Things to do in Cozumel

Why go to Cozumel

• Palancar Reef (UNESCO-protected coral system)

  Drift dive or snorkel through towering coral canyons teeming with sea turtles, eagle rays, and vibrant tropical fish.

• Chankanaab National Park

  An all-in-one lagoon, reef snorkel, botanical garden, and sea lion show that showcases Cozumel's biodiversity in one gorgeous spot.

• Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

  Explore a remote lighthouse, crocodile lagoon, and wild beach at the island's southern tip, stunning and refreshingly uncrowded.

• San Gervasio Mayan Ruins

  Walk the sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Ixchel, goddess of fertility, hidden inside a jungle interior unlike any beach ruin.

• Columbia Shallows Night Dive

  After dark, Cozumel's reefs transform, lobster, octopus, and sleeping parrotfish turn a simple night dive into an otherworldly experience.

Good to know in Cozumel

• Transit: Rent a scooter ($25-35/day) or golf cart ($45-65/day) to explore the whole island cheaply, taxis are metered but pricey for longer island runs.
• Tipping: Tip 10-15% at restaurants; dive operators appreciate $5-10 per dive; cruise-ship day visitors inflate prices near the pier, so walk two blocks inland for local rates.
• Tap water: Do not drink tap water, buy a large 5-liter garrafón jug at any tienda for about $1.50, far cheaper than constant bottled water.
• Free-entry days: The first Sunday of each month, Mexican nationals enter national cultural sites free, but as a foreign visitor Cozumel's parks rarely offer free days, your best free reef access is via public beach points rather than ticketed parks.

Trip essentials