Cozumel Attractions

Sightseeing and Other Activities Intro

Diving and sport fishing are the main activities on Cozumel, followed by wind surfing, jetskiing, and water-skiing, which are offered by the resorts. The widest range of watersports rentals are at Playa San Francisco.

Plaza del Sol
San Miguel's main tourist areas are Plaza del Sol where you'll find cafés, craft shops, jewelry stores, restaurants and fast food joints and the malecon, Cozumel's seaside boardwalk.

Museum of the Island of Cozumel
While touring the town stop in at the Museum of the Island of Cozumel, a two-story former turn-of-the- century hotel that features displays of island wildlife and anthropological and cultural history. Between May and September the museum offers marine-biologist-led tours to witness the sea turtles lay eggs on the eastern shore.

The Chankanaab Lagoon Botanical Gardens
The Chankanab Lagoon Botanical Gardens, two miles south of town, has 300 species of tropical plants and trees and an interesting Mayan museum.

Celerain Lighthouse
Further south you'll come to the Celarain Lighthouse, which you may climb for a spectacular view of the area. Be sure to clear your visit first with the resident caretaker.

East Coast of Cozumel
Rent a jeep to explore the windward east coast of Cozumel. You'll find pounding surf and marvelous stretches of uninhabited beaches lined with mangroves and coconut palms. It may be wise to avoid swimming here because of the dangerous currents and strong undertow, except at Playa Chiquero, a protected crescent-shaped cove, and Playa Chen Rio, which is protected by a rock breakwater.

Mayan Remains
Remains of Mayan temples and pyramids can be found at the northern end of the island. Guided tours to explore San Gervasio (once the Mayan capital), also on the north end, may be booked through most large hotels. Ferry trips to the larger, more impressive Mayan ruins on the mainland can be booked in town at the International Pier. Most tours package include a side trip to Tulum, a Mayan walled city built in the late 13th century, or to Isla Mujeres, a fabulous nearby snorkeling island. Sightseeing flights around Cozumel, to neighboring islands, or the mainland can be arranged at the airport.