excursions in cozumel on carnival

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23 Best Things to Do in Cozumel Cruise Port: Everything to Know

Over 3 million people cruise to Mexico’s most populated island every year and all of the mainstream cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises.  There’s a reason it’s one of the most visited cruise ports in the world.

As many as eight cruise ships could be in port at one time.

Personally, I love visiting Cozumel.  I love the weather, people, environment, beaches, and overall vibe.  Every time I visit I find something new, so this post will detail some unique and fun experiences you can have at this fantastic stop along your cruise.

From the pristine coral reefs and endless beaches to the plentiful shopping in town, Cozumel has something for everyone.  Oh, and there is even something for the Indiana Jones in you if you want to explore some archeological sites.

The weather in Cozumel is about as good as it gets throughout the year.  Average temperatures are in the 70’s and 80’s (Fahrenheit).

In this post we will give you some of the best things to do in Cozumel along with some helpful information on how to get around the island, what to expect, where to go, etc.

Cruise ports in Cozumel: How far are they from downtown?

This is a little confusing to cruise ship passengers who have never been to Cozumel before.   Even if you have been to Cozumel before you might get off the ship and not recognize your surroundings because you could be at a completely different pier than before.

There are 3 different cruise ship piers in Cozumel.  One is close to downtown and the other two are a few miles out.    So, let’s look at each terminal and its location.

• Punta Langosta . This pier is the closest to the downtown area, only about a 5-minute walk.  You can join a walking tour of San Miguel or just explore on your own without having to walk very far at all.
• International Pier .  This is where some of the larger cruise ships will dock: ships like Royal Caribbean Oasis class ships and larger Norwegian Cruise Line ships.  This is the oldest cruise pier in Cozumel and is about 3 miles from downtown.
• Puerta Maya . This pier was built by Carnival Corporation and is only used for Carnival owned ships.  It’s right next to International Pier.  It’s been nicknamed “Little Cozumel” as many shops, restaurants, and modern amenities are offered right within the terminal area.

Both International Pier and Puerta Maya are about 3 miles from San Miguel, but it is a safe and scenic walk to the downtown area which I have done a few times.   Taxis are cheap, but if you have extra time the walk is doable.

Sometimes, ships will have to anchor just offshore if it’s a very busy day with 7 or 8 cruise ships coming in.  In these cases the ships will tender passengers to some of the smaller piers near Puerta Maya.

23 Best Things to Do in Cozumel

So now let’s take a look at some things to do in Cozumel.   We’ll cover some of the best things to do on this island to give you some ideas for your upcoming excursions and adventures.

1.  Check out the amazing reefs

Cozumel is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef system in the world, and it is a paradise for those who like to dive and snorkel.

Because most of the island is surrounded by some of the most amazing coral reefs in the Western Caribbean, Cozumel has become a main attraction for thousands of expert divers every year.

Even if you just want to rent or bring along some snorkeling gear you will want to check out these pristine waters at one of the many coral reef locations.

Best places for snorkeling or diving:

• Villa Blanca Reef . Located between 2 cruise ship piers.  Wall after wall of beautiful reefs.
• Chankanaab Reef . Part of Chankanaab Park.  Reef is 300 yards from shore.  More on Chankanaab later.
• Paradise Reef . Near the marine park.  Lots of coral and sea life to see like nurse sharks and stingrays.  3 reefs 600 feet from the shore.
• Palancar Reef . Better for diving.   Stunning caves and drop-offs.
• El Cielo Reef . Great for beginner snorkelers.  Shallow water. Lots of starfish.
• Coral at Dzul Ha . 10 to 15 foot depth with plenty of lobster, crab, and all kinds of fish.   Near beach club and restaurant.
• Colombia Reef . Great for diving with 80 foot drop-off.  Find huge towers of coral, caves, caverns and marine creatures.

There are many more places you can dive and snorkel in Cozumel, so don’t look at this list as exhaustive. In fact, if you have a great reef to check out please let us know in the comment section below this post.  We will add it to the list if it looks good so everyone else can benefit.

The first time I went to Cozumel I brought my own snorkel gear and just pulled over at random places to check out the water.  It’s really hard NOT to see some amazing things in the water around Cozumel.

RELATED: Best Places in the Caribbean for Snorkeling

2.  Go on a Boat Tour

Since the water around Cozumel is so remarkable why not take a boat ride around it so you can see the whole thing on a shore excursion?

You can do this on a catamaran, glass-bottom boat, or even a private charter.   The nice thing about booking a snorkeling or diving excursion is that some of them will involve a boat ride to the reef and you will get to have a scenic boat ride at the same time.

3.  Take a Submarine Tour

Want to see the reefs without getting wet?  Then a submarine tour is just for you.   The submarine will descend 100 feet below the surface and will look through portholes to see amazing marine life, a sunken shipwreck, and even a 400 foot drop-off known as The Wall.

4.  Enjoy a Beautiful Beach Day (best beaches in Cozumel)

Cozumel has some of the most amazing beaches in all of Mexico and there are a variety to choose from.   You can choose a beach for it’s snorkeling opportunities, it’s relaxing atmosphere, or for its culinary delights that are nearby.

If you rent a vehicle you can just drive around to see the different beaches to see which is best for what you want your beach day to be like.  The eastern side of the island is rocky and exposed to the open ocean, but there are still some hidden away spots that are perfect for a beach day.

Here is a short list of some of our favorite beaches in Cozumel:

• Playa Chen Rio . On the eastern side but large rocks break up the surf. This is where some locals go and it’s not usually very crowded.  Some thick vegetation with sand and rocks.
• Playa Bonita . Romantic beach with white sands and gentle waves.  On the east.  Mayan ruins nearby.
• Playa Corona . Known for its great diving and underwater scenery.   Beach huts for shade.  On the west coast.
• Playa Uvas . If you want a Miami Beach kind of vibe with upscale loungers and shade spots this is your beach.
• Playa San Francisco . A lot of activities available at this popular 3 mile stretch of sand.
• Palancar Beach . 13 miles south of San Miguel.  Away from the hustle and bustle.  Lovely white sandy beach.

Are any beaches near the cruise ports in Cozumel ?  While there are some beaches close to Puerta Maya and International pier they will require a fee.  Park Royal Beach is just a 5-minute walk from these two terminals and will require $40 per person to access since it’s part of a hotel.  But the amenities and views from there are fantastic.

Have your own beach to add to this list?  Let us know in the comments below.

5.  Swim with stingrays

It’s an incredible experience to swim with the rays at Stingray Beach.  Don’t worry, the dangerous barbs have been removed.  You can both swim and snorkel with these amazing creatures.  It’s just a couple minutes from downtown.

6.  Visit Chankanaab National Park

It amazes me how many people have been to Cozumel and have never been to Chankanaab .  It’s one of my go-to places on the island.   It does cost $21 for adults and $14 for children to have access to the park, but once inside you will find enough things for everyone to do for the entire day.

There are great beaches, plenty of shaded loungers and hammocks, a pristine lagoon, alligators, a seal and sea lion show, dolphins, manatees, and so much more.  Want to just relax in a hammock tied to a couple palm trees while the kids go have fun?  This is your place in Cozumel.

If you want to swim with dolphins this is a great place to do it as well.

See a video of what Chankanaab is like below:

7.  Explore Mayan Ruins

Cozumel is not known for some of the most elaborate Mayan ruins in Mexico, but there are still some worth checking out if you are interested.

The largest Mayan ruins in Cozumel are at San Gervasio, located in the central part of the island.  This was a holy site dedicated to the goddess of fertility.

If you want truly spectacular Mayan ruins you can still see them during your cruise to Cozumel, but since they are on the main land of Mexico it will be an all-day event which will require a ferry ride.  Chichen Itza (recently named one of the 7 wonders of the world) and Tulum are the main Mayan sites you can see.  If you can only see one, check out Chichen Itza.  It’s truly spectacular.

8.  Tour the Chocolate Factory

I did the chocolate factory tour a few years ago and found it to be a really interesting experience.  It’s not a huge factory, but you get to see how the chocolate is locally made and then you get to make some yourself.  And of course the best part is sampling the chocolate after you are done.

It’s called Kaokao Chocolate Factory and is just a $15 or so cab ride away.  I recommend getting reservations ahead of time because time slots can fill up quickly.

9.  Zipline over Cozumel

There are a few different places for zipline thrill seekers.  Chankanaab does have a zipline course or you can take a zipline course that soars over some of the mangrove forest in Cozumel.  You will be 60 feet above the jungle floor and start off from 6 different canopy towers.    Most of the course can be done in about an hour so you will still have time for other activities.

10.  Go on a Cave Tour

Some of the most incredible caves are found on the mainland at Rio Secreto, where adventurers can explore a picturesque underwater river.  This place could easily be a wonder of the world.  Other cave tours start out with an ATV ride through the wild back roads of Cozumel.

11.  Go Horseback Riding

You’ve seen the pictures: a scenic beach background with someone riding a horse along the shoreline.  This is on my to-do list actually, and Cozumel is a great place to check it off.  You can ride horseback through the jungle and then along the beach, and then you can stop to get something to eat at Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club.

12.  Play a Round of Golf in Paradise

Cozumel Country Club is right near the shore and offers 18 holes of scenic beauty.  The fairways and greens may not be as lush as what you’re used to, but the wildlife and surroundings make up for it.  It’s about a 30 minute cab ride from the cruise port.

13.  Go Parasailing

The joy of parasailing is in the aerial views you get to soak in.  So, it’s even more enjoyable when those views are of some of the most pristine water along Mexico.    There’s just something about being hundreds of feet in the air, being pulled by a speed boat.   The only thing to keep in mind here is that you may be with a group.  This means you will have to wait your turn and may spend more time in the boat waiting than actually up in the air enjoying your parasailing experience.

14.  Join the Manatees for a Swim Encounter

This is also part of Chankanaab Park which is open from 9am to 5pm.  These slow-moving creatures are rarely seen in the wild so this excursion offers you the ability to get up close and personal with these “Mermaids of the Sea”.

15.  Join a Pirate Dinner Cruise

If you want to feel like a pirate for the day and get some great food along with some unique entertainment this is the activity for you.  I’ve read some rave reviews about the Jean Laffite Pirate Dinner Cruise but have not checked it out myself.   But for most cruises this option will take place too late in the day, so it’s really only doable if you are staying in Cozumel for a few nights.  It goes from 6pm to 9pm, but I still wanted to put it in this list.

16.  Hit the Shops

You don’t’ even have to leave the cruise terminal to find places to shop, but do yourself and the Cozumel locals a favor by venturing out and shopping from local vendors.  T-shirts and trinkets are incredible affordable and I haven’t found shop owners to be too pushy compared to other ports.

The Royal Village Shopping Center has some really interesting places to shop, including one place that sells all kinds of medieval type armor and décor.

Everyone needs at least 1 or 2 Mexican blankets at home and you will find them everywhere in Cozumel.

You can pay in pesos or US dollars.  In fact, you will see a lot of signs with prices in US dollars.

Important note: Just be careful on using local ATM machines.  Last time I used an ATM machine in Cozumel I had my card information hacked.  Stick to indoor bank ATM’s if you can and always cover your hand as you type in your pin.

17.  Discover Mexico

You can’t see all of Mexico during your cruise, but this little stop will allow you to at least feel like you did.  The tour at Discover Mexico Park will allow you to experience the taste, culture, history, heritage, art, and music of Mexico.  There are miniature scale models of famous sites from around Mexico and a tour guide will talk you through some of this country’s most important landmarks.

18.  See the Cozumel Pearl Farm

Not many cruisers venture up to the northern part of the islands to see this family-run pearl farm, but you should.  After seeing how the pearls are grown and harvested you can snorkel out to see the pearl hatchery.  While snorkeling you can see an underwater life-size Virgen de Guadalupe statue.  Tours can last about 6 hours.

19.  Take a Mini-Sub Dive Tour

If you love the idea of scuba diving but you want something a bit simpler, this might be the Cozumel activity for you.  No previous diving experience is required.  You simply “wear” a sort of “sub suit” that allows you to go 20 feet below the water and have unobstructed views of the marine life.  And with Cozumel’s reputation for great reefs and pristine coral, this is a great thing to do while cruising to this beautiful island.

20.  Join the Amazing Cozumel Race

Just like you’ve seen on TV, you can explore Cozumel while cracking clues, solving mysteries, and playing adventurous games with fellow travelers.   This competitive journey will take about 4.5 hours and there is a post-race award ceremony that follows.   People seem to really enjoy this excursion.  Even if the it ends up raining you won’t be able to dampen the fun vibe on this activity.

21.  Swim with Whale Sharks

Sure you can swim with dophins and stingrays on Cozumel, but if you really want to kick things up a notch and take some impressive photos for your friends back home, swimming with whale sharks is the ticket.  Every summer the whale sharks come in to the Yucatan Peninsula, so you can snorkel along with them during their annual migration (June – September).  The feeling of being so close to these immense creatures is unforgettable.

22.  Visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Nature lovers can indulge in the island’s largest ecological reserve at Punta Sur.   Whether you want to enjoy the white sandy beaches, climb the stairs to the historic Celarain Lighthouse, or catch up with the local crocodiles, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is a gem on Cozumel.   You can find a variety of flora, fauna, flowers, birds, and even sea turtles.  Visitors can also enjoy the Navigation Museum which is the old lighthouse keeper’s home.  There they will learn about the island’s rich history of Mayans and pirates that sailed the Caribbean waters.

23.  Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Cozumel Chef Food Tours

Are you a foodie?  Taste the full flavors of Mexico with a food tour that lets you sample the best the islands has to offer.  Cozumel Chef Food Tours is all-inclusive and takes you to a Yucatecan restaurant, a traditional Mexican market, a bakery, and a few other stops along the way on this 3 hour tour.  Want to taste a truly authentic quesadilla?  This is a food tour you will brag about when you get home.  The cost is $80 per person, and the tours typically start at 11am, perfect for cruise passengers.

You can also eat at some local restaurants yourself.  Here are some places to eat in Cozumel that some of our readers have recommended:

• Los Tacotales –  A great affordable option for street tacos and pozole in an open-air restaurant.
• Casa Cuzamil – For seafood lovers on a budget, get your fix of shrimp tacos, grilled fish, and ceviche.  There’s also a sports bar here.
• La Cocay – This Mediterranean and Italian steakhouse has a lovely garden setting and serves everything from small plates and tapas to steaks and pizza.
• La Candela – A popular place among the locals of Cozumel, this restaurant serves Mexican and Caribbean entrees for mid-range prices.  I really enjoyed my experience here.  Great portions for hot meals in the heart of town.
• Ix Kool Mayan – If you want true, authentic Mayan dishes, this is the place for you.  A higher-end restaurant, this establishment serves pork panucho, cochinita and other delicacies you will be hard pressed to find anywhere else.
• Guido’s – A combination of seafood and Italian dishes, Guido’s offers a fine dining experience with open-air seating.  Both the service and food are typically very good.
• Buccanos At Night – Situated right on the coast, this restaurant is known for elegant dining and exquisite dishes.  You can order seafood or local dishes at Buccanos at Night, which is considered by many to be one of the best places to eat on the island.

Other Helpful Info When Visiting Cozumel

Renting a vehicle.

There is a plethora of options for renting a vehicle and driving around Cozumel as well.  The island is easy to navigate in a matter of a couple hours if you don’t make too many stops.

The best way to tour Cozumel in your rental is to start by heading south and drive along the shoreline.  If you’re driving a scooter or bike you will have your own road to travel on, making the journey stress-free.  The further you get away from the city the more open and serene the landscape becomes.

How big is Cozumel? The whole island is 28 miles long and about 10 miles wide.  I have rented both cars and scooters to drive around Cozumel. 

One thing that should be noted about renting a car, though.  If you do happen to damage the vehicle in any way you may be required to pay for the repairs before you leave the island.   I’ve never had any mishaps, but I have heard that this can be an issue.

As soon as you get off the ship you will find vendors who are able to find you just about any type of vehicle to rent if you want to explore on your own.

Renting Bikes and Scooters

Some of the downtown area can get crowded with cars and people, but if you want to venture out on your own renting a bike might be a good option.  There are many shops that will rent scooters and bikes.  If you don’t want to have to work too much electric scooters area available too.  And if you want to go beach hopping on your bike you can get one with fatter tires.

Taxis in Cozumel

If you want to take a taxis in Cozumel it is easy and affordable.  The prices are set, and you don’t need to negotiate.  There is a slightly higher price if you have more than 4 people and a bit more if you have 6-8 people in your group.

I recommend grabbing a local taxi right at the cruise port to make sure you’re getting the real deal.

You can pay with US dollars, but it will be cheaper if you exchange for pesos first and use them.  Credit cards are not accepted by taxi drivers so you will need to pay in cash.  Also, a 10-15% tip is appreciated.

Here are some prices you can use as a sample for taxi ride rates. (These prices will more than likely be different when you travel and are just for reference.)  Prices are in US Dollars and are from the starting point of Puerta Maya:

• Downtown: $8.00
• Discover Mexico: $8.00
• Chankanaab: $12.00
• Chocolate Factory: $11.00
• Playa Corona: $13.00
• Punta Sur: $35.00
• Airport: $16.00
• Full Island Tour: $100.00

Take a ferry

Cozumel is just 12 miles from the mainland of Mexico. Many cruisers love to take the 45-minute ferry from Cozumel to Play Del Carmen to check out some great resorts and beaches.

If you’re going to see some Mayan ruins on the mainland you will end up on a ferry to the mainland.  But if you want to pay for it yourself to check out Playa Del Carmen it will cost around $10.

The ferry port is not far from downtown, so hopping on the ferry to see some more sights in Mexico might make sense if you have time during your cruise.  Some excursions also require a ferry ride to the mainland to see Mayan Ruins or explore scenic caves.

Where to eat in Cozumel?

The non-adventurous will be glad to know there are a few American staples in Cozumel.   There is a Subway, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks right near the Punta Langosta terminal and even a Burger King further inland.

But for those who want a truly authentic experience Cozumel does not disappoint.  There is a myriad of restaurants.  You can get a casual, relaxing dining experience at one of the many eateries along the beach or try something more upscale.

I’ve had some incredibly delicious tacos just by stopping at one of the local vendors along the shoreline.  And don’t forget to get some local churros.

Cozumel is an island that is known for exquisite seafood combined with common Mexican foods as tortillas, beans, and salsa.   You can find affordable lobster dishes and plenty of options especially in the main city of San Miguel.

Of course Cozumel has the iconic Senor Frogs and Bubba Gump Shrimp if you want an old standby.

Here are a few places we recommend for eating in Cozumel:

• Costa Brava .  Love eating here. Authentic Mexican food at a reasonable price. Friendly staff.
• Casa Mission .  For truly local Mexican food and seafood.  Located near the center of San Miguel
• La Mission Restaurant . Traditional Mexican food right near the shore.  Really great décor and great food.
• Guido’s Restaurant . Swiss-Italian restaurant with a beautiful patio and daily specials.  Right on the main street of San Miguel with great views of the ocean.
• Pepe’s Grill . Upscale dining with amazing seafood.  Owned by one of the oldest family’s on Cozumel.

Have you eaten in Cozumel and want to let us know a great place to check out?  Let us know in the comment section so the rest of our readers can benefit as well.

We Want to Hear from You

What are some things to do in Cozumel that you would add to the list?  Let us know in the comments below so everyone can benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Cozumel Cruise Port

Q: how can i get to playa del carmen from cozumel cruise port.

A: Playa del Carmen is a popular destination located on the mainland, just a short 45-minute ferry ride away from Cozumel. You can easily take a ferry from the ferry terminal in Cozumel to Playa del Carmen and explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and beaches.

Q: Where can I find a taxi at Cozumel Cruise Port?

A: Taxis are readily available at the Cozumel Cruise Port. You can find taxi stands near the cruise terminal where you can easily hail a taxi to take you to your desired destination on the island.

Q: What is Puerta Maya?

A: Puerta Maya is a popular cruise ship port in Cozumel. It is one of the main cruise ship terminals in Cozumel and is known for its convenient location near many tourist attractions and activities.

Q: What is the best way to explore Cozumel during a cruise?

A: Personally, I prefer to explore Cozumel on my own.  If you’re new to the island you can just hire a tax to take you to all the best spots and get an overview of the island.  But for those worried about getting back to the ship on time, it’s best to just take book a shore excursion.  I’ve booked excursions, hired taxis, rented scooters, and rented cars in Cozumel, and it’s a very easy place to navigate.

Q: Can I visit Cozumel independently without a shore excursion?

A: Yes, you can certainly explore Cozumel independently without a shore excursion. The port area is well-connected to the rest of the island, and you can easily hire a taxi or rent a car to explore the island at your own pace.

Q: What are some popular cruise itineraries that include Cozumel?

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We rented a jeep and toured the island. Our favourite restaurant was Carlos & Charlies. https://www.carlosncharliesbeachclub.com/eng/location.html . It is a fun place to eat. The staff all have a good time and will take your picture with all the staff in it.

We like to go to Ernesto’s to eat. It is right on the ocean and the food it great!

Any suggestions on a parasailing company to use? My cruise ship does not offer through excursion, so we will have to find something on our own in Cozumel.

My chef husband and I took an excellent cooking class (with a lunch of our dishes) at Josefina’s Cooking School – Josefina’s Cocina Con Alma, http://www.cozumelchef.com – which also included a shopping trip to a local market and the opportunity to get tortillas hot from the oven! The food we made was unique and delicious, as were the margaritas we made 🙂 , we got to see a lovely residential neighborhood off the beaten tourist path, a great recipe book of dishes you do Not see on most USA Mexican menus, and my husband added several of the dishes we made to the menu at our Inn in West Virginia!

Thanks so much for passing that along, Elisse! Sounds like you had a wonderful time treating your palates in Cozumel.

thank you, excellent informations

You need to try Ernesto’s Fajitas, just about 2/3 blocks to the left of the International Pier. We have eaten three for years. Jose is the best waiter. A view of your ship from the terrace is a plus if you are docked at this pier. Best shrimp fajitas, quacamole, and key lime pie.

Awesome tip, Barb! Thanks so much for stopping by and helping our readers find another great place to eat in Cozumel. I will have to try Ernesto’s next time I’m in Cozumel.

Jonathan, great information, but what about handicapped access? I must use a walker and The Bride uses a cane. Are any parts handicapped friendly? What about the streets? Do some cruise ships have to use a tender? Your suggestions would be appreciated.

I’m not sure how much help I can offer but you don’t have to walk very far off the ship before you can find a taxi or car service to pick you up and take you where you want to go. Once you get into town the sidewalks are not very handicap friendly as there is a lot of uneven pavement. I do remember seeing some beach wheelchairs at the beach at Chankanaab Park and that’s a great place to spend the day relaxing. Almost all the ships will be at a pier and will not need to use a tender. Only if all the piers are full does a ship need to use a tender at Cozumel. Hope this helps.

Found this post on Pinterest right before I left on a trip with a bunch of people who didn’t want to pay the money for the excursions. We decided to eat at La Mission upon your advice and we loved it! The atmosphere was great especially since it seemed 10 degrees cooler inside. The food was great and the staff was too. Probably the cleanest bathroom in Mexico as well. Thank you for a great post.

That’s so great to hear, Tiffany! Glad you enjoyed your dining experience at La Mission and thanks so much for coming back to let us know. That means a lot!

The trip to the San Gervasio Ruins is very worth it. I was there probably 20 years ago & excavation was ongoing. Would love to return to see what’s new. Lots of iguanas there – we were there during mating season so saw some beautiful colors.

Don’t miss Pancho’s Backyard downtown! Best Margaritas in Cozumel! Me. San his all day all inclusive beach club. #1 place to spend the day!??! Trust me!

Thanks for the informative and detailed information on Cozumel! We visited there on a cruise many years ago and missed nearly everything listed in the article, but still loved this beautiful island.

Another noteworthy thing for those travelers who like to see the biggest/smallest/longest/oldest etc things on their travels, as our kids do, Cozumel is home to the smallest Hard Rock Cafe in the world. Not very Mexican, but a great place to stop for a chocolate shake on a hot day!

Thank you Jonathan for those great tips! Next time you come to Cozumel, try out the free walking tour 🙂

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Home » 12 Best Cozumel Shore Excursions

12 Best Cozumel Shore Excursions

Last updated on September 24th, 2023 at 09:41 pm

Cozumel Mexico is the most popular cruise destination in the Caribbean , with over 3 million visitors annually and a favorite among the major cruise lines.

Taking a shore excursion during your time here is definitely worth it, no matter the excursion you choose.

Cozumel itself is an island off the coast of Playa del Carmen Mexico, with 3 cruise ship ports.

The first and most popular cruise terminal in Cozumel is the International Pier, located about 3 miles from the downtown area of San Miguel. Filled with shops and restaurants, it’s a wonderful gateway to your visit to Cozumel.

The second pier is located in downtown San Miguel, which is the largest city on Cozumel island. The pier is directly across from shopping, restaurants, a Starbucks and is a popular spot to catch a taxi for a tour of the island.

The third cruise terminal on Cozumel, Puerta Maya, is used only by Carnival Cruise Lines. This exciting port is filled with over 50 shops and restaurants and is your gateway to your Cozumel shore excursion.

Cozumel in general is a safe island with most living on the island employed in the tourism industry. It’s far enough away from the mainland that anyone wanting to cause trouble with petty crime will not make the effort or expense to get over to Cozumel.

Touring around the island without a shore excursion or group tour is feasible and safe, unlike other destinations in Mexico, however, if you want to make the most of your visit to Cozumel, a shore excursion is suggested.

Below we have compiled a list of the 12 BEST COZUMEL SHORE EXCURSIONS , provided by the largest non-cruiseline shore excursions company, Shore Excursions Group .

Table of Contents

#1. Mayan Ruins of Tulum

Visit an ancient Mayan city, the only one built on a coastline! A 45-minute ferry ride, followed by an air-conditioned coach bus ride will take you to this ancient city.

Located across on the mainland near Playa del Carmen where you can explore ruins, walls, temples all with a professional guide giving you a full overview of the history of the ruins. For any history buff, this 2 hour tour of the ruins is not to be missed!

Click here to get more info on the Mayan Ruins of Tulum excursion shore excursion

#2. Cozumel Jeep & Beach Adventure

This 5 hour tour has it all. Adventure, swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing & food! What more could you want?  The adventure begins by being paired with 2 others (4 people per Jeep) as you begin your guided tour of the island.

Follow paved roads, dirt paths and sandy terrain, visiting multiple sights of interest around Cozumel along the way.

A highlight of this Cozumel shore excursion is a stop at Punta Sur Bay where you can take in the beauty, either by relaxing on the beach, swimming or snorkeling 100 yards out to a shallow reef.

Following your beach and snorkeling adventure, head over to a beautiful beach resort for a late afternoon lunch and drink and then back to the ship

Click here to get more info on the Cozumel Jeep & Beach Adventure shore excursion

#3. Minisub Dive Tour

This 30 minute underwater tour is an experience not soon forgotten! After receiving a few tips to ensure your safety underwater, you will enter a tiny one-person submarine and begin your underwater adventure.

Just 15 to 20 feet below the surface of the water is a whole new world: colorful fish, plant life, and coral formations. If you’ve dreamed about being Jacques Cousteau, now is your chance!

Click here to get more info on the Minisub Dive Tour shore excursion

#4. Cozumel Electric Bike Ride & Snorkel

Get some exercise by pedalling your way around Cozumel on this guided tour, or let the state-of-the-art electric motor do the work for you.

Either way, you will enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells as you tour the island with a professional guide to show you around. Stop at a local bar/restaurant for lunch and drink.

The tour also includes a stop at Sky Reef for a 45 minute guided snorkel. See underwater life come alive in vibrant color. This 3-hour tour will be a highlight of your time in Cozumel.

Click here to get more info on the Cozumel Electric Bike Ride & Snorkel shore excursion

#5. Buggy Island Overview & Snorkel

During your excursion, you will tour ancient ruins, a historic town, drive along the scenic coastline and stop for a guide snorkel tour at SkyReef Beach Club.

Experience local culture, dive into local, traditional cuisine and enjoy this 4.5-hour excursion before heading back to the ship.

For guests with mobility issues, this tour may be a perfect fit as folding wheelchairs and mobility aids can be taken along, and walking is minimal.

Click here to get more info on the Buggy Island Overview & Snorkel shore excursion

#6. Flavors of Mexico: Chocolate, Tequila & Tacos!

If you didn’t get enough to eat on the ship and you have a flair for local cuisine, this tour is for you!

This excursion takes you to Discover Mexico Park where you will take part in a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, followed by a Tequila tour and presentation on the Tequila making process.

A visit to the Popular Museum of Art will immerse you in the Mexican art scene with colorful mosaics and works of art from local artists.

And, last but certainly not least, a Taco buffet and drinks will top off this exciting shore excursion.

Click here to get more information on the Flavors of Mexico shore excursion

#7. Atlantis Submarine Adventure

Once inside this US Coast Guard certified submarine you will descend 100 feet and have the chance to experience a whole new world that few will ever see!

This 2 hour excursion is an experience you will never forget – You’re welcome to bring along your camera to help you remember the incredible sights!

Click here to get more information on the Atlantis Submarine Adventure shore excursion

#8. Dolphin Swim Adventure at Chankanaab National Marine Park

During this excursion, you will learn about dolphins, their habitat, and behavior and then it’s time to get your life jacket on.

Now you’re ready to get in the water and actually swim with the dolphins!

For 90 minutes you will interact with the dolphins, swim together, and be amazed as they communicate with you. This 5-star excursion won’t disappoint!

Click here to get more information on the Dolphin Swim Adventure shore excursion

#9. ATV Adventure to Jade Caverns

Enjoy this 2-hour off-road adventure on your very own ATV. After suiting up in protective gear, you’re off to traverse the jungle and visit a Mayan coral cave.

Stop for a refreshing swim and admire stalactite formations and learn about the natives who previously lived in these areas many years ago.

This 3 hour ATV Adventure is the perfect way to see the jungle of Cozumel Mexico!

Click here to get more information on the ATV Adventure to Jade Caverns shore excursion

#10. Manatee Swim and Chankanaab Park

Swimming with Dolphins is popular, but what about swimming with Manatees? This unique shore excursion lets you swim with these massive 1300 pound gentle creatures.

While the Manatee swimming portion of this excursion only lasts 15 minutes, the Chankanaab National Marine Park offers many more activities that you’re welcome to take part in, including swimming, snorkeling, visit the museum or just relax on the beach.

This is included in the cost of your shore excursion.

Click here to get more information on the Manatee Swim & Chankanaab Park shore excursion

#11. Playa Uvas Beach Getaway (Beverages & Food)

Spend the day at the resort being treated like royalty, with abundant food and drinks as you soak up the sun in this beautiful setting.

But – just because you enjoy relaxing, doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do! Take part in a 30 minute guided snorkel or a kayak tour to help burn off those extra cruise calories.

Click here to get more information on the Playa Uvas Beach Getaway shore excursion

#12. Cozumel Shore Snorkel & Lunch

Snorkel in Cozumel once and you will see why this is one of the premier snorkeling destinations in the world! You don’t have to travel far from shore to see spectacular marine life including colorful fish, coral reefs, and plant life.

Don’t worry if you’ve never snorkeled before – This particular excursion is designed with beginners in mind. Equipment is provided as well as professional instruction before entering the water.

A Mexican-themed beach lunch is included in this 2-hour excursion, before heading back to the ship.

Click here to get more information on the Cozumel Shore Snorkel & Lunch excursion

When your ship stops in Cozumel – Get out and explore!

Book a shore excursion , walk around, enjoy the beautiful weather, go shopping and so much more. It’s no wonder Cozumel is the top cruise destination in the Caribbean.

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19 Top-Rated Cozumel Shore Excursions for Your Next Cruise

Cruisers looking for a little bit of everything should consider a cruise itinerary that includes Cozumel Mexico. Officially known as San Miguel de Cozumel, this fantastic island is located just south of Cancun and offers some of the best shore excursions and day trips on the Yucatan Peninsula.

The list of things to do in Cozumel is quite varied. The island is has everything from beautiful beaches and coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, to ancient Maya ruins and vibrant culture. So there’s plenty to keep you entertained!

19 best Cozumel shore excursions

With dozens of Cozumel cruise excursions to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to take. So we did our research and looked at which Cozumel day trips are the most popular and get good reviews.

Here’s a list of the best excursions Cozumel has to offer you as a cruise ship passenger. With such a wide variety of things to do in Cozumel , we’re sure you’ll find the perfect activity for your day in port!

1. Enjoy a catamaran cruise, snorkel, and beach party

El Cielo Beach tops the list of cruise shore excursions in Cozumel—a secluded sandbar that can only be reached by boat. Here, you can snorkel and play in shallow waters surrounded by starfish.

This 5-hour catamaran excursion includes El Cielo plus a private white-sand beach where you can relax on a lounge chair or hammock, play on a floating water park, kayak, or paddleboard. A delicious lunch and unlimited drinks are included.

2. Soak up the sun at Paradise Beach Club

Beaches rank among the best Royal Caribbean excursions in Cozumel. There are plenty you can visit on your own.

However, if you’re looking for Cozumel beach excursions, all inclusive is the way to go. Many cruisers say that Paradise Beach Club is one of the best beach clubs in Cozumel. The beach here is beautiful, and the staff is very friendly and attentive. Buy an all-inclusive pass to hang out all day.

You’ll lounge on chairs shaded by palm trees, grab lunch at an onsite restaurant or have lunch served to you on the beach, and drink your fill of domestic liquors, beers, and soft drinks from the open bar. It’s the perfect beach break—no planning required.

ⓘ TIP: The easiest way to get to Paradise Beach is by taking a taxi from your cruise ship or hotel. It is about a 10-15 minute taxi ride and costs about $16 each way (per TAXI not per person) for a car for up to four people. There are also taxi VANS that take up to 8 people.

3. Explore Mayan ruins in Tulum

It’s easy to see why so many cruise passengers say Tulum is one of the best carnival excursions in Cozumel. Tulum is a well-preserved Maya walled city that was once a major port. It’s located an hour south of Playa del Carmen on the coast and makes for a great day trip from Cozumel.

The site has several structures you can explore, including El Castillo, which sits atop a cliff 40 feet (12 meters) above the Caribbean Sea.

If you want to learn more about Maya culture and history, there is a small on-site museum with some interesting artifacts. You can also stroll along the beach below the ruins or go for a swim to see the ruins from the water.

Some Cozumel tours combine visiting the Tulum ruins with other attractions. For example, this excursion takes you to both the Tulum and Coba ruins and ends with swimming in a cenote.

4. Snorkel and swim with stingrays

Swimming with sharks and rays at Stingray Beach has to rank as one of the most unique Cozumel excursions of all. This lets you interact up close with this iconic marine species in crystal clear waters. You’ll get to hold, touch, feed, and snorkel with stingrays and hear about the coral restoration efforts at the park.

This tour is 1.5 hours, starting with meeting the stingrays in waist-deep water for 30 minutes. After feeling the rays softly brush against your legs, you’ll get to move to a deeper enclosure where you can snorkel with rays and a myriad of colorful coral reef fish.

5. Spend a day at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

If you’re looking for cheap Cozumel excursions or a Cozumel excursion for families, this one’s for you! Located in the National Reef Marine Park, Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park has plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. In our opinions, Chankanaab deserves its reputation as one of the best Carnival excursions in Cozumel.

Be prepared, because Chankanaab National Park isn’t your normal national park. A day pass to Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park gives you sea lion and manatee shows, a botanical garden, a beach club, a crocodile farm, and access to the beach and marine park. This is a good option if you just want to lounge by the pool, snorkel offshore, soak up some sun, and take a dip in the lagoon.

However, if you’re looking for a Cozumel excursion that includes more adventure, Chankanaab has more to offer you. There may be an additional fee, but you can snorkel with manatees , scuba, snuba, swim with dolphins , enjoy a tequila tasting, participate in a temazcal , and more.

6. Tour the island of Cozumel

If you’d like to explore Cozumel and learn more about the history and culture of the island, then a 5-hour private island tour with an expert guide is a must. You’ll also get to know more about Cozumel’s fascinating archaeological wonders.

After pickup, you’ll be taken to some of the main sights on the island. This includes the local market, parks, iconic neighborhoods and religious buildings. You’ll also get to visit Chen Rio Beach on the east of the island, before arriving at the famous rock formation known as ‘El Mirador’.

To learn about the island’s history, you’ll visit San Gervasio Mayan ruins and drive through the traditional lands of the Cedral where there’s a Mayan settlement. On this tour you’ll also learn about the interesting Holy Cross traditions from your tour guide.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an exciting and unique way to explore Cozumel, the Amazing Cozumel Race is definitely worth considering. This interactive half-day clue based adventure game is a perfect combination of sightseeing tour and scavenger hunt.

Teams of two to eight people will compete to solve mysteries and crack clues as they navigate self-guided stops around the city. It’s a great way to see the sights and have fun with friends, family, or coworkers.

At the end of the Amazing Race, there will be an awards ceremony with prizes for the top finishers, as well as complimentary beverages and snacks for all participants.

7. Take a food tour

You can take a variety of food tours in Cozumel, ranging from tequila tastings to chocolate tours. You can also find Cozumel cooking classes where you can learn how to make local Mexican dishes yourself!

No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to leave with a full stomach and a new appreciation for Yucatecan cuisine.

8. Visit Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a picturesque small island not far from Cozumel, famous for its white sandy beaches, Mayan temple and sea turtle sanctuary.

If you’re keen to visit Isla Mujeres as a day trip from Cozumel, one of the best ways is on a scenic catamaran tour. Spend the day relaxing in the sunshine, snorkeling, and taking in some of the most idyllic Caribbean ocean views.

There are several tour options to choose from. This 10-hour catamaran tour with lunch and an open bar , includes hotel transfers and stops off for snorkeling at a coral reef park on the way to Isla Mujeres. Prepare to be mesmerized by all the fish that gather near the boat as your guide sprinkles fish food into the sea. Enjoy a buffet lunch on the beach and sit under a palm tree if it gets too sunny.

Another option is a flexible and high-speed round-trip ferry ride from Cancun to Isla Mujeres . This luxury ferry ride features reclining leather seats, a kids area and a snack bar as well as other amenities. Carrying up to 800 passengers, there are multiple ferry crossing times each day which means that you can easily visit Isla Mujeres as a day trip and plan your own itinerary while there. It is, however, advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance.

9. Go on an Atlantis Submarine expedition

Want to explore the undersea world but stay dry? The Atlantis Submarine is perfect for you! This 63-foot-long, 48-passenger submarine will take you on an underwater tour of Cozumel’s stunning reef system.

You don’t need to be a certified diver to go on this tour, and the submarine provides all the necessary safety gear. The submarine descends to a depth of 100 feet (30 meters), where you will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, eels, and turtles.

The Atlantis Sub is a great activity for families with children, as it is both safe and educational. Your knowledgeable guide will provide lots of insightful information as you journey along the reef.

10. Enjoy a beach break at Playa Mia Grand Beach & Water Park

A day pass to Playa Mia gives you access to one of the best public beaches in Cozumel Mexico. Playa Mia has more than 20 water park attractions, lounge chairs on a white sand beach, kayaks and sailboats, a kids’ playground, a swim-up pool bar, and more.

You can also upgrade to an all-you-can-eat buffet, open bar, Hobie cat and clear kayak access, towels, lockers, and beach umbrellas.

11. Scuba dive the second-largest coral reef in the world

The clear turquoise waters around Cozumel are the home of the second-largest barrier reef in the world: the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. With visibility over 100 feet, this makes Cozumel a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Palancar Reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, including turtles, stingrays, eels, and over 500 species of fish. The reef is also home to a shipwreck, the El Cid, which sunk in 1961.

On this two-tank scuba diving tour , you’ll dive with a local guide who shares commentary about the marine ecosystem in Mexico. The excursion includes two tanks for two dives, a guide, and boat transportation from Cozumel

Or if you prefer, you can do a one-tank reef dive with full-day access to Chankanaab National Park . This is the perfect scuba diving excursion for certified and noncertified divers. You can easily enjoy the tropical fish, underwater sculptures, and coral reef formations, then relax at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park. Enjoy full access to the amenities including the beach, hammocks, shaded palapas, sea lion show, and crocodile exhibits.

12. Snorkel in the Caribbean

Surrounded by coral reefs that are brimming with brightly colored marine life, snorkeling is one of the most popular activities on Cozumel. If you want to experience the best snorkeling spots and learn about the local biodiversity, then this fully guided half day snorkeling tour to Palancar and Columbia reefs, El Cielo Sandbar and El Cielito Beach is an unmissable opportunity.

Palancar reef on the southwest of Cozumel is known for its abundant marine life including sunfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, moray eels, nurse sharks and barracuda. The Colombia reef is well known for frequent turtle sightings and dive-throughs, and the El Cielo Sandbar is a shallow water area that’s popular for seeing large starfish in magnificent turquoise waters. And the pristine El Cielito Beach lives up to its name of being a “little heaven”.

13. Zipline through the jungle

If you enjoy adventure and fancy an adrenaline rush, then you might like to try ziplining through the Mexican jungle on Cozumel .

You’ll get to see Cozumel from a different perspective above the trees from 6 different canopy platforms where you’ll then zip along lines in a harness. This is a great thrill-seeking activity for families and children and usually lasts around an hour.

Your tour starts with a safety briefing where you’ll be given a helmet. You’ll then climb up about 45 feet to the first platform where your harness will be secured. And then you can start cruising above the trees on the zip lines, with views of the ocean in the distance.

14. Go horseback riding on the beach

With miles of white sandy beaches, Cozumel is an island paradise for horseback riding. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a novice, you can take a horseback beach riding tour that pairs you with a horse for your skill level.

Enjoy 30-minutes in the saddle on Mr Sanchos Beach where you’ll pass mangroves, forests, farms and sparkling Caribbean waters. This tour is perfect for families, couples and friends, although it is not recommended if you have back problems, are pregnant, or are over 200 pounds.

15. Explore cenotes and underground caves

Cenotes are naturally formed water reservoirs or sinkholes that are common in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Formed by limestone bedrock that collapsed leaving a hole or underground water cave, cenotes come in many shapes and sizes – some forming underground labyrinths of connected caves.

You can spend 3 to 3.5 hours in a small group tour exploring the cenote at Rio Secreto in Playa del Carmen. This cenote is dramatically decorated with natural stalactites and stalagmites, perfect for taking plenty of incredible instagram-worthy photos.

Your tour leader will guide you through a network of rivers and underground caves, after kitting you out with a wetsuit for swimming. After all the swimming, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite – luckily your light lunch offers lots of local foods.

16. ATV adventure/dune buggy excursion

Are you an adrenaline junkie or an outdoor adventure enthusiast? Then you might like to combine three of the top adventure tours near Cozumel in one action-packed day tour. This 4-hour family-friendly tour includes ziplining, riding through the jungle on a 4×4 ATV, and exploring an underwater cenote.

After being collected from your hotel in Cancun or Riviera Maya, you’ll  be taken to the heart of the jungle where you’ll zip through the air between canopy platforms, along 6 zip lines and 3 interactive bridges.

You’ll then have 50 minutes to explore the jungle on a Honda 220cc ATV with your guide, getting a glimpse of the local wildlife and scenery.

Finish off your tour with a refreshing dip in a Mayan cenote at “Ruta de los Cenotes” before being dropped back at your hotel.

17. Visit Mayan Bee Sanctuary

Bees are one of the most famous insects on the planet and according to Mayan folklore, their honey is a gift from the gods.

Learn about bees and the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey, as well and how ancient Mayans valued honey for its healing powers when you visit the Mayan Bee Sanctuary in Cozumel .

Your guide will explain how bee hives are intricately structured, how colonies organizational structures work, and the role of the queen bee and her drones, the guardian, and the princesses.

And at the end of the tour you’ll also get to sample some different honey varieties and learn about what other products bees can help us to make.

18. Take a glass-bottom boat ride

If you want to observe sea life from the ocean, then a glass bottom boat ride is a great way to do it.

Perfect for non-swimmers as a way to get a glimpse of underwater life, you can hop on a Cozumel 2-hour glass bottom boat tour that includes optional snorkeling at 3 of the island’s best-known reefs.

This glass-bottom boat has a sun deck for those who want to catch some rays and enjoy the above-water views. And its glass bottom allows you to watch life underwater without having to get wet.

19. Play at Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park on the Maya Riviera is one of the top Yucatan Peninsula tourist attractions. Boasting over 40 attractions, this expansive nature park is definitely a place you can spend a full day exploring and being entertained.

That’s why purchasing the full day Xcaret Park pass —which includes lunch PLUS a nighttime cultural show—may be the highlight of your vacation.

Some of the top things to do at Xcaret include the Coral Reef Aquarium, the Manatee Lagoon, the Butterfly Pavilion and Spider Monkey Island.

Float along a network of below ground-level rivers that flow into a cenote; relax on pristine beaches and snorkel in sheltered coves; visit a Mayan village and Mexican cemetery; take a raft tour down the Paradise River; explore authentic Mayan temple ruins; walk along lush jungle trails; and explore Jaguar Island. There are an abundance of things to do and see at Xcaret – which means you’ll have to plan your day carefully.

There are also a range of activities in the park that are an additional charge, but worth considering. For example you can swim with dolphins, swim with nurse sharks, or have a close encounter with a stingray.

The evening performance with dinner is another highlight of visiting Xcaret. The Xcaret México Espectacular will give you an overview of ancient history and folklore at the Gran Tlachco arena where over 300 performers in bright costumes will entertain you.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, no matter what you’re into, there’s a Cozumel shore excursion that you’ll enjoy. When you start planning a vacation to this Mexican island, be sure to include one or more of the experiences mentioned in this article to make the most of your time there.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to relax on the beach, you’re sure to find the perfect excursion in Cozumel.

Want to save these Cozumel excursions for later?

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Is it better to book excursions through the cruise ship?

You can take excursions through the cruise line, book tours yourself, or visit Cozumel attractions on your own with advice from a good travel guide .

Each option has pros and cons. Your decision will depend on your budget, how much time you want to spend onshore, and whether you prefer the convenience of having everything taken care of for you.

Here are some things to consider:

Booking excursions through the cruise line

• Good if you like traveling with a large group
• Can get a full refund if the weather is bad
• Transportation, guide, and admission fees are often included
• More likely to get back on the ship on time
• Can be more expensive than booking a tour yourself
• You may not be able to customize the itinerary to your interests
• You may not get the same level of service as you would with a private tour guide
• You may not be able to hear your guide
• May require a minimum number of people to run

Booking tours yourself

• Can be cheaper than booking through the cruise line
• More options to choose from
• You can customize the itinerary to your interests and any special needs
• Your guide can answer all your questions
• You can choose smaller tour groups or go solo with a private guide
• A smaller group size means you can spend more time at each stop
• You can usually change plans if you want to stay longer or leave early
• Have to do your research to find reputable tour operators
• No guarantee you’ll get back on the ship on time
• Admission and transportation fees are not always included
• Doesn’t usually have a minimum number of people required to run
• Usually can’t be canceled at the last minute

Going on your own

• Can be the cheapest option
• You’re free to come and go as you please
• You have total control over your itinerary
• You’re responsible for getting back on the ship on time
• It may be more difficult to find your way around
• Admission fees are not always included
• May require more research in advance

ⓘ TIP: You can easily get to Playa del Carmen from Cozumel by ferry. Buy tickets here.

Frequently asked questions about cruising to Cozumel (FAQ)

Yes, the Port of Cozumel is open to cruise ships.

Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean Sea. It lies about 10 miles (16 km) off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

The best way to get to Cozumel is by plane or cruise ship. There are many direct flights from major airports in the US and Canada. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Playa del Carmen.

The best time to visit Cozumel is between December and April when there is no risk of hurricanes and average temperatures range in the 70s and 80s (21°-30°C).

Climbing the ancient Mayan structures in the Yucatan and Quintana Roo is not allowed, in order to prevent injury and preserve the sites. There are 3 Mayan pyramids that tourists can climb: Coba, Izamal, and Uxmal.

Chichen Itza is not recommended for cruise ship passengers stopping in Cozumel. You can visit the ruins if your cruise stops in Progreso, though. Otherwise, we recommend visiting either Tulum or Coba instead.

The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the official currency of Mexico. However, US dollars are widely accepted in Cozumel.

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Cozumel. However, English is also widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

Cozumel is in the Central Time Zone (GMT-6).

Tipping is common in Cozumel, especially for service workers such as waiters, bartenders, and tour guides. A general rule of thumb is to tip 10-15% of the bill.

Yes, you can walk to a beach from the Cozumel port. The beaches of San Francisco and Playa Azul are both within walking distance.

The best way to get around Cozumel is by taxi, bus, or rental car. You can also rent a scooter or bicycle, but be aware that traffic can be chaotic and roads are often in poor condition.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to Mexico.

It is not mandatory to have travel insurance to enter Mexico, but it is highly recommended.

Yes, Cozumel is a safe place to visit. It’s located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, which is considered one of the safest parts of Mexico. There’s a heavy police presence on the island, and tourists rarely run into any trouble. Of course, it’s always important to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings. As long as you do that, you should have no trouble enjoying your time in Cozumel.

The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old.

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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2 thoughts on “19 top-rated cozumel shore excursions for your next cruise”.

Do they still have the horse carriage tours in Cozumel

I never saw any of those while I was doing my research.

Comments are closed.

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Rio Secreto: What To Do In Cozumel

I have done the Secret River excursion twice – and both times I paid for it on my own, so obviously these are my own opinions, right? Some links in this post are affiliate links that earn me a commission if you purchase through them.

When you visit Cozumel as part of a cruise or Playa del Carmen just because it’s a fantastic vacation destination, do  not  miss the Secret River excursion. This is one of those once in a lifetime totally cool experiences, and the folks who manage the Rio Secreto – the Spanish name – do a fantastic job.

If I go to Cozumel again, I’d do it again in a heartbeat. I’m still angling for a Playa del Carmen vacation that would give me the chance to do a longer tour, too. For a cruise, the Secret River excursion lasts 7 hours, but you spend “only” an hour and a half underground.

If you stay locally, tours can last much longer, and some include picnics and meals along the way while still underground!

Even if you’re on a cruise, the Secret River excursion offers five different routes, so you can explore different caverns on return visits. I’ve done Charming and the Palace so far. Both were amazing, and I would love to explore the entire system!

Book the Secret River excursion now!

If you want even more variety, some versions of the tour have additional upgrades that remove your time to explore Playa del Carmen where you can do the cave tour in conjunction with an ATV exploration of the jungle. On the quieter side, Rio Secreto has biking and other options to explore the jungle, as well.

Heading to Cozumel on a cruise? Check the bottom of this article for some of my recommendations for my other favorite tours in other locations, too.

Why I Love the Secret River Excursion

This is a truly unique experience. This underground cave provides 20% of the water for the Yucatan peninsula, yet it remained undiscovered until 2006. It’s as pristine and amazing today as it was then.

The story goes that the owners of the land were chasing an iguana that scurried into rocks. The pulled rocks away to find it, and one dropped. They heard a huge splash and excavated further. The caves they found today are only 10% mapped.

Underground? It’s awe inspiring. While the cave is generally no more than chest deep water and often shallower, the soaring stalactites and stalagmites, plus the really rare helictites. Never heard of them? Neither had I. They grow sideways from cave walls and ceilings rather than up or down.

You don’t feel crowded. From the pickup point, you split into groups that are a maximum of 12. Even if you sign up for a shore excursion with a lot of people, your individual guide leads a small group. You hear everything and see everything easily.

I feel like you get a great value for the length of your excursion and the inclusions. It’s a truly unique experience, and it includes transportation, the Secret River excursion underground, and a filling lunch. You fill your time with a variety of experiences, and for the cruise, you even have time to explore on the mainland before taking the ferry back to Cozumel.

This experience doesn’t exhaust you, either. While you do a good amount of walking and a little climbing with a tiny bit of swimming, it isn’t strenuous. That means you can bring kids with you to enjoy it. My parents declined to do this because they didn’t think they had the balance, but most people can successfully enjoy the Rio Secreto.

This excursion runs rain or shine. While you don’t want to think about rain on your vacation, it rained nearly the entire time I cruised last January, and some excursions had to cancel due. The Secret River excursion doesn’t have that issue.

On the flip side, Mexico can be hot. Nasty, beastly hot. In the jungle and underground, however, the temperature remains comfortable.

Convinced even before you read all the details? Book your day here .

What’s Included in the Secret River Excursion

Getting to rio secreto.

Assuming you come from Cozumel, your Secret River excursion starts with a ferry ride from from Cozumel to the mainland of Playa del Carmen. The ferry takes 45 minutes, and they offer food and drink for sale.

The first time, the ferry tendered straight from the cruise ship. We exited the boat and went straight across. The second time, we tendered to shore then got cruise tickets and boarded the ferry from the dock. That will vary based on where your ship docks in port and other factors, but either way, it’s a 45 minute boat ride.

Once in Playa del Carmen, you separate into groups of no more than 12 and board air conditioned mini buses. You take a 30-35 minute drive to get to Rio Secreto. While you get to the overall park in about 15 minutes, the drive back to the site is another 15+ minutes. In the end, the drive is longer than advertised but not by much, and it’s not a big deal.

Before You Go Underground

Nothing goes into the caves with you. You’ll hear me repeat a lot that this water supplies 20% of the Yucatan peninsula. It has to stay clean, so you have to store all cameras, watches, jewelry, bags, etc.

Each group gets at least one locker with a padlock to store items. The lockers are plenty big, and our items easily fit inside. You keep the key to the padlock on a spring chain you slide over your wrist for security.

As everyone stores their items, take a chance to use the restrooms. One note: toilet paper goes in trash can, not toilet, which I know is a hard habit to remember! Once you’re set, then head over to the shower area. Why?

The next step before you head underground is to take a shower to remove any oils, perfumes, etc. The water is  cold , so be ready for that. The shower is mandatory, so take a deep breath and know that it’ll be over quick!

Each person must wear a life vest, helmet, and headlamp, plus water shoes. They fit you with each item to ensure they’re comfortable.

You have the option to wear a wetsuit, as well. It’s a neoprene shortie that goes to your knees and elbows. With water at just over 70 degrees, consider wearing it. The suit should be tight to insulate, but you don’t want it uncomfortable.

You can also grab a walking stick if you choose. If you take one, find one with a strap that you can place on your wrist so you don’t have to hold onto it all the time. Then you’re ready to head to the caves!

The Underground Experience

The walk from the main base to the caves varies from 5-10 minutes, as there are five different mapped routes that last the hour and a half of the tour. Not all groups will go on the same track so you don’t wait for the group to move through a space before you get there.

Each cave has rock steps to get down, and take your time. You may want to walk sideways to avoid the chance of slipping.

Once everyone gets down, turn on your headlamps as your guide instructs and follow the directions for the rest of your tour. They’ll keep you safe and give you a heads up on what to expect before you get there. I love that nothing comes as a surprise.

The water initially feels cold, but you quickly get used to it. Water is cold, but you quickly get used to it. It helps that you’re in and out of the water. It ranges from splashing ankles to over your head throughout, though again most is not more than chest deep.

The guides stop often to share info in the various caverns.

For example, you’ll see a film on the water. This isn’t dirt or oil or anything wrong. In fact, it’s the opposite. The firm shows the health of the water and caverns.

It’s made up of calcium carbonite, the mineral that eventually forms the stalactites and stalgmites you see everywhere. I won’t spoil the cool demonstration you get in one cavern.

In many places, the stalactites and stalagmites have grown together to form columns. Elsewhere, you can see where they’re close to touching but haven’t made it quite yet. The formations continue to grow. In fact, the water you see dripping from them leaves behind mineral deposits that expand each formation.

You can touch stalagmites under water for balance of needed, but make sure you avoid anything above ground where they’re still growing. The oil from your hands prevents future growth.

Be careful, as the formations can be fragile. Did you know the stalactites are actually hollow straws?

In the caves, the base used to be a coral reef, and you can see that in some places where stalactites haven’t yet covered it. The popcorn looking effect on the growths is older while smoother formations are newer. Why? The water hasn’t splashed and melted as much.

The caverns have a variety of colors and shapes, including what our guide calls “bacon” formations. They actually look like bacon when you shine light behind them, which is such a cool effect I never imagined existed.

Other formations are sparkly like crystal, while yet others are yellow and look waxy. Keep an eye out to see as many different varieties as possible!

After the Cave Portion of the Secret River Excursion

Once you climb back up and return to the home base, the guides give each person a towel to dry off, and you return any gear you used. The towel is small and not super thick, but it’s adequate for what you need.

If you plan to go to the beach in Playa del Carmen after the Secret River excursion, bring a beach towel though!

After you towel off and gather your belongings, return the key to your guide. They then usher you over to a quick alcohol tasting.

You get a shot of shot of liquor to salute your fellow spelunkers that contains anise, honey, and morning glory. It’s pretty good, and if you like it, you can purchase a bottle for $25 in the gift shop.

You then get time to view all your photos. Because no cameras or phones are allowed in the caves for purity reasons, there’s a roving photographer to take candid pictures of individuals going through the caves and organized group photos.

If you like them, you can purchase photos $25 apiece or $99 for all of your group (about a dozen). They quickly burn them, so you take the digital images with you.

Then you head to an amazing lunch.

Secret River Excursion Food

Lunch is served buffet style with plenty of options. If you’re vegetarian, let them know ahead of time, and they can accommodate you.

The lunch includes a delicious lime broth soup in one area. Another line includes salad, papaya, and jicama. The main course follows in another line with beans, tamales, rice, coconut chicken, pork pibil, peppers, and accompaniments – achiote.

Try a little of it all if you can. While the tamales were a little dry, I can’t tell you what I prefer from the other options. This is far better quality than you expect from a lunch buffet in the middle of a jungle.

You also have fountains with hibiscus water, horchata, and regular water to drink. Try the hibiscus; it’s amazing!

The buffet doesn’t have dessert, but if you’re still hungry, you can get seconds.

As the Secret River Excursion Ends…

After lunch, you have time to explore the area a bit and relax or do a little shopping in the gift shop before your guide gathers you up one last time for the van ride back to Playa del Carmen.

There are little hidden areas, including some with hammocks where you can relax until you get the call to head out.

If you’re in Cozumel, the van drops you at the pickup point, and you have time to explore the area before the ferry leaves. The ferry isn’t just for this excursion and has a specific schedule, so you can’t head back early.

Ask your guide for recommendations on what not to miss in Playa del Carmen as some have really great tips of what stores to visit or what to try. Alternatively, head to the beach just off the ferry dock and relax on the sand until it’s time to take the ferry back.

Secret River Excursion Pro Tips

Note that if you come from Cozumel, you take a 45 minute ferry to Playa del Carmen where you board the minibuses. Depending on the weather, that ferry ride gets rough. Even if the weather isn’t bad, consider taking sea sick medicine or wearing accupressure bands to help.

Need more help with seasickness? I have a whole article with suggestions on how to avoid getting seasick .

Make sure that you use the restroom before you head down to the caves. You’re underground for 90 minutes, and remember that’s water that serves a huge portion of the Yucatan peninsula. You have plenty of time once you store your gear in lockers to use the facilities.

Wear your suit. There’s no reason to change into it once you arrive!

If you have water shoes , bring them. Rio Secreto has water shoes they provide, but I like using my own. Make sure any water shoes you bring have good treads to help ensure you don’t slip on the wet rocks in the caves. The operators will check your shoes and let you know if they won’t work.

Test your headlamp when you get your helmet. Generally, they work just fine, but every once in awhile, a lamp runs out of batteries. Don’t let that person be you!

Feel free to bring a change of clothes. While I just wore a cover up and let my swimsuit dry, the location offers not just the bathrooms but full on changing rooms just behind them. They’re perfect for families where parents need to assist kids and make sure nothing gets left behind!

If you want to change, make sure to bring a dry bag to put your wet clothes in. I love my 30 liter bag, as it has plenty of room for everything my family of four may need on a day trip like this.

Skip the sunscreen and bug spray. Again, this is drinking water you wade through and living caves.

Since you’re underground – and the jungle around the Rio Secreto is shaded because… jungle – you don’t need to worry about sun exposure. Just apply after you get out before you explore Playa del Carmen. And bugs? They’re oddly not an issue in the middle of the jungle.

Skip the walking stick if you can. It’s one more thing to carry, and you don’t need it most of the time. Just walk slowly and use safe handholds in the few places where you might need it.

Don’t forget to tip your guides. They work hard to make this a fantastic experience for you, and they deserve monetary thanks for you. They’re happy to take US dollars, but remember to carry cash in addition to a credit card for any souvenirs you may want to purchase.

Book this fantastic day before your forget

Who shouldn’t book the secret river excursion.

While most people can successfully navigate the caves, this isn’t for everyone.

You must be able to walk unassisted, as you have to climb down steps into the caves and back up again. The majority of the tour involves walking in the caves, in some places across uneven ground.

Though you have the option of bringing a walking stick into the caves with you, you need to feel comfortable walking on a variety of surfaces.

Toddlers aren’t permitted. Through Carnival, the minimum age for the excursion is 5, although this varies by tour operator, so check before you book.

The tour also has a weight limit of 250 pounds, as there are some tight spaces within the caverns.

Do you have a fear of water? You spend basically your entire time underground in some form of water or another. Generally it gets no more than chest deep so you can wade, but a few places are deeper and you swim or float across the cave. While you have a life vest on, if you aren’t comfortable in water, skip this.

If you suffer from claustrophobia, think twice but don’t rule it out. I’m claustrophobic. I have a problem when I sit in the middle or window seat in airplanes and the St. Louis Arch was a disaster.

I loved this experience, however. Though you’re in caves, they tend to be somewhat open, with only a few places and spaces that are tighter.

If your claustrophobia gets activated by other circumstances, like not knowing where you are in space, you may want to avoid this. From the time you descend into the caves until you return to the surface an hour and a half later, you don’t see the sun. You twist and turn through the maze of caves, which can be disorienting if you need to know where you are at all times.

Have you done the Secret River excursion? What did you think?

If you’re headed to Cozumel or Playa del Carmen, book it now !

More Cruise Excursion Recommendations

• Snorkeling in Grand Cayman
• The best excursion in Roatan
• Exploring the Great Barrier Reef in Belize
• Pirates, Birds and Monkeys in Roatan
• The most unique experience in Curacao
• Catamaran tour in St. Lucia
• Jolly Roger pirate ship in Barbados

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Do you go underwater at all? I can’t hold my breath long and am afraid of swimming underwater into or out of a cave.

You do not go underwater at all. Ever. The caves have water in them, but some is very shallow, some you are climbing over rocks, and only a few require you to truly swim across a space – but you also always have your lifejacket. There is not any place where you have to (or can, due to the lifejacket) go underwater.

For the shower part, are we just rinsing off, or do they give us something special to clean ourselves that’s environmentally safe? Also, what does the hibiscus water taste like? Great article btw.

You just rinse off. They did not provide any cleansing soaps or anything like that. And the hibiscus water is… tasty? It’s hard to describe. It’s lightly sweet without being sugary. It doesn’t taste like anything else I’ve ever had, so I’m doing a terrible job of describing it. Definitely try it if you go!

I do not feel I can do the cave tour with my wife. Can I go part way into the cave, as much as I am able? What can I do while she does the cave tour?

No, once you go into the cave, you are part of a guided tour and need to continue all the way through. There is no way to return to where you started and leave the group. If you skip the cave entirely, you may be able to hang out in the hammocks etc. I would reach out to them directly to ask, however, as this is not standard.

[…] Once in a lifetime cave exploration in Cozumel […]

[…] Explore the Secret River in Cozumel […]

[…] Cozumel, I’ve done several activities in the past. One of my favorites is the Amazing Secret River that I’ve done and paid for twice. SCUBA is a passion, and traveling without my family or […]

We had some friends do this and they LOVED it but it takes 8 hours off our boat. There are other things we want to do in Cozumel (chocolate tour!) and this would effectively take the whole day. Is there some way to book this where it is only a half day?

Unfortunately, this is a full day option if you do it. I totally get wanting to do the chocolate tour, but you’ll have to choose one or the other. I can tell you – having paid for this out of pocket twice – that the Rio Secreto is absolutely 10000% worth it. You may just have to visit Cozumel again so you can fit everything in!

How much of the tour do you actually have to swim. My husband does not really now how to swim and he is afraid he won’t be able to do it. I don’t swim great but I really want to do this excursion, I will be fine but I want him to do it with me.

There is honestly very little swimming. It’s primarily across a section so *maybe* 6-10 feet. That said, every person on the tour MUST wear a life vest, which will ensure you float. You just have to provide the motor power (kicking or paddling) to get through. If you’re a stronger swimmer, you could actually tow him, while he floats in his life vest instead. Not being a strong swimmer would not discourage me from doing this. The vast majority of the tour is walking in water.

How tight are the tight spaces? I am under 170 lbs, but I am short and round and scared of really tight spaces. Thanks

It’s more like you have to duck and occasionally move around to get through. I honestly think you should be fine. I get claustrophobic (doing the St Louis Arch was a disaster for me!), but I have absolutely no issues here. There were some larger folks on the two times I’ve done this, and no one ever had a problem.

Hello, thanks for such a detailed description of the river excursion. My older two children and husband would like to do the secret river & playa del carmen but my youngest is not so interested. He is 7 but wouldn’t even swim with the dolphins in Jamaica. He is more afraid of the water I think. But, I am wondering if we should just go with them and hang out there while they do it so we can all be together. Is there access to the ocean if we just hung out there? Would it be worth the price just to tag along? Thanks

This excursion happens in the jungle about 25 minutes from Playa del Carmen, so it isn’t near the beach at all. It’s an amazing experience, but honestly there isn’t a ton to do if you don’t go underground. There are some hammocks and a few other little things, but I don’t know that it’s worth the cost to just hang out. Would your 7 year old be willing to stay on the ship in Camp Ocean and do those activities while the rest of you go? I know I did that with my kids when they weren’t interested, and they were more than happy to do that – but every kid is different!

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Top carnival cruise excursions in cozumel.

Every time I’ve visited Cozumel, I’ve done something different and every time it has been truly a great experience. If you are going on a Carnival Cruise soon and are stopping at Cozumel, you are probably looking for exciting, but budget-friendly excursions for your cruise, especially if you are going as a big family. There are plenty of choices, but I wanted to highlight the top five budget and family-friendly excursions that you should choose from when visiting Cozumel on your next Carnival Cruise. 

Best Carnival Cruise Tips and Hacks

Before you start picking out an excursion, I invite you to read my favorite post on saving money and enjoying your Carnival cruise to the fullest! My tips include everything from cruise packing to getting free drinks on-board.

Best Value Carnival Cruise Excursions in Cozumel

Cozumel offers plenty to do on your own or by an excursion at any time of the year: snorkeling, shopping, beach getaways, chocolate factory tours, and many animal encounters, from dolphins and rays to turtles, iguanas and lizards! I have taken some of these excursions and I have read through many reviews, considered prices and value of excursions offered by Carnival. After my thorough research, here are the excursions I would recommend: 

Snorkeling, Tequila and Lunch for Pretty Cheap? Yes, Please!

Coral Garden Snorkel, Tequila, and Lunch is a great choice if you are looking for a combination of value and price. When booking an excursion I like to have several activities to fully experience the port. With this one, for just around $50, you can enjoy a beginner snorkeling activity in the reefs, followed by a fajitas lunch and a tequila tasting! This is what I call a good value. This excursion lasts about 3 hours, is a moderate activity level and open for all ages!

Try it All – Mayan Ruins, Snorkeling, Lunch and Tequila Tasting

For just a little extra, you can see what this beautiful island has to offer, including a visit to Mayan Ruins, Snorkeling, and Lunch for about $80 per person. You will visit the famous San Gervasio archaeological site, snorkel, and enjoy a lunch and a tequila tasting. This is a 5 hour excursion, but I can imagine, it is not enough for all of these activities, and while this is a great value, you may feel rushed throughout your day. It is also a moderate activity and everyone is welcome over the age of 1. 

Swimming with Sharks and Rays

I haven’t done this one , but swimming with a shark couldn’t not make this list! If you’re adventurous at heart, you will be happy to know that for about $60 you can have a 30-min encounter with rays and then swim with parrot fish, starfish, crabs, and even sharks in Cozumel. However, before you decide to go on this, keep in mind that some reviews say that this excursion doesn’t have another option if one of your kids decide they don’t want to encounter a shark. (I don’t know how I would feel!) This excursion lasts 3 hours and is offered to anyone over 4 years old. 

Explore Cozumel Culture, Attractions and Food

This excursion is a great combination of culture, sightseeing and history. First, you will take a trip to the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, then take a tour of the island, and enjoy some local treats, including traditional Mayan lunch, chocolates, and tequila. This 4.5 hour tour will keep you entertained for the whole day and it is a great option if you have kids on the cruise (about $75 per person.)

Interact with Dolphins and Enjoy Unlimited Food and Drinks

Every kid (and adult) would love a dolphin encounter program . You can interact with the dolphins, and famous dolphin kiss! Afterward, you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks; snorkel with tropical fish and try out kayaking and paddleboarding! With everything included, this is a great deal! At $90 per person, you will have an exciting adventure with many memories!

Packing for a Carnival Cruise

How can you pack for a cruise without packing your whole house in with you? What are you forgetting? Use my printable and editable cruise packing list for your next vacation!

Why go on a Carnival Cruise Excursion instead of a local one?

Often, people have a safety concern when visiting a new country. And many cruisers choose to take a cruise-recommended excursion because of the issue. However, the only danger in visiting Cozumel is that you will fall in love with it and keep coming back again and again. I’ve been to Cozumel three times and I’m going back this December on another cruise. 

The reason I would recommend to take a Carnival Cruise excursion in Cozumel is that they will make sure you will get enough time to get back on the ship before its departure. Also, you will have someone waiting to pick you up right near the port. I would say going with a Carnival excursion will make your experience a little more convenient. If you are thinking about going with an independent excursion, check out port info at cruisecritic.com, they have a lot of information about independent Cozumel excursions. 

Are you planning a cruise to Cozumel? Which excursion are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments!

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• Cruise Port - 1 Perfect Day
• Tour/Excursion Recommendations
• Trip Guides

Ultimate Guide to the Cozumel Cruise Port and Breakdown of Shore Excursion Options

If you’re booking any type of Western Caribbean cruise, there is a very good chance that it’s going to stop at the Cozumel cruise port. In fact, it’s such a popular destination that Cozumel has space to dock as many as 8 cruise ships each day. There are 3 separate piers for the boats to dock at. The northern most pier has 2 spaces and is located closest to the downtown area. There are also two piers that are located further south. These two piers are located in a port-area and can hold up to 6 different cruise ships. If you’re like us and tend to cruise on Carnival, then you will most likely be at the Southern-most pier which is right next to the Three Amigos restaurant.

There is absolutely no reason to worry about cruising to Cozumel. I believe it is perfect for a beginner’s cruise port. It’s tropical, it’s warm, it’s safe, and everyone speaks English so you won’t have any trouble getting around.

• 1 Map of Cozumel
• 2.1.1 Chichen Itza
• 2.1.2 Tulum
• 2.1.3 San Gervasio
• 2.2.1 Cenotes
• 2.3 Mexican Ecological Parks:
• 2.4.1 Catamaran, Snorkel & Beach Break 
• 2.5.1 Paradise Beach
• 2.5.2 The Money Bar
• 3.0.1 Restaurants
• 3.0.2 Shopping
• 3.0.3 Ride a Rickshaw

Map of Cozumel

Cozumel is a small island off the eastern coast of Mexico. To help plan, I’ve included two maps, one close-up of Cozumel and one with some of the shore excursions that you can do on the mainland of Mexico.

Shore Excursions and DIY Options for Cozumel:

I’ve been to Cozumel three times. Once I took a Carnival cruise ship excursion and two times I did different DIY Options. I’ll go over my experiences in each, but first a summary of what you can expect in terms of Shore Excursion Options:

The cruise lines offer about 50-60 shore excursion options. I would break them down into the following categories.

• Mexican Cultural/Historical Sites  (Chichen Itza, Tulum, San Gervasio)
• Mexico’s Natural Wonders (Cenotes, Underground Rivers)
• Mexican Ecological Parks (Xel-Ha, Xcaret, Xplor, Xenses)

Typical Cruise Water Activities & Beach Breaks

One of the main things that you should consider when looking at Cozumel shore excursions is time, Cozumel is a little island off the main land of Mexico. Almost every activity that is located on the main land requires you to take a ferry to Playa del Carmen. The ferry ride significantly cuts into the amount of time that you get to spend having fun. Yes, really. So make sure you read the fine print to know what you are signing up for.

Cozumel is also a great port to DIY. I’ve got two different, inexpensive options if you want to skip the shore excursion and go exploring by yourself!

Mexican Cultural/ Historical Sites:

Chichen itza.

The main cultural site for the Yucatan is Chichen Itza. If you’ve never been and you like ruins, I cannot recommend this site enough. It’s stunning! But I’ll be honest with you, is Cozumel the best way to see Chichen Itza? That depends! Chichen Itza is about 8 hours round-trip from Cozumel and only allows for about 45 minutes on site (which is not much at all since it’s a whole complex). So if Cozumel is the closest you will ever get to Chichen Itza and you’re cool with long bus rides, then go for it. But if you think you may find yourself staying on the Riviera Maya at some point in the future, or visiting one of the closer cruise ports (Progresso or Costa Maya), then I’d hold off on this one. We stayed at an all-inclusive in Puerto Aventuras and took a day-trip to Chichen Itza and had enough time to swim in a Cenote as well! You can read all about it here.

Note: If you’re feeling really fancy, some cruises offer an airplane excursion to visit Chichen Itza!

Tulum is another popular Mayan Ruin, which in my opinion is easier to see when staying on the Riviera Maya and not just visiting Cozumel for the day. That being said, Tulum is slightly closer to Cozumel than Chichen Itza and it’s located on a beach, so you have about 1.5 hours to walk around the complex and to enjoy the beautiful beach. Tulum is much closer to Costa Maya’s Cruise Port, so that may also be an option for you.

San Gervasio

Much less popular, these Mayan ruins are actually located on the island of Cozumel and only require about a half-day to visit. We’ve never had the opportunity to visit these lesser known ruins but would love to hear in the comments about your experience!

Mexico’s Natural Wonders:

In terms of natural wonders, only one phenomenon really comes to mind when I’m thinking about Mexico – Cenotes. Cenotes are giant sinkholes caused by weaknesses in the limestone underground that fill up with water. There are cenotes all throughout the Yucatan peninsula. Many of these are open to the public for swimming and there’s at least one that features a restaurant.

We were able to visit a cenote when we went on our excursion to Chichen Itza. The Ik Kil cenote is about 200 ft across and 130 feet deep with a stairway that winds all the way to the water swimming platform (85 ft.) The water is chilly which is unsurprising because there isn’t a lot of sunlight that gets into the bottom of the cave. It was a lot of fun visiting and the vines hanging down are really neat.

Unfortunately the cruise ship excursions from Cozumel don’t stop at the Ik Kil cenote because there isn’t enough time.If you want to visit a cenote your best bet is is to look at some of the underground river tours. For example, Carnival offers an “Amazing Secret River” tour which takes you to the Mexico mainland to the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve where you get to explore underground caves and swim in a cenote. If you’ve done one of these underground river tours, we would love to hear about it in the comments below!

Mexican Ecological Parks:

One unique feature in Mexico is a group of Ecological parks. Xel-Ha, Xcaret, Xplor, and Xenses are separate parks, so you would have to choose just one for your day. We have only visited Xel-Ha so far. Xel-Ha is essentially a natural water-park. It features a lazy-river which is a real river, a zip-line, cenotes to swim in, and several animal encounters. Each park costs roughly $100 admission, but many of the park’s activities require additional cash. We had a great day and even paid extra to do the Sea Trek which lets you walk on the ocean floor with helmets on to breathe.

One of the negative things that I have heard about the Ecological Parks excursions is just the time it takes to get to the park. All three are located on the mainland and the travel time getting from the cruise ship to the park significantly cuts into your time spent at the park. We thoroughly enjoyed our day at Xel-Ha (although we visited from an all-inclusive in Puerto Aventuras) and we cannot wait to visit the other parks.

Summary of the Different Parks:

Each of these parks is quite different and it’s hard to tell the differences upfront. Here’s my take on what you can expect from each park:

• Xel-Ha – Described as a waterpark. Basically a massive lazy river with water activities and ziplining all along the sides. Animals are primarily water animals like dolphins.
• Xcaret – More animals (big cats, birds, butterflies) and shows. Has underground rivers to swim and snorkel.
• Xplor – For Adventure lovers. 4×4’s, ziplines, underground rivers. Supposed to get the adrenaline going.
• Xenses -Half day park with activities that are designed to wake up your senses. Think dark caves, light and color shows, and water attractions.

Have you been to any of the ecological parks? Did you enjoy Xel-Ha like we did? What about the other parks? Tell us in the comments below!

Cozumel has all of the typical cruise-ship water activities that you see at any of the ports. You can snorkel, scuba, you can ride a catamaran, swim with dolphins, visit sea turtles, take a submarine ride, and pretty much anything else you can think of. The only excursion of this type that I’ve participated in is the Catamaran, Snorkel, and Beach Break which I describe below.

Pretty much all of these shore excursion options are also available at other ports in the Caribbean. So if you don’t do them in Cozumel, don’t worry, you have other opportunities. For example:

• Atlantis Submarine – Also in Barbados
• Snorkeling – Amazing in Honduras
• Scuba – Supposed to be Awesome in Belize
• Catamaran – Pretty much everywhere – we enjoyed the catamaran at St. Kitts !
• Swim with Dolphins – Also in Costa Maya , Jamaica , Bahamas , and probably others!

I did see that Cozumel has a really fun looking high speed boat. Has anyone gone on this tour? I’d love to hear about it!

Catamaran, Snorkel & Beach Break 

The first time I visited Cozumel we booked a catamaran and beach break excursion through the cruise line. It was my first trip so I really enjoyed the catamaran ride, snorkeling, and the beach. I believe this excursion compared to other catamaran excursions out there, it didn’t stand out as being good or bad. It’s been a few years since I did this tour but I remember seeing lots of fish and also the guide pointing out things like stingrays. The food at the beach was also comparable to other places in the Caribbean. It was a simple, filling lunch, but nothing spectacular. And on the beach there was a guy carrying an iguana around who would let you take pictures with it for money. On the way back the rum punch was flowing and my friends had a great time drinking punch and dancing. I recommend this tour for beginning cruisers – it was fun.

What about you? Did you go on any shore excursions in Cozumel that you thought were just amazing? Let us know in the comments so we can plan our next trip!

DIY Cozumel Shore Excursion Options:

If you’re not feeling excited about any of the cruise line shore excursion options, or you’re just looking for a way to save some money, I have two options for DIY shore excursions in Cozumel. Both are easy, inexpensive, and offer different experiences.

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach is a beautiful beach and swimming pool that welcomes cruise ship travelers. It is the place to go if your ideal day involves palm trees, soft sand, and a beach lounger.

Getting There: To get there, all you have to do is take a taxi from the port. If your cruise ship parks at the southernmost pier like ours did, the taxi stand is easily found. Just walk past the shops area (away from the shore) and you’ll see the taxis lined up. A taxi of 4 people only costs $15 to get to Paradise Beach (as of January 2019). Within 15 minutes of hailing your taxi, you will find yourself escorted to a beach chair and then free to enjoy yourself for as long as you want.

Costs: The entrance fee to Paradise Beach is $3 per person. If you want to participate in the inflatables (they have probably 20 different ones), then the cost is $18 per person. You also agree to spend at least $10 per person on food when visiting Paradise Beach. Drinks are between $10-15 each and the food is in the same range, so it’s pretty easy to meet the $10 minimum and still feel like you had a relatively inexpensive day.

We thought Paradise Beach was absolutely beautiful and the food was great too! Sorry that I didn’t get a picture of the pool area, just know that it’s lovely!

Also, I thought this blog was a fantastic reference when planning our trip to Paradise Beach and just wanted to give credit!

The Money Bar

If you are interested in doing something on your own and are more into snorkeling, then the Money Bar is another great choice. The Money Bar is a restaurant and bar located right on the beach where you can eat a nice lunch, relax, and spend time swimming and snorkeling.

Getting There: To get to the Money Bar all you need to do is go all the way through the cruise terminal and catch a taxi outside (same as for Paradise Beach).

Costs: No entry fee, your only expense is the taxi and food or drinks!

Bring: Your own snorkel gear. I don’t remember there being a place to rent gear. And water socks!

There really isn’t much beach at the Money Bar, but if you want to snorkel the water is very shallow but they have a lot of concrete structures in the water that the urchins and small fish like to hide around. I highly recommend wearing water socks to protect your feet because it is very, very rocky.

I don’t remember much about the food at Money Bar, but I know friends who absolutely loved the Ceviche and look forwarding to going back.

Cozumel Port Area – Things to Know/Do

Restaurants.

Three Amigos –  The very first restaurant at the end of the pier is the Three Amigos and I highly recommend stopping there if you have some extra time in the afternoon. They have a full drink menu and offer lots of Mexican dishes which make a yummy afternoon snack. They also have a few picture spots onsite.

Shopkeepers are aggressive in many Caribbean islands, but I think more so in Cozumel than anywhere else. Don’t be surprised if you are constantly yelled at and asked to visit their shops. If you aren’t interested, a polite “No, Thank you” works just fine.

Ride a Rickshaw

Okay, the cruise ship pier isn’t very long, but sometimes you are just too exhausted from a week of cruising. Or sometimes your boyfriend sprains his ankle the day before you leave for your cruise. Either way, the rickshaw is a fun, inexpensive way to get a lift down the pier. We had fun crossing it off our to-do list!

My Time Spent on the Island:

• 1 day cruise port in February 2013, on the Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas
• 1 day cruise port in January 2015, on the Carnival Magic
• 1 day cruise port in January 2019, on the Carnival Vista

Hope you find our travel guide helpful!

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The Top 11 Shore Excursions From Cozumel

Cozumel is by far one of the most popular destinations in cruising. Not only does it offer two large piers that can accommodate multiple cruise ships each day, but passengers also seem to love the port, according to our recent survey results .

And what’s not to love about a tropical island set right in the middle of turquoise-blue water? Plus, whether you want to eat great food, relax on the beach, or experience adventure sports like diving, fishing, or off-roading, Cozumel has you covered.

In fact, there are so many thing you can do on the island that it can be downright overwhelming. It’s not unusual to have 50-60 options in the shore excursions offered by your cruise line. That said, there are definitely some tours that are better than others.

To help narrow down the list, we’ve rounded up what we think are some of the most interesting excursions you can take in Cozumel. These represents just a fraction of the things you can do during your trip, but definitely highlight some great options.

We’ve also included links to book your trip with Viator, part of the well-known TripAdvisor.com family. This way, no matter which cruise line you sail you can book through Viator and go on the excursion, even if your cruise line doesn’t offer it. (Note: You can also check your specific cruise line to see what excursions they offer in Cozumel.

Atlantis Submarine Expedition

Great for those people who want to see the beauty of Cozumel’s water and aquatic life without having to get wet. This submarine gives you an underwater view (up to 100 feet deep) of the island’s protected wildlife park Chankanaab. The excursion takes about two hours, including a 40-minute sub ride. One reviewer raved, “Wow…..all we can say was this was definitely worth the money to take this tour. If you are not a diver, taking this submarine down to the reef was just an amazing way to see the ocean life down below.”

$105 per person | Click here for more information

Dive & Drive Cozumel Adventure

Always wanted to dive but you aren’t certified? Here’s your chance. This unique tour is great for first-time divers as it includes initial dive training, followed by a shallow water dive alongside a pro dive instructor. But this tour is way more than just diving. It also includes an island tour in your own four-seater VW Beetle convertible. There is no more unique way to explore the island on a tour than driving one of these classics. Tour takes about five hours, so it fits in perfectly with the cruise schedule, allowing you some time afterward to shop or relax on the beach.

$109 per person | Click here for more information

Cozumel Food Tour

If you are into food, then take advantage of Cozumel’s great restaurant offerings. This three-hour tour will take you to five different restaurants on the island. We like that they also hit home-cooked food in a concina economica, a traditional family-run restaurant. And with only only eight people allowed on a tour, you aren’t going to be shuffling along with some massive group. You’ll get a chance to really experience the best of what the island has to offer.

$80 per person | Click here for more information

ATV Jungle and Snorkel Combo

When you see Cozumel, you may not realize that much of the island is still covered in mysterious jungle. This tour will give you the best way to explore that jungle — you own four-wheel ATV. During your jungle ride you will be taken to Mayan ruins on the island, followed by a swim in a natural cenote. Finally, you’ll finish the day at the Dzul Ha Beach Club where you can hang out on the beach, swim, snorkel, and eat some lunch before heading back to town after your four-hour tour.

Cozumel Snorkeling Tour

Snorkeling is a major reason to visit Cozumel and if you want to hit the best spots in one day, then this tour is for you. Over the span of about four hours you will hit for different reefs around the island, including the Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo reefs. And because the reefs are active with wildlife, expect to see colorful fish, rays, and even turtles. After your tour, you’ll have access to a beach club to relax before you head back to the ship.

$55 per person | Click here for more information

Personal Sub Dive Tour

Imagine flying around underwater in your own personal submarine. This isn’t science fiction. These personal submarines glide along under the waves, giving you the experience of a free dive while having plenty of air and freedom of movement. While the tour only last about an hour, you’ll be talking about it for years.

Apart from Chichen Itza, no Mayan ruins are more famous than Tulum’s cliffside city. This six-hour tour will take you from Cozumel to the mainland, then head south to the ruins. Once there, you’ll have a fully guided tour with ample time to explore this “lost” city and take plenty of photos. Tour includes lunch and the ferry back and forth from Cozumel and Playa del Carmen. For $75 per person, we consider this one of the best values for excursions.

$75 per person | Click here for more information

Extreme Off-Road Adventure

There’s taking a trip down a well-worn path… and then there is blazing down that path in an all-terrain buggy like you will on this excursion. Drive your own Xrail car, making your way through the jungle. Expect to get muddy! This tour takes you to Jade Caverns where you can explore some of the local geological scenery, as well as take a dip in the (fresh) water. As one tourist put it, “We had a fun ride, got absolutely covered in mud, held alligators, checked out an old Mayan cave, swam in a freshwater cavern, and swam in a bat cave.” Count us in.

Amazing Race Tour

Are you a fan of the Amazing Race television show, where contestants have to explore a foreign place, solve puzzles, and embrace the local culture in challenges? Cozumel has it’s own version, where you and your team will not only compete, but also get a chance to see some of the island’s best sights. The race takes about 4.5 hours and gives a prize to the winner.

$79 per person | Click here for more information

Self-Drive Buggy Tour

Want to drive, but don’t want to go off-road? Check out this self-driving buggy tour. Drive your own personal buggy around the island, check out Mayan ruins, go snorkeling, and swim in a resort pool — all on a single tour. This five-hour tour is the perfect way to spend your day in port, allowing you to pack a lot of fun into a short window of time. Just keep in mind that your buggy is a manual, so be prepared to shift some gears!

$85 per person | Click here for more information

Jose Cuervo Tequila & Chocolate Tasting

What trip to Mexico is complete without a little tequila? Enjoy this tequila tasting, learn how to make the perfect margarita, sample area chocolate and even make your own chocolate bar. This is a great option who want to enjoy the culture of the Yucatan without heading into the water or going on adventure excursions.

Note: The links above are affiliate links to Viator. If you decide to book your excursion though one of these links, we receive a small commission.

Have a favorite excursion you’ve taken in Cozumel? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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I want all inclusive beach resort with pool. Nice chairs & umbrella. No snorkeling. Just swim, drink, relax & eat. Please suggest safe excursions.

Check out a place called Mr. Sanchos. It’s visited by a lot of cruise passengers.

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Carnival Excursion Recommendations in Cozumel and Progresso

By agp_mzk , June 30, 2019 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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So, first the disclaimers: Yes, I understand that it is perfectly safe and often easier to "do it yourself" at most cruise stops. However, I'll be traveling alone on my upcoming cruise and am more comfortable with cruise line excursions under the circumstances. Yes, I've checked out the Ports of Call forums, but those aren't nearly as active as this one, and therefore a lot of the information there is outdated. I've been looking through the excursion offerings and am suffering from a bit of decision paralysis.  Now, for the fun part. 😄 Have you taken any particular Carnival excursions in either of these ports that you would recommend? Or that you'd strongly NOT recommend? Why or why not?  I enjoy quiet, beautiful beaches (have done Nachi in Cozumel twice on previous cruises), snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, culture, and exploring local cuisine. I do NOT handle long bus rides well (severe motion sickness; most boats don't bother me, for whatever reason), so ruins are out. I prefer small excursion groups when possible. Love kids but would prefer adult company on this trip. My cruise will be in December, if that factors into your recommendation.  Let's hear your stories, please. And photos, if you have them and feel like sharing!

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I was surprised at how much I liked the Atlantis submarine at Cozumel.  I also travel solo and don't do non Carnival excursions.   

At Progresso the beach is right by the pier which is like a mile long. You just take a free shuttle and you're there. No excursion necessary Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

9 hours ago, agp_mzk said: I enjoy quiet, beautiful beaches (have done Nachi in Cozumel twice on previous cruises), snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, culture, and exploring local cuisine. I do NOT handle long bus rides well (severe motion sickness; most boats don't bother me, for whatever reason), so ruins are out. I prefer small excursion groups when possible. Love kids but would prefer adult company on this trip. My cruise will be in December, if that factors into your recommendation. 

Which ship and sailing?

How long is too long? I did the Scenic Photo Tour and Foodie Experience in Progreso on 12/28/16.  There is a coach bus ride from the ship to Merida and within Merida.  It was a roughly 45 minute ride to the first stop. You get off the bus and walk around in several places.  Lunch at a restaurant was included, and we got samples at a bakery(cream puff) and drink shop(horchata or a green drink). There was a lady just inside the restaurant making corn tortillas.  The tortillas were really good.  I don't remember too many, if any, kids on this excursion. 

What boats are a problem for you?  I did the All Inclusive Passion Island by Twister in Cozumel on 2/11/17.  You get on the Twister boat at Puerta Maya.  The  20(?) person boat does spins in the water on the way there and back. We were there for at least 3 and a half hours.  Lunch and some drinks were included.  There were inflatables(trampoline, climbing wall, and something else) and hammocks in the water.  They hammocks weren't right next to the inflatables.  There were kids, but they were mainly hanging out on the trampoline. There were loungers on the beach.  I don't remember if there were any umbrellas.  There were a few tables and wooden hanging beds in the shade.  The buffet area was covered. There were two groups that came by Twister and two or three groups that came by catamaran.  The Twister groups left Puerta Maya later than the catamaran groups and had the island to themselves for about an hour after the catamaran groups left.  Scheduling could move that time to themselves to the beginning.

If you don't mind animals in captivity then Chankanaab is a great option https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heyDxl2F7X4

Alternatively Pasion Island has beaches and plastic things they call kayaks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmErsCpESk4

bertram15146

My DH and I were just in Cozumel back in the beginning of May and did the Mayan Ball Game, Mexican Show & Lunch.  We both really enjoyed it, and if you are into culture you might enjoy it as well!  It was a low key excursion, but that was what we were looking for in addition to something that didn't include being in the water and my husband does not snorkel, etc.

https://www.carnival.com/shore-excursions/cozumel/mayan-ball-game-mexican-show-and-lunch-304257

 I know this is not a Carnival excursion, just wanted to give an additional option.  We go to Paradise beach which is a short, inexpensive taxi ride.  Always enjoy our time there.  Hope you have fun whatever you decide to do.

Thanks, everyone! Some really neat suggestions here. The photo/foodie tour of Merida definitely sounds like something I would enjoy; I'll be sure to check that out! I'm sailing on the Carnival Fantasy from Mobile on December 14th. As far as how long is too long on a bus, anything more than an hour would probably be pushing it; shorter if the road is very windy or hilly. The Twister boat ride sounds like a no-go; I can't even watch 3-D movies without becoming miserably ill...

lab_love123

Maybe Dzibilchaltun ruins in Progreso. That's about a 30-45 minute bus ride. The other "nearby" ruins, like Uxmal, are probably outside your comfort zone for bus-sickness because they're further away. In Cozumel, I haven't gone yet but on my upcoming solo cruise I booked Carnival's "Beach Escape" excursion. It's like $29.99, includes your transportation to/from the beach club, which was the big seller for me. There appears to be a lot of other activities you can do there as well, and other excursions like snorkeling, zip lining, etc. that use the same beach club.  

As a side note: I had thought about going to Paradise Beach in Cozumel on my own because it only costs $3 to get in, plus they ask you to spend about $10 on food and drink, so $13 isn't a bad price. HOWEVER, it's a ~$15 taxi ride each way. I could probably find other people to share a taxi with, but I did not want to depend on that. So for budgeting purposes, I assume that I have to pay all costs by myself. So after $25-30 for transportation, plus the $13 minimum I would spend there, it really just became cheaper to do Carnival's excursion. And less stress for me not dealing with all the what-ifs.  

In Progresso, the Uxmal ruins your and trying price match with aautoprogesso.

Organized Chaos

On 6/30/2019 at 12:47 PM, Elaine5715 said: I was surprised at how much I liked the Atlantis submarine at Cozumel.  I also travel solo and don't do non Carnival excursions.   

This looks awesome. We're doing something similar in Aruba next March, but it's a semi-submersible, not a sub. You go down into the hull of the boat to look out the windows. I'd like a full-on submarine much better. We're considering a shorter cruise later this fall just so we don't have to wait as long till next year's, and we've been looking at Progresso/Cozumel. If we end up going, I think we'll seriously consider this.

The San Gervasio ruins are in Cozumel.  My mom and I did this tour on 12/29/16.  It was supposed to be 3 hours and 15 minutes(9:00am-12:15pm).  We got back about an hour later than the scheduled return time.  We didn't miss the ship, but the late return messed up our other plans.  I don't remember much about what the guide was saying on the way to the ruins because I kept falling asleep.  It wasn't because of what he was saying.  A comfortable seat in a moving vehicle with a cold AC/fan blowing on my face will put me to sleep almost every time.  The ruins were the first stop.  I think the bus ride was about 35 minutes to the ruins.  I liked the ruins.  You could climb on some of them.  None of them were particularly tall.

I saw more than the rest of the group because I took off on my own.  I couldn't stand listening to the tour guide that we got go on and on and on about the differences in skin color in his family.  Three other groups stopped and then passed us while he was still talking.  My feet were killing me.  I had to get moving.  I saw all but one set of ruins.  I was realizing how long I had been away.  My mom didn't see much because she went back to the bus.  Some of the first ruins are roped off.  She was standing next to the rope and shifted her weight from one foot to the other.  The guide rudely said that you can't go past the rope.  My mother wasn't trying to do that.  She clearly wasn't even touching the rope.  Hopefully you would get a better guide.

After the ruins, we drove around the eastern side of the island.  We stopped at a rocky beach for 15(?) minutes or so.  There was enough time to get a drink at the bar if you wanted to.  There were some hammocks before the rock.  I walked out onto the rock to watch the waves break against the rock.  I had to watch where I stepped because there were alot of holes in it. 

After the beach stop we drove through the city(mainly downtown) on our way back to Puerta Maya.

The photo/foodie tour in Progreso got back an hour late too.  It was supposed to be 9:30am - 2:00pm.  We got back to the port at 3:00pm.  We had to be back onboard at 3:30pm.  I didn't get a chance to look in the shops.  I know most of the shops were selling the same stuff, but I wanted to look anyway.  I didn't want to be in the long line at 3:30pm, so I was only able to take a glance at each shop on my way to the ship.

2 hours ago, agp_mzk said: The Twister boat ride sounds like a no-go; I can't even watch 3-D movies without becoming miserably ill...

I think the catamaran would be a smoother ride since it is slower and the only way little kids can get there.  The minimum age for Twister is 7 years old.  The catamaran version is also $20 cheaper than the Twister version.

We did the Intimate Mayan tour while on the Vista, San Garvasio Ruins, and Cala Mirador.  Only 7 people total on our tour.  We did a review if you would like to take a  look.

Planning on doing that one in August.

Lots of great input, everyone. Thanks!

Thanks to @Tiger0613 , I've looked into the details of the photo/foodie tour of Progresso, and I think we have a winner! I've never visited mainland Mexico; I think this will be a perfect tour for me.  Still looking into options for Cozumel. I'm torn between a catamaran/snorkel option or maybe a beach day. Decisions, decisions...Honestly, I think planning a cruise is almost as much fun as going on one!

I just did the dolphin swim and lunch in Cozumel . It was by far one of the best excursions I’ve ever done. It’s only like 5 minutes from port, you get plenty of time with the dolphins, a free buffet lunch with unlimited drinks, free lockers for your stuff, and access to the rest of the park after the dolphin swim. The rest of the park had replica Mayan ruins you can explore, a beach with hammocks, a swimming pool, and a sea lion show, as well as more I didn’t get to. I’d do it again.

Has anyone done the "VIP La Casa" adults only beach day through Carnival? It's pricey but sounds like it might be worth the splurge for a quiet, relaxing day. 

10 minutes ago, agp_mzk said: Has anyone done the "VIP La Casa" adults only beach day through Carnival? It's pricey but sounds like it might be worth the splurge for a quiet, relaxing day. 

My sister, brother and I did this last year.  WE LOVED IT.  Seriously amazing day.  However, one caveat:  from what i understand the tour rents a variety of vacation houses to use for this purpose.  You may not end up at the same house we had.  Also, we were warned when we went that the beach was by a mangrove area and would therefore be murky.  We did not find it to be murky whatsoever, just not as Caribbean blue as some might have expected.  The food and service was amazing, I paid an extra $40 for a massage that was ten times better than the spa on the ship would have been, there was a pool option if we didn't like the water (we stayed by the beach).  Agreed we would do this again next time we were in Cozumel without kids.

LoungingMcCoy

https://www.carnival.com/shore-excursions/cozumel/mariachi-tacos-tequila-and-shopping-304221

We took this one in January and it was a lot of fun if you're up for morning margaritas and tequila.  The shuttle ride is short, maybe 10 or 15 minutes.  The dancers and mariachi band were really good and seemed to enjoy themselves a great deal.  The tacos were very good.  The tequila tasting was very fun and informative.  Did I mention margaritas?  The gift shop was ok.  Mostly touristy stuff.  We got some souvenirs for our friends and family there and I thought the prices were good.   

We loved the Elite Champagne Catamaran Cruise and Snorkel. The snorkeling and equipment was fantastic. The catamaran is very nice. They serve lunch and unlimited quality drinks. The crew is outstanding. It is a bit pricey but I was able to price match it to a similar Viator tour.

https://www.carnival.com/shore-excursions/cozumel/elite-champagne-catamaran-sail-and-snorkel-304286

3 hours ago, TravelE said: We loved the Elite Champagne Catamaran Cruise and Snorkel. The snorkeling and equipment was fantastic. The catamaran is very nice. They serve lunch and unlimited quality drinks. The crew is outstanding. It is a bit pricey but I was able to price match it to a similar Viator tour. https://www.carnival.com/shore-excursions/cozumel/elite-champagne-catamaran-sail-and-snorkel-304286

I'm torn between this and the La Casa beach day. They're at about the same price point. Good thing I have plenty of time to make up my mind! Lots of reviews of both on the Carnival site, but not many here. I'll have to do some more digging through trip reports and the Ports of Call board. 

We will be on the same cruise. This isnt a carnival excursion but I think it sounds neat for progresso and we will be there!  We thought about the ruins but I'm not riding a bus for 2.5 hours. 

https://www.shoreexcursioneer.com/progreso/ghost-town-misnebalam-atv.html#Description

Depending on what you like to do Mr Sanchos in Cozumel is a short can ride from the port and only 55.00 all inclusive has great pool and beach. It would be a beach/pool day kind of place. We go every time we are in Cozumel.

On 7/1/2019 at 3:12 PM, Tiger0613 said: I think the catamaran would be a smoother ride since it is slower and the only way little kids can get there.  The minimum age for Twister is 7 years old.  The catamaran version is also $20 cheaper than the Twister version.

The last 3 times I went to Passion Isle the sargasso seaweed was piled high along the shore and blanketted the water as well.  Is this still the case?  I know that the seaweed comes and goes, depending on tides, winds and currents, but 3 times over 2 years is too much.  I've gone to Passion 10 even 5 years ago and it was free of seaweed, but the last 2 yrs were horrible when I went.

I've gone to Nachi a few times as well recently and they don't seem to have this problem, just some stray seaweed, not mountains of it.

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Carnival, Royal Caribbean and more change cruise itineraries amid Hurricane Ernesto

Cruise lines are changing itineraries in an effort to avoid Hurricane Ernesto . The storm brought heavy rain and wind to Puerto Rico Wednesday, leaving close to half the island without power and prompting flash flood warnings. The Virgin Islands also felt the impacts.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Pride ship, which left from Baltimore for a Bermuda cruise on Sunday, moved its visit to the island up by one day, arriving on Tuesday and leaving on Thursday, the cruise line said.

Carnival Magic skipped a planned stop in San Juan on Wednesday and will make an additional stop in Nassau in the Bahamas on Friday. The ship left Miami on Sunday for an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

“As the safety of our guests and crew is our priority, we will continue to watch the storm and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, U.S. Coast Guard and the local port authorities to provide timely updates as more information becomes available,” the cruise line said in a news release .

Norwegian Cruise Line rerouted Eastern Caribbean cruises on its Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Breakaway ships to the Western Caribbean, according to a spokesperson. The ships departed from Miami on Monday and Sunday, respectively.

Their new itineraries include Roatan in Honduras, Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico and Harvest Caye in Belize (Sky will also stop in Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios in Jamaica).

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: Here's what to do next

Norwegian Joy , which left for a Bermuda cruise from New York on Sunday, arrived at the island on Tuesday, one day ahead of schedule. While the ship will spend two nights at the Royal Naval Dockyard as planned, it will depart Thursday, a day earlier than planned.

“The safety and security of our guests, crew and the communities we visit is a top priority,” a spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

Royal Caribbean International’s Rhapsody of the Seas will make planned stops on its Southern Caribbean cruise in a different order, but no ports were canceled, according to a spokesperson for the line’s parent company, Royal Caribbean Group . The ship departed from San Juan on Sunday.

Icon of the Seas , which departed from Miami on Saturday, is sailing a Western Caribbean itinerary rather than an Eastern Caribbean cruise as planned. Stops include Cozumel, Costa Maya and Roatan. 

Symphony of the Seas, which left from Bayonne, New Jersey , for an Eastern Caribbean cruise on Friday, will also visit Nassau rather than Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Best Cozumel Excursions with Cozumel Cruise Excursions!

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Private Cozumel jeep tour

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Private Jeep & Snorkel Tour All-Inclusive Island Tour

Cozumel Snorkel & El Cielo Tour

Our Cozumel Snorkel & Cielo Party tour in Cozumel Mexico is a small group snorkel tour that takes you to the best snorkel spots & to El Cielo Cozumel

Snorkel & El Cielo Cozumel Transportation Included

Private Cozumel dune buggy tour

Experience Cozumel on your own dune buggy in Cozumel, and discover Cozumel like others won't. You'll get your own private guide and buggy to explore the island of Cozumel

Private Dune Buggy Tour All-Inclusive Island Tour

Duration: 5-6 hrs. Price: $60 LEARN MORE

Private Jeep & ATV Tour

Our Cozumel Private Jeep & ATV tour takes you on an adventure into the jungle on an ATV to Jade Caverns cenote! Discover Punta Sur Park, El Cedral & More

Private Jeep & ATV Tour ATV, Jade Caverns, Punta Sur

All-Inclusive: 5-6hrs. | $100 LEARN MORE

Private Jeep & Polaris RZR Tour

Exlusive Private Jeep & RZR tour into the jungle and discover Mayan Ruins at San Gervasion Mayan ruins

Private Jeep & Polaris RZR

Jeep, Polaris RZR & San Gervasio Mayan Ruins: 5hrs. Price: $106 LEARN MORE

Discover Scuba Cozumel

Learn how to dive in Cozumel with our #1 discover scuba dive course in Cozumel Mexico. Discover Scuba Course is easy, fun, & exciting.

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Cozumel ATV Snorkel Tour

Amazing Cozumel ATV and Snorkel Tour Combo for a Cozumel ATV Jungle Adventure and mesmerizing snorkel tour in Cozumel Mexico.

Cozumel ATV Snorkel Tour Ruins, Lunch, Jungle, Hidden Beaches

Book Direct & Save: 5 hrs. | $70 LEARN MORE

Private Boat Tours

Our Private Snorkel Excursions provide your group with your own Private boat and crew. Lowest Price for Private Boat Charters in Cozumel to Snorkel and visit El Cielo

Private Boat Charters: Up to 14 Guests

Duration: 4-5 hrs. Price: $850 Luxury Charters for Less! LEARN MORE

Custom Cozumel Jeep Tour

Customize your own Cozumel Jeep Tour. Discover the East side or Cozumel, Explore Punta Sur Park & then Snorkel in Cozumel from a Cozumel Beach & Much More!

Private Cozumel Jeep Tour See & Do What You Want!

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Rated #1 Cozumel Tours with Cozumel Cruise Excursions

A Video on the best of Cozumel, and many guests have reviewed our Cozumel tours as providing the best experience on their vacation in Cozumel.

Isla Cozumel Mexico Video Of what to do in Cozumel and best things to do in Cozumel on a Cozumel cruise ship. Discover the best Cozumel Shore Excursions in Cozumel for the the lowest prices guaranteed

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Top 12 Things to Do in Cozumel

By Carnival Cruise Line

What to Do in Cozumel

• Snorkel and Scuba
• Day at the Beach
• Sea Creatures
• Nature Reserves
• Island Tour
• Discover Mexico
• Amazing Race
• Cooking Lessons
• Explore Mayan Ruins
• Adventure Parks

In the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula lies the island of Cozumel . As a popular port of call for cruise ships , this island offers vacation guests so much to see and do that it may be hard to choose. To help you out, here are 12 suggestions for planning your visit to Cozumel.

In and On the Water

The second-largest reef system in the world exists in the clear blue waters southwest of Cozumel, making the island a top dive destination. In-water activities are available for all levels of swimmers. Not a swimmer? Don’t worry. You can still get in on the action!

1. Snorkel and Scuba

Certified scuba divers can explore the underwater world at Arrecifes de Cozumel National Marine Park with an experienced dive master, while beginning divers can try the sport with a PADI-certified dive instructor.

You don’t have to scuba to enjoy the underwater view. Other options include SNUBA (snorkeling with a surface-floating air tank), helmet diving — ideal for non-swimmers because you can walk on the ocean floor — and, of course, lots and lots of snorkeling.

2. Day at the Beach

Relax the day away on one of Cozumel’s famous sandy beaches. Choose an excursion that combines beach time with water activities such as snorkeling and paddleboarding, or just sit back and soak up the sun with your family.

Up Close With Nature

Nothing’s quite as spectacular as spending time up close and personal with Cozumel’s natural environment.

3. Sea Creatures

Cozumel has two dolphinariums where you can experience the thrill of being in the water with these beautiful creatures . Or maybe you’d like the chance to snorkel among the biggest fish in the world, the whale shark , or around graceful sea turtles in their natural habitat. You even have an opportunity to give back to nature by participating in a “Save the Sea Turtle” program.

You don’t have to get wet to view the beautiful sea creatures. Instead, you can take a trip through the Chankanaab reef on the Atlantis submarine and watch the underwater world swim by through the portals.

4. Nature Reserves

Explore the unusual natural features of Cozumel and the Yucatan peninsula. These include jungles, underground rivers and cenotes — deep, water-filled sinkholes formed by water percolating through the soft limestone soil over thousands of years. Choose from excursions that include the natural aquarium of Yal-Ku, an ancient Mayan cenote sanctuary, the Rio Secreto natural reserve, the Xel-Ha lagoon and Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Park .

Get to Know Cozumel

A cruise to Cozumel lets you choose between activities local to the island or a short ferry trip away on the Yucatan peninsula. Consider these fun things to do right on Cozumel.

5. Island Tour

See the island’s highlights on a comprehensive guided tour that combines a visit to the Mayan ruins with island sightseeing. If you’ve never been to Cozumel, this is a great way to get acquainted.

6. Discover Mexico

Visit Discover Mexico , an interactive learning park near the island’s main population center of San Miguel. Learn about Mexico’s history through dioramas and reproductions, view contemporary folk art by Mexico’s best artisans, and wander the gardens filled with local flora.

7. Amazing Race

For something completely different, take part in the Amazing Cozumel Race . Just like the TV show, you follow clues and discover secrets to solve a mystery, all while trying to beat everyone else to the finish line — or not. It’s perfectly fine to take your time and enjoy your surroundings while solving the mystery. This race takes place on foot through the streets of San Miguel and along the shore, and the locals are totally in on the fun and happy to point you in the right direction.

Experience Local Culture

Carnival offers a wide variety of activities that explore Mexican culture, both ancient and modern.

Sit back and enjoy a Mexican folkloric show in San Miguel, or travel to Kun Che, a Mayan sanctuary, to learn about this ancient culture through food, dance and even Pok Ta Pok, a Mayan ball game.

9. Cooking Lessons

Learn how fabulous Mexican food is made by taking part in an excursion that combines salsa making and salsa dancing . This one’s fun for everyone, even the kids.

10. Explore Mayan Ruins

Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula was home to the great Mayan empire, and it has many well-preserved archaeological sites to explore. Cozumel has a number of ruins, but the major Mayan archaeological sites exist on the mainland. The two most famous are Tulum and Chichen-Itza , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Off the Beaten Path

This part of Mexico offers some pretty spectacular terrain to explore. Try one of these ideas for something a little different.

11. You Drive

If you’d like the freedom to drive yourself and your friends on an adventure, saddle up for a variety of alternative transportation options. Ride through the Mexican countryside or on jungle trails on an ATV or four-passenger off-road vehicle . Or actually saddle up and take a horseback ride on a Mexican ranch .

12. Adventure Parks

For the young and the young at heart, the Cozumel area offers a choice of adventure parks with activities to entertain everyone. Xenses has more than 15 activities that take you across air, land and water, while Adventure Park and Xplor Park offer zip lines and suspension bridges, along with swimming and snorkeling.

When you cruise to Cozumel, you can explore the ocean, the jungle, ancient Mayan ruins and contemporary Mexican culture. You can concentrate on one activity or pick a trip that combines two or three. Maybe even do a little shopping . All of these activities can be coordinated through Carnival shore excursions, which takes care of the planning and transportation. With so many choices, there’s surely one that’s exactly right for you.

Related articles

Explore mexico.

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-to/mexico-cruises.aspx