Cozumel Travel Guide Everything you need to know
Read all about the best things to do in Cozumel - Click here
Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world, explore ancient ruins, or simply relax on powdery white sands, Cozumel has something for everyone. In this Cozumel travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the best activities, attractions, and hidden gems that this tropical paradise has to offer. So pack your sunscreen and dive into the ultimate Cozumel travel experience!
Transportation / Getting Around
Positioned in the exclusive gated beachfront community of Costa Del Sol, Cozumel, We’ve Gone Coastal is perfectly situated steps away from the pool and beach. Our exclusive gated community allows for easy access to the beach and with San Miguel only a short car ride away, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the southern hotel zone.
This chic, open concept, modern villa has high ceilings and windows throughout to allow plenty of natural light. Surrounded by the crystal blue Caribbean water and a tropical jungle this luxurious, three bedroom, three bath, 2400 square foot beachfront villa has plenty of space.
WHERE ARE WE LOCATED?
We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel villa is located on the Southern Coastal Road km 12.8 (between the Aquarium and Secrets Aura) in the southern hotel zone, just 8 miles from San Miguel, in the private oceanfront community of Costa Del Sol Cozumel, also known as Villas Del Sol Cozumel. Costa Del Sol is one of a kind on the island and consists of 26 luxury beachfront homes.
Our private community is gated, has 24 hour staff and free parking. Winding pathways lure you to wander through the tropical paradise and up to the edge of the crystal blue Caribbean waters. Our 130 foot pier makes boat pickup or snorkeling off the dock, a breeze. With a picture perfect view from the villa and infinity edge pool, you overlook the sandy beach and Caribbean Sea to realize it is difficult to see where the shoreline ends and the sea begins.
Cozumel Travel Guide : PACKING LIST
Everything about Cozumel is simple and that goes for packing - Check out some of my favorite travel items through the links below.
Phone Charger
Cash, passport, passport copy
Medications: I like to free up luggage space by using this great travel pill organizer.
Waterproof Waist strap pouch or waterproof cellphone lanyard pouch
Insect repellent
Clothing for warm, humid weather- walking shoes, hat, raincoat (a quick rain shower can pop up at any time), flip flops, swimsuits, shorts, clothing for warm weather
CREDIT CARDS / USD / PESOS - Everything in Cozumel is tourist friendly. Most merchants, hotels and restaurants accept USD but will usually give your change in pesos. You can use credit cards in many places like hotels, restaurants and stores but smaller vendors, markets, and beach bars along the east side only accept cash. If you want to bring pesos from home, get the pesos before you leave for Cozumel (request from your bank a couple of weeks early). Avoid exchanging money at the airport, as it is much more expensive. ATM Machines, located in town make it easy to withdraw pesos if you prefer to carry the local currency. We prefer Ci Banco as we have found they have lower fees.
Cozumel Travel Guide:
Transportation / Getting Around
You have several options when planning for transportation from the Cozumel Airport to Costa Del Sol as well as getting around the island.
Shuttle – a shuttle is an easy option to get from the airport to Costa Del Sol or any vacation home rental, hotel or resort. My first 4 times to Cozumel this was my go to as I didn’t plan to leave go offsite often.
Taxi – This is a more expensive option but allows you to walk out of the airport, grab a cab and go. If you plan to stay at the Costa del Sol complex most of the time, a taxi is a great choice because you won’t be paying for a rental car that you are not using. The guards at the security palapa will call a taxi for you any time you may need it.
Taxi drivers carry a rate fee card that you can ask to see. Negotiate the price before you get into the vehicle.
If you are staying at We’ve Gone Coastal and would like to arrange Private Shuttle / Taxi Service while you are on the island, let me know and I can connect you with one of several taxi drivers that can work as a private shuttle. This can be especially convenient if you are transporting 5-8 people.
Rental Car Companies
Avis and Hertz are just outside baggage claim and Budget is just a short walk across the parking lot. This is your best option if you prefer to explore the island on your own allows you to easily make grocery runs, get to restaurants, bars and drive the beach bar loop (referenced in this guide).
If you are renting a car on a site from the US, make sure it includes the mandatory liability or you can just as easily add it when you are renting the vehicle on the island. It runs about 15 dollars a day and it is mandatory. If your credit cards include insurance it likely only covers physical damage to the vehicle, not liability. You can check with your insurance company to confirm but you don’t want to end up in an accident without the mandatory liability in Mexico. There is nothing that can mess up a trip quicker than a trip to the local jail.
Waze and Google Maps work great on the island and are your go-to for getting around by car. Streets are not marked well here and one-ways have no method. Drive cautiously and you should be fine
Driving in Cozumel - Scooters have right of way and the right lane is reserved for them, except for when you are making a right turn at a light or moving over for parking. Always keep a lookout in your passenger mirrors for scooters passing on the right and when moving into the right hand lane to make a right turn.
If you want authentic Mexican Cozumel food, this Is the place! You won’t want to miss CASA MISSION when you are in Cozumel. Fabiola Miranda & her family have owned & managed the restaurant for over 40 years. Amazing food and drinks, beautiful garden and such friendly and wonderful service always make this a treat. Make sure to order a sexy coffee.
Rock N Java Caribbean Cafe - Downtown Cozumel
If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, great burgers and fries or breakfast, ,then you don’t want to miss Rock ‘N Java which has been a staple for Cozumel since 1995. Delicious latte, amazing breakfast, and incredible service. Located on the waterfront, they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and even offer some healthier options, as well. Located right across the street from Mega Supermarket.
Diego’s Tacos
You will find this small open-sided taco stand across from the airport. It’s great for a bite when you arrive or on your way back to the airport. Home-made guacamole, tortillas and garlic habanero sauce make the food here, spectacular. Fish Tacos are amazing!!
Senor Iguanas Restaurant
You will find lots of locals coming here for an afternoon or evening meal, with a great view and where you might run into some friends. This one will take credit cards if the system is up and working well - remember you are out on the fringes of electricity out here. I love to enjoy a beer Senor Iguanas Restaurant and some fish or shrimp tacos while overlooking the water on the wild side, any day at this bar.
The Lobster House
The original Cozumel lobster house serves fresh lobster and seafood. Set in a quaint caribbean atmosphere, enjoy the ambiance and music. Best key lime pie on the island is served at the restaurant and can be purchased to go next door.
Key Lime Pie Factory
If you want to take whole key lime pies with you, pick up a small, medium or large at the Key Lime Pie Factory next door to the Lobster House. I usually get several since they are only open 6-9 pm and have the best key lime pie on the island, hands down!
Money Bar
Good food, great setting, great drinks, great entertainment, and great fun. Family friendly, everyone will enjoy their time here place. Friday evening Happy Hour and live music. This is a great place to watch the sun set and a fun atmosphere with good bands. Open 7am until 9pm.
Alberto’s Beach Restaurant
Great place just to hang out and have a drink and a bite to eat and spend some lazy time on the beach – especially sunset time. Surprisingly, wonderful food! Whatever you order – you will be impressed. You look at it and think it’s just another trap – no, it’s a treat. Service is usually very good. One of the few places you can use US dollars; their exchange rate is favorable. Introduce yourself to boss Jorge, and waiters Fernando and Andres. Open 9 am to 10.pm every day
Asadero El Billy (known as Billy’s)
Good BBQ. Take out only - ribs, chicken, chorizos, cowboy beans, individual aluminum wrapped and grilled potatoes and onions. Meals come with hot sauce, black beans, and spaghetti. CASH ONLY
San Carlos (Pescaderia San Carlos)
Well known for their ceviche, this is my favorite ceviche spot. They make a great fried whole fish as well. Don’t miss stopping by here for a great lunch. It is a casual little spot with some character. The owner Nohoch is a bit of a local celebrity. Well worth the extra effort for this spot off the beaten path.
Buccanos (Buccanos Beach Club or Buccanos At Night)
Buccanos Private Beach Club on San Juan Beach just north of town and features a fresh water pool, beach shore snorkeling and snorkel equipment ( snorkel equipment is included in the entrance fee), beach massage, parasailing, jet skiing, diving, small sundry store, and a full restaurant. Sunday brunch is a hit with the ex-pat community. For fine Dining with a beautiful view of the sunset on the north end of the island, Buccannos at Night is a perfect spot for a romantic or special dinner. The food and presentation are amazing. I recommend Buccanos as final night event, before departing the island or for special date nite. They are also known for their Sunday brunch and pool / private beach.
Novena Ola
Fine Dining restaurant located above the Museum. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. The food, service, view and staff are great. Another good place to watch the sunset.
El Moro
A great neighborhood Mexican restaurant. This one has been around for decades and a great place to go with friends or as a group.
K’ooban Laab
Great tiny restaurant off the beaten path. Fresh pasta and ingredients abound and the mussels and fresh bread … oh my! Fantastic prices. Grab ice cream next door for dessert.
Jeannie’s
Mexican Caribbean food and where lots of locals and expats hang out. They have reasonable prices, an extensive menu and also offer brunch. Jeannie’s has good food, good service, good atmosphere and views of the sea.
Wet Wendy’s
If you feel like dancing, this is a great place to do so. Tuesday, two for one drink happy hour – all day! It’s a fun lively place. Their blended drinks are impressive!. Always crowded when cruise ships are in port; you may want to avoid it – or not.
Crazy King Burrito
Fantastic burritos! Huge burritos - my favorite are the shrimp burritos. Family owned Closed Sundays.
Dick’s Dive
Well known and fun this is a great bar to hang out at. Sunday BBQ.
Le Lechoneria
Le Lechoneria is a family business in downtown Cozumel using their exquisite suckling pig family recipe developed in 1930 for sandwiches and Tacos. We had the Cubano Sandwich, Pork Rib Taco, Cafe Cubano coffee, 2 sodas and Mango smoothie. Absolutely amazing flavor and you could not beat that price. This is definitely a must try!
Guido’s
A great restaurant, considered slightly upscale. They specialize in fish but have great Italian dishes and pizza. They have a great, comfortable dining area in the back. A bit more pricy but is great food.
La Choza Cozumel
This place has been around for decades. They have Mexican and fish. This restaurant is consistent and well-priced. They offer a comfortable setting, excellent staff and is a locals favorite.
Cozumel Travel Guide:
Grocery & Liquor Stores
Groceries
If you are staying at We’ve Gone Coastal, stores are only a short 15 minute drive from the beach villa. Let us know if you would like help to arrange for grocery delivery.
If you prefer to shop on your own for groceries & personal items, your options are Mega and Chedraui (supermarket, grocery stores & department stores all in one) along the Av. Rafael E. Melgar waterfront, Sam’s Club (located a bit inland from Chedraui) or the Mercado Municipal market. All four are located 15-20 minutes from Villas Costa Del Sol.
Mega - Av. Rafael E. Melgar 799, Centro, San Miguel de Cozumel
Chedraui - Av. Rafael E. Melgar No. 1001 (between 15 and 17 South), San Miguel de Cozumel
Sam's Club - Av Andres Q Roo S/N, Maravilla, San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
Mercado Municipal (fresh fish, fruits and vegetables) our “Cozumel Farmer’s market”. Go early to get the best selection. Location: Calle Dr Adolfo Rosado Salas, Centro, San Miguel de Cozumel
We’ve Gone Coastal Guests: Order for Delivery -We can help connect you with someone who will shop for your groceries and deliver to the villa. Use this option to save some time grocery shopping while on your vacation.
Liquor Stores
Liquor/Beer/Wine can be purchased at the supermarket but if you would like a liquor store with more variety, I have included the ones I use below.
La Europea Cozumel a great liquor store located across the street from Mega Supermarket.
Cava Del Duero -Av. Lic. Pedro Joaquin Coldwell 599 B, Centro, San Miguel de Cozumel. This little shop has fantastic prices and a great variety.
Cozumel Travel Guide:
Beaches
The beaches on the western side are the most popularly frequented beaches. Being in close proximity to the ship’s pier and the San Miguel, they are more developed and offer plenty of tourist attractions. The west coast facing into the Mexican Mainland is much more sheltered, with calmer waters.
The east coast is fairly rugged with its rocky coastline largely undeveloped. While the beaches on the western side of Cozumel have a lot to offer, one thing they lack is privacy and silence. If you don’t like crowded beaches and are looking for a secluded private beach, venture onto the the windward side of Cozumel for some of the most remote and picturesque beaches.
You will find plenty of beaches to choose from depending on whether you are looking to relax on the beach, beach comb, or snorkel and none are too far of a drive or taxi ride from Costa Del Sol.
Playa Palancar Beach
One of the best all-around beach spots on the island of Cozumel that is known for water sports, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing and diving is Playa Palancar Beach. Located on the southwestern side of the island (off of the south coastal highway) this white sand beach is about 20 minutes south of San Miguel de Cozumel and can be reached via rental car or taxi. There is no fee to access Palancar Beach; all you need to do is order some food or drinks while you are there. You will want to rent a beach umbrella and lounger if you are staying awhile.
Great for snorkelers, families with kids and those just wanting to hang on the beach.There is very little shade so make sure to take sunscreen.
Take cash because the bars, restaurants and shops don’t take debit or credit cards.
Great basic facilities: restrooms and outdoor shower.
Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available for rental - make sure to rent them to provide a little shade.
Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
El Mirador
This remote beach is a Cozumel landmark located on the rugged eastern coast of Cozumel about 20 miles (30 kilometers) southeast of San Miguel. Accessible by taxi, rental car or scooter, El Mirador is a wild rocky seascape with tide pools, natural bridges and stone spires where you can also enjoy a hike.
Thousands of years of waves pounding against the coral have eroded it into a landscape of rugged beauty. Just 70 yards to the south of El Morador is a natural Jacuzzi you can sit in and watch the bubbles come up from the bottom or the Jacuzzi as the waves roll in.
El Mirador lookout is not a swimming beach. Waves and currents here can be dangerous.
It’s a good idea to wear closed-toe shoes with sufficient traction for climbing on the rock formations.
This part of Cozumel is relatively undeveloped, so there aren’t many service areas nearby. Bring food, water, and other necessities with you.
Parking at the beach is free.
Playa El Cielo
El Cielo in Cozumel, Mexico is accessible only by boat and is translated “Heaven.” You will understand how it got it’s name when you venture into the crystalline waters to snorkel among the hundreds of starfish that frequent here. To describe the water as clear is an understatement, you will truly feel like you are swimming through the clear heavens, among the stars.
Since you can only reach El Cielo by boat you will have to get there on a snorkeling tour. I highly recommend Go Tour Cozumel. Clemente & Isla create an amazing experience and will pick you up from the Costa Del Sol private pier. First snorkel Columbia shallows as you veer down over the top of the reef and then head for snacks in the shallow waters of El Cielo. You will then snorkel among the hundreds of starfish that dot the white sand ocean floor. You may even see a few stingrays.
`Azul Ha (Sunset Beach)
Playa Coronas
Playa de San Martin
Playa Bonita
Chen Rio
COZUMEL TRAVEL GUIDE:
Scuba Diving
Diving in Cozumel is unique for many reasons! Divers head to Cozumel year after year because of its crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, abundant coral reefs, rich history, and convenient location. With so much to offer, it's no wonder that Cozumel is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts from all over the world!
With crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, and abundant coral reefs, Cozumel offers a once-in-a-lifetime diving experience. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, Cozumel offers something for everyone. Cozumel is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an underwater adventure. So grab your gear, and get ready to dive into the best diving in Cozumel!
Preferred Dive Operators:
Check out my blog by clicking the link below, for information on some of the best dive sites Cozumel has to offer.
THE BEST DIVING IN COZUMEL - A Guide for Adventure Seekers
COZUMEL TRAVEL GUIDE:
Watersports
GoTourCozumel Clemente & Isla offer pick-up from our private pier at Costa Del Sol
Snorkel El Cielo - Snorkel Columbia Reef and the crystalline waters of El Cielo in crystalline waters, includes lunch
4X4 Expedition - Explore Northern Cozumel in 4x4 Jeep Wranglers through Mayan Ruins Sea Scooter Tour
Sea Scooter Snorkel - Sea Scooter allows you to snorkel in a different way and takes you to explore the incredible underwater world of Cozumel
Parasailing
ATV riding
COZUMEL TRAVEL GUIDE:
Beach Bar Loop
Cozumel Beach Bar Loop - A Must Do!
Make sure to designate a day for a bar hop tour around the wild side/east side just a short drive across and around the south end of the island to some of the islands best beaches. On the east/south side, you won’t find electricity, houses or resorts so be sure to take cash in dollars or pesos because they can’t take credit cards there. You will find spectacular views, secluded beaches, unspoiled jungle views. Each bar has its own fantastic view of the ocean.
You can arrange a tour, hire a personal taxi driver or drive this loop on your own. If you need a recommendation for a tour or private driver, let us know and we will help you set this up. If you are driving on your own, it’s easy to do in an afternoon. Go hungry so that you can try out the food as well as their yummy drinks. All of the bars are great to enjoy a beer but each one has some specialties to try. There are a few other bars along the way but I have chosen to list my favorites.
The beach bar tour makes a loop so you can choose which end you prefer to start at. Typically, we would start at the far end, or Mezcalito’s, so that we are close to We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel at the end of the tour. If you want to avoid the cruise docks in the afternoon, you can opt to do the tour below, in reverse and start out at Rasta’s Bob Marley Bar.
Mezcalito’s Beach Bar
Mezcalito’s will be the first bar you come to if begin your east side tour of the island off from the Transversal Highway.
This quaint little beach bar has classic Mexican food and bar menu where they have been serving up margaritas, shrimp & burgers since 1979. Set up in a laid back style with hammocks, a few tables and lots of seating at the bar.
Coconuts
Set at the highest point in Cozumel, you can meander up to the jungle cliff bar that overhangs the water and has a phenomenal view. This beach bar has a laid back style with hammocks, a few tables and lots of seating at the bar. There are also a few tables out overlooking the water. In the event of rain, you can take cover here under their huge palapa roof that sits over the bar.
Here, it is all about the fabulous view. Palapa-shaded tables, swaying palm leaves, and music. Parking is available. Open from 10 am - sundown.
Welcome to Miami
Just down from Rasta’s is a favorite of mine, a small beach bar with a few tables and hammocks overlooking one of the most picturesque views of the island. Probably my favorite view. Don’t let a line deter you, It is worth the wait! If you are looking to have the best mojito you have ever had, this is the place. Make sure to also try their “Papa’s Secret.” Drinks are made to order from fresh fruit.
This beach side bar is known by many names … Liquor Box, Welcome to Miami, 25 Hour Bar, Coconut Shack & Mojito House.
Signature drinks…
Mojito, Bloody Mary and Papa’s Secret are made to order with fresh fruit ingredients.
Drinks are made from fresh fruits; fish, crab and lobster are caught each day free diving and taken up to the beach-side kitchen.
I hang out here often just gazing for a few hours enjoying the stunning views of the water crashing into the rocks along the beach.
Rasta’s
Opened in 1987, this bar sits just outside the entrance to Punta Sur National Reserve. At this stop you can enjoy a great view while listening to some reggae music.
Decorated with T-shirts from bar visitors, it is a casual atmosphere with a reggae vibe. Everything you need: great view, drinks, food, music, hammocks or beachside tables and good staff.
OTHER THINGS TO DO
Watch the sunsets
Sunsets are a nightly occurrence that even the locals and the expats never get tired of. Enjoy a sunset from the pool overlooking the water or choose from one of the many restaurants or bars with a great view of the nightly show.
Museo De Cozumel
For some Cozumel island history, you can tour the newly renovated Cozumel Island Museum in a one to two hours. 11 interactive exhibits and two temporary exhibit rooms that display the work of local and international artists, and the history of Carnaval celebrations on the island.
Let the massage therapist come to you
It doesn’t get much better than having the massage therapist come to you for an in villa massage. If you are staying at We’ve Gone Coastal just let us know if you would like us to help you connect with one of our recommended massage therapists.