According to ancient Maya legends, Cozumel was the home of Ixchel, the goddess of love and fertility. The island dwellers dedicated marvelous temples to her. In exchange, as a sign of gratitude and good fortune, the goddess sent her favorite bird, the Cozumel emerald hummingbird, to decorate the entire island.
In any case, framed by an impressive 14-mile-long reef system, Cozumel is one of the largest islands in Mexico. An incredible Eden of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters located just 10 miles from the coast of Playa del Carmen. Its main town, San Miguel, is a beautiful place where the main shopping options, typical restaurants, and most sophisticated bars are concentrated. San Miguel is also the place to be if you want to enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife. And don’t forget to take a good look at the immense graffiti murals that decorate the town’s streets, made by all types of artists under the project SEA Walls, Murals for the Oceans.
- Punta Sur: Cozumel at its best
- Cozumel: a beach paradise
- Archaeological Zone of San Gervasio, a historical jewel
- Chankanaab Adventure Park, a natural treasure
- Cozumel Carnival, a burst of color
- Isla Pasion, the perfect beach club
- Snorkeling in Cozumel
- Restaurants and Clubs, Gastronomy and Entertainment
Besides all the charm of San Miguel, the island is a breathtaking collection of dreamy landscapes where you can enjoy all kinds of activities, from exciting zip lines and ATV rides to all sorts of water sports: kitesurfing, windsurfing, fishing, kayaking… But what makes this island famous all over the world is its collection of underwater treasures. Its large coral colonies are home to incredible marine biodiversity, making this destination ideal for diving and snorkeling.
Also, don’t forget to visits the Chankanaab Adventure Park or the San Gervasio Archaeological Zone. They are just two of the many other wonders that await you on the island where the sun is born. So, don’t waste any more time and book an unforgettable visit to Cozumel with the guys at Vacaciones Barcelo; you’ll love it!
Punta Sur: Cozumel at its best
Some of the most beautiful beaches and historical treasures on the island are located in the southern part of Cozumel, or Punta Sur. This protected area constitutes an authentic oasis of fine white sand and crystal clear waters, of lagoons and mangroves, of coral reefs bursting with life…
In this pristine environment, where numerous marine species can be observed almost with the naked eye, you’ll find the Punta Sur Eco-Beach Park. The place is an outstanding bird habitat with sighting towers and a sea turtle nesting area. Also, the Maya ruins of El Caracol, the fascinating Museum of Navigation, and the early 20th-century Celarain Lighthouse (don’t miss the view from the top!) are located within the park as well.
Northeast of the lighthouse, the so-called Grave of El Caracol is an archaeological site dedicated to the Maya goddess Ixchel. The structure was built by the Maya in the post-classical period (c. 950-1531 AD) and it has a very particular dome covered with sea snails that produced a buzzing noise when the winds increased, functioning as a primitive hurricane alarm.
Punta Sur is also one of the most important snorkeling & scuba diving areas on the island. It includes different underwater caves, some large enough for a diver to enter and explore, among many other attractions. This iconic location represents the pinnacle of the Cozumel diving experience, especially for the more experienced divers. But not only for them; you can just swim along or snorkel around the reef and some of the caves. So, just enjoy this area full of life and coral colonies.
Cozumel: a beach paradise
Cozumel has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mexican Caribbean, with waters of spectacular colors in a splendid natural environment. Moreover, there are striking beaches in different island areas, so choose wisely or, better yet, take the time to explore this beautiful place.
El Cielo Beach, an underwater cosmos
Among the most exotic beaches of Cozumel, El Cielo undoubtedly stands out. The main attraction of this spectacular place is the sandbar located about half a mile from the coastline. A shallow area that’s also called El Cielo (The Sky) precisely because of the large number of starfish that lay on its white sandy bottom. The place has become one of the favorite destinations for those who visit the island.
El Cielo Beach is located between Palancar Beach and Punta Sur, and also very close to the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, part of the Isla Cozumel UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve. Its crystalline, shallow waters, and sparkling white sand make this visit unique and an unforgettable experience in Cozumel. The starfish create an inspiring and romantic “starry sky” in which, from time to time, it’s also possible to spot sea turtles, manta rays, and a great variety of colorful fish.
Palancar Beach, coral gardens
Reef as in other areas of Cozumel, the underwater gardens in front of Palancar Beach are bursting with life. It’s a fascinating diving and snorkeling area that allows you to appreciate a wide variety of colorful fish. The sponges’ lavender tone nuances an underwater landscape surrounded by colossal coral formations. This place is one of the most extraordinary locations for underwater photography.
Are you looking for relaxation, calm, and tranquility? Then, the dense palm groves that literally overflow from the shore of Palancar Beach will allow you to totally disconnect from the urban world. Lay under the sun and over the fine sand, let time fade away and just feel how the calm emerald waters lull you with their soft swaying.
Chen Rio Beach, turquoise sea pools
On the east side of Cozumel, along the coastal road, there are two of the most popular beaches on the island: Playa Bonita and Chen Rio. The sea is rougher than in the West on these beaches, but they are great spots to play with the waves and enjoy a great day under the sun.
Especially, Chen Rio beach is one of the best-kept secrets in Cozumel. The area is protected from the open sea by a rock barrier that creates a natural sea pool with warm and crystalline waters. The place is perfect for swimming with kids, snorkeling, or just laying back surrounded by fantastic scenery.
Things to do in Cozumel
Set up an exciting visit to Cozumel with Vacaciones Barcelo and, besides having a lovely beach day, don’t forget to discover some of the most fascinating natural and historical treasures on the island.
Archaeological Zone of San Gervasio, a historical jewel
The ancient Maya ruins of San Gervasio stand over the island’s most extensive permanent freshwater mantle. A natural feature that has allowed its population to thrive for centuries. Inhabited from 200 AD until the 16th century, the city was part of the extensive commercial network of the Caribbean region and a great example of the integration of its inhabitants with nature.
Walking along its white paths or sacbés, as they were called in the Maya language, and discovering the different architectural ensembles, is to follow a pilgrimage that has been going on for centuries. Because San Gervasio was not only an important political center but also a sacred place. The ancient city was the sanctuary of the goddess Ixchel, whom all kinds of people from all over the Mayan world came to worship.
In any case, San Gervasio is the most significant historical complex in Cozumel, and it offers a splendid overview of the Maya culture and its mysteries.
Palancar Reef, an underwater paradise
Located on the west coast of the island, this place is one the most sought out diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Palancar is part of the Great Mesoamerican Reef (the second-largest barrier reef in the world) and a protected area within the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. Needless to say, the place offers a true underwater paradise.
Be sure to set up an exciting diving or snorkeling tour to the Palancar Reef with Vacaciones Barcelo. Or, even better, enjoy an unforgettable getaway at Occidental Cozumel or Allegro Cozumel. These two fantastic hotels are located just in front of the Palancar Reef, and they can be your best gateway to this and every other underwater treasure in Cozumel.
Chankanaab Adventure Park, a natural treasure
Also on the island’s west coast, Chankanaab is one of Cozumel’s greatest natural treasures and one of its top attractions. Located inside the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, Chankanaab is a protected area for marine life and a fantastic adventure park where you can explore a unique ecosystem, among many other activities.
In Chankanaab Adventure Park, visitors can explore the area through an exciting eco-archaeological tour, swim with dolphins and manatees, and enjoy the spa and pre-Columbian Temazcal steam bath. Of course, Chankanaab Park also allows you to enjoy the beach and the sun, as well as exciting snorkeling and diving experiences on the coral reefs.
Cozumel nightlife: fun until you drop
Yes, the island is a natural wonder and a historical treasure. But, don’t forget that you’re still in the Mexican Caribbean, an unrivaled party heaven! So, just like when you visit Cancun and the Riviera Maya, you can’t miss enjoying the lively local nightlife in Cozumel.
Take a sip of your favorite cocktail with the best ocean views on any local beach club. Or visit some of the bars and nightclubs and enjoy their relaxed and amusing atmosphere. Also, don’t miss the 5 bars at Occidental Cozumel, including the “La Misión” dance club with DJ music and pool table. Or the fun Sports Bar and chic Disco Bar at Allegro Cozumel, two great options to enjoy Cozumel’s extraordinary nightlife.
Cozumel Carnival, a burst of color
With more than 140 years of history, the Cozumel Carnival is one of the most popular festivities in the entire Mexican Caribbean and one of the eight most representative carnivals in Mexico. Celebrated in mid-February, this fantastic party involves almost everyone on the island. Every year, it becomes a beautiful burst of colors with costumes, dances, parades… In short: an unforgettable party!
Like most carnivals in the world, it starts with the coronation of the Kings. Then, it reaches its climax with the burning of King Momo, a moment in which joy, dance, and party just overflow. Thousands of locals and visitors gather along the Rafael Melgar Coastal Avenue to enjoy the lively parades that take place every night for several days. Also, in the main square of San Miguel, countless stalls offer typical food, drinks, and crafts. As the night progresses, the music bands make their appearance to perform various musical genres, especially the danzón, one of the most popular dances in the area. The first rays of sunlight will mark the end of the party… But only until night falls again!
Isla Pasion, the perfect beach club
Less than a mile long, Isla Pasion or Passion Island is one of the undisputed jewels of the Mexican Caribbean and one of the most extraordinary treasures in Cozumel. Located in a small bay on the island’s north shore, this islet is a magical place where you can only hear the sound of the small waves that reach the shore, pushed by the soft breeze of the sea.
Isla Pasion has different areas and offers several services and activities to enjoy an unforgettable beach day. A fun water park, a relaxing beach club, an exciting speed boat ride, an off-road Jeep tour, a guided kayak excursion with an expert in biodiversity… Don’t miss all the action and beauty of this breathtaking island turned into the perfect beach club!
Snorkeling in Cozumel
Cozumel is one of the best places for scuba diving and snorkeling not only in Mexico but all over the world. The island has several coral reefs classified among the most important on the planet for their marine biodiversity and crystal clear waters, ideal for this type of underwater activity.
The best diving and snorkeling spots are located off the island’s southwest coast, including places like El Cielo, Palancar, Dzul-Ha, Paraíso, Las Palmas, Villa Blanca, Colombia… All of them are home to hundreds of marine species, from multicolor fish, crustaceans, and mollusks to sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks. A totally magnificent spectacle!
So, once again, don’t forget to get in touch with Vacaciones Barcelo or the folks at Occidental Cozumel or Allegro Cozumel to discover all the fabulous underwater treasures that this gorgeous island has to offer.
Restaurants and Clubs, Gastronomy and Entertainment
In Cozumel the gastronomic experience and fun are always guaranteed. There are a multitude of restaurants where the offer is very varied and allows us to choose from an endless number of culinary possibilities, from the typical Yucatecan food, the most special in this Mexican area, to other types of international menus.
If we want a Mexican-style ceviche, La Iguana Azul is a good choice, very accessible and well served for a snack. We can also find a more local cuisine at the Costa Brava restaurant, where the chiles rellenos are a delight. And do not rule out a visit to Machete Legendary Taco Grill, a typical Mexican taquera where the variety of options can even be overwhelming. But if you are looking for a more exquisite experience, the guaranteed choice is La Misión, specialized in seafood and with a very well designed menu of Mexican food.
To enjoy a refreshing cocktail overlooking the sea of Cozumel, nothing better than Fat Tuesday, a colorful bar with a kitchen that serves the best cocktails of the island and where joy overflows at every moment. On a more beachy note is Mezcalito’s, a restaurant-bar practically on the shore of the beach, where beers flow non-stop in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. And to close with a flourish, nothing better than The Liquor Box, where the communion of nature and leisure is perfectly combined, and where the Caribbean is an absolute reality for all travelers.
At night, fun in Cozumel always has an open door. At Señor Frog’s, one of the most popular places for dancing and drinking, there is excellent music and partying guaranteed. Another legendary name joins this tradition: Carlos’n Charlie’s, which takes the cake for the talent of its waiters when it comes to serving drinks, establishing themselves as great entertainers when it comes to motivating fun. To enjoy live music, the suggestion is to go to the Thirsty Cougar, a place where Caribbean music genres are privileged, and where dancing is guaranteed.