Things to do in San Miguel de Cozumel

Terry

From Terry's guidebook

Xcaret is among the best theme parks in Cancun and Riviera Maya, thanks to its more than 50 natural and cultural attractions for the whole family. Swim in its underground rivers, observe an immense variety of species in the Aviary, the Butterfly Pavilion, and the Coral Reef Aquarium, and be dazzled by the country's iconic biodiversity. Enjoy delicious typical cuisine and experience colorful folklore through the Xcaret México Espectacular presentation, a performance with more than 300 artists.

Vero

From Vero's guidebook

An iconic eco-archaeological park located about 1 hour from Casa Chenxen. Xcaret blends nature, culture, and adventure with underground rivers, snorkeling areas, wildlife habitats, beaches, and one of Mexico’s most impressive night shows celebrating history and traditions. Plan a full day and stay for the night show. Buy tickets online in advance and bring water shoes for the rivers. Perfect for kids and families, and ideal for first-time visitors to the Riviera Maya.

Sebastian & Jessica

From Sebastian & Jessica's guidebook

We highly recommend visiting Xcaret for a full day of nature, culture, and fun all in one place. Located just 15–20 minutes from ARKAH, it’s incredibly convenient and easy to fit into your stay. You can spend the day exploring underground rivers, beaches, wildlife, and cultural experiences, and we strongly suggest staying for the evening show, Xcaret México Espectacular—a truly impressive performance that brings Mexico’s history and traditions to life. A full day is usually enough if you arrive early and stay through the show, though there’s so much to see that some guests wish they had more time. Either way, its proximity to ARKAH makes it one of the easiest and most worthwhile experiences in the area.

Elijah

From Elijah's guidebook

Chankanaab is one of Cozumel’s most popular beach parks and a great place for guests of all ages to spend the day. Known for its beautiful turquoise water, snorkeling, beach access, and tropical atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax or enjoy island activities all in one location. The park offers excellent snorkeling with easy water access, beach loungers, restaurants, walking paths, and opportunities to see marine life up close. Guests can also enjoy dolphin experiences, sea lion shows, botanical gardens, and scenic photo spots throughout the park. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing beach day, Chankanaab is a fun and convenient destination to experience the beauty of Cozumel.

Albert

From Albert's guidebook

Approx 20 minutes from downtown San Miguel Carretera Costera Sur 9Km This water park whose Mayan name translates to “Little Sea,” a reference to the natural lagoon, offers diving and snorkeling tours, dolphin encounters, a beautiful beach, and loads of extra activities including zip lining, a tequila factory, gardens, and nature trails. It’s also a great place to dive, with conditions perfect for beginners. With beachfront palapas and restaurant, prepare to spend a perfect day out. Admission is around $21 for adults and $14 for children, and there’s wheelchair accessibility and lifeguards on duty.

Coline

From Coline's guidebook

Chankanaab (In Mayan means “little sea) is located inside Cozumel´s National Marine Park. Enjoy the beautiful park, snorkeling, diving or swimming w/ dolphins. 21USD entrance. 9AM-4PM. Closed sunday.

Kippal Cozumel

From Kippal Cozumel's guidebook

Cozumel is a mostly undeveloped island rife with ancient ruins and history. Explore the best of the island on a private tour and delve deep into the Mayan heritage that permeates through the island. Visit the San Gervasio ruins, see historical monuments right on Casitas Beach, relax on other scenic beaches, and enjoy a tequila tasting all over the course of a few hours.

Manuel

From Manuel's guidebook

Step into Cozumel’s ancient past at the San Gervasio Ruins, a sacred Mayan site once dedicated to the goddess Ixchel. Wander through jungle-wrapped temples and stone archways, feel the island’s spiritual energy, and explore one of the most important archaeological treasures in the Mexican Caribbean. There's a fee to enter the park.

Raul

From Raul's guidebook

If you enjoy ruins this is for you. The archaeological site of “San Gervasio” is the most important and well studied prehispanic site of all the documented settlements in Cozumel Island. It is named after its location in the former “San Gervasio” ranch. This archaeological site has been considered the center of pilgrimages where the Mayan worshiped the Goddess “Ixchel”. Besides being a Mayan sacred center it was a strategic site for commerce and the politic development of the area. The area is constituted by six architectural sets and other isolated temples joined by a network of white roads called “sacbés” They are of great interest and give us an idea of how the Mayan developed their religious, administrative and daily life activities.

Angelica

From Angelica's guidebook

Sit outside on the balcony, overlooking the sea and enjoy your breakfast. Located on the 2nd floor of the museum, you are above the hustle and bustle on the main street.Food is good and diversified.

Erick

From Erick's guidebook

The Island Museum offers a complete view of Cozumel in four exhibition halls. Conceived as an instrument of historic and ecological education, bits of pieces will take you through time, since the formation of the island to present day. You will have an unforgettable experience since we always have temporary and permanent expositions by local and international artists.

Ana

From Ana's guidebook

Learn about Cozumel’s history, culture, art and more. It is very worthy to visit the museum of Cozumel, located downtown.

Alicia

From Alicia's guidebook

5 minute beach walk from the villa. Open until 5pm. Downtown also has music, dancing, and singing later at night in the center square.

Adrian

From Adrian's guidebook

Nice beach on the west coast, this is a beach club with restaurant, bar and a big swimming pool

Michael

From Michael's guidebook

Located on the sand 100 yards south of our condo, rent jet skis , sea toys, eat, drinks, massage, relax etc

Silvia

From Silvia's guidebook

We had trouble picking an option for your final meal in Cozumel, so we went with the place that makes the best pan (bread) on the island. They serve lovely coffee and the food is great, but the baked products are the star of the show. Whether you eat them there or take them away, don’t walk out without some baked goods from the baskets. Maple Bakehouse also serves a very good eggs Benedict, with proper hollandaise sauce and properly-poached eggs. The restaurant is small and gets crowded to the rafters inside, so think about getting a seat on the sidewalk and watch people going by. Even outside, service here is professional. We’ve added El Maple to the already-crowded list of our go-to place

Jessica

From Jessica's guidebook

$-$$ Coffeehouse, Baked Goods, Cafe If you love french pastry this is the place they have the best croissants in town! great for breakfast and lunch! Is a small place hard to find a table!

Jasmine

From Jasmine's guidebook

Maple Bakehouse is a local favourite for breakfast, coffee and their delicious baked goods. Sit inside the air conditioned cafe or on the outdoor patio. Closed Mondays.

Casa CooLas

From Casa CooLas's guidebook

Known for huge margaritas, live music, and high energy.

Adrian

From Adrian's guidebook

Incredible tasty margaritas! Wednesday there is live salsa music

Jasmine

From Jasmine's guidebook

Great atmosphere. Amazing frozen cocktails! Good food selections to please everyone. Giant burritos, chimichangas, all kinds of sliders, the best fried chicken sandwich on the island. Live music most nights and dancing.

Sara

From Sara's guidebook

GROCERY & MISCELLANEOUS STORE -- can pay in USD or pesos here. Always have a wide variety of groceries, pharmacy, miscellaneous items, clothing, liquor, etc.

Alicia

From Alicia's guidebook

The store is called "MEGA". It has everything from groceries and liquor to clothing. Similar to a Target in the United States.

Jasmine

From Jasmine's guidebook

Bigger grocery store Mega Soriana is located downtown. Big pharmacy area. Good selection of imported deli meats and cheeses. Great butcher. International aisle. Good selection of wine, alcohol and beer for sale.

Elizabeth

From Elizabeth's guidebook

Large grocery store with wide variety of food, pharmacy and household items including souvenirs.

Villas Colibri Suites And Bungalows

From Villas Colibri Suites And Bungalows's guidebook

The best Pizza & Authentic Craft Beer If you are looking for true local fresh-made pizza Cerveceria Punta Sur it´s the place to go. They are the first micro-brewery in Cozumel. A couple of the must-try items in their menu: Lion Fish Pizza Amber Beer Freshly Made Guacamole

Jessica

From Jessica's guidebook

Great pizza place and also take out! try the caramelized onion and lion fish pizza.

Jodie

From Jodie's guidebook

Great spot if you like draft beer and pizza! Check out the local art work on the walls for sale.

Alicia

From Alicia's guidebook

Great views, fajitas, margaritas. Highest point on the island.

David

From David's guidebook

If you are looking for a nice day trip, rent a car, or hire a taxi and go to the East side of the island. On the way stop at Coconuts for some breath taking photos and good lunch

Paul

From Paul's guidebook

Located on the east side of the island this is great place to stop if you are making the trip around the island by car or taxi. It's a funky beach bum bar set up on a rocky bluff over looking the ocean. Cash only and can be a bit rowdy but its fun!

Sara

From Sara's guidebook

Large grocery store just down from Mega on the main street. Sometimes better produce can be found here.

Angelica

From Angelica's guidebook

The closest supermarket from the house, less that 1 minute walking. Supermarket open everyday 7am-11pm You find everything. I love this supermarket because they offer a very large choice of wine, gourmet items and organic option. You can also find plenty of ATM machines here in case you need cash!

Coline

From Coline's guidebook

Supermarket open everyday 7am-11pm You find everything. I love this supermarket because they offer a very large choice of wine, gourmet items and organic option.

Kathy

From Kathy's guidebook

Located on the oceanfront road south of Calle 11, across from Plaza Las Glorias Hotel. Plenty of parking. Instore bakery, deli, large selection of fresh fruits/vegetables, liquor/beer, and full line of groceries.

Adrian

From Adrian's guidebook

SkyReef is Cozumel’s newest Salsa spot and the only place to dance Salsa on Sunday afternoons. Enjoy Snorkeling, beach, bar, and restaurant all day. Aquino and his Band Aquanile play from 3-5 pm. They have a very high energy show, highlighted by trombone maestro Jorge Aquino, Cozumel’s favorite Cuban musician. Get there early to find a table near the dance floor. Located at Carretera Costera Sur Km 10.

Stay Cielo

From Stay Cielo's guidebook

From recent guest... Sky reef beach 🏖️ club was so much fun. We got there early (rented a Nissan buggy from HTL for $66 US). Drove around the Island 🏝️ stopping at several places. We spent around 3 hrs at Skyreef. No pressure. We bought a couple of drinks was all. No charge to snorkel. Can rent life vest for $10 ea. Beautiful spot for a low cost!!

Jhake

From Jhake's guidebook

SkyReef is just down the road from the house. It has amazing snorkelling from the beach with tons of fish. They also usually run a promotion where they give you a snorkel + flippers, a beer, tequila tasting, and a short massage for $20 USD. I have not tried the food yet, but the main reason I go is to snorkel.

Elizabeth

From Elizabeth's guidebook

Swiss-Italian. Superb food and daily specials. An old favorite on the island. Wood-fired oven, garden and indoor seating. Best lasagna and sea-food pasta in town.

Martha

From Martha's guidebook

I love their seafood, but they also have pizza and pasta on their menu, so there are options for those who don't like seafood. very popular place among locals. Catch of the day a la calabrese, a pitcher of sangria and the carpaccio with garlic bread as an appetizer is what locals usually order.

Casa CooLas

From Casa CooLas's guidebook

Beloved for Italian fare, wood-fired pizzas, and a romantic garden setting.

Elizabeth

From Elizabeth's guidebook

Firefly in Mayan. This lovely restaurant has been a local favorite for many years. It has a warm and friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss the chocolate soufflé and creme brûlée. Weekend Steak nights are popular and so are Thanksgiving, Xmas and New Years Dinners. These last 3 need a special reservation.

Coline

From Coline's guidebook

Mediterranean restaurant with delicious food like pizzas, tapas, pastas and fresh fish and meat. Beautiful atmosphere, with garden. Try the duck pizza!

Thomas

From Thomas's guidebook

A fine dining establishment that has beena Cozumel tradition for over 20 years! Owned and operated by a couple from New York who give a lot of attention to the clients. Great selection of Mediterranean food.

Shannon

From Shannon's guidebook

Convenience of being just across the street. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. American and Mexican menu. I love the burrito with green sauce. It is huge so you could share! Shrimp cocktail and any of the ceviches. Cesar salad, spicy chicken wings, club sandwich, fajitas....can you tell Ive been here a few times?! Happy hour every day from 4-7pm. Live music Thurs-Sunday 6-9pm. Kid friendly. Stairs to water. Some of best snorkeling on the island.

Jennifer

From Jennifer's guidebook

Money Bar is another family favorite! We often ride our bikes here and enjoy snorkeling. Enter at the ramp, go toward the right a few yards then head out to the buoys where the best snorkeling is. Then head toward the pier where you can also jump off. The current can be strong at times. We often bring out kayaks and paddleboards for the day. The food for lunch and dinner is fantastic and the service is great. They don't hound you like other places.

Jhake

From Jhake's guidebook

Great food, huge portions, happy hour 2 drinks for the price of 1 everyday from 5-7pm. Also live music Thursday - Sunday night. Great snorkelling from the beach aswell with rentals available. Recommend you try the Chicken Burrito and the nachos!

Jessica

From Jessica's guidebook

Best local ceviche! if you like something fresh you can order fish or shrimp ceviche! is also a good place to go and eat fried fish!

Pao

From Pao's guidebook

Best friend fish on the island, best ceviches ever. They fish at night and serve the fish the next day. Is fresh and has amazing flavour.

Raul

From Raul's guidebook

Off the beaten path. Pick out your fresh fish and they will prepare it for you.

Casa CooLas

From Casa CooLas's guidebook

A lively downtown bar known for great cocktails, upbeat energy, and prime people-watching. Conveniently located on the main road near the ferry terminal.

Jasmine

From Jasmine's guidebook

Awesome Frozen cocktails! Great food and atmosphere! Located right on the main street across from the ocean. Sunset views. Live music most nights.

Paloma Isabel

From Paloma Isabel's guidebook

If you are looking for a frozen margarita and live music, this is your place to go.

Sara

From Sara's guidebook

Fun bar with food right on the main street across from the ocean! They frequently have live music at night and the staff is always fun and friendly!

Coline

From Coline's guidebook

My Favorite place to eat the Mexican classics, affordable. Tip: ask for the menu of the day (in spanish: Menu del día :) ) In the Yucatan Peninsula they have one classic dish per day. On Monday it's Frijol con Puerco (Beans with porc>> delicious) On Sunday it's Cochinita Pibil (Go and order to see what it is ! )

Darrell

From Darrell's guidebook

Great Place! we had amazing whole grilled Red Snapper here. Not on the menu but ask.

Raul

From Raul's guidebook

Lovely locally owned restaurant. Specialties are margaritas and their family secret dipping sauce. Enjoy going here for lunch or dinner then walking over to the town square to take in the atmosphere.

Nele

From Nele's guidebook

Take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel and rent a scooter to explore the island. Discover hidden beaches, coral reefs, and enjoy the slower pace of island life.

Julia

From Julia's guidebook

Snorkeling in El cielo, Cozumel .El Cielo, a strip of white sand at the southern tip of the island, which belongs to a protected natural area. It is known this because its turquoise waters make it possible to see the thousands of sea stars that inhabit there. Snorkeling with starfish in Cozumel is one of the most unforgettable experiences you could live in the Riviera Maya

Alberto

From Alberto's guidebook

Cozumel, a mostly undeveloped Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea, is a popular cruise ship port of call famed for its scuba diving. At Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, there's diving spots around a section of the Mesoamerican Reef and the Museo Subacuático de Arte’s submerged sculptures. Chankanaab is an eco park surrounding a lagoon with underwater caverns, home to dolphins, manatees and sea turtles

Paul

From Paul's guidebook

The Eco Park has an entrance fee but its worth it. Centered around an inlet filled with small islands, this eco park has a wealth of wildlife to see. Faro Celarain is the white lighthouse at the very south end of the island and is open for climbs to the top, with scenic views down the beach & over the sea. You can continue on along the water to one of three beautiful beaches. Each has a small restaurant and you can rent snorkel gear and cabanas and just chill. If you are planning to stop note that the park closes at 4:30 or 5:00 so its best to go early.

Darrell

From Darrell's guidebook

State park on South tip of island. beautiful beaches and waters to enjoy for the day. Entry is $16/person. Can explore the light house, take the boardwalk into swamp and catch a glimpse of a croc sunning. food, drink, chairs and umbrellas available at the beach. can book a bout tour of swamp to check out Crocs and other wild life.

Karen

From Karen's guidebook

A day trip to Punta Sur is a must! See if you can spot flamingos and crocodiles in the lagune on the right with the watch tower. Takes stunning pictures from the light house. Eat at the restaurant with the pink lounge beds, Anemona de Mar, that one is the best. Our family always enjoy the trip in the mangrove with the small boat. We always learn something new! Best to rent a car for the day and maybe combine this with a tour around the island to see the stunning east/wild side of Cozumel with kilometers of beaches.

Tavo

From Tavo's guidebook

The clear waters of this windward beach are protected by a large rock formation in the bay. Boasting the safest swimming on the windward side, this beach is often dotted with beachcombers and campers. Enjoy a lunch of ultra fresh fish or seafood at the Chen Rio Restaurant and linger to enjoy the spectacular sunsets. From Cozumel down town, head east along the Costera Sur highway to Parque Punta Sur, then turn north for 3.5 miles until the restaurant sign. From El Cedral, you will be very close!!!

Paul

From Paul's guidebook

Located on the east side of the island this beach will be very crowded on Sundays as it’s a favorite of the locals. There is a little cove and sand beach and also areas where little kids can play in the water. Great place to fly kites if you have one. There are also a bunch of little restaurants that offer food and drinks. Across the road at Chen Rio is a small pond where you can often see Crocodiles.

Adrian

From Adrian's guidebook

Amazing wild beach on the ast side coast of Cozumel, perfect place to eat some grill fish, have a nap on the beach and do a walk through the long beach

Martha

From Martha's guidebook

You must take a boat tour or rent a boat to get there, it is called El Cielo or The sky because of all the star fish you get to see while snorkeling. On the tour you also get to snorkel at Colombia and some others coral reefs. The price would vary depending on the boat and the services included and it's between USD 30 and USD 90 per person or USD 350 to USD 2000. the duration will also vary from 3 to 6 hours.

Humberto

From Humberto's guidebook

This is a must do in Cozumel, this is one of the most amazing places in the island, go just if is good weather, you will see how clear the water is, the name cielo comes from the starfish you can see, cielo means sky and the starfish would be the stars you see in the sky... you can only get there by boat, there a few tours that can take you there. We can help you set you up this tour with a trustable operator.

Claudia

From Claudia's guidebook

Reachable just by sea, rent a boat and spend a beautiful day in the middle of the sea, looks like a pool!!!