Cozumel Island

Located in the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, the sun, sand and surf make the island of Cozumel a vacationers paradise for all. Measuring about 30 miles in length and 10 miles wide, Isla Cozumel, meaning “Island of the Swallow” lies just off the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and is the most populated of Mexico's islands.

This unique paradise island is perfectly situated along the Mesoamerican Reef system, the largest in the Western Hemisphere, making the scuba diving and snorkeling some of the best in the world. This reef, houses a rich and diverse marine life and with the temperate climate the water is warm almost year round. Multiple companies offer scuba diving and snorkeling trips, fishing trips and catamaran sails including sunset cruises in Isla Cozumel.

Most of the island's tour operators and activities on the Cozumel island can be found in in the downtown city of San Miguel. The city is also home to a variety of fine dining restaurants, casual bistros and the island's nightlife. And because it is one of the premiere cruise ship ports, the shopping in Isla Cozumel is world-class. There are an abundant number of stores in San Miguel that offer great deals on jewelry and clothing, or take a few steps off the beaten path to find some original Mexican handcrafts to take home.

For those who are looking to venture outside the city, there are a wide variety of activities and interests and with only one major road, the path around the Isla Cozumel is easy to navigate. Join a tour group or rent a car or moped and head out to experience all that the island has to offer. There are Eco-adventure parks like Chankanaab that are a great destination for the whole family to spend the day swimming or snorkeling, or Punta Sur Ecological Park where you can see all kinds of wildlife, climb to the top of the Celarain Lighthouse and find out about turtle conservation on the island. For those looking to learn more about the island's Mayan history, a stop at the San Gervasio ruins is a must. Located in the central part of Isla Cozumel, the ruins were built as an homage to Ixchel, the ancient Mayan goddess of midwifery, love and fertility. At least once in their lifetime all Mayan women were required to visit San Gervasio to pay their respects. These days men and women are both welcome. Or you can take a tour of Cozumel's Museum and see artifacts and remnants of the islands past as well as learn about its ecological conservation efforts. And while out and about make sure to stop for refreshments at one of the few restaurants and eateries that dot the east coast “quiet side” of the Cozumel island.

Isla Cozumel is also home to a growing number of sporting events each year including golf tournaments, fishing tournaments and a popular Ironman triathlon. Easily reached via planes that arrive daily or by a short 40-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, Isla Cozumel is a world-class destination for those seeking culture, cuisine and activities both in and out of the water.