Official Language:
Spanish
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Currency:
Peso & US Dollar
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Population:
Approximately 75,000 people call Cozumel home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Cozumel Mexico: The climate is warm year round with an average temperature of 81°F/27°C. Heavy rains start in June and go on through October. Rain can fall everyday, but the usual duration of a shower is brief. Expect high humidity during the rainy season. Humidity is less November through May, with an occasional cool evening.
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The 490-square-km (189-square-mi) island of Cozumel hangs 19 km (12 mi) off the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula. Cozumel was a well-known diving spot before Cancún ever existed, and it has ranked for years among the top five dive destinations in the world. Calm waters wash the white sandy beaches on its leeward side, which is fringed by a spectacular reef system, tall reefs line the southwest coast, creating towering walls that offer divers a fairy-tale landscape to explore. For nondivers, it has the beautiful water of the Caribbean with all the accompanying watersports and seaside activities. The island is 45km (28 miles) long and 18km (11 miles) wide, and lies 19km (12 miles) from the mainland. Most of the terrain is flat, undisturbed scrubland. On the windward Caribbean side, powerful surf and rocky strands are broken at intervals by calm bays and hidden coves. Aside from the 3% of the island that has been developed, Cozumel is made up of expanses of sandy or rocky beaches, quiet little coves, palm groves, scrubby jungle, lagoons and swamps, and a few low hills (the maximum elevation is 45 ft). A few Maya ruins provide what limited sightseeing there is aside from the island's glorious natural attractions. The island's name comes from the Maya word Ah-Cuzamil-Peten, which means "land of the swallows." For the Maya, Cozumel was the sacred site of the fertility goddess Ixchel, as well as a key center of trade and navigation. For the Spanish, it was useful as a naval base in the late 16th century. For pirates, its safe harbors and the catacombs and tunnels the Maya dug were ideal for their treasure-gathering and -storing needs. After cycles of settlement and abandonment that included an economic boom based on the island's abundant supply of zapote trees, which produce chicle, a chewing-gum industry staple, Jacques Cousteau discovered its incredible reefs and diving opportunities in 1961, and the trajectory of its current life was set.
The only town on the island is San Miguel, which, despite the growth of the last 20 years, can't be called anything more than a small town. It's not particularly attractive, but the place and its inhabitants are agreeable on Sunday evenings, everybody congregates around the plaza to be sociable and have a good time. Staying in town can be fun and convenient. You get a choice of a number of restaurants and nightspots. Because Cozumel enjoys such popularity with the cruise ships, the waterfront section of town holds wall-to-wall jewelry stores and souvenir shops. This and the area around the town's main square are as far as most cruise ship passengers venture into town. Elsewhere you find mainly offices, restaurants, small hotels, and dive shops.Should you come down with a case of island fever, Playa del Carmen and the mainland are a convenient 25-to-45-minute ferry ride away, weather permitting. Some travel agencies on the island can set you up with a tour of the major ruins on the mainland, such as Tulum or Chichén Itzá, or a visit to a nature park such as Xel-Ha or Xcaret. The island has its own ruins, but they cannot compare with the major cities of the mainland. During pre-Hispanic times, Maya women traveled by boat to the island to worship the goddess of fertility, Ixchel. More than 40 sites containing shrines remain around the island, and archaeologists still uncover the small dolls customarily offered in the fertility ceremony.
Cozumel, although not nearly as developed as its northern neighbor Cancun, still contains all the resources necessary for the ultimate cruise destination. Shopping is prevalent, and duty-free stores, selling everything under the tropical sun, invite the seasoned bargain hunter. Cozumel has been consistently rated the best spot in the world for scuba diving and snorkeling. Restaurants on the island are world-class as well as affordable. Finally, its proximity to the popular excursions of Xel-Ha Lagoons, the Mayan ruins at Tulum, and Playa del Carmen solidify its position as one of the top cruise destinations in the Caribbean.. Due to the increasing number of cruise ships calling here over the past decade, docking areas have been expanded and there are now three large piers serving Cozumel. Punta Lagosta is the newest and closest pier to San Miguel, as it is located just a short walk into town. The two other major docking sites in Cozumel, the International Pier and Puerto Maya Pier, are respectively located about two to three miles from San Miguel. Depending on your pace, downtown San Miguel is about a 30-45 minute walk from these piers. Since it can get very hot en route, most passengers opt to take a taxi into town. Beyond the aforementioned dock-to-town travel, downtown San Miguel is very walkable, with most shops, bars and restaurants clustered around the waterfront.
Taxis: From San Miguel to the southern tip of the island, most people get to San Miguel via taxis, which line up at the entrances to the piers and cost , the average taxi fare will be $5 - $8. From downtown to the northern areas of Cozumel, expect to pay anywhere from $5 - $10. You can arrange for a driving tour of the entire island for approximately $60. Call 9/872-0236 to arrange for taxi service when in Cozumel, to avoid being ripped off be sure to settle on a fare before departing. Word to the wise: Some drivers aim to overcharge for longer trips, so bargain wisely and don't be taken for a ride.
-Mopeds: This is a popular and inexpensive way ($35 per day) for one or two people to get around Cozumel, although many cruise ships warn against doing so because of the dangers of an accident due to reckless drivers, hidden stop signs, and stretches of severely potholed roads. Moped rental agencies are extensive in Cozumel. Be sure to read all the fine print before renting a moped in Cozumel. You may or may not be insured for damage and theft of the bike. In addition, be aware that helmets, by law, must be worn at all times.
-Renting a Car: Some passengers who don't take one of the shore excursions and want to travel on their own may want to rent a Jeep or 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Rates begin at $45 to $50 per day and can go as high as $80, plus additional charges for insurance and gas. Agencies include: Rentadora Aguilla (011-52-987-20729), Hertz (1-800-654-3131) and National Car Rental (011-52-987-23263).
-Ferry: The "Mexico Water Jet" ferries passengers back and forth between Playa del Carmen on the Yucatan peninsula and Cozumel. The ferry operates continuously, and the crossing takes approximately 30 minutes; depending on sea conditions, the ride can range from super smooth to extremely bumpy.
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Attractions |
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Arrecife Palancar:
The reefs are where it's at for prime scuba diving off this island. One of the best is the kilometres-long Arrecife Palancar (Palancar Reef), where stunning coral formations and a 'horseshoe' of coral heads offer some of the world's finest down-under all at an amazing 70m (230ft) visibility. Underwater photographers should come ready to shoot like mad. The water around the reef is about 24m (80ft) deep, providing pros opportunities for fantastic deep-water diving. The north end of the reef, called Palancar Gardens, is shallower but just as gorgeous. There are caverns and plenty of brightly coloured sea creatures. The Palancar Reef areas are popular, so their much-lauded coral is always vulnerable to attack. Be careful to leave the area no less pristine than it was before your arrival. To get to this reef, which is over a kilometre (not quite a mile) off shore, you can sign up for a day cruise or charter a boat from a tour agency.
El Cedral:
This Mayan ruin, which functioned as a jail in the 19th century, is the oldest on the island, dating way, way back to AD800. It's not a very obviously alluring attraction, but is the most accessible of Cozumel's ruins; it's 3.5km (2mi) down a paved road that heads off to the left a kilometre or two south of Playa San Francisco's access road. The ancient structure is only the size of a small house, so keep your eyes peeled for it. El Cedral is thought to have been an important ceremonial site, and today there is a small stucco church sitting next to the ruin.
Parque Chankanaab:
This park on the bay of the same name swarms with snorkellers, even though there's really not a whole lot to see in the water aside from a few brightly coloured fish and some deliberately sunken artificial objects. However, its beach is a stunner; walk 50m (164ft) inland to reach a limestone lagoon that is home to a host of iguanas and turtles. You can't swim or snorkel here with the lovely little creatures, but it's a pretty place to view nonetheless. Also on the park grounds are a small archaeological park containing Olmec heads and Mayan artefacts; a small museum holding objects imported from Chichén Itzá opportunities to swim with dolphins or watch sea lions strut their stuff (for a price); and a botanical garden sprouting 400 species of tropical plants. Travellers with kids will appreciate the children's playground. Chankanaab National Park (tel. 9/872-6605) It is open daily from 8am to 5pm.
Rancho Buenavista:
A great way to spend an afternoon exploring the island of Cozumel is on horseback. 4-hour horseback riding adventures to the interior of the island, including Mayan ruin sites and excursions through the surrounding jungles.(tel. 9/872-1537)
Playa San Francisco:
A 14km (9mi) jaunt from San Miguel on Cozumel's west coast, Playa San Francisco is one nice sandy spread. And with white sands running for more than 3km (2mi) it's a popular spot, where locals and daytrippers from the cruise ships go to snorkel, relax and play beach games like volleyball. It's a great spot to picnic, or alternatively, pricey food is available at one of several restaurants within reach. If dive shops get your heart pumping, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied here. A little more isolated in nature, Playa Palancar, a few kilometres south, has calm jet-ski-less waters to its credit. It is a beautiful place for a swim.
San Miguel de Cozumel:
Isla Cozumel's only town is San Miguel de Cozumel, and it is where you'll find many restaurants, bars, hotels, tour agencies, banks and other amenities. It is well-equipped to deal with the global influx - you can chow down on food ranging from vegetarian to Mediterranean to local mesquite-grilled chicken.The waterfront Avenida Rafael Melgar is generally bustling with cruise-ship tourists; wander off the track a little for a dose of the vibrant local scene. But before leaving Avenida Rafael Melgar, check out the fine Museo de la Isla de Cozumel, which presents a clear and detailed picture of the island's flora, fauna, geography, geology and ancient Mayan history. Well-scripted signs in both English and Spanish accompany the exhibits. Get your lesson on Coral 101 here before heading out to the reefs. Plaza Del Sol, the town's main square, is a popular spot for strolling, hanging out and people-watching, especially on Sunday evenings when all of the locals seem to be out, soaking up the atmosphere.
El Castillo Real:
About 17km (11mi) from the Carretera Transversal, down the same intimidating road that leads to Punta Molas, are the large Mayan ruins known as El Castillo Real. The archaeological site, as well as the hike-in ruins a few kilometres away called Aguada Grande, are both quite far gone, their significance having blown off into the breeze some time ago. Still, half the fun is in getting there, right? Other ruins of interest include the temple at San Gervasio, which was erected by the Mayans as a tribute to Ixchel, the moon goddess of fertility. Female pilgrims came here from all over the region to pay tribute. San Gervasio sits between San Miguel and the east coast, northeast of the Carretera Transversal.
Punta Celarain:
The southern tip of Isla Cozumel has a postcard-perfect historic lighthouse, which is accessible only via a dirt track 4km (2.5mi) from the highway. From the top of the lighthouse, built in the early 1900s, you get a special all-over view of the island below. Also making the Punta Celarain worth a visit is the on-site navigational museum. If you want to turn this trip into a full afternoon, stop off at some of the isolated beaches on your way - they're just a jump over the sand dunes.
Punta Molas :
Head northeast, fellow traveller, and you'll find yourself at the deserted lighthouse of Punta Molas. But head out in a 4WD, as this point isn't the easiest to reach. If you decide to tackle this trip, fill up that gas tank and be aware of the risk.Once in the vicinity, you'll find some fairly good beaches and some minor ruins. The best camping spot along the road is at the lovely Playa Bonita.
The Museo de la Isla de Cozume:
l (Avenida Melgar, tel. 9/872-1475) showcases endangered species native to the area, the geological origins of this Caribbean island, and wonderful natural history exhibits on local flora and fauna. Head upstairs and learn all about the cultural history of Cozumel, highlighted by displays of archeological finds from the Mayan and Spanish Empires. It is open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Beaches in Cozumel:
On the east side of the Island, is the Playa Chiqueros, a great family beach with water-sports and equipment rentals available as well as a restaurant located at the Playa Bonita Beach Club. If you are in the mood for a bit of adventure, then take a trip to the southernmost tip of the island of Cozumel, the Punta Celarain. Watch the ocean waves crash against the rocky shores and marvel at the old lighthouse on the beach. There are so many great spots on the island of Cozumel to enjoy your passion for diving and snorkeling. Among them are the Santa Rosa Reef¸ San Francisco Reef, Chankanaab Reef, and the Yucab Reef, known especially for its amazing coral displays. There are many outfitters on the island that offer organized diving tours and equipment rentals. If you are an experienced diver, then make sure to carry your dive card with you at all times. Contact Aqua Safari (tel. 9/872-010, or www.aquasafari.com) for more information regarding rental rates and planned dives.
Best Choice for Divers: Experienced divers can take advantage of opportunity to dive with one of Mexico's best dive operators; a two tank dive includes one dive at famed Palencar Reef. Duration 4 hours; price $79; there is also a beginner's scuba diving program lasting two hours for $89.
Best Choice for Non-Divers: Who Want to "Go Deep": A journey to a maximum depth of 100 feet below the surface in an Atlantis submarine for a narrated tour of Cozumel's spectacular underwater environment. This well designed vehicle is air conditioned and equipped with large viewing ports. Duration 90 minutes; Price $90.
Best Choice for Soft Adventurers and Snorkelers: The Ocoee & Snorkel Tour combines traveling around Cozumel in a Jeep convoy with a visit to Punta Sur Nature Preserve and some quality time snorkeling in the Caribbean. Along the way you may also see saltwater crocodiles; all snorkeling equipment is provided. Duration: 5 hours; price $79.
For Snorkelers: An excursion via a 65-foot catamaran to some choice snorkeling sites. The catamaran has a spacious sundeck; there are snorkeling instructors accompanying each excursion and equipment is provided all you need to bring is sunscreen, towel, bathing suit and camera. After snorkeling there is a beach party with free beer, margaritas and soda. Duration: 3 and a half hours; price $55.
Best Choice for Snorkelers and Dolphin Lovers: This unique excursion takes you to Chankanaab Park where you can enjoy some of Cozumel's best snorkeling and also spend approximately 30 minutes in the water with dolphins and dolphin trainers who guide you through the experience. (Minimum age for this excursion is six years.) Duration 3 hours; price $155.
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More Information |
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Useful Links About Cozumel :
Cozumel Travel Information
www.cozumelonline.com
www.cozumelmycozumel.com
www.scubaclubcozumel.com
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