35 Best Things to do in Cozumel Cruise Port
Adventure and relaxation await on this beautiful island. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or an adrenaline junkie, Cozumel has something for everyone. Meanwhile, let’s dive into what makes this destination so special.
From historic ports and convenient transportation options to stunning beaches and delicious dining spots, Cozumel offers a mix of experiences. There’s a lot to see and do, so let’s explore the best things to do in Cozumel Cruise Port!
Punta Langosta Cruise Terminal
The Punta Langosta Pier is one of the oldest cruise ports in Cozumel, located in downtown San Miguel. š²š½ It mainly hosts smaller, luxury cruise ships. It is close to shops, restaurants, and parks, making it convenient for passengers.
Cruise lines using this port include Disney, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Viking, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, WindStar, and Azamara. Its proximity to downtown offers a personalized experience.
International Cruise Terminal
The International Cruise Terminal is one of the largest and busiest ports in Cozumel, located just three miles south of downtown San Miguel. This terminal can accommodate large cruise ships and offers a variety of amenities, making it convenient for passengers.
Within the terminal, you’ll find restaurants, bars, shops, and tour desks. There are also pool areas with loungers and umbrellas. The terminal is easily accessible to downtown San Miguel by taxi or on foot.
Puerta Maya Cruise Terminal
Puerta Maya is the newest cruise terminal in Cozumel and is situated about five miles south of downtown San Miguel. It’s designed to handle the largest cruise ships, offering facilities to enhance passengers’ experience.
The terminal offers swimming pools with bars, a beach club with loungers and water sports, a shopping plaza with branded stores, and several food courts. Cruise lines under Carnival Corporation, like Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America, and Princess Cruises, use this port.
Cozumel Transportation
Official taxis are a popular transportation option for visitors, offering convenience and negotiable rates for longer trips. They are readily available at the cruise piers, and you can hire them for the entire day.
Walking is an easy and enjoyable way to explore downtown San Miguel, with many shops, restaurants, and plazas within a mile from the piers.
Rental cars and scooters offer more freedom for tourists. Scooters cost around $25 per day, while cars start at $50+ per day. However, be cautious as roads can be narrow and busy.
Public transportation includes local passenger vans called combis, which offer shared rides to popular areas like beaches for just $2 to $3 per ride. Just keep in mind that these journeys can be slow due to multiple stops.
Best Beaches in Cozumel near Cruise Port
Cozumel boasts some stunning beaches near the cruise ports. These beaches provide a range of activities and relaxation options for visitors.
The Money Bar Beach Club, located about 4.6 miles from Punta Langosta and 1.7 miles from Puerta Maya, provides a more peaceful experience with its day pass access to the beach, pools, loungers, and umbrellas. The club is easily accessible by taxi or shuttle from the cruise ports.
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park is another great option located approximately 5.7 miles from Punta Langosta Pier and around 2.9 miles from Puerta Maya Pier. This park offers a full beach experience, with activities like dolphin encounters, ziplines, and more. Admission costs start at $24.50 for adults and $14 for children aged 4 to 11.
Passion Island, about 7.4 miles from Punta Langosta Port and 9.6 miles from Puerta Maya Port, is perfect for relaxation. The private beach offers white sand, clear blue water, and amenities like loungers, umbrellas, and shaded areas. A day pass costs $65 for adults and $30 for children aged 5 to 11.
Mr. Sanchoās Beach Club, located about 9.95 miles from Punta Langosta Pier and 7 miles from Puerta Maya Pier, offers a classic Caribbean experience. The all-inclusive day pass costs $68 for adults and $31 for kids, including beach and pool access, kayaks, and snorkeling.
Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is a natural, tranquil beach about 22.8 miles from Punta Langosta and 20 miles from Puerta Maya. It’s a great option for eco-tourism with entry fees at $22 for adults and $13 for kids.
Paradise Beach, located about 8.5 miles from Punta Langosta Pier and 6 miles from Puerta Maya cruise port, offers a luxurious beach experience with pools and cabanas. A day pass costs $60 for adults and $30 for children aged 6 to 12. Beach lovers can also visit Pink beach of Crete and many best beaches are in Corfu.
Best Restaurants in Cozumel Near Cruise Port
Cozumel offers several excellent dining options near the cruise ports, each providing a unique culinary experience.
Panchoās Backyard is a relaxed outdoor restaurant located about 1 mile from Punta Langosta Pier and around 0.07 miles from Puerta Maya Pier. The restaurant has been family-owned for over 30 years and is known for its fresh seafood and Mexican dishes like ceviche and fish tacos. A casual, beachy dress code is appropriate here.
Colores y Sabores is a fancy restaurant offering creative Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Situated close to Punta Langosta Cozumel pier, around 0.3 miles away, it features stylish, colorful decor and offers popular dishes like ceviche, duck mole, and beef cheek tacos. The restaurant has a more formal dress code, and reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
Fuego Taps Bar & Grill is a casual kosher restaurant and sports bar located approximately 0.7 miles from Punta Langosta Port. This eatery serves kosher American food like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, along with some Mexican-inspired dishes like fajitas and tacos. The dress code is casual, and no reservations are needed for small groups.
Cozumel Activities for Families
Cozumel is a wonderful destination for families, offering a range of activities catering to all ages and interests.
Glass Bottom Boat Tours provide a unique way to explore the underwater world. Families can observe vibrant coral reefs and marine life through the glass-bottom of the boat without getting wet.
Fishing charters and tours are ideal for families, offering the chance to catch species like marlin, tuna, and sailfish. These tours also allow families to enjoy the beautiful ocean views together.
The Cozumel Museum, located in downtown San Miguel, showcases the island’s history and culture. Kids can enjoy interactive displays and activities focused on Mayan heritage, pirate history, and marine life.
Horseback riding is another exciting option for families. Guided tours take you through jungle trails, mangrove forests, and beaches, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.
Xcaret Park, an eco-archaeological park, is a popular day trip destination from Cozumel, offering attractions like underground rivers, butterfly pavilions, and cultural shows. Families can swim, snorkel, and explore the tropical surroundings.
The Cozumel Butterfly & Botanical Gardens offer a serene environment where families can stroll along paths and learn about various butterfly species and tropical plants. Interactive exhibits make it a great educational experience for children.
The Atlantis Submarine tour provides an educational underwater adventure. The tour lasts 45 minutes and goes down 100 feet to view coral reefs and marine life.
Cozumel Snorkeling and Scuba Diving for Cruisers
Cozumel is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving spots, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Palancar Reef is a popular destination for divers of all skill levels. Located about 4 miles southwest of Cozumel, it features diverse coral formations, marine life, and excellent visibility.
Santa Rosa Wall is known for its steep drop-off and large sea creatures like sharks, rays, and turtles. It’s suitable for experienced divers due to its depth and strong currents.
Colombia Reef, about 1 mile from the coast, is perfect for snorkeling and beginner diving. It offers clear waters, diverse marine life, and fun coral structures to explore.
El Cielo is famous for its variety of sponges and coral formations. The site has drop-offs, canyons, and swim-throughs, offering stunning underwater views.
Paso del Cedral is great for families and beginners with its shallow depths and calm waters. The reef is home to vibrant marine life and is accessible by boat from Punta Sur Eco Beach Park.
Free Things to do in Cozumel
Cozumel offers several free attractions that are enjoyable for visitors looking to explore without spending money.
Playa San Martin, located near Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, provides a beautiful setting for swimming, sunbathing, and walking along the white sand beach.
Playa Palancar is another popular beach with palm trees and good snorkeling opportunities in the shallow waters. It can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays.
The El Cedral Mural, located on Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, is a stunning piece of artwork depicting Cozumel’s history and culture. It’s a great photo opportunity.
San Miguel, the main town on the island, is perfect for exploring on foot. Admire the vibrant buildings, street art, and local shops, and visit the Plaza Principal and local markets for souvenirs and street food.
The ‘Cozumel’ sign in downtown is a popular spot for photos. Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and capture the perfect shot.
Cozumel Shopping Places
Cozumel is a shopper’s paradise with a variety of goods and souvenirs at great prices. You can learn about which drink you should try in Greece to get an idea.
Downtown San Miguel offers many stores and markets. Rafael E. Melgar and Avenida Rafael Melgar are the main shopping streets, where you can find local crafts, jewelry, and clothes. The Mercado Municipal is great for local goods, fresh food, and affordable souvenirs.
The Cozumel Shops at Puerta Maya Cruise Terminal offer duty-free luxury items like jewelry, watches, perfumes, and designer clothing.
The Cozumel Pearl Farm is a unique shopping destination where visitors can tour the farm and purchase pearl products like necklaces and earrings.
Plaza del Sol and Plaza del Patrimonio in downtown San Miguel have numerous jewelry stores with silver and gemstone pieces, as well as shops for souvenirs and artisanal products.
The Royal Village Shopping Center is an open-air mall along the waterfront in downtown San Miguel, offering a variety of shops for souvenirs, crafts, clothes, and jewelry. Bargaining is common at smaller shops.
Los Cinco Soles is famous for its shops selling Mexican crafts, jewelry, and clothes made by skilled artisans. It’s best to visit early to avoid crowds and heat.
Exciting Things to do in Cozumel
Here are some exciting activities for adventurous visitors to Cozumel.
RĆo Secreto is an underground river and cave system near Playa del Carmen. Guided tours offer the chance to explore its beautiful caverns and swim in clear waters.
ATV or dune buggy tours are a thrilling way to explore Cozumel’s rugged terrain, jungle paths, Mayan ruins, and secluded beaches. Some tours include stops for swimming, snorkeling, or exploring cenotes.
Kiteboarding and windsurfing are popular in Cozumel, thanks to the steady trade winds. Visitors can learn these sports or rent gear for a fun experience.
The San Gervasio Ruins in San Miguel offer a look into Cozumel’s ancient Mayan history. For larger ruins, take a day trip to the mainland to visit Tulum or Chichen Itza.
Cozumel is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, diving into crystal-clear waters, or strolling through vibrant markets, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy its beautiful beaches and delicious food.
With so much to offer, and many things to do in Cozumel Cruise Port is a top destination for travelers looking for adventure or relaxation. Its diverse activities ensure every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories.