Cozumel Cruise Port: The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary
Cozumel has the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure with its crystal-clear Caribbean waters, tropical palm tree jungles, and delicious cuisine. As a major cruise port near the popular Playa del Carmen, Cozumel often attracts visitors for less than a day of exploration. To make the most of your short time on the island, follow this traveler's 1-day itinerary and discover the best of this Mexican Island!
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Cozumel Cruise Port: The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary
Start your day on the island in one of two ways, depending on your preference for exploration or relaxation. If you are looking for some major R&R time, consider heading to the beach to soak up the sun on the sandy shores. If adventure and adrenaline are more your vibe, consider diving into the depths of the underwater world.
Option 1: Dive into Cozumel’s magical underwater world
You have plenty of options, whether you are a certified diver or not. For non-certified divers, I recommend taking this opportunity to do a discovery dive with a local dive shop or grabbing a snorkel, mask, and fins to enjoy some excellent snorkeling.
For new divers, there are many local dive shops and tours to choose from. You can try diving with a discovery dive or jump right in and become open-water certified. If you are unsure about scuba diving, a discovery dive is the perfect option for you. It includes a short introduction in a pool or shallow section of the shore to learn some of the basics of scuba diving, followed by one shallow dive at a dive site with an instructor by your side (only if you feel comfortable, of course, but I suggest pushing yourself a little—I promise the underwater world is worth it). On the other hand, an open water course is where you get your certificate to dive down to 18 meters (max) anywhere in the world (with an instructor or dive master, of course). The open water course usually takes 1-2 days and consists of some time in the pool or shallow waters to learn the basics of scuba diving, followed by four dives in the ocean to practice those skills.
For certified scuba or free divers, you can join a boat trip with a local dive shop or visit one of three shore dive spots offering $6 - $14 tank dives.
Prefer snorkeling? The entire coastline has reefs for you to explore! You can rent gear in downtown San Miguel or bring your own gear with you. Looking for some recommendations on where to go? Head here for some of the best free beaches that have some amazing snorkeling spots. Head here if you are looking for more of a high-end private charter experience!
Option 2: Explore Cozumel’s Free Beaches & Beach Clubs
If diving is not your thing, that's okay! Opt for one of the many beach clubs, free beaches, or secret beaches to soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in Cozumel’s turquoise waters.
Many beach clubs offer an array of amenities, including food, drinks, sun loungers, umbrellas, and various water sports like water skiing and parasailing. Some clubs have entry fees, but if you are looking for a free option, head over to Money Bar Beach Club. For some of the best beach club options, check out this list!
Throughout the coast of Cozumel, hides many small entrances to free beaches and secluded coves, perfect for a sun-filled day of relaxation. To help decide which ones are best to explore, head here.
Once you have had enough sun and water fun, head back to your room or somewhere cool to freshen up. Then, head to the center of San Miguel for some exploring, shopping, and tasty dinner options. Wander the streets to discover incredible street art, including the sunken boat art nearby. Be sure to explore the local flea markets and colorful buildings near Benito Juarez Park.
Savor the final moments of island life by watching the sunset over the pristine Caribbean Sea, while sipping a cocktail or enjoying a cold treat from a nearby ice cream shop. Whether you are departing from the Cozumel cruise port, the ferry port, or simply relaxing along the shore, you will have the perfect view of the sunset surrounding you.
Looking for local day tours Instead?
Pueblo de Maíz: A popular interactive and cultural tour of the Ancient Mayan Village in Cozumel. It includes a historical overview of legends, cooking, dancing, performances, and sports with the local people. This is a great activity, especially for those with children!
Tequila Tour: What better way to learn more about Mexican culture than through a tequila tasting or tour? And better yet, they usually involve some sort of food option like tacos or chocolate making (yum).
Temazcal Ritual: Another way to learn more about the Mayan culture is through one of these rituals. This is an “ancestral shamanic ritual” that promotes healing through relieving body pains, clearing the skin, relieving stress, etc.
Pearl Farm: Being the only Pearl Farm in the Caribbean, you might as well take advantage of this underwater and land adventure. Enjoy snorkeling at the oyster hatchery, artificial reef, and even a sunken statue. Snacks and beverages are usually included as well.
Punta Sur Eco Beach: Calling all nature lovers, adrenaline seekers, and families—head over to this ecological reserve for a fun-filled day for every member of the family. You can climb atop the historic lighthouse, get up close and personal with crocodiles and exotic birds on a Colombia Lagoon boat tour, and explore the small Mayan ruins of El Caracol. There are walking and biking trails through the park with plenty of opportunities for bird watching and embracing nature around you. For those looking to relax, head to the beaches for some sunbathing and light snorkeling near the shore.
General Information on Cozumel:
Best Time to Visit:
Cozumel is great to visit 365 days a year, but I think the best time is March to early June–after peak season and before the real rainy season begins. Peak season is December-February so expect it to be busy. Rainy and hurricane season is mostly July-November but of course, it can expand into before or after those months. I have been here during March, April, May, June, and July.
Tips:
Whale Shark season takes place June-September near Isla Mujeres.
Never travel without the right insurance in case of any sickness, injuries, or theft. Safety Wing is by far the best travel medical insurance. It has saved me numerous times by covering hospital visits when I was sick during my travels in Asia.
How to Get to Cozumel:
Flying (the best option): Cozumel has an airport right on the island that is located only 3-4 km from downtown San Miguel.
Ferry: You can take the 45-minute passenger ferry into Cozumel from Playa del Carmen. This ferry runs every hour with 3 companies running them: Winjet (orange) Xcaret (blue) and Ultramar (yellow). Check the sites for updated schedules and pricing. The 2024 price I paid was 260 pesos ($15 USD).
Mode of Transport in Cozumel:
Taxi, bicycle, motorbike. Cozumel is very walkable and transport is only really needed to tour the entire island or to reach specific beach clubs or beaches that are further away. I took 1 taxi during my time here and it was from the airport. Motorbikes are around $350-450 pesos daily. Bicycles are around 250 pesos.
Where to Stay:
I recommend staying right in San Miguel to be within walking distance of nearly everything you need. The beaches will be a bit farther by foot or you can opt to rent a motorbike or bicycle.
Best Accommodation Options For Every Traveler
Best Backpacker/Hostel Option: Hostel Auikyani or Cozumel 568 - Vacation Rental
Best Low-Budget: Casa del Solar Centro Cozumel
Best Mid-Budget: Kippal - Modern Oasis - ApartHotel or Casa Mexicana Cozumel
Best Luxury: Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa
