2-Day Adventure-Filled Cozumel, Mexico Excursion

Cozumel, Mexico

2 days

Scuba diving for turtle spotting
Beach with natural sinkhole nearby
Cozumel dolphinarium
White lighthouse
Statue dedicated to the Mayan Snake Queen

About Cozumel, Mexico

Experience the tropical paradise of Cozumel, Mexico, a vibrant island known for its rich Mayan history, world-class diving spots, and pristine beaches. Explore the ancient ruins of San Gervasio, a sacred Mayan site, or dive into the clear waters of Palancar Reef, home to a diverse marine life. Enjoy the island's natural beauty at the Chankanaab National Park or unwind on the sandy shores of Playa Mia Grand Beach. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine, shop for local crafts in the bustling markets, and immerse yourself in the lively local culture. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Cozumel offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Cozumel's Underwater World and Cultural Heritage

Morning

Start your day with a refreshing dive at one of Cozumel's famous coral reefs. The island is renowned for its scuba diving spots, offering a vibrant underwater world to explore.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch at a local eatery. Try the local cuisine, which includes dishes like ceviche, tacos, and fresh seafood.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon visiting the Cozumel Museum, where you can learn about the island's rich history and culture. The museum features exhibits on the island's natural and cultural history.

Dinner

Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can enjoy the sunset while savoring delicious Mexican cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing stroll along the San Miguel Boardwalk, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, a significant archaeological site on the island. The ruins offer a glimpse into the Mayan civilization that once inhabited the island.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas, chiles rellenos, and pozole.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Chankanaab National Park, a natural reserve that offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and exploring botanical gardens.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering panoramic views of the island. Enjoy the island's fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Cozumel Nightlife scene. Enjoy live music, dance performances, and local drinks at one of the island's popular nightspots.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Cozumel Museum

1
Cozumel Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Cozumel.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
San Miguel Boardwalk

2
San Miguel Boardwalk

A bustling area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the ocean. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the local culture.

Attractions
Entertainment
Food and Drink
San Gervasio Mayan Ruins

3
San Gervasio Mayan Ruins

These ancient Mayan ruins are a significant archaeological site and were once a hub of worship for the goddess Ixchel.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Chankanaab National Park

4
Chankanaab National Park

A natural park that features a beautiful beach, a botanical garden, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving. It's also home to a replica of a Mayan village, providing a unique cultural experience.

Attractions
Parks
Beaches
Tours
Cozumel Nightlife

5
Cozumel Nightlife

Cozumel's nightlife offers a variety of entertainment options, from lively bars and nightclubs to quiet beachside lounges. It's a great way to experience the local cuisine and music.

Entertainment
Food and Drink
Cozumel Reefs

6
Cozumel Reefs

A popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving due to its clear water and abundant marine life.

Attractions
Tours
Sports

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cochinita Pibil

Cochinita Pibil

A traditional Mexican slow-roasted pork dish from the Yucatan Peninsula of Mayan origin. It's a popular dish in Cozumel, typically served with tortillas.

Tacos al Pastor

Tacos al Pastor

A popular street food in Cozumel, Tacos al Pastor are made with spit-grilled pork, served on tortillas and often accompanied by pineapple, onions, and cilantro.

Chiles Rellenos

Chiles Rellenos

A classic Mexican dish, Chiles Rellenos are large chili peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, battered and fried. They are a favorite in Cozumel.

Ceviche

Ceviche

A seafood dish popular in the coastal areas of Mexico, including Cozumel. It's made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Guacamole

Guacamole

A traditional Mexican dip made from ripe avocados, cilantro, lime, onion, and tomatoes. It's a staple in Cozumel and is often served with tortilla chips.

Enchiladas

Enchiladas

A popular dish in Cozumel, Enchiladas are corn tortillas rolled around a filling and covered with a chili pepper sauce.

Churros

Churros

A sweet dessert popular in Cozumel. Churros are fried-dough pastries, often sprinkled with sugar and served with a side of chocolate for dipping.

Tequila

Tequila

A distilled beverage made from the blue agave plant, native to Mexico. Tequila is very popular in Cozumel and is often served straight or in cocktails.

Margarita

Margarita

A cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, often served with salt on the rim of the glass. Margaritas are a favorite drink in Cozumel.

Horchata

Horchata

A traditional Mexican drink made from rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Horchata is a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Cozumel.

Michelada

Michelada

A Mexican cocktail made from beer, lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, and peppers. It's a popular drink in Cozumel, especially as a hangover cure.

Pozole

Pozole

A traditional soup made from hominy (dried corn kernels), meat, and garnished with shredded lettuce, chili peppers, radish, onion, lime, oregano, and tostadas. Pozole is a popular dish in Cozumel, especially for celebrations.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cozumel, Mexico is during the dry season, from November to April. During these months, the weather is warm and there is less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island. The peak tourist season is from December to March, so if you prefer a quieter vacation, consider visiting in November or April.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 5

Mon

Constitution Day

March 18

Mon

Benito Juárez's Birthday Memorial

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

July 7

Sun

General Election Day

September 16

Mon

Independence Day

October 1

Tue

Inauguration day

November 18

Mon

Revolution Day Memorial

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Cozumel. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and around the island. This option gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Remember to drive on the right side of the road, as in the rest of Mexico.

Taxis are readily available throughout Cozumel. They can be hailed on the street, or you can ask your hotel to call one for you. Taxis do not have meters, so it's best to agree on a fare before you start your journey.

Renting a scooter is a fun way to explore the island. It's best suited for shorter distances and can be a great way to see the sights at your own pace. Helmets are provided and should always be worn for safety.

Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in Cozumel, especially for those staying in the downtown area. There are several places where you can rent a bike for the day or for your entire stay. It's a great way to get some exercise while exploring the island.

Cozumel has a public bus system that runs around the island. It's a cheap and efficient way to get around, especially if you're on a budget. The buses run regularly and stop at most major tourist attractions.

Walking is a great way to explore the downtown area of Cozumel. The town is quite compact and most of the major attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance.

Ferries run regularly between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen on the mainland. This is a great way to explore more of the region if you have the time. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Cozumel. However, this may change in the future, so it's worth checking before you travel.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ MXN

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 065; Fire: 068; Police: 060

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Cozumel, Mexico as a first time visitor

1

Cozumel is an island located in the Caribbean Sea off the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Mexican Peso, but US dollars are widely accepted.

4

Cozumel operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST).

5

It's important to drink bottled water, as tap water may not be safe for consumption.

6

The climate is tropical, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Rainfall is common from June to November.

7

The average temperature ranges from 70°F (21°C) in winter to 85°F (29°C) in summer.

8

Sunscreen is a must, as the sun can be very strong. However, be sure to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the local coral reefs.

9

Cozumel is known for its scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. If you plan to participate, ensure you have the necessary certifications and equipment.

10

It's customary to tip for services in Cozumel. A tip of 10-15% is standard in restaurants.

11

Public transportation is limited, so consider renting a car or bike, or taking a taxi.

12

Cozumel is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

13

The island is home to many unique species of wildlife. Please respect the local fauna and flora.

14

Hurricane season runs from June to November. It's important to check the weather forecast and have a plan in case of a storm.

15

The island operates on a 110-volt electrical system, the same as the United States.

16

If you're planning to rent a vehicle, remember that driving is on the right-hand side of the road.

17

Healthcare facilities are available, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

18

Cozumel has a departure tax for tourists, which is often included in your airfare. Check with your airline to confirm.

19

The island is known for its vibrant festivals and events. Check the local calendar for any that may coincide with your visit.

20

Cozumel is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef system in the world. Please respect the reef and avoid touching or disturbing the coral.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

oh-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

ah-dee-ohs

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Por favor

por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

see

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

no

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

no en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is the bathroom?

¿Dónde está el baño?

don-de es-ta el ban-yo

Asking for the bathroom

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

quan-to cues-ta

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

me gus-ta-ree-a

Expressing a desire or preference

Help!

¡Ayuda!

a-yu-da

In an emergency or needing assistance

Can I have the menu, please?

¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?

pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor

At a restaurant, asking for the menu

Water

Agua

a-gwa

Asking for water

Beer

Cerveza

ser-ve-za

Ordering a beer

Cheers!

¡Salud!

sa-lud

Toasting with drinks

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Good night

Buenas noches

bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodbye in the evening or before bed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Beach cover-up

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (both local currency and US dollars)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for the flight

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

  • Snorkeling gear

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

Weather Conditions

Cozumel, Mexico is a tropical paradise with a warm climate year-round. However, the weather can vary depending on the season, so it's essential to plan your trip accordingly. From December to April, it's the dry season in Cozumel. During this period, you can expect less rainfall and temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). This is the perfect time for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring the Mayan ruins. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the most significant rainfall typically occurring in September and October. During this time, temperatures can reach up to 90°F (32°C), but the rain usually cools things down a bit. If you're planning to visit during the rainy season, it's a good idea to pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella. Despite the rain, you can still enjoy the island's beauty, and it's less crowded during this time. Regardless of when you visit, it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The UV index in Cozumel can be quite high, so always apply a good amount of sunscreen, wear a hat, and take breaks in the shade whenever possible. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast during the hurricane season, which is from June to November. While hurricanes are not common, it's always better to be prepared and have a backup plan. In conclusion, Cozumel is a beautiful destination with a warm tropical climate. Whether you visit during the dry or rainy season, you're sure to enjoy your time on this stunning island.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

27° / 19°

January is a pleasant month to visit Cozumel, with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 27°C. It's the coolest month, so pack some light sweaters for the evenings.

February

28° / 19°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a great time for beach activities. Expect temperatures between 19°C and 28°C.

March

29° / 20°

March is the start of the warm season, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 29°C. It's a great time for snorkeling and diving.

April

31° / 22°

April is a warm month with temperatures between 22°C and 31°C. It's a perfect time for sunbathing and exploring the island.

May

32° / 23°

May is one of the hottest months in Cozumel, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

June

32° / 24°

June is a hot month with temperatures between 24°C and 32°C. It's also the start of the rainy season, so pack an umbrella.

July

32° / 24°

July is similar to June, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. Expect occasional rain showers.

August

32° / 24°

August is a hot and humid month, with temperatures between 24°C and 32°C. It's a great time for water activities to cool off.

September

31° / 24°

September is the peak of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. Pack a raincoat and enjoy the lush, green landscapes.

October

30° / 23°

October sees a slight drop in temperature, with ranges between 23°C and 30°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

November

29° / 21°

November is a comfortable month to visit Cozumel, with temperatures between 21°C and 29°C. It's less crowded, making it perfect for a peaceful vacation.

December

28° / 20°

December is a pleasant month with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. It's a popular time for tourists, so book your accommodations in advance.

Did you know?

Did you know that Cozumel, Mexico is the third largest island in Mexico and the largest Atlantic island of Mexico?

1 of 10

Places near by Cozumel, Mexico

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen

A coastal resort town known for its palm-lined beaches and coral reefs.

45m
18.4 km / 11.4 mi
How to get there
Tulum

Tulum

Famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city.

2h
64.4 km / 40.0 mi
How to get there
Cancun

Cancun

Known for its beaches, numerous resorts and nightlife.

2.5h
72.4 km / 45.0 mi
How to get there
Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza

A complex of Mayan ruins on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

3.5h
158.2 km / 98.3 mi
How to get there
Merida

Merida

The capital of Mexico's Yucatan state, known for its Mayan and colonial heritage.

4h
186.6 km / 115.9 mi
How to get there
Belize City

Belize City

The largest city of Belize, known for its British colonial architecture.

5h
380 km / 236.1 mi
How to get there
Guatemala City

Guatemala City

The capital of Guatemala, known for its Mayan history and high-altitude location.

1.5h
763.5 km / 474.4 mi
How to get there
Havana

Havana

The capital of Cuba, known for its pastel houses, 1950s-era cars and Spanish-colonial architecture.

1.2h
370 km / 229.9 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Mexico