Cozumel is a world-famous tourist destination located in Mexico, just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The island is known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and Mayan ruins. There are also plenty of accommodation options available on Cozumel, including resorts, hotels, condos, and vacation rentals. In this Cozumel travel guide, we will provide some helpful tips and information on what to see and do on the island. Most of the hotels in Cozumel can be found on the western side of the island as the coast is calmer than the eastern side. We will also recommend some great accommodation options, depending on your budget and preferences.
A little more about Cozumel
Cozumel island is an elliptical-shaped island that is approximately 30 miles long and 9 miles wide. The island is home to a population of around 95 000 people, most of whom live in the capital city of San Miguel de Cozumel. The island has a tropical climate with temperatures averaging between 77-86 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season on Cozumel runs from June to October, so if you are planning a trip during this time, be sure to pack your rain gear!
What to do in Cozumel
1) Visit the Mayan ruins
Cozumel is home to some of the best-preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico. The most popular site is the San Gervasio archaeological park, which is located just a short drive from the island's capital, San Miguel de Cozumel.
San Gervasio was once a major ceremonial center for the ancient Maya people, and it is thought to have been inhabited as early as 300 BC. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of temples, palaces, and pyramids, as well as take part in guided tours and workshops.
2) Go snorkeling or diving
Cozumel is renowned for its clear turquoise waters and world-class diving and snorkeling. There are over 60 dive sites around the island, with something to suit all levels of experience.
If you're not a certified diver, don't worry! There are plenty of snorkeling spots around the island where you can still enjoy the incredible underwater views. Some of the best places to go snorkeling or diving in Cozumel include Palancar Reef, Colombia Reef, and Santa Rosa Wall.
3) Relax on the beach
With over 50 beaches to choose from, Cozumel is a paradise for beach lovers. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Playa Mia Grand Beach & Water Park, Playa del Carmen, and Playa Sante Fe. However, if you're looking for a more secluded spot to relax, there are also many small and intimate beaches dotted around the island.
4) Explore the island by Jeep
One of the best ways to explore Cozumel is by taking a jeep tour. There are many different tours available, depending on your interests. Some of the most popular jeep tours include visits to the Mayan ruins, jungle safaris, and beach excursions.
Where to stay in Cozumel
There are accommodation options to suit all budgets on Cozumel. If you're looking for luxury, there are plenty of high-end resorts offering stunning ocean views and five-star facilities. As mentioned, the majority of larger hotels and resorts can be found on the eastern side of the island as the ocean is less rough than on the open, western side. Many of the hotels actually have access to beaches so it's a great place to relax and find some peace after exploring the island. Also, many of the hotels are rather close to the airport in case you decide to fly into the island. The town itself is also close-by so staying on this side of the island provides all the necessary amenities and options.
