You know those picture-perfect beaches you see on postcards? Cozumel is all that and more! As one of Mexico’s largest islands, this tropical paradise is famed for its unspoiled beaches and lush, untouched landscapes. Cozumel may be the perfect place to reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries, however there are so many incredible things to do in Cozumel and unforgettable experiences to be had.
Things to do in Cozumel in town
1. Hit the beach
There are many beaches to choose from in Cozumel, but our top pick is Playa Mia, an ethical adventure park and beach. Your entrance fee gives you access to kayaks and paddle boats for fun in the ocean, snorkels, volleyball courts and the exhilarating waterslides and pool.
2. Experience San Miguel de Cozumel
The only town on the island, San Miguel de Cozumel offers tourists a number of interesting sights. By day, the port is bustling with ferries, cruise ships and boats but quietens down at night. Take a stroll through the town, visit the local shops or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Cozumel.
3. Museo de Cozumel
The local museum is often one of a history-buff’s favorite things to do in Cozumel, with an array of exhibits showcasing the vibrant marine life, history and island geography. The museum often exhibits local and international artists’ artworks, making for a morning or afternoon well-spent.
4. San Gervasio Mayan Heritage Site
San Gervasio is a revered heritage site built in 800 AD that is a symbol of Cozumel’s religious activity. It is one of 30 heritage sites and Mayan ruins discovered on the island, with some being nestled amongst dense jungles and others rooted above the unspoiled beaches.
5. Cozumel Lighthouse
Climb the 134 stairs to the top of Celarain, Cozumel’s most well-known lighthouse and take in the sweeping views of the island. There is also a quaint museum located in the old lighthouse keeper’s home. It’s one of our favorite things to do in Cozumel to dodge the large crowds.
6. Jeep island tour
Take in the breathtaking sights of Cozumel on your own private Jeep tour of the island, with packages that include lunch, snorkeling and plenty of great photo opportunities. You choose your stops, making sure you don’t miss out on any sights on your to-do list.
7. Cozumel Pearl Farm
Hop on a boat to a remote, undeveloped part of the island and learn about the fascinating process of pearl farming. Grab a snorkel and explore the pearl hatchery, after which you can take some time out on the beach and enjoy the tasty lunch and drinks included in the tour.
8. Discover Mexico Park
A relatively new attraction that highlights Cozumel’s cultural diversity through miniature reconstructions of archaeological sites, multimedia exhibits, food stalls and traditional dance displays. This is one of our top things to do in Cozumel if you’d like to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Things to do in Cozumel in the water
9. Go scuba diving at Palancar Reef
Boasting abundant marine life, Palancar Reef is a world renowned diving destination with depths of up to 80 metres in some areas. See if you can spot the bronze statue of Jesus Christ planted 17 metres down. Cozumel is a divers paradise with over 100 dive locations, but this reef is many a diver’s favorite.
10. Be enchanted by Laguna Chankanaab
One of the most beautiful things to do in Cozumel is stopping in at Laguna Chankanaab, an exquisite crystal-clear freshwater lake filled with multicolored tropical fish perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The adjacent adventure park offers daredevils tree-climbing and zip-lining activities, great for families with kids.
11. Dare to tour Stingray Beach
Feeling brave? Book a guided swim with the mysterious local stingrays and get the opportunity to touch and feed them (if you dare!). Learn about their eating habits, habitat and behavior to become an expert in all things stingray.
12. Dolphin Encounters
Meeting dolphins is a special, unforgettable experience and one of the things to do in Cozumel visitors remember forever. Dolphinaris Cozumel offers an exhilarating swim with the dolphins and close-up encounters including fin shakes and hugs. The tour also aims to educate visitors about dolphins, their behaviors and physiology.
13. Submarine adventure
Atlantis Submarines offer 3 departures a day and the dive includes visiting the Felipe Xicotencatl shipwreck as well as a close-up view of the colorful marine life including tropical fish, sting rays and cuttlefish.
14. Set Sail On a Catamaran
One of the best things to do in Cozumel is hands down sailing the azure waters on a catamaran! Chill out onboard and enjoy the complimentary snacks and drinks, or hop in the water for a snorkelling adventure.
Things to do in Cozumel for foodies
15. Feast on Cozumel Chef Food Tour
A foodie dream come true, visit a number of local restaurants off the beaten path and dine like a local for the night, sampling local favorites along the way. Dishes include traditional street fare like quesadillas and local delicacies such as home-cooked Yucatán cuisine.
16. Taste test the Mayan Cacao Company
As far as things to do in Cozumel for foodies, paying a visit to the Mayan Cacao Company is a must. Mayans are well-known for their chocolate and were even responsible for making the first hot chocolate drink! During the 70 minute tour you can sample famous chocolate recipes and, of course, buy some chocolate treats to take back home (or for later!).
There are so many fun and exciting things to do in Cozumel for everyone’s tastes. From soaking up the history and culture in town, exploring the culinary delights of Cozumel or immersing yourself in nature and the sparkling waters, Cozumel won’t ever disappoint. We recommend booking any of your chosen tours in advance as this popular tourist destination can get busy so don’t leave your adventures up to fate!
See Also:
6 Best Cozumel Diving Sites for Beginners and Advanced Divers