Best Things to do in Cozumel, Mexico
The island is famous for its clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and white sand beaches. It’s the perfect place to soak up the sun while enjoying all the fun activities Mexico has to offer. Cozumel, Mexico, is a popular vacation destination for travelers on its own, but it’s also a common cruise ship destination.
Location
Cozumel is the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean, stretching 48 km (30 miles) long, 16 km (10 miles) wide, and covering an area of 477 km2 (183 sq mi). Isla Cozumel sits off the tip of the peninsula, near Playa del Carmen.
What to do
Speaking of diving, most travelers head to Cozumel to see incredible marine life along its shallow coral reefs, since it’s one of the best dive sites in the world.
While scuba diving is one of the main draws to Cozumel, visitors can soak up the local culture in plenty of other ways. For those who want to go exploring, rent a car and cruise through the natural parks, mangroves, and jungle. Swim in the crystal-clear waters found in this part of the Caribbean Sea or relax on the beach.
Head deep into the jungle to visit the sacred Mayan site of San Gervasio, taste your way through the Mayan cuisine. Be sure to try the Lionfish! The coral reefs of Cozumel are home to this species and local restaurants often serve it on their menu.
If you like to shop–you could spend several days working your way through the combination of upscale and funky shops in Cozumel`s downtown tourist district, here it has everything from high-toned waterfront jewelry stores to little holes in the wall crammed with hand-painted batik hangings, carved wood crafts and paper animals.
Another spot to wander into and pick up some souvenirs to take home is Plaza del Sol. Look for the sunshine-yellow buildings housing a variety of shops like a tiny marketplace. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a nice place to walk around.
Just approximately one kilometer from the coast of the island is “El Cielo” and can only be reached by boat. It is considered a starfish sanctuary and is one of the most spectacular places in the entire Caribbean.
The depth of the water varies in some places but in general it is approximately waist high (3-4 ft.), although there are other places where it reaches a few meters.
In addition to observing an entire colony of starfish, you can also see sea turtles and manta rays swimming in crystal clear waters.
The water is crystal clear and very shallow, so it’s ideal for swimming and wading. There are also plenty of beach umbrellas and loungers where you can soak up the sun or relax in the shade and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation after your underwater adventures.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is so much to do in Cozumel! We hope that you have a great trip and enjoy all that the island has to offer. Whether you decide to spend your time here lounging on the beach, exploring the island, or scuba diving in the crystal clear waters, you’re sure to have an incredible time. From adventure, relaxation, or something in between, there’s something for everyone here.
