Is Cozumel, Mexico, Open for Travel?
Cozumel is a Mexican island off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its clear waters, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs. It is open for travel and has been a popular tourist destination for some time, especially as a cruise ship stop. The island offers a range of activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, beach lounging, and exploring the local Mayan history.
Cozumel has a very low crime rate and is considered a safe area to visit, especially compared to other parts of Mexico. The island is easily accessible by plane, with the Cozumel International Airport, or by ferry from Playa del Carmen.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Location | 2 miles east of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula |
Size | 28-29 miles long, 9-11 miles wide |
Population | Mexico's third-most populated island |
Crime rate | Low |
Currency | Mexican peso |
Language | Spanish |
Water | Undrinkable |
Time zone | Eastern Standard Time |
Voltage/Plug type | 127 V, two flat parallel pins |
What You'll Learn
The best time to visit Cozumel
Cozumel is a small island off the coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, known for its turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and coral reefs. The island is a popular cruise destination, with up to eight cruise ships docking there per day.
However, the dry season in Cozumel lasts from December to April, so this entire period is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the rain. The winter months of December to February are also ideal if you want to escape the cold and enjoy pleasant weather, though you may experience higher levels of tourism during this peak season.
If you're looking to beat the crowds, the low season from May to October offers fewer tourists, lower prices, and still warm enough weather to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. September, October, and November are particularly good months to visit if you want a quieter experience, as the number of tourists starts to drop off.
For those interested in specific activities, here is a breakdown of the best times to visit Cozumel:
- Scuba diving: Any time of year is good for scuba diving, as water temperatures remain comfortable year-round. However, for the warmest water temperatures, aim for a visit between May and October. For bull shark season, plan your trip for November to March, and for sailfish season, go from late January to early March.
- Snorkelling: The summer and early fall months of July to October are ideal for snorkelling, as the water temperatures are at their warmest, and visibility is more consistent. This is also the best time to see whale sharks, as it is whale shark season.
- Beach relaxation: For the driest months with the lowest chance of rain, plan your trip for March or April. December to February are also good options, with minimal precipitation.
- Jeep and buggy rides: To avoid storms and heavy clouds, the best time for jeep and buggy adventures is between December and April, avoiding the peak hurricane season from August to October.
- Beating the crowds: The low season from May to October is the quietest time to visit Cozumel, with fewer tourists and lower prices. May, September, and October are particularly good months to visit, as they fall outside of religious events, summer breaks, and national holidays.
So, depending on your preferences and interests, you can choose the best time to visit Cozumel for your ideal holiday experience.
Yes, Cozumel is open for travel and tourists can visit the island. However, there are some entry requirements to keep in mind. You will need a passport to visit Mexico, and you must pay a new tourist tax for visits to Quintana Roo, which is $19.90 per person, including children. This tax can be paid online in advance or at the airport before departure.
It is also important to note that cruise ships are a common way to reach Cozumel, and they are operating in the region.
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Getting to Cozumel
Cozumel is a small island off the coast of Playa del Carmen, on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. It's known for its clear turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and coral reefs.
There are a few ways to get to Cozumel. The most convenient option is to fly directly to Cozumel International Airport, which is about 3 kilometres north of San Miguel de Cozumel. Many airlines offer direct flights to Cozumel from the United States, including American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and United. International flights are available on Aeromexico and Air Canada. Airport transfers to your hotel can be arranged with private taxi vans or shared passenger vans, known as "colectivos".
Another option is to fly to Cancun and then take a bus or shuttle to Playa del Carmen, followed by a ferry to Cozumel. The ADO bus from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen costs about 240 pesos per person, and the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel costs around $16 for adults and $13 for children. The entire journey from Cancun to Cozumel will take about 3 hours.
If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can take a cruise to Cozumel. Many cruise lines, such as Carnival, Celebrity, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean, include Cozumel as a stop on their itineraries. The cruise ships dock on the western side of the island at one of three piers: Punta Langosta cruise pier, the International Pier, or Puerta Maya.
Once you're in Cozumel, the best way to get around is on foot or by golf cart, as most of the attractions are centrally located. Moped and scooter rentals are also popular, but they can be dangerous for novice drivers. Taxis are cheap and government-regulated, so you don't have to worry about bartering for the fare.
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Things to do in Cozumel
Cozumel is a small island off the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. It is known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and modern amenities. Here are some things to do when visiting Cozumel:
- Explore the wild east side of the island. The west side is mostly hotels and beach clubs, but the east side has remote beaches and fantastic local beach bars.
- Go scuba diving or snorkelling in the Mesoamerican Reef System, the world's second-largest coral reef system.
- Spend the day at a beach club on the west side of the island. There are several fantastic beach clubs where visitors can access sandy beaches, swimming pools, oceanfront restaurants, beach bars, sun loungers, water activities and more.
- Take a tour with a local. There is nothing quite like getting an insider experience with people who live on the island.
- Take a bike or e-bike tour to explore the island's stunning landscapes, tranquil coastlines, and vibrant culture.
- Try sport fishing. The waters around Cozumel are famous for a reason—they are teeming with gorgeous fish.
- Go shopping in the town centre or the Royal Village Mall by the cruise ship port.
- Take a Mexican cooking class and learn how to make traditional Yucatecan cuisine or Mexican classics like enchiladas or street tacos.
- Visit Punta Sur Ecological Park, a sprawling nature preserve on the southern tip of Cozumel. It's one of the best places to see the island's vast natural habitat, with beautiful beaches and incredible mangrove marshlands.
- Go on a jeep tour to see more of the island. Many parts of Cozumel can only be accessed via dirt roads, and jeep tours are a popular way to get off the beaten path.
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Where to stay in Cozumel
Cozumel is a Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea, just off the Yucatán Peninsula. It's known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs.
When it comes to where to stay in Cozumel, there are several options depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some suggestions for different areas of the island:
Centro (San Miguel)
The Centro area is Cozumel's bustling heart, with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great choice if you want to be within walking distance of everything, including the malecon (seafront promenade), beach bars, and the main town square.
Recommended accommodations in this area include:
- Stingray Villa: A 4-room boutique villa located just 3 blocks from the sea, with a pool and elegantly designed rooms.
- Caribo Cozumel: A highly-rated budget option, located about a 12-minute walk from the malecon.
- Casa Mexicana Cozumel: A mid-range hotel with sea views and a pool, but it can be noisy due to its central location.
The South/Southwest
The southern part of Cozumel is ideal for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. It's less developed and has fewer restaurants and bars, but offers a more tranquil atmosphere. Many resorts and hotels in this area have private jetties, allowing for convenient dive boat pick-ups.
Recommended accommodations in the south include:
- Landmark Resort: An expensive but luxurious resort with Greco-Roman architecture, sea view rooms, and easy access to the Dzul-Ha reef.
- Occidental Cozumel: An all-inclusive resort located further south, with 3 pools, a sea view, and a beach.
- Presidente Intercontinental: A luxury property with a private beach, 2 pools, and a variety of dining options.
The North
The northern end of the island is a good choice for those interested in golfing, waterfront accommodations, and a quieter atmosphere. It's also home to some of the best restaurants in Cozumel, such as Buccanos, La Monina, and Hemingway.
Recommended accommodations in the north include:
- Westin: A hotel offering a private beach area, an outdoor pool, free snorkelling equipment, and an onsite restaurant. You can also opt for an all-inclusive package.
- Hotel B and Hotel B Unique: Sister accommodations, with Hotel B Unique catering more to adults and offering chic, trendy design and oceanview or jungle rooms.
- Puerta del Mar: A quiet bed and breakfast located farther north, with a private beach area and bicycles for rent.
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What to eat in Cozumel
Cozumel's dining scene is full of delicious and affordable options. Meals in Cozumel are often made with shellfish, seafood, and Mexican staples like tacos, ceviche, and enchiladas. Here are some places to check out:
San Miguel
San Miguel, Cozumel's main town centre, has tons of options for dining and shopping. For breakfast, try Jeanie's for a waterfront meal or Coz Coffee Roasting Company for coffee. For lunch or dinner, check out:
- Kondesa Restaurant: This restaurant offers an outdoor dining experience with a tropical vibe and artistic Mexican cuisine, featuring a guacamole sampler and fresh fish dishes, like lionfish cakes and the catch of the day.
- Colores y Sabores Cozumel: This restaurant serves fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine featuring unique dishes like cactus salad and lime soup, alongside classics like homemade guacamole and chile relleno.
- Casa Mission Restaurant: A restaurant serving Mexican and seafood dishes.
- Fuego Restaurant Cozumel: This restaurant offers a fusion of Israeli and Mexican flavours, featuring shawarma, brisket tacos, and fresh pita with hummus.
- Señor Frog's Cozumel: This venue pairs Mexican cuisine and drinks with a lively party vibe and music. Nachos and habanero sauce are among the favoured dishes.
- El Billy Asados Al Carbon: This local spot offers a sampler platter with a mix of pit-cooked meats and grilled vegetables, paired with sides like yellow rice and spaghetti.
- CRAZY KING Burrito: This eatery offers a range of burritos, including a notable shrimp option, in a casual, welcoming environment.
- El Coffee Cozumel: This spot is known for its amazing carrot cake, chocolate cake, and excellent coffee roasts and in-house pastries.
- La Casita de Indio 333: A local gem serving delicious and economical food.
- Ernesto's Fajitas: A great place for easy takeout pizza.
- Los Seras: A super local taco experience where you can get stuffed for under $5 per person.
Other Notable Mentions
- Guido's: Chef Yvonne Villiger works wonders with fresh fish—if the wahoo with capers and black olives is on the menu, don't miss it. Guido's is also known for its pizzas, which are baked in a wood-fired oven.
- Pancho's: Marimbas play beside a bubbling fountain in the charming courtyard behind one of Cozumel's best folk-art shops. The English menu is geared toward tourists and priced in pesos, but regional ingredients like smoky chipotle chile elevate the dishes.
- The Pub: After enjoying Cozumel's tacos and seafood, head to The Pub for some comfort food. The Pub serves large portions of fish and chips, pot pie, and bangers and mash in a fun atmosphere.
- A Cuban-style eatery: Enjoy a pork loin sandwich, fried plantains, or their signature sandwich, "The Cuban", while sipping on one of the best made-from-scratch mojitos on the island.
- Restaurante del Museo: On the terrace off the second floor of the Museo de la Isla de Cozumel, this restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 am to 11 pm. The Mexican fare is enhanced by a great waterfront view, and the café is popular with locals and tourists alike.
- Chankanaab National Park: A great spot for snorkelling or scuba diving, and learning about the island's Mayan history.
- SkyReef: A traditional beach club where you can rent snorkelling gear, get massages, and enjoy live music, food, and drinks.
- Turquoise Beach Bar: This restaurant has a rooftop feel as it overlooks the ocean from above. Jump into the crystal-clear water, see hundreds of schools of fish, and relax in the partially submerged hammocks.
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Frequently asked questions
The Cozumel International Airport is the only airport serving the island. Visitors can also take a ferry from Playa del Carmen, which takes around 45 minutes.
The best time to visit Cozumel is between March and June when the temperature hovers around 90°F.
The local currency in Cozumel is the Mexican Peso. However, the US dollar is widely accepted in resort areas.
Cozumel is a popular destination for divers, with coral reefs such as Palancar and Columbia to explore. The island also offers beach clubs, Mayan ruins, and ecological parks.
Passengers can bring in merchandise as part of their personal luggage, including clothing, footwear, hygiene products, electronics, and sports equipment, without paying taxes. Food items are restricted and certain items, such as electronic cigarettes and some over-the-counter medications, are prohibited.