Sunlit Shallows and Technicolor Corals
The reefs of Cozumel lure divers from around the world. And those same colorful coral formations extend upward into shallow waters near the shore, allowing snorkelers to experience the full diversity and splendor of this unique underwater environment. Adventures can begin by wading in right from the beach, or by hopping aboard a motorboat for a relaxing ride down the coast. There's something for snorkelers of all abilities and interests, from calm shallow coves where children and first-timers can discover what lies below, to dramatic coral castles that invite free divers to take a closer look into fish-filled crevices and caverns.
Highlights
- Best for: Everyone, surrounded by water great for beach lovers, watersports enthusiasts and those looking to relax
- Best season to visit: Year round
- Weather: Winter temperatures stay in the 70s, with pleasantly low humidity. Summertime highs approach 90 but cool at night. The rainy season, June to October, bring afternoon thunderstorms and increased humidity, but underwater visibility isn't compromised
Things to Do
- Cultural Activities
- Diving
- Offroading
- Paddle Sports
- Spa and Wellness
Cozumel Information
Snorkeling in Cozumel
The west coast of the island of Cozumel is sheltered from prevailing winds and waves and washed by the clear waters of a north-flowing current. These conditions are ideal for corals growth and abundant fish life, and many reefs begin close to shore in shallow depths that are well-suited for snorkeling.
Snorkeling in Cozumel Tips
While some snorkel sites can be reached by the shore, others require a boat ride. Snorkeling from a boat allows operators to visit sites where there are currents, as snorkels can drift and be picked up without having to swim against the water flow. As a bonus, many boats feature glass-bottom viewing chambers to provide a preview of what lies below.
Best Places for Snorkeling in Cozumel
The starfish gardens in the shallow waters of El Cielo are a delight for snorkelers of all ages. Nooks and crannies within colorful coral formations at Colombia hold shy marine life. Turtles, rays and queen angel fish patrol the reefs of Palancar. Upon entering the water at Chankanaab National Park, snorkels are met by swarms of tropical fish.
What to Pack for Snorkeling in Cozumel
A hat for sun protection when out of the water, and a water shirt to keep the back from getting sunburned when snorkeling. Use a mesh tote bag or compact nylon pack to keep personal items organized on boat trips. Add a small waterproof case for keys, wallets and phones.
Specials
Cozumel
Secrets Aura Cozumel
Valid travel 6/8/25-10/25/25. Rates from $1,230 per person, double diver. Book by 12/14/24!
Additional room categories and other dates also available! Book on-line or Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 or email us sales@caradonna.com.
From $1,230 per person double diver
Book NowCozumel
Dreams Cozumel Cape Resort and Spa
Valid travel 4/20/25-6/7/25. Rates from $1,072 per person, double diver. Book by 12/14/24!
Additional room categories and other dates also available! Book on-line or Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 or email us sales@caradonna.com.
From $1,072 per person double diver
Book NowCozumel
Sunscape Sabor Cozumel
Valid travel 4/20/25-12/20/25. Rates from $925 per person, double diver. Book by 12/14/24!
Additional room categories and other dates also available! Book on-line or Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 or email us sales@caradonna.com.
From $925 per person double diver
Book NowCozumel
El Cid La Ceiba Beach
$600 Mega Pass Resort Credit Coupon Book (per booked room) can be used towards diving, snorkeling, spa, restaurants, room upgrades, car rental (non- transferrable/non-refundable, specific credit amounts set by hotel).
Optional add-ons for Watersports & Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Valid for travel 9/1/24-10/31/24. Rate from $546 per person/double diver. Upgrade to the All Inclusive plan for an additional $167 pp.
Additional room categories and other dates also available! Book on-line or Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 or email us sales@caradonna.com.
From $546 per person double diver
Book NowCozumel
Fiesta Americana Cozumel
Valid 10/31/24. From $949 per person, double diver.
Valid 11/1/24-12/23/24. From $1,055 per person, double diver.
Valid 12/24/24-1/2/25. From $1,324 per person, double diver.
Additional room categories and other dates also available! Book on-line or Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 or email us sales@caradonna.com.
From $949 per person double diver
Book NowResorts
Cozumel
Presidente InterContinental Resort
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Book on-line or Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 or email us sales@caradonna.com.
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Cozumel
Allegro Cozumel
Optional add-ons for Watersports & Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
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Cozumel
Occidental Cozumel
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Cozumel
El Cid La Ceiba Beach
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
See Packages & Learn More
Cozumel
Fiesta Americana Cozumel
Optional add-ons for Watersports & Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Cozumel
Dreams Cozumel Cape Resort and Spa
Unlimited-Luxury: everything is included, no wristbands, no tips and unlimited food and beverages with our premium top shelf liquor in all our bars, a large variety of gourmet menus, room service, minibar restock daily, waiters for pool service and beach, plus much more!
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
See Packages & Learn More
Cozumel
Sunscape Sabor Cozumel
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Cozumel
Secrets Aura Cozumel
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Cozumel
Iberostar Waves Cozumel
Call 800.328.2288 For Special Pricing and Information.
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Cozumel
Casa del Mar Cozumel Hotel & Dive Resort
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Cozumel
The Explorean Cozumel
Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.
Call 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Cozumel
Cozumel Hotel and Resort by Wyndham
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Passport and/or Visa Requirements
A valid, undamaged passport is required. No visa is required for stays less than 180 days. One page is required in your passport for entry stamp. Other required items include a return ticket and confirmation of hotel reservation. All persons leaving Cozumel pay a departure tax of approximately $34 USD which should be included in your international ticket. Check the entry/exit requirements here.
Immunizations
Vaccinations are not required for entering Mexico if you’re coming from the United States. Check with the Centers for Disease Control on recommended vaccinations for travel www.cdc.gov.
Culture and Customs
Though no longer the sleepy fishing village that divers first discovered in the 1960s, the island of Cozumel retains much of its small-town charm. Cruise ships come and go, but move beyond the waterfront souvenir shops and tourist-centric watering holes and you will discover a culture that combines memories of the Maya with traditions of old Mexico. Many local shops close for an afternoon siesta and as the big ships sail off into the night, residents come out for paseos around the town square. Also in the mix is a vibrant and sophisticated art and music scene. Cozumel has been called Mexico's equivalent of Key West, attracting creative types from across the country and beyond. This influx of talent also extends to the kitchen, adding creative cuisines to a dining scene that also includes a number of family-operated favorites that have been pleasing hungry divers for decades. Surface intervals are typically spent relaxing at beach clubs, with perhaps one day set aside for an island tour. A handful of bars and clubs stay open late, while ferries connect to the lively scene at Playa del Carmen, which lies just across the channel.
Electricity, Phone and Internet Access
Electricity is 110 volts, 60 cycles, same as in the U.S., so converters are not necessary.
Cozumel has a modern, fully digital and reliable telecommunication system. The long distance dialing code is 52, while the area code for Cozumel is 987. Check with your cell provider for International plans and costs. The Internet is available at many hotels, restaurants, bars and stores.
Water Quality
Most restaurants and bars in tourist locations use purified water. Outside of resorts, be cautious with ice in drinks or vegetables which may have been washed in tap water. Bottled water is available for purchase and is recommended for drinking and brushing your teeth.
Language & Currency
Spanish is the official language but English is widely spoken.
The Mexican peso is the official currency of Cozumel (MXN). Due to new regulations, merchants and businesses can no longer change U.S. Dollars for Pesos. That must be done at a currency exchange office. U.S. credit cards are widely accepted. Check the current exchange rate here.
Time
Mexico spans four different time zones. February 1, 2015, the state of Quintana Roo which includes Cozumel, changed to Eastern Standard Time Zone (Zona Sureste). They do not observe daylight savings time, which puts them 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-5 GMT).
Location, Size and Population
Cozumel is Mexico's largest island, sitting just 12 miles off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is approximately 250 square miles. Cozumel is 43 miles south of Cancún and 12 miles southeast of Playa del Carmen. Ferries take passengers between Playa del Carmen on the mainland side to Cozumel island in about 1/2 an hour. Cozumel measures 28 miles long & 10 miles wide.
The population of Cozumel is estimated at 100,000.