Cozumel Travel Guide 2025
Your Island Adventure Starts Here
Ready to dive into paradise? Whether you're craving reef dives, wild beaches, fresh tacos, or sunset cocktails, our Cozumel Travel Guide 2025 has you covered.
Discover the island’s best beaches, scuba sites, beach bars, and Dory-approved detours. From smart packing tips to our famous Beach Bar Loop, scroll on for everything you need to plan your barefoot escape.
Table of Contents
1. Things to Do in Cozumel
2. Scuba Diving in Cozumel
3. Best Beaches in Cozumel
4. Beach Bar Loop & Local Bites
5. Best Sunset Spots
6. Packing Tips & Getting Around
7. The Blowholes
8. Where to Eat & Drink
9. Watersports Adventures
10. Grocery & Liquor Stores
11. In-Villa / Condo Massage
12. Plan Your Stay
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This guide is brought to you by
We’ve Gone Coastal Vacation Rentals
Oceanfront villa + condo stays in Cozumel
✍️ Curated by Dory - Cozumel travel blogger, diver, and host who shares the island like a local.
1. Things to Do in Cozumel
From reef adventures to wild beaches and cultural treasures, Cozumel’s experiences are as vibrant as its coral reefs. Whether you're into snorkeling, tacos, ruins, or reef dives you’ll find plenty of island magic waiting for you.
🧜♀️ We’re always adding new favorites, but here’s your must-do starter list:
Top Attractions
Snorkel or Dive the Mesoamerican Reef
The second-largest reef in the world is right here!
👉 Check out our Cozumel Guide for Adventure SeekersExplore Punta Sur Eco Park
Climb the lighthouse, visit the crocodile lagoon, and relax on a quiet beach in this protected natural reserve.San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
Step back in time at one of Cozumel’s most important ancient Maya sites.
👉 Book San Gervasio Ruins & Beach Break
Hidden Gems
Cozumel Blowholes - hear the ocean “breathe”
The Cozumel Blowholes
Where the ocean breathes and waves put on a show!
👉 Read: Cozumel’s Best-Kept Secret – The BlowholesNeighborhood Taquerías
Follow the locals and your nose to these tucked-away taco spots that are worth the detour.Sunset Spots
Watch the sky light up from your beachfront villa, condo, or any west-facing shoreline restaurant.
Family-Friendly Fun
Traveling to Cozumel with kids can be a breeze with a little bit of planning.
Submarine Tours
Dive below the surface without getting wet!
👉 Atlantis Submarines CozumelCozumel Pearl Farm
Hidden and magical - you’ll need a boat, but it’s worth it!More Ideas for Traveling with Kids
👉 Dory’s Cozumel Travel Tips for Families
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip!
Looking for an off-the-beaten-path gem?
Ask us about El Cedral - a tiny village with deep roots, a small church, and some of the friendliest locals around. Grab a cold cerveza, catch a festival if you’re lucky, and take a peek into island life beyond the beach.
2. Scuba Diving in Cozumel
Cozumel is a diver’s dream — with crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral gardens, and a steady current that lets you drift effortlessly like a mermaid. 🌊
Whether you’re newly certified or have hundreds of dives logged, Cozumel offers world-class underwater adventures for every level. Explore legendary dive sites like Palancar Reef, Santa Rosa Wall, Columbia Shallows, and the adrenaline-pumping Devil’s Throat at Punta Sur.
From colorful swim-throughs to towering coral pinnacles, there’s magic waiting below the surface.
Want more dive site tips?
👉 Dive into Cozumel’s Top Reefs - Your Ultimate Adventure Awaits
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip
• Dive with Julio – Local, friendly, and fantastic for personalized small-group diving
• Jungle Divers Cozumel – Passionate team, great for families and group adventures
• Dressel Divers at Iberostar – Resort-based, perfect for divers staying in the south
• Dory’s Dive Directory – Browse more operator reviews and dive site recommendations
3. Best Beaches in Cozumel
Cozumel’s beaches range from wild and rocky to powdery and calm and every one has its own vibe. Whether you want to lounge with a margarita or explore tide pools, there’s a beach with your name on it.
Cozumel’s coastline has something for everyone from wild, windswept shores to calm, swimmable sands. Whether you're sipping a margarita, exploring tide pools, or just chasing seaglass, there's a beach with your name on it. 🐚
Here are some of my recommended spots:
• Playa Bonita - Wild waves, epic views, and a cliffside beach bar where the ocean crashes below. Great for photos and that untamed Cozumel vibe.
• Chen Rio - Protected swimming area, ideal for families. You’ll find calm waters, palm-lined sands, beachside restaurants serving fresh seafood … and even a resident crocodile that can sometimes be spotted in the nearby marsh (don’t worry, he keeps to himself). 🐊
• Playa de San Martin - Quiet and windswept, this one’s perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and those looking for peace and salty solitude.
• Paradise Beach - One of Cozumel’s more developed beaches. Think loungers, cocktails, water toys, and full-service amenities. Touristy, but fun!
• Punta Morena - Rustic and laid-back with big surf and a beach bar. Not ideal for swimming, but unbeatable for ocean views and relaxing to the sound of crashing waves.
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip!
Look for sea glass along Playa de San Martin after a windy day - it's one of the best local spots for beachcombing!
4. Beach Bar Loop & Local Bites
This road trip is a must! Cozumel’s east side is wild, untamed, and full of flavor - and that’s exactly what makes the Beach Bar Loop so magical. It’s a coastal drive full of colorful, boho-style beach bars with hammocks, margaritas, music, and crashing surf.
*If you’re staying at our We’ve Gone Coastal Villa or Condo vacation rental and need help arranging a tour, driver, or car rental, just let us know!
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip!
• Mezcalito’s - First stop heading east from the north end of the island . Laid-back, killer drinks, wild waves, and a great photo op by the big chair.
• Coconuts - Clifftop views, sassy signs, breezy vibe. Great for guac and cold drinks.
• Playa Bonita Bar - Rustic and windswept. Great seafood right by the surf.
• Punta Morena - Cozy, sandy spot with hammocks and grilled fish tacos.
• Rasta’s (El Pescador) - Final stop at the southern tip. Reggae, sand between your toes, and tropical drinks.
👉 Tip: Designate a driver or take a tour. It’s a fun day, just stay safe while chasing the sunshine. Bring pesos (or USD), rent a jeep or hire a driver, and let the good vibes guide you.
5. Best Sunset Spots
Cozumel’s west coast faces the setting sun which means unforgettable golden hour views every evening. When the sun sinks into the Caribbean horizon, the sky ignites with color - and you’ll understand why sunset hour in Cozumel is pure island magic. Here are a few of my favorite places to soak it all in:
Favorite Places to Catch the Sunset:
• Avenida Rafael Melgar - Walk along the seafront promenade and find your own perfect spot.
• Sky Reef or Sereno Bar - Order a mojito and watch the sun melt into the sea.
• Money Bar - Snorkel by day, sunset cocktails by night.
• La Monina - Great food and cozy atmosphere, right on the water.
• We’ve Gone Coastal Villa or Condo - Oceanfront views right from your patio or infinity pool.
Stay with us at We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel — beachfront bliss from your private villa or condo.
👉 Book Direct & Save | 💙 Follow us on Facebook
6. Packing Tips & Getting Around
What to Pack - Dory’s Essentials
Whether you’re diving, exploring, or just soaking up sunshine, here’s what I never leave behind:
☀️ Sun Protection Must-Haves- 👉 Reef-safe sunscreen (required at parks)
- Bug spray (especially for jungle tours)
- Sunglasses & wide-brimmed hat
- Lightweight cover-ups or layers
- Flip-flops or water shoes
- 2+ swimsuits
- 👉 Beach or Turkish towel
- 👉 Reusable water bottle
- 👉 Adult snorkel set
- 👉 Kids snorkel set
- 👉 Dry bag or waterproof pouch (perfect for boat days)
- Travel-size toiletries in a zip-top bag
- Beach tote or bag
- Optional: Snorkel gear (rentals are available)
- 👉 Travel pill organizer
- Medications & must-haves
- 💵 Money Tip: Bring pesos for taxis, beach bars & tips. Use Ci Banco ATMs or order pesos from your bank in advance for the best exchange rate.
Getting Around Cozumel
Getting to and around the island is a breeze - whether you’re beach bar hopping or headed to your We've Gone Coastal villa or condo.
- Taxis: Easy, reliable. Confirm your fare before you hop in.
- Rental Cars & Scooters: Explore the east side or Beach Bar Loop at your own pace.
- Airport Transfers: Private transfers help you skip the wait - ask us for recs!
- Walking: San Miguel is super walkable and full of shops, eats, and ferry access.
👉 Need help booking transportation? Just let us know, we have trusted local connections to make it easy! 💙
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip
Getting Around Cozumel
Want to cruise to secret beaches and taco shacks on your own time? Renting a car is the easiest way to see it all — especially those hidden gems on our map! We love using Discover Cars for easy airport pick-up, great island-ready deals, and the freedom to explore Cozumel your way. 🚗🌴
👉 Book with Discover Cars – Cozumel Rental Deals
Dory’s Tip: Book early for the best rates and smooth island cruising!
7. The Blowholes
Don’t miss one of Cozumel’s best-kept secrets - a wild, windswept spot where the ocean literally breathes through ancient coral rock formations. This natural phenomenon is a Dory favorite! 🐠
Located on the island’s untamed east coast, these blowholes shoot salty mist into the air as waves crash beneath the porous limestone. It’s raw, rugged, and totally unforgettable and since it’s not marked on most tourist maps, it still feels like a hidden gem.
How to Get There
Head east across the island toward Playa San Martin, then follow the coastal road south.
Look for natural coral rock flats and signs of spray near Playa San Martin.
You’ll hear the whoosh before you see it!
👉 Read my Blowholes Guide: “Where the ocean breathes Cozumel’s - Cozumel’s Wild Side”
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip!
Wear sturdy sandals, water shoes or tennis shoes - the coral is sharp and uneven. If you’re hunting sea glass nearby, keep your eyes on the tideline … and your ears tuned for the next ocean whoosh.
🌴 Our Google Map of Cozumel Favorites - Yours to Explore!
We’ve taken the guesswork out of finding the best spots on the island. From tacos that’ll make your toes curl to trusted grocery stores and secret local gems - our custom Google Map, “We’ve Gone Coastal Favorites,” is your personal island treasure guide.
🗺️ Open our map & start exploring: 👉 We’ve Gone Coastal Favorites on Google Maps
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning sun-chaser, this guide helps you dive into island life like a local. Flip-flop your way around town, try something new, and save the map for easy access during your stay.
✨ If you discover something fabulous we haven’t marked yet - let us know! We love adding new island magic to the map.
✨ Want more tips on Navigating Around Cozumel? 👉 Click here
8. Where to Eat & Drink
Cozumel’s food scene is authentic, flavorful, and full of local charm. Whether you're craving street tacos, upscale seafood, or cocktails with your toes in the sand, the island of Cozumel delivers. 🌮🍹
From casual bites to romantic dinners, here’s where I love to dine:
Dory’s Dining Faves
• La Perlita - Best lionfish tacos on the island. Casual, local, and always fresh.
• Buccanos at Night - Upscale dinner with Caribbean views and craft cocktails.
• Casa Denis - The oldest restaurant in Cozumel, serving classic Yucatecan dishes.
• El Palomar - Romantic setting in a historic home with a dreamy waterfront vibe.
• Kondesa - Lush garden courtyard with creative local cuisine and standout drinks.
• Pescadero San Carlos - Authentic, local seafood spot tucked away from the tourist buzz. Best ceviche on the island!
• Sereno’s - Sophisticated rooftop dining with sunset views, fusion flavors, and fabulous cocktails. A perfect date night.
Craving fresh fish tacos by the beach, an ice-cold cerveza in a hammock, or a private chef crafting your dream island dinner right in your condo or villa? Cozumel’s culinary scene is as colorful as its reefs - from roadside taquerías to sunset fine dining.
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip: Post-Dive Eats
Looking for the best food after a dive? Head to Doña Chely, a local favorite for juicy chicken, pork chop, or beef tacos, plus comforting sopas. Want to try something truly authentic? Order the Sopa Especial - it’s a post-dive reward you won’t forget.
📍 View on Google Maps – Doña Chely Cozumel
👉 Explore Dory’s Cozumel Food Guide
Want the full foodie scoop?
👉 Private Chef or Dine Out in Cozumel - The pros, cons, and my go-to chefs.
👉 Where to Eat & Drink in Cozumel - From bars to taco’s
👉 5 Must-Try Cozumel Restaurants - My handpicked island favorites.
As your Cozumel hosts, we’re happy to help with local drivers, private chefs, dive trips, or massage bookings.
💙 Follow our island adventures on Facebook or book your stay now at We've Gone Coastal Cozumel.
9. Watersports Adventures
Dive Shops & Watersports – Cozumel Travel Guide
Diving in Cozumel is truly one of a kind - spectacular reefs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life make this island a diver’s dream. Whether you're brand new or a seasoned pro, Cozumel’s world-famous sites offer unforgettable underwater experiences for all skill levels.
With drift dives along Palancar, deep walls like Santa Rosa, and adventure dives at Devil’s Throat, you’re about to discover some of the best diving on the planet. So grab your gear and dive in, you’ll quickly see why so many divers return year after year!
Trusted Dive Shops in Cozumel
• Dive with Julio – Personalized small-group diving, expert local knowledge, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. Great for groups, couples, families or looking for a more personal dive experience.
• Jungle Divers Cozumel – Passionate team, eco-conscious, and ideal for group trips or families. They’re known for a welcoming vibe and safe, fun dives.
• Dressel Divers at Iberostar – Convenient for divers staying at Iberostar Cozumel or at an all inclusive in the far end of the southern hotel zone, with structured schedules and professional service. Dory’s Dive Directory
• Dory’s Dive Directory – A roundup of Cozumel’s top dive operators, reef reviews, and Dory-approved tips for every skill level. – A roundup of Cozumel’s top dive operators, reef reviews, and Dory-approved tips for every skill level.
Watersports Adventures
Snorkeling & Watersports in Cozumel
You don’t have to be a scuba diver to enjoy the water in Cozumel - this island is a playground for ocean lovers of all kinds! From crystal-clear snorkeling spots to sunset catamaran sails and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), there’s no shortage of ways to get salty.
Whether you want to float lazily above coral reefs, zip across the sea on a jet ski, or paddle into a Caribbean sunrise, Cozumel has you covered.
Top Watersports & Excursions
• Snorkel El Cielo - Accessible by boat only, this sandbar is famous for starfish, stingrays, and impossibly blue water.
• Catamaran Sunset Cruise - Sip a cocktail while sailing past the island’s western shore, a magical way to end the day.
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) - Paddle the calm western shoreline in the early morning or rent gear near town for a breezy afternoon float.
• Clear Kayak or Glass-Bottom Boat Tours - See reef life from above with no diving required! Great for kids and non-swimmers.
• Jet Ski & Parasailing Adventures - Want a little thrill? Several beach clubs and tour operators offer rentals along the hotel zone.
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip!
Want something unique? Book a private catamaran to El Cielo - some even include ceviche, snorkeling gear, and an open bar. It’s a splurge, but one of the most memorable ways to experience Cozumel’s wild blue side.
🌊 Featured Cozumel Adventures
🔍 Invisible Boat Tour - Glide across the sea in a fully transparent boat, perfect for spotting fish, coral, and hidden reefs without getting wet.
👉 Secure your spot on the Invisible Boat Tour
💦 Jet Ski Tour Experience - Enjoy a private jet ski adventure that includes beach club access, a delicious lunch, and time to snorkel the vibrant reefs.
👉 Book Your Jet Ski Adventure
⛵ Private Catamaran to El Cielo - Sail in style on a luxury catamaran to El Cielo - Cozumel’s magical sandbar filled with starfish, crystal waters, and sunshine.
👉 Book Your El Cielo Catamaran Experience
🌊 Submarine Exploration - Descend 100+ feet below the surface aboard a real submarine with Atlantis Cozumel - a surreal way to see the reef without getting wet!
👉 Atlantis Cozumel Aventura en Submarino de Día & al Atardecer
Snorkel Trips to El Cielo with GoTour Cozumel
Sail over turquoise waters to Cozumel’s most magical spot, El Cielo, where starfish and stingrays await beneath the surface! GoTour Cozumel also offers ATV jungle tours, sea scooter rides through reef zones, and parasailing adventures above the Caribbean.
P.S. If you’re staying at the Villa, they’ll pick you up right from the private dock!
10. Grocery & Liquor Stores
Grocery Shopping in Cozumel
Cozumel has you covered whether you’re stocking up for a week at the villa or just grabbing fresh goodies for a sunset picnic on the beach! Stocking your villa or condo is easy. Here’s where to shop like a local:
Groceries: Aki
Mega Soriana - A large, modern supermarket with everything from fresh produce and cheeses to wine, sunscreen, and beach gear. It’s centrally located and has an easy parking lot.
Chedraui - A local favorite with a great bakery, meat counter, and liquor section. The layout feels a little more familiar if you’ve shopped in Mexico before.
Aki - Budget-friendly and a bit more basic, but great for staples like tortillas, rice, canned goods, and snacks.
Oxxo - Cozumel’s version of 7-Eleven. You’ll see them everywhere. Great for quick drinks, chips, and anything you forgot at the bigger store.
Fresh Markets & Produce StandsMercado Municipal
• Mercado Municipal – Cozumel’s central open-air market. Great for fresh fruits, veggies, meats, and tortillas — all with that true local flavor.
• Street Produce Vendors – Found throughout the island. Look for juicy pineapples, avocados, and whatever’s fresh that day!
LiquorSam’s Club
La Europea - Great wine and tequila selection. Often has tastings!
Sam’s Club - For staying longer or traveling with a group and buying in bulk * Don’t forget your membership card!
Cava Del Duero - offers a great selection at excellent prices.
💙 Dory’s Treasure Tip!
Need a few cold beers fast? Head to Oxxo or any small corner store for singles or six-packs. But for a special bottle of wine or smooth sipping tequila, La Europe, Cava Del Duero and Sam’s Mexico are your island go-tos. Cheers!
Let us take care of the shopping! We can connect you with a trusted local grocery shopper who delivers directly to your villa or condo - fresh, fast, and fridge-ready.
Just let us know in advance, and start your vacation stress-free. 🍍🌞
11. In-Villa / Condo Massage
You’re in paradise so why not indulge a little? Treat yourself to a soothing massage right at your villa or condo.
Whether you’re craving a relaxing Swedish massage, deep tissue relief, or a couples session to unwind together, a trusted local therapist can bring the spa to you. Pure island bliss, no shoes required.
You’re in paradise… so why not indulge a little? Treat yourself to a soothing massage right at your villa or condo -- no shoes, no travel, just pure island bliss.
Whether you’re craving a relaxing Swedish massage, deeper therapeutic work, or a couples massage to unwind together, trusted local therapists can bring the spa experience to you. Many offer coconut oil, essential oils, and tranquil island energy, right from the comfort of your oceanview patio or breezy living room.
Want a recommendation?
👉 Ask us after booking and we’re happy to connect you with massage therapists who our guests rave about!
Follow our adventures, beach bar discoveries, and underwater finds over at 👉 Facebook @WeveGoneCoastalCozumel
And when you’re ready to book, click here to reserve your island home.
12. Plan Your Stay
Click the image to Check Availability and Book Today!
Dreaming of ocean views, easy beach access, and local island magic? Stay with us at We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel, where you can choose between our oceanfront villa or condo - two dreamy stays perfect for every travel style.
Whether you’re a beach bum, a scuba junkie, or a taco-chasing explorer, our locations make it easy to soak up the best of the island.
Choose Your Island Home
We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel Condo
Downtown luxury with ocean views, pier access, and walkability to restaurants. Steps from the Caribbean Sea and walking distance to shops, dive boats, and fabulous dinner spots.
We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel Villa
Experience the ultimate oceanfront getaway in our private villa. Private beach, infinity pool, dive pier, full kitchen - perfect for families or groups.
Your barefoot beachfront escape — ocean views from We’ve Gone Coastal Cozumel Villa.Need help booking activities, drivers, or in-villa services? Just ask — we’re your island connection! 🌴
Getting Around Cozumel Is a Breeze
You’ve landed in paradise… now how do you get around this beautiful island?
Whether you're cruising the Beach Bar Loop, diving world-class reefs, or heading into town for tacos and souvenirs, getting around Cozumel is easy and stress-free from either of our prime locations.
Stay central. Stay coastal. Stay barefoot and happy.
Interested in more places to eat and drink around Cozumel? Check out my full guide below!
🍴 Discover Where to Eat & Drink in Cozumel🌴 Island Adventures Await!
Want even more ideas for adventure, chill time, and off-the-beaten-path fun?
Explore the full guide packed with island secrets, local favorites, and can’t-miss moments!
🌟 Explore Things to Do💙 With love from We've Gone Coastal Cozumel
Where your island dreams come true, one sandy footprint at a time.
— Shannon (aka Dory) 🐠
