A practical guide to the 2-day itinerary in Cozumel
Highlights and must-dos -two suggested itineraries around Cozumel and practical information- to plan the best way to plan your trip, pack your bags and make the most of your days in this paradise.
Basic and essential points -two itinerary proposals for Cozumel and practical information- to plan your trip in the best way, pack your bags and make the most of your days in this paradise.
Day 1
In the morning
Palmeras
To start the day, what better than a rich and abundant breakfast, accompanied by freshly baked bread. This bright, centrally located restaurant - the largest in Cozumel - fills up with locals in the mornings and is a favorite for family celebrations.
Punta Sur
The arrow points to this ecological park. Catamaran trips to navigate among mangroves, fish, birds, and crocodiles through the transparent Colombia Lagoon are at 12, 1 and 2 p.m. Don't miss the chance to climb to the top of the Celarain Lighthouse and visit the Navigation Museum and the Tomb of the Snail.
In the afternoon
Miniature road trip along the East Coast Riding the bike path or cruising along the road on a motorcycle, boogie, or jeep has a spectacular effect, especially as the sun goes down. Intuition and cravings dictate the stops at the lookout point or the beach clubs -with exotic cocktails and good food- located at this end of the island.
At night
Night paddleboarding
Once you have learned the basics of stand-up paddling, you ride over reefs on boards with a special light underneath, which, in addition to illuminating the clear waters, serves as a magnet for hundreds of fish to approach. An unforgettable experience.
La Casa del Habano
At 10:30 p.m., the Caribbean and tropical music band kick-off. Islanders know this lively spot well, perfect for smoking the best cigars, sipping a cold beer on the terrace overlooking the sea, and, above all, dancing.
Day 2
In the morning
Market
The municipal market is already bustling at 6 am. This is the place to go if you want a traditional Mexican breakfast or a Yucatecan specialty. Fresh fruit juice (pitaya for the more exotic ones) is a must.
San Gervasio
The itinerary takes you through the jungle interior of the island, where the archaeological site of San Gervasio is located. A journey back in time to enter into different periods of the Mayan culture.
Chankanaab
The body demands the beach and the many attractions of this national park are best enjoyed -as a couple, with family or friends- if you spend the day in one of the comfortable cabins of Cabana Beach, which also has its bar and food truck.
In the afternoon
Downtown stroll
When the heat dies down, it's time to walk along the Malecon (boardwalk) and pass by several monuments, do some shopping in San Miguel and sit on one of the terraces overlooking the main square to watch the people go by.
In the evening
Fernando Jr's Lobster House
This restaurant is, without a doubt, one of the must-visit restaurants in Cozumel. "All you need is lobster" reads on one of the walls. And the sign is right. The best lobster tails are preceded by exquisite snail cream. The tropical bar is open until midnight.
Practical information
Weather
The temperature in Cozumel is 27°C (81°F) on average. In July and August, highs range between 27 and 33°C (91°F). In December and January, the average daytime temperature drops to 24°C (75°F). It is recommended to pack light and fresh clothes, beach clothes and, in addition to sandals, comfortable walking shoes. In winter, a thin jacket or sweater may be needed.
Arrival
Cozumel International Airport is served by several airlines from the United States and Canada, and flights arrive from Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City. Mayair operates flights from Cancun, which take 15 minutes to reach the island. From Cancun International Airport you can also take a bus to Playa del Carmen, very close to the ferry dock, which leaves 365 days a year -between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. -, every hour, and in approximately 35 minutes arrives in San Miguel de Cozumel. Two ferry operators (Transcaribe and Ultramar Carga) allow the transportation of vehicles.
How to get around
The best way to enjoy the island to the fullest is to have total freedom of movement. Jeeps, boogies, or motorcycles can be rented at the airport, at many hotels, at the ferry docks, and various locations in San Miguel. Bicycles are also available for rent for those who want to exercise on the long scenic bike path that runs along much of the coastline.
Lodging
Cozumel offers accommodations for all tastes and budgets, from luxurious and avant-garde hotels with beachfront cabana rooms -Presidente InterContinental- and the highest pool on the island -The Westin Cozumel- to all-inclusive resorts, villas, bungalows, charming boutique hotels -Hotel B-, eco-friendly -Ventanas al Mar- and simpler ones in San Miguel.
