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Your cruise ship will dock at one of three Cozumel cruise ports, all located on the island’s western side. These include Punta Langosta, International pier, and Puerta Maya. Where you dock could depend on what cruise line you are sailing. As you walk, you’ll eventually see a sign for Playa Stingray and a set of concrete stairs down to the water.
Getting Around Cozumel Island
The tourist information office is located at the end of the pier by the Punta Langosta shopping plaza. Take a journey through history by exploring the ancient Mayan paths. You can visit the San Gervasio Ruins, a popular tourist attraction, El Cedral Mayan Ruins, and the oldest Mayan site in Cozumel.
Explore and Swim in a Cenote
Those who are scuba diving can explore submerged sculptures. Cozumel is a popular cruise destination in the Caribbean and it's impossible to not see why. Quintana Roo is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant tourism industry, and popular destinations like Cancún and Playa del Carmen.
Lounge on the Beach at the Pier (Puerta Maya)
Located on the mainland, the ancient Mayan city is one of the most photographed destinations in the world. The buildings go right up to the cliffsides overlooking the water and stand dramatically over the scenery. Book an excursion and you can go visit the ruins for a few hours, usually followed by beach time, with swimming next to the ruins. There’s a manmade beach at the pier where Carnival ships dock, but nowhere to swim. It’s the opposite at the Royal Caribbean pier (International Pier) nearby.
Restaurants and other spots all serve bottled water, and its widely available in stores. You don’t have to ask specifically for bottled water, it’s assumed that’s what you want. One nice thing about catching a taxi in Cozumel is that prices are set and displayed prominently at the cruise port. The prices are listed in U.S. dollars, and you can pay without having to exchange money. Be sure to bring correct change, plus a few bucks extra for a tip.
While I get my steps in, and my heart pumping, I also get to check in with the daily weather and water conditions. I can see the action at various hotels and dive shops, and often spot signs for new events in town that wouldn’t be on my radar, otherwise. Well, I don’t know about you, but over time and quite by accident I realized, and admitted (first step…), my love of shopping for everyday items in a foreign land. See our list of things to do in Costa Maya on a cruise and our guide to Progreso. One of the little-known gems of the island is its planetarium. The Cha’an Ka’an facility is open Tuesday through Saturday and offers a 3-D projection dome, astronomy shows, and even an observatory.
42 IDEAL Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico - Cruise Hive
42 IDEAL Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico.
Posted: Fri, 29 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Enjoy the spectacular view of the ocean on one side and pop in and out of waterfront shops and restaurants on the other side. It has a nice white sandy beach but what is notable about this beach are the two huge rock formations that break the surf and create a nice swimming area on the beach. The well-lighted shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. If learning to cook up tasty treats in the kitchen is your thing then you’ll want to learn to cook authentic Mexican food at this fun experience.
In the background you’ll have the ships docked, and you’ll never forget where you were. The sign is located at the pier where Margaritaville is located and where Royal Caribbean normally docks. You might not be able to access it if your ship docks at the other piers. Trips are offered around the island (including Mr. Sanchos) and can take you around the jungle, on the beach, or both.
The area was abandoned sometime in the 16th century, but many of the structures are still standing today. If you are visiting the International Cruise Terminal (where lines like Royal Caribbean dock), then you have your own little swim area in port. Head over to near the large green “Tequila A GoGo” building and you’ll see a couple of staircases that descend down into the water. In fact, it’s not unusual to find Cozumel excursions that costs $100 — or more — per person.
Fares to most beaches on the west side are about 6$ a person/per way. If you have more people in your party, the cost may be lower. Cozumel is an easy great cruise port to visit with a shore excursion, or on your own. Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and if you are docked closest to the Downtown, you can explore on foot. If you want to enjoy the most of Cozumel on your cruise, you’ll need a proper way to get around.
Get away from the main port areas, and you’ll still find plenty of spots that aren’t Cozumel versions of American chains. Head into port and you’ll find the Cozumel sign that looks back out to your ship. Just keep in mind it’s not the classic white-sand beach with big palm trees you might picture in your mind. For those sorts of beaches you need to go farther down the coast. During the course of your cruise it’s almost a certainty that you’ll find you run out of toothpaste… or forget your deodorant… or need some more sunscreen.
There’s an extensive menu to peruse and a sandy path down to the sea for exploring after lunch. There’s plenty of sea life with large schools of tropical fish and an excellent chance to view turtles and manta rays! It’s also a very uncrowded beach club with great food and lounge chairs. That’s where you’ll find the lively beach clubs, major hotels, and some of the best dive and snorkeling sites in the world. Keep in mind that the most popular and sandy beaches are all on the island’s west side.
Cozumel is a great place to do it if you’re an experienced diver or want to try scuba diving for the first time. San Miguel, the main town on the island, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Cozumel Mexico. While many visitors stick to the waterfront shops, venturing further into the town reveals a more authentic side of Mexico. Exploring the vibrant streets, markets, and local eateries can provide a memorable experience that you won’t soon forget.
