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Visitor
Activities
Scuba
Diving
 Divers
world wide have discovered Cozumel's most valuable treasure...
it's coral reefs. Cozumel is constantly bathed by the
south to north flow of the Yucatan current, which produces
visibility often exceeding 100 feet, and most dives are
conducted as mild drift diving. The underwater landscape
includes majestic cliffs, canyons, tunnels, and cathedrals
overgrown with black coral, sponges, and giant sea fans.
The reefs and walls support a prolific amount of friendly
fish life such as giant groupers and angelfish.
Snorkeling
You don't have to be a scuba diver to enjoy the underwater
wonders of Cozumel. There are several great snorkeling
spots that offer good visibility and plenty to see.
Some of the best places to snorkel include much of the
west coast, Chankanaab National Park, and Cardona Reef
towards the south end.
The water is usually warm in Cozumel, so a wet suit is
not necessary. However a light rash-guard will help keep
the chill off for extended snorkel adventures, with the
added benefit of protection against coral scrapes.
Kayaking
The clear and warm waters surrounding Cozumel are spectacular
for kayaking! Even though the prevailing currents run
from south to north, close to shore the currents are usually
not noticeable.
Cozumel's west side gets most of the kayak attention because
it is usually calm all day and the coastline is truly
spectacular. The west side is also closer to all of the
hotels, and launching is easy from almost any beach. A
short kayak excursion for lunch to San Francisco Beach
or to Playa del Sol is the perfect place to drop the paddles
and take a break. Also, kayaking to the reefs off of Chankanaab
Park for snorkeling is a good destination.
For a real adventure, the east side of the island offers
equally incredible scenery, but the wind usually picks
up in the afternoon. So getting an early start for an
east side excursion is a good idea. Restaurants along
this rugged stretch of coast make taking a paddle break
an enjoyable experience!
Parasailing
Parasailing is provided along Cozumel's western shore,
and boats can be flagged down from the hotel area south
of San Miguel and at San Francisco Beach. One of the great
things about Parasailing in the waters off of Cozumel
is that you can actually see the bottom of the ocean through
the crystal clear water!
Other Watersports
Windsurfing, sailing , jetskiing and waterskiing are also
popular on the island's western shore. Nearly all resorts
have water sports rentals.
Mopeds
In Cozumel Mopeds are more than just a good way to get
around the island. They are also a great way to have fun!
Hopping around the west side of the island is easy, such
as a jaunt to San Francisco beach for lunch or to Chankanaab
Park for a snorkel adventure.
For those who feel comfortable on these small motorized
bikes, a "circle tour" of the island is also
a lot of fun, stopping on the east side of the island
for lunch on a beautiful beach. Wearing a helmet is a
good way to make sure that you don't leave an empty seat
on the plane ride home.
Deep Sea Fishing
In addition to SCUBA diving, Cozumel is one of the top
spots for Deep Sea Fishing! Year round you will find Wahoo,
Mackerel, Barracuda, Amberjack, Bonito, Snapper and Shark.
From March to June Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish
(catch and release), Dorado, Tuna are the prized catch.
Fly Fishing
The north side of Cozumel island is known for its excellent
fly fishing. Have a great time enjoying the Cozumel sunshine
while you fish for Bonefish, Snook, Trigger or Permit
(depending on the season).
Golf
Cozumel Country Club is operated by Club Corp International,
this brand new golf course features:
Fully
equipped pro-shop
Club and shoe rental
Snack bar
Driving, putting and chipping range
Golf lessons
Tournament planning and organization
Championship Course
Par 72
Yardage:
Black: 6734
Blue: 6247
White: 5624
Gold: 4881
No caddies mandatory
Practice range |
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Parque Chankanaab
This is a marine park with an aquarium featuring over
60 different species of turtles, coral and fish, and a
place where tourists can dive, snorkel and swim with dolphins.
San Gervasio Ruins
 While
not as impressive as Tulum or Chichen Itza, San Gervasio
provides you with a sense of the Mayan culture and history.
San Gervasio was once the island's capital dedicated to
the goddess Ix Chel who was the wife of Itzamma, the Mayan
God above all. The structures are mainly foundations of
small temples and shrines. Entrance is approximately $3
dollars (27 pesos) and bilingual guides can be hired if
so desired. Take Avenue Juarez until you intersect with
the San Gervasio access road and head north for approximately
five miles.
El Caracol Ruins
El Caracol is thought to be a Maya lighthouse built between
1200 and 1400 A.D. that also served as a hurricane warning
system. Strategically placed openings whistle when the
wind blows and the Maya were able to tell what type of
weather was approaching. The stronger the wind, the higher
the pitch. Candles placed inside turned the structure
into a lighthouse guiding pilgrims and traders safely
to shore. The ruins are now part of the Parque Punta Sur
nature reserve. The USD10 entrance fee includes a guided
tour to the ruin.
Located at the southernmost tip of Cozumel, this 247-acre
nature reserve opened in 1999. Its focus is on conservation
of local flora and fauna so, no cars are allowed into
the park. If you're lucky you may spot crocodiles, egrets,
foxes, herons and iguanas among others. You can also visit
the Maya ruin El Caracol and the navigational museum in
the Punta Celerain Lighthouse. There is a restaurant and
snorkel rental. The beach here is quite pristine. Admission
is USD10, free after 3pm.
Carnaval
The majority of Mexicans are devout Catholics, so every
year just before Lent (sometime in late February or early
March) everyone acts out their sinful urges to dance and
enjoy life. The results are Carnaval, and Cozumel is famous
for its five-day long party that includes bright costumes,
parades, dances and lots and lots of music. The exuberant
fun seeps into all the restaurants and bars. Dancing in
the streets and over indulgence are encouraged—in fact
expected. If you plan to come to Cozumel during this time
of year be sure to reserve a room early.
Shopping
There are many shops selling souvenirs in Cozumel. You
will find places like Bazár del Àngel, Casablanca
and La Campana (among others) all along Avenida Melgar.
If you’re looking for a greater assortment of handicrafts,
the Mercado de Artesanías (The Handicrafts Market),
located a few blocks from the main square, is a must.
Other, more expensive shops where you can admire and buy
top quality art include Los Cinco Soles, Playa del Ángel
and Talavera. Thanks to the island's duty free status
and discriminating cruise ship clientele, Cozumel has
stocked stores selling quality Mexican and imported items.
Dining
Restaurants range from simple beach eateries to deluxe
establishments. Chefs, cooks and waiters are sincerely
eager to please and take pride in the quality of their
fare -- seafood is pre-eminent and meticulousy fresh.
Dining centers around San Miguel. Expect casual atmosphere
and friendly service. There is a surprising variety of
ethnic / international dining, from Italian to French
and Lebanese to Japanese, and of course you must try authentic
Yucatecan specialties.
Nightlife
Evening entertainment begins and ends early in Cozumel,
compared to the rest of Mexico. Restaurants are full by
8pm and start to wind down by midnight. Most discos, clubs
& larger bars can be found here, mainly in the hotel
zone or in the marina. Some of the larger resorts have
there own discos. Live tropical music is easy to find
in many hotel lobbies.
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