Last updated by Kennedy Stadler: October 18, 2021
Why travel to Cozumel? In short, it's without a doubt one of the most bucket-list-worthy Mexican islands out there. Its chill vibes, stunning landscapes, amazing culture and close proximity (45-minute ferry ride) from Playa del Carmen make it an irresistible Mexican destination. Since it's just a coconut's throw away, you can't not go there.
A Diver's Paradise
The number of places to experience vibrant, colorful fish and phenomenal coral reefs won’t fit into this tiny paragraph. However, a few of our fav places include Cozumel Reefs National Park, Chankanaab National Park and Columbia Reef. You’ll be wowed in a way that defies articulation. Take the plunge and see.
Views from Cozumel coral reefs. (Photo by: @kezfod)Jaw-dropping beaches
Talk about total beach bliss. Here are the deets to getting the most out of Cozumel beaches. The eastern coast is rocky and unprotected, and there’s only one road that leads to the beaches–total seclusion and tranquility. Playa Chen Rio is shallow and surrounded by lush flora, so it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Playa Bonita has sugar-white sand and azure waters–gentle waves make this a good place to steal away for some privacy, and history buffs should check out the small Mayan ruin nearby.
On the west coast, there are two sandy stretches of paradise. Playa Corona, a well-known dive spot, boasts spectacular underwater scenery and has beach huts for layin' low. Playa Uva Sur is a little more upscale, and has spots on the sand where you can lounge on cozy sunbeds and rent clear-bottom kayaks. Allegro Cozumel also has a stunning beach, especially since Palancar Reef (south west) is just a seashell's toss away for fantastic diving and snorkeling.
Imagine spending a day at the Allegro Cozumel beach? (Photo by: @krystallee_diver)Tranquil and eclectic vibes all around
Cozumel is not only known for calm and tranquil vibes, but it also has an eclectic feel that's oh-s0 charming. There's a wide variety of creative arts to be seen around the island, from paintings to sculptures to murals and more. Stop by Hotel Flamingo to see the stunning watercolors by Cozumel artist, Galo Ramirez.
The Pangea Seed Foundation created a group of sea wall murals that help educate and raise awareness within the local and tourist communities about the plight of the ocean and the life that calls it home–you won't want to miss these. While you're exploring all Cozumel has to offer, don't forget to stop and look around for some incredible murals and symbolic sculptures that are in local parks, along the streets and on buildings.
One of the many colorful murals on the side of a building in Cozumel (Photo by: @sparkx_a)Mystical Mayan ruins
A special place to explore in Cozumel is the San Gervasio Mayan Archaeological Site, located just over 4 miles east of San Miguel de Cozumel. While it’s no Chichen Itza, it’s definitely worth the visit. It was built as a sanctuary to the Goddess Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and healing. It was popular for Mayans to visit once in their lifetime on a type of pilgrimage. Not sure if you can get the same vibes from these edifices these days, but it’s fun to wander around amidst the jungle and take Insta-worthy pics.
So who's up for a vacay to Cozumel? Check out some awesome things to do on this island paradise and start planning your getaway today!
