Archaeology:

The Isla of Cozumel has a rich, pre-Hispanic past, reflected in its nearly 25 archaeological zones. The majority are still only at the exploration stage, but it is worth visiting two of them: San Gervasio and San Cedral.

Architecture:

Cozumel has no interesting old architecture.

Arts and Crafts:

While there are places on the island where you can buy souvenirs and handicrafts, Cozumel is not noted for its production of these objects.

Festivals:

The Fiesta of San Pablo Y San Pedro (Saint Peter and Saint Paul) is celebrated on June 29. The Patron Saint of San Miguel Festivities take place on September 29. Both of these celebrations feature dances and a fair. The Carnival that takes place in the main square of the town of Cozumel has colorful dances and processions with musical bands.

Historical Interests:

There is no specific historical event associated with Cozumel, but it is worth mentioning that the island was left uninhabited during the colonial period, except when it was occasionally taken over by pirates or turtle hunters. It started to become populated when groups of colonials from the Yucatan peninsula in flight from the Guerra de las Castas (War of the Castes) arrived there in the middle of the 19th century.

Museums:

There are three interesting museums on the island of Cozumel. The Musical Instruments Museum has displays of pre Hispanic instruments, among other objects of interest; the Museo y Galería del Buceo (The Diving Museum and Gallery) has underwater photographs, beautiful seashells and other marine objects on display. There is also the Museum of the Island of Cozumel where you can see objects related to the island’s flora, fauna, pre Hispanic culture and history.

Beaches:

Isla de la Pasión is located to the north of Cozumel and can be reached by a short walk along the beach or by a small boat. The local birds and beaches are worth a visit.

Cuisine:

The food in Cozumel is, of course, mainly fish but international cuisine is also available. Some of the restaurants offering this type of cuisine include El Arrecife (Mediterranean) and Guido’s (pizza and seafood).

Eco Tourism:

South of the city of San Miguel de Cozumel lie the Chancanaan lagoon and park, which are definitely worth a visit. A large coral formation inside a limestone sinkhole is connected to the sea via a tunnel. The calm, transparent waters are ideal for snorkeling and observing dozes of fish species and small portions of the reef. The adjacent botanical garden contains a fascinating section on native flora.

Night Life:

Great night-time entertainment on this island paradise can be found at the Hard Rock Café, Neptune’s, Carlos ‘n Charlies and Viva México where you can dance, enjoy a drink and listen to live music.

Shopping:

There are several shops selling souvenirs in the tourist town of Cozumel. You will find places like Bazár del Àngel, Casablanca and La Campana (among others) all along Avenida Melgar. If you’re looking for a greater assortment of handicrafts and coral objects, the Mercado de Artesanías (The Handicrafts Market), located a few blocks from the main square, is a must. Other, more expensive shops where you can admire and buy top quality art include Los Cinco Soles, Playa del Ángel and Talavera.

Spas:

The main Mexican island located on the thousand year-old Mayan Coral Reef can offer visitors all the comforts of modern-day life along with the pleasure of diving, swimming and exploring this Caribbean paradise. The Plaza Las Glorias, Playa Azul and the Ceiba Beach Hotels all have spa, massage, steam bath and Jacuzzi services available.

Camping:

You need permission from the naval authorities in the island to camp there. The best places for camping are the unpopulated spots, especially those on the east coast (Punta Morena and Punta Chiqueros). There are no formal camping facilities.

Extreme Sports:

Although no great effort is required as the island is flat, bicycling around the perimeter road is a lot of fun. This road will take you through Chankanab Park, on to Punta Celarain and then down the east coast where you can enjoy the breeze that blows in from the open sea. On another day, you may possibly decide to take a trip through the jungle to the pre Hispanic Castillo Real (Royal Castle) and Punta Molas.

Fishing:

Fishing for marlin, sailfish, dorado and barracuda is permitted in both Cancun and Cozumel. This activity, however, must be done a safe distance from the Cozumel reefs, where the rich marine fauna is protected. Cozumel is actually a place for observing rather than catching fish.

Golf:

Cozumel boasts a superb golf course. Designed by Nicklaus Design Group, it has 18 holes for 72 out of 6,816 yards. Long stretches of green in the midst of paradise.

Hiking & Climbing:

As the island of Cozumel is totally flat, there is not much climbing!

Sailing:

Cozumel has a harbor from which you can sail. A particularly interesting place for this is the stretch of sea separating Cozumel from the mainland.

Snorkel & Scuba:

Cozumel’s ideal diving conditions made it internationally famous. Its transparent waters, providing visibility of up to 50 m, together with the natural fantasy of the reef, make this one of the world’s five major diving resorts.

Surfing:

The beaches in Cozumel are not ideal for surfing. Cancun has better possibilities.

Water Sports:

Cozumel Island, particularly the long beaches stretching towards the north and south of San Miguel, provides facilities for almost every type of beach activity. You can sunbathe on the white sand, go for exciting trips on wind-powered vehicles, or speed across the water on a Jet Ski. You will also be able to observe the coast of Cozumel from a parachute or have any of the island’s mouth-watering specialties served to you on the beach. An evening stroll through the delightful streets of the capital will provide a relaxing end to an afternoon.