What To Do In Cozumel

Getting To Know Cozumel, Mexico

Situated in Mexico’s Riviera Maya region on the northeastern Yucatán Peninsula, Cozumel has everything, from famously pretty beaches to exciting markets to coastal cuisine. Due to this perfect balance of natural and cultural riches, I’d argue that no Mexico vacation would be complete without visiting this Caribbean coast gem. It’s the best of the nation, all in one place. If you want to understand Mexican food, history, traditions and ecology, Cozumel has your answers.

Before you find yourself at the Cozumel cruise port, here’s everything you need to know about the destination:

● State: Quintana Roo.

● Currency: Mexican peso.

● Average temperature: 80 degrees.

● Miles from mainland Mexico: 10 miles.

● Size (length): 29 miles.

● Economy: Tourism.

● Landscape: Plains, low hills, tropical jungle, beaches and coral reefs.

● Traditional crops: Cassava, tropical fruits, henequen and corn. 

● Fun fact: Cozumel is Mexico’s largest inhabited island.

What To Do In Cozumel

If you’re wondering what to do in the Cozumel cruise port, you’re in luck — the options are plentiful. Waterbugs will rejoice in the plethora of underwater activities, while foodies will find themselves in a culinary paradise worth exploring. Cozumel is known for choice, so the true struggle won’t be finding something to do, but rather, narrowing it down.

Here’s what to do in Cozumel’s cruise port without an excursion that’s too complicated or far away:

Water Activities

Try your hand at snorkeling at any of Cozumel’s famous sites along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. This 700-mile-long structure is the Western Hemisphere’s largest barrier reef, so if you even remotely like snorkeling, it’s not to be missed. Expect plenty of tropical fish and marine mammal species along the way.

The El Cielo Cozumel sandbar and Playa el Cielo, part of Arrecife de Cozumel National Park, is especially brimming with starfish and sea turtles. Make sure to hit the Palancar and Colombia reefs before you get there, as they’re on the way and likewise teeming with life. If you like to scuba dive, head to the Santa Rosa Wall for deeper waters and biodiversity.

If you’d rather do something more laid back, take a catamaran tour and look for sharks, rays and other sea creatures from the comfort of the boat. Or, you can always take a swim anywhere on the beach. A day on the water is the ultimate Cozumel day trip, so regardless of your vacation style, I highly recommend that you carve out some time for a little time on or in the sea.

Terrestrial Adventures

Cozumel is literally a jungle island paradise, so there are tons of lush corners and wilderness to enjoy. Turn up the adrenaline with a jeep or ATV tour of significant sights along the coast, or get wild at the Punta Laguna Monkey Reserve. If you love nature trails like I do, I recommend heading straight to Punta Sur Eco Beach Park.

This destination is great because you can enjoy wildlife like crocodiles and turtles across 2,500 acres. Punta Sur Eco Beach Park also has the Celarain Lighthouse, and, as a nautical history enthusiast, I appreciate that there’s a maritime museum inside. At this Cozumel island museum, you can learn not only about the pirate and sailing heritage of the region, but also that of the Maya.

Cultural Deep-Dives

Put on that “Indiana Jones” hat and explore the San Gervasio Mayan ruins or those at El Cedral. The San Gervasio ruins have a beautiful history, having been a site where Mayan women traveled on pilgrimages. It was here that they worshipped Ixchel, the ancient goddess of the moon, weaving, medicine and fertility. El Cedral, meanwhile, is among the oldest settlements on the island and was a place of spirituality and agriculture. Today, locals celebrate El Cedral’s legacy with yearly festivals.  

After you’ve had your fill of history, appreciate the modern culture of San Miguel de Cozumel, where you can shop for artisan goods and take in the beauty of the waterfront. If you just haven’t had enough learning, cool off in the Museum of Cozumel Island.

Embrace Your Chill

There are so many places to kick back and unwind in Cozumel if you’re seeking sanctuary while docked in the Cozumel cruise port. Local beach clubs offer inclusive fun, like Mr. Sancho’s and Playa Mia. These are fabulous places to mingle, sip on colorful drinks, splash around or spend some serious time lounging.

Come 2026, Royal Beach Club Cozumel will be the ultimate memory-making destination. Expect a little bit of everything:

● Glittering pools.

● Great bites.

● Snorkeling.

● Swim-up bars.

● Cabanas.

● Kayaking.

● A street market.

● Fun experiences like tequila tastings and cooking classes.

This is where to go if you’re seeking exclusive-meets-inclusive, chill-meets-thrill, vibrant vacation day vibes. It’s definitely set to be one of the most fun things to do in Cozumel.

Key Takeaways: Tips For Cozumel Cruise Port Visitors

The list of what to do in Cozumel’s cruise port is lengthy, as the destination has long been a favorite for vacationers. The jungle plants, scenic beaches and incredible food are just a combination that can’t be beat. However, there are some things that every Cozumel cruise port visitor should know so that they can fully enjoy this Mexican paradise:

What to Pack For Cozumel

Depending on what time of year you come, your packing list might vary (for example, during the wet season, you’ll probably want even lighter clothing and extra rain gear). Here are the basics:

● Several swimsuits.

● Lightweight and breathable clothing (shorts, shirts, dresses, sun-protected long sleeves, etc.).

● Comfortable walking shoes (I like water shoes that work on the beach, land and sea like Chacos).

● Sunglasses.

● Sun hat.

● Bug spray.

● Reef-safe sunscreen.

● Small backpack or bag. 

● Sundries (skincare and bodycare, soaps, haircare, brushes, dental care, etc.). 

● Charger. 

● Hand sanitizer. 

● If you’re not fluent in Spanish, a translation app or a pocket Spanish dictionary. 

● Pesos and credit cards. 

● Waterproof baggies for your valuables and electronics. 

● Packable rain poncho. 

● Also nice to have: Camera (can just use a phone or go all out with a waterproof camera), binoculars, snorkeling gear, aloe for any sunburns, swim cover-ups and a travel diary. 

Tip: As a travel writer, I always roll my clothes rather than fold them because it allows for more space.

Safety in Cozumel

The U.S. State Department advises American travelers to “exercise increased caution” throughout Cozumel’s Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Though the island isn’t specifically among the named destinations in these warnings, here are three ways to stay safe:

1. Don’t wander alone after dark and stick to well-lit areas.

2. Wear sunscreen.

3. Listen to your guide if you’re on an excursion.

Spending in Cozumel

Perhaps the most important money-related tip when it comes to Cozumel travel is to bring cash. A lot of vendors only accept it, and, just like anywhere you travel abroad, using a credit card can come with some hefty international fees. 

Otherwise, just make sure to note the 10-20% standard tipping rate at most businesses. If you’re going out, you’ll want to factor that in. And, in case you’re wondering, yes, you can barter at artisan goods vendors. Just don’t try it at any food-related business, including restaurants and grocery stores — you won’t get a lower price, and it’s considered rude. 

Time Management

There’s a lot to do in Cozumel. You’ll want to make sure that you’re carving out enough time for it all, keeping in mind the weather and your priorities. I recommend deciding on one to two priority activities before you even get off the ship. That way, you don’t waste any time and know exactly where to head when you pull into port.

If you want to go to the beach at all, just make sure you leave the most time for that. Check the weather to see when the best time to go will be. Additionally, some of the other best things to do, like visiting Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, will likewise take up a considerable amount of time.

What Not to Do in Cozumel

There are dos and don’ts in every destination. The trick is knowing and understanding them before you get there. Here’s what not to do in Cozumel:

●Haggle at restaurants or grocery stores.

● Avoid speaking Spanish.

● Under-tip.

● Skip interacting with locals.

● Not visit the beach.

Book Your Royal Caribbean Cozumel Cruise Today

Taking a cruise to Cozumel is special. It comes with jaw-dropping views of the sea, Mayan culture, tropical coast and swaying palms. You’re guaranteed a good time, from the great food to the endless beaches.