Cozumel
There’s nothing better than beauty on land and sea
Cozumel is the biggest and most populated island in the Mexican Caribbean. It’s characterized by its crystalline waters so clear you can see the coral reefs that surround the island, which put Cozumel on the map for underwater enthusiasts. You won’t find a place like this anywhere else; in and out of the water you’ll find spectacular natural beauty.
Tourism in Cozumel is well-known for offering a wide variety of activities: marine, land, tours, boat rides, five-star hotels, inns, hostels, first-class and value restaurants, vehicle rentals, handicrafts and shopping in general. Another attraction when visiting Cozumel is the obligatory ferry trip from the mainland. There are two options: the tourist ferries offered by the “Ultramar” and “Mexico” companies. The ride on one of these boats is very pleasant with live music on the ship’s deck. Without a doubt, Cozumel is one of the Mexican Caribbean’s most beautiful destinations with its virgin beaches rarely visited on the other side of the island, where you can find reefs and views of open sea.
How to get there
From Cancun by air: Only a 20-minute flight on Mayair, with 5 roundtrip flights per day on comfortable planes with a capacity for 19 people. This company flies every two hours starting at 7 am to Cancun and every two hours starting at 8 am to Cozumel, ending with the flight to Cozumel at 7 pm. It also flies to southeastern Mexico from Cozumel to Puerto de Veracruz via Cancun, Merida and Villahermosa on a daily roundrip flight. (For more information go to www.mayair.com.mx).
LAND TRANSPORT:Modern buses called ADO will take you from Playa del Carmen to Cancun and vice versa for aproximately $10, a journey of about 45 minutes. The bus station in Playa del Carmen is only two blocks from the pier.
FERRY: A new fleet of fast ships, with a regular schedule and convenient service can get to Cozumel in about 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen’s pier. Boats start 6 am from Cozumel and the last one leaves from Playa del Carmen at 10 pm. Get tickets in advance or right before the boat leaves. There’s enough space on board so don’t worry about not getting on. A roundtrip ticket Playa del Carmen-Cozumel-Playa del Carmen is $16 per person.
Suggestions and Information
On arrival you’ll find staff ready to give you tourism advice and sell timeshares. These companies aren’t part of the island’s tourism department. We have several recommendations for you to indulge all your senses and experience the island 200%: spend the day snorkeling with rays, explore the San Gervasio ruins or swim with hundreds of starfish at the “El Cielo” beach, and try something you’ve never done before. Enjoy yourself on the beach but be aware: it’s not a nudist beach nor can you drink alcohol after 5 pm. Don’t swim after eating or drinking alcohol, wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen. Beach flags: green means it’s ok to swim; yellow means be careful; red means swimming is prohibited. Remember, it’s important to respect the area you’re visiting and keep it clean.
Services
Banks, water transport, money exchange, medical services, pharmacies, churches, maps, restaurants, hotels, catering, shopping, movie theaters, hospitals, clinics, assistance, event services, public restrooms, parking, handicrafts, tour guides, diving, spa, golf, nature tours.
Nearby places
Other interesting sites are Isla mujeres and Holbox, which share the same natural beauty but unique experiences. Cancún, Chichen Itzá archealogical site and one of the wonders of the world, and Playa del Carmen.