Your Ultimate 3-Day Cozumel Itinerary
Three days on the island might seem short, but with the right Cozumel itinerary, you can experience a taste of everything the Caribbean gem has to offer. Crystal-clear waters, lush green palm trees, world-class diving with colorful marine life, tasty food, and charming streets decorated with local artwork—this island has everything you need for a weekend in paradise.
In this post, I will lay out the best 72-hour Cozumel itinerary to fill your weekend from morning to night with the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Discover the best ways to make the most of your time on this Mexican island paradise, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Let’s dive in!
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Your Ultimate 3-Day Cozumel Itinerary
Day 1: Tour the Island by Bike
What better way to start your holiday than by riding freely, with the sun warming your skin, wind running through your hair, and Cozumel’s tropical waters and lush palm tree jungles passing you by?
Ride along the coast of Cozumel via motorbike (or jeep / ATV tour if you prefer) and make as many stops as you wish to capture the island's beauty along the way. Bikes are around 350 pesos per 24 hours.
There are many beach clubs, bars, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and activities to choose from along the way. Spend a few hours paddle boarding at a beach club, jump into the water with one of these budget-friendly shore dives, or spend some time with wildlife at Punta Sur Ecological Park with the entire family!
During your ride, be sure to visit the El Mirador Lookout and the Natural Blow Hole. You may even spot a Cozumel Coati running by if you are lucky. (I saw a few!) These adorable raccoon-like mammals are only found on the island but are not as common as they were once before.
Finish your day by catching the sunset over the Western side of the sparkling blue Caribbean Sea while sipping a cocktail or grabbing a cold treat from the nearest ice cream spot.
Day 2: Explore the Underwater World
Cozumel’s underwater life is flourishing with colorful corals and an abundance of sea life. The visibility is clearer than a fish tank, allowing you to appreciate details of the marine world you might not normally notice.
Nurse sharks, turtles, rays, eels, crabs, lobsters, and a wide variety of fish can be found here.
Hop on a dive boat with one of the many local shops for a chance to scuba dive or to try free diving. The waters here are calm and clear, with a slight current, making it an ideal place for first-time divers to get certified. If diving is not for you, have no fear, snorkeling can be just as rewarding!
Looking for a budget-friendly option to dive into the underwater world? Try a $6 tank dive with Blue Angel Dive Shop. If you are diving on a budget in Cozumel, find all the secret spots here.
Finish the day off with some authentic and delicious Mexican food from one of Cozumel’s many locally-owned eateries.
For the best food options, including vegan and gluten-free choices, click here
Day 3: A Day at the Beach and a Night in San Miguel
On your final day, make the most of the remaining Cozumel sunshine. Choose from one of the many beach clubs or free beaches along the coast. Take advantage of the water activities available such as snorkeling, blow-up water activities, jet skiing, parasailing, and more! Or grab a book, find a palm tree, and lay down on the warm sand.
In the evening, venture into the heart of San Miguel for a stroll around the streets. You will find some incredible street art along the way. Explore the local flea markets selling all your favorite trinkets, clothing items, and local treats. Wander around the colorful buildings near Benito Juarez Park before indulging in your final tasty Mexican dinner at sunset. Do not forget to visit the artsy sunken boat nearby!
Looking to add some local tours into your day?
Tequila Tour: Dive into Mexican culture with a tequila tasting or tour. Adding to the excitement, they frequently offer freshly made food options 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.
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!
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:
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, however, 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
Food Recommendations:
Pro Tip: 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.
