Attractions in Cozumel, Mexico: What to do and where to go

Reefs and Scuba Diving

Cozumel is a paradise for divers and sun lovers, it has been considered by experts as one of the best places for diving in the world because of the more than 30 reefs, such as Palancar, Paraiso, Santa Rosa, El Paso del Cedral, Colombia, Maracaibo, and Tormentos. On these reefs the average visibility ranges from 35 to 50 m. Divers from around the world come to Cozumel to experience the infinite variety of underwater life which includes every texture and color you could ever imagine. There are many places to go snorkeling, due to the range of the visibility mentioned before.

Eels, angelfish, grouper, technicolor parrot-fish, sergeant majors and four-eyed butterfly fish are among the residents you may find. Experienced divers should head for the reefs bordering the southern point of the island (Colombia and Maracaibo), requiring an hour boat trip from San Miguel. These offer views of spectacular natural environments. The famous wall of Maracaibo is formed by coral-covered tunnels which descend to depths of 40m, while in the 20m shallows there is a dazzling wealth of reef and marine life.

San Gervasio Ruins

One of the most popular island excursions is to San Gervasio. It is probably the most important Mayan site on Cozumel, where they still preserve a large portion of their traditions and mystery. The site was once an important ceremonial center where the Maya gathered, even traveling from the mainland in order to worship their main deity, Ixchel, known as the goddess of love and fertility. During the classical and post-classical period it was a very important place for commerce and political development. Nowadays, between May 30th and June 1st the Sacred Mayan Crossing is still held here, featuring canoes which travel from Xcaret to San Gervasio, recreating the original Mayan journey.

Beaches

Cozumel's east coast beaches include the beautiful calm beach at Punta Chiqueros, the small cove of Chen Rio, and Punta Morena, a rocky beach with beach cabins to rent and a restaurant. Playa Uvas is the nearest to the docks and it is excellent for kayaking, snorkeling and diving, it also has a swimming pool, store, and a restaurant. Playa del Sol offers horse back riding, a restaurant and snorkel equipment for hire. Playa Maya is a quiet, sandy beach backed by jungle. This is beaten in the popularity stakes by the seemingly endless Playa San Francisco, with a wide range of aquatic life, where Palapa restaurants, bars and pleasure-seeking sun lovers set the tone.

You can reach Playa Escondida via a rough turnoff from the main road about 19km south of San Miguel. At the southern tip are a lighthouse, a Mayan temple named El Caracol and a restaurant. On the other hand, at the Playa Mia Grand Beach Park, you will find water activities, kids' areas, a zoo, an underwater Mayan city, lockers, towels, and parasols. It is a sure bet that with any choice you make you'll get to enjoy Cozumel's sun and the tranquil, transparent waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Chankanaab Natural Park

In this wonderful park, solely designed for the preservation of nature, you'll be able to explore the amazing submarine world of the area. Chankanaab lagoon, with its transparent water, is a part of Cozumel's heritage. It is connected to the Caribbean Sea via subterranean tunnels and channels, which are full of a fascinating variety of marine flora and fauna. The botanical garden has more than 350 species of plants, an area with recreations of Mayan and pre-Hispanic constructions, as well as areas with hammocks for relaxing awhile. Children can swim in the ''caleta'', which is a protected area, or even swim with the dolphins. Whatever you decide to do, for sure it will be an unforgettable experience.

Punta Sur Ecological Park

This impressive park was designed with nature and tranquility in mind. It has a protected area spanning 2,471.05 acres, with a great diversity of flora and fauna, along with extensive stretches of white-sand beaches.

The sea is so transparent in this area that the coral reef and marine life is easily viewable from the beach.This truly unique place even has a vantage point in the Colombia lagoon where you can catch sight of huge crocodiles and exotic birds. It is also a favorite place for marine turtles to lay their eggs. The Navigation Museum is located inside the park and has a very interesting exhibition about the evolution of navigation, since the times of the ancient Maya.

Discover Mexico

This spectacular theme park provides you with the opportunity to really get to know Mexico by visiting different cities, cultures, art and people throughout its history. It is a place which offers interesting historic documentaries, scale models of different archaeological sites and important colonial buildings in the country, as well as temporary and permanent art exhibitions.

You can feel the excitement of traveling throughout time and space to discover one of the richest cultures of all times: the Mexican Culture. You'll also be able to explore the exotic nature of our country during the pre-Hispanic, colonial and modern times. You can also travel around the country in the video-experience hall.

The Museum of the Island

Located in downtown, the museum was created to provide ecological information and education. It has 4 exhibition rooms which offer a broad geographic and historic view of Cozumel Island. In room one you can learn about the most important places on the island and find a sketch of its origin and geological evolution. Room II represents the submarine environment where a fragile ecosystem has developed around the coral reefs. In room III you can appreciate the Mayan culture's legacy. Finally, room IV is dedicated to the pioneers of Cozumel, who put all their effort and dedication into creating this beautiful and unique destination. In the museum you can also appreciate temporary exhibitions by national and international artists.

Horseback riding

This is the perfect way to enjoy Cozumel. Ride on horseback along trails that will take you deep into the dense tropical jungle where the ancient Mayans once lived. Explore the ceremonial caves and sculptures and learn about the lifestyle, traditions and spiritual development of these fascinating pre-Hispanic inhabitants.

Golf

For enthusiasts of golf, Cozumel offers an impressive 18-hole golf course, as well as 6,900 yards of jungle and mangrove landscaping. It is located in the Cozumel Country Club, and it's surrounded by stunning hotels, such as, El Cozumeleno, Azul Golf and Beach, and the Melia Cozumel Resort, just to mention a few. It was built in five years by the Nicklaus Design Group, who continually thought about preserving the environment during construction.

This golf course was the first one in Mexico that received the Environmental Plan Certification by Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System. This system is designed to help preserve and enrich the environment of the property. This course presents a good challenge for either amateur or experienced players and the surroundings are simply spectacular.

Cozumel's Carnival

Cozumel is a picturesque Caribbean island, where local people are very proud of preserving their traditions and heritage, not only from colonial times but also from the impressive Mayan culture that blossomed in this area of Mexico. Held every February, the Cozumel Carnival is one of the most representative celebrations of the island and it has a great family friendly atmosphere. The Carnival consists of 5 days of music, dancing and joyful parades full of color, as well as lots of delicious Mexican cuisine. The most representative event during this party is the dance of the "Comparsas", which is performed by incredible dancers. There is also a fun 'disguise' contest, demonstrating the locals' incredible creativity.