Are you thinking about visiting Cozumel, Mexico? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Cozumel worth visiting?
This island is a good place to visit for three to seven days. During our first trip to Cozumel in the spring of 2013, we fell in love with beautiful beaches and wonderful water activities, as well as the fun animal encounters. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Cozumel is a popular tourist destination that has a busy cruise ship port and a vibrant town. Many people visit for the world class snorkeling and scuba diving, but there's also shopping and cultural sights. You can also see dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.
Cozumel, Mexico
Reasons to Visit Cozumel
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.
Beaches
The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.
Nightlife
The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.
Resorts
There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.
Shopping
For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.
Museums
Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.
Food
You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.
The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Cozumel might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Cozumel here or see if Cozumel is expensive here.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Cozumel
Lots of Tourists
Cozumel sees a high number of visitors every year, which means you might have to wait in line and deal with large crowds during your visit.
Related
What is Cozumel most famous for?
Cozumel is most famous for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. People visit this impressive island for its great scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. It is also known for its great nightlife, resorts, and shopping. And many visitors also come to this island for its museums and food. It is often described as colorful, scenic, lively, vibrant, and active.
What is the most famous sight in Cozumel?
The most popular sight in Cozumel is Palancar Reef. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Cozumel on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Palancar Reef and other attractions here.
How touristy is Cozumel? Is it a popular island to visit?
Cozumel is a very touristy island that attracts travelers from around the globe. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Cozumel National Park and Beach Break: Private Tour: $133
- Tours On The Island Cozumel: $95
- Tours along the beaches of Cozumel Mexico by buggy all inclusive: $95
- Try diving without prior experience: $121
- Island Tour With Private Driver: $56
- Private Tacos and Bar Hop Tour in Cozumel: $127
- Cozumel Buggy Island Tours - Clear Boat: $94
- Private Restorative and Therapeutic Yoga Experience in Cozumel: $90
How long should I spend in Cozumel?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Cozumel is at least three or as many as seven days. Since Cozumel has a variety of activities such as scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Cozumel?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Cozumel?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Cozumel?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.