Make your trip smooth and stress-free by learning from my adventures!
Who usually travels to Cozumel?
Cozumel, Mexico, attracts a diverse range of travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Cozumel’s one side is filled with resorts and hostels, while the other half is a beautiful natural paradise. Most resorts have a private beach, but If you’re staying in a hostel, you’ll find plenty of beaches to relax on the quieter side of the island. This half of Cozumel is breathtaking, with the ocean’s waves creating a soothing soundtrack all around you. There aren’t many restaurants on this side—just two or three—but you’ll discover plenty of small vendors selling snacks and refreshing beverages. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature! Beware of Iguanas, they are EVERYWHERE on the beaches!
Additionally, Scuba divers and snorkelers are attracted to Cozumel’s vibrant coral reefs, which are full of colorful marine life. Those interested in culture can explore ancient Mayan ruins and dive into local traditions. Food lovers can treat themselves to authentic Mexican cuisine, enjoying fresh seafood and delicious street tacos. Honeymooners will discover romantic spots perfect for sunset views, but not really a spot to have fancy or cozy dinners. Additionally, this island is extreme safe for solo and female travelers.
Cozumel (CZM) airport to city:
When you land at the airport, you’ll spot plenty of cabs ready to whisk you away to the bustling area filled with resorts and hostels. But here’s a tip: if you’re traveling on a budget, walk a little further past the airport to find cabs that charge way less than the ones waiting right outside. Trust me, it’s worth the extra steps to save some cash!
Also, if you’re staying at a resort, check with them ahead of time—many offer airport pickup services, which can be super convenient. A quick chat before your trip could save you time and money.
Top attractions and activities in Cozumel:
Here are some places I’ve visited on my 2 day trip to the island. If you love sunbathing, check out more beaches online—there are so many amazing spots to explore around the island!
Cozumel Pearl Farm:
The Cozumel Pearl Farm is a hidden gem offering a unique and educational experience about pearl cultivation. The farm is located on a remote part of the island and provides guided tours. Visitors can learn about the fascinating process of pearl farming. This includes everything from oyster seeding to harvesting.
To get there, you’ll need to take a boat tour, as the farm is only accessible by water. Many tours include transportation, making it a seamless adventure. Booking reservations is easy—visit their official website or check platforms like TripAdvisor for reviews and direct links to book. You need to book in advance, as spots fill up quickly due to the farm’s intimate and personalized experience. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity while enjoying the natural beauty of Cozumel!
Isla de La Pasion:
This is a small private island which is tranquil paradise surrounded by pristine beaches and lush greenery. Getting to Isla de la Pasión is part of the adventure! Since the island is only accessible by water, you’ll hop on a boat tour from Cozumel. Plenty of local tour operators and resorts offer convenient packages that include transportation, usually leaving from the northern part of the island. Just a heads-up—you’ll want to grab tickets or book your tour ahead of time to secure your spot, as they keep visits limited to preserve the island’s peaceful vibe.
Punta Sur Eco Beach Park (for Diving and Snorkeling):
Activities:
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Explore vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. The park has designated snorkeling areas perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. You can go to any nearby dive centers to book your slot on their next dive trip.
- Lagoon Boat Tour: Take a guided boat ride through the Colombia Lagoon to spot crocodiles, exotic birds, and other wildlife.
- Kayaking & Paddle boarding: Rent equipment and explore the tranquil waters at your own pace.
- Be mindful of crocodiles in the lagoon.
Ride/ Drive around the island:
Getting around Cozumel is an adventure in itself! It takes about solid 2-3 hours to ride/drive around the whole island and I would totally recommend it!
You’ve got a few options to venture the island. Rent a moped (scooter), motorcycle, or car to explore the island at your own pace. You can also take a cab, but I wouldn’t recommend cabs since they can be pretty pricey. When I visited, Uber and Lyft weren’t available. It’s best to rent a vehicle. Alternatively, negotiate with cab drivers.
I personally rented a scooter, and it was such a fun way to see the island! Just make sure to test the scooter before you rent it. You can find these rental shops on the busiest part of the island. Don’t forget to snap tons of pictures before you take the scooter off the rental shop. This way, they don’t charge you for previous renter’s oopsies. Oh, and one pro tip: get insurance! They can charge a small fortune for even the tiniest scratch if the bike takes a tumble.
Pueblo Del Maiz:
This place offers an experience similar to stepping into a time machine. Visitors can explore the rich and vibrant world of the ancient Maya. This interactive cultural park lets you dive into traditional Mayan life—think cooking, crafts, rituals, and even fun ancient games.
To get there, you can either grab a cab or drive yourself—and I’d totally recommend driving! It can be tricky to find a ride back. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore without stress.
For more details, check out this website. I didn’t get a chance to visit myself. If you’re planning to go, it’s a good idea to ask locals for help with directions. My friends who visited absolutely loved it and shared some great insights.
Exiting the island for the mainland:
Heading from Cozumel to the mainland is a breeze! You’ll need to take a ferry from one of the island’s docks to Playa del Carmen. The ride is about 35 minutes and offers stunning views. Once you arrive, you’ll be ready to explore the mainland’s amazing destinations like Tulum, Akumal, Cancún, or the Riviera Maya. Don’t forget to check the ferry schedule in advance and book your ticket!
Restaurants to try:
I’ve eaten my way through plenty of spots, but I’m super excited to share just three that truly stole my heart: La Clasica, Los Tacotales and Mezcalito’s Last Frontier. All three are absolute gems! While La Clasica and Mezcalito’s Last Frontier is a must-visit for a sit-down meal, Los Tacotales is more of a street food vibe. Mezcalito’s Last Frontier is on the other side of the island and has an ocean view, although the food here is good, the cleanliness is to the par. These three are totally worth the visit!
Mezcalito’s
End note and important things to remember:
- Protect the Reefs: Skip the sunscreen while snorkeling or diving—even mineral-based ones can harm the corals over time. Let’s keep the underwater world vibrant and healthy!
- Rent a Ride: Renting a car, scooter, or bike is a game-changer! It makes exploring the island so much easier and way more fun. Plus, you’ll feel like a true adventurer.
- Haggle Like a Pro: Don’t be shy to negotiate with vendors! Prices can get a little inflated for tourists, so channel your inner bargainer.
- Flirting is a Thing: Don’t be surprised if a local playfully asks you to be their boyfriend or girlfriend—it’s a quirky thing many travelers experience here. Just laugh it off! ️
- Stay Safe After Dark: While Cozumel is generally safe, it’s best to avoid wandering alone in the non touristic parts of the island after dark. Better to play it safe and stick to well-lit, busy areas.️
- Pack Smart: Essentials like sunscreen can be pricey on the island, so bring your own if you’re on a budget. Trust me, your wallet will thank you later!
Few pictures from my trip which made me smile:
itchy feet 
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