Mexico · Quintana Roo
Cozumel Island
Cozumel is the Riviera Maya's diving island: a 45-minute ferry from Playa del Carmen to drift dives over the Mesoamerican Reef, quiet beach clubs on the wild east coast, and a laid-back town that empties when the cruise ships leave.
Best season
December to April for dry weather; May to September for warmest water and fewer crowds.
What it costs
Moderate. Two-tank dive trips 90-120 USD, ferry 12 USD each way, scooters about 25 USD a day, tacos from 2 USD.
Getting there
Fly into Cozumel's own airport (CZM) or take the ferry from Playa del Carmen, which runs every hour.
Getting around
Rent a scooter or jeep to circle the island - the east coast road is the highlight; taxis are plentiful in San Miguel.
Highlights
- Drift diving at Palancar and Columbia reefs
- the wild east coast beaches like Punta Morena
- San Gervasio Mayan ruins
- sunset from the west-side malecon
Local tips
- The east coast has no shops - fuel up and carry water
- dive boats leave early, so book the day before
- after 5 pm the town belongs to locals again.
What to eat
- Lionfish ceviche (helping the reef)
- cochinita pibil tacos
- fresh coconut on the east coast
- margaritas on the malecon.
Where to stay
- San Miguel town for restaurants and dive shops
- the west coast hotel zone for all-inclusives.
Sample itinerary
Day 1: ferry over, rent a scooter, circle the island - Punta Sur eco park and east coast beaches. Day 2: two-tank morning dive, siesta, sunset on the malecon. Day 3: San Gervasio ruins, snorkel at Money Bar, ferry back.