The Best Area To Stay In Cozumel
Strictly speaking, the island is a safe place and there are no areas to be avoided. That said if your primary motivation in coming to the island is scuba diving then you probably want to try and find somewhere central, or towards the south of the island so you have less distance to travel to dive.
Lets face it for divers, the best area to stay in Cozumel is as close to the dock as possible, right? Everything else comes secondary, I mean, how much time are you going to spend inside after all?
Ancient Mayan Ruins Dont Impress
Whats the big deal of having Cozumel Mayan ruins dating back hundreds of years? Or temples dedicated to the Mayan goddess of fertility? Hell, San Gervasio sounds like a babys food in Spanish made by some cult.
Now, what would I do with that? Plus, if something is that old in the first place then maybe it should have stayed in the history books where it belongs.
Its like with Caesers Palace. Ill take mine with a slot machine and blackjack.
Thank you very much.
To Go All Inclusive Or Not
Speaking as someone who lives on the island, I personally think that far too many people visiting Cozumel stay in all-inclusive resorts. When putting together this list of my top places to stay in Cozumel, not one all-inclusive resort made the list. I have added one at the end if you really feel that is the best option for you. But, when you stay in one of the resorts here they make it very difficult for you to leave.
This means that you will potentially miss out on so many experiences that Cozumel has to offer visitors. Like the food at Buccanos, the microbrewery on Calle 10, and so many other small locally run businesses.
As a tour operator here in Cozumel I know full well the difference in business practices between the smaller mom and pop shops, and the big corporate money-hungry all-inclusive resorts. So Im always going to side with the smaller locally run places.
Don’t Miss: Where Is The Best Place To Stay In London
How Big Is Cozumel
Cozumel is a 478 km² Caribbean Island around 12km off the coast of mainland Mexico. Its actually Mexicos largest permanently inhabited Caribbean island with over 100,000 people living on the island. That doesnt include the tourists that we welcome here on the island each year. Tourism from scuba diving in Cozumel started in the sixties here, so its taken a long time to get where we are.
There are two movie theatres in Cozumel, multiple supermarkets, and you can even find a Burger King if you look hard enough . But that shouldnt even cross your mind as Cozumel has some of the best restaurants in this area so you will be spoilt for choice of dining options, we even have world-class private chefs in Cozumel you can book to cook for you in your condo if you get tired of dining out!
Melia Cozumel Golf All Inclusive
Perched on Santa Pilar Beach, Melia Cozumel Golf All Inclusive is a smaller all-inclusive, with a low-key family vibe. The real selling point of the resort, however, is its prime location on one of the most beautiful beaches in Cozumel’s North Hotel Zone.
Rooms are clean and comfortable, though a bit basic. But ones with an ocean view are certainly worth it for the sweeping turquoise views.
Where Melia Cozumel exceeds expectations are in its suites, like the Royal Suite with Golf. This massive ground-floor suite has a private terrace with a whirlpool, as well as unlimited golf during your stay. Those who don’t golf are given a $35 spa credit per person per day. The Cozumel Country Club, which is the only course on the island, is just across the street.
The resort has two pools: one for adults and one for families. The adults-only pool is located right off the lobby and has cabanas with ocean views. The family pool is near the kids’ club.
Address: Carretera Costera Norte, Zona Hotelera Nte., 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
Recommended Reading: Places To Stay In Falmouth Ma
The Landmark Resort Of Cozumel
Km 6.813, Carr. Costera Sur Sur, Zona Hotelera NteSan Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R. 77675+52 987 869 5130
The Landmark Resort of Cozumel is one of the most-loved 4 star hotels in the area.
Although more like an upscale condominium, The Landmark boasts elegant Greco-Roman style and lovely landscaping throughout the property.
What Is The Best Hotel In Cozumel Near Cozumel International Airport
The best hotel near Cozumel International Airport is the Hotel B Cozumel which is situated at just a nine-minute drive from the airport! This hotel is a four-star hotel which has views of the Caribbean Sea and beautiful outdoor swimming pools which overlook the water which makes this place one of the best hotels near the airport.
The price of this hotel is relatively standard for the facilities that the hotel offers, however, if your budget isnt going to stretch very far then we recommend the Caribo Cozumel which has everything a hotel room needs but without the fancy price tag. This hotel is only a five-minute drive from the airport or a 22-minute walk.
Also Check: Most Romantic Places To Stay In Paris
Best Airbnb In Cozumel: 12 Best Places To Stay Beyond The Tourist Resorts
Written bySebastiaan
The charming Isla Cozumel is the perfect place to find a nice Airbnb. Besides those cozy places to stay, Cozumel mainly has large-scale hotels and resorts. Or cruise ships at the huge jetty. But Airbnb offers the best places in Cozumel off the tourist track. We stayed at this very affordable Airbnb in Cozumel with locals at home, but it doesnt seem to be available anymore. But we had more options on our wishlist, these 14 beautiful Airbnbs for Cozumel!
Read more: we wrote a Cozumel travel guide, including tips for what to do, the best places to eat and how to get to the island.
Go To The Chaan Kaan Planetarium
Chaan Kaan in Maya means to observe or enjoy the sky, so why not do that, especially if youre traveling with your kids? This is the first 3D full-dome planetarium in Latin America where you can enjoy a celestial image in real-time. They also have a Mayan Room where you can learn about the Mayan astronomy as well as many other topics. It is closed on Mondays.
You May Like: Where To Stay In Izmir
Whats Good To Do In The North Of Cozumel
Although it may seem a little far out if you just judge it on the map, there is actually a lot of good things to do in the north. You are close to Buccanos . If you are a golfer then you will love the Cozumel Golf Course. Close by you will also have the popular Hemingway bar as well as La Monina. The north of Cozumel is great if you prefer to be in a quiet area where there is good walking and jogging opportunities . You also have Playa Azul beach here, and of course the Key Lime Pie Factory.
The bad
When considering where to stay in Cozumel. Its probably the worst place to stay if you are planning on diving a lot as it is pretty far from the marine park. There are also limited dining options in this area. Of course, all of this can be solved if you plan on renting a car in Cozumel.
How far are points of interest
Downtown is a 10-minute drive.
Price $$ $$$
How Long Should I Stay In Cozumel
As long as you can! Many people visit Cozumel for a weekend trip either from mainland Mexico, or from the USA. There are direct flights from many major US cities, making this a popular getaway.
People also opt to do day trips from nearby places such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen. But, if you have the time, spending a week in Cozumel will allow you to really enjoy the island at a slower pace.
Don’t Miss: Best Places To Stay In Huntington Beach
Cozumel Centro Downtown San Miguel
San Miguel de Cozumel is the busier, central city area of the Island, and the downtown portion it is familiarly known as Centro.
Centro radiates out from the Benito Juárez Park, San Miguels central plaza right across Melgar Avenue from the ferry terminal.
The central plaza is also home to the famous Clock Tower one of the towns primary landmarks and meeting spots along with dancing water fountains, and the Cozumel sign for photo ops.
Centro is likely where youll also find the greatest variety of Airbnb rooms or homes for rent, as well as a variety of delightful boutique hotels, villas, and guesthouses.
Depending on your preferences, you can seek out places with some home-cooked meals included or perhaps your own kitchen, and usually a small pool in an interior courtyard. And a hammock.
Definitely go for the hammock.
Centro also has plenty of larger, full-service hotels of varying price points, as well as a crop of hip, new economy hostels aimed at the 20-something diving and artist crowd, many of whom are also keen on good WiFi and doing a little remote work while theyre here.
Its also close to a few large supermarkets and various convenience stores, so if youre renting a pad with a kitchen, youll have an easy time getting some supplies, all on foot.
Theres really something for everyone, and staying in the downtown area has obvious benefits.
The Best Places To Stay In Cozumel
There are so many different options when it comes to finding accommodation in Cozumel.
Sea view or in town?
Hotel or Condo?
There is seemingly a neverending list when you search for accommodation in Cozumel. So here are my personal favorites Cozumel condos and apartments, I personally know the owners and have checked them all out.
P.s. Be sure to tell them if will be diving with us as some of them will even offer you a discount!
Read Also: Best Places To Stay In Midtown Atlanta
Reasons You Should Never Visit Cozumel Mexico
Thinking about visiting Cozumel? Just forget it.
Yes, thats right.
No need to read again.
Thems fighting words for some, but then again, as the great H.I. McDunnough once said:
Theres whats right and theres whats right and never the twain shall meet.
So here it is. The scoop. The low-down. The hidden secrets of Cozumel Island no one else would ever dare to tell you brought to you by Fly Cozumel.
De nada.
Boat Cruises From Cozumel
Touring boat trips are available for those who want to explore some of the waters around the island. Some tours can include stops that allow you to dive off and snorkel around the luscious waters others stop at beautiful remote beaches and serve a nice lunch. Glass hulled boats are also on offer these cruise around the shallow reefs and give you a window into the marine world surrounding Cozumel.
Also Check: Best Area To Stay In Kansas City Mo
Southern Hotel Zone In Cozumel
Leaving the downtown area, and traveling further south on Melgar Ave., youll gradually reach what is known as the Southern hotel zone.
At first, the northern end of this zone is characterized by views of the large cruise ships that often port at the two more recently built cruise ship ports in the south the International Pier, and Puerta Maya, the latter of which was finished around 2015, to give you some reference.
The relatively new port complexes have created almost a second downtown area at least during the daytime. Which is to say, traveling down to the Southern area will get a little busy again with a cluster of hotels, dive shops, shopping strips, and waterfront eateries.
Once you proceed south and through a few busier intersections, youll feel things open up again. The air cools a notch, and you cruise along to the remote and picturesque southern hotel zone, along Cozumels original west coastal road, or the Old Beach Road.
The Cozumel National Marine Park also stretches along this south-west coast portion of Cozumel. It starts just below the 2 cruise ports and extends all the way down to the southernmost point on the island, known as Punta Sur.
If youre here primarily to scuba dive, youll very likely want to stay at one of the many hotels, condos or home rentals along this southern stretch.
If not, from the south its a much quicker and easier drive or cab ride to meet your boat at their designated spot in the Fonatur marina.
The Best Hotel In Cozumel
If you want to stay in a hotel, then the Presidente is my top pick. Its not an All-Inclusive so you will avoid the crowd that brings and its located in the marine park for convenience if you are diving.
Its also located in the North of the marine park so you can dive all of Cozumels sites.
The further South you stay the fewer dive sites that you can access. They also are home to one of my favorite restaurants, Alfredo di Roma. Their lamb chops and wine selection put them as one of the best places to eat in Cozumel.
Check them out at Presidente here
Recommended Reading: Best Places To Stay In Emilia Romagna
Go To The Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park
For a small island, Cozumel has a decent amount of beach parks you can visit, but one of the most popular ones is the Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park.
Chankanaab is an eco-archaeological park by the beach where you can do a tequila tasting tour, hang by the beach, see its underwater statues, snorkel, dive, ride its zipline, do the Seatrek, and other family-friendly activities. You can even do a spa there!
The Seatrek is a helmet diving tour. In it, you wear a fully enclosed helmet from your shoulders up, which allows you to walk the bottom of the ocean at around 20 to 25 feet in depth. Its almost like diving! You can book your tour directly on their website.
Chankanaab has an entrance fee, but it is worth it. You can actually skip the line by purchasing your tickets online.
About Chankanaab, I must mention, though, that the park has a sea lion show as well as dolphins and manatees in captivity. I personally dont condone any tourism activity that involves animals or promotes their captivity. In their case, Id visit the park for its other activities.
Modern Studio In The Center
Current prices and availability | 2 guests | This beautifully furnished apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, air conditioning and more luxury, but youll probably choose the studio because of its perfect location. Close to the promenade and all amenities of San Miguel, the studio is centrally located.
Tip: this host rents out two other beautiful apartments on Cozumel.
Don’t Miss: Best Area To Stay In Punta Cana
Blue Ocean Studio Near The Beach
Current prices and availability | 2 guests | This studio is located in the town of San Miguel de Cozumel, so perfectly close to all restaurants and shops. And near the promenade where you can see the most beautiful sunsets every evening. The price includes organic coffee and freshly baked bread each day. The studio also has a small kitchen.
Ride The Atlantis Submarine
Remember the C-53 wreck I mentioned above? Well, if youre not a diver, you can still see it and many of the beautiful reefs bordering Cozumel thanks to the Atlantis Submarine. Since these reefs are so rich and alive, youll probably see hundreds of fish, a few turtles, sharks, stingrays, lobsters, and more.
At the moment it departs at 10:00am, 12:00pm and 1:00pm. You can buy your tickets in advance here.
Read Also: Where To Stay In Oaxaca
Casa Del Mar Hotel & Dive Resort
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.3/5
Casa del Mar is a charming hotel surrounded by exotic gardens and the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Located less than five minutes away from Paraiso reef, guests are perfectly situated to dive or snorkel amongst the marine life and corals. Casa del Mar does of course have an in-house dive shop and activities staff to help arrange all the things youd like to do. In addition to 89 comfortable rooms, the resort also offers tennis courts, playgrounds, basketball courts, jacuzzies, and a swimming pool with a bar. Not to mention, free access to two separate beach clubs, one for families and one that is adults only.
ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP #1 : GET TRAVEL INSURANCE
When going on vacation in the time of Covid,Travel Insuranceis a must in our opinion. Most of the current policies cover Covid medical issues as well as vacation delays due to Covid. They typically even cover your hotel if you test positive in Mexico and have to extend your trip a few days until you get a negative test. You can easily compare and choose from the top travel insurance policies here.
Enjoy Its Delicious Food
I may not be a foodie, but I can certainly say food in Cozumel is delicious!! For breakfast, I highly recommend going to Panaderia El Maple , where you can get fresh local pastries as well as some international favorites. Corazon Contento is another excellent spot for a more wholesome breakfast.
Taqueria El Pique, on the other hand, is my favorite for dinner. This taqueria mostly frequented by locals, so its food is both delicious and cheap.
It has a wide variety of traditional tacos served in both corn and wheat tortillas. Try their chicken tacos and tacos Al Pastor, among many others.
Lastly, Cerveceria Punta Sur offers delicious pizzas and a selection of locally brewed and foreign beers. Another great spot for dinner.
You May Like: Cheap Places To Stay In Germany