Find the Best Things to Do in Cozumel
By Kristin Busse
Cancún Local Expert
About Cozumel
Photo courtesy of Roger Wollstadt Flickr
Cozumel is nothing short of a tropical paradise. The Mexican island, located of the coast of Playa del Carmen, boasts ancient Mayan history, incomprable scuba diving, gorgeous beaches, countless activities and attractions, shopping and dining, and is a popular cruise ship port.
See & Do
Cozumel is a cruise ship passenger's dream. Spend the day at a relaxing beach club sipping on margaritas, or snorkel the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System just off shore. You can get a one time certification in just a few hours. Feel like exploring? Rent a scooter or a jeep and drive alone the costal highway and stop at the Mayan ruins or an eco-park.
Eat
Cozumel is home to a range of delicious restaurants, all with their own charm and personality. If you're looking for the hottest tourist spots, try Senor Frogs or the Hard Rock Cafe. There are plenty of low key family-owned options as well that serve anything from Mexican to Italian to Argentinan cuisine.
Party
Cozumel heats up at night, and on any given evening you'll find a good mix of locals, expats and tourists in the many bars and clubs. Oldies but goodies like Carlos 'n Charlie's and Margaritaville are always fun, but there are also many other local spots that offer live music, exceptional ambiance and fun extras like Salsa lessons.
Stay
You'll find smaller versions of your favorite hotel chains on Cozumel, like Melia, Iberostar, Secrets and the Park Royal. You'll also find quaint, privately-owned hotels with a spectacular view of the Caribbean on the main drag Rafael Melgar or on the costal highway. In addition, very economical hostels are available in downtown San Miguel.
Shop
There's no shortage of shopping on Cozumel, you'll find the usual t-shirts, key chains and lucha libre masks, but you'll also find unique, handmade crafts, jewelry and even chocolate. Fashionable chicas will love the funky Ou La La Boutique. Cozumel is home to Pama, one of the few legitimate Duty Free Department Stores in the Caribbean that’s not located in an airport.