Destinations

Cozumel is one of Mexico’s most popular travel and vacation destinations. It is Mexico’s Caribbean island, a paradise that is home to the world’s second largest coral reef, the enormous Palancar reef located off the island’s southern tip. It is located just 12 miles off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It measures 28 miles long and 10 miles wide, and is world-renown for its sparkling white sand beaches and azure tropical waters.

The exceptionally clear water makes it ideal for novice divers and snorkelers alike, and makes it a world-class dive destination. Jacques Cousteau put Cozumel on the map with his fascination of the fantastic coral reefs here, and publicized it as one of the best places to go scuba diving in the world. Depending on the season there is 100-200 feet visibility underwater.

Water sports in Cozumel

Picture yourself viewing a dazzling array of tropical fish and coral in these clear Caribbean waters. That’s what its like to visit Cozumel, but since diving, snorkelling and charter fishing are the island’s foremost attractions, there are limited other attractions for the tourist (unless one travels to the mainland.) Outlined below are a few of the best features of Cozumel.

As well as the crystal clear waters, Cozumel offers white sandy beaches, which increase in size the further south you go on the island, as well as many resorts geared for the ultimate traveler. All of this is set against a backdrop of ancient Mayan ruins and the sights of San Miguel, the island’s capital and only town. In San Miguel the traveler can shop for traditional crafts, do some bar-hopping, and visit the various casual restaurants. The traveler can also take a ferry across the water to the mainland to Playa del Carmen, an hour south of Cancun, and spend a day enjoying the sites and offerings there.

The People of Cozumel

The people native to Cozumel were of Mayan descent. The Mayan were an advanced culture of farmers, fishermen and warriors who ruled for over 2000 years before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 15th century. The legacy of their rule still survives in the remnants of the huge cities that they built during the time they were in power. One interesting site which is not well-known is San Gervacio. San Gervacio was once a sacred site where Mayan women went to worship the goddess of fertility, Ixchel. Other ruins that may be of interest are sites such as Chichen Itza that hold massive pyramids which rival those at Cheops and Tulum. Chichen Itza is the only Mayan city built overlooking the sea. Tikal is another ruin that a tourist may find interesting, set in lush jungle where, at times, wild monkeys can still be seen swinging in the trees. Each of these sites is an easy one-day excursion from Cozumel.

The region of Cozumel and Akumal are also well-known for underground rivers that infiltrate the porous limestone of the Yucatan providing some of the most beautiful cave and cavern diving in the world. The caves are pristine and are filled with clear, clear water. Each has its own particular marine live unique to their own cave environment.

Cozumel is also home to many endemic species and subspecies. In birds, this includes the Cozumel Thrasher, the Cozumel Vireo, and the Cozumel Great Curassow, which at this time is almost extinct. If you are a bird-watcher it would be wise to bring binoculars and a bird book in an attempt to view these species. Also found uniquely to the island are several dwarf mammals, namely the Cozumel Island Raccoon (a separate distinct species apart from its mainland relative), the Dwarf Coati, and the Cozumel Fox, which is also close to extinction. Endemic marine life includes the Splendid Toadfish.

Shopping and things to do in Cozumel

Cozumel, like all Mexico, is famous for its beautiful silver jewellery, pottery, carvings, colourful artwork and clothes. There are many shops to visit in downtown San Miguel offering various local wares for the shopper, as well as beach vendors if you choose not to venture out of the your hotel area. Galeria Azul is one such place offering works for sale by local artists. Santitos y Miligritos (meaning “little saints and miracles” in Spanish) offers art, jewellery and artesania by local artists.

For the more enthusiastic visitor, Cozumel also has a great night-life with something for everyone. There are stylish lounge bars for the young, well-dressed traveler and more rustic Caribbean clubs that play salsa music to dancing crowds. One can also visit the world’s smallest Hard Rock café here, or enjoy a wide range of live music at El Manati.

With all of the uniqueness and variety in here, Cozumel still offers the traditional Mexican flavour, even to its Mexican cuisine, which is known for its intense, varied flavors, colorful decoration, and variety of spices. One can enjoy enchiladas, guacamole, chili, burritos, and many more well-known Mexican dishes in the many restaurants. The traveler must remember that Mexico is all about spices and is the home of the spicy-hot habanera pepper.

Many Mexican songs are known world-wide and visitors can enjoy hearing their favorites played here. Mexican music is unique and offers the typical mariachis band wearing huge sombreros.

Travel to Cozumel

For variety, spicy Mexican flavor, beautiful white sandy beaches and superb crystal clear coral reefs, Cozumel can’t be beat. But, Cozumel is also a cruise ship port and at times can be a very hectic and busy place, with many cruise ships docking at the same time. Crowds can be overwhelming at times, and the place can be really “hopping”. It is wise to consider what type of traveler you are before visiting Cozumel. If your wish is a totally relaxed, quiet vacation then Cozumel may not be for you. But if you enjoy the hustle and bustle and excitement of a busy port, Cozumel is a great place to visit.