Cozumel is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. It’s located just 11 miles from the coast of Mexico and is a real paradise full of natural beauty.
Cruise passengers usually love this destination for two reasons: the slow and traditional lifestyle that usually characterizes this type of place, and the many activities and excursions that are organized on the island.
Its popularity has made it one of the most visited destinations ever with several million tourists arriving each year.
If your cruise will stop in Cozumel then you are reading the right article.
We are going to look at what are the 10 things you cannot miss on this Mexican island and I will give you some specific tips for cruise passengers.
Where do cruise ships dock in Cozumel?
The island of Cozumel has 3 different cruise docks that manage the large number of cruises arriving each day.
These docks are the pier of Punta Langosta, Puerta Maya, and the International Cruise Terminal.
Punta Langosta is the main one and the closer to the town. You can just walk for a few minutes to reach the shops and restaurants of downtown San Miguel.
It’s usually used by Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC, Disney Cruise Line, Marella, and Silversea.
The International Pier is the older one and is where some of the larger cruise ships will dock.
It’s just about 3 miles from downtown and a cab will only cost 8 to 10 dollars.
It’s usually used by Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises.
Puerta Maya is the cruise terminal farthest from Downtown. Was built by Carnival and for that reason is only used by Carnival’s ships.
Although it is farther from the city center, it’s close to many beaches and attractions on the island. So it could be a good docking point depending on the schedule you have.
The Things You Can’t-Miss in Cozumel
1. Scuba diving and snorkeling
You really can’t leave Cozumel without a bit of scuba diving and snorkeling.
Just think that this island is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, one of the largest in the world.
I assure you that you will be amazed by the beauty of the seabed, the underwater life, and the colors of this reef.
You have two ways to do this: you can rent the equipment and do everything yourself, but I recommend this only if you are experienced and have already practiced these activities.
Or you can book an organized activity with an instructor who will explain how to do it.
Please don’t ever venture out alone unless you have the experience, the sea can be dangerous sometimes.
2. Enjoy the beach
If you just want to relax and enjoy the beach and the sun, then this is also the right place.
You can go to one of the many beaches on the island, grab a beach chair, and enjoy a drink while relaxing with the sound of the waves.
Some beaches offer all-inclusive treatments with day passes that include the beach, water park, attractions, food, and drinks.
While other beaches are pay-as-you-go or free.
3. Explore Mayan Ruins
The Mayan ruins are definitely one of the most interesting things in Mexico.
Unfortunately, there are no extensive sites in Cozumel, and the only interesting one, in my opinion, is the San Gervasio Archaeological Site.
If you want to see something more interesting, you have to go to the sites in mainland Mexico. Unfortunately, the problem for those on a cruise is time; you can only do this if your stop in Cozumel is long enough, or if it will be an overnight stay.
4. Chocolate Factory
If you are a fan of chocolate and have always dreamed of seeing its making, don’t miss the tour of the cocoa factory.
I had done a tour of this kind before but I enjoyed this one more. It was with Chocolates Damarsicheli, but I heard there are more on the island.
We saw the whole process of making it starting from the cocoa bean, and they even let us try making it.
Then we had a chance to taste different varieties, and a sweet tooth like me loved it.
5. ATV tour
I also like things a little more adventurous, so I also recommend the ATV tour of the island.
With these vehicles, you are able to reach more remote and unexplored parts of the island. You can then see more pristine landscapes and less touristy areas.
Some tours also include cave exploration and breaks so you can take a quick swim.
6. Go shopping
If you are not much into tours, you can opt for a day of shopping. You will find several nice stores both in the city center and near the various cruise piers.
When I shop while traveling, I always look for things made by local artisans or check the labels to see that the items are made in the country I am in.
Basically, everywhere you can pay in U.S. dollars, so there is no need to change money.
When I go to these countries, I always try to pay in cash, especially in “unsafe places”.
Payment card scams here are quite frequent.
7. Swim with dolphins or whale sharks
Water activities that can be done in Cozumel include swimming with dolphins or whale sharks.
The feeling of being so close to these animals is really wonderful, and it is nice to be able to admire them in a natural setting and not in a zoo or aquarium.
It’s definitely an experience that I recommend and, in my opinion, you should not miss it.
8. Rio Secreto
Rio Secreto is a natural reserve that will leave you speechless.
It’s about 45 minutes away by ferry from the island and features a network of caves and underground rivers.
Here you can see semi-submerged caves, stalactites, stalagmites, and colorful mineral formations.
It is really a kind of view that is difficult to see in other parts of the world! If you have time, I definitely recommend a visit.
9. Try authentic Mexican food
When you stop in Cozumel remember to try some local food, I guarantee it is delicious.
You can eat at one of the characteristic restaurants located on the beach and in town, or you can book a culinary tour.
I have seen that some cruise lines offer food tours to try authentic Mexican dishes but never had a chance to go to one. It’s on my list of things to do next time I go to Cozumel.
10. Chankanaab
Chankanaab is a national park on the island. It’s well known for its natural beauty, including a lagoon, beaches, botanical gardens, and coral formations.
I think that it’s a great place for those looking for a day of fun for the whole family, since there are several activities to do that will please everyone.
You can snorkel and scuba dive, visit the botanical gardens, the dolphinarium, or relax on the beach.
The admission price is $29 for adults and $20 for children ages 4-12. Children under 3 years old get in for free.
To conclude
What I personally love about Cozumel is that there are so many excursions to choose from! Even if you go there several times you never get bored! I hope you enjoyed my must-do list.
Let me know if there are any other activities that you think should be included in this list and of course let me know what your favorites are.
See you on the next cruise!
