Things That Tourists Can Do in Cozumel

Things That Tourists Can Do in Cozumel

steews4/Flickr.com, Rob Inh00d/Flickr.coim, augustaklc/Flickr.com, eschipul/Flickr.com, kthypryn/Flickr.com, joiseyshowaa/Flickr.com

Whether you get to Cozumel on a cruise ship or airplane, it becomes clear it is not a sleepy little beach town. The activities on the land or water are all geared with tourists in mind, and many of those are custom made for those with an active lifestyle. Whether your plans call for staying on the island or taking a ferry to the mainland to explore Mayan ruins, a trip to Cozumel assures you will never be bored.

Snorkeling and Diving

Eels and other marine life are easily seen under Cozumel's waters.
Eels and other marine life are easily seen under Cozumel's waters.

These are the classic activities for anyone spending a few hours or more in Cozumel, Mexico. The azure but clear waters beckon those who are drawn to all kinds of aquatic life. Sharks, eels and many types of fish can be seen very close to shore, making it convenient as well. Whether exploring from a boat or from shore, there is always plenty to see right under the water.

Fishing

Marlin are a popular sport fish in Cozumel.
Marlin are a popular sport fish in Cozumel.

Whether you are trying to land that trophy marlin for sport or want to dine on grouper, Cozumel offers some of the best charter fishing in the world. Those going by cruise ship should understand they cannot take their catch back on board with them. However, there are a number of restaurants on the island that will cook your catch for you. Fishing licenses are included on most, if not all, charters leaving from the island.

Dolphin Interaction

Dolphin interactions are also available on Cozumel.
Dolphin interactions are also available on Cozumel.

While marine mammals, and dolphins in particular, fascinate many people, very few actually ever get the chance to swim or interact with them. Fewer still get the chance to swim with manatees and sea lions. In Cozumel, all of this can take place in the span of a few short hours. Dolphin and marine mammal interactions are available at various price ranges, including options that allow you to swim with the animals.

Horseback Riding

Horses await riders on a beach in Cozumel.
Horses await riders on a beach in Cozumel.

For those who want to go horseback riding on a beach or through a jungle, often the choice of locations will take them to two very different locations. In Cozumel, both are available in the same location. The beach ride and the typically less expensive jungle ride both cater to cruise ship excursions and those staying on the island.

Mayan Ruins

Mayan ruins dot the landscape around Cozumel.
Mayan ruins dot the landscape around Cozumel.

For history buffs who also like to do a little hiking and jungle exploring, a trip to Mayan ruins may hold the greatest allure. Cozumel happens to be located right near the epicenter of one of the great pre-Columbian cultures in the New World. Gaining insight into the Mayan people is as quick as catching a ferry to the mainland and hopping aboard a tour bus.

Article Written By Kenneth Black

Kenneth Black has been a freelance writer since 2008. He currently works as a staff writer for "The Times Republican" in Central Iowa. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including business, politics, family life and travel. Black holds a bachelor's degree in business marketing from the University of Phoenix.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    5 Top North American Wildflower Hikes

    5 Top North American Wildflower Hikes

    Springtime brings a sense of new beginnings and new life as flowers begin to bloom and fill the air with their sweet and pleasant fragrance. Luckily we can see wildflowers all summer long, since spring hits at different times throughout North America. See flowering cactu...

    More National Parks...
  • Popular Article

    National Park Substitutes: Great Spots Without the Crowds

    National Park Substitutes: Great Spots Without the Crowds

    Coping with crowds at national parks can get tiresome, especially during the peak tourist season. If you want to escape from the herd, or just take a breather from the bustle of bigger attractions, the United States has plenty of less-visited but still worthwhile spots t...

    More National Parks...
  • Featured Destination

    Prevent Yourself from Getting Lost While Hiking

    Prevent Yourself from Getting Lost While Hiking

    When you're hiking you're going to want to make sure you stay found. What I mean by that is that you've put an itinerary in the car, you know the area that you're hiking to, you know the route and the trail you plan on being on, you know what the trail markers are going ...

    More Camping Basics...

Hotel Finder

Destination
Check-in
Check-out
Adults (18+ yrs)
Children (2-17 yrs)
Get Rates and Availability

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword