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Cozumel

Cozumel travel guide

Place in Quintana Roo, Mexico

Things to do55 experiences
Best time to visitFebruary
Nearest airportCZM · 2 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−5
Population84,519

About Cozumel

San Miguel de Cozumel, Commonly known as San Miguel is the largest city in Cozumel Municipality in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. With a 2010 census population of 77,236, it is also Quintana Roo's fourth-largest community, after Cancún, Chetumal, and Playa del Carmen. It is a hub for tourism on the Riviera Maya, providing the sole ferries between the Mexican mainland and the island. In addition to the ferry service to Playa del Carmen, the first international cruise terminal in Quintana Roo is located in the city.

Places to visit in Cozumel

  1. Palancar Reef

    Palancar Reef

    Nature · 12 mi from centre

    A large reef off the southwest coast of Cozumel, famous for its towering coral formations and tunnels. Book with a licensed dive operator, as strong currents make drift diving the standard approach.

  2. Cozumel Reefs National Park

    Nature · 15 mi from centre

    A marine park protecting the reefs along the island's southern coast, rich in turtles, rays and tropical fish. A small park fee is collected on tours, and reef-safe sunscreen is expected.

  3. San Gervasio

    Historic

    The island's largest Maya ruins, once a pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Ixchel. Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat, and bring insect repellent for the jungle paths.

  4. San Miguel

    San Miguel

    Neighborhood

    The island's main town, with a waterfront promenade, shops and restaurants near the ferry pier. Walk a few blocks inland from the seafront to find more local and affordable places to eat.

  5. Chankanaab Park

    Park

    A beach and nature park built around a lagoon, with easy snorkeling, gardens and sea lion shows. Arrive early, before cruise ship groups fill the beach areas.

  6. Punta Sur Eco Park

    Nature

    A protected reserve at the island's southern tip with a lighthouse, lagoons with crocodiles, and quiet beaches. Climb the lighthouse for coastal views, and bring snacks since food options are limited.

  7. Playa del Carmen

    Playa del Carmen

    Neighborhood · 11 mi from centre

    A busy resort town on the mainland reached by a regular passenger ferry from Cozumel. Stroll along Fifth Avenue, its pedestrian street, but check the ferry schedule for the last return boat.

Things to do in Cozumel by type

55 tours, tickets and experiences across 6 categories. Pick a type to see what is available for your dates.

How long
  • 3-6 hours 7
  • Flexible 4
  • Over 6 hours 3
  • Up to 1 hour 2
  • 1-3 hours 2
Good for
  • Families 20
  • Couples 12
  • Youth 11
  • Senior 9
  • Families with kids 1
  • Adult only 1
Ways to go
  • Small group 2
Browse all things to do in Cozumel

Top experiences in Cozumel

Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 55 available.

See all things to do in Cozumel

Where to stay in Cozumel

Popular hotels in Cozumel, out of 58 properties you can book.

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Best time to visit Cozumel

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Cozumel is February, when average daytime highs are around 82°F and rain falls on about 7 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 74° – 81° 14
Feb 73° – 82° 7
Mar 76° – 86° 12
Apr 76° – 86° 9
May 80° – 90° 9
Jun 79° – 88° 23
Jul 80° – 88° 18
Aug 79° – 90° 19
Sep 79° – 89° 18
Oct 77° – 85° 22
Nov 75° – 83° 16
Dec 74° – 81° 17

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Cozumel weather forecast

  • Wed 21 Oct 85° 78° 50%
  • Thu 22 Oct 84° 74° 98%
  • Fri 23 Oct 83° 73° 72%
  • Sat 24 Oct 82° 75° 69%
  • Sun 25 Oct 84° 75° 67%
  • Mon 26 Oct 85° 74° 54%

Know before you go

Currency
Mexican peso (MXN)1 US dollar ≈ $18.4
Language
Spanish
Calling code
+52
Driving
On the right
Time zone
America/CancunUTC−5
Capital
Mexico City

Upcoming public holidays in Mexico

  • Revolution DayDía de la Revolución
  • Christmas DayNavidad
  • New Year's DayAño Nuevo
  • Constitution DayDía de la Constitución
  • Benito Juárez's birthdayNatalicio de Benito Juárez
  • Labour DayDía del Trabajo

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Cozumel

These are the airports closest to central Cozumel. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • CZM Cozumel International Airport2 mi (3 km) from the city centre
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Cozumel travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Cozumel?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Cozumel is February, when average daytime highs are around 82°F and rain falls on about 7 days a month.

What is the weather like in Cozumel?

May is usually the warmest month in Cozumel, with average highs of 90°F (32°C). December is the coolest, with average lows of 74°F (24°C). The wettest month is typically June, with about 303 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Cozumel?

Cozumel International Airport (CZM) is the closest airport, about 2 miles (3 km) from the centre of Cozumel.

What currency is used in Cozumel?

Cozumel uses the Mexican peso (MXN). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ $18.4.

What time zone is Cozumel in?

Cozumel uses the America/Cancun time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

What are the best places to visit in Cozumel?

Top sights in Cozumel include Palancar Reef, Cozumel Reefs National Park, San Gervasio and San Miguel. A large reef off the southwest coast of Cozumel, famous for its towering coral formations and tunnels. Book with a licensed dive operator, as strong currents make drift diving the standard approach.

What are the top things to do in Cozumel?

Popular experiences you can book in Cozumel include KUZÃ Beach & Adventure Park Day Pass, Ferry to Playa del Carmen by Xcaret Xailing and Atlantis Submarine Experience in Cozumel. Destina Holidays offers 55 tours and activities here.

What kinds of tours and activities can I book in Cozumel?

The most popular types of experiences in Cozumel are amusement parks (18), outdoor activities & adventure (15), cruise & water tours (9) and day trips & excursions (5). Filter by type when you search to compare prices and availability for your dates.

Where should I stay in Cozumel?

Popular areas for hotels in Cozumel include Cozumel. Well-reviewed options include B Unique and Cozumel Palace All Inclusive.

How many hotels can I book in Cozumel?

Destina Holidays currently lists 58 properties in and around Cozumel, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.