How to Plan The Perfect Cozumel Day Trip

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Last Updated on November 23, 2024 by sydabroad

If you are planning a Cozumel day trip, then this guide is for you. 

Cozumel is a beautiful island in the Caribbean off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. It’s a popular cruise ship port and is known for its incredible diving spots, beaches, and vibrant blue water. 

I’ve been to Cozumel a few times now and in this article I’m going to share all of the best things to do in Cozumel and everything you need to know before you visit. 

Whether you are taking a day trip to Cozumel, stopping here during a cruise, or spending a week on the island, this guide will be helpful for planning your trip. 

Looking for more guides to Mexico?

• 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Tulum 
• How to Visit Tulum on a Budget 
• How to Spend a Long Layover in Mexico City
• The Best Beach Clubs in Cabo
• The Best Beach Clubs in Tulum
• 4-Day Itinerary to Mexico City

This post is all about how to plan the perfect Cozumel day trip. 

Cozumel Day Trip – The Basics 

Currency = Mexican Peso

The currency in Mexico is the Peso. (MXN)

1 USD = 18.09 Pesos

Because Cozumel is a popular cruise port, many places on the island will accept card payments. However, you will need to have cash on hand for smaller purchases at local markets or if you are visiting less touristy parts of the island. You’ll find ATMs in downtown Cozumel and at many hotels.

Language = Spanish

The national language in Mexico is Spanish. However, you will find that it’s easy to get around with English because Cozumel is a common tourist destination. I do suggest brushing up on your Spanish to be respectful to the locals. I use the Duolingo app to practice new languages.  

Phone & Internet 

The phone and internet service can be a bit spotty on the island. Many hotels and Airbnb’s will have wifi available. You shouldn’t have issues with phone service in downtown Cozumel.

However, when exploring more remote parts of the island, the service will be spotty. I suggest having offline Google Maps downloaded so you can easily navigate if you find yourself in a remote location without service. 

Daily Budget 

Although not the cheapest place in Mexico, Cozumel is a pretty affordable destination to visit. You’ll find that more of the popular tourist activities can be pricer but all and all, it’s easy to visit Cozumel on a budget. Many travelers have spent less than 50 USD per day in Cozumel. 

Tipping in Cozumel 

In Cozumel, it’s customary to tip at restaurants, bars, taxi drivers, and your local guides if you choose to take some sort of tour. It’s typical to tip around 10% to 15%.  

Is The Tap Water Drinkable?

No, do not drink the tap water in Cozumel. Drink bottled water instead.  

Where is Cozumel?

The island of Cozumel is located in the Caribbean Sea about 10 miles off the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in southeastern Mexico. 

How to Get to Cozumel? 

Cozumel has its international airport making it one of the easiest islands to visit in Mexico. You can fly directly into Cozumel International Airport (CZM) or Cancun. From Cancun International Airport (CUN), it will take about 3 hours to reach Cozumel. 

If you are flying into Cancun, the most affordable and efficient way to reach Cozumel is to take the ADO bus to Playa del Carmen and then catch the ferry to Cozumel. 

Alternatively, many people arrive in Cozumel on a cruise ship. For those who want to visit a variety of different places, a cruise is a great option. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Cozumel?

It’s essentially always summertime in Cozumel, making it a great place to visit year-round. However, keep in mind that hurricane season is from May to November and high tourist season is from December through April.

The best time of the year to visit Cozumel is from the end of April through June – the temperatures will be warm and there are typically fewer tourists. 

How to Get Around Cozumel

The best way to get around the island is by car. I suggest either renting a car or booking a private driver during your trip. Although Uber is in many other parts of Mexico, it’s not in Cozumel. 

You can also use taxis, which are a great way to get around. However, if you plan on stopping at multiple places around the island it’s great to book a private driver that will take you to all the spots. It’s affordable and makes transportation a breeze!

How to Plan The Perfect Day Trip to Cozumel 

Alright, here is how to plan the perfect day trip to Cozumel, Mexico. You can take some of these recommendations and add them to your itinerary in whatever way works for you. But these are certainly the best things to do in Cozumel! 

Morning Snorkel Trip 

Start your morning with an early breakfast and then get ready for a morning snorkel trip. Cozumel has some of the best snorkeling in Mexico so it’s a must to add to your itinerary. 

The coast of Cozumel borders the Mesoamerican Reef – the second-largest reef in the world. The first is the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. That being said, Cozumel is an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving. 

There are a variety of different tours you can book, I’ve linked a few below. 

Lunch at Coconuts Restaurant 

After your morning snorkel trip, you can head to lunch at Coconuts Restaurant. You guys. This is one of my favorite spots ever. 

Coconuts is a bar and grill on the island with the best ocean views. The atmosphere is seriously incredible – you could easily spend all day here sipping on margaritas and enjoying the view. 

Not only is the atmosphere perfect, Coconut’s has some of the most delicious food. You can’t go wrong with anything on their menu but my favorite is the shrimp quesadillas. 

Find it here: Carretera Costera Oriental, 77645 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico. 

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Make a Stop at Mojitos Factory 

Your next stop on the island is Mojitos Factory. This is another must. Mojitos Factory is a little beach bar in the middle of nowhere along the beach. It’s right along the road, making it a convenient stop if you are driving by. 

This truly is the best mojito I have ever had. I couldn’t find an exact address but I’ve linked their Facebook page here. Mojitos Factory is well worth a spot on your Cozumel itinerary.

Paradise Beach Cozumel

You can find beautiful white sand beaches in Cozumel. Arguably the best beach in Cozumel is Paraside Beach. This is a family-friendly beach with water sports, an inflatable water park, and restaurants. 

Honestly, if you are coming in on a cruise and want to avoid massive crowds, I would skip this. I visited during a weekday when there were no cruises docked on the island and it was so much fun. You will essentially have the place to yourself. 

Additional Beaches in Cozumel: 

• Playa Palancar 
• Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park 
• Playa Mia Grand Beach Park
• Dzul Ha Beach 

Explore Downtown Cozumel

You can’t visit the island without spending time in Downtown Cozumel. Here you can shop for souvenirs, stroll along the waterfront promenade,  and dine at various local restaurants. 

There are also some cultural attractions in downtown Cozumel such as the San Miguel Church and the Cozumel Museum.  

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Pirate Ship Dinner Cruise 

A fun way to wrap up your Cozumel day trip is to do a pirate ship dinner cruise. It’s essentially a pirate ship booze cruise with an amazing surf and turf dinner included. Okay, this may sound silly but it was the most fun way to spend the evening! 

There is music, dancing, and amazing ocean views. The best part was the steak and lobster dinner was absolutely delicious. It’s a unique way to spend an evening on the island and it’s nice being on the water. Trust me, it’s worth it. 

Alternative Activity Recommendations in Cozumel 

• Dolphin Discovery at Chankanaab National Park: If you are looking for a fun activity in Cozumel, head to Chankanaab National Park to visit Dolphin Discovery. Dolphin Discovery offers the best experience of swimming with dolphins.  
• Beach at Chankanaab National Park: For a relaxing afternoon, spend time relaxing at the beach at Chankanaab National Park. 
• Catamaran cruise: There’s nothing better than a catamaran sunset cruise. Book a tour here.
• ATV Ride: Book an ATV tour here.  
• Margaritas! For good cocktails in Cozumel visit Thirsty Cougar, Pancho’s Backyard, or La Choza Cozumel.

Are you visiting Tulum? Here are the best beach clubs in Tulum!

Day Trip to Cozumel Map 

Below is a map with all the spots mentioned in this article. 

Where to Stay in Cozumel 

If you are spending more than a day here, find a place to stay in Cozumel below. 

How Many Days in Cozumel?

Although you can see a lot during a day trip to Cozumel (it’s a small island), I think a weekend (2 to 3 days) here is ideal. This way you aren’t rushed on activities and have plenty of time to enjoy all that this island has to offer.

Don’t Forget to Pack 

• Sunscreen: Don’t forget face sunscreen and lip protection.  
• Turkish towels: I love Turkish towels because they fold up so small and dry quickly. 
• Beach bag 
• Bikini cover-up 
• Sunglasses 
• Book or a Kindle 
• Camera: My favorite cameras to travel with are the Canon G7X, a Polaroid, and a disposable camera. 
• Cash: Make sure you have cash because most places in Cozumel will prefer cash over a card. 

I hope you enjoyed this post about how to plan a day trip to Cozumel. If you have any questions, comment below, DM me on Instagram, or email me at sydabroad@gmail.com.

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