3-Day Relaxing Getaway in Cozumel: Sightseeing and Shopping Guide
Cozumel, Mexico
3 days
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.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
History and Adventure
Morning
Visit the Cozumel Museum in the morning. The museum offers interesting exhibits about the island's history and culture.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café. Try some local dishes and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon Snorkeling in the clear waters of Cozumel. The island is known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Dinner
Enjoy a beachfront dinner. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with beautiful views of the ocean.
Evening
Take a moonlit walk along the beach. The sound of the waves and the cool ocean breeze make for a perfect end to the day.
Day 3
Nature and Shopping
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Chankanaab National Park. The park offers beautiful trails, a botanical garden, and a chance to see some local wildlife.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Mexican dishes and enjoy the vibrant flavors.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon shopping in Downtown Cozumel. The area is filled with charming shops and boutiques, offering a wide range of products.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing evening at a local spa. Enjoy a massage or a facial, and reflect on your wonderful trip to Cozumel.
Attractions in Itinerary (5)
1San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
These ancient Mayan ruins are a significant archaeological site and were once a hub of worship for the goddess Ixchel.
2Downtown Cozumel
The bustling downtown area of Cozumel, filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.
3Cozumel Museum
A museum showcasing the history and culture of Cozumel.
4Snorkeling
Explore the underwater world of Cozumel's coral reefs with a snorkeling tour.
5Chankanaab 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.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
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
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
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
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
A popular dish in Cozumel, Enchiladas are corn tortillas rolled around a filling and covered with a chili pepper sauce.
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
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
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
A traditional Mexican drink made from rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Horchata is a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Cozumel.
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Rental Car
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.
Taxi
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.
Scooter Rental
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.
Bicycle Rental
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.
Public Bus
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.
Pedestrian
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.
Ferry
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
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.
Important information
Currency$ MXN
Time zoneUTC-6
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 065; Fire: 068; Police: 060
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
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 | Sí | 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
Sandals
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Sunscreen
Aftersun lotion
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Makeup
Contact lenses and solution
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Power adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Reusable water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel guide for Cozumel
Beach bag
Beach towel
Snorkeling gear
Playing cards or small games
Notepad and pen
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Cozumel, Mexico
Playa del Carmen
A coastal resort town known for its palm-lined beaches and coral reefs.
Tulum
Famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city.
Cancun
Known for its beaches, numerous resorts and nightlife.
Chichen Itza
A complex of Mayan ruins on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.
Merida
The capital of Mexico's Yucatan state, known for its Mayan and colonial heritage.
Belize City
The largest city of Belize, known for its British colonial architecture.
Guatemala City
The capital of Guatemala, known for its Mayan history and high-altitude location.
Havana
The capital of Cuba, known for its pastel houses, 1950s-era cars and Spanish-colonial architecture.
