkel or dive to explore a sunken ship.
• ATV and Jeep Tours : For the thrill-seekers, ATV and Jeep tours offer an exhilarating way to explore Cozumel’s landscape, including the jungle and historic sites like Punta Sur Eco Beach Park and El Cedral Mayan Ruins.
• Cultural and Historical Tours : Visit the Mayan Ruins of Tulum on the mainland, or explore the smaller but significant San Gervasio ruins on the island itself. These tours provide insights into the rich Mayan history and culture.
• Cozumel Butterfly & Botanical Gardens : A family-friendly destination, these gardens are a tranquil place to admire butterflies and botanical beauties.
• Cozumel Pearl Farm : Learn about pearl cultivation at this unique family-owned farm, accessible only by boat.
• Submarine Adventures : Explore the Caribbean Sea from a unique vantage point with the Atlantis Submarine, ideal for viewing colorful reefs and marine life.
• Food Tours : Experience Cozumel’s gastronomy with food tours that include chocolate, tequila, and tacos, offering a true taste of Mexican cuisine.
• Horseback Riding : Traverse Cozumel’s landscape on horseback, an ideal way to experience the island’s natural beauty

Cozumel Mexico Things To Do Near The Cruise Port: Relaxation and Leisure

For those seeking relaxation, Cozumel’s beach clubs are perfect. Enjoy a stress-free day lounging on the beach, swimming in private pools, and sipping your favorite drink. For a more exclusive experience, opt for places like Nachi Cocum Beach Club, which limits the number of guests for a secluded beach feel.

In summary, Cozumel offers a plethora of activities and experiences for cruise passengers. Whether you’re into shopping, dining, adventure, or just looking to relax, this Caribbean island caters to all your vacation desires.

Cozumel Mexico Beaches and Water Activities: Things to do near cruise ship port

Cozumel, Mexico, a stunning Caribbean destination, offers a variety of beaches and water sports activities perfect for cruise passengers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your beach day near the Cozumel cruise port.

Playa Palancar

Playa Palancar, a popular beach known for its soft, white sand, is ideal for those seeking a picturesque Caribbean beach experience. While it’s not the best spot for snorkeling due to the abundance of swimming and water sports activity, it offers a beautiful setting for relaxation and sunbathing. For an enhanced experience, consider a resort day pass at the Iberostar Resort, which includes access to premium beach chairs, restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and non-motorized water sporting equipment.

Playa San Martin

Located on the east coast of Cozumel, Playa San Martin is celebrated for its exclusivity and natural beauty. It’s further away from the cruise port, requiring a longer taxi ride, but offers a quieter and less crowded beach experience. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, perfect for a tranquil day by the sea.

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park, about 20 minutes south of San Miguel, is a popular destination due to its wide range of amenities and recreational activities. The park features swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, and exploring underwater caves. Tickets and full-day excursion packages are available, often including lunch and transportation. This park is a fantastic option for families and groups looking for a day filled with varied activities.

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

This family-friendly beach park, located 15 minutes south of the cruise port, offers a range of activities and amenities. It’s known for excellent service and includes options like kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and guided tours. An all-inclusive package provides access to lounge chairs, restaurants, showers, and more, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable beach day.

Money Bar Beach Club

Just 1.5 miles south of Puerta Maya, the Money Bar Beach Club is easily accessible and offers a relaxed atmosphere with a full-service restaurant and bar. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, with a coral reef just offshore. The club provides a family-friendly environment, complete with an international menu and live music.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Cozumel Mexico: Things To Do Near The Cruise Port

For those interested in snorkeling and scuba diving, Cozumel is a paradise. Sunset Beach is renowned for offering budget-friendly snorkeling and scuba diving experiences, with rental gear and guided tours available. Playa Corona is another excellent spot for snorkeling, especially in shallow waters.

Alternative Beach Options Cozumel Mexico: Things To Do Near The Cruise Port

• Paradise Beach Club : Known for its Fun Day pass, this club offers an ocean water park, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkeling gear.
• Cabana Beach Club : For a more private experience, this club offers VIP cabanas, concierge service, and snorkeling in Chankanaab Eco Park.
• Isla Pasión (Passion Island) : A secluded beach experience with lounge chairs, a water park, lunch, and beverages.

Cozumel’s beaches offer something for every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a family-friendly environment. Remember to check the distance and transportation options from your cruise port to maximize your time and enjoyment. With its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, Cozumel is sure to provide a memorable experience for cruise passengers.

What Family-Friendly Things to do in Cozumel Mexico Near the Cruise Port

Cozumel is a treasure trove of activities perfect for families arriving at the cruise port. From adventure-packed tours to tranquil beach experiences, the island caters to all ages and interests.

Pirate Ship Cruise

What to Expect : A family adventure on the high seas, complete with interactive pirate shows and treasure hunts. Recommended Age : Suitable for all ages, making it a fun outing for families, friends, or couples. Considerations : It can get crowded and may be pricier, but it’s a unique and memorable experience.

Buggy Tour & Snorkeling

Experience : Combine the thrill of off-road buggy riding with snorkeling in Cozumel’s vibrant waters. Recommended Age : Ideal for tweens (10-12 years old) and above. Highlights : Adrenaline rush of buggy driving and exploring underwater ecosystems. Considerations : Limited educational content; potential for crowds.

Discover Mexico Park

Attractions : A cultural and historical showcase of Mexico’s rich heritage through miniature models of famous sites and traditional Mexican dishes. Recommended Age : Suitable for adults and children ages 3 and up. Why It’s Great : It’s an educational journey through Mexico’s history and culture.

Dolphin Discovery Cozumel

Activities : Swim and interact with dolphins, manatees, and sea lions. Educational Value : Learn about marine life in a fun, interactive setting. Recommended Age : Ideal for adults and young children ages 3 and up.

Features : A beach park filled with water slides, kayaks, an on-water trampoline park, and a kids’ lagoon pool. Recommended Age : Something for all ages, with amenities even for families with babies. Activities : Lounge on the beach, swim in the Caribbean, and enjoy various water sports.

San Gervasio Ruins

Experience : Visit this shrine to learn about the Mayan goddess of fertility and love. Educational Value : Gain insights into the Mayan way of life and enjoy the scenic ruins. Recommended Age : Suitable for history-loving kids ages 6 and up and adults.

Kaokao Chocolate Factory

Activity : Discover the process of making chocolate from beans to bars. Why It’s Great : Perfect for families with a sweet tooth, offering an engaging and tasty tour. Location : Conveniently located in San Miguel de Cozumel.

Cozumel Mexico Things To Do Near The Cruise Port Additional Recommendations

• Paradise Beach : Known for its beautiful beachfront, resort-style pool, and all-inclusive options.
• Chakanaab Beach and Snorkel Park : Offers snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and natural beauty.
• Xcaret Park : A full-day excursion off the island, featuring snorkeling in underground rivers and cultural exhibits.
• Atlantis Submarine : Explore the Caribbean Sea and its marine life in a state-of-the-art submarine, suitable for all ages.

Cozumel offers a wide array of family-friendly activities near the cruise port, ensuring that every family member, regardless of age, can have a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether it’s engaging with sea life, exploring historical sites, or just relaxing on beautiful beaches, Cozumel has something for everyone.

Exploring Cozumel Mexico Cultural Things To Do Near The Cruise Port:

Cozumel, a Mexican island in the Caribbean, offers cruise passengers an array of cultural experiences. From historical Mayan ruins to immersive park adventures, Cozumel blends the allure of its natural beauty with rich cultural traditions and historical significance.

Mayan Ruins & Archeological Sites

Cozumel’s Mayan heritage can be explored through visits to various archeological sites:

• El Cedral : The oldest Mayan site on the island, El Cedral dates back to 800 A.D. Once a revered ceremonial site, it now offers a glimpse into the ancient Mayan way of life, including their use of astronomy and cultural practices. Art and hieroglyphics from the site provide a unique historical perspective.
• San Gervasio : This UNESCO World Heritage Site was a significant destination for Mayan women. With nine temples set amidst a lush jungle, it’s not only a historical treasure but also an ecological wonder. The ruins are located on the northern part of the island and offer a serene experience amidst the remnants of a once-thriving civilization.
• Coba : Though not located on Cozumel itself, the ruins of Coba are accessible via a day trip from the island. This ancient Mayan city features overgrown ball courts, palaces, and the towering Ixmoja pyramid, offering a more adventurous exploration into Mayan history.

Cultural Immersion and Activities

Cozumel’s cultural offerings extend beyond historical sites:

• Jose Cuervo Tequila Tasting : At Discover Mexico Park, a short drive from the cruise terminal, you can indulge in a tequila tasting experience. Learn about the distillation process and the correct way to savor tequila while enjoying a Mexican taco buffet. The park itself is a cultural hub, offering activities like chocolate making and crafting Mexican handcrafts.
• Cultural Tours : Various cultural tours are available, offering a deep dive into Cozumel’s rich heritage. These tours may include visits to local markets, historical sites, and traditional villages, providing a comprehensive view of the island’s cultural landscape.

Nature and Adventure Blended with Culture

• Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park : Approximately 15 minutes by cab from the cruise port, this marine park offers snorkeling and interactions with dolphins and manatees. It’s an excellent blend of natural wonders and cultural exhibits.
• Xcaret Park : While a bit further away, Xcaret Park is a full-day excursion that combines fun activities, natural wonders, and cultural exhibits. The park is known for its snorkeling in underground rivers and swimming with dolphins.
• Amazing Cozumel Race : This family-friendly scavenger hunt is an active and enjoyable way to explore Cozumel. It involves walking and possibly a boat ride, offering a fun and unconventional way to learn about the island.
• Exploring the Wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula : From Cozumel, you can venture to the Yucatan Peninsula to discover natural and cultural attractions like cenotes, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and historical sites such as Tulum and Valladolid.
• ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern : This thrilling ATV tour takes you to the Jade Cavern, an underground cenote and a site of Mayan significance. The tour is an adrenaline-pumping experience through Cozumel’s landscapes and history.

Cozumel Mexico Cruise Port offers a diverse array of cultural experiences that allow cruise passengers to immerse themselves in the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to participating in cultural activities and enjoying nature-infused adventures, Cozumel is a destination that caters to a wide range of interests and provides a memorable cultural journey.

FAQS and Tips for Things to Do Near the Cozumel Mexico Cruise Port

Visiting Cozumel on a cruise can be an exhilarating experience, filled with a variety of activities and attractions. From its stunning beaches and clear waters to its rich cultural history, Cozumel has something for everyone. To make the most out of your trip, here are some frequently asked questions and tips for cruise visitors in Cozumel:

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Cozumel Known For? Cozumel is renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear Caribbean waters, vibrant marine life, and the Mayan ruins. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.
• Do I Need a Passport to Visit Cozumel on a Cruise? Most cruises require proof of citizenship. Depending on your itinerary, a certified copy of your birth certificate and a photo ID or a passport may be sufficient. It’s best to check with your cruise line for specific requirements.
• What’s the Best Way to Get Around in Cozumel? Taxis, buses, and scooter rentals are common modes of transportation. For a more adventurous option, consider renting a bicycle or moped. Many tourist areas are also pedestrian-friendly.
• Is English Widely Spoken in Cozumel? Yes, English is commonly spoken and understood in Cozumel, especially in areas connected to the tourism industry.
• What Currency is Used in Cozumel? The local currency is the peso, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. It’s advisable to carry some cash as some places may not accept credit cards.
• Is Tipping Customary in Cozumel? Service is often included in restaurant bills, but if not, a tip of 10% to 15% is customary. Taxi drivers typically receive a 10-15% tip, and other service staff, like maids and porters, usually get $1 to $2.

Tips for Visiting Cozumel on a Cruise What to Do

• Check Taxi Rates Beforehand : Cozumel features set taxi fares for cruise passengers. Make sure to confirm the price before getting into a cab.
• Explore the Other Side of the Island : The eastern side of Cozumel offers less crowded beaches and a glimpse into the island’s natural beauty.
• Paying for Beach Access : Paying for access to private beaches or resorts can be worth it for the additional amenities like cleaner beaches, chairs, umbrellas, and shower facilities.
• Currency and Language : U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and English is commonly spoken, making transactions and communication quite easy for tourists.
• Staying Safe and Healthy : It’s generally safe to drink filtered tap water in resorts and restaurants. However, bottled water is recommended. Also, medical shots aren’t usually necessary, but it’s a good idea to check with your healthcare provider.
• What to Wear and Pack : Casual resort wear is standard for daytime. Pack a variety of footwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimsuits, and a windbreaker. Also, bring all medications and consider packing dressier clothes for evening dining.
• Photography Tips : Cozumel’s natural beauty offers many photo opportunities. Pack rechargeable batteries, a charger, adaptors, and high-capacity memory cards for digital cameras.
• Exploring Local Culture and Shopping : The island offers vibrant markets and shops for souvenirs, with bargaining being a common practice. You can find hand-painted pottery, wood carvings, and other local crafts.

Visiting Cozumel on a cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Being prepared with the right information can enhance your experience and make your trip to this Caribbean paradise truly memorable.

Concluding Your Cozumel Adventure

In summary, Cozumel’s offerings range from relaxation on pristine beaches to exploring the depths of the Caribbean Sea. The island’s rich culture, coupled with its natural beauty, makes it a perfect destination for cruise visitors. As you prepare to depart, remember the vivid experiences and the warmth of Cozumel, promising a return to this enchanting island.

Final Tips for Cruise Visitors What to Do

• Be Aware of Taxi Rates : Familiarize yourself with set taxi fares to avoid overpaying.
• Public Beach Access : Remember, beaches in Mexico are public, but accessing them might require a small fee.
• Packing and Planning : Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen and comfortable attire for beach and adventure activities.

For those cruising to Cozumel , the island’s blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and a plethora of activities ensures a memorable visit that caters to all preferences.” Whether it’s the thrill of exploring the underwater world, the relaxation of a beach club, or the cultural immersion of a mainland excursion, Cozumel offers an array of experiences to make your cruise stop unforgettable.

So what are some of your own best traveling hacks? Share them with us below!

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Cozumel, Mexico

Last updated on January 22nd, 2024 at 10:35 am

Welcome to Cozumel, a tropical paradise known for its world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. Explore the colorful coral reefs, visit the ancient Mayan ruins of San Gervasio, or simply relax on the stunning white-sand beaches. Indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine, explore the vibrant downtown area with its shops and restaurants, or take a Jeep tour through the island's lush landscapes. Cozumel offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure.

How Safe is Cozumel?

Pesos, American Dollars – there are ATMs located at the piers which will distribute money in pesos or dollars, but the fees are quite high. Also, the “exchange rate” seems to change depending on the store or restaurant. Always make sure you have small bills for tipping and don’t be afraid to barter.

Wireless Internet:

Most cafes and restaurants have free wi-fi for their patrons. Just ask for the password.

Spanish, English (spoken most places)

Where You Dock in Cozumel, Mexico

There are 3 piers in Cozumel:

International Pier – 2.5 miles south of San Miguel – you can walk, but taxis are everywhere. If you have mobility issues, it’s a bit of a walk from the ship to the pier stores, but there are locals with wheelchairs that will wheel you for a tip.

Puerta Maya – Carnival’s pier – 5 miles from San Miguel – you’ll need a taxi to get into town.

Punta Langosta – located downtown San Miguel. It’s a short walk to many great shops and restaurants in San Miguel. There is a shopping complex with a Starbucks right at the pier.

Getting Around Cozumel, Mexico

Taxis in cozumel.

Taxis are plentiful in Cozumel. Drivers must speak English and it is wise to agree on a fare before getting in the taxi, otherwise the fares are not consistent (we were charged $6 USD to get from International Pier to downtown and $15 to get back from the same spot – our own fault). It’s typically cheaper when you flag down a taxi than hiring one from a taxi stand. Also, taxi drivers may not allow “carpooling” if a few different parties are trying to get to the same spot, and you may have to wait for another taxi.

Car Rental in Cozumel

Hertz and Avis both have car rental locations in Cozumel but there are a few things to know:

1) Buy the insurance from the car rental company. US insurance often doesn’t cover both collision & liability in Mexico, and if an accident happens, you may have to pay the cost in cash before leaving the island and then recoup the cost from your insurance company any home. Take pictures of the car and any scratches or dents before leaving the car rental lot to ensure you’re not held liable.

2) Parking is regulated. If you park in a no parking zone, you may end up with a tire lock clamped on your car. Lots and streets have parking meters.

3) There are only 3 gas stations in Cozumel, and none on the far side of the island. Make sure your tank is full before heading outside of San Miguel.

4) Driving can be a free-for-all. Watch for mopeds and pedestrians. There are many one-way streets that aren’t clearly marked. Take note of which way cars are parked before turning down a street. Streets running North & South have the right of way and streets going East & West must stop at intersections (even if not marked).

Ferry to Playa Del Carmen

There is a ferry that runs to Mexico’s mainland, to the town of Playa Del Carmen. It’s a 45 minute ride, with the ferries running every hour, but it’s advised to check the schedule. The cost is around $13/adult. The ride is often quite choppy, but day trips to the mainland’s Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum are popular with cruise passengers.

Shopping In Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is known for its silver (tax-free), vanilla, tequila and Mexican arts and crafts. They also have many pharmacies that see inexpensive over-the-counter medication. Be prepared for every vendor to call to you to come into their store, often with some sort of “promotion.” Bartering is expected so don’t fall for the first bargain you see.

Royal Village Shopping Center

Located across the street from International Pier, the Royal Village Shopping Center is a modern mall offering outlets such as Nike, Mont Blanc & Lacoste.

Punta Langosta Mall

Located at the Punta Langosta pier downtown, there are jewelry stores, high quality souvenir shops, clothing stores as well as Senor Frogs, Hard Rock Cafe, Hooters and Starbucks.

Los Cinco Soles

Near Pancho’s Backyard restaurant, Los Cinco Soles offers quality silver, fashions and unique, handmade Mexican crafts and also has a tequila bar when you’re tired of shopping.

Dining In Cozumel, Mexico

La Choza – Rosada Salas 198 at Av. 10 Sur – family-run, home-cooked Mexican cuisine (favorite with ship crew members)

La Mission – Just off of Av. Rafael E. Melgar – authentic Mexican at a great price

Things To Do in Cozumel, Mexico

Wondering what to do at cozumel cruise port.

There is no shortage of things to do once your ship docks in Cozumel Mexico. Here are a few of our recommendations:

The best beaches are located on the west side of the island where the sea is usually much calmer. Make sure you take your sunscreen!

Resort Day Passes – Day passes to beach resorts are a really popular option for cruise passengers. Enjoying the hotel’s all-inclusive amenities including pool, beach, water sports, spa, restaurants and drinks can be a great way to spend a day in Cozumel, especially if you’ve visited the island before. Check out Cozumel’s day passes with ResortPass!

Chankanaab Park & Reef – great for scuba diving and snorkeling; Dolphin Discovery Program allows swimming with dolphins for a fee. Get a day pass here!

Paradise Beach – lots of water sport rentals and has a restaurant and bars

Playa Escondida – few amenities so not as crowded as others

Nachi Cocom Beach Club – has the beach, swimming pool, water sports, restaurants and bar. Guests often buy all inclusive passes.

Mr. Sanchos Beach Club – popular with cruisers, offers all inclusive passes with restaurants and bars, watersports, tequila seminars and other activities.

Scuba Diving

Palancar Reef – part of the Meso-American Barrier Reef – visibility can reach 250 feet in some spots!

La Ceiba Reef – explore a sunken airplane which was blown up during the filming of a movie

Mayan Ruins

The majority of the Mayan Ruins are located on the Mexican mainland, but Cozumel has a small site: San Gervasio. Once a ceremonial center for Ixchel, the fertility goddess, it is located about 7 miles from San Miguel.

Tequila Tour

See how tequila is made and get free samples!

Hacienda Antigua is a popular, professional tour, for a cost. Casa Mission is a free tour, often where taxi drivers take tourists as part of an island tour.

Top Tours & Excursions In Cozumel, Mexico

Manatee swim & chankanaab park.

Meet and interact with manatees in their home environment and have a chance to feed them, then spend as long as you’d like swimming or snorkeling at Chankanaab National Marine Park....

• Duration: 2 hours minimum
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Note: each chairs & snorkel gear can be rented. Food & drink available at Park restaurant.

Mini-Sub Dive Tour

See Cozumel from a new and unique perspective in your own state-of-the-art mini-sub. On your guided tour, you’ll see beautiful coral and marine life at a depth of 15-20 feet....

• Duration: 1 hour

Cozumel Jeep & Beach Adventure

You’ll see all Cozumel has to offer with this adventure. Drive a jeep all over the island to see Mayan ruins, Columbia Lagoon, snorkel in Punta Sur Bay, and eat an authentic Mexican lunch at an exclusive beach resort....

• Duration: 5.5 hours

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24 Best Things to Do in Cozumel

By Candyce H. Stapen

Last updated: October 2nd, 2023

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The colorful island of Cozumel is laid back, peaceful, and has a feeling of authenticity about it. Beach lovers will find plenty of things to do in Cozumel, who come for the white sands and the sun. Snorkelers and divers explore the abundant reefs, part of the Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world.

If you can tear yourself away from the beach, you could visit the only working pearl farm in the Caribbean, go on a tequila tasting tour, stroll the waterfront El Malecon, or take a day trip by air to explore Chichen Itza, the ancient Maya city-state.

Here are 24 of the best things to see and do in Cozumel.

Snorkel & Dive Cozumel Marine Park

Marine life in Cozumel

Since Cozumel rates as a top snorkeling destination in the Caribbean , exploring the underwater reefs is one of the best things to do here. Stunning coral reefs, part of the largest reef system in the Western Hemisphere dazzle snorkelers and divers.

In 1996, the Mexican government created Cozumel Reefs National Park, a 30,000-acre reserve that includes 85 percent of the island’s dive sites.

The crystal clear waters push visibility to 150 feet in places, and at other sites, the reefs beckon snorkelers with fans, sponges, and rainbow-colored fish schooling just a few feet below the surface.

Brain coral

Divers admire the boulder-sized gardens of brain coral and the black coral trees shooting to nearly 25 feet, as well as grouper, moray eels, nurse sharks, and sea turtles.

The water is clear and the marine life abundant, making it one of the best scuba diving spots in the Caribbean .

Take in Downtown San Miguel

Downtown San Miguel

Vibrant San Miguel, the largest town in Cozumel, is a mix of Mexican culture and Caribbean flair. Exploring the downtown area is one of the best things to do in Cozumel as you while away a morning before heading to the beach.

At El Mercado, the island’s traditional market, produce stalls are piled high with papayas, bananas, and pineapples. Vendors sell fresh-squeezed orange and grapefruit juice, and slabs of pork and beef hang from hooks.

At the eateries in the market, try fish stew, tacos, empanadas, and other authentic dishes.

El Malecon, Downtown San Miguel

On a stroll along San Miguel’s waterfront strip, El Malecon, officially the Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, you can feel the sea breezes and almost taste the salty air. Sculptures of eagles, dolphins, fish and other critters enliven the broad sidewalk.

The iconic and colorful Isla Cozumel sign graces Benito Juarez Park, a good place to pause on a shaded bench before shopping in Cozumel . Keep an eye out for the town’s vivid murals as you search for take-home treasures.

Shop after shop sells pottery, paper maché fruit, wood carvings, brightly colored hammocks and silver bracelets, necklaces, rings, serving pieces, and pitchers.  Browse, bargain, and then bargain some more.

Go Snorkeling at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

Popular Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park lures visitors with its sea life. “Chankanaab” means “little ocean” in the Mayan language. The beach park lies within Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park.

On a snorkel or dive, you float among grunts, snappers, and other schools of rainbow-colored beauties and can admire the Christ of the Abyss statue, a Chankanaab landmark.

Snuba adventure in Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

Even non-divers can savor underwater views with SeaTrek or Snuba, experiences that use floating oxygen tanks or helmets pumped with compressed air. You can also swim with gentle manatees and interact with dolphins.

Out of the water,  meander through a tropical garden dotted with re-created Mayan structures and glide on a zipline.

Swim, Sun, and Play at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

Mexican beach parks entice you with their one-stop approach to sun, sand, and sea. At Playa Mia Grand Beach Park, one of the best beaches to visit in Cozumel , bring your towel, find your lounge chair, and relax under the Caribbean sunshine.

You’ll find kayaks, water trikes, and twisting water slides here. Up the excitement with parasailing, wave runners, snorkeling, and signing up for salsa dancing and salsa making.  Make a day of it by adding lunch.

Because of the sea’s constant current—two to four knots northward – a relaxing drift dive or snorkel tour from a boat lets you see more because you don’t need to swim back to the shore or kick against the often substantial Cozumel currents. Consider a two-stop drift tour to Palancar Reef and Colombia Reef.

Palancar Reef

A Cozumel legend, Palancar Reef, more than three miles long, rewards mask and fin enthusiasts with large coral heads, barrel sponges, and sea fans. At Colombia Reef, look for turtles, damselfish, and grouper; in terms of natural beauty, this is one of the best things to see in Cozumel.

Explore Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Located at the southern tip of Cozumel, this 247-acre park, established in 1999, protects the sandy shores and mangroves and serves as a refuge for turtles, fish, alligators, birds, and beach lovers.

Dense groves of sea grapes and stands of palms line some roads. Because of the park’s size, it’s best to arrive by car or on a guided tour.

The less-visited beaches farthest from Punta Sur’s entrance are the most pristine. At these beaches and others in the park, enjoy listening to breaking surf, watching a phalanx of sea birds fly overhead, and strolling the shore.

Resist the urge to swim because in many places Punta Sur’s sea can have strong currents and waves. It’s best to swim where officials say it’s safe and to snorkel with a guide who can lead you to the calmest waters.

Punta Sur is also home to flamingos, herons, and spoonbills, which may be seen from an observation tower. To catch sight of the alligators, walk a boardwalk trail over a lagoon.

For panoramic park views, climb the 133 winding steps of the 19th-century lighthouse.

Several Mayan ruins dot the park, including  El Caracol, cleverly constructed with shells. According to legend, the whistling noise of the vibrating shells due to high winds warned people of an impending hurricane.

Learn the History of Chocolate

Mayan Cacao Company

At the Mayan Cacao Company, discover the Mayans’ fascination with chocolate. Learn how the Mayans used cacao beans to create chocolate and how their version differs from what we delightfully devour.

After picking, grinding, and mixing cacao with chili and, sometimes, honey, the Mayans served the rather bitter drink cold to priests and royalty, the only ones allowed to enjoy the caffeinated kick.

Nowadays, you can get hands-on by using a metate, the tool used by the Mayans, to grind and mix ingredients, creating your own Mayan-style chocolate bar.

Mayan Cacao Company gift shop

Go modern by concocting a chocolate margarita. Chocoholics can stock up on chocolate bars, chocolate bath soaps, and chocolate lotions at the gift shop.

Stand Among Starfish at El Cielo

“El Cielo” means “heaven” Reachable only by boat, El Cielo isn’t a beach, but a sandbar covered in waist-high water. On an outing, turquoise seas and blue skies surround you, creating a feeling of boundlessness.

Although no one truly knows the derivation of the site’s name, a local theory has it that the many starfish scattered across the underwater sand reminded early visitors of stars in the sky, so the site became known as El Cielo.

El Cielo is a peaceful place, especially when few boats arrive. The fluttering you might feel at your feet are the stingrays gracefully flapping their wing-like fins as they float by.

Spend a Beach Day at Playa Palancar

Playa Palancar

Playa Palancar, a public beach, is a white sand ribbon on Cozumel’s southwest coast. A drink from the bar, a plate from the restaurant, or a reservation for parasailing,  jet skiing, diving, or snorkeling entitles you to a lounge chair.

From the beach, it’s a 20-minute boat ride to Colombia or Palancar reefs, iconic Cozumel snorkeling and diving sites known for their schooling fish and brilliant corals.

Take a Reef Tour with Atlantis Submarine

Go below on an Atlantis Submarine to experience a diver’s eye view of the deep without getting wet, learning scuba, or even knowing how to swim.  Diving with the Atlantis Submarine is one of the best things to do in Cozumel as you’ll descend far deeper than you would on a dive, down to 100 feet.

You should see snappers, manta rays, schools of rainbow-colored fish, and maybe even a turtle swimming past the portholes. At Chankanaab Reef, you also see the sunken wreck, the Felipe Xicotencatl, resting at a depth of 50 feet.

Marvel at Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá

Your adventure to Chichén Itzá, an impressive city-state built by the Mayans, begins with a flight over the Yucatán Peninsula. Taking a plane to the ancient city makes visiting the site, an impressive Maya ruin and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a feasible day trip from Cozumel.

Chichén Itzá rates as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. On a walk through the four-square-mile site of this ancient city-state, you time travel back to 600-1200 C.E. to learn about the Maya.

Skilled mathematicians and astronomers, the Maya built many of the 40 or so excavated or semi-excavated structures to use in sacred ceremonies, tell the time, and celebrate the seasons.

El Caracol, Chichén Itzá

El Castillo, the massive, 79-foot tall, pyramidal temple has a total of 365 steps, the same number as the solar calendar.

On the spring and fall equinoxes, sunlight hits El Castillo’s steps in such a manner that it appears that a shadow is slithering down the staircase to join up with a large sculpted serpent head at the structure’s base.

Each of the four windows in El Caracol, a circular tower used as an observatory, faces a cardinal direction.

Principal Ball Court Photo by dronepicr on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

Another highlight, Juego de Pelota Principal, the Principal Ball Court, is the largest ancient ball court in any of Mexico’s archeological sites. Players used their hips to maneuver the ball.

Although no one knows the rules of  Pok Ta’ Pok, historians think that getting the ball through a stone loop gained a player bonus points but was not the game’s objective.

The game could be deadly. Friezes on the ballcourt’s wall depict sacrifices, probably that of the losing captives who had been forced to play. That’s just part of the mystery surrounding the city and its decline.

Exploring Chichen Itza is fascinating. Be sure to wear a hat and bring several water bottles as it’s hot in the jungle.

Go Tequila Tasting

On a tequila tasting tour, find out about the history of tequila, a centuries-old drink that Mexico is known for , from the Aztecs’ fermentation of agave to produce “pulque” to Mexico’s 1974 registered ownership of the term “tequila.”

Tequila is officially produced in only five regions of Mexico: Michoacan, Guanajuato, Nayarit, Tamaulipas, and Jalisco, where the town of Tequila is located. Anything produced outside those regions cannot legally be labeled tequila.

Tequila tasting

Guided by your master tequilero, you’ll taste the differences among three basic tequilas: undiluted Blanco, Reposado aged in oak barrels for two to 12 months,  and Anejo, aged in oak barrels for one to three years.

The tequilero also reveals the secret to making the best margaritas, one of the most popular Caribbean cocktails .

See How Pearls Form

Pearl necklaces have long connoted elevated social status. Martha Washington wore one, as did Jacqueline Kennedy, and Michelle Obama. The three-strand pearl necklace Queen Elizabeth II wears so frequently has come to serve as her signature adornment.

Find out how the prized iridescent spheres are cultivated at the family-owned Cozumel Pearl Farm, the only active pearl farm in the Caribbean.  A guide explains the process and why the farm uses the oyster Pinctada radiata, a.k.a. the Atlantic Pearl Oyster, a species almost extinct in the region before the farm cultivated it.

Afterward, you can snorkel above the oyster beds, walk on the pristine, white sand beach, and enjoy a grilled Caribbean lunch. Tours are limited to about eight people, something else that makes the experience special.

Have a Maya Encounter at San Gervasio

San Gervasio

If you don’t have the time to go to Chichen Itza, San Gervasio is a much more intimate Maya site actually on Cozumel. Its pyramid, temples and other buildings mark it as perhaps one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Central America after Chichen Itza.

At its height during the post-classic period from 1200-1530 C.E., San Gervasio has a central plaza where several Maya roads meet. Sadly, the arrival of the Spanish in 1518 brought smallpox that wiped out much of the population.

The Spanish noted that San Gervasio was dedicated to the Mayan deity Ixchel, a jaguar Goddess of childbirth and fertility. That made the site particularly significant to Maya women.

Major buildings include Las Manitas (“The Little Hands”), where the walls are covered in handprints. Nohoch Na (often called “The Palace”) once had a temple on top that was painted in bright blues, yellows and reds.

Learn to Make Tacos

Create everlasting memories of Mexico by bringing home an authentic taste. While cookery classes on Cozumel cover a range from authentic Maya dishes to Mexican home cooking, a Taco workshop is among the simplest, and most fun.

A taco is a tortilla that is folded around a filling of meat, and/or vegetables, usually eaten in the hand. Like many simple things, it takes some skill to do very well.

From choosing the right corn tortillas to making the perfect salsa and guacamole, a professional chef can help you through the basics, then progress to the next level. The best part is that you get to make, and eat, your own creations.

You can find workshops that pair gourmet tacos with tequilas, or more casual affairs on a beach with a boat tour. Whichever you choose, an entertaining, and delicious time is assured.

Escape to Isla Pasion

Isla Pasion

This tiny, palm-covered island, a short boat ride from Cozumel’s shore, is a real taste of Caribbean paradise. Popular for weddings (there’s a small chapel), you’ll understand why when you see its romantic beauty for yourself.

The white sands are perfect for a stroll while you pick the right spot to chill in a hammock with a cold beer or cocktail. Kayaks, water bikes and paddle boards let you explore further afield.

However, most visitors to this exclusive spot just relax and take it all in. Lunch, or the beautifully clear water, are the only things that might tempt you out of that hammock.

Discover Cozumel Island Museum

Cozumel Island Museum Photo by David Stanley on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

If visiting Cozumel sparks a desire to learn more about the island, or the Maya, this museum is essential. The building itself dates back to the 1930s when it was one of the first hotels on the island.

Exhibitions deal with everything from geology to the local Carnaval tradition. Among the 11 interactive exhibits are those dealing with the coming of the Spanish, and exploring the island’s culture.

A recreated Maya Temple will bring to life some of the dusty ruins you may have seen elsewhere. Surprisingly entertaining, this alone should be on everyone’s itinerary to better understand the Maya.

Spot Rare Birds

Cozumel emerald

Cozumel means “Island of the Swallows” in Mayan, so it’s perhaps no surprise that it’s a birdlife hotspot. There are around 20 species or subspecies endemic to the island, and some 340 in total to spot.

First stop should be the Cozumel Country Club, where the golf course is certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. The coastal mangrove swamps, and the island’s tropical deciduous forest are also refuges for many species.

Although you will spot many birds as you walk or drive around Cozumel, you will also find several good birdwatching tours. As well as popular ones at Cozumel Country Club, and El Cedral, there are a number that visit several different sites so you can see a wider variety of species.

Some birds will be very familiar to North American visitors as they too migrate here for the winter. The migratory birds, many of which are aquatic, are therefore best seen from November to April.

Great egret

However, you’ll see plenty of permanent residents throughout the year, including the black-bellied whistling duck, great egret, white ibis, and black vulture. Endemics include the Cozumel emerald, Yucatan jay, and orange oriole.

Other highlights among many might include the roseate spoonbill, belted kingfisher, white-fronted parrot, great blue heron, yellow warbler, and Yucatan vireo. One songbird it would be difficult to leave Cozumel without having heard, if not seen, is the very common tropical mockingbird.

Go Deep-Sea Fishing

Fishing in Cozumel

You can go deep-sea fishing at any time of the year in Cozumel. It’s an exciting sport, with options for trolling (from a moving boat) or bottom fishing (with a stationary boat).

For most visitors, coming from September through March, the common species to target are bottom feeders such as grouper, yellowtail snapper, and other reef fish, most of which make good eating.

Barracuda are easily caught all year round, but other sportfish such as bonito, mahi mahi, blue marlin, or sailfish are best landed between March and August. However, you might be lucky on any day of the year, and charters will revert to bottom-fishing if the bigger guys are not biting.

Either way, you’re guaranteed a good day out on the sea, with every chance of catching something. The limit is ten fish per angler a day, but your skipper will guide you through the small print on that.

See the Clifftop Splendor of Tulum

The Maya/Toltec site of Tulum must be one of the most photogenic archaeological sites in the world. Sitting on a sheer cliff, overlooking the clear blue Caribbean sea, it’s a familiar poster child for Mexico tourism.

The reality does not disappoint, starting with the massive defensive wall. The most prominent structure is the Castillo (Castle), a temple pyramid whose architecture shows its origins in the Toltec civilization.

The ancient port city, abandoned in the late 1500s, is a complex of ruins that a good guide will bring to life. It served the inland city of Coba, and dates to around 600 CE but reached its height from 1200 onward.

You can easily join a tour from Cozumel. Tulum is Mexico’s most-visited archeological site after Teotihuacan outside Mexico City, and Chichen Itza.

Be Arty in San Miguel

Street art in San Miguel Photo by Lars Plougmann on Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Cozumel’s crafts showcase the talent of the artisans who produce beautiful objects in silver, cotton or even papier-mâché. You’ll also find many art galleries in San Miguel, and indeed elsewhere on Cozumel, that highlight the work of less traditional artists.

Keep an eye out, too, for the many murals that decorate walls and buildings throughout the town. You’ll notice a common theme of conservation in 50 large works created by a multinational project called “Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans”.

Leading street artists are among those from around the world who have contributed to the project. Murals are always subject to change, but two to look out for include “Letanía” (“Litany”) by Mexican artist Secreto Rebollo, and “Mapache’s Stare” by South Africa’s Sonny, which highlights the plight of the endangered Cozumel raccoon.

Street art in San Miguel Photo by Adam Jones on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

The murals range from those on block-long walls to others covering the entire side of a two-story building. Most are around the downtown area, but you’ll find some in surprising locations.

Go Bats in the Jade Cavern

Jade Cavern

Reaching the Jade Cavern, deep within Cozumel’s jungle, is an adventure in itself. Tours take four-wheel-drive wheels or quad bikes to tackle the thrilling dirt roads.

The cave is eroded into the limestone rocks underlying the island. It takes its name from the green light filtering through the jungle canopy, and minerals in the water.

Any visitor to Yucatan will be familiar with its many cenotes, underground caves filled with rainwater. The Jade Cavern stands out for its population of biodiverse inhabitants, which range from blue crabs to bats.

The bat colony adds a strong sulfur smell to the cavern, which you need to be prepared for if you go swimming. Not everyone finds these remarkable Caribbean animals enchanting, but those who do will enjoy learning more about them.

A 30-minute drive from San Miguel, Jade Cavern is a very different side of Cozumel. Most tours will add fun extras such as a tequila tasting, if they are not self-drive.

Be Awed by Paradise Reef

Paradise Reef

Strong currents make this a tricky reef best explored on a tour or with a guide. The reward is one of the best reefs on Cozumel, either for divers or snorkelers.

Snorkelers can easily drift with the current, taking in the many shoals of fish. Grunts, sergeant majors, snappers, trumpetfish, and queen angelfish are among the species to be seen.

Novice snorkelers will stick to the shallower northern part of the reef. South Paradise goes down to 30 feet and is for the more experienced.

Spotted moray eel

The reef is also perfect for novice divers who will be closer to details such as the exquisite anemones, or sponges. In deeper waters, you’ll see barracuda, spotted moray eels, or even lobster.

In areas of sand, you may be lucky enough to encounter stingrays or seahorses. Of course, the reef is also rich in massive stands of coral, and beds of seagrass.

Take a Ferry to Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen

With dozens of ferry crossings a day, taking just 30 mins each way, it’s easy to visit Playa del Carmen from Cozumel. The busy town is a great place to see some of the best beaches in Riviera Maya .

Shop in Quinta Avenida, Playa del Carmen

At its heart is the pedestrianized shopping street of Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue). Lined with fashion boutiques, shops, restaurants, and cafés, it’s always busy.

However, the town rose to fame for its perfect white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and sunny weather. You’ll find plenty of places to relax in the sun, and swim, snorkel or paddle board.

Xcaret, Playa del Carmen

Nearby is the “eco-archaeological” park of Xcaret, where you can swim in a cenote, watch a Maya cultural show, or enjoy one of the best water parks in the Caribbean . There’s also an Aviary, Butterfly Pavilion, and Aquarium to see.

Only four miles south of “Playa” is the Xplor Park, which is aimed at the more adventurous. It has a world-class zip-lining experience, and you can also try off-road driving, or river rafting among many other activities.

Experience the Delights of El Cedral

The small town of El Cedral, in the southwest of Cozumel, is a quiet escape from some of the busier parts of the island. It has picturesque Maya ruins, dating to 800 CE, and the first Spanish colonial-era church on the island.

The town’s tiny plaza is a focal point for an abundance of craft shops and restaurants. These latter are notable for their authentic Mexican, and Yucatan cuisine.

Mayan ruins in El Cedral

Four-wheel drive trips to explore the surrounding jungle are popular. Another option is a horseback ride to admire the Maya ruins while experiencing the sights, and sounds of the forest.

Nearby is Kun Che Park, where you can watch Maya dances, and learn about their ceremonies, as well as cooking. You can also watch the highly skilled Maya Ball game being played.

Ready to explore this enchanting island? Browse our luxury cruises to Cozumel and plan your dream vacation.

Candyce H. Stapen

Candyce H. Stapen is an award-winning travel journalist, author, and family travel expert. As USA TODAY ’s travel editor/producer, Candyce launched the company’s digital travel sites. Her work appears in Frommers.com, the Washington Post , and is syndicated to millions of readers, Candyce lives in Washington, D.C., and travels with her family whenever she can.

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Cozumel   Travel Guide

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15 Best Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel, Mexico, is a popular vacation destination for travelers on its own, but it’s also a common cruise ship destination and a spot travelers staying in nearby Playa del Carmen  visit for snorkeling and diving tours. Speaking of diving, most

• All Things To Do

Cozumel Boat Tours Cozumel Boat Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip : If you’re staying in Playa del Carmen and want to see Cozumel's incredible reefs, you can easily plan a day trip to Cozumel. Ferries travel between these destinations throughout the day, and the ride only takes around 45 minutes each way. – Holly D. Johnson

No trip to Cozumel is complete without a boat ride (or two) around the island's magnificently blue waters. Whether you hop on board to scuba dive through some of Cozumel's magnificent reefs or to simply take in the scenery during a sunset sail, most travelers agree that chartering a boat is worth the time and money. 

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

If you're a wildlife lover, a trip to the Punta Sur Eco Park is a must. This ecological park sprawls across the southern tip of Cozumel. Its 2,500 acres are home to some incredible animals worth seeing if you have a chance, including exotic birds, crocodiles and sea turtles. But don't let the animals distract you from everything else the park has to offer. Take some time to explore the park's Celarain Lighthouse , which houses a small maritime museum that details the history of the Maya, as well as pirates and corsairs that once frequented the area. You can also book a catamaran tour of the Colombia lagoon. 

Recent visitors said that the beach park offers a great mix of history and nature situated in a beautiful spot. The white sands and peaceful atmosphere of the beach are just about perfect, according to most visitors. 

Palancar Beach Palancar Beach free

Palancar Beach, one of the best all-around beach spots on Cozumel, is especially acclaimed for its water sports, including kayaking, snorkeling, sailing and diving. You can rent a dive charter and then grab some grub at the nearby restaurants and bars. Travelers especially recommend Playa Palancar Beach Club for cruise patrons looking to escape a pre-planned excursion for a more authentic experience. 

Travelers also described the offshore Palancar Gardens and Palancar Reef as excellent spots for divers of all skill levels. Even if you're an experienced diver, it's recommended you rent a charter to avoid the hassle of permits or licensing. While swimmers are allowed to dive on their own, we recommend that you hire local experts who are familiar with the diving terrain. Fortunately, many recent travelers say they saw plenty of tropical fish and marine life in the area including stingrays, sharks and starfish.

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Xcaret Park Day Trip with Priority Access and Cultural Night Show

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Cozumel's Paradise Beach Cozumel's Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach is a popular beach on the western side of the island. Families, couples, locals and tourists – plus plenty of cruise ship passengers – flock to this beach, so prepare for crowds. This pristine shoreline boasts soft sand, turquoise waters, a pool, a restaurant and shopping (you can pick up a bathing suit, sandals and other beach necessities at three stores along the shore).

For $10, you're granted access to all the facilities, as well as a chair by the beach or the pool, and for about $18, you can purchase a Fun Pass to use all the inflatable water toys, water trampolines, iceberg climb, kayaks, snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards. Poolside and beachside food and beverage service is also offered with a $10 minimum. There are also all-inclusive day passes available that include food and drinks as part of the package price and cost $67 for adults, $47 for youth ages 12 to 17 and $41 for children ages 5 to 11. Kids 4 and younger play free.

Mr. Sanchos Beach Club Mr. Sanchos Beach Club

Mr. Sanchos Beach Club is an all-inclusive beach destination featuring two pools for swimming and access to a stunning white sand beach where visitors can relax in the water or snorkel from the shore. Visitors can eat and drink all they want as well. Extra activities like an aquatic park (with climbing features, overwater trampolines, a pyramid slider and more), motorized watercrafting and horseback riding are available for an additional fee.

Travelers who have visited agree that the value is good for the cost of an all-inclusive day pass, and that they had fun and received excellent service.

Stingray Beach Stingray Beach

A visit to Stingray Beach will provide the same interactive experience as scuba diving, just without the heavy gear (or price tags). Located in San Miguel, this facility allows you to get up close with these undersea creatures, providing ample opportunities to swim among them. And don't worry about getting stung: The rays' barbs are clipped, so the animals can't hurt you. 

Recent visitors couldn't get enough of the experience, describing the rays as beautiful and mellow, and the staff as respectful of the animals and reassuring to the humans. You can pet and even “kiss” the stingrays during the tour, which is accessible directly from the shore so you don’t have to board a boat or spend any travel time getting to the site. Also note that Stingray Beach offers chocolate tasting, mezcal and tequila tasting and other activities for people in your group. 

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

U.S. News Insider Tip : If you're planning a day at this beach club (or another) during a cruise stop in Cozumel, avoid booking through your ship. You can take a taxi to most beaches in Cozumel, and you’ll have more time to spend there when you travel independently.  – Holly D. Johnson

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is another beach club that offers day passes to vacationers. This beach club offers a beautiful shoreline with plenty of space and powder white sand. Visitors can relax the day away on a chair with their own umbrella. The beach park also features an overwater play area and obstacle course, which can keep kids busy for hours while wearing them out. You'll also have access to a hydro-massage tub, water cannons and pedal boats.

Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park

Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park is the second-largest coral reef in the world and is home to a range of marine flora as well as incredible animals like rays (from December to March), sharks, turtles and starfish. You'll want to visit this reef by boat and with the help of a professional guide.

Many tour companies take tourists out to the reef for snorkeling and diving trips, including top-rated providers like Cancun Adventures and Fury Catamarans , and past visitors heartily recommend taking advantage. In fact, many travelers rave about the clear waters and their encounters with healthy and thriving corals, sea turtles and lobsters. However, some past visitors have said that some Cozumel hotels aren’t far from the reef, including Iberostar Cozumel, so you can do some snorkeling from the shore.

Xplor Park Priority Access Day Trip with Lunch and Transportation

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Mayan Cacao Company Mayan Cacao Company

Mayan Cacao Company offers a handful of tours that last 50 minutes to two hours and introduce visitors to various aspects of chocolate making. Travelers can learn all about the processes involved in turning natural cacao into chocolate candy, and they can even make their own chocolate bar. The longest tour available teaches both chocolate making and margarita making at once, and it’s only available for visitors ages 18 and older. Other available tours are for participants 5 and older.

Tours also include activities like homemade tortilla tasting, Mayan purification rituals and visits to a traditional Mayan hut. Past visitors agree that visiting the Mayan Cacao Company is both informative and fun, and say you can learn a lot while enjoying delicious food and drinks.

Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park

Chankanaab is a Mayan term that means "small sea," and the outdoor park is named for its coastal cenote, which features diving and snorkeling tours, dolphin encounters and a relaxing beach. There are also opportunities for zip lining and touring a tequila facility, along with gardens, nature trails and picturesque grounds for both exploring and relaxing. There's even a spa located on the premises. 

Recent visitors raved about the park's diving opportunities and agreed that it is the perfect place to bring families and groups, as there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Some reviewers noted it was a touristy experience with an inflated price tag, but most agreed it was a fun day. 

San Gervasio Ruins (Zona Arqueológica San Gervasio) San Gervasio Ruins (Zona Arqueológica San Gervasio)

Mayan women used to visit this shrine in central Cozumel to pay tribute to the goddess of love and fertility, Ixchel. Today, you can pay a tribute of your own by taking a brief tour of this ruin; it costs about $14 to access the park including both admission fees and a community access fee. Some might grumble about the cost of admission, but previous visitors do recommend you take some time to visit San Gervasio if you have never seen Mayan ruins up close. Plus, there are a variety of small lizards and larger iguanas on the grounds. 

El Museo de la Isla de Cozumel (Cozumel Island Museum) El Museo de la Isla de Cozumel (Cozumel Island Museum)

If you want to learn more about Cozumel's history, check out this excellent museum in downtown San Miguel, which received a full renovation in 2019. The Museo de la Isla de Cozumel (Cozumel Island Museum), a former luxury hotel, features a total of 11 interactive exhibits that showcase everything from the island's ecosystems, local development and conservation issues to old Mayan and Spanish colonial artifacts. The museum also displays the more recent history of Cozumel, with exhibits on the area's 20th-century cultural and economic development.

Travelers particularly enjoyed the museum for the chance to learn the island's history, while still leaving time for the beach and water sports. Several reviewers also appreciated the temporary exhibit rooms, which have displayed the work of local and international artists, as well as the history of Carnaval celebrations on the island. Recent visitors said you should be able to see everything within an hour or two, so you'll still have plenty of time left in your day to do other things.

Playa El Cielo Playa El Cielo

U.S. News Insider Tip : Playa El Cielo is best known for its proximity to the El Cielo Reef, which is a sanctuary for sea animals that is only reachable by boat. Pack plenty of reef-safe sunscreen if you’re planning a full day here. – Holly D. Johnson

Playa El Cielo is a stunning white sand beach that is well known for its crystal-clear waters that are home to starfish, stingrays and other marine animals. Visitors can book a range of water tours here that can help them explore under the sea by boat, and all with the help of a professional guide. The beach also has a sandbar water lovers can swim out to.

Custom Private Cozumel Jeep Tour: All-Inclusive Tour

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Private Jeep & ATV Tour to Jade Cavern Cenote: All-Inclusive

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(101 reviews)

Playa Uvas Beach Club Playa Uvas Beach Club

Plata Uvas Beach Club is a basic beach club that offers snorkeling, kayaking, chairs and umbrellas, along with access to other amenities, for a day rate. Travelers can book an all-inclusive beach day at the club, which includes limitless food and drinks for four hours. The beach itself features powdery white sand and turquoise waters Cozumel is famous for.

A $15 entrance fee gets you a welcome drink, snorkel gear with the option for a guided tour, 30 minutes of kayaking and coverage of marine park fees. You also get a chair, umbrella and free Wi-Fi for this price. All-inclusive experiences with food and drink included cost $55 for adults and $45 for children. Some visitors agree that food and drinks are overpriced outside of the all-inclusive package. Many say the snorkeling at Playa Uvas is exceptional, and that you can see all kinds of wildlife from tropical fish to baby sharks.

Celarain Lighthouse Celarain Lighthouse

Celarain Lighthouse is a restored lighthouse-turned-museum that’s located within Punta Sur Eco Beach Park . However, it's an attraction in its own right. The lighthouse boasts incredible views of the coastline and the lush greenery that surrounds the park.

The museum in the lighthouse is small and filled with navigation items, and visitors can also relax in hammocks and chairs just outside. Many people come to the lighthouse just to climb up it for higher elevation and incomparable views, however. In fact, the path through the park and to the lighthouse is a popular hiking trail. Visitors agree that the views are worth the trek to the top, but that it’s not for those with limited mobility.

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One Day in Cozumel: What to Do on a Day Trip to Cozumel

Cozumel Mexico is a beautiful island off the coast of Cancun. It’s a popular cruise port and vacation destination. This guide to one day in Cozumel includes what to do, a guide to the port, where to stay, and other travel tips.

I recently visited Cozumel Mexico for one day on two different western Caribbean cruises . It was my first tropical destination in over a year, and it was so refreshing to see the lush greenery, bright blue waters, and experience island life again.

Since Cozumel is a relatively small island, it’s possible to see most of it in only one day! Whether you are craving an organized tour, time on the water, or an adventure, there is the perfect activity for you.

This guide includes general travel tips for Cozumel, a list of all the top activities, and the tours I highly recommend checking out. Keep reading to begin planning your Cozumel day trip!

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

What to Do in One Day in Cozumel

Even though Cozumel is small, there are many great things to do. Since you only have one day in Cozumel, I recommend choosing your top one to two activities to hit during the day.

Alternatively, you can take a one-day tour that hits a lot of these highlights which I recommend in the following section.

Cozumel’s coast boarders the Mesoamerican reef, which is the second largest reef in the world. (The first is the Great Barrier reef).

This makes Cozumel the perfect destination for scuba or snorkeling. Since I’m not PADI certified and scuba terrifies me, snorkeling is my preference.

There are a couple options for snorkeling in Cozumel. The first is visiting a day club and snorkeling off the beach. The other option is booking a snorkeling tour.

When I say day club, I’m not referencing pool parties with DJ’s like you might find in Vegas. The beach clubs in Cozumel are private beaches that often have a bar, restaurant, lounge chairs for rent, snorkel equipment, and easy water access.

During my one day in Cozumel, I visited the SkyReef beach club to snorkel. The beach has snorkel equipment to rent, a white sand beach, and direct access to the ocean with lively reefs.

If snorkeling is the only activity you want to do during your day in Cozumel, I recommend taking a boat tour . This will give you access to better reefs and more fish.

If you are snorkeling anywhere, be sure to pack reef safe sunscreen to protect this fragile ecosystem.

2. Punta Del Sur National Park

A great site to see in Cozumel is the Punta Del Sur National Park. Located at the southern tip of the island, this national park has beautiful scenery and is a great way to experience the nature of the island without interruption .

If you are renting a car for your day in Cozumel, simply drive to the park and pay the entrance fee. If you are taking an island tour, this stop will likely be included.

At the Punta Del Sur National Park, be sure to see the following sights:

• Mangrove with lookout tower
• Museum (location next to the light house)

3. Island Loop Drive

The island of Cozumel is 40 miles long by 10 miles wide. Since it is a small island, its possible to drive the entire thing in one day.

The Cozumel Island loop road is 40 miles around and circles the entire southern part of the island. The northern part of the island is not reachable by car.

The island loop is also very easy to drive on your own. Simply rent a car, hop on the road, and stop whenever a destination stands out.

Some of the destinations along the road are scenic lookouts, bars, restaurants, and beach clubs. If don’t plan to stop a lot, budget 90 minutes to complete the loop. If you stop a lot, budget at least a half day.  

The best stops on a Cozumel road trip are as follows:

Money Bar – Upscale beach bar with a restaurant and snorkeling

Alberto’s – Laid-back beach bar with large drinks, great service, and palapas in the sand

Mr Sanchos – This is one of the most popular beach clubs in Cozumel. If you like crowds and a party atmosphere, this is the best place for you

Freedom in Paradise – Large reggae-themed bar with amazing panoramic ocean views

Welcome to Miami – The best mojito I’ve ever had! And they provide to-go cups

Punta Morena Beach – This bar has large palapas with tables and lounge chairs for each group. I loved the extra space.

There is easy beach access, great food, amazing service, and great drinks. This is an underrated, cant-miss stop.

4. Tequila Tasting

When in Mexico, you need to try some tequila! If tasting tequila gives you bad memories from college, don’t worry. The craft tequila on the island is a much better experience.

There are many different locations to try tequila, but I recommend El Jefe.

They will explain the different varieties of tequila and how to use them, whether in cocktails or for sipping.

Next, they explain the distilling process of tequila from harvesting the agave to aging the tequila itself. Finally, you can enjoy a tasting of the different aged tequila and some fun flavors.

The Best Tours to Take in Cozumel

If you only have one day in Cozumel, I highly recommend taking a tour. I think a local tour allows you to learn more about the culture and see more of the island than you can realistically tackle on your own in one day.

Top Three Tours for Exploring Cozumel in One Day:

Private Buggy Island Tour

✅ Travel at your own pace and choose your own itinerary

✅ Learn about Cozumel from a local guide

What’s Included : The private buggy island tour is the best way to see all of Cozumel in only one day. It includes roundtrip transportation from the cruise port, your hotel, or the ferry terminal.

The full day tour will visit a snorkeling location, a beautiful beach, an authentic Mexican lunch, and a tequila tasting.

Since the tour is private, you can choose to add additional stops or extend your stay at any of the predetermined stops.

This is the tour I took on my recent trip to Cozumel and it was a highlight of my entire vacation. I loved seeing the entire island, trying some local customs, and getting to know our guide, Rene.

Snorkel by Catamaran

What’s Included : As mentioned above, if your only plan for Cozumel is to snorkel, a boat tour is the way to go.

This tour includes all your snorkeling equipment, entrance to a beach club and national park, multiple snorkeling locations, drinks, and a meal.

This tour all but guarantees you will see amazing reefs and marine life.

ATV Adventure

What’s Included : The north portion of Cozumel is not reachable by car. It is reachable by ATV though. An ATV tour is a great way to explore the jungle side of the island.

This tour includes an adventure around the island through paved paths, mud pits, and other off-road terrain.

What makes this ATV tour better than some other options on the island is that it includes a stop at a cenote for a swim.

Itinerary for a Day Trip to Cozumel

Above I describe all the best things to do and excursions in Cozumel Mexico. However, you may still be wondering what to do in Cozumel in one day.

This 1 day itinerary for Cozumel is perfect if you are visiting on a cruise ship or as a day trip from Cancun or Playa Del Carmen.

Morning : Start the day with a private tour of the island , to learn about the most popular sights from an expert local guide.

The tour will visit popular destinations such as a beach club, snorkeling beach, tequila factory, and local lunch.

Alternatively, you could rent a car and take a self-guided island tour. However, with only one day I recommend a guided tour for more efficiency and the local touch.

Afternoon : The private island tour concludes with a local lunch in the early afternoon. Spend the rest of the afternoon swimming in the clear Caribbean waters at a beach club.

My favorite beach club in Cozumel is Alberto’s, which is only a couple of miles from the cruise port. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sandy beach.

Where to Stay in Cozumel

If you are planning to visit Cozumel for more than one day, the below hotels are great options! Since I visited on a cruise ship, I have not stayed in either of these hotels, but I want to go back and stay in both some day.

The Westin Cozumel – the Westin is a beautiful beachfront property with gorgeous swimming pools, a private white sand beach, a luxury spa, and 2 onsite restaurants and bars. The rooms at the Westin Cozumel have a fresh, clean, coastal style and look like the perfect oasis.

The Intercontinental Cozumel – the intercontinental is another great resort option in Cozumel. The rooms are a bit outdated compared to the Westin, but the property is fantastic. The Intercontinental Cozumel has 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, private beach access, 4 onsite restaurants and 2 bars.

Getting to Cozumel

Visitors to Cozumel are mostly cruise passengers or visitors from mainland Mexico. If you are arriving on a cruise, you will simply arrive in port and be in the heart of Cozumel.

There are two different cruise ports, one into downtown Cozumel and one that is a couple miles away. Both terminals are in a convenient location to start your day.

If you are visiting Cozumel from mainland Mexico, such as Cancun or the Riviera Maya, a ferry is your best option.

This Cozumel ferry leaves hourly between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen and costs $10.50 for adults and $6.25 for kids (as of 2021). The ferry trip is only 45 minutes and is usually a calm ride.

Transportation around the Island

Getting around Cozumel is easy. Depending on what you plan to do, I recommend using taxis or renting a car for the day .

If you’re planning to explore the entire island on your own, I recommend renting a car. This will give you the freedom to stop wherever you want and save you time calling multiple taxis throughout the day.

Instead of renting a car to explore, you may be temped to rent a scooter. While this looks super fun, there are some people who target tourists on scooters or even steal parked scooters.

For your safety, I recommend sticking to a car rental.

If you’re planning to visit only one site during your day in Cozumel, using a taxi is the way to go. They are plentiful all over the island and a safe option.

Before starting your ride, either negotiate the price for the trip or ensure they are using a fair meter.

Quick Facts about Cozumel

Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Cozumel is from November to May when average daily temperatures are around 80 degrees. Avoid late summer and early fall, which is hurricane / rainy season in Cozumel.

How Long to Visit : Cozumel is a popular single day destination, whether as a cruise port or a day trip from Cancun. If you want to spend a bit more time, a long weekend is the perfect amount of time to explore the island and have extra time to relax.     

Currency : The official currency in Cozumel is the Mexican peso. However, American dollars are accepted everywhere. The exchange rate as of 2022 is roughly 20 pesos per 1 USD.

Language : The official language in Cozumel is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in the tourist areas.

Safety : Cozumel is a generally safe destination. As with any foreign country, keep minimal valuables on you, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid going out alone after dark.

FAQ – What to Do in Cozumel in One Day

Getting to Cozumel from Cancun is easy – just take a ferry! Ferries leave from Playa del Carmen, which is about an hour south of Cancun. The total journey should take around an hour and a half.

Yes, Cozumel is a great day trip destination. With 1 day in Cozumel, you can explore the beautiful beaches, incredible snorkeling, and adventure activities. The island is quite small so a day trip to Cozumel is enough time to drive the entire island and visit the most popular spots.

It is possible to walk around downtown Cozumel. However, to see the best things to do on the island, you will need a car or bike since the island covers many miles.

Summary of One Day in Cozumel

Overall, your day in Cozumel is going to be incredible no matter what you decide to do. My number one recommendation is to take the island tour or do a DIY island tour. This is a great option because it hits all the best sites and allows you to see the entire island.

Whether you’re looking for a beach day or an adventure, this little Mexican island will give you just that, and so much more. From snorkeling to eating delicious Mexican food, the possibilities are truly endless!

If you ever find yourself in the Caribbean , I highly recommend making your way over to Cozumel for at least one day.

Related Posts:

• Women’s Packing List For Mexico All Inclusive
• Outfits To Wear In Mexico For Men – What Do Men Wear In Mexico?
• Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean Cruise Tips And Itinerary
• CocoCay Bahamas Things To Do & One Day Itinerary
• Top Things To Do In Roatan – What To Do In Roatan Honduras In One Day
• One Day In Miami Florida – The Top Things To Do And See
• Quick Guide To One Day In Cozumel For Cruisers And Daytrippers

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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Cozumel, Mexico

The lovely island of Cozumel has long been a favorite of visitors to Mexico. Just off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, the sunny weather tends to be just about perfect, and cool ocean breezes gently whisk away your cares. Coral reefs are a sanctuary for those who revere colorful marine life, while inland Mayan ruins are havens for history buffs. As far as the local towns, they’re just plain fun. If you’re looking for a party, you’ll find it along San Miguel’s waterfront north of Avenue Andrés Quintana Roo. To experience the island in its more rugged state, head to the east side, which gets more wind and bigger waves.

13 things you should do before every cruise

You've booked your cruise. You've booked your flights. You've booked your pre- and post-cruise hotels. Now, it's just a matter of counting the days until your on-the-water adventure begins, right?

Well, not quite.

There are many (mostly) little things you still need to do before you begin your journey to the pier to board your ship.

From downloading your cruise line's app and using it to check in for your trip to signing up for ship-based activities in advance, here's our handy checklist of 13 things everyone should do before leaving home for a cruise vacation.

For more cruise guides, news and reviews, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Check in online

Yeah, I know, you were going to do this anyway. But, just in case you weren't: Know that it pays off big time to check in online before your cruise.

There's a lot of paperwork required to check in for a cruise, including (at many cruise lines) filling out documents asking for personal information such as your name, address, gender, date of birth, nationality and even pregnancy status; emergency contacts; and your pre- and post-cruise travel plans. You'll also be asked to set up an onboard account and submit a photo of yourself.

If you do this all in advance online — and many lines now require that you do — you'll be able to board your ship quicker than if you wait to do it at the pier.

Note that in most cases, you can check in online for a cruise many weeks in advance. At Royal Caribbean , the check-in window opens a full 45 days in advance of a sailing. At Carnival Cruise Line , check-in opens 14 days before departure.

Related: 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Check your identification documents

Long before you check in for your cruise, you should take a glance at whatever identification document you're going to use during the check-in process to make sure it hasn't expired — or is even close to expiring.

On many cruise itineraries, you will need a passport , and many countries that cruise lines visit require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to leave the country. Many countries also require at least two blank pages in your passport. If your passport is full of visa stamps, it's time to get a new one, even if it hasn't expired.

Download the cruise app

Many cruise lines now have apps you can download to your smartphone. The apps vary in capabilities, but many will show you a daily list of activities on your ship and everything you have reserved. Many also will let you make restaurant reservations and book shore excursions and other activities.

A few will let you order drinks and other items (think: pizza and beer) to be brought to wherever you happen to be standing. That's pretty cool, right? The best part: The apps will work on board even if you don't pay for a Wi-Fi package.

Some of the apps also will aid you with the check-in process. The Celebrity Cruises app, for instance, lets you check in for a cruise with relative ease. You'll even be able to submit the security photo the cruise line requires using the Celebrity app. The app also will show your Celebrity Xpress boarding pass, so there's no need to print one in advance of heading to the pier.

Related: The best cruise apps to streamline your vacation at sea

Print out your documents

In theory, you don't need to print your cruise boarding pass if you have it on your mobile device, but I still always do — and I recommend you do the same.

I always keep a hard copy of every travel document — including pages that show my itinerary and reservation numbers for related hotel stays and flights — in my carry-on bag.

There are several reasons to do this. One is that you never know when your mobile device will die or have a connectivity issue that results in the document you need not being available. But you might also encounter authorities — an immigration official at a border, for instance — who will want to see hard copies of your itinerary before allowing you to proceed.

Tell friends and family about your trip

It's always a good idea to let at least a few people close to you know you're leaving on a trip. Give them a rough outline of where you're going and tell them how to contact you in an emergency. This might seem like obvious advice, but a reminder never hurts.

I have forgotten to do this at times — and while it's never resulted in a crisis, it has gotten me in trouble with the family.

I found myself in the big-time doghouse in late 2020 with my 75-year-old, always-worries-when-I-travel mom after forgetting to tell her I was heading to Barbados at the last minute to report on the first Caribbean cruise after the COVID-19 crisis began. She only found out I was out of the country when one of her friends saw me on TV talking about how I was quarantined in my cabin on the ship due to an outbreak of the illness. You can imagine her reaction. Lesson learned.

Also: Call your mom.

Research ports in advance

On some vacations — a beach trip, for instance — you don't have to do much research in advance. You just show up and figure out your days on the fly.

Most cruises aren't that way — at least if you want to get the most out of them. At the heart of most cruises are port calls that, in many cases, are short, often just a few hours. You want to have a plan for what to do in these ports, or you'll miss out on a big part of the cruising experience.

Once you know which ports you'll be visiting, do as much research as you can. You can read TPG's guides to the best excursions and activities in destinations like Alaska , the Caribbean and the Mediterranean .

Join a Facebook group for your cruise line

Another great place to get ideas for what to do in ports and on ships — and what to bring on a cruise, for that matter — are the many private Facebook groups dedicated to particular lines.

I belong to a number of them, including the Royal Caribbean Cruises group, the COPs (Cruisers Opinion Page) group and the Holland America Line Fans group. On these pages, you'll find thousands of cruise fans who often are only too willing to answer questions you might have about your upcoming trip. I've met some wonderful people in these groups, some of whom have become my longtime friends on Facebook.

Sign up for private tours in advance

Booking a shore excursion directly through your cruise line is easy. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof — it's all arranged. But booking tours through your line isn't the only option, and it's not always the best choice.

In many cases, you can save a lot of money — and get a better touring experience — by booking shore excursions in advance through independent tour operators in ports or a tour booking service such as Viator or ToursByLocals .

Often, independent tours will be more intimate than the tours offered directly through cruise lines. They might go to the same sites but in a small van instead of a big motorcoach. You might have six or eight other people on a tour with you instead of nearly 40. If your traveling group is big enough, you might even book a private tour just for your friends and family with an independent tour operator.

Related: We skipped the cruise ship excursion and went with ToursByLocals — here's what happened

Sign up for activities in advance

Some lines will let you sign up for shows, tours and other activities (including meals at specialty restaurants) before sailing using online portals. If you want to be sure you get a seat for a specific show on a specific night, or a specific tour or restaurant reservation time, it's a good idea to do this. It's common for popular shows, tours and restaurant reservation times to book up in advance.

If you don't sign up for activities in advance, a backup strategy is to do so just after you board a vessel — but I'm a big advocate of advance planning. You'll find it particularly pays off when sailing on a giant ship, such as Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , where there are thousands of other passengers competing for restaurant reservations and show tickets.

Related: The 15 best cruise ships for people who want to never grow up

Consider travel insurance

It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising or any other sort of travel. We hate to bring it up, but you might need to cancel your cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness. Or, perhaps, you need emergency medical attention during your sailing. Maybe the flight to your ship gets canceled, and you miss the vessel's departure.

These sorts of things can happen to cruisers, and they're all situations where you might benefit from having travel insurance. Here's a comparison of the top travel insurance providers and information about cancel for any reason add-ons .

Related: Cruise travel insurance: What it covers and why you need it

Pack wisely

For starters, pack early ... and be strategic. Throw all the clothes you think you'll need on the cruise in a pile, then take away half of them. We promise you won't need them.

Most cruising these days is casual, and you only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage. If things get dirty, no problem. Some ships have launderettes on cabin decks where you can run a load or two of laundry every few days. If not, you can send laundry out to be cleaned on board for a fee in most cases (you might even get this for free if you have status with a cruise line ).

The extra cost of doing a few loads of laundry on a ship is a small price to pay for the freedom of not having to lug a giant suitcase around as you travel to and from your ship. Plus, you'll want to save room in your suitcase for all the little treasures you'll find along the way.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry service

In addition to packing light, pack anything you think you might need for the first few hours of your cruise in your carry-on bag . This means things like medication and a phone charger, but also a bathing suit, a hat, sunscreen and other items that'll let you head straight to the pool deck to start the fun. A porter will likely take away your main bag as you arrive at the port, and you might not see it delivered to your cabin for several hours.

Put your phone in airplane mode

Some of the biggest cruise ship horror stories online are tales of cruising newbies who racked up thousands of dollars in cellphone charges while on ships.

This can happen when you leave your phone turned on and, say, watch videos on the internet. Many phone plans — even international plans — do not include talking, texting and data on cruise ships, and you'll pay exorbitant roaming rates for such services that'll show up weeks later on your phone bill.

You can find ways to make calls and access the internet from ships without spending a boatload of money. You can buy a Wi-Fi package, for instance, that'll let you make FaceTime calls and stream videos (on some ships) by Wi-Fi without using phone data. Some phone companies also have cruise-specific plans you can buy in advance of a voyage.

Personally, I never go that route. I keep it simple. I just put my phone in airplane mode the moment I step on board a ship and never switch it back on. I then turn on the phone's Wi-Fi, buy a Wi-Fi package and do all my calling, texting and web surfing over the internet. That way, there's no chance I'll be surprised by an unexpected phone charge.

Get ready to unplug from work

Really, this should go without saying, but you are heading on vacation . Google that word (and scroll down past the entries for the Ed Helms and Chevy Chase movies to the Wikipedia entry).

This trip is going to be all about taking a break from work , not spending hours every day dealing with the latest crisis back at the office — or, at least, it should be.

In the days leading up to your trip, make sure you wrap up any pressing work projects, let your co-workers know you'll be offline, reply to any outstanding emails and — most importantly — turn on your out-of-office message.

Trust us: You'll be so much happier.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
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14 Savvy Tips For Visiting Cozumel on a Cruise

If you’re cruising nearly anywhere in the Caribbean, then there’s a good chance your ship is going to stop in Cozumel. In fact, when it comes to ports outside the United States, Cozumel is at the top of the list (alongside Nassau). Each year more than 3 million cruise passengers make a stop at the Caribbean island.

On the island there is a ton for passengers to see and do. Over the decades it has become a tourist mecca, offering everything from food and culture to adventure sports to relaxing on white-sand beaches.

In other words, no matter what you’re looking to do, Cozumel has something to offer.

With so much happening, there is plenty to know about visiting the port. If your cruise is making a call to Cozumel, then we have you covered. We’ve rounded up a list of more than a dozen tips and things to know to make your trip more enjoyable.

Be Aware of Taxi Rates Before Getting a Cab

Chances are you’ll be using a taxi to get around the island or to get into the main city (San Miguel). To help tourists out and keep them from being fleeced by unscrupulous taxi drivers, taxi rates are flat fees . You’ll find the rates displayed prominently at all the cruise ports. Figure out where you want to go and you’ll see the charge listed for how many people are riding.

Confirm the price of your fare on the display before getting into a cab. Even better, take a photo of the taxi fares on your phone or camera so that you can reference them if there is ever a dispute over the rate.

Cozumel Beaches Are Public

You wouldn’t know it by looking at the hotels along the coastline, but the beaches in Mexico are actually open to the public. That doesn’t mean they are easy to access, however.

Hotels and businesses cut off access unless you either pay a fee or approach from farther down the beach. Still, if you access the beach and find a perfect sandy spot in front of a nice hotel, don’t feel out of place. You have every right to be there. But that doesn’t mean things like beach chairs and umbrellas provided by the business are free for use. Those will be for guests only.

Paying For Beach Access Is Worth It

We understand if you don’t like the idea of paying to access a free public beach. However, many hotels or resorts will allow you access for a small fee (usually $10-30 per person). For that price you get so much more than just a place to put a towel. Resorts charging access typically have cleaner beaches and allow you to use chairs, umbrellas, lockers, and shower facilities as well. It’s a cheap way to spend the day on an idyllic beach.

Cozumel also has a number of spots with day passes where you can get all you can eat and drink, as well as full access to all the facilities and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Don’t Forget to Explore the Other Side of the Island

When your ship comes in, it will dock on the western side of Cozumel. Here there are multiple docks, along with restaurants, hotels, shops, and tons more.

But Cozumel is actually pretty large, and there is a lot that’s outside the populated areas. That includes the eastern side of the island where far fewer people visit. Here you can see what the island was like before it was a tourist mecca, including some classic hole-in-the-wall beach bars and white-sand beaches with far fewer people.

When looking for things to do, check out activities that include sightseeing around the island, including this area. It’s a neat way to get away from the crowds and tourist traps.

Don’t Worry About Having Pesos

If you are wondering where to exchange your U.S. dollars for Mexican pesos, don’t worry. Dollars are widely accepted in Cozumel. Just about any shop you hit will take U.S. currency.

Keep in mind that you might not get the best exchange rate on your purchases, but it’s a small price for the convenience of not having to change your money over. If you would like to pay by credit card, major brands are also accepted in most places.

If Your Spanish Isn’t Great, It’s No Big Deal

No habla español? No problemo.

If you’re just visiting for the day, one of the nice things is that you don’t have to be fluent in Spanish to enjoy the island. With literally millions of American tourists coming to Cozumel each year, those in the tourist industry know English fluently. In fact, you’ll likely be surprised by how little Spanish you hear near the cruise piers and restaurants. But if you do want to try out your Spanish, feel free. The locals appreciate you trying to speak their language.

Credit Cards Get the Best Rates… But Be Careful

There’s no doubt that credit cards offer the most convenience in buying things in Cozumel. For one, you will get closer to the real exchange rate compared to buying with dollars. As well, you don’t have to worry about getting correct change in a foreign currency.

But if you do use your card, you’ll also want to be careful. With passengers coming into port for just a day, it can be tempting for some unscrupulous vendors to try and take advantage. If you use your card, be sure to check your statement when you get home to make sure everything is as it should be.

Grab Things You Forgot in the Cruise Port

During the course of your cruise it’s almost a certainty that you’ll find you run out of toothpaste… or forget your deodorant… or need some more sunscreen. No matter how well you pack, there’s always a little something you’ll find yourself needing.

There are toiletries for sale on the ship, but if you wait until Cozumel, it’s a good idea. The port area has small pharmacies and shops that sell everything from deodorant to diapers and anything in between. Not only will you have more selection, but the prices will also be cheaper than what you’ll pay on the ship.

Here’s the Closest Beach to the Cruise Port

At Cozumel — just like many cruise ports — the beach is a big draw. And on an island, there are beaches everywhere, right?

Unfortunately, Cozumel’s shore near where the ship docks is pretty rocky. If you’re expecting wide beaches, that’s not the case. The closest “beach” to the ship is at the El Cid hotel, which offers day passes for cruise passengers . They’ve created a small sand beach for guests. The hotel is literally right next door to the cruise terminal, but you’ll need to walk out of the port and then next door to the hotel.

Just keep in mind it’s not the classic white-sand beach with big palm trees you might picture in your mind. For those sorts of beaches you need to go farther down the coast.

Cozumel’s Best Beaches Are South & East

Ok, so you hit an island in the Caribbean and you want to head to the beach. You aren’t alone. When you visit Cozumel on your cruise, however, you’ll want to head south or east to find the best beaches on the island. (Note: There are also a few nice spots like Isla de Pasion on the north side.)

At these areas you’ll find that the rocky shore seen near the cruise terminal gives way to more sand. As well, on the southwest side of the island is where you’ll find many of the beach clubs that cater to cruise passengers .

Getting to these spots is easy. There will be dozens of taxi cabs right at the exit of the port. Rides to the top beach spots will usually cost between $10-$20 each way.

Get Your Souvenir Photo For Free in Front of the Ship

One tip for visiting Cozumel on a cruise is to be sure to get one of the most memorable photos on the island. In the cruise port near the water, you’ll see a large set of letters spelling out “Cozumel” with the cruise ship in the background.

This is put in as a free photo opportunity. The letters are bright and colorful, and the vantage point looks back toward the ships that are in port. You’ll find tons of people grabbing a photo. It’s a great way to remember your cruise.

Going Somewhere Other Than the Port? You’ll Need a Cab

When you disembark from the ship, you’ll find yourself in the middle of a port complex. Here you’ll find shops, restaurants, and more all designed to cater to cruise passengers. However, most of the things to do and see are outside of the port. Unfortunately, given the location of the pier, that means you’ll almost always need a taxi.

While there is some development around the port, things like beaches, the town of San Miguel, restaurants, and excursions are away from the ships. If you have an excursion booked, it will normally include transportation to and from the cruise terminal. If you’re exploring on your own, then you’ll want a cab.

Drink Cheaper Off the Ship

Having a beer or a cocktail on the cruise ship can be expensive. It’s not unusual to pay $6-8 for a beer and $10-14 for a mixed drink. The good news? Cozumel features a number of bars in the port where you can grab a drink for less. So you can get your fill without having to empty your pocketbook.

There is one exception — if you have a drink package on the ship. In this case your drinks are included on the ship even if it is in port. So yes, drinking would be less expensive on the ship in this case. However, it’s doubtful that you’ll be running back and forth from the ship to have an adult beverage.

Get Free Wi-Fi in Port

These days Wi-Fi is a necessity — not just something nice to have. Whether you are checking up on work email or checking in back home, being connected is important.

You can access the Internet on the cruise ship, but it’s pricey. Often access can run $20 per day. So on a week-long cruise you can spend more than $100. If you want to save some money and just need occasional access, then wait until you hit Cozumel.

In the port area you can find spots like restaurants that offer Wi-Fi to customers. One such place is Pancho’s Backyard, a Mexican food restaurant in the port. Here you can have a margarita and chow down and have free online access.

In addition, many cellular plans extend to Mexico automatically, allowing you to use cell data instead of Wi-Fi.

More on Cozumel:

63 Can’t-Miss Things For Cruise Passengers to Do in Cozumel

• Complete Guide to Visiting Cozumel on a Cruise
• 8 Top Cozumel Hotels & Beaches With Day Passes for Cruise Passengers

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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25+ Miami Hotels Near the Cruise Port With Shuttles (Free & Paid)

Here’s when new cruise ships are worth the higher fares, 8 things definitely worth it on a cruise…and 3 places to save your money, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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How to find a cruise excursion you’ll actually enjoy

Ben Souza has had some unforgettable shore excursions. On a cruise from Singapore to Thailand , he and his wife visited an elephant sanctuary, a high point in their dozen years of cruising. On a Caribbean voyage, he booked a tranquil day at a Bahamas resort. The property turned out to be ratty, with a trash-filled pool and a mediocre beach.

Unlike the animal encounter in Phuket, he wishes he could wipe that outing from his memory.

“If I had been on my own private tour, I could have left and went to a better place to relax,” said Souza, the editor of Cruise Fever who has sailed on 75 ships with 18 cruise lines.

For passengers, the land is as important as the sea. Many travelers choose a voyage based on the ports. However, because shore time is limited, they must be savvy when planning their excursions.

The most convenient option is to sign up for an outing through the cruise ship. The cruise line makes the arrangements and vets the operators, which is especially important in destinations with safety concerns. Onboard credits apply to excursions. In the event of a cancellation or disruption, the cruise line will issue a refund. Most important, the captain will always wait for tour groups to return, even if they arrive past the scheduled departure time.

“Some guests value having the cruise line handle everything,” said Michael Consoli, who owns a travel agency that specializes in cruises. “So they just have to leave their house and come home.”

Booking an excursion with the cruise line comes with disadvantages. If the trip requires a minimum number of guests, the ship will cancel outings that do not meet its quota. Alternately, if too many people sign up, you may feel like a lost lamb in a flock. On a recent Royal Caribbean excursion in St. Kitts, we waited in a broiling parking lot while the guide tried to find us a spot on the packed tour bus. He finally plopped us down on a hard jump seat that blocked the exit.

Excursions organized by cruise lines can also feel like a highly touristy way to see a port destination. During our trip aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise , shore excursions ranged from a $59-per-person beach day, including chair and umbrella reservations, to ethically questionable wildlife experiences like an “Up-Close Encounter” with dolphins.

The cost is also higher than booking with a third-party operator, because cruise lines place a premium on extras. Independent travelers can save 25 to 40 percent on tours they plan themselves, according to Souza. On a Hawaii cruise, he arranged an island adventure that was nearly identical to one offered by the ship, except for the price.

“We all ended up on the same river cruise together. The only difference was we took different buses to get there and everyone who booked through the cruise line paid double,” he said.

Organizing your own excursions has additional benefits, such as greater flexibility, smaller group size, a wider variety of activities and a more personalized experience.

“If you want a truly unique experience while traveling,” said Souza, who organized a side trip to Capri for an upcoming Princess cruise that stops in Naples, “sometimes you just have to do your own thing.”

For advice on planning shore excursions, we spoke with cruising experts and tapped into our own seafaring adventures. Here are our top tips.

1. Book excursions as early as possible

Cruise lines open up reservations weeks or months before the ship’s departure date. Consoli said excursions sell out on luxury cruises that offer free shore activities, such as Regent Seven Seas and Silver Sea. The limited spots also fill up on mega cruise ships with thousands of passengers, such as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas .

“When you have a ship with 7,000 passengers, it’s going to be harder to get excursions,” he said.

If you change your mind, you can often cancel without penalty, depending on the ship.

You should also plan ahead if you are booking with a local outfitter. Tours and guides can be hard to come by on busy cruise days or during peak travel periods.

2. Stick with cruise lines on complicated outings

When deciding between a ship’s excursion and your own, consider the complexity of the outing. If the adventure involves several modes of transportation or long distances, signing up with the cruise line is the safer bet. On the other hand, if the excursion is close by and straightforward, you can easily make your own arrangements.

“If I was going to Cozumel and I wanted to do the pyramids or ruins on the mainland, I would book a tour through the cruise line because you’re leaving the island and you want to make sure you get back on time,” said Doug Parker, guest host of Cruise News Today . “But in Nassau, where I can see the ships from most places on the island, I would … do something on my own.”

In some countries that require tourist visas, only passengers who are touring with a licensed operator can disembark without the document. Souza discovered this arrangement on a Mediterranean cruise that stopped in Algeria and Tunisia. Consoli said China recently introduced similar restrictions.

3. Research tour options before the cruise

Part of the appeal of cruising is that the company oversees every detail. However, you should still read reviews of excursions posted on Cruise Critic , Tripadvisor or reputable cruise blogs to guide your decisions.

If you strike out on your own, carefully research the guides and operators in your destination, including the ones who solicit business inside the cruise terminal. Check their credentials and ask to see pertinent licenses.

Many cruisers use the same outfitters as landlubbers, such as Viator and Tours by Locals . Shore Excursions is also popular. You may also be able to find your own activities like cooking classes and food tours on Airbnb Experiences .

Parker said some excursions, such as hop-on/hop-off buses, are a set price, regardless of whether you book through the ship or the outfitter. However, if the purveyor has an online promotion, you might save a sliver of money.

If you book your cruise with a travel agency, the agent can also arrange private shore excursions. In addition to overseeing the planning, the adviser provides a safety net and can reschedule or cancel the tour on your behalf. Consoli said some planners, such as himself, do not charge for this service; they earn their commission through the cruise line and tour operators.

4. Look outside the terminal for better prices

Tour operators, rental agencies and taxi drivers hike up prices in cruise terminals. For lower rates, venture a short distance away from the disembarkation point.

If you take a cab to an attraction where taxis seem scarce, arrange a pickup time. Ilana Schattauer, who blogs at Life Well Cruised , recommends hiring the driver for the entire excursion.

“If I was doing something that was a little bit off the beaten path or if I wanted to go to a more secluded beach, I would have the driver stay with me,” she said. “Or I would book a tour where the tour guide and driver stay there.”

During our Margaritaville at Sea sailing, we used Google Maps to find a scooter rental company in Grand Bahama. Around 9 p.m. we called Bullseye Car Rental , a local agency with strong reviews. Despite the late time, owner Raymond Bowe answered on the second ring. He knew our cruise schedule, offered to pick us up and drop us off from port, and gave us clear instructions for where to find him when we docked. The total for the day’s rental: $49, including transfer and helmets — about half the cost of taking the cheapest shore excursion from the cruise line.

5. Ask locals what to do, eat and drink

If you haven’t planned your off-ship day down to the minute, talk to taxi drivers, shop keepers and other locals to get tips. Crew members, who are often familiar with the ports, also are great resources.

In Grand Bahama, Bowe was an invaluable source of intel for how to spend our day. We’d made no plans and instead took Bowe’s suggestions for beaches and restaurants.

That’s how we ended up at Bernie’s Tiki Hu t , where lunch for two — Bahama Mama cocktails and a fresh lobster tail fried on the spot — cost $35. We ate on the beach in front of the tiki shack, then swam in the sea before driving down to Terry’s Conch Salad Stand . Owner Terry Pratt showed us the process of breaking a live conch out of its shell and preparing it into a Bahamian ceviche. It was $11 for a bowl and far better than anything we ate on the ship.

6. Give yourself at least an hour for the return

If you have ever left an airport during a long layover, this rule will sound familiar: Don’t cut it close . Give yourself an hour or two before final boarding time.

“If the ship is sailing at 4, I try to be back at 3,” Parker said.

Schattauer reminds cruisers that in some destinations, such as Caribbean islands, the small roads can get congested, especially when passengers are returning to the ships around the same time. She said a few years ago, she rode a shuttle to Magens Bay on St. Thomas. The trip to the beach was a quick 15 to 20 minutes. The return took an hour longer. Because she gave herself a two-hour buffer, she arrived at the terminal before the ship sailed off.

New cruise ship coming to Florida. 10 things to know about Margaritaville at Sea's Islander

There's a new "kid" in town.

Margaritaville at Sea will launch its second ship, the Islander, in June out of the Port of Tampa Bay. Margaritaville's first ship, Paradise, cruises out of the Port of Palm Beach .

Tampa Bay was chosen for the company's second ship since the Port of Palm Beach was too small to accommodate the newest addition.

Margaritaville's Paradise: What's more Jimmy Buffett-like than a cruise to Key West - Margaritaville's latest destination

Here's everything you need to know about Margaritaville at Sea and its newest ship, the Islander.

Margaritaville at Sea Islander inaugural cruise scheduled for June 14

The inaugural cruise for the Islander is scheduled for June 14 out of the Port of Tampa Bay.

Margarit avil le at Sea Islander by the numbers

• 2,650 passengers
• 1,105 staterooms
• 12 different stateroom and suite types
• 700 balcony staterooms
• 12 passenger decks
• 14-story atrium
• 3 multi-story floating margarita glass chandeliers.

The Islander underwent "extensive reimagining" at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland, before beginning its three-week trip to Florida May 19, according to a Margaritaville at Sea Facebook post.

The custom styling is "reminiscent of the sand, sea and sky" and includes Margaritaville’s signature bedding, pillows and linens.

There are more than 700 Breezy Balcony staterooms, Grand Terrace Suites, "luxurious" Corner Suites, and "ultra-exclusive" Islander Signature Suites.

What is the itinerary for Islander's inaugural cruise out of Tampa Bay?  

Margaritaville at Sea Islander’s inaugural sailing takes place over four nights, featuring a stop in Cozumel, Mexico, and two sea days.  

Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea, said the purchase of the second ship was to accommodate requests from customers for longer itineraries and new ports of call.

What type of cruises will Margaritaville's Islander offer?

The Islander will offer four- and five-night cruises to Key West and Mexico, with stops in Cozumel and Progreso. 

Coming in 2025 will be six- and seven-night voyages to Belize, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, according to a news release.

How much do Margaritaville at Sea cruises cost?

Cost for inaugural cruise to Cozumel

• Interior rooms: $379
• Ocean-view rooms: $429
• Breezy Balcony rooms: $639
• Grand Terrace suites: $799

Special deals: Get 50% off and kids ages 3-12 sail free.

Depending on dates, cruises out of Tampa Bay can drop as low as $299 for an interior room and $689 for a Grand Terrace suite.

In 2025, a seven-day cruise to Key West; Cozumel, Mexico; and Progreso, Mexico, range from $479 for an interior room to $879 for a Grand Terrace suite.

What about entertainment? What is there to do on Margaritaville's Islander?

"From adults to young travelers, everyone onboard the Islander will find their own entertaining slice of paradise — including live music enclaves, thrilling outer deck adventures, an all-ages lounge and arcade, and a first-ever cornhole-meets-mini-golf challenge course.  

“The new Islander is packed with an exciting variety of active and interactive ways for cruisers of all ages to enjoy their fun in the sun,” said Karen Maybury, vice president of entertainment at Margaritaville at Sea.

“The new lineup of programming and activities designed specifically for children, teens, and families will greatly enhance the cruise experience, creating unforgettable memories for all of our guests.” 

Among the family-friendly offerings on the Islander, as described by Margaritaville at Sea, are:

• Caribbean Amphibian Play Pad & Slide : Designed for young adventurers, this paradise playground will feature an elevated play space, waterslide, and splash-and-spray “lily” pad for fun-filled exploration.
• Dis and Dat Activity Zone : The whole family can join the challenge with the first-ever cornhole-meets-mini-golf course at sea. This unique take on two fan-favorite games on the outer deck will put guests’ skills to the test for one-of-a-kind fun.
• Paradise Pickleball at Sea : Join the craze with some friendly competition on the high seas with the ultimate pickleball match.
• Defying Gravity Experience : A family experience for all ages with unbelievable circus-themed workshops, interactive game shows, and scavenger hunts.
• Far Side of the World Arcade and Lounge : Teens can sip on Boba Milk Tea, sing their favorite karaoke songs, and take the arcade by storm in this family-forward lounge area.
• 5 o’Clock Somewhere: It’s always island time at this signature pool, where the music never stops and the vibe is just right to relax, grab a bite, or make a splash. 
• Coral Reef Lounge : Dive into this aquarium-inspired lounge with mermaids and mocktails, family karaoke, hilarious comedy acts, and other surprises.   

There also are four complimentary kid’s programs:

• Jolly Mon (ages 3-5) : A fun-filled day of ocean-inspired games, arts and crafts, immersive experiences, mermaid storytelling, and visits from friendly characters.
• Parakeets Kid’s Club (ages 6-9): A full itinerary featuring magic workshops, the “Escape from Chichen Itza” game, mini-DJ academy, sports hour on deck, ship tour, and crazy hat party.
• The Hang Out (ages 10-12): High-energy games and sports such as pickleball classes, basketball, mini golf, and corn hole tournaments, along with DJ academy sessions, magic workshops, Mar-glo-ritaville glow party, pop star jam sessions with musicians, and more.
• The Far Out (ages 13-17) : This teens-only club offers a movie night, a nightclub takeover, a scavenger hunt with prizes, percussion workshops, and a Tik-Tok/Instagram content battle

Parking at Port of Tampa Bay for Margaritaville cruises

Parking at the Port of Tampa Bay for Margaritaville at Sea cruises depends on the cruise dates. For the June 14-18 cruise, parking costs are:

• 1 vehicle: $63
• 1 vehicle, valet: $83
• Oversized valet: $146

Parking costs for other dates are either the same as the inaugural cruise or:

• 1 vehicle: $78.75
• 1 vehicle, valet: $98.75
• Oversized valet: $177.50

Where is the Port of Tampa Bay?

The Port of Tampa Bay is located in Tampa on the northeast section of Tampa Bay.

Tampa is located on the west coast of Florida about 70 miles southwest of Orlando.

What is Margaritaville at Sea?

"Margaritaville at Sea brings Margaritaville’s iconic hospitality to the open ocean for a one-of-a-kind offshore vacation experience," the company said in a news release.

"The ships also feature numerous inclusive and specialty dining restaurants centered around chef-crafted, island-inspired cuisine, uniquely themed bars and lounges that provide non-stop live entertainment paired with premium cocktails, kids’ clubs and arcades, the action-packed Margaritaville Casino, the St. Somewhere Spa & Salon, multiple pools, hot tubs, and plenty of quiet spaces."

Margaritaville at Sea is a new venture with the owners of the former Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line and Margaritaville Enterprises, according to its website.

The company launched Margaritaville at Sea Paradise out of Palm Beach in May 2022.

Follow Margaritaville at Sea on social media

Follow Margaritaville at Sea on both Facebook and Instagram .

Contributor: Mike Diamond, Palm Beach Post

Why the journey is the destination when it comes to Alaska cruises

They say getting there is half the fun. Usually, I disagree. When I travel, I want to get to where I’m going as quickly as possible to make the most of my time there. However, sailing Celebrity Edge on its maiden Alaska voyage from Seattle, I was all about the journey.

Staring up at the snow-capped mountains through the ship’s floor-to-ceiling windows and watching for wildlife in the icy waters below, I was mesmerized by the famed Last Frontier. And I realized that on an Alaska cruise , the journey is a destination.

Here’s why and what travelers should know about cruising Alaska.

Why is Alaska a popular cruise destination?

Alaska is a bucket-list destination for many people. Some may wait their whole lives for the trip. While Alaska Airlines and other carriers fly throughout America’s largest state , it isn’t as easy to navigate as the Lower 48.

Cruises allow travelers to visit multiple destinations without taking separate flights, renting a car or moving from hotel to hotel. My Edge itinerary included stops in Ketchikan, which is surrounded by the lush Tongass National Forest ; the state capital of Juneau, which is only accessible by air or sea; and Skagway, home of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park . The ship also carefully navigated the stunning Endicott Arm fjord toward Dawes Glacier, a highlight of the trip.

The easy trip can also be more accessible for people with mobility issues and other disabilities. Like other cruise lines, Celebrity has a team dedicated to accessible cruising . Numerous guests on board my sailing used walkers, canes or wheelchairs. Plus, it’s just nice to be able to take in the dramatic coastlines from the comfort of a cozy cabin or lounge when it’s chilly outside.

Are cruises to Alaska worth it?

They can be. At last check, the lowest price on a seven-night Celebrity Edge Alaska Dawes Glacier sailing, roundtrip from Seattle, for the remainder of this summer is listed at $778 per person on the cruise line’s website, based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom. That does not include travel to or from Seattle nor any taxes or fees, which can balloon the bottom line on any cruise. Nor does it include promotional discounts, which are pretty much always available. After taxes and fees, that works to about $2,212 for two people or $1,106 per person. 

The cheapest seven-night Southbound Glacier sailing on the Edge’s sister ship, Celebrity Summit , is much less at $249 per person, based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom. It’s worth noting the Southbound voyage goes from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia, not a round trip. Also the Summit is not an Edge-class ship , The Celebrity Edge is the first Edge class ship to sail Alaska; it was also the first ship in Celebrity’s most recent series, which also includes the new Celebrity Ascent . Edge-class ships were designed to bring guests closer than ever to their destinations, with their signature Magic Carpet cantilevered platform that extends beyond the ship’s edge and other features that bring the outside in. After taxes and fees, the Summit sailing adds up to about $1,231 for two people or about $615 a person.

Both are cheaper than flying between cities and staying at hotels for a week in Alaska, but they're also cheaper than other popular vacations. For example, seven nights at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort , a value resort at Walt Disney World , costs $955 for the room alone, including taxes and a summer promo deal. Adding seven days of park tickets, without park hopping, and the total becomes $2,195 for two people or about $1,098 per person, excluding food.

Meanwhile, cruises include all onboard meals – except optional specialty dining and alcohol. There are also a boatload of included activities, like nature talks, tai chi classes, guided arts and crafts, trivia, games and childcare. There’s live music available through the day and nightly stage shows. I sampled a little bit of everything, but for me, the best part of the ship was the views.

Inside Ascent: 3 takeaways from Celebrity Cruises' new ship

Do you see wildlife on an Alaskan cruise?

Yes. I saw whale spouts three times from the ship, though the whales didn’t breach above water. I also saw a handful of harbor seals and a dozen eagles from the ship and from shore. Bald eagles are so common in Alaska that a tour bus driver jokingly called them bald seagulls. There are 30,000 bald eagles in the state, according to the Alaska Department of Fish & Game. 

I kept an eye out for bears on an excursion to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. I didn’t see any walking along the paved, wheelchair-accessible Nugget Falls Trail, but I did spot all sorts of spring buds and the most beautiful moss.

The ship’s onboard naturalist gave us a heads-up on what to look for and taught us about various species in presentations in the ship’s theater. She also broadcasted live on the ship’s TV channel and inside speakers while traveling through the Endicott Arm. However, her voice wasn’t carried on outside speakers to avoid potentially disturbing wildlife.

What is the best month to go on a cruise to Alaska?

The Alaska cruise season runs from late April to early October, though dates vary by cruise line. Guests who sail early or late in the season may find lower rates than during the height of the summer, but they may miss out on warmer weather.

It was in the 40s to 50s most days of my May sailing, and it rained on our Juneau day. The onboard naturalist warned that there is no bad weather in Alaska, only poor clothing choices.

How much should I budget for an Alaskan cruise?

You should pad your budget with several hundred extra dollars for excursions and dining off-ship. Both can be pricey but enriching. My Mendenhall Glacier excursion was just under $130, including transportation and an off-site Gold Creek Salmon Bake , with all-you-can-eat fresh salmon cooked over a wood-burning fire.  I’ve never had better fried fish than the local halibut at The Alaska Fish House in Ketchikan, and I will be dreaming of the sweet, plump red king crab at Tracy’s King Crab Shack in Juneau for years to come.  If you want freshly caught Alaska seafood, you’ll want to get it at port.

You may be able to spot whales from the cruise ship, but if you really want to go whale watching, salmon fishing, dog sledding, or get up close to glaciers, that’s generally going to require an excursion. Excursions offered through cruise lines tend to cost more than those booked independently, but booking through the cruise line can streamline payment and ensure that the ship won’t leave without you if the excursion runs late.

One port you can enjoy on the cheap is Skagway. You can explore several exhibits and historic buildings on your own, as part of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. However many visitors splurge on a scenic train ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway up to the Canadian border and back.

Is it worth getting a balcony on a cruise?

Yes and no. The views throughout Alaska are breathtaking, and being able to enjoy them from your cabin any time of day feels luxurious. I loved waking up to mountains, thick with trees, outside my window and scanning the waters for marinelife before bed.

Just over 80% of Celebrity Edge’s staterooms have a balcony. I had an Infinite Veranda , which is unique to Edge-class ships. Rather than a traditional balcony with a sliding glass door, Infinite Verandas incorporate what would be exterior balcony space into the interior of the cabin and have a window that slides halfway down the exterior wall with the push of a button. I loved how much bigger it made the cabin feel and appreciated the extra climate-controlled living space. It was still chilly during my early season sailing, so I rarely put the window down and think I would have enjoyed a non-balcony, oceanview room just as much.

Of course, if you book an inside cabin, you can still enjoy the scenery from public areas of any ship. The Celebrity Edge brings the outside in with tons of windows, including in the buffet restaurant, Oceanview Cafe, where I spotted my first whale spout. In the back of the ship, there’s a relaxing mixed-use space called Eden with three stories of windows that I found myself drawn to daily. The solarium, with its tall windows and rows of lounge chairs, also offered expansive views. 

Do I need a passport for an Alaskan cruise?

Maybe. For a closed-loop cruise that starts and ends in the same U.S. port, like the one I was on, all you need is proof of citizenship. 

“According to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, this includes an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship; a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the person was born) or passport; and if 16 or older, a government-issued driver’s license or picture ID denoting photo, name, and date of birth,” according to Celebrity.

Of course, not all Alaska cruises are closed-loop cruises. Some start or end in Vancouver, Canada. There are also cruises on several smaller U.S.-flagged cruise lines like Alaska Dream Cruises and Uncruise Adventures , which may not require passports depending on the itinerary.

Can you see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?

It’s possible, but because daylight hours are so long during the summer in Alaska, the best chance to see them would be on a cruise late in the season.

I woke up in the middle of the night a few times to look for Northern Light. I didn’t see any, but I heard passengers on a previous sailing spotted them. Then again, so did people all across the country during the solar storm earlier this month.

The reporter on this story received access from Celebrity Cruises. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.