By Lisa Arcella
Cancun is a huge draw for many vacationers looking for fun, sun, and great food, but I will always opt for the stunning beauty and quiet charm of its sister island, Cozumel.
Cozumel often finds itself as simply a day trip or a brief cruise ship stopover on many itineraries, but you will never regret opting for a longer stay. From my perspective, the tiny, 30-mile long island has it all: proximity to the historic ruins and amenities that Cancun and the Riviera Maya offers plus unbelievable natural beauty, crystal-clear aquamarine waters, and so much to explore above the sea and below.
Any journey to Cozumel begins at San Miguel and its Central Plaza, aptly known as El Centro! Most of the island’s restaurants, hotels, stores, and dive shops are concentrated in or around this area. This is also where cruise ship visitors tend to congregate, visiting dozens of craft and jewelry stores during the day. At night, it’s a gathering spot for locals and visitors to mix and take in free concerts. A great guitar trio played on my first evening, and although many people spontaneously started dancing, I was afraid my lame moves would have me instantly deported!
Instead I opted to save myself from embarrassment and planned for several days of non-stop adventure, and of course, plenty of tan-time, too.
Where to Stay
What can we say? When in Cozumel/Cancun, all-inclusive is the way to go!
Cozumel Palace is only 15 minutes from downtown and a great all-inclusive choice for every traveler’s needs. Top-shelf drinks, 24-hour room service, and situated on a magnificent coral reef—the second largest in the world—are just the start of the privileges of this world-class resort. Plus, you can literally walk out of the door of your room and experience the most amazing snorkeling experience of your life.
If being closer to the action of Cancun is more appealing, I would check out the Gran Caribe Resort, another top notch all-inclusive, with a lovely beach and great restaurants. From Playa del Carmen it’s about a 35 minute ferry ride from the mainland to Cozumel, so you’re near the lovely island and the famous Fifth Avenue shopping district.
What to Do on Cozumel
More like, what isn’t there to do in Cozumel?
The Joy of Chocolate Tour
Chocolate junkies (myself included) find this tour at the Kaokao Chocolate Factory a divine experience! Not only can you learn about how the Mayan civilization developed that delicious beverage we now know as hot chocolate, but you will also make (and eat) your own chocolate bar with the help of a master chocolatier.
Mexico Park & Chankanaab Park
Mexico Park is a great place to get an overview of Mexican history and see very cool replicas of iconic Chichén Itzá, ancient Aztec, Maya, and Totonac pyramids Nearby Chankanaab National Park is a fun beach and adventure park, where you can see dolphins, sea lions, and beautiful botanical gardens as well as snorkel, scuba, and even Seatrek.
San Gervasio Ruins
Cancun may claim Tulum, but there are preserved ruins Mayan ruins in Cozumel at San Gervasio. Historians believe that this is the site of the sanctuary of Ixchel, goddess of fertility.
El Cielo Cozumel
Once you visit, there will be no doubt in your mind why locals call this “Heaven.” A local tour operator took me to the boat accessible only area. It was well worth the trip. A shallow reef, soft white sand dotted with star fish and sting rays at arm’s length make this an ideal place to snorkel.
Palancar Reef
Full disclosure—I’m not a diver. I do know, however, that Cozumel is a mecca for lovers of the sport and any seasoned visitor here will tell you that one of the best spots to visit is Arrecife Palancar (Palancar Reef), where horseshoe-shaped coral heads allow for spectacular sea life viewing and exploring.
Punta Sur Park
I like renting a moped for a few reasons. One, they’re fun, and two, it allows for access to areas not always accessible by car. I hopped on and headed over to the east side of the island. Called the “Wild Side,” this area is more dangerous for swimming, but the views are not to be missed. The best eco preserve on the island is at Punta Sur on the southern tip. The park has a huge lighthouse that can’t be missed, but keep an eye out for alligators and pink flamingos that also call this area home.
Horseback riding
Easily the best thing I did during my last visit to Cozumel was to head out to Rancho Buenavista and take a fantastic ride through jungles and along the beach on the back of a horse. The guides carefully help you find the horse that’s right for you, and of course, they know the territory. It was so exciting to see a huge orange iguana staring back at me during a venture through the forest.
Where to Eat
There are so many great places to eat on Cozumel. One of my favorites is Casa Denis. Situated in a little yellow house just a stone’s throw from the plaza, it offers this little yellow house yummy Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil (spiced pork baked in banana leaves).
Alfredo di Roma
Alfredo di Roma inside the Hotel President InterContinental is a really good Italian restaurant where they will create authentic Fetticcine Alfredo right at your table! Be sure to make a reservation if you decide to visit.
For inexpensive and delicious Mexican food, I loved Burritos Gorditos in San Miguel. The shrimp burrito is literally a dream come true. There aren’t a lot of seats and no alcohol is served, but it’s definitely worth the trip.
Coconuts is a really fun place to discover when you head out of town. It’s super casual with reggae playing in the background and some of the best cervezas, fish, fajitas, and more.
Head south of the border now for great deals from your local travel agent!
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