cozumel mexico safe to travel

Cozumel Is Very Safe To Visit But If You're Concerned, Here's What To Watch Out For

Cozumel is known for its high safety rating but for concerned travelers, here are the things you can avoid while you're there.

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How To Stay Safe In Cozumel, Mexico

Some destinations cause a bit of hesitancy when it comes to the level of safety that travelers will experience while there. When it comes to safety in Mexico , several cities have received a poor rap in terms of crime and while this might be true to some extent, it's not necessarily true in parts of Mexico such as Cozumel.

This somewhat remote island off the coast of Playa del Carmen has seen some headlining new stories, but nothing that should deter tourists from considering it. With that being said, there are always extra precautions that can be taken to avoid getting into an unsavory situation on vacation.

UPDATE: 2022/11/30 15:26 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Cozumel is one of the safest parts of Mexico, but still, people are urged to take care when visiting any part of Mexico. This article was updated with some official travel advice and to provide a greater picture of the safety situation in Cozumel and the rest of Mexico based on the advice of the US Department of State. There are parts of Mexico no one should visit. Fortunately, Cozumel is a place even US government employees can visit without restrictions.

Updated by Joshua Chiedu, January 11, 2022: Crime is one important thing to take into account when visiting a destination; especially one in the Mexican region. The good news is that Cozumel is low on crime. But that’s not all; There are other important information travelers need to know before visiting this Island. These include the Island’s description, its language, activities to enjoy, and also some tips to ensure travelers have a great time on their visit to the Mexican Island.

What To Know About Cozumel

Cozumel is the largest Island among Mexico’s Caribbean Islands. San Miguel, its largest city, is considered to be the main town on the Island. The primary language is Spanish but English is also widely spoken. Cozumel is richly endowed with lush mangrove forest and beautiful beaches. The Island is also home to lots of endemic animals such as the Cozumel harvest mouse and the Cozumel Island Raccoon. The most popular activities to enjoy here include - snorkeling, fishing, visiting wildlife parks, and sailing.

Safety In Cozumel, Mexico

When it comes to the official crime rating for Cozumel, Numbeo reports it as being 'low' with a score of 34.48 out of 100. While any number for a crime level might seem high, travelers must consider the fact that this number takes into account every single crime that has the potential to occur. Therefore, out of a total of 11 of the most common crimes, this is the median number that has been averaged - meaning that even if one crime, in particular, has more of a chance of occurring, the overall crime rate is still low.

Additionally, travelers should feel safe knowing that Numbeo has reported a 'very low' level of random attacks, and 'low' crime levels regarding theft, robbery, mugging, assault, or anything involving illegal substances. Overall, there aren't many threats to travelers according to the information reported by both travelers as well as those who live there.

The safety rating for people walking in Cozumel during the day is 88 which is considered 'very high' while the safety level for walking around the island at night is 68, which is still considered 'high.' So, what can travelers do to keep these high safety ratings accurate?

Related: The Most Romantic Beach In The World Is Hidden On This Island In Mexico

Take Safety Into Your Own Hands

It's more likely that a visitor to Cozumel will end up in hot water due to something of their own volition rather than something that happens to them. For example, Coz Info reports seeing more incidents from people renting motorized scooters without knowing how to drive them over things such as theft. Another common mistake is when a tourist underestimates the skill it takes to do something such as snorkeling or scuba diving, especially and ends up in a potentially dangerous situation.

Another way that travelers often end up in bad situations is by drinking too much when they're out, thus leaving themselves wide open for petty crime. It wouldn't be the first time that someone has left their purse, wallet, or phone at a table while enjoying the nightlife, and it's a true recipe for disaster. However, at the same time, this applies to anywhere - not just in Cozumel!

What To Watching Out For (That Wouldn't Be User Error)

It's important to know that much of the crime and violence that travelers believe to be true about Mexico is fueled by film and TV. Any serious crime is likely to happen at the border which is why there's such a heavy police force. In a remote, quite, and relaxing place as Cozumel, it's not likely that travelers will run into anything within the same realm of the crime that occurs in a place such as Baja.

Therefore, it's a good idea to simply take the same precautions in Cozumel that one would in any city. For example, when visiting New York City for the first time, it wouldn't be the greatest idea to walk down an empty alleyway at night. Similarly, it wouldn't be a good idea to flaunt expensive jewelry or items in a place one is unfamiliar with. Being aware of one's surroundings and avoiding any situation where disorientation is a possibility would also be wise. Those requiring taxi transportation can find sitios, which are hubs for registered taxis whose drivers carried laminated cards with their information, including taxi fees. Additionally, visitors should avoid renting mopeds no matter how confident they might be in their motorbiking skills.

Related: Remember These Etiquette Rules For A Smooth Trip To Mexico

Additional Things To Consider

It's a well-known rule that tourists should avoid drinking the water in Mexico. This rule also applies to Cozumel and it would do a traveler well to inquire about the source of water in their resort or hotel. Concerning restaurants, a majority of them do use prepared (bottled) water to cook with, but it's always a good idea to double-check with one's server to be sure.

Travelers should bear in mind weather safety, as well - hurricane season usually hits the hardest between June and October. It's worth it to seek out hotels and resorts that ensure a 'hurricane guarantee' if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

More Tips For Travelers Visiting Cozumel

• Avoid parts of the beach where there are red or black flags. These signify dangerous sea conditions.
• Get travel insurance before visiting Cozumel for full preparation.
• In most cases, pay in Pesos to avoid rip-offs.
• It is very sunny in Cozumel which makes sunscreens, sun glasses, and hats important things to bring along.
• For transportation, taxis are cheaper than rented cars.
• To avoid foot injuries from sharp objects, wear shoes on the beaches.
• Consider tipping good service providers.

What Is The Overall Safety Situation In Mexico?

The Australian government urges its citizens to be careful while visiting Mexico. They advise against protests, large public gatherings, not traveling out of the major cities at night, watching out for criminality (e.g. robbery, assault, kidnapping), stopping at all roadblocks, and only using ATMs in public spaces (and during the daytime).

The US Department of State has similar advice and cautions American citizens about visiting due to the high levels of crime in the country.

The Department of State also has a breakdown of travel advice for each state of Mexico. For some travelers are advised not to travel to, others to reconsider the need to travel, others to exercise increased caution, and only a couple to exercise normal precautions.

Cozumel is in Quintana Roo state and the Department urges "exercise increased caution". Also, there are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. They caution travelers to remain in the tourist locations, the well-lit pedestrian streets, and to watch out after dark.

Next: Here's How Far $100 USD Will Get You In Mexico

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Once a sleepy and little-known island, Cozumel is now recognized as one of the hottest destinations on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Each year, tourists flock here to flip-flop on white sandy beaches and totally unwind to the slow rhythm of island life. But is Cozumel safe to visit?

You’ll be happy to hear that Cozumel is one of the safest destinations in all of Mexico. As a remote and relatively undeveloped island, Cozumel generally does not experience the levels of violence, or even petty crime, that’s prevalent in the rest of the country. The U.S Department of State ranks Cozumel’s threat level alongside the likes of Japan and the Netherlands – both destinations that are renowned for their low levels of crime.

That being said, no place is totally devoid of risks. It would be wrong to suggest that Cozumel is 100% safe for tourists. As with most places in the world, it’s important that visitors use common sense when it comes to their personal safety, from how they carry valuables to whether they drink the tap water. Read on for our breakdown of all you need to know to stay safe in Cozumel to learn more…

Table of Contents

Is Cozumel safe right now?

Is Cozumel safe to visit in 2022? The general answer is yes, so long as you keep your wits about you and use some basic common sense. According to Numbeo.com , Cozumel has a low level of crime, scoring 34.38. For context, this is miles safer than Mexico City, which scores 79.61, and even New York, which has a score of 50.06!

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Mexico as a whole has a bad reputation when it comes to personal safety, and perhaps rightly so. However, it’s worth pointing out that the vast majority of violent crimes that occur in the country don’t involve tourists. Even so, the gang-related violence that Mexico has become famous for doesn’t happen on Cozumel all that often at all. Tourists are much more likely to encounter danger from sunburn or crashing a moto scooter than they are from the locals. This is due to a number of factors. Firstly, its isolation as an island means that it attracts less opportunistic petty criminals that hop on buses from other parts of the country to prey on tourists. Secondly, it has a large navy presence which generally deters crime.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that general safety rules don’t apply in Cozumel. Just as you wouldn’t go out with huge amounts of cash on your person or flash your valuables around in any big city, you probably shouldn’t do that here. Same goes for steering clear of the dodgiest areas of the island and taking all the normal precautions against scams and other dangers.

Other safety risks in Cozumel come from the natural world. Tropical cyclones are a fact of life for Caribbean islanders, and Cozumel is no exception. Hurricane safety awareness is important for anyone planning to head here in August, September, or October – the storm season. You’ll find cheaper accommodation rates at this time, but you may end up spending your holiday battening down the hatches to stay safe in a typhoon!

Is Cozumel safe for solo female travelers?

If you’re traveling solo, you may be wondering if Cozumel is safe for solo travelers. Again, the answer is generally that it is, so long as you follow basic safety guidelines…

As we’ve already noted, this island has WAY better safety credentials than destinations just over the strait on the Mexican mainland, and it’s rated as safer than cities like New York. It’s usually okay to walk by yourself during the day and at night, make day trips on your own, and book hotel rooms as a solo female. The island is pretty used to seeing travelers from all walks of life, whether that’s LGBTQ+ folks or women coming on their own, and the locals really know the value of such tourism, so they work hard to make trips go off without a hitch.

We would say that there are ALWAYS added dangers when you travel alone as a female. Stats show that it makes you more likely to fall victim to common travel scams but also adds the risk of violent sexual crimes, which, sadly, nowhere is immune to. It’s certainly unlikely here, but it’s still a good idea to follow some precautions – never leave drinks unattended in bars, be wary of the advances of strangers, and always let someone know where you’re going.

Is Cozumel safe to live in?

Whether you’re a digital nomad looking to spend a few months in Cozumel or someone seeking a more permanent relocation, it’ll come as good news that Cozumel is probably one of the safest places to live in Mexico. According to Numbeo.com , incidences of attacks are low (the isle is rated as 27.0/100), there’s a low chance of cars being stolen (24.0/100), and muggings and robberies are at low levels too (34/100). However, crimes such as property theft and home break-ins are a bit more prevalent, respectively receiving a moderate and high threat level of 48.0 and 62.0, although that’s still less than many major US cities.

While it’s not totally devoid of crime, Cozumel is pretty safe compared to virtually any other destination in the world, so if you’re a sucker for the slow pace of island life, it’s definitely a destination to consider!

Is Cozumel safe for nightlife?

So you want to party in Cozumel? Well, you’ll be pleased to hear that not only does Cozumel have a buzzy little nightlife scene, but it’s all really rather safe. Almost all of Cozumel’s best bars and regions are in the main tourist street, Melgar Avenue. This is a well-lit and well-populated area of the island, so it’s perfectly fine to stroll down here at night, even on your own. 

Of course, partying anywhere in the world comes with a few hazards. It goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave your drink unattended, and keep an eye on your possessions – drunk people can become the targets of petty crimes like pickpocketing more often than thier sober compadres. Always keep an eye out for people you went out with, and don’t hop on your rented moped while inebriated! Ever!

Is the tap water in Cozumel safe to drink?

Cozumel may be a safe place to live and visit, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe to drink tap water! As in other parts of Mexico, drinking the tap water won’t lead to serious harm, but it could make you feel fairly unwell. Trust us, you don’t want to spend large chunks of your holiday feeling queasy – there are too many coral reefs, dive sites, and cotton-colored beaches to get through!

Unless the place you’re staying at purifies their own tap water system, you’re better off drinking bottled water (even the locals often drink it). If you’re extra sensitive, it’s also probably a good idea to skip the ice in your drinks and to keep your mouth closed in the shower. You should remember to wash any fresh fruit and vegetables with filtered water, too.

The island;s reliance on bottled water is, of course, terrible in terms of plastic pollution. As such, it’s worth considering buying some sort of portable water filtration system. For example, the SteriPen water purifier is a great on-the-go solution to ensure that you have access to filtered, drinkable water wherever you go. Or there’s the LifeStraw bottle , which filters out bacteria, parasites, chemicals, and microplastics as you drink.

Is Cozumel safe at night?

Cozumel is generally safe at night. In fact, Numbeo.com finds that it is highly safe to walk alone in Cozumel at night, scoring 68. This does, however, contrast to a very high safety score of 88 when walking alone during the day – so it’s worth being mindful that safety levels in Cozumel do drop a fair bit once the sun goes away.

While there is a low chance of muggings and assaults in Cozumel, tourists would do well to stick to the busy and well-lit streets of the main drag-way, Melgar Avenue. There can be a temptation to venture onto beaches after dark, and 9 out of 10 times it’s perfectly safe to do so. However, as these areas do tend to be secluded and unlit, you probably shouldn’t hang out there too long, particularly if you’re by yourself.

Renting mopeds on Cozumel

Be ready to be greeted by touts offering moped rentals and car hires the moment you step off the ferry from Playa del Carmen. They swarm new arrivals and many folks take them up on the offer. Why not? Cozumel measures just 26 miles from tip to tail and just under 10 miles across. It’s just about perfect for exploring on your own bike.

Not so fast. We’d say mopeds are arguably the number one cause of accidents among travelers on the island. Forget violent cartel crime, it’s bike-on-bike action or bike-on-tarmac action that is the leading culprit when it comes to ruined holidays.

The issue is that so many of the people who rent here either have zero knowledge of how to ride bikes (Mexico is a touch laxer in who they’ll rent to than the USA), let alone hold necessary licenses and documents.

The better option is to go for an e-bike. Yes, it might require a little bit more effort but it’s a whole load more fun, means you get rewarding exercise as you move from cove to cove, costs less, and has a way lower incidence rate when it comes to serious accidents.

If you simply must hire a moped, never settle on the initial price and always make a point of saying you’re not a cruise ship visitor. Many touts start the bidding at around $40 for the day but they often happy to rent a bike for $15-25.

The weather in Cozumel

Cozumel is blessed with fine weather for much of the year. Temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s, there’s oodles and oodles of sun, and the Trade Winds come in at a steady pace to offer breezes on the beaches. The top time to travel is generally thought to be between December and March, which should come as music to the ears of US snowbirds looking to escape the cold winter months.

When it comes to safety, the only time of year you might want to be wary of is the hurricane season. It starts in the mid-to-late summer and ends in the late fall – the months from July to November are really the peak of it. During this time, there’s a chance that big tropical storm systems will drift over from the Caribbean and wreak havoc with high winds and heavy rain, which has been known to cause flooding and property damage.

The good news is that Cozumel has only seen two proper hurricanes in the last three decades. So, the risk is low but it’s not non-existent. We should also note that Cozumel’s most popular beaches are west-facing, meaning they don’t attract the same seaweed blooms as the Riviera Maya in the summer months, though there is more sargassum on the east coast and more in the water, so the diving won’t be as good.

Top 7 Cozumel safety tips

In summary, Cozumel is a perfectly safe place to visit, so long as you use a bit of common sense and take some fairly obvious precautions. Here’s a list of seven useful tips to make sure you have a safe and worry-free trip to Cozumel.

• Keep your valuables out of sight. This one is fairly obvious, but it’s so important that it’s worth repeating: Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy jewelry (even if it’s not expensive jewelry), using smartphones, tablets, or expensive-looking cameras in plain view of others, or by carrying large amounts of cash. Be conscious of the way you carry your possessions, too. For example, don’t walk around with your smartphone in your back pocket, or use a bag without a secure zip. 
• If you’re mugged, don’t resist. We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: Incidences of muggings and robberies are very low in Cozumel – so don’t worry too much. However, it’s worth knowing that, should you be mugged, it’s not wise to struggle. While no one wants to hand over their possessions, it’s always the safer option than risking angering a potentially-armed criminal. 
• Never head out without sunscreen and water. Without meaning to sound like your mother, you should always arm yourself with sun protection and water in Mexico. There’s no hiding from the sun in Cozumel, and sun-induced illnesses, such as sun stroke, are among the biggest safety threats you’ll encounter here.
• Take caution on mopeds. It’s quite common for tourists to rent mopeds to zip around Cozumel. While a fun way to get around, this can be dangerous. Locals report seeing at least two accidents per week. If you do choose to rent a moped, always ensure that you’re driving responsibly – that means not driving while drunk, sticking to the right hand-side of the road, and not exceeding two people per moped.
• Don’t lurk in unlit and isolated areas at night . While it can be tempting to take a dip by moonlight, the beach isn’t always safe in the dark. The same goes for quieter, unlit and isolated areas of the island. It’s likely that nothing will happen, but wouldn’t you rather be safe than sorry?

So, is Cozumel safe? Our conclusion

Cozumel actually reigns as one the safest places in the whole of Mexico. In fact, we’d say it’s a fantastic choice of destination for anyone who wants a hit of seafood tacos and mariachi but is concerned about the soaring crime rates of places like Cancun , Acapulco, and Cabo . Yes, there’s cartel violence in the region, but Cozumel itself continues to dodge almost all of it and incidents of petty crime and whatnot actually compare favourably to many cities in the USA. The real main worries are from the sun, which can get very hot, and moped accidents, probably the number one cause of accident among travelers to Cozumel.

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As a traveler, I always consider safety a top priority when choosing a destination. Cozumel, a Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea, is often a point of interest for its beautiful coral reefs and aquatic activities. Based on what I’ve learned, Cozumel maintains a reputation for being safe for tourists, with a low crime rate that is reassuring for those looking to enjoy its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.

I understand that while no destination can guarantee complete safety, Cozumel seems to have taken steps to ensure the well-being of its visitors. The local authorities emphasize official taxi services to avoid any risks associated with unregistered transportation. Moreover, Cozumel’s safety index is high for both day and night, which is comforting to know. However, it’s worth noting the U.S. Department of State often advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Mexico due to crime, and it’s always advisable to check their latest travel advisory before any trip. Purchasing travel insurance could also provide an extra layer of security for any unforeseen events.

• Cozumel is known for its low crime rate and focus on tourist safety.
• Official transportation options are recommended to ensure safe travel around the island.
• Checking the latest travel advisories and considering travel insurance are prudent steps before visiting.

Safety and Security Concerns in Cozumel

In my experience, Cozumel is often recognized for its warmth towards tourists and the overall low crime rate. However, it’s important for visitors to be aware of safety indices and take appropriate measures to safeguard their belongings, especially in tourist hotspots.

Crime and Safety Index

Cozumel generally reports lower crime rates compared to broader Mexican statistics. I’ve observed tourists feel comfortable exploring, due in part to a safety index that hovers around 65.37%. This doesn’t imply the absence of crime, but as a traveler, being vigilant, particularly after dark in less populated areas, is a smart practice.

Dealing with Thefts and Scams

Theft, including petty theft like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. I always advise to keep valuables in my hotel safe, carry minimal cash, and watch my belongings. Scams can happen, particularly with cab fares, so it’s wise to agree on a price before the trip and use official taxi services to avoid being overcharged.

Transportation Tips for Tourists

Regarding transportation, official taxis (“sitio”) are generally reliable and safe. I’ve learned to recognize them by their registration. Renting mopeds can be tempting, but I’ve known many tourists to face accidents; sticking to official cabs or transportation from all-inclusive resorts usually offers a better safety margin.

Water Safety and Recreational Activities

When it comes to the sea, I swim where lifeguards are present and beware of strong currents. I’ve found it essential to respect warnings about water activities and weather conditions to mitigate the risk of potential water-related accidents. It’s definitely better to be cautious, even when engaging in recreational activities.

Traveler’s Guide to Cozumel’s Attractions

Cozumel, Mexico offers a vibrant blend of marine wonders and cultural treasures that promise a safe and captivating experience for tourists. From the clear blue waters of the Caribbean Sea to the bustling streets of San Miguel, I’ll help you navigate through some of the best adventures that Cozumel has to offer.

Exploring Beaches and Marine Life

The beaches in Cozumel are a paradise for anyone who loves the sun, sea, and sand.  Playa Palancar  is a stunning beach with powdery white sand and water so clear that I can see fish swimming at my feet. It’s the perfect spot for snorkeling or diving, being part of the Mesoamerican Reef System, the second-largest coral reef in the world. At  Chankanaab Beach Park , just a short 15-minute drive from the cruise port, I find not only beaches but also an opportunity for swimming with dolphins. For underwater enthusiasts,  Palancar Reef  offers an exceptional scuba diving experience that rivals the Great Barrier Reef.

Cultural Experiences and Adventure Tours

When I’m looking to connect with the heart of Cozumel, I dive into the wealth of cultural experiences on the island. The  San Gervasio Mayan Archaeological Site , located about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from San Miguel, brings me closer to ancient Mayan civilization. For adventure, the eco-park  Punta Sur  beckons with its lighthouse, Mayan ruins, and a crocodile-filled lagoon. It’s essential to wear sunscreen and a hat during these tours, especially between June and August when the average temperature hovers around 31°C (88°F).

Best Times for Visiting Cozumel

Timing my trip can greatly affect my experience. The best time to visit Cozumel is from March to June when the weather is warm and before the rainy season starts in earnest. I make sure to check for any travel advisories from the U.S. State Department, and I’ve learned that hurricane season runs from June to November. If I plan my visit during these warmer months, I avoid the colder temperatures that sometimes drop in December through February, which can slide down to 20°C (68°F).

Frequently Asked Questions

Tourists often inquire about safety measures before traveling to Cozumel. I’m here to address those concerns with some of the most frequently asked questions.

What are the safety concerns for tourists visiting Cozumel?

I’ve noticed that travelers typically worry about petty theft and tourist-targeted scams. Keeping an eye on personal belongings and using reputable service providers are good practices to avoid such issues.

How does Cozumel’s safety at night compare to daytime?

From what I’ve experienced, Cozumel at night can be quite safe in tourist areas. However, as with any travel destination, it’s wise to be more cautious after dark, staying in well-lit and populated areas.

Are there specific advisories from the U.S. State Department regarding travel to Cozumel?

Last I checked, there were no specific advisories for Cozumel that differed from the general travel guidelines issued for Mexico. Always verify for the most current information before traveling.

Can visitors feel secure from criminal activity like kidnapping in Cozumel?

In my understanding, kidnappings are incredibly rare in Cozumel, especially against tourists. It is known for having a lower crime rate compared to other regions.

Is there a significant difference in safety between Cozumel and other places like Cancun or Costa Maya for travelers?

Cozumel tends to be quieter and some say safer due to its island nature. Unlike busy spots like Cancun, Cozumel’s smaller scale often equates to a more laid-back and secure atmosphere.

Are cruise passengers at risk when stopping in Cozumel, and how cautious should they be?

Cruise passengers typically stay in tourist areas where safety is a priority. Remaining vigilant and keeping an eye on personal belongings is recommended, but there’s no need for undue worry.

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Is Cozumel Safe to Travel? | 2024 Tourists Safety

Cozumel is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates compared to other destinations in Mexico.

Numbeo:  Numbeo, a popular cost-of-living and safety website, gives Cozumel a  crime index of 34.38 , which is classified as  “low” . This means the perceived crime level is lower than 65.62% of all cities in the world.

World Population Review:  This website cites a  crime rate of 21.7 per 1,000 residents  in Cozumel for 2023, which is significantly lower than the national average for Mexico.

The island’s economy heavily relies on tourism, and local authorities prioritize the safety and well-being of visitors.

However, like any tourist destination, travelers should remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid potential risks.

In This Article

Is Cozumel Safe for Cruise Passengers?

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Cozumel generally maintains a reputation as a safe destination for travelers, with crime rates lower than many mainland Mexican cities.

As with any trip, it’s advisable to be mindful of your surroundings and exercise caution.

Cruise passengers can usually feel safe visiting Cozumel, as millions of tourists visit the island annually without any problems.

But as with any place, you should be mindful of your surroundings and proceed with caution.

• Travel to well-traveled areas, avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.
• Keep belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets.
• Book excursions through reputable companies.
• Follow safety guidelines provided by cruise line or tour operator.
• Carry passport and cruise ship itinerary.
• Ensure a safe and enjoyable visit by staying vigilant.

Cozumel is generally considered safe for American tourists, with low crime rates compared to mainland Mexico.

However, like any destination, it’s essential to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Stay in well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.
• Avoid displaying valuable items or carrying large cash.
• Use reputable transportation services.
• Be cautious of unlicensed taxis.
• Stay informed about local news and travel advisories.
• Practice common-sense safety measures for a safe journey.

Cozumel tends to be safe for solo female travelers, with the same precautions as any other tourist destination.

While crimes are uncommon, it is wise to remain alert and conscious of your surroundings, particularly at night.

• Follow safety guidelines: stick to well-lit, populated areas, avoid walking alone after dark.
• Consider group tours or activities for safety.
• Trust instincts and avoid risky situations.
• Enjoy a rewarding, memorable experience.

Also Check: What Not to Do in Cozumel: 20 Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to food and water safety in Cozumel, travelers can take simple precautions to ensure a healthy and enjoyable experience.

Stick to bottled or purified water for drinking and brushing teeth to avoid any potential contamination.

• Choose clean, hygiene-conscious restaurants.
• Choose hot, cooked foods over raw or undercooked meats and seafood.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with purified water or peel before consumption.
• Minimize foodborne illnesses to enjoy Cozumel’s cuisine.

Cozumel remains a vibrant island destination, and travelers prioritizing safety can enjoy a responsible and relaxing escape.

As of February 25th, 2024, Cozumel boasts a “Safe Travels” certification and maintains low infection rates . Here’s what you need to know:

• Entry Requirements: Currently, no COVID-19 tests or vaccinations are required for entry. However, travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Safety Measures: Most hotels and businesses adhere to strict hygiene protocols and encourage social distancing . Many restaurants offer outdoor seating and mask-wearing is common in some areas.

Cozumel’s beaches typically boast calm waters and gentle currents, making them suitable for swimming and water activities.

However, like any coastal destination, certain safety hazards may exist, including rip currents, changing tides, and underwater hazards such as rocks or coral.

Safe Beach Enjoyment Tips:

• Swim near designated lifeguard stations for emergency assistance and local beach conditions.
• Respect warning flags and signs indicating water conditions. Red flags indicate hazardous conditions, green flags indicate safe areas.
• Stay aware of changing tide levels, wave patterns, and underwater terrain. Avoid swimming alone and watch children.
• Use sun protection with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
• Know your limits and engage in water activities that you’re comfortable with.

Beaches for Safe Enjoyment:

• Playa Palancar: Ideal for swimming and snorkeling due to calm waters and soft white sand. Lifeguards present during peak hours.
• Playa San Francisco: Favored by families with children due to shallow waters and gentle waves.
• Playa Mia Grand Beach Park: Suitable for families and water sports enthusiasts with designated swimming area, lifeguards, water slides, kayaks, and beachside dining.
• Dry season: November to April, sunny days, minimal rainfall, comfortable temperatures (mid-70s to low-80s Fahrenheit). Ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and beach lounging.
• Rainy season: May to October, higher humidity, occasional showers or thunderstorms, warm temperatures (mid-80s to low-90s Fahrenheit). Expect brief downpours but enjoy outdoor excursions.

Peak Season:

• Runs from December to April, coinciding with winter in North America and Europe.
• Ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and beach relaxation.
• Requires booking accommodations and activities in advance due to higher prices and crowds.

Shoulder Season:

• May to June and September to November offer a balance of favorable weather and fewer crowds.
• Offers leisurely exploration and offseason discounts on accommodations and activities.

Low Season:

• Spans from July to August, characterized by higher temperatures and increased humidity.
• Sees fewer tourists but offers great deals on accommodations and quieter beaches and attractions.
• Stick to Tourist Areas: When exploring Cozumel independently, stick to well-trodden tourist areas and avoid venturing into unfamiliar or remote areas, especially after dark.
• Use Licensed Taxis: Opt for licensed taxis or transportation services recommended by your cruise line or hotel to ensure safety and reliability.
• Guard Your Belongings: Keep your belongings secure at all times, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Use a money belt or concealed pouch to store valuables and carry only essential items when out and about.
• Stay Informed: Stay informed about local safety guidelines, weather conditions, and any potential risks or warnings issued by authorities before disembarking from your cruise ship.
• Respect Local Customs: Show respect for local customs, traditions, and cultural norms when interacting with residents. Avoid engaging in risky or disrespectful behavior that may attract unwanted attention.
• Stay Hydrated and Sunscreen: Cozumel’s tropical climate can be intense, so stay hydrated, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade to prevent sunburn and dehydration.
• Stay Connected: Ensure you have a reliable means of communication, such as a cell phone or walkie-talkie, to stay connected with your travel companions and cruise ship.
• Emergency Contacts: Carry a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, your cruise line’s emergency hotline, and the nearest embassy or consulate.
• Shore Excursions: Consider booking shore excursions through your cruise line or reputable tour operators to explore Cozumel’s attractions safely.
• Beach Visits: Enjoy a relaxing day at one of Cozumel’s pristine beaches , such as Playa Palancar or Playa Mia, which are popular and well-maintained.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Experience the island’s stunning underwater world with guided snorkeling or diving excursions, where trained professionals ensure your safety and enjoyment.
• Cultural Tours: Discover Cozumel’s rich history and culture through guided tours of ancient Mayan ruins , like San Gervasio , or visits to local museums and cultural centers.

Also Check: Cozumel Visitors Guide 2024 | Things To Do, Dining & Resorts

• Carry a copy of your passport and other important documents, and store the originals in a secure location.
• Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid displaying large sums of cash in public.
• If participating in water activities or excursions, ensure that safety equipment is provided and follow instructions from experienced guides or instructors.

While Cozumel offers a safe and welcoming environment for travelers, exercising caution and being aware of your surroundings is essential to ensure a trouble-free vacation.

By following these simple tips and recommendations, you can enjoy all that Cozumel has to offer while prioritizing your safety and peace of mind.

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" Greetings, fellow traveler! We are the Cozumel Visit Team, your helpful local expert on everything Cozumel. Consider us your travel companion, ready to share insider information on the best places to visit, things to do and the most juicy advice for your island adventure. "

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Is Cozumel Safe? Warnings and Tips for Traveling Safely

People come from all over the world to enjoy Cozumel’s beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, Mayan ruins and the variety of fun activities available on the island. Like any travel destination, it’s a good idea to exercise common sense, stay informed about local conditions, and take standard travel precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. 

How Safe is Cozumel?

Why is cozumel so safe, petty crime and theft, being overcharged in restaurants, bars & beachclubs, scams at the gas stations, scuba diving accidents, being overcharged by taxi drivers, rental car and scooter accidents, water contamination and foodborne illness, what not to do in cozumel, is cozumel safe for cruise passengers, what are the risks of petty theft or scams in cozumel, how safe is it to travel around cozumel at night, are there any specific areas in cozumel to avoid, is cozumel safer than cancun, is cozumel safe from drug cartels, what should i know about water safety in cozumel, how are medical services in cozumel in case of an emergency, what should i do in case of a hurricane or other natural disaster on cozumel.

Cozumel is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico and is safe for tourists from the United States and around the world. Is Cozumel safe? I have been traveling with my kids to Cozumel for 20 years and I can tell you without a doubt that it is a safe place to travel. 

Since we moved to the Riviera Maya in 2004, I have taken many trips to the island, on my own, with friends and with my children. At no time did we ever feel unwelcome or unsafe. The only crime I have ever experienced on the island was an attempted (and failed) scam at a local Pemex filling station. Having lived here for over 20 years, I was on to the game and called it out immediately. An unwitting tourist might not be so lucky and I’ve detailed the precautions to take below.

Cozumel has a low crime rate statistically , especially when you compare it to other popular travel destinations in Mexico. User-generated data compiled by Numbeo indicates that Cozumel is relatively safe with a Crime Index of just 33.38 (2024). By comparison, Numbeo shows a Crime Index of 46.77 for Playa del Carmen and 55.16 for Cancun. Orlando, Florida, home of Disney World, has a Crime Index of 48.89.

Cozumel has a much lower crime rate than Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cancun. Violent and drug-related crimes rarely happen here. It is safe to walk around at night and generally, the atmosphere on the island is peaceful. There are few reports of violent crime on the island, and those infrequent incidents seldom involve tourists. The crimes that do occur are generally common scams and petty theft such as pickpocketing and purse snatching. Breaks in and theft from cars and homes have also been reported.

The U.S. Department of State regularly issues statewide Travel Advisories for all U.S. citizens traveling or living in Mexico. Cozumel, the largest island in Mexico, is located in the state of Quintana Roo which is consistently at a Level 2 Travel Advisory. Only the states of Yucatan and Campeche are rated higher at Level 1.

The Mexican Government is heavily invested in keeping tourism flowing into Mexico. The island of Cozumel is supported nearly 100% by tourism. The state and municipal governments coordinate with local police and local business owners on Cozumel to ensure that visitors to the island are safe and happy.

The island has efficient emergency services, strong laws, effective policing, and a culture of mutual respect and trust and cooperation between residents and law enforcement. There are special tourist police who patrol downtown San Miguel and the areas around the cruise port to make sure everyone is safe. They are always ready to help if visitors have any problems. Our family has been to Cozumel many times and never once have we felt unsafe or uncomfortable.

While, I can confidently say that families, couples and solo travelers will all be able to enjoy a fun and safe holiday on this beautiful island, no place is completely safe and without risks.

Common Safety Concerns on Cozumel

Cozumel’s safety record is pretty good, especially compared to other areas of Mexico and most international cities. Criminal activity on the island is minimal. The most common crimes are petty theft and fraud. By using common sense and taking a few basic precautions, you can be sure to have a safe and fun time on Cozumel.

While Cozumel is considered very safe for tourists, there are some legitimate safety concerns to be aware of. These are the most common safety risks to consider when visiting the island and how you can avoid them.

In any popular tourist destination, especially when lots of people are in close proximity, the opportunity for petty crime and theft increases. In a country like Mexico where the disparity between the wealth of the locals and the wealth of the visitors is so great, the risk increases even further.

To reduce your risk of becoming a victim of petty crimes and theft in Cozumel, consider the following precautions:

• Use hotel safes to store important documents, electronics, and other valuables.
• When out, carry only essential items and a copy of your ID. Do not carry large amounts of cash.
• Keep purses and bags closed. Hold them in a way that deters pickpockets (use front pockets, crossbody bags).
• Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry, cameras, or smartphones in public to avoid attracting attention.
• Stay vigilant in crowded areas like the cruise port or ferry terminal where petty theft is more likely.
• Do not leave any valuables in your vehicle, even in the trunk.
• Be careful using ATMs. Keep your debit or credit cards close to you and do not let anyone see your pin.

Following these simple precautions can significantly decrease your risk of becoming a target for thieves.

Whether it’s an honest mistake or on purpose, being overcharged in a tourist hotspot is not uncommon. Sometimes the waitstaff gets overwhelmed and errors on your bill can be made. Sometimes, a server might try to take advantage while you are relaxed and your guard is down. Regardless, this is certainly not unique to Cozumel.

Here are a few things you can do to avoid being overcharged in restaurants and bars in Cozumel:

• Always review the menu prices before ordering.
• Inquire if specials or promotional items are priced differently.
• Be aware of what you’ve ordered and double-check the bill for accuracy.
• Although adding the gratuity to the bill is illegal, some places include a “service charge”. Ask about this to avoid double-tipping.
• Know the daily exchange rate. Paying in the local currency (Mexican peso) can often be cheaper than using foreign currencies.
• If paying by credit card, do not let the card out of your sight. Servers will bring the credit card terminal to you.
• Always ask for a detailed receipt to ensure all charges are justified.
• Choose an all-inclusive beach club to prevent surprise charges and add-on fees.

These strategies can help manage your spending and avoid potential overcharging while enjoying the wonderful restaurants and beach clubs in Cozumel.

Because Cozumel is the largest island destination in Mexico, many people choose to rent cars, Jeeps or scooters to get around and explore during their visit. As most of the rental companies require that you return a vehicle with a full tank of gas, unscrupulous gas station attendants have recognized a captive market in unsuspecting tourists.

Here are the precautions to take to avoid the most common gas station scams:

• Turn off the car when you pull up to the pump. Get out of the car and stand facing the pump.
• If possible, ask for a specific amount of gas in pesos and the type of gas you want. “Doscientos pesos de Magna, por favor”.
• Make sure the attendant “zeros out” the pump before beginning to pump your gas.
• Do not get distracted from the pump. Decline offers to wash your windshield, check your oil or tire pressure. 
• When the gas has been pumped, start your car and check the gas gauge to make sure it is full.
• Count the money out loud as you hand the bills to the attendant.
• Avoid paying with debit or credit cards if possible.
• If you think you have been scammed, threaten to call the police and be prepared to stand by that threat.

Cozumel is one of the top SCUBA destinations in the world with millions of divers coming every year to explore the wonders of the Mesoamerican reef. While the vast majority of divers have a wonderful and safe experience, SCUBA diving is inherently a risky activity. Accidents can and do happen.

Here are some tips for ensuring your safety while snorkeling and scuba diving in Cozumel:

• Select tour providers with strong safety records and positive reviews.
• Check weather conditions before diving. Avoid the water during rough sea conditions.
• Ensure all equipment is functional and familiarize yourself with the gear before diving.
• Dive and snorkel within the boundaries of your certification and experience level.
• Always dive or snorkel with a partner for increased safety.
• Assess your physical condition and avoid diving if feeling unwell or unfit.
• Know the basic emergency procedures and location of the nearest hyperbaric/decompression chamber.
• Avoid touching or disturbing marine life to protect both the environment and yourself.

In our experience, the taxi drivers on Cozumel are much more honest and trustworthy than those in Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Tulum. I have no proof or explanation. This is just my anecdotal experience. However, taxi overcharging has been reported on the island, predominantly from visitors coming from the cruise ship port.

To avoid taxi overcharges in Cozumel, consider these tips:

• Only use properly marked and licensed taxis.
• Always discuss and agree on the taxi fare before starting your journey to avoid surprises.
• Request the driver to use the meter if available. This ensures the fare is regulated and fair.
• Make sure you have the correct change in pesos or USD.
• Before traveling, look up standard taxi rates in Cozumel for common routes, such as from the airport to major hotels or tourist spots.
• Opt for taxis from reputable companies or those recommended by your accommodation.
• Ask for a receipt as proof of the agreed fare and for tracking your expenses.

Cozumel is a big island and one of the the best ways to get around and see it is by renting a car, Jeep or scooter. Sometimes people drive well and responsibly on vacation. Sometimes, they lose their common sense and don’t. In either case, accidents can and do happen.

Here are the ways you can minimize the risk of vehicular and moped accidents in Cozumel:

• Before renting, ensure the car or scooter is in good working condition, checking brakes and lights. Record any existing damage before you depart. 
• Avoid renting scooters or mopeds if you are inexperienced with such vehicles.
• Pay for comprehensive insurance that covers all potential damages and liabilities.
• If renting a scooter, always use a helmet. It’s the law and is crucial for protecting against head injuries.
• Be alert and cautious, anticipating the actions of other drivers and avoiding risky maneuvers. Never drink and drive.
• Familiarize yourself with and obey local driving regulations to avoid fines and accidents.
• Watch for road conditions that could increase accident risks, such as sandy patches, potholes or puddles due to heavy rain.
• Reduce the risk of an accident by not riding at night, especially on poorly illuminated streets.
• If possible, mopeds should ride in a group to increase visibility and safety.
• Use GPS when possible to avoid getting lost and to stay on safer, well-traveled routes.
• Keep local emergency numbers and rental service contacts handy in case of an accident.

As a foodie, I simply cannot imagine visiting a place and not trying all the wonderful local food and drinks. I am also lucky to have a cast iron constitution. While I have never been sick from eating the food in Mexico, illnesses attributed to dodgy food are common among tourists.

To minimize risks from contaminated water and foodborne illness in Cozumel follow the following good practices:

• Do not drink the tap water on Cozumel. Always opt for bottled water, and use it for drinking and brushing your teeth.
• Eat at well-known and reputable restaurants that are more likely to follow proper food safety protocols.
• Opt for establishments where you can see food being prepared cleanly and freshly.
• Be cautious with raw fruits, vegetables, and seafood which might not be washed with purified water.
• Use purified water and Microdyn when preparing fresh vegetables, fruits and greens in your condo or vacation villa.
• Always wash your hands before eating to reduce the risk of transmitting pathogens.
• Be extra cautious if consuming street food, which may not adhere to the same hygiene standards as established restaurants. The locals know best. Choose street carts with lots of local customers.

The Bottom Line… Is Cozumel Safe?

Yes, in general, Cozumel is a very safe place for tourists. All different types of travelers can enjoy the island without being worried about their safety. While no destination can ever be 100% safe, using good common sense can help you mitigate most of the potential risks you might face while visiting this beautiful and peaceful island.

If this is your first time on the island, following the advice and tips in this article will ensure an enjoyable experience. Being prepared and taking just a few simple precautions will keep you safe while still enjoying all that Cozumel has to offer.

Did you find this article helpful? You might also like to read:

Cozumel safety: frequently asked questions.

Cozumel is generally safe for cruise passengers. The island is a popular stop for cruise ships, and local authorities and businesses prioritize tourist safety. Typical precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and at the beach. Cruise passengers are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, keep personal belongings secure, and stick to well-traveled areas. It’s advisable to book excursions through reputable operators, often available directly through cruise lines, which can enhance safety and reliability during visits.

In Cozumel, the primary risks for tourists concerning petty theft and scams include pickpocketing, purse snatching, and deceptive offers, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. Tourists should be vigilant with their belongings, use safe storage options like hotel safes, and remain cautious when dealing with street vendors or unofficial tour operators. Avoid flashing valuables in public and always negotiate prices and terms of services upfront to minimize the risk of getting overcharged or scammed.

Traveling around Cozumel at night is relatively safe, especially in areas frequented by tourists. However, it’s prudent for visitors to stay in well-lit and populated areas. Using reputable taxi services or transportation recommended by hotels or restaurants can further enhance safety. As with any tourist destination, maintaining awareness of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas can help minimize risks.

Cozumel is generally safe for tourists, but like any tourist hotspot, it’s wise to exercise caution. While no specific areas in Cozumel are widely recognized as unsafe, visitors should be more cautious in less populated or poorly lit areas, especially at night. Sticking to tourist-friendly areas, particularly those close to the main attractions and along the waterfront, can help ensure a safer experience. Always remain alert and secure personal belongings, regardless of location.

Cozumel is generally considered safer than Cancun, mainly due to its smaller size and lower crime rates. Cozumel tends to have fewer incidents of violent crime compared to Cancun, which is a larger city. However, both locations require tourists to take standard safety precautions. Stay informed about the area and follow travel advisories from the US Department of State and other authorities.

Cozumel is generally considered safe from drug cartel activity, especially compared to other regions in Mexico. Local authorities and businesses prioritize maintaining a secure environment to ensure visitors have a positive experience. While no place is entirely without risk, Cozumel is not a focal point for the drug-related violence seen in some other parts of Mexico. Visitors are encouraged to practice usual safety precautions.

In Cozumel, water safety is paramount due to the popularity of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors should only swim in designated areas and heed the local warning flags on beaches, which indicate current water conditions. It’s essential to use reputable tour operators for water-based activities and ensure proper safety gear is provided. Be cautious of strong currents and riptides when swimming or snorkeling, especially off of less populated beaches.

Cozumel is equipped with adequate medical services for emergencies. Pharmacies are well-stocked and typically staffed by English-speaking personnel, providing accessibility to necessary medications. The island has several clinics, hyperbaric chambers and a hospital that caters to both locals and tourists. These facilities are capable of handling common medical issues and emergencies. For more severe cases, patients may be transported to larger hospitals in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. 

In case of a hurricane or other natural disaster in Cozumel, it’s crucial to follow local authority directives and emergency procedures. Stay informed through local media and weather updates.  If you are staying at a hotel, follow the staff’s instructions, as they will have protocols in place for such events. Secure shelter in a safe location, preferably an interior room away from windows. Have an emergency kit ready with essentials such as water, food, medications, and important documents.

Michele Samal Kinnon

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Is Cozumel Safe?

Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean Sea, off the Eastern Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Once an abode to the Mayan civilization, Cozumel sits on the world’s second largest coral reef, Mesoamerican reef. You can take a ferry from the Yucatan Peninsula to reach the island within 40 minutes.

It is one of the favorite tourist destinations in Mexico, and the island sees a flux of foreign and local travelers every year. Cozumel is also safe, with low crime rates compared to other cities in Mexico.

The natives and local police keep the island safe for visitors. However, you should know the important safety tips even if Cozumel’s crime rate is low. These safety concerns will help you be even safer when visiting this beautiful island.

We’ll cover everything, from the most commonly committed crimes to areas to avoid and also a few other things that will make your trip safe.

Table of Contents

Is Cozumel Safe to Visit?

Countries have been issuing a travel advisory for tourists as Mexico climbs the alert lists for many countries. Tourists often get caught in unpleasant situations because of criminal activities and wrong decision-making. 

That said, Cozumel remains a safe destination for tourists in Mexico.

Mexico’s crime rate has the United States issue yearly travel advisory. Cozumel also falls into level 2 travel advisory because of its proximity to Quintana Roo, where crime can happen anywhere. High kidnapping and other crime rates can turn off many people planning a trip to Cozumel. The advisory asks visitors to be extra cautious.

Tourists visiting Cozumel shouldn’t feel threatened during their travel as the island has a significantly low crime rate. However, being alert can never be wrong. When you’re in Cozumel, don’t just drink any water from the tap or open sources, and be mindful of what and where you eat. Be cautious at the ferry terminal, too.

Local food is often tempting wherever you go, and you probably would want to try different food items. But remember, food poisoning is very common, and experiencing it during the trip can spoil all the fun. Never leave your personal belongings unattended, even if you’re taking a stroll nearby, they can be stolen.

As Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean sea, high tides and hurricanes can be possible; stay updated on the news and warnings.

As Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean sea, high tides, and hurricanes can be possible; stay updated on the news and warnings.

Some of the most committed or Level 2 crimes in Cozumel are:

• Systemic Corruption and bribery
• Vandalism and theft on properties
• Breaking and entering homes to steal

Anyone can fall victim to any of these crimes, so be conscious of potential danger when visiting nearby areas. Other than that, petty crimes are the only concerning factor.

Crime in Cozumel

Mexico sees crime throughout the country, and Cozumel is no exception. But it is amongst the cities with the lowest crime rate. Crime rates fluctuate yearly, and Cozumel’s crime rate witnessed a 50% drop between 2018 and 2019 .

Most of the crimes seen in Cozumel originate from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

Cancun and Playa Del Carmen are the reasons for Cozumel’s crimes, as travelers frequently visit these two areas. Although drugs aren’t commonly seen in Cozumel, some crimes are related to drugs.

In 2022 13  packs of Cocaine were seized by touring military officers on the Eastside of Cozumel beach. Pickpocketing is another common crime in crowded places like the port where tourists board ferries or any crowded place on the island.

The navy and police heavily patrol Cozumel to maintain tourists’ safety. As a result, it is safer than some of its neighboring cities, with a safety index of 85%. However, safeguard your belongings while riding the ferry to different destinations if you want to ensure further safety and avoid petty crimes.

Cartel Presence

Cozumel is less active in terms of drugs or cartels when compared to Cancun or Tulum. The authorities keep the island in check and avoid any drug-related activity to a minimum. In 2022, police managed to shot down one of the cartel member’s brother near Cozumel School.

Nevertheless, some drugs do manage to sneak past the authorities. It is nothing severe, though. If someone offers you drugs, always say no and try to get away.

Pickpocketing and Theft

The United States often issues travel advisories for Mexico. This advisory serves as a warning for people planning a trip to any of the cities in Mexico. When the advisories are released, many people become unwilling to visit Mexican cities for safety reasons.

Cozumel relies a lot on tourism for income. Many local businesses depend on foreigners coming to the island, so when tourism is affected on Cozumel, local businesses also feel the heat.

The falling income due to a low number of tourists can push many locals into committing petty crimes. The struggle to make ends meet can cause higher crime levels, making it unsafe for future tourists.

Unlike other cities in Mexico, Cozumel doesn’t witness many pickpocketing cases. However, there might be a handful of instances with tourists getting their pockets picked on and off the ferry or near the terminal.

The pickpocketing cases have been pretty low in the last couple of years, but that doesn’t mean you let your guard down. If you leave your belongings unattended, you might get them stolen, as thievery is another petty crime prevalent in Cozumel. Most of the theft cases happen on the property.

You can quickly become a victim of theft if you don’t take care of your things and keep them secure. Most tourists don’t have much to worry about as robbery takes place on the property or in the homes of locals.

Robberies, theft, and trespassing on personal property make for some of the highest crime statistics. Violent crimes like aggravated assaults are uncommon, and there haven’t been many cases in recent years.

Travelers coming to Cozumel don’t have to worry about property-related crimes. But you should be mindful of your surroundings and be extra careful.

Corruption and Scams

Mexico is infamous for rampaging corruption and scams at many levels. Just about anyone can fall victim to any of the crimes or scams.

Cozumel is no exception and usually is associated with the local community, natives, and local authorities: stopping vehicles for no reason and asking for bribes was very typical. You probably won’t see such a scenario in Cozumel these days, but it happens even if it happens rarely. 

Tourist scams are annoying petty crimes that exist on the island. Often local sellers overcharge tourists because they think visitors have lots of money. This scam includes rentals, gas, drinks, and more. Travelers have reported getting scammed for buying gas. ATM scams and you-broke-my-phone scams are also common.

Overcharging foreign tourists with taxi fares is among the many scams. So whenever you book a cab on the island, always insist on turning on the fare meter. If they say their meter is broken, get another taxi or negotiate the price. Overall avoid these scams:

Picture scam: Strangers, often local, will ask you to click a picture. This stranger will drop the phone when taking it back from you and blame you for the damage, asking for compensation.

ATM Helper: Someone will try to help you withdraw cash from the ATM. They will scan your card and see your PIN to siphon the money from your account later.

Bird Pooping: Throwing a white poop-looking substance at you. Someone will offer to help you clean up, and while you’re distracted, they’ll pick up your stuff.

Overcharged Cabs: Cab drivers not running with the meter and overcharging foreign passengers. 

Bar Friends/Hookups:   Girls or guys will appear interested in you. Will ask you to go to a nearby bar for drinks. That bar will charge you 5-6 times more, and if you don’t pay up, you’ll be taken by the bouncers to the ATM to withdraw and pay.

Areas to Avoid in Cozumel

While Cozumel is generally considered safe, there are certain areas and activities you should avoid when, especially when it is dark. For example, the ferry boarding area is a place to be extra cautious. This place attracts pickpockets.

The southern part of Cozumel island is safer and more popular. It is like a tourist center with good hotels, roads, and restaurants; many tourists hang out there.

The northern part of the island is underdeveloped. There aren’t proper public roads which can make exploring a bit difficult. It is not a bad place, but the chances of anything bad happening is higher here than in the southern part.

That said, if you’re wandering alone anywhere, that is probably the worst place to be. Being alone can invite unsocial and unpleasant elements. Anyway, the island becomes less active when the night falls, unlike many other cities. If you still fancy some nighttime fun, head to San Miguel or Centro District.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Cozumel is generally safe to visit, with low crime rates and nothing too dangerous except a few petty crime cases. However, there are still some things that you need to consider:

• Drink bottled water. Tap water isn’t safe and can cause sickness.
• When taking a cab, always confirm the price before you hop in.
• Make use of cash more to avoid credit/debit card cloning.
• The beach on the island’s east side is less safe than the southern side.
• Stay updated with news. A natural disaster like a hurricane, high tide, or tsunami can pose a risk.
• If you’re a U.S. citizen, sign up for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive news and safety alerts.
• Stay alert near the ferry terminal or any crowded place to avoid pickpockets.
• Don’t wear expensive and flashy items like gold chains, bracelets or watches.
• Don’t count cash or show cash in public.

Emergency contacts

• American Consulate: (998) 883-0272
• ISSTE State Hospital: 987 872 0359
• Cozumel Medical Center: 872-9400
• Bureau of Customs : 998 886 0073
• State Police : 987 872 0599
• Local Emergencies: 066
• Ambulance: 872-0639
• Fire department: 872-0800

Cultural Considerations When Visiting?

Just like any city in Mexico, Cozumel is also oozing with Mexican culture. It’s a warm and welcoming place with beautiful beaches, blue sea, and tons of culturally rich stuff.

Although many people wear short clothes, public display of affection is still something locals don’t consider progressive. Respect local culture.

Health Concerns

There aren’t any pandemic risks or major health concerns in Cozumel, yet keep a few things in mind.

• Avoid tap water.
• Don’t eat at unhygienic places.
• Don’t eat any raw meat unless you’re sure.
• Rinse fruits and veggies thoroughly before consuming.
• Don’t drink too many alcohol-induced drinks.

If feeling sick or unwell, visit the nearest hospital or clinic. You can call on the number provided above for further information or call an ambulance in case of medical emergencies.

The Bottom Line: Is Cozumel Safe to Visit?

Cozumel offers the perfect vacation spot to have fun with your friends, families or yourself. Its low crime rate keeps the tourists flowing and happy during their time. 

There aren’t any major crime or health risks apart from pickpocketing, tourist scams, food poisoning, etc. You can avoid petty crimes by exercising precautions like not going out in the dark, not roaming alone, and keeping your belongings tight and safe.

If you stay vigilant and don’t do anything unsafe, you will be absolutely fine making fun memories of Cozumel.

Is Cozumel safe for female travelers?

Cozumel is safe for female travelers. The crime rate on this island is very low and is generally considered safe for types of tourists.

Local police and navy are present and frequently patrol the area to keep crime at bay. However, just like any other travel destination, female travelers should exercise caution to avoid petty thefts and pickpocketing.

Is Cozumel safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Cozumel is safe for solo travelers. Even with level 2 advisory, the crime rate is significantly low, and solo travelers will find themselves at ease. Although, roaming alone in the northern part of the island or at night can invite some trouble, like getting overcharged at bars, pickpocketed, or stolen personal belongings.

What to avoid in Cozumel?

When in Cozumel, avoid drinking tap water, counting cash, wearing expensive items, taking cabs without a meter or fare negotiation, and wandering alone in less popular areas at night.

Are there Sharks in Cozumel?

Waters near Cozumel are amongst the clearest and warmest with a turquoise hue. You will see many different kinds of sharks enjoying their natural habitat. Diving to see sharks and te second biggest coral reef system is why Cozumel is so popular. Don’t worry, sharks usually don’t harm you until you get super close.

Gerry Arndte

Gerry is a traveller, and philosopher . He loves to travel and write about the places he travels. He frequent contributes his exploits in many travel websites.

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Cozumel Safety Guide

• November 6, 2023
• Zach Konstie

Is Cozumel Safe? An Honest Guide

Table of contents.

Are you planning a visit to Mexico and wondering about the safety of Cozumel ? You’re not alone! Many people hear negative things about Mexico and naturally worry about their well-being.

But fear not! I can confidently assure you that Cozumel is a haven of safety. Those stories in the media? They’re often exaggerated and sensationalized.

Now, let’s dive into the details and put your mind at ease. Once we do, you’ll be ready to embark on an unforgettable vacation experience!

Is Cozumel Safe?

Absolutely! Cozumel is not just safe, it’s an oasis of tranquility. With its remarkably low crime rate, it outshines many cities in Latin America and even North America. The island boasts a strong police presence and a tight-knit community that cares for both locals and tourists alike. Now, let’s delve deeper into what makes Cozumel an exceptionally safe haven. The answer? A resounding yes!

How Safe is Cozumel for Tourists?​

Cozumel, Mexico is widely regarded as a safe haven for tourists, offering tranquility and peace of mind. With a relatively low crime rate compared to other parts of Mexico, violent incidents against visitors are rare.

According to the latest Crime Index 2023 Report by  Numbeo , Cozumel boasts a commendably low crime index of 34.38, reflecting the city’s commitment to safety. Factors such as crime levels, daytime and nighttime safety, and the perception of residents and visitors contribute to this positive rating.

🇲🇽 Mexico Travel Resources We Use:

• ✈️ Cheapest flights to Mexico on Kayak or Expedia
• 🏥 Insure your trip with   Safety Wing or Travel Insurance Master
• 🚗 Rent a car in Mexico with Discover Cars
• 📷 Book your tours and trips with Viator or GetYourGuide
• ☀️ Pack a good Sunscreen: we love Sun Bum
• 🧳 Pack a quick dry towel , dry bag , and waterproof phone case
• 📱 Get a Mexico SIM Card from Amazon to get cheap internet data

It is important to note that crime rates can fluctuate depending on the time of day and specific locations. Busy tourist areas, like downtown Cozumel, can attract pickpockets and petty criminals. However, the Mexican government and local police have implemented robust measures to ensure the well-being of tourists. Police presence is strong, and regular patrols are conducted in tourist hotspots.

Cozumel also serves as a popular cruise ship destination, with stringent monitoring and security personnel safeguarding passengers’ safety as they embark and disembark.

Compared to other parts of Mexico, Cozumel exhibits significantly lower rates of violent crimes and drug-related incidents. Drug cartel activity and violence are virtually non-existent on the island.

Cozumel’s safety is largely attributed to the dedicated police officers who diligently protect residents and visitors alike.

The most frequently reported crimes on the island are incidents of petty theft, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from parked cars. To steer clear of these minor inconveniences, it is crucial to take basic precautions.

Here are some travel tips to ensure your safety in Cozumel:

• Trust your instincts:  Remain vigilant and avoid venturing alone into isolated or unfamiliar areas.
• Secure your valuables:  Safeguard your passport, cash, and credit cards by storing them in a secure place, such as a hotel safe.
• Stick to well-lit areas:  If you find yourself out after dark, prioritize well-lit locations and stay in groups.
• Say no to drugs:  Engaging in drug-related activities can have severe consequences under Mexican law, so it is best to steer clear of such involvement.
• Opt for licensed taxis:  Utilize licensed taxis with official markings, and avoid unmarked vehicles.

By following these guidelines, you can fully enjoy the wonders of Cozumel while ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

​Food and Water Safety

When visiting the beautiful island of Cozumel, ensuring the safety of your food and water is crucial. Let’s dive into what you need to know for a safe and enjoyable trip! Natural Disasters

While the tap water in Cozumel is not suitable for drinking due to untreated bacteria and contaminants, worry not! All hotels and restaurants on the island provide purified water, perfect for quenching your thirst and cooking up a storm. And yes, that margarita you’ve been eyeing? It’s made with purified water too!

Now, let’s talk about the delightful cuisine that Cozumel is famous for. To steer clear of any unwanted foodborne illnesses, it’s wise to choose bustling restaurants with a stellar reputation for hygiene and food safety. Don’t forget to check those reviews before dining to make sure you’re in good hands.

Rest assured, food safety is a top priority for Cozumel’s restaurants, as their reputation relies on the satisfaction of tourists like you. Word of food poisoning spreads like wildfire, prompting them to be extra cautious.

Now, here’s a personal tip: I’ve savored scrumptious street food in Cozumel without any issues. Some of the best food I’ve had in Mexico, in fact! Just use your common sense, ensuring that the food preparer maintains cleanliness and follows basic safety precautions such as proper food temperature.

With these insights, you’re all set to relish the flavors of Cozumel while keeping your trip safe and memorable. Bon appétit!

Natural Disasters

When it comes to natural disasters, Cozumel is not immune to the wrath of hurricanes and tropical storms. While major hurricanes are infrequent in this area, it’s important to be prepared. 

Hurricane season in Cozumel spans from June to November, with the peak months being August, September, and October. During this time, visitors should be aware of the potential risks associated with tropical storms and hurricanes.

The season brings a higher risk of severe weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rain, and high winds. These conditions can lead to flooding, power outages, and flight cancellations. In extreme cases, hurricanes can cause significant damage to buildings, infrastructure, and the environment.

If you’re planning to visit Cozumel during hurricane season, staying informed about weather conditions and heeding warnings from local authorities is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure your safety:

• Monitor weather updates:  Stay vigilant and keep an eye on weather forecasts, especially regarding any tropical storms or hurricanes that may be heading towards the island.
• Follow local advice:  Listen to the advice given by local authorities and be prepared to follow evacuation orders if necessary.
• Seek shelter indoors:  When there is a tropical storm or hurricane warning in place, it’s best to stay indoors and avoid venturing outside until it is safe to do so.

Remember, it’s always wise to invest in travel insurance, particularly when traveling during hurricane season. The minimal extra cost can potentially be a lifesaver. Stay safe and enjoy your time on the island!

Register with the United States State Department

Are you a U.S. citizen planning a trip to Mexico? It’s highly recommended to register your trip with the U.S. Department of State. This valuable service provides essential information and assistance to U.S. citizens traveling abroad, ensuring your peace of mind. Plus, you’ll be promptly notified if there are any travel advisories for your destination. Stay informed, stay safe! 🌍✈️

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is your go-to service offered by the U.S. Department of State. It allows you to easily register your trips abroad, providing you with crucial updates on safety and security conditions at your destination. Should an emergency arise, you can rely on the assistance of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, who will reach out using the contact information provided during your STEP registration.

Don’t miss out on the benefits of registering with STEP:

• Stay updated on safety and security: Receive alerts on weather events, political unrest, or other situations that may impact your trip.
• Emergency assistance: In case of a natural disaster or civil unrest, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate will be able to reach you and provide the necessary support.
• Travel with peace of mind: Take proactive steps to ensure your safety and security while traveling abroad.

Registering with STEP is quick and easy. Simply visit the STEP website at  step.state.gov  and provide some basic information about yourself, your trip, and your contact details. Don’t wait until the last minute, register as soon as possible to make the most of this valuable service. Bon voyage! ✈️

Visiting Cozumel

Cozumel is known for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere , making it a popular destination for travelers of all ages.

Getting to Cozumel

Cozumel, a captivating destination, awaits you with convenient air and sea access. Cozumel International Airport welcomes numerous daily flights, including direct routes from major U.S. cities.

For a budget-friendly option, many travelers prefer to fly into Cancun and venture to Cozumel . Although it’s about a two-hour journey (or longer during heavy traffic), weigh the cost against the time saved.

Alternatively, embark on a delightful adventure by taking the ferry from Playa del Carmen . Explorers of the mesmerizing Riviera Maya region often opt for a day trip to Cozumel for its exceptional scuba diving experiences. 

About Cozumel

Cozumel, an enchanting island off the coast of Mexico in the state of Quintana Roo, beckons with its captivating allure. At its heart lies San Miguel de Cozumel, a vibrant town pulsating with life. Serving as a bustling hub of commercial, cultural, and administrative activities, it is the beating heart of the island.

Delve into the rich tapestry of Cozumel’s history, woven by the ancient Mayan civilization. This sacred site of worship and trade resonates with echoes of the past. As time unfurled, the Spanish arrived, turning Cozumel into a bustling port of pearl trade and coveted treasures.

Today, Cozumel harmoniously blends modernity with tradition, exuding the captivating fusion of Mexican and Caribbean cultures. Embark on a journey through time as you explore the town’s historic landmarks, including the Museo de la Isla de Cozumel and Parroquia Santa Cruz.

For the avid shopper, Cozumel unfolds as a paradise, offering a plethora of shops, boutiques, and bustling marketplaces. Local crafts, souvenirs, and high-end designer brands are waiting to be discovered. Venture into the Punta Langosta Mall, situated opposite one of the cruise terminals, where over 40 stores, restaurants, and bars beckon with their alluring offerings.

Indulgence knows no bounds in Cozumel’s culinary realm. With a diverse and tantalizing array of dining options, every palate and budget finds satisfaction. From savoring traditional Mexican cuisine to relishing fresh seafood and exploring international flavors, Cozumel’s restaurants and cafes cater to every taste.

Cozumel, a world of wonder and delight, invites you to immerse yourself in its captivating embrace.

Is Cozumel Worth Visiting?

I must confess, I may be a little biased since I arrived in Cozumel with a plan to stay for just two months, yet here I am, still captivated and unwilling to bid this place adieu. But let me tell you, Cozumel is more than just worth visiting—it’s an absolute paradise waiting to be explored. Here’s why you won’t be able to resist its allure: Where to Stay in Cozumel

• Scuba Diving and Snorkeling:  Brace yourself for an underwater adventure like no other. Cozumel is hailed as one of the world’s premier scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. Picture this: an island surrounded by the magnificent Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest coral reef system on the planet. Prepare to be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of marine life and vibrant coral formations that lie beneath the surface.
• Beaches:  Get ready to sink your toes into powdery white sand that’s as soft as a dream. Cozumel boasts beaches so pristine and inviting, you’ll find it impossible to resist the call of relaxation, sunbathing, and basking in the warm embrace of the Caribbean sun. Oh, and did I mention the incredible snorkeling spots right off the shore? It’s like having an underwater wonderland right at your fingertips.
• Natural Beauty:  Cozumel is a treasure trove of natural wonders, extending far beyond its stunning beaches. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of ecological parks and reserves that will leave you in awe. Take, for instance, the Punta Sur Ecological Park, home to enchanting mangroves, serene lagoons, and a lighthouse that offers panoramic views that will steal your breath away. And let’s not forget about the mesmerizing Chankanaab National Park, where a vibrant array of flora and fauna awaits your exploration.
• Mayan Ruins:  Prepare to step back in time and uncover the fascinating history of the Mayan civilization. Cozumel, with its rich cultural heritage, is in close proximity to several impressive Mayan ruins. Discover the captivating ruins of San Gervasio, right here on the island. Or embark on a day trip to the mainland and immerse yourself in the allure of the world-famous Tulum archaeological site, perched on a cliff overlooking the majestic Caribbean Sea. And if you’re up for an adventure, the ancient city of Coba and the awe-inspiring ruins of Chichen Itza are within your grasp.

• Water Activities:  Calling all water enthusiasts! Cozumel offers an array of thrilling water activities that will get your heart racing and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and deep-sea fishing are just a few of the exhilarating options at your disposal. And why not embark on a boat tour around the island, where you can revel in the coastal beauty, uncover hidden coves, and create unforgettable moments.
• Cruise Ship Destination:  Brace yourself for a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. As a popular port of call for cruise ships, Cozumel boasts a bustling tourist infrastructure that will cater to your every need. From charming shops to delectable restaurants and an abundance of entertainment options, the main town of San Miguel offers a lively fusion of local culture and tourist amenities. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of this captivating destination.

In summary, Cozumel is a haven that effortlessly blends natural beauty, adventure, history, and relaxation, creating the perfect destination for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re an avid explorer, a history aficionado, or simply seeking solace on a stunning beach, Cozumel promises an experience like no other. So, what are you waiting for? Let the allure of Cozumel sweep you off your feet and embark on a journey of a lifetime.

Where to Stay in Cozumel

Cozumel offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Check out some of the best places to stay in Cozumel:

• San Miguel:  San Miguel is the main town on the island and the hub of tourist activity. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. San Miguel also offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts .
• Cozumel Hotel Zone:  The Cozumel Hotel Zone is a strip of hotels and resorts located on the island’s western coast. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the beach and enjoy water sports activities. You’ll find hotels in the area for every budget, including great family-friendly resorts.
• Playa Palancar:  Playa Palancar is a secluded beach located on the southern end of the island. It’s a great place to stay if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of San Miguel and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing vacation. There are several small hotels and guesthouses in the area.
• Northern Hotel Zone:  The Northern Hotel Zone is located on the island’s northern coast and offers a quieter and more secluded experience compared to the Cozumel Hotel Zone. The hotels in the area range from budget-friendly to luxury resorts.
• Private Vacation Rentals:  Cozumel has a wide range of private vacation rentals available, from apartments and condos to villas and beach houses. This option can be a great choice for families or groups who want more space and privacy. Check out VRBO or Booking.com for great options.

Whether you want to be close to the beach or in the heart of the action, there’s a place for you in Cozumel. Enjoy your stay!

Things to Do in Cozumel

Cozumel, a tropical paradise, offers an abundance of exciting activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top experiences that will make your trip unforgettable:

🐠  Snorkeling and Scuba Diving:  Immerse yourself in Cozumel’s mesmerizing coral reefs, teeming with vibrant marine life. Get up close and personal with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures. Check out this guide to the best snorkeling spots in Cozumel!

⛰️  Visit Mayan Ruins:  Step into the ancient world as you explore the captivating Mayan ruins of San Gervasio and El Cedral. Uncover the island’s rich cultural heritage and immerse yourself in its fascinating history.

🏖️  Beaches:  Indulge in the sheer beauty of Cozumel’s pristine beaches. Sink your toes into the soft, powdery sand, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, and bask in the glorious sunshine. Treat yourself to the ultimate beach experience at one of the fabulous full-service beach clubs!

🌊  Water Sports:  Calling all adrenaline seekers! Cozumel is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Dive into thrilling activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and parasailing. Get ready for an exhilarating adventure!

🌴  Visit Chankanaab National Park:  Embark on a journey through the breathtaking Chankanaab National Park, nestled along the southwest coast. Explore lush botanical gardens, swim with majestic dolphins, or simply unwind on the tranquil beaches. Nature lovers, this is paradise!

🏛️  Cozumel Museum:  Immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant history and culture at the Cozumel Museum. Located in the heart of San Miguel, this captivating museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.

🍹  Tequila Tasting:  Discover the spirit of Mexico by embarking on a tantalizing tequila-tasting tour. Learn about the different varieties of tequila and the intricate process behind its creation. Cheers to an unforgettable experience!

🐊  Visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park:  Venture to the southern tip of the island and explore the wonders of Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. Encounter crocodiles and turtles in their natural habitat, climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the island, and immerse yourself in the park’s incredible wildlife.

Cozumel beckons with its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and thrilling water sports. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an adventure seeker, Cozumel guarantees an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving for more! 🏝️🌞

Theft and Pickpocketing

Mexico’s proximity to the United States can have a significant impact when the US Government issues higher travel warnings. With travel restrictions in place, fewer tourists are likely to visit Mexico, which can be detrimental to areas like Cozumel. This enchanting island heavily relies on tourism as a vital source of income, and many local businesses depend on foreign visitors.

Unfortunately, decreased tourism can lead to increased crime rates. When the number of tourists dwindles, locals may face hardships, making them more vulnerable to resorting to illegal activities. While Cozumel experiences relatively lower instances of pickpocketing compared to places like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Mexico City, it’s still important to exercise caution, especially near the ferry terminal where such incidents are more likely to occur.

The ferry terminal serves as the primary gateway to and from the island, and when thousands of people pass through simultaneously, the chances of pickpocketing rise. Although reports of pickpocketing have been relatively low in recent years, it’s always wise to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Additionally, theft has been on the rise, particularly involving property crimes.

In 2022, a cruise line dropped off tourists in Cozumel for island activities, but unfortunately, some of them left their belongings unattended on the bus, resulting in a theft of around $10,000. While no violence was involved, this incident serves as a reminder to take good care of your belongings and keep them secure. Home robberies, property trespassing, and stealing unattended items are among the top crime statistics in the area.

As a tourist, you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of theft by taking proper precautions and securing your belongings. Most tourists have little to worry about, as robberies primarily occur on local properties and homes.

By staying alert and taking necessary measures, you can fully enjoy the beauty and vibrancy of Cozumel while ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

Corruption, Bribery, and Scams

Corruption, bribery, and scams are unfortunately prevalent in many tourist destinations, including Cozumel. These crimes, which can happen to anyone, anywhere, are the easiest to fall victim to. Whether it’s locals engaging in corrupt practices or businesses overcharging tourists, it’s important to be aware of these issues and take precautions.Avoiding Bad Areas

In the past decade, there has been an increase in these problems, with bribes often involving police officers stopping vehicles. While such incidents are now rare in Cozumel, it’s wise to remain vigilant as you never know when they might resurface.

Scams are another significant concern for tourists visiting Cozumel. Locals may try to charge inflated prices, assuming that vacationers have deep pockets. Be cautious of various scams, such as the infamous camera-drop scam or the ATM assistance scam, where scammers try to steal your debit card information.

When taking a taxi on the island, always insist on the meter being turned on to avoid being overcharged. Additionally, researching activities and prices ahead of time can help you avoid falling victim to other potential scams.

While it’s essential to be aware of these issues, don’t let them overshadow the beauty and enjoyment that Cozumel has to offer. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can have a safe and memorable visit to this stunning destination.

Avoiding Bad Areas

Cozumel, a captivating island, offers a generally safe experience for visitors. However, once darkness falls, it’s wise to be mindful of specific areas and activities. The ferry terminal, serving as the island’s entry point, demands extra caution.Things to Consider

As mentioned earlier, pickpocketing and scams tend to lurk in this paradise. The southern part of Cozumel, brimming with roads, restaurants, and resorts, is a popular and tourist-friendly haven. In contrast, the northern region exudes a rural and remote charm. Navigating through its uncharted territory can prove challenging. Exercise caution if you find yourself alone in any part of the island.

Traveling alone can render one vulnerable to unfortunate circumstances. Come evening, Cozumel’s vibrant energy simmers down as locals and tourists retreat to their resorts, ready to recharge for another day of adventure. The Centro district or San Miguel Area of Cozumel becomes the sole hub for nighttime activities.

Beyond this central area, darkness cloaks the island until the break of dawn, with limited lighting to guide your way. Rest assured, visiting Cozumel shouldn’t pose much cause for concern.

So, immerse yourself in the wonders of Cozumel, but remember to stay vigilant and make the most of your daytime explorations!

Things to Consider

Visiting Cozumel? No need to worry! While crime is low, it’s always good to keep a few things in mind when exploring this island paradise. Brace yourself for the unexpected, as natural disasters can sometimes interrupt travel plans. And remember, don’t even think about drinking the tap water! Also, be cautious when hitting the beaches on the east side of the island. Oh, and here’s a tip: always confirm the taxi fare upfront to avoid any surprises. Lastly, consider using cash to protect your bank cards from potential mischief-makers. Stay safe and enjoy your time in Cozumel!

Frequently Asked Questions: Safety in Cozumel

Is cozumel safe for tourists.

Indeed, Cozumel is a haven for tourists seeking tranquility. The island boasts a commendably low crime rate, as local authorities go above and beyond to safeguard the well-being of visitors.

Are there any parts of Cozumel to avoid as a tourist?

Cozumel, a paradise for tourists, has no areas to avoid. Nevertheless, it’s wise to exercise caution and stay alert to your surroundings, particularly when strolling alone or after dusk. Your safety is our priority!

Is swimming safe in Cozumel’s waters?

Absolutely! Dive into the pristine waters surrounding Cozumel and experience the enchantment firsthand. This captivating island is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Explore the underwater wonders and embrace the thrill of adventure!

Any dangerous animals on the island?

No dangerous animals on the island. Local authorities ensure safety by controlling stray dog population.

What to do if feeling unsafe in Cozumel?

If you ever find yourself feeling unsafe in Cozumel, don’t hesitate to reach out to the local authorities immediately. Just dial 911 and the police, along with other emergency services, will be there for you, ready to assist 24/7. Your safety and well-being are their top priority!

Are there health risks when traveling to Cozumel?

Traveling to Cozumel poses no significant health risks. However, it’s always wise to take precautions, like slathering on sunscreen and using insect repellent, to steer clear of sunburns and pesky mosquito bites. Soak up the sun and enjoy your journey!

Are there natural disaster risks in Cozumel?

Cozumel, a tropical paradise, lies in an area occasionally swept by the mighty force of hurricanes. But fear not! The vigilant local authorities have implemented robust measures to safeguard the well-being of both residents and visitors in the face of these natural phenomena.

Is the water in Cozumel safe to drink?

Drinking tap water in Cozumel? Not the best idea. It’s safer to quench your thirst with bottled water or water that’s been filtered and purified. Stay refreshed and worry-free!

How can I stay safe in Cozumel?

To ensure your safety while exploring Cozumel, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and be mindful of your surroundings. Keep a low profile by avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and exercise caution when interacting with strangers. Embracing the local laws and customs is not only respectful but also adds to the enriching experience of your journey. Stay informed about any safety advisories issued by the local authorities to make the most of your adventure!

Is Cozumel safe for cruise passengers?

Cozumel is an oasis of safety for cruise passengers . With well-guarded ports and stringent security measures, your peace of mind is our top priority. The Cozumel police are dedicated to ensuring your safety, leaving no room for compromise.

Is eating in Cozumel safe?

Absolutely! Indulging in Cozumel’s culinary delights is not only safe but also a delightful experience. Restaurants go above and beyond to ensure that food is prepared with utmost care, guaranteeing a delectable and worry-free dining experience.

Is Cozumel safer than Cancun?

Looking for a safe getaway? Both Cozumel and Cancun are great choices, but Cozumel takes the prize for being a bit safer. With lower instances of crime, including petty theft, Cozumel ensures a worry-free vacation.

Bottom Line: Is Cozumel Safe?

Cozumel, a captivating destination, beckons with its blend of history, culture, shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures. Immerse yourself in the pristine white sand beaches, delve into the town’s rich heritage, or embark on thrilling scuba diving and snorkeling escapades. In my experience, Cozumel is one of the safest havens in Mexico, surpassing many cities in the United States. Having called Cozumel home since 2022, I’ve never felt anything but secure, even during nighttime strolls. Don’t miss out on experiencing the finest Mexico has to offer – Cozumel awaits!

Traveling to 🇲🇽 Mexico soon?

I recommend these travel resources for Mexico that I personally use:

🏨 Hotels : I have found that Expedia and Booking.com consistently have the best deals on hotels and resorts in Mexico. If you prefer to stay at a vacation rental, check VRBO that is usually cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : To find the best flight deals to Mexico, I always use Kayak . Remember to subscribe to their price alerts for the travel dates you want. Another great alternative for flight deals is Expedia .

🚗 Rental Cars : I always use and highly recommend Discover Cars because it allows me to compare several car rental companies and view ratings on various factors such as overall value, pick-up procedure, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time taken.

🚙 Cancun   Airport Transportation : For the fastest and easiest way to travel, I suggest arranging a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation . Honestly, no better way to travel from the airport to your hotel or resort.

🤿 Tours & Activities: For tours and activities in Mexico, I highly recommend using either Viator or GetYourGuide . These websites offer a full refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the start of the tour, and they also provide excellent customer service in case of any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: I always suggest purchasing travel insurance as a precaution before traveling, especially after a recent accident in a taxi in Mexico. For short trips, I recommend Travel Insurance Master , whereas for digital nomads, Safety Wing is a better option.

📷 Best Camera for your trip: I always carry with me a GoPro , It’s light, compact, takes great video and pictures, and most importantly, it’s waterproof ! You just can’t go wrong with one. If you are interested in higher quality video and photography, I always carry with me on my trips and highly recommend the Sony A7IV  which I think is the best travel DSLR Camera out there.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest  Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.

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Is Cozumel Safe? (2023 Safety Guide)

Is Cozumel safe? Learn more about how you can avoid scams and petty crime in Cozumel and have the safest, most memorable trip ever.

The biodiversity and stunning beaches of Cozumel attract millions of tourists and cruise passengers to this island each year. It is located just an hour away from Cancun, one of the most iconic destinations in all of México.

If you are not a big fan of the crowds in Cancun but you still want to explore the beauty of the Caribbean and the Riviera Maya, Cozumel is always a great option.

If you’re looking for the safest destination in Mexico, you might want to consider visiting Mérida .

Cozumel offers a wide variety of fun activities and tours including scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins and exploration of ancient ruins.

This Cozumel safety guide is designed to help you better understand the current situation in Cozumel and how you can make your trip fun, safe and one that you’ll never forget.

Table of Contents

Is it safe to go to cozumel in 2023, is cancun safer than cozumel, is it safe to travel from cancun to cozumel, are taxis safe in cozumel, safety tips for cozumel, common scams and crimes to avoid in cozumel, cozumel travel video.

Yes, Cozumel is very safe and happens to be one of the safer destinations in all of Mexico despite the not so great reputation that its neighbor Cancun has garnered over the course of the last few years due to narco related crime and violence.

While there is a reasonable police presence on the island, Navy soldiers and the Marine Corps have been sent to the area in order to calm the nerves of visitors who were a little skeptical on traveling to Cozumel.

There have been no major crime or gang-related incidents in Cozumel, and the crime rate in general is very low. Cozumel is safe to travel during all hours of the day, and is even considered to be very safe for females traveling alone. 

There are a few places tourists need to stay away from, but the neighborhoods and people are friendly and will guide you towards safety in case a problematic situation arises.

Both Cancun and Cozumel are relatively safe tourist destinations but Cozumel is the safer option. With the crime rate in Cozumel being in the low 30s, and that of Cancun being in the 60s, Cozumel is much safer statistically speaking.

There are no major criminal activities as there are no drug-cartel or gang-related issues on this island. Tourists love the area, so the locals are very welcoming.

At the end of the day when it comes to deciding on Cancun vs Cozumel, Cozumel is a safer, quieter and more laid back destination as a whole.

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel from Cancun to Cozumel. The Cozumel Airport is located approximately 86 km from the Cancun Airport and offers safe, reliable and professional transportation from the Cozumel International Airport to all destinations on the island.

Most visitors planning to visit Cozumel end up booking transportation from Cancun to Cozumel which involves a transfer from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen and then a ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. The whole process takes approximately 2 hours or so.

All taxis in Cozumel are registered, and completely safe. For the most part, the taxistas are friendly and bilingual, although you must exercise caution as there are always bad apples that can ruin your vacation if you’re not careful.

The only scam you may face from taxi drivers is that they overcharge you for rides. This can be avoided if you ask or request a specific price before hopping in the taxi.

• Stay away from contaminated water such as the sources of dirty water, to avoid any illnesses. Use mosquito repellents, drink bottled water and eat properly cooked food to avoid food illnesses. 
• Avoid touching wild animals in Cozumel as they can be carriers of diseases. You may also find dangerous sea animals while swimming or snorkeling, so try to stay in groups if you’re planning on spending time in the sea.
• Find a partner for snorkeling or scuba diving, as it is very easy to get lost underwater, if you’re not entirely familiar with the area.
• You need to be aware of pickpockets and purse-snatchers, especially in crowded areas such as beaches. If you do become a victim of such petty crimes, it’s recommended to report the crime to the tourist police in Cozumel by calling the following number: +52 987 872 0092
• Avoid dark streets or secluded alleyways. Stay in the well-lit, and vibrant areas of the Island to stay safe from any theft or robbery. Also, try not to walk alone during the night, get a taxi instead.
• The most common scam is when the timeshare presenters try to force you into investing in property at major resorts on the island. This is very rarely a good investment and almost always a scam. People have been burned on timeshares for more than 30+ years. Avoid timeshares at all costs and spend your time enjoying everything that Cozumel has to offer. If you are considering an investment into a timeshare in Cozumel, we recommend reading this first .
• A picture scam is also common in Cozumel. Random photographers are roaming around and they approach all the tourists and offer to take their pictures. They charge an insanely high price for these pictures, so just say no whenever someone offers to take your picture.
• The overcharging taxi fraud is another common scam in Cozumel. The best way to avoid this is to visit the TripAdvisor forums or Cozumel Facebook Groups and ask for taxi recommendations. Usually there will be educated expats who have great taxi recommendations in just about any destination.
• Due to a shortage of legitimate bank ATMs, some tourists also fall prey to ATM helper scam. These scammers offer to help you withdraw money from their ATM machine without having to pay any fees. Say no to these people to avoid any banking related scams.

If you keep your wits about you, you’ll have a fun and safe trip in Cozumel. With possibly the lowest crime rates in Mexico, this picturesque region will help you form memories of a lifetime.

Spiritual seekers and adventurous travelers might also enjoy: San Jose del Pacifico: The Most Magical Pueblito in Oaxaca .

You might also enjoy: Tulum vs Chichen Itza: Things You Need to Know Before You Visit

Jay Patton is a serial traveler and adventure seeker, based in Portland, Oregon. He enjoys hiking, running, and traveling the world, and is always on the lookout for the next big adventure.

San Jose del Pacifico: The Most Magical Pueblito in Oaxaca, México

Nature photography: what benefits can you reap.

Exploring Cozumel: Current Travel Restrictions And Guidelines For Visiting Mexico's Tropical Paradise

• Last updated Aug 07, 2023
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category United States

Are you ready to embark on a tropical adventure to Cozumel, Mexico? Before you pack your bags and head off to this beautiful island, it’s important to be aware of any travel restrictions that may be in place. As the global pandemic continues, many countries, including Mexico, have implemented certain guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety of both tourists and locals. So, let’s dive in and explore the current travel restrictions to Cozumel, Mexico, so you can plan your trip accordingly!

What You'll Learn

Are there currently any travel restrictions in place for visiting cozumel, mexico, what are the specific requirements or restrictions for entering cozumel, mexico, such as covid-19 testing or proof of vaccination, are there any specific travel advisories or warnings for cozumel, mexico, related to safety or security concerns, are there any limitations on the activities or attractions that tourists can visit in cozumel due to current travel restrictions, are there any quarantine requirements for travelers upon arrival in cozumel, mexico, or when returning to their home country after visiting.

Cozumel, Mexico is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there are currently travel restrictions in place for visiting Cozumel.

The Mexican government, in coordination with health authorities, has implemented strict measures to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the health and safety of both locals and tourists. These measures include travel restrictions, health screening procedures, and mandatory quarantines for certain individuals.

As of [current date], Cozumel is open to international tourism, but there are specific entry requirements and restrictions that visitors must be aware of. All travelers arriving in Cozumel must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. This test can be a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test or an antigen test. Additionally, travelers may be subject to health screening measures upon arrival, such as temperature checks and questionnaires.

It is also important to note that travel restrictions may vary depending on the country of origin. Some countries may have additional requirements, such as mandatory quarantine periods or proof of travel insurance that covers COVID-19 related expenses. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of Mexico in your home country for the latest and most accurate information regarding travel restrictions and entry requirements.

Once in Cozumel, visitors are expected to follow local health and safety protocols. This includes wearing face masks in public places, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing hands or using hand sanitizers. These measures are in place to protect not only tourists but also the local population.

Tourist attractions and businesses in Cozumel have also implemented their own safety protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. These measures may include reduced capacity, enhanced cleaning and sanitization procedures, and restrictions on certain activities or amenities. It is recommended to check with the specific attraction or business for any additional guidelines or restrictions that may be in place.

As the situation regarding COVID-19 is constantly evolving, it is important to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by health authorities and the Mexican government. It is also advisable to have a flexible travel plan in case of any unexpected changes or restrictions.

Cozumel is a beautiful destination with much to offer, and while travel restrictions and safety measures are in place, visiting can still be a possibility. By following the necessary precautions and staying informed, tourists can enjoy the beauty of Cozumel while ensuring the health and safety of themselves and others.

The Latest Abaco Travel Restrictions You Need to Know About

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To enter Cozumel, Mexico, there are specific requirements and restrictions in place, especially due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These requirements aim to protect both tourists and locals and ensure the safety of all individuals visiting the island. If you are planning a trip to Cozumel, it is essential to be aware of the specific guidelines to have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

COVID-19 Testing Requirements:

As of now, visitors do not necessarily need to present negative COVID-19 test results upon arrival in Cozumel. However, it is advisable to check the latest travel guidelines issued by the Mexican government or consult with your airline or travel agent before your trip, as requirements can change with time.

Proof of Vaccination:

Currently, there is no requirement for tourists to show proof of vaccination to enter Cozumel. However, carrying your vaccination card or any other relevant documentation might be helpful, especially in case you need to provide it for any unforeseen circumstances.

Health Declaration Form:

To enter Mexico, including Cozumel, all travelers are required to fill out a health declaration form. This form will ask for personal information, travel details, and require you to confirm that you do not have any COVID-19 symptoms. This form can be filled out electronically before arriving in Mexico or upon arrival at the airport.

Health and Safety Measures:

While in Cozumel, it is crucial to follow all health and safety guidelines provided by the local authorities. These guidelines may include wearing face masks in public areas, practicing social distancing, and frequent hand sanitization. It is also advisable to monitor your health closely during your stay and seek medical assistance if you develop any COVID-19 symptoms.

It's important to note that the situation surrounding COVID-19 is constantly evolving, and travel requirements can change rapidly. Therefore, it is highly recommended to stay updated with the latest information from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Before your trip to Cozumel, it would be wise to check with your airline or travel agent for any specific requirements they have in place. Additionally, it's essential to stay informed about the entry requirements in Cozumel through official government channels or the Mexican embassy or consulate in your home country.

By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Cozumel, Mexico. Remember to prioritize your health and the health of others by adhering to all necessary precautions throughout your journey.

Bahrain Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know Before You Plan Your Trip

If you're planning a trip to Cozumel, Mexico, it's important to be aware of any travel advisories or warnings related to safety and security concerns. While Cozumel is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, it's always a good idea to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

As of now, there are no specific travel advisories or warnings for Cozumel, Mexico. However, it's important to keep in mind that the situation can change at any time. It's always a good idea to check the latest updates from your government's travel advisory website before you travel.

That being said, here are a few general safety tips to keep in mind while visiting Cozumel:

• Be cautious of your surroundings: Like any tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in less crowded areas.
• Use authorized taxis: When using taxis, make sure to use authorized ones from designated taxi stands or request them through a reputable service. Avoid flagging down taxis on the street, as it's always safer to use official services.
• Secure your valuables: Keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Avoid flashing expensive items like jewelry, cameras, or smartphones in crowded areas as it may attract unwanted attention.
• Avoid isolated areas: Stick to well-populated and tourist-friendly areas. Avoid venturing into isolated areas, especially at night.
• Research and plan your activities: Before participating in any activities or tours, make sure to research and choose reputable providers. This will help ensure your safety and minimize the risk of scams or unsafe conditions.
• Follow local laws and customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws, customs, and traditions. Respect the local culture and be mindful of any regulations or customs in place.
• Stay informed: Stay updated on any local news or developments that may affect your safety. This can include checking for any sudden weather changes, demonstrations, or other safety concerns.

Cozumel is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, lively marine life, and vibrant culture. By taking some basic precautions and staying informed, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Cozumel, Mexico.

Exploring the Current Abraka Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

As travel restrictions continue to impact the tourism industry, many potential tourists are wondering about the limitations on activities and attractions in popular destinations such as Cozumel. Cozumel, a beautiful island located off the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.

Due to current travel restrictions, there are some limitations on the activities and attractions that tourists can visit in Cozumel. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both tourists and locals, and to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

One of the main restrictions in place is the limit on the number of tourists allowed to visit certain attractions or participate in specific activities. For example, popular tourist sites such as the Mayan ruins of San Gervasio or the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park may have reduced capacity to maintain social distancing and limit the risk of crowded spaces. This means that tourists may need to make reservations in advance or be prepared for longer wait times.

Additionally, some attractions or activities may be temporarily closed or have limited hours of operation. This is especially true for indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, or entertainment venues. Prior to traveling to Cozumel, it is important to check the status and availability of specific attractions to avoid disappointment.

Furthermore, tourists may also face restrictions when it comes to certain water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming with dolphins. These activities, which are popular in Cozumel due to the island's vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, may have specific guidelines and protocols in place to ensure the safety of the participants. For example, tour groups may be smaller to allow for social distancing, equipment may be thoroughly disinfected, and face masks may be required when not in the water.

It is also worth noting that travel restrictions and limitations can vary depending on the country of origin. Different countries may have different entry requirements, testing protocols, quarantine regulations, or even travel bans in place. It is important for tourists to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines before planning a trip to Cozumel.

Although there are limitations on the activities and attractions that tourists can visit in Cozumel due to current travel restrictions, the island still offers plenty of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. From enjoying the pristine beaches to exploring the underwater world through snorkeling or diving, Cozumel continues to be a popular destination for those seeking a tropical getaway. With careful planning and adherence to the local guidelines and protocols, tourists can still have a memorable and enjoyable experience while visiting Cozumel.

Navigating Cook Islands Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

Traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic can be a confusing and ever-changing experience. If you are planning a trip to Cozumel, Mexico, it's important to be aware of any quarantine requirements that may be in place. Additionally, you should also consider the quarantine requirements when returning to your home country after visiting Cozumel.

As of now, there are no quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in Cozumel, Mexico. However, it's important to note that the situation can change rapidly, and it's always a good idea to stay informed and up to date with the latest travel advisories and restrictions.

When returning to your home country after visiting Cozumel, it will depend on the regulations and guidelines in place by your country of residence. Many countries have implemented quarantine requirements for travelers returning from international destinations. These requirements can vary from country to country and even state to state within a country.

Before planning your trip to Cozumel, check the travel advisories and guidelines provided by your government. These resources will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding quarantine requirements upon arrival or return from Cozumel.

In addition to government guidelines, it's also a good idea to check with your airline or travel provider for any specific requirements they may have. Some airlines may require a negative COVID-19 test before boarding or have their own quarantine protocols in place.

It's important to stay informed and flexible when planning your trip to Cozumel, Mexico, or any other destination during these uncertain times. Be prepared for potential changes in travel restrictions and have a contingency plan in case your original travel plans need to be altered.

Remember to follow all necessary health and safety protocols during your trip, such as wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing your hands. By doing so, you can help protect yourself and others while enjoying your time in Cozumel.

Rocky Point Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, there are currently travel restrictions in place for Cozumel, Mexico due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Mexican government has implemented various measures to control the spread of the virus, including limited access to the island and mandatory health screenings for all travelers.

Yes, tourists are still allowed to travel to Cozumel, Mexico. However, it is important to note that traveling to the island may be subject to certain restrictions and requirements, such as providing a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination.

The need for quarantine upon arrival in Cozumel, Mexico depends on the specific entry requirements in place at the time of travel. Currently, if travelers present a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination, quarantine may not be required. However, it is always advisable to check the latest guidelines before traveling.

Yes, there are specific health and safety protocols in place in Cozumel, Mexico to protect both residents and tourists. These protocols may include wearing face masks in public places, practicing physical distancing, and regular handwashing or sanitizing. It is important to be aware of and abide by these protocols during your visit to Cozumel.

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• Julia May Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

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Journey Around The Globe

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How Safe Is Cozumel?

Posted on April 9, 2018 by Globe Runner

How Safe Is Cozumel?

Recently a travel advisory was issued about Cozumel. But how safe is Cozumel? Safest Place in Mexico. According to Dailene Erickson who has been a resident of the town for the past 17years, the travel advisory is not only unwarranted but taints a false and negative picture of a wonderful town.

She first arrived in the town for scuba diving in the year 1993 and immediately fell in love with the town. The culture and the scenery were some of her prime attractions. After making Cozumel her home in 2001 she has been able to work in various places and has even fortunate enough to raise her daughter.

Her view of the town

Knowing just basic Spanish when she moved to the town, she has been able to climb the ladder from a single lady looking for a job to a successful entrepreneur in Cozumel. Her previous jobs as a dive master and bartender have made her understand life in the town. This makes her opinion on town safety very reliable.

Cozumel is a hub of sporting activities. There are various sports such as windsurfing, paddle boarding, and even triathlons. The climate around the shores makes it very conducive to enjoy these games. The town has a 40mile bike track that snakes its way around the island. This is the prime spot for undertaking sporting activities such as bike riding or even hiking.

The town is rich in biodiversity. There is a lot of marine life that one gets to see. If one is lucky you even get to see an Eco-race when swimming in the cool ocean waters along the shore.

Safety. Being a person who loves running, Dalaine has been able to engage in the hobby at any time may it be day or night. Being a lady, she always takes the necessary precautions every time she hits the road. Over the years, she has however not experienced any form of insecurity.

What other people think of the town

Her love for sports has made her interact with quite a number of people who are curious about how safe it is for her to run around the town all by her self-considering she is a lady. From her experience, there is nothing to fear. If she has been able to even raise her daughter in Cozumel, there should be nothing stopping anyone else from enjoying a peaceful and fulfilling life in the town.

Get your facts right

If one relies on the news alone, you may get the wrong impression of Cozumel but in today’s world we are inundated with fake news that distorts the truth and this is being down by tourism centers trying to take business away from Cozumel by putting out fake news to say it isn’t safe when it clearly is. There are various Facebook posts that paint a very positive picture of the town. Very many tourists visit the island each year and have been able to establish how wonderful the place is not only as a tourist destination but a place to start a home.

Being the safest place in Mexico is an honor and there’s so many great resorts like this one from Royal Holiday Vacation Club the world’s best travel company according to Trip Advisor . Cozumel is an island that is worth paying a visit. There is a lot in store for you when it comes to sports and beautiful scenery. It is a safe place and you are bound to enjoy the experience.

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Category: North America , Outdoor , Trips Tags: cozumel , mexico , Outdoor , tips , trips , vacation

3 Comments on “ How Safe Is Cozumel? ”

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On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 11:16 PM, Journey Around The Globe wrote:

> Globe Runner posted: “How Safe Is Cozumel? Recently a travel advisory was > issued about Cozumel. But how safe is Cozumel? Safest Place in Mexico. > According to Dailene Erickson who has been a resident of the town for the > past 17years, the travel advisory is not only unwarranted” >

Pingback: Cozumel has recently been named the safest Beach in Mexico after an independent RCN study was conducted. – Quebec Daily Examiner

Pingback: Cozumel has recently been named the safest Beach in Mexico after an independent RCN study was conducted. – Canadian Business Tribune

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It's very safe but there is petty theft like anywhere else. Yes, everything is restored since Hurricane Wilma. There's lots to do on the island. Please read the things to do section on the left of this page. Also peruse the Top questions on your right. Of course there are markets for purchasing food & alcohol. The grocery stores Mega and Chedraui have a good selection or you can go to an actual liquor store like Covi. Most of the beaches on the island do not have beach hawkers. Read topics for more info.

Enjoy your trip!

In brief before everyone tells you to read the questions on the side- yes cozumel is safe. It is safer than where i live and most places in the US. Just follow the samee rules you do at home. As far as things to do i have never been there long enough to get bored. I dive everyday and hang out with my local freinds. Get out and experience some of the nicest people you will ever meet on the island. enjoy- be there in feb. for 9 days-

Good advice by okd. Just take normal precautions as you would anywhere. Like any place, it has some minor crimes of theft with a few exceptions.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g150768-c188486/Mexico:Safety.In.Cozumel.Safety.In.Mexico.html

To answer your addtional questions:

- Yes, the beaches and roads have all been repaired for many years. You would never know anything happened.

- I suppose there is always "minor" crime, but I never hear anyone speak of it so can't be too bad. Fewer thefts than in my "good" neighborhood in MN.

- Plenty to do on Cozumel -- I spend a month there every winter and never get bored. Read the "things to do" section here.

- Yes, plenty of places to buy any groceries and/or alcohol -- huge grocery store, Mega, just like home.

- I have never seen even one "beach hawker" on Cozumel. Avoid the timeshare guys at the airport and you're home free.

I say, forget Playa and come to Cozumel!

¨I suppose there is always "minor" crime, but I never hear anyone speak of it so can't be too bad.¨ It has increased and is well covered by local media. But most never see the local press. I believe JerryAk made a good post about it fairly recently. Biggest problem has been with drive by purse snatching and moped theft. Not serious but something to be aware of.

All in all, a very safe place.

The topic started by referencing a recent review of El Cozumeleño Beach Resort dated December 23rd made by Cozreview which is now on page 3. The intent of the thread topic was to cast doubt on the review which a couple reported being robbed at knife-point on the beach a few yards from the resort.

What soon followed was more than seven pages of replies, including seven replies by the reviewer in "question". It contained replies from people knowledgeable, the person who organised the meeting with the police chief regarding formation of a Neighbourhood Watch Group.

You can read a letter from the U.S. Consulate representative http://www.cozumel.net/News-From-Cozumel/

Most info is being shared on Facebook, which I don't Facebook. You can check: Cozumel neighborhood watch

The bottom line is it would be wise to employ basic awareness and caution as you should anywhere. The scene has changed since when virtually zero incidents affected tourists. Again, I would urge far more caution in Playa

Fanny Bay - fav spot to visit

Loved your FBI

Hawkers - yes, but not as bad as Playa

Lots of places to shop

I watch kids playing up and down the street and mothers walking their children to school in the morning and I visit with my neighbors.

Use common sense and take basic precautions like visiting any big city and you will have an excellent trip. I know a lot of people like to rent a Jeep and drive with the top down. It is nice but there is absolutely no place to secure anything in a Jeep . Rent something that has a trunk. You can put your valueables from beach towels, cameras, groceries, and all the things you buy out of sight and keep them secure.

There are petty crimes and burglaries that happend on Cozumel. With a population of about 80,000 like in any big city these things are going to happen. There are Neighborhoold Watches that have been formed and I know of two friends there were victims of purse snatchings.

There is a naval base on the island along with a Mexican Marine contigent as well as federal and local police. And just in case you didn't know the President of Mexico has a home here as well.

No matter where you are staying get out and see the sites. Get back on 30th and 65th and farther and eat where the locals eat. The food is excellent and prices are less than on Melgar. Tour around the island don't just spend all your time inside an all inclusive.There is a ton of stuff to see and do.

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It's very safe but there is petty theft like anywhere else. Yes, everything is restored since Hurricane Wilma. There's lots to do on the island. Please read the things to do section on the left of this page. Also peruse the Top questions on your right. Of course there are markets for purchasing food & alcohol. The grocery stores Mega and Chedraui have a good selection or you can go to an actual liquor store like Covi. Most of the beaches on the island do not have beach hawkers. Read topics for more info.

Enjoy your trip!

In brief before everyone tells you to read the questions on the side- yes cozumel is safe. It is safer than where i live and most places in the US. Just follow the samee rules you do at home. As far as things to do i have never been there long enough to get bored. I dive everyday and hang out with my local freinds. Get out and experience some of the nicest people you will ever meet on the island. enjoy- be there in feb. for 9 days-

Good advice by okd. Just take normal precautions as you would anywhere. Like any place, it has some minor crimes of theft with a few exceptions.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g150768-c188486/Mexico:Safety.In.Cozumel.Safety.In.Mexico.html

To answer your addtional questions:

- Yes, the beaches and roads have all been repaired for many years. You would never know anything happened.

- I suppose there is always "minor" crime, but I never hear anyone speak of it so can't be too bad. Fewer thefts than in my "good" neighborhood in MN.

- Plenty to do on Cozumel -- I spend a month there every winter and never get bored. Read the "things to do" section here.

- Yes, plenty of places to buy any groceries and/or alcohol -- huge grocery store, Mega, just like home.

- I have never seen even one "beach hawker" on Cozumel. Avoid the timeshare guys at the airport and you're home free.

I say, forget Playa and come to Cozumel!

¨I suppose there is always "minor" crime, but I never hear anyone speak of it so can't be too bad.¨ It has increased and is well covered by local media. But most never see the local press. I believe JerryAk made a good post about it fairly recently. Biggest problem has been with drive by purse snatching and moped theft. Not serious but something to be aware of.

All in all, a very safe place.

The topic started by referencing a recent review of El Cozumeleño Beach Resort dated December 23rd made by Cozreview which is now on page 3. The intent of the thread topic was to cast doubt on the review which a couple reported being robbed at knife-point on the beach a few yards from the resort.

What soon followed was more than seven pages of replies, including seven replies by the reviewer in "question". It contained replies from people knowledgeable, the person who organised the meeting with the police chief regarding formation of a Neighbourhood Watch Group.

You can read a letter from the U.S. Consulate representative http://www.cozumel.net/News-From-Cozumel/

Most info is being shared on Facebook, which I don't Facebook. You can check: Cozumel neighborhood watch

The bottom line is it would be wise to employ basic awareness and caution as you should anywhere. The scene has changed since when virtually zero incidents affected tourists. Again, I would urge far more caution in Playa

Fanny Bay - fav spot to visit

Loved your FBI

Hawkers - yes, but not as bad as Playa

Lots of places to shop

I watch kids playing up and down the street and mothers walking their children to school in the morning and I visit with my neighbors.

Use common sense and take basic precautions like visiting any big city and you will have an excellent trip. I know a lot of people like to rent a Jeep and drive with the top down. It is nice but there is absolutely no place to secure anything in a Jeep . Rent something that has a trunk. You can put your valueables from beach towels, cameras, groceries, and all the things you buy out of sight and keep them secure.

There are petty crimes and burglaries that happend on Cozumel. With a population of about 80,000 like in any big city these things are going to happen. There are Neighborhoold Watches that have been formed and I know of two friends there were victims of purse snatchings.

There is a naval base on the island along with a Mexican Marine contigent as well as federal and local police. And just in case you didn't know the President of Mexico has a home here as well.

No matter where you are staying get out and see the sites. Get back on 30th and 65th and farther and eat where the locals eat. The food is excellent and prices are less than on Melgar. Tour around the island don't just spend all your time inside an all inclusive.There is a ton of stuff to see and do.

• Playa Azul questions 7:19 pm
• Trip Report - March 2024 w/ pictures yesterday
• Beach snorkeling! HELP! Jun 08, 2024
• Quick Westin report Jun 07, 2024
• Very Short Trip Report Jun 07, 2024
• Hotels w/sandy beach walking distance from El-Centro,Cozumel Jun 06, 2024
• All inclusive Resort with great snorkeling from the beach Jun 06, 2024
• Solo Trip Jun 05, 2024
• Cozumel weather in early October? Jun 05, 2024
• Phone Number or email address for Island Jewels in Cozumel Jun 02, 2024
• Cozumel Airport transportation. Jun 01, 2024
• Private driver to drive us to Chichen Itza Jun 01, 2024
• Off shore Snorkeling May 29, 2024
• Visitax May 26, 2024
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Local's Guide to the Cozumel National Marine Park (2024)

N estled in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Cozumel National Marine Park offers much more than meets the eye. Renowned for its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life, this marine sanctuary is a haven for divers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts.

Established to protect and preserve the delicate ecosystems found beneath the waves, the park spans an impressive area along the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world.

Let’s explore what makes the National Marine Park in Cozumel a must-visit destination and uncover the efforts taken to safeguard its beauty for generations to come.

What is the Cozumel National Marine Park?

The National Marine Park in Cozumel is a 29,652-acre protected area and a sanctuary for marine life. The park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, housing some of the most spectacular underwater landscapes in the world.

The park’s main draw is its expansive coral reef system, a part of the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. These reefs are home to over 500 species of fish, 26 species of corals, and an array of marine mammals, turtles, and other sea creatures.

The Marine Park contributes significantly to the local economy through tourism, while serving as a vital breeding and feeding ground for marine life.

What Does the Park Protect?

The Marine Park is a safe haven for numerous species, including endangered ones. It’s home to vibrant schools of fish, majestic sea turtles, and elusive species like the splendid toadfish, unique to Cozumel.

The park also sees seasonal visitors such as whale sharks and eagle rays, making it a dynamic marine environment.

Perhaps the park’s most precious asset is its extensive coral reef system. These reefs are not just beautiful; they’re crucial for the survival of many marine species. They provide shelter, breeding grounds, and hunting areas for various forms of marine life.

However, the reefs are fragile. Threats like climate change, pollution, and overfishing put them at risk, which makes the park’s conservation efforts all the more essential.

Beyond the reefs, the park also encompasses significant areas of mangroves and seagrass beds. These ecosystems are vital nurseries for young fish and serve as filters that keep the water clean. They’re also carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change effects.

Through protecting these diverse ecosystems, the Cozumel National Marine Park plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and health of the Caribbean Sea.

Where is the National Marine Park?

The park encompasses the southern part of Cozumel Island and extends several miles out to sea. It is part of the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.

History of Cozumel’s National Marine Park

The park was officially established in 1996, but its story began much earlier. The waters around Cozumel have long been revered for their natural beauty and abundant marine life.

Over time, as the popularity of scuba diving grew, so did the recognition of the need to protect this unique ecosystem.

The park’s creation marked a significant milestone in marine conservation in Mexico . It was a response to the increasing pressures from tourism and fishing, which threatened the delicate balance of the reef ecosystems.

The establishment of the park set in motion a series of conservation initiatives aimed at preserving the marine life, coral reefs, and overall health of the ocean in this region.

Efforts to protect and manage the Cozumel National Marine Park have been a collaborative endeavor. Local communities, government agencies, and international conservation groups have worked together to implement sustainable practices.

These include regulating fishing activities, controlling boat traffic, and promoting eco-friendly tourism.

Exploring the Park

The park’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, the park offers a range of sites suitable for all skill levels.

You can swim alongside schools of tropical fish, glide over breathtaking coral formations, and even encounter friendly sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Cozumel is known for its water sports so many guided tours are available, offering a safe and informative way to explore the park. These tours often include stops at famous diving spots like Palancar Reef, known for its massive coral formations, and Columbia Reef, celebrated for its diverse marine life and dramatic drop-offs.

For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling in the park is equally rewarding. The shallower reef areas, like El Cielo, are teeming with starfish and colorful fish, offering a tranquil yet mesmerizing experience.

Conservation and Preservation Efforts

The Cozumel National Marine Park employs a multifaceted approach to conservation. This includes regular monitoring of marine life, coral reef health assessments, and controlling visitor impact through sustainable tourism practices.

One of the key strategies is the regulation of fishing activities within the park to prevent overfishing and protect breeding grounds.

Additionally, the park works closely with scientific researchers and environmental groups to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems.

These efforts include coral reef restoration projects and studies on the resilience of different species to changing ocean conditions.

Cozumel also practices a rotating closure system for its dive sites . This allows different areas of the reef to recover, reducing the cumulative impact of diving activities.

How Visitors Can Contribute

Visitors play a crucial role in the conservation efforts. By adhering to park rules, such as not touching the coral or feeding the fish, tourists help minimize human impact.

Many tour operators in the area also participate in eco-friendly practices and offer educational tours that highlight the importance of marine conservation.

The park encourages visitors to get involved in conservation activities, such as beach clean-ups or citizen science projects, where they can contribute to the preservation of this natural wonder.

Balancing Conservation and Tourism

The park authorities and local stakeholders are aware of the need to balance environmental conservation with tourism development.

Measures such as limiting the number of visitors to certain areas, establishing no-take zones, and enforcing regulations on water activities are in place to minimize the ecological footprint of tourism.

Education plays a key role in this balance. By informing visitors about the fragility of marine ecosystems and the importance of responsible tourism practices, the park aims to create a community of environmentally conscious travelers.

Many local businesses and tour operators have embraced sustainable practices. This includes using eco-friendly equipment, offering guided tours that respect wildlife, and participating in environmental education programs.

These practices not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to the conservation of the park’s natural resources.

By adopting sustainable practices and promoting responsible tourism, the park and its visitors can work together to ensure that this natural wonder remains vibrant and thriving for future generations.

Wrap-Up: National Marine Park in Cozumel

As we conclude our exploration of the Cozumel National Marine Park, it’s clear that this spectacular marine environment is more than just a destination; it’s a vibrant, living ecosystem that plays a crucial role in environmental, cultural, and economic spheres.

Visiting the park offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the underwater world and to contribute to its preservation. It’s a reminder of our responsibility to interact with our environment in a way that respects and sustains its natural splendor.

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Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips

Do i need travel insurance.

YES . No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing . They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company . They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe  — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.

You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels,  Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels,  check out Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to  check VRBO , which is often cheaper with more options.

What do I pack for Mexico?

  My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.

What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Probably Not . U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa  check the Mexican Consulate’s website.

For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa .

Protect Your Trip »

Best mexico beaches for 2024.

Mexico is filled with breathtaking shorelines that appeal to partiers and R&R-seekers alike. Whether you plan on exploring quiet beach towns or kicking back at a luxurious resort, a Mexican beach vacation is sure to impress. U.S. News considered user votes and factors like scenery, water clarity, crowd congestion and nearby amenities to create this list of the best beach destinations in Mexico. Help us determine next year's ranking by casting your vote below. Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out our picks for the top adults-only , family-friendly and  affordable all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the website for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla holbox, isla mujeres, puerto ángel, puerto vallarta, playa del carmen, puerto escondido.

Sitting on Mexico's Pacific coast about 145 miles north of Acapulco, Zihuatanejo features miles of pristine beaches and cobblestone streets. The city stands out because it's not as commercialized as many of Mexico's other beloved vacation destinations , allowing visitors to enjoy some quality rest and relaxation. Playa La Ropa, which is bordered by picturesque palm trees, is the most popular stretch of sand, whereas Playa Manzanillo is an ideal spot for snorkeling. Meanwhile, secluded Playa Las Gatas is an excellent choice for families and features calm waters and a wide selection of nearby restaurants.

Separated from the northeastern tip of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula by a shallow lagoon, Isla Holbox offers calm, quiet beaches – a stark contrast to its rowdy southern neighbors Cancun and Playa del Carmen. On the western side of the island near downtown Holbox sits Playa Punta Cocos, a stunning stretch of sand known for its incredible sunsets and prime bird-watching and fishing opportunities. There's also the more secluded Punta Mosquito, which boasts a sandbar and shallow water for relaxing strolls and swims. While on Isla Holbox, keep an eye out for the numerous flamingos and whale sharks that call the area home.

Isla Mujeres, situated off the coast of Cancun in the state of Quintana Roo, makes for an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from the mainland. The beautiful beaches that line this island are characterized by their glittering white sand , swaying palms and brilliantly blue water. Playa Norte, the island's most popular beach, features calm waters, beach bars and chair and umbrella rentals. Other must-visit stretches of sand include Playa Centro and Garrafon Natural Reef Park, where colorful coral reefs attract snorkelers in droves.

This laid-back island off the coast of Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico's premier diving and snorkeling destinations. Paradise Beach, an all-inclusive beach club on the island's western side, is popular with families thanks to its calm waters and ample amenities, including a floating water park, daybeds and various nearby vendors. Meanwhile, travelers in search of striking turquoise waters, boat tour options and superb snorkeling and kayaking opportunities will love visiting Playa El Cielo and Playa Palancar. However, Cozumel's sandy shores suffer from one big downside: thick crowds. Tourists descend on the island annually, making it hard to find a secluded spot.

Characterized by its steep cliffs, peaceful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, the unassuming fishing village of Puerto Ángel is a welcome reprieve from the tourist-laden shorelines of other Mexico beaches. The town's main beach, Playa Principal, is within walking distance of several bars and restaurants (though this proximity can lead to some cleanliness issues), while the calm, shallow waters of nearby Playa La Boquilla make for premier snorkeling opportunities. For a more secluded beach experience, consider lounging on beautiful Playa Zipolite. Just keep in mind that nudity is legal on this stretch of shoreline.

Travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path beach getaway will find it in Troncones. Sitting about 20 miles northwest of Zihuatanejo, this underrated coastal town is often overlooked in favor of its more popular neighbor to the south. However, in-the-know travelers will attest that there are plenty of reasons to visit Troncones (delicious seafood and prime surfing conditions, to name a few). With roughly 3 miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline, Playa Troncones is a tranquil place to unwind and watch the sun set. Meanwhile, those looking to hang ten should set their sights on Manzanillo Bay or Playa La Saladita, a nearby surfing hub famous for its long left point break.

Located 25 miles northwest of the busy city center and crowded shorelines of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is the perfect Mexico beach destination for surfers and anyone in search of peace and quiet. Catch a massive wave or spend a calm afternoon sunbathing at the secluded Playa Carricitos. Or if you're a beginner, sign up for a surf lesson at one of Playa Sayulita's many surf schools. For slightly safer swimming conditions and excellent people-watching, visit Playa de los Muertos (Dead Man's Beach). When you need a break from the sand, check out this relaxed town's colorful shops and cafes.

Just beyond the Tulum Archaeological Site about 80 miles southwest of Cancun lies one of Mexico's best beach experiences, Playa Ruinas. Come to Playa Ruinas in the early morning or later in the evening to enjoy the sand beneath Mayan ruins without interruption. Also save time for Playa Paraíso, the most highly regarded beach in Tulum. Here, you can lounge on the white sand and take in the ocean's varying blue hues. However, some visitors warn that seasonal seaweed occasionally clogs this popular shoreline. When you're hungry, you'll find no shortage of mouthwatering restaurants along the coast.

Cancun's beaches are some of the most popular in Mexico, recognized for their powder-soft sands and crystal-clear waters. While many will stick to the shoreline outside their resort , visitors should consider exploring the area's other options, too. Travelers love the relaxed vibe, calm surf (perfect for snorkeling) and clean sand at Playa Tortugas and laud the relatively less-crowded and scenic Playa Delfines. And because tourists tend to favor Cancun, vacationers can find plenty of restaurants, shops and a wide range of resorts just steps from the sand when it's time to retreat from the sun.

Puerto Vallarta is home to superb beaches – some small, some hidden and some accessible only by boat. Surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains, Playa Colomitos is the smallest beach in Mexico. Located about 15 miles southwest of Puerto Vallarta, travelers can reach this under-the-radar shoreline by hopping on a brief boat ride or making the 40-minute hike from Boca de Tomatlán. Meanwhile, Playa Las Gemelas features calming turquoise waters and warm sands, while Playa Camarones (Shrimp Beach) is easily reachable by car and is a great place to enjoy water sports like kayaking, parasailing and Jet Skiing.

Situated on Mexico's Pacific coast about 25 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita is an incredible luxury beach vacation spot. The area is home to upscale vacation rentals and five-star hotels, including a St. Regis and a Four Seasons . Exclusivity and seclusion set Punta Mita apart from neighboring Mexico beaches, allowing travelers to soak up the tranquil atmosphere. What's more, because the lodging options are limited, the beaches are less crowded and better maintained. If you're hoping to enjoy even more elbow room while sunbathing, take a boat to secluded beaches like La Lancha and the Islas Marietas.

Located in Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen once had the ambiance of a sleepy European coastal town. Now, these beaches are among the most popular along the Yucatan Peninsula. Central beaches like Playa Mamitas boast beach clubs that are just as hip, loud and crowded as those found in Cancun, and thanks to the numerous resorts tracing the coastline, you'll likely have direct access to the beach from your hotel. If you'd rather relax than go clubbing, hit up gems like Playa Punta Esmeralda, Playa Xpu-Ha and Playa Paamul.

Positioned along Mexico's southern Pacific coast, Puerto Escondido offers an array of beautiful beaches to choose from. Playa Zicatela hosts annual surfing competitions – visit in late spring or summer when swells can reach higher than 20 feet. But remember, the beach's dangerous undertow is not safe for first-time surfers. If you'd like to practice hanging ten, sign up for a lesson at a beginner-friendly surfing beach like Playa Carrizalillo. Meanwhile, nearby shores like La Punta and Playa Principal offer calmer waves for swimming. After soaking up some rays on the beach, travelers can take advantage of Puerto Escondido's abundant bars, restaurants and shops.

Composed of nine bays and dozens of beaches, Huatulco occupies 20-plus miles of Pacific shoreline in Mexico's southern state of Oaxaca. Those looking for beaches safe for relaxing and swimming should check out small, clean Playa Arrocito and bustling Playa La Entrega, which is known for its snorkeling and restaurant offerings. Visitors seeking a bit of adventure can travel to beaches that are only accessible via boat or hiking trails, such as Bahía de Cacaluta in Parque Nacional Huatulco. Other things to do in and around Huatulco include waterfall tours and fishing charters.

Just a 5-mile drive northwest of Zihuatanejo, this town is known for its numerous high-rise resorts and picturesque, sandy shoreline. The beautiful scenery and impressive sunsets are what draw travelers to this beach town. Ixtapa's main beach is Playa El Palmar, which is populated with water sports vendors and concession stands. Keep in mind, though, that the waves and currents at this beach can be rough, so take caution while swimming. For an ideal beach day, take a water taxi to the car-free Isla Ixtapa, where you can snorkel at Playa Coral or swim in the calm waters at Playa Varadero.

Set about 100 miles north of Cabo San Lucas on Baja California Sur's eastern coast, La Paz overlooks the Gulf of California. It features a modest beach that lines its waterfront promenade, but the standout beaches are a short trek from the city center. Playa Balandra, which sits approximately 17 miles north of the city, features long stretches of white sand, plus warm, shallow water ideal for families. Visitors can rent kayaks here as well. Travelers interested in seeing the coastline and the more remote Ensenada Grande beach on Isla Partida may want to consider a boat tour.

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Cozumel 2024 is Still Safe, Just Avoid These 7 Common Hazards

The most common question I’m asked here on the blog is if Cozumel is safe to visit in 2024. I can tell you how safe I’ve always felt living in Cozumel as a single woman, and that I’ve had zero scary incidents, etc.

But I also get it. I’m from NYC. We all need to be skeptical and prioritize personal safety, these days. Especially when you’re spending your hard-earned money, and limited vacation time!

On the one hand, there have several more isolated incidents of serious crimes in early 2024.

These news stories (which mainly reveal targeted incidents of Cozumel drug-related crimes, FWIW), combined with the U.S. State Department’s 2024 update for staying safe during Spring Break travel to Mexico have raised some new fears about safety when traveling to Mexico.

On the other hand, recent news of several major airlines adding many new flights to Cozumel in this high season, and the ever-growing investment in Cruise ships and Cozumel’s super-busy cruise ship visitation show that their market researchers see the increased tourism demand for Cozumel, and don’t seem too worried about (already low) Cozumel crime rates .

These major corporations clearly believe that Cozumel is safe and a good investment for their fleet.

The brand new luxury Dreams Resort and other active construction projects all over the island seem to indicate the same. A lot of risk analysis backs investment dollars, after all.

Most of you are cautious and curious, and may even wonder if a trip to Mexico is dangerous or if Cozumel safety is too risky. In other words: Is Cozumel worth it?!

Cozumel is still a very safe place to vacation in 2024, with a low historic crime rate, especially relative to other US and Mexican destinations . In the high-traffic tourist areas, crime is nearly zero and there are helpful and friendly people everywhere, including local information booths and municipal police officers.

Everyone understands the value of Cozumel safety for the the local tourism industry, and the safety of visiting tourists is given the highest priority.

If you read the specifics in the U.S. State Department guidelines on Mexico , however, you’ll be reminded that there are NO advisements against travel to Cozumel, itself.

Nor against travel to Cancun and the overall Riviera Maya region of Mexico, for that matter.

In the section of those travel advisories about Cozumel, Cancun, and other local hotspots, there is simply a reminder to maintain awareness and caution, as you would anywhere .

In addition, anticipating Cozumel’s high tourist months in 2024 , a renewed commitment to Cozumel’s security was announced, including the installation of additional surveillance technology throughout Cozumel , and increased security forces from the State and national resources.

Cozumel’s tourism numbers are not only returning to pre-pandemic numbers already, but are cruising right past them!

The tourism numbers for 2023 were huge, and there will be more than double the number of cruises and passengers looking forward in 2024, and beyond – and that’s not to mention the dive tourism crowds.

Further, Mexico’s tourism sector is one of the best-performing industries in the country this year, so they have a lot to protect.

So is Cozumel safe? Yes, yes it is. And Cozumel is especially safe for cruisers, divers, and tourists of all kinds.

By following some pretty obvious safety precautions, you can feel confident traveling to this region in Mexico, and especially to the quiet and remote island of Cozumel.

As the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory page for the state of Quintana Roo advises: Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations . 

So, in other words, keep your wits about you, don’t wander around alone in areas you aren’t familiar with, don’t buy street drugs, etc.

Rest assured, Cozumel is a very safe and friendly tourism destination for adults, families, and solo female travelers.

And local stakeholders – including a very visible local, state and federal police presence in Cozumel – intend to keep it that way.

So with that out of the way, what ARE some of the common hazards you might face in Cozumel?

Perhaps not what you think…

Is Cozumel Safe to Visit in 2024?

The vast majority of visitors rave about feeling safe in Cozumel, and would agree that it’s a fun and friendly place to vacation in 2024.

Many of us even felt so safe time after time, that we decided to live here! 

Now, Mexico overall gets a bad safety rap, especially in the news. 

Some of this is sensationalized by things like Narcos on Netflix, or based on perceptions of the images coming from the border and U.S. detention centers in recent years.

That said, there are serious incidents of crime, most often specific to drug-related trade and turf wars, often focused along the northern states of Mexico.

Most of this happens in areas closer to the northern U.S. border areas, the Baja and Sinoloa regions, and other known areas where tourism is definitely discouraged. Unfortunately, Cancun and Tulum have had several isolated headline-making incidents, and now Cozumel has had a handful of narcotics-related violent crimes, as well.

Reported crime in residential neighborhoods still consists mainly of petty theft, interpersonal/domestic incidents, and small-scale drug use and sales. Violent crime in Cozumel happens now, but is still very rare and is usually tied to interpersonal disputes or drugs.

Cozumel crime is at a very low crime rate , especially when it comes to visiting tourists.

Trust me, the local police and the local business community understand the importance of keeping our streets safe for locals and tourists, alike.

For some more information on area crime stats and travel advisory information to figure out is Cozumel safe, check out this related post on the things Cozumel is best known for, here .

5-Hour tour time. Book online and securely pay via Viator!

Common Catastrophes the Impact Cozumel Safety

In fact, most dangers here on our pretty little island tend to be accidental or somewhat self-inflicted. Like, riding a moto in a new place after drinking?  Not smart – see more below… 

So maybe the better question might be, “Is Cozumel safe if I’m as careful as I am at home ?”

As a single, middle-aged woman who moved to Cozumel in my late 40s, I have always walked around town quite confidently at all hours, and don’t feel nervous. But mind you, I’m also taking the same personal precautions I would take anywhere else.

I’m not a victim blamer, but I know very well that we can all find trouble if we want to – or at least tempt fate.  

I also know that sometimes it seems like a fun escape to take risks that you would only take on your ‘wild and crazy’ vacation. 

I’ve seen far more bad behavior by tourists here than I have shady deals by locals.  Just sayin ’. 

You can’t guarantee nothing will go wrong, or you’ll never have a bad or scary encounter. 

But if you know to use logic and reasonable caution in your familiar home area, it makes the most sense to use the same – or a little more, even – in a foreign place that you are visiting. Right? 

So first off, use your head .  Which basically means use these common traveling safety tips to mitigate the vast majority of issues to safety while on vacation in Cozumel (or anywhere you travel):

General Travel & Cozumel Safety Tips

• Don’t carry around large amounts of cash or wear flashy jewelry
• Keep copies of your passport, ID, credit and debit cards, and other important documents in the cloud, and in your hotel safe
• Don’t leave mixed drinks unattended
• Get a fully waterproof pouch for your phone and wallet, so you don’t need to leave them for too long if you go swimming (and you should definitely go swimming!)
• Confirm that your mobile phone plan allows for international calls/texts – if it doesn’t, add the texting app WhatsApp to your phone before you take off (especially in Cozumel WhatsApp is used heavily)
• Have good trip/travel insurance, in case of any injuries or trip interruptions (see our pick down below)
• Make sure your insurance covers the whole family, especially if traveling to another country
• Review our list of the best Cozumel hospitals , just in case, so you are reassured if anything arises
• Bring copies of any prescriptions you and your family take, in case you need to inform a doctor or you need to refill something while away
• When traveling with others, especially children, go places in groups of two or more
• Stay in the main tourist areas of town – if you don’t know the area, avoid wandering around

By following these basic tips you’ll solve most potential travel snags, and ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Second, have a fun vacation! 

And thirdly, review these 7 Cozumel-specific safety suggestions to help yourself stay safe from some of our more typical holiday hazards.  

1. Think Twice Before Renting a Moto Scooter in Cozumel

Whether it’s involving seasoned residents or gung-ho vacationers, I see at least two moto accidents a week.  Maybe two or more per day, at time s during high season.

And while getting a little older has not diminished my romantic love of the open road with the wind in my hair, it has definitely modified my risk-reward analysis when it comes to visions of split-second skid outs and hot, bloody road burn. 

And that’s if you’re lucky. 

There are so many people that come here and rent motos without the faintest clue of how and where to drive them!  And – though it is most definitely NOT permitted here –  many more that do so after they’ve been drinking.  

From property damage to scrapes and cuts, broken bones, and much much worse…it’s just not worth it.

Rent a car , if you must, or take advantage of Cozumel’s huge number of professional taxis to get where you need to go.  

An even better suggestion? Rent an electric bike in Cozumel.  (I swear, it’s really fun!)  So much more fun than I anticipated, and a heck of a lot safer. 

Getting out there on your own, or with a guided tour from Beach Bum Bikes , feels free-spirited and like you’re one with your adventurous side…but just easier. And lighter. And quieter.  And a more eco-friendly Cozumel adventure.

And you won’t end up in the Cozumel International hospital (with no insurance, no pesos, and likely no clue how to get by in Spanish, depending on where you end up).  

2. Cheers Cozumel! But Don’t Drink Like an Amateur

For reals, guys. It’s embarrassing.  

Between travel, jet lag, sun, adrenaline, or maybe just sheer drunken dumbassery, the number of people here trying to prove they can get their drink on – and failing miserably – Is. Just. Embarrassing.  

Yes, you can go to free tequila tastings where you learn about the tequila process, and then try a peanut butter tequila shot…with a mango tequila chaser.   

And yes, you can get a margarita as big as your head at some of the (legitimately) fun and cool places downtown.  

Don’t make them regret it! 

There’s nothing cute about drunk, sweaty, and sunburned. 

Plus, you don’t want to lose your _____________. (phone, bag, wallet, hotel key, fill in the blank)

Stick to a few cold frosty Mexican beers , drink tons of water, and just…don’t lose your shit. lol. You’ll thank me in the morning.

3. Cozumel Divers: Be Safe and Take Your Refresher Class

Cozumel diver safety rule #1.

Be sure to have your DAN Divers’ Insurance membership up to date and activated. And if you don’t carry DAN insurance, use this link and do so now. It is a no-brainer, and the best money you’ll ever spend as a diver. Period.

The most important piece of dive gear in your kit.

Go ahead, I’ll wait…

Cozumel Diver Safety Rule #2

If it’s been at least a year since your last SCUBA dive, or you’re kinda new, or you just feel a little rusty, just take the darn refresher session! 

It’s short. It’s easy. It’ll make you feel better. It’s the right thing to do.

Or at least admit that you might need a little warm-up time or to do a quick shore dive first when you sign up for your day(s) of diving! 

We all needed to learn, right?  And we all know that diving is not to be trifled with, at the end of the day.  And we all get rusty after some time away from the water.  Just take the tiny amount of time (one hour, give or take), and do the open water diving refresher skills course. 

There is no shame in that!!

But there is some shame in inflating your current skill level and putting your dive guides and fellow divers in a less than ideal situation. 

As a divemaster intern here in Cozumel a few years back,  at least once a week – and definitely more during high season – a new boat full of divers would excitedly get on board.

As we made our way out to the first dive site, at least one person would not be as familiar with how to set up his tank, or a little hesitant when doing fairly common setup tasks. 

No biggie. Makes sense. No problem…yet.

When approached, usually that person would explain how many dives he had, whether it’s been a while, if he felt a little nervous or not, etc.  Fine. Great. Let’s make a little plan, anticipate a few potential issues, and nip them in the bud. Right? 

Right. IF you open up and admit it. 

For some reason, many others seemed to be embarrassed to share that kind of information.  Or sometimes, even downright stubborn about how much experience he had, or how many c-cards were in the ol’ wallet.  

Well, sorry.  But 9 times out of 10, that was the guy who dropped (or forgot) his weights, had a fogged-up mask, poor buoyancy, didn’t remember how to work his own computer, and about 5 excuses for why ‘ my tank must’ve been light .’ 

Not to mention one of the dive guides needing to pay more attention than anticipated, so potentially leaving the rest of the group with a little less support, temporarily.  

Really?  We’re all in this together, to have fun. 

Please take the time to refresh your skills! The diving in Cozumel is awesome, but this is a fun, cool, AND potentially risky sport.  Please respect the ocean and your fellow divers – and your own health – and do the right thing. 

And again: please please please make sure your DAN diving insurance and travel insurance is active and up to date , or use this link to join up now. Every dive instructor (and good diver) I’ve ever met agrees that it’s the most important piece of safety equipment in your dive bag.

For more on DAN and other dive safety gear you should pack, read this post next.

4. Do Venture out in Cozumel; Don’t Be an Obnoxious Jerk

Lots of Tripadvisor reviews or cruise-centric advice on Cozumel safety will tell you not to venture off the main drag in town, Rafaél Melgar Avenue.  

Melgar (or “the malecón) runs the length of Cozumel’s town areas and is a great place for shopping, strolling, people watching , and finding your way around town.  

Cozumel’s malecón stretches right along the waterfront, too, so whether you’re there to catch the Ferry to Playa del Carmen , go to one of many great bars and restaurants, or to shop ’til you drop, it’s a lovely place to be and to check out the heart of Cozumel. 

But that means it’s also the most touristy street in town, where you might be badgered into buying souvenirs – and paying more for the pleasure.  Cozumel has loads of cool stores and boutiques and restaurants just a few blocks further in from the waterfront, without the hassle and the high prices. 

Don’t misunderstand me, here.  I’m not against Melgar, at all. It’s fun, and some of our absolute favorite places are on Melgar Avenue!  Like the Museum of the Island , and Le Chef’s famous lobster sandwich ! 

• If you’re new here, read m ore about things to do in Cozumel on our other posts, like this A-Z Guide to Kid-Friendly Cozumel , or maybe our Cozumel Best Restaurants Guide .

Sometimes, though, the implication in those guide books and tourism forums is that if you go any further off the main drag and into town, you’ll be taking a big, scary risk. 

Instead, you’ll be following the paths of many, many residents and repeat customers to our other favorite services, awesome local restaurants , galleries, and shops that Cozumel has to offer . 

Just don’t be a jerk and assume someone’s out to get you. Be friendly and open, and you’ll likely come home with charming memories and new friends – not just that cool t-shirt! 

5. Cozumel Commands the Right Reef-Safe Sun Protection

Take it from me, the sun here is strong.  It’s a big factor in personal Cozumel safety.

You don’t have to look for the sun in Cozumel. Don’t worry, it will find you. 

Ideally, you will always have a hat, polarized sunglasses , and some type of physical cover – like my favorite: this light camp shirt that dries fast and keeps you cool and sunburn-free (and can also serve double-duty as a great warmer layer on the plane or in a chilly air-conditioned restaurant). 

I pack a shirt like this on every dive trip, and stash one in my bag or car everyday when I’m in Cozumel.

Help Cozumel by Using Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a tricky topic these days, but it doesn’t have to be if you understand a couple of basics on what makes sunscreen safe for the coral reefs that we’re so proud of (and reliant on). 

Mainly, you should shop for a sun lotion that uses physical (mineral) sunblock elements. 

Look for non-aerosol lotions that use non-nano zinc oxide and/or non-nano titanium oxide as the sun-blocking agents.  (the “non-nano” means that the particles are not too small, which could be too easily absorbed, and detrimental to your body) 

As opposed to “chemical” blocks, such as Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.  These are bad for the coral, the other marine life, and your body. 

Some of this information is still being developed and can seem to change. 

Don’t give up, don’t get mad, just try to keep an eye out and use the zinc or titanium versions.  But most importantly, really try to use physical blocks first – like fabric, hats, polarized sunglasses , actual shade, and avoiding the strongest sun rays whenever you can, to begin with.  

To make it really easy, use this affiliate link for the Stream2Sea family of sunscreens, hair, and body products , and you’ll be using and supporting the current industry leader in reef-safe products for beachgoers, scuba divers, and surfers – and anyone who needs protection from the sun’s damaging rays.

Save 10% - use discount code "COZINFO" at checkout!

Their website, found at the link just above, also provides a lot of helpful information about reef-safe standards, and their study and commitment to the issues.  

They even have this great new reef-safe hand-sanitizer, for post-Covid 19 travel needs . 

Please note: If you’re going diving, the Cozumel National Marine Park does not allow sunscreens while actively diving.  So please use your camp shirts , hats, shades, etc. to the extent possible.  Then, when finished diving or hanging out at the beach or in town, use the reef-safe products to keep yourself safe, and the reef safe from more bleaching and stony coral disease. 

6. Stay Dry and Keep Your Stuff Safe with Some Rain Gear

It rains here in the tropics, but usually only once in a while. The showers come in quickly, and leave just as fast.

Rain won’t ruin your vacation, but getting caught in a soaking rain could put your cell phone and other valuables at some risk.

Plus, if you spend a day out on a boat for scuba diving or snorkeling, you’re going to want the right bags and gear to keep you and your stuff nice and dry. When you’re not in that beautiful water swimming, that is.

We have a whole post on recommended rainy day gear to pack for Cozumel right here – check it out if you need Cozumel packing tips.

But for starters, at least pack one of these essential rain jackets with you to stay protected from Cozumel’s occasional strong rains. And go read the full rainy-day packing list if you don’t already own some waterproof bags and footwear.

You never know!

• One size fits all (adults)
• Wear over any outfit
• Double duty as tarp or rainfly; versatile
• Easy to pack

7. Travel Insurance for True Cozumel Safety

Cozumel is a really safe vacation destination, but these mishaps sometimes get us in trouble.

To truly stay safe, the best thing you can do is invest in travel insurance for this trip, and any other trip you take.

I’m a diver, so my DAN Insurance for travel and diving is one of my essential annual expenses (though very economical, hovering around $100/year, maybe less.

However, DAN dive insurance won’t typically cover things like flight cancellations, illness disruptions, etc.

Be sure to consider getting the flight insurance from your airline, or better yet, buy an individual trip insurance policy from an independent company, like Travelex.

Travelex is one of Consumer Affairs top-3 travel insurance companies , and provides comprehensive trip insurance for things like trip delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies while away from home. Read all their terms via the link below. If not them, find another very highly rated insurance company to protect your investment.

Consumer Affairs' Top-3 Travel Insurance program.

• Free quotes
• Accredited by Better Business Bureau (US)
• Various levels of coverage, per need
• Not for Diving!
• For SCUBA diving coverage, read more about DAN insurance

EVEN MORE Cozumel Safety Tips – Additional Reading:

• Read this post next, if you need some tips on staying safe while snorkeling in Cozumel .
• Then check out this post for some additional tips on the easiest way to get around the island safely .
• Then read on a common-sense way to stay just that much safer when scuba diving .
• And finally to get the real info on whether or not you can safely drink the water in Cozumel .

And attention thrifty travelers! To get even more bang for your buck, read this related article on high-impact budget tips for Cozumel, next .

CozInfo’s Cozumel Packing Essentials:

Rachel plugs away at cozinfo.com when she's not taking underwater photos, trying a new local restaurant, or teaching ESL. After a career working on some mighty fine design projects in NYC, she took a gap year to pursue her divemaster training in Cozumel...and hasn't quite made it back, yet.

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Is Cancun Safe to Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: April 8, 2024

We have been to Cancun many times over the years, and one of the main questions that we always get is, “Is Cancun safe?” Truthfully, the situation has always been fluid, and while we have personally felt safe in Cancun, it is important to check your government website warnings, follow basic safety precautions, and be aware of your surroundings. Mexico takes its tourism seriously and they want international visitors to continue to spend their dollars, so they are working hard to keep Cancun safe, especially in the tourist zones and the tourist hotspots.

Table of Contents

Is Cancun Safe to Visit?

As of March 2024, the US State Department updated its travel warnings for Quintana Roo, which is home to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. It removed the warning about an increased risk of kidnapping, but the country is still under a level 2 advisory.

As of March 2024, the Government of Canada notes that the region of Cancun has high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking, and assaults.

Cancun’s Current Safety Situation

Cancun is located in the State of Quintana Roo, including Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, and the Riviera Maya. These areas bring in a lot of dollars into Mexico, and this is certainly one of the safer areas in the country, especially compared to other states. If you follow these tips and do your own research, you will find that you will feel a lot safer on your next trip should you choose to travel to Cancun.

Short Summary

Cancun’s security has been under a microscope due to incidents of criminal activity involving tourists. The Mexican government has taken great action to ensure the safety of visitors and citizens in Cancun. According to the US State Department, the Yucatan Peninsula is the safest region in Mexico for Americans in 2024. However, the State Department does have a travel advisory of “ exercise increased caution ” in the state of Quintana Roo.

• Cancun is generally safe for travelers but take necessary precautions and take government website travel alerts into consideration.
• Follow safety tips like avoiding walking alone at night and sticking to well-known establishments.
• When traveling in Cancun, familiarize yourself with local laws, use reputable transportation services, and opt for filtered water!

Mexico Travel Advisories

For the latest advisory warnings, visit th e US State Department’s Website . Right now, the State Department website warns that ” Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico.” However, when you read further, it states, “Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To the Yucatan State.

**Update**: On February 27, 2024, the U.S. Embassy & Consulates In Mexico Department issued a warning for all U.S. travelers visiting Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean for Spring Break Travel in 2024. Only Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum were mentioned in the warning. You can check out the full message here and what they suggest.

Canada currently has a warning of “High rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking, and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum), and Acapulco.” It states that drug cartels have a presence in tourist areas. There has been intergang fighting at establishments frequented by tourists where innocent bystanders have been killed or injured.

Incidents like this can happen in any large city or tourist destination. To put things into perspective, Cancun currently has a crime index of 56.33. When you look at the crime rate in New Orleans, Cancun is much lower than the rating of 67.92. See the comparison here.

Crime Rates in Cancun

Cancun has a crime rate that is similar to many major cities in the United States, most of which revolve around drug-trafficking turf wars and gang-related violence. Tourists are rarely the target, and if you keep yourself out of trouble. Avoid buying drugs, don’t stay out until the wee hours of the morning, and limit your alcohol consumption off the resort. By following common sense safety measures, you can lower your chances of any incident.

Compared to other Mexican cities, Cancun’s crime rate remains relatively low, meaning vacationers shouldn’t be too concerned about any crimes during their visit. However, they should still exercise a degree of caution.

Mexican Government’s Efforts

The Mexican government has increased security around Cancun International Airport by dispatching extra police forces and protection systems, in order to put a stop to petty crime that mainly targets travelers.

The Mexican government has taken extra security steps to protect Cancun’s standing as a favored tourist spot. These include a greater police presence at popular tourist areas such as resorts within the Hotel Zone , surveillance cameras, and gated entrances for visitors.

Initiatives were also undertaken to reduce corruption among law enforcement in this area, which resulted in the removal of numerous police officers from their posts and several top-level personnel from office due to misconduct. You can read about it here .

Collaboration between local companies and tourism workers also supports a safer atmosphere. Extra tourist police, state police, the National Guard, and even the Navy patrol the beaches.

The Hotel Zone

Staying within the Hotel Zone Cancun is one of the safest areas to stay in Cancun. Police patrols, surveillance cameras, and gated resorts all provide an extra layer of security for guests staying at the numerous high-end accommodations in this area. That doesn’t mean you should let your guard down, but we still recommend that you avoid walking alone at night or in secluded areas.

Cancun is a popular destination for Spring Break, and the kids love to party the nights away in the clubs of Playa del Carmen or Downtown Cancun. Our advice is to party responsibly. If you decide to go downtown Cancun to party for the night, exercise increased caution if you are going to local bars, stay in groups, don’t overdrink, and make sure to use an authorized taxi. It is when you drink too much and let your guard down that you become a target.

Best Practices for Staying Safe in Cancun

When vacationing in Cancun, it is important to remember that even though you are enjoying a vacation in popular tourist destinations, that doesn’t mean you let all common sense go out the window. A lot of people tend to think they are invincible on vacation, but this is when things can go wrong. Visitors to Cancun can have a great experience if they use common sense and exercise safety precautions. When visiting Quintana Roo or any other Mexican State, keep a few things in mind.

Cancun Airport Safety

Landing at the airport can be one of your most vulnerable times. The arrivals area is crowded and confusing, which makes it easy to fall victim to a travel scam. We recommend that you exercise caution and think before you accept any rides, offers, or help from a “good Samaritan.” Despite its relatively low rate of violent offenses, visitors entering through Cancun airport can still fall victim to potential scams such as fake taxi drivers and pickpocketing in crowded locations.

Our safety advice for landing at the airport is to a private transfer in advanc e to your hotel, keep an eye on your valuables, and don’t leave anything unattended. If you need cash, go directly to the ATM, but we suggest bringing American dollars and small bills with you.

Transportation Safety

There are many different ways to get around Cancun. If you want more freedom, we recommend renting a car. We have also taken local transportation without incident. However, if you want to have added safety, booking an organized tour is a good option. You can book a night out bar hopping with a local guide, city tours with a guide, and excursions with a guide, making it safer to travel.

Taxis and Ridesharing Services

Travelers in Cancun can enjoy secure and reliable transportation options by utilizing authorized taxis or reliable apps like Uber. When getting into a cab, make sure to ask them to put on the meter. Also, plan your route beforehand, and be aware of the approximate costs before setting off so as not to be scammed.

Ridesharing services such as Uber are available in Cancun. But use caution as there have been reports of violence between taxi drivers and Uber drivers due to contract disputes. . If you are staying in a resort, we recommend using the taxi drivers with whom they have a contract; otherwise, you will have to go off the resort to book an Uber.

Buses and Public Transportation

Cancun’s buses and public transportation are typically reliable, inexpensive, and easy to access for anyone looking to discover the city. Public transportation is generally safe, but it is better not to ride it alone or late at night.

Rental Cars and Driving Tips

Using a rental car in Cancun can be an ideal way to enjoy the sights and attractions at your own pace. Make sure to book with trusted car hire agencies; we use RentalCars.com. You will have to get additional insurance Third Party Liability and Public Liability Insurance are mandatory. And make sure you avoid being on the roads after dark.

By observing these tips, people will reap all the benefits associated with renting cars while feeling safe traveling through Cancun’s streets and reveling in views of its glorious bright blue Caribbean Sea.

Food and Drink Safety in Cancun

Food is generally safe to eat in Mexico, especially in popular destinations. We generally avoid eating raw foods unless they are cooked or can be peeled. When eating at restaurants, we always look for places packed with locals. This is how you know it will be fresh. Think about raw foods that would be washed in tap water. We don’t eat fruits and vegetables unless they are cooked or can be peeled.

Tap Water Safety

Visitors to Cancun should not drink unfiltered tap water, and it is recommended that they stick to bottled water. We like to use a SteriPen so that we don’t contribute to plastic and avoid ice.

Although tests may show local tap water as safe enough for drinking according to regulations, microorganisms can still be present, which could lead to health problems.

Street Food and Restaurant Precautions

We have eaten street food in Mexico, and it is delicious, but tourists should still be cautious when choosing where to eat. Don’t eat salad or vegetables that aren’t cooked, and make sure the meat is freshly cooked in front of you. You don’t want to eat something that has been sitting in the heat for hours. Select freshly prepared meals, steer clear of uncovered dishes, and go for a well-known, busy place to eat.

Health and Medical Safety in Cancun

When visiting Mexico in general we highly recommend having travel insurance. Medical emergencies can happen, and it is a small price to pay for peace of mind. You may also want to look into what medications and vaccines you need. Make sure that your routine vaccines are up to date, and you may consider additional vaccines. Hepatitis A and B are good to get, and you may want to update your tetanus. For up-to-date travel health notices in Mexico, visit the CDC website.

Mosquito-borne illnesses can also be an issue, so pack bug spray and wear lightweight long sleeves if going into the jungle. In case of a medical emergency, there are healthcare services available that tourists can access if required – adding another layer of protection on top of their Mexico travel insurance policy.

Is Cancun Dangerous for Solo Travelers?

Many people travel to Cancun as solo travelers, and it is considered generally safe to visit alone. Before traveling, solo travelers should research the area and let people know where they will be. Check-in with family and friends back home frequently by providing them with information about where you’ll be going during each part of your journey so they know your whereabouts. By adhering to these basic guidelines for security, an unforgettable trip awaits any adventurous solo traveler who decides to explore this picturesque Mexican destination.

Many of our recommendations, regardless of the destination, are to not walk alone at night or in secluded areas, so if you are traveling alone, stay in lit areas, don’t stay out too late, and stick with the crowds.

Make sure to choose a safe hotel in a good area, use trustworthy transportation services, and avoid any illegal drugs or areas with high crime. Signing up for local tours can provide additional safety as you’ll be able to go sightseeing in a group with an expert guide. Plus you’ll make friends with some other tourists.

Is Cancun Safe for a Solo Female Traveler?

Cancun is largely considered secure for solo female travelers as well. The same recommendations can be made to avoid deserted areas and walking alone at night, and take taxis. Choose safe accommodation, preferably in the hotel zone, and use common sense and take extra precautions.

Women are more vulnerable than male travelers, and a woman can catch unwanted attention. Don’t go out alone late at night, use trustworthy taxis, don’t wear expensive jewelry, and the hotel room safe for your valuables.

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season in Cancun typically runs from June through November, with the peak period occurring between August and October. Travelers considering Cancun as a destination often wonder about safety during these months. It’s important to note that while the risk of hurricanes exists, Cancun is well-prepared with robust infrastructure and comprehensive emergency plans in place to ensure visitor safety

Here’s the lowdown: yes, hurricanes can whip through, especially from August to October when things tend to peak. But, Cancun is pretty savvy when it comes to dealing with these big storms. The hotels and local officials have got it down to a science with solid buildings and tried-and-true safety plans that kick into gear when needed.

Plus, with all the advanced weather tech these days, everyone gets a heads-up well before a storm hits. So, while it’s smart to keep an eye on the weather, Cancun remains a fab spot for a beach vacation, even during the stormy months. Chill vibes and safety can totally go hand in hand here!

The Mexican Peso is the official currency of Cancun and Mexico, but establishments readily accept US dollar. Hotel ATMs often dispense US dollar currency over Mexican Pesos.

When withdrawing cash, try to use ATMs in secure locations like inside a bank or a busy mall, rather than those on the street, to keep things extra safe. And hey, while it’s tempting to carry a wad of cash to avoid transaction fees, it’s smarter to keep just enough cash for the day and use your credit card when you can. Credit cards are widely accepted and give you that extra layer of fraud protection. By keeping these practical tips in mind, you’ll make sure your financial dealings in Cancun are as smooth as the local tequila.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cancun safe right now 2024?

The US State Department notes that Cancun has friendly locals and is one of the safest areas in Mexico, with a low crime rate. So you can have an amazing experience by planning your getaway to this destination come 2024! Relax, knowing you will be safe during your stay here. Making it absolutely unforgettable.

How safe is Cancun for American tourists?

The US State Department has assessed Cancun as one of the safest places to visit in Mexico, and thus, it is Safe for tourists making a trip there in 2024. To ensure you enjoy your time while still staying secure, practice caution with regard to where you go and who you talk to, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Is Cancun safe to walk around?

When visiting Cancun, travelers should always take precautions to remain safe. The Hotel Zone, in particular, offers a secure atmosphere with numerous all-inclusive resorts, international hotels, and beaches for visitors to enjoy without fear of crime rates that are low outside the hotel zone.

Overall it is possible to have an unforgettable trip when exercising caution and keeping safety measures at hand during your time here, which will result in a rewarding experience.

Is Cancun safe at an all-inclusive?

When it comes to booking an all-inclusive holiday in Cancun, you can be confident that the resort is secure. Most properties have measures such as security guards with firearms to make sure visitors feel safe during their stay.

With some planning and investigation beforehand, travelers will be able to enjoy a stress-free break away from home in one of Mexico’s picturesque cities.

Is it still safe to travel to Cancun right now?

With care and knowledge of local customs, Cancun is an excellent, relatively secure destination for travelers. Hence, caution and respect should be exercised to make sure a safe journey is had while visiting the area.

Stick to the Most Popular Tourist Destinations

When you’re planning a trip to Mexico and wondering about safety, it’s handy to know which spots are a bit spicier when it comes to risk. Some areas, particularly along certain parts of the northern border and specific regions like parts of Guerrero, have a bit more heat due to higher crime rates and travel advisories. Cities like Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez often make headlines, urging travelers to stay street-smart and keep up with travel advisories.

Some regions, like Colima, Guerrero, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Michoacán, and Sinaloa, tend to be hotter on the risk radar due to higher crime rates and consistent travel advisories. While these areas can have their share of challenges, don’t let that put a damper on your whole itinerary.

Mexico is a vast country with safe and serene destinations in the most popular tourist destinations and off the beaten path far from the troubled spots. By staying sharp and keeping up with the latest travel advisories, you can navigate your way to a smooth and secure Mexican adventure. Remember, a little prep and awareness go a long way in making sure your vacation vibes remain as calm as a seaside sunset!

Our Safety Recommendations For Cancun

Cancun is an attractive tourist destination to visit, offering a secure holiday when the appropriate steps and precautions are taken. Staying up-to-date on safety updates, bearing in mind some basic security tips, staying up to date on current Mexico travel warnings, and keeping any dangers that may arise at bay will enable travelers to enjoy Cancun fully without worry.

So get ready for your trip by packing all you need (including sunscreen) for what promises to be an unforgettable experience – complete with sand, sunshine, and of course memories galore!

Plan Your Next Trip to Cancun with These Resources

• Mexico City: Best Things to Do in Mexico City for an Epic Trip
• Cancun: 21 Amazing Things To Do In Cancun
• Cancun: Where To Stay In Cancun: Best Hotels And Areas For Every Budget
• Playa Del Carmen: 29 of Best Things to do in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• Yucatan Peninsula: 23 Amazing Things To Do In Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
• Tulum: 23 Best Things To Do In Tulum
• Puerto Vallarta:
• 23 Best Beaches In Mexico
• Best Mexican Dishes: 27 Most Popular Mexican Foods

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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1 thought on “Is Cancun Safe to Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips”

We just got back and Cancun is extremely safe. We didn’t stay in resorts but three different locations and took local buses and walked around at night and at no time did we feel even the slightest concern about our safety or security. Using common sense travel, having a reasonable control of your faculties and not engaging in extremely risky behavior with strangers keeps any risk low. Mexican people are hard working, friendly and helpful.

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Destination Intel: Is It Safe to Travel to Cozumel?

See recent posts by Krystin Arneson

Cozumel is one of Mexico’s most popular destinations for tourists, particularly with the cruise set: More than half of all of the country’s cruise arrivals docked in Cozumel in 2018. Like many other areas of Mexico, Cozumel is a relatively safe destination for tourists to visit. While the COVID-19 outbreak is currently making it unsafe to travel anywhere, Cozumel has previously received the same U.S. Department of State threat-level ranking as countries including Japan and the Netherlands. Violent crime is low, however, there have been reports of tourists drinking tainted alcohol at all-inclusive resorts, and there were two incidents involving explosives on tourist ferries in 2018. Is it safe to visit Cozumel? Read on. 

Never been to Cozumel? Here are 11 things every traveler should know before visiting Cozumel . 

Cozumel Safety: An Overview

Beyond the global travel advisory in light of COVID-19, U.S. State Department has issued the country of Mexico a Level Two warning , last updated in December of 2019. This level advises tourists to “exercise increased caution.” The state Cozumel is in, Quintana Roo, is also under a Level Two warning. The U.S. Department of State specifically mentions criminal activity and violence in areas frequented by tourists as a concern. This violence is usually targeted and not directed at random passer-by or tourists, though bystanders have been injured. There are no U.S. State Department restrictions beyond those for COVID-19 on travel to Cozumel specifically nor for specific areas on the island.

Cozumel is a largely undeveloped island, and its urban center, San Miguel de Cozumel, is the only urban zone on the island. The downtown is quite safe (especially during the day), and there are no large areas where it’s generally considered unsafe for tourists to venture. A good rule of thumb in Cozumel is that if there are families around, it’s probably a relatively safe area. 

Cozumel Safety: Common Types of Crime

While there are no urgent safety issues in Cozumel, it’s always good to exercise safety precautions. According to the U.S. Department of State , criminal activity and violence do take place in the state, though the attacks are usually targeted and not aimed at general crowds or tourists. The UK’s foreign travel office also mentions that the Mexican government consciously steps up protection for major tourist destinations including Cozumel and that drug-related crime and violence there is less prevalent there than in other areas of Mexico. 

Do keep an eye out for scams surrounding supposedly “free” tours. Only purchase tours from legitimate outlets. Also be wary of buying items from street vendors with deals too good to be true, especially pertaining to jewelry with supposedly authentic jewels or gemstones. Vendors near the piers, where the cruise ships unload, are overpriced compared to shops in town. 

In 2018 there were two incidents involving explosives on tourist ferries operating out of Cozumel. The first detonated and injured 26 people, including U.S. and Canadian nationals. The Zetas cartel claimed responsibility for it. The second bomb was found by law enforcement on a different ferry operated by the same firm, though that particular boat wasn’t in operation.  

Cozumel Safety: Tips for Staying Safe

Common-sense precautions are the name of the game when it comes to staying safe in Cozumel . The main town on the island, San Miguel de Cozumel, generally has low crime rates, though the island has special tourist police who speak English and are available to help visitors. It’s also important to understand that much of the violence in Mexico has more to do with cartels than tourists, and it takes place mostly in the border regions. Risks of violent crime like mugging is low in Cozumel, though it would be a smart idea to leave your best jewelry and watches at home anytime you travel. However, avoiding isolated areas, like beaches and empty streets, at night is always good practice when it comes to staying safe. 

Cozumel is a major tourist area, so like in any other similar place, keep an eye out for pickpockets and petty theft. Consider traveling with an anti-theft purse or backpack, and keep them close to you at all times when you’re out and about. Don’t display a large amount of cash when you’re making a purchase at a store or paying a restaurant bill. Storing valuables like phones and laptops in your hotel safe is also a good idea no matter where you are. 

Taxis in Cozumel are generally very safe and have set rates. Taxi drivers carry a laminated rate card with fees set by the local taxi union. The cards list rates for both within and between zones, as well as hourly rates, special trips to beach areas like Chen Rio , and fees for waiting time. To avoid any trouble, or to avoid being scammed with your fare, only use taxis from registered taxi stands called sitios . Do not flag a taxi down on the street. Also, avoid renting a moped on the island, especially if you’re new to driving one. 

At the beach, keep an eye on color-coded flags (red means don’t swim) that indicate whether it’s safe to swim or not, and take that advice seriously.  If you’re on a beach with lifeguards, always pay attention to their warnings and instructions. Undertows are very strong in Cozumel and can be dangerous. 

Cozumel is surrounded by 25 coral reef formations, which contribute to the island’s reputation for excellent diving and snorkeling. However, they also pose a little danger: Coral reef is extremely sharp if you step on it with bare feet. It’s a good idea to bring a pair of water shoes for swimming and wading out in the water. If you go in for a swim, don’t leave your belongings on the beach unattended. 

Cozumel Safety: Choosing a Hotel

Tourist hotspots in Quintana Roo generally offer a range of resorts and hotels that are safe places to stay. However, in 2017 there were widespread reports about tainted drinks at upscale, all-inclusive resorts in Cozumel as well as in Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Tourists reported blacking out after drinking moderate amounts of alcohol, including quantities as little as a single drink. Some were sexually assaulted or robbed during this lapse in consciousness. While the spiking appears to have been random, and the Mexican government pledged to take action, reports continued through 2018 .  

In 2019, the U.S. State Department took steps to address the tainted-alcohol complaints by asking Mexico’s health inspection department to check bars, hotels, and restaurants. Two establishments were shut down. As of March 2020, the U.S. State Department has not issued a current warning or travel directive for Quintana Roo referring to these events, but it is a good idea to keep an eye on your drink as it’s being made and to be wary of accepting drinks from strangers or anyone who is overly social. If your cocktail tastes off, do not continue drinking it. If you feel exacerbated symptoms of drunkenness for the amount of drinks you had — think dizziness, nausea, and confusion — inform staff you might have had tainted alcohol and seek medical attention. Consider bringing your own alcohol in from duty-free at the airport, and be sure to check the seals on the alcohol in your hotel room mini-bar. Keep in mind, however, that tainted alcohol is not just a problem in Quintana Roo or Mexico — incidents have occurred all over the world. Most hotels in Cozumel and the larger area are perfectly safe and incident-free, just be sure to read recent reviews and do due diligence when you’re researching your hotel or resort stay. 

It’s worth researching whether the resorts you have in mind have their own water purification system, as it’s not safe to drink the tap water anywhere on Cozumel. Use bottled water to hydrate, wash fruit, and brush your teeth to avoid gastrointestinal issues. Most restaurants also prepare meals using purified water instead of tap water, but if you’re concerned, confirm this with your server. 

If you’re planning a trip during the June to October season when storms are prevalent, consider a resort or hotel that offers “hurricane guarantees” or “hurricane policies.” These usually apply once the U.S. National Weather Service has declared a hurricane warning. 

In the event of inclement weather like hurricanes or tropical storms before or during the trip, the policies help to protect guests who have put down money for reservations by offering credits for a rebooked stay, penalty-free refunds. Many accommodations also have hurricane shutters, which help protect belongings in the event that guests are unable to depart due to airport or port closures before a storm lands. However, each hotel and resort make their own policies, so don’t assume anything and double-check yours before finalizing your reservation. 

Cozumel Safety: COVID-19 

Because of the developing nature of the COVID-19 outbreak, it’s best to do research for up-to-date information for the latest Cozumel COVID-19 updates and warnings. However, it is currently not safe to travel anywhere: Even if you do not display symptoms, you could be an unsuspecting carrier of the virus. 

As of March 25, there were 27 positive cases of COVID-19 in the state of Quintana Roo. The vast majority were in Benito Juarez, and no suspected cases at the time of publishing have been tested positive in Cozumel. However, the amount of infected cases with this virus grows exponentially, so numbers can change dramatically each day. Low rates in an area do not necessarily mean it is low-risk to visit.

As of late March, Governor Carlos Joaquín has still not imposed limitations on free transit in the state due to COVID-19. Some cities in the region are asking people to self-isolate by staying at home and encouraged them to practice social distancing. 

After the initial outbreak and period of self-isolation, also keep in mind that it’s possible that there will be smaller repeat outbreaks — especially once travel restrictions are lifted, and tourists carrying the virus begin to return to the area. If you are symptomatic, it is imperative that you do not travel to Cozumel, and that you self-isolate for two weeks even if hospitalization is not needed. 

Cozumel Safety: Natural Disasters 

Cozumel’s high season runs from March to June, which is when tourism numbers peak. However, hurricane season along both of Mexico’s coasts and nearby islands begins in summer and early fall, lasting from as early as June through the end of November, and with an increased chance of hurricanes in August and October. 

Cozumel has seen its share of devastating hurricanes, so it’s best to avoid planning your vacation to the area during that time. October 2005’s Hurricane Wilma was one of the most destructive to hit Cozumel and the most intense tropical cyclone ever recorded in the Atlantic basin. The storm reached wind speeds up to 175 miles an hour, necessitated the evacuation of thousands, took down even hurricane-reinforced buildings.

Even if there’s no storm gathering, the seasonal rains can also thwart plans for a day on the beach. A good website to monitor storm activity is the U.S. National Hurricane Center .

Keep in mind while considering your travel plans that destruction from hurricanes and tropical storms can occur hundreds of miles away and severely disrupt essential services, including electricity and travel by land or air. Official warnings and recommendations to leave the area should be heeded. 

It is always a good idea to book travel insurance when you are planning a trip, but some hotels also offer a hurricane policy. If you have a flight scheduled during that season and warnings appear close to your departure date, consider canceling the trip versus running the risk of being stuck should a storm blow in. 

Our Cozumel Hotel Pick: Secrets Aura Cozumel

Secrets Aura Cozumel is the most expansive all-inclusive upscale property in Cozumel, and it has all of the trimmings for adult-only fun. There are a private sand beach, swimming pools with swim-up bars and waterslides, and a relaxing spa. Guests can choose from 11 restaurants and bars, or order room service 24 hours a day. All of the 238 rooms are suites, the best of which are in the Preferred section of the hotel. Hello, ocean views!

Pricing for Secrets Aura Cozumel

You’ll Also Like

• 11 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Cozumel
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• Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cozumel

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