35 Best Things to do in Cozumel Cruise Port

Cozumel is a popular spot in the Caribbean, offering plenty of fun things to do here, from thrilling water activities to relaxing on the beach as soon as you arrive at Cozumel cruise port.

Whether you love history and want to explore ancient Mayan ruins or enjoy diving into clear waters full of marine life, Cozumel has something for every traveler.  

Let’s explore what are the best things to do in Cozumel Cruise Port 

How Big is Cozumel Island?

Cozumel is a compact island located off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It measures approximately 28 miles (45 km) long and 10 miles (16 km) wide, with a total land area of around 188 square miles (487 square km). 

What is the Weather in Cozumel?

Cozumel weather is warm all year. The average high temperature is around 85°F (29°C) and low around 70°F (21°C). It’s usually sunny and dry, but cooler from November to March.  

The rainy season is from June to October, with heavy rain showers, especially in September and October. Humidity is high, around 70-80%. The hottest month is August.

Cruise Ports in Cozumel

Here are the 3 main Cruise Port in Cozumel 

Punta Langosta Cruise Terminal 

 The Punta Langosta Pier in Cozumel is one of the oldest cruise ports on the island. It is located in downtown San Miguel and is mainly used by smaller and luxury cruise ships.  

Advantage: This port is close to downtown shops, restaurants, and parks, as well as a faster exit from the port area and a more personalized experience. 

Cruise lines that use this port: Disney Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Viking, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, WindStar, and Azamara. 

International Cruise Terminal (International TMM Pier) 

The International Cruise Terminal in Cozumel is one of the biggest and busiest on the island. It is located just 3 miles south of downtown San Miguel and can accommodate large cruise ships. Its location near the town makes it convenient for passengers to access amenities. 

Advantage: Terminal has restaurants, bars, shops, and tour desks. There are also pool areas with loungers and umbrellas, as well as vendors selling merchandise and snacks. The terminal is easily accessible to downtown San Miguel by taxi or walking. 

Cruise lines that use this port: Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity cruises. 

Puerta Maya Cruise Terminal 

The Puerta Maya Cruise Terminal in Cozumel is the newest cruise port and is located about 5 miles south of downtown San Miguel and is designed to handle the largest cruise ships.  

Cruise lines that use this port: The terminal is used by cruise lines under carnival Corporation like Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, Costa, Seabourn and Cunard. 

Advantage: Even though it is further from downtown, the Puerta Maya cruise port offers facilities like swimming pools with bars, a beach club with loungers and water sports, a shopping plaza with branded stores, and food courts within the terminal. 

Cozumel Transportation

Most cruise visitors in Cozumel prefer using official taxis for convenience. Renting a car or scooter gives you more freedom, while public combis are a basic and cheap option for slower transportation. 

Taxis 

Many taxis are available at the cruise piers. Fares to downtown start at $8–10 but you can negotiate rates for longer trips to beaches and attractions. You can also hire taxis for the whole day. Look for the official white taxi vans. 

Walking 

You can easily walk from the cruise piers to downtown San Miguel. There are many shops, restaurants, and plazas within a mile. 

Rental Cars/Scooters 

There are rental agencies in downtown and near cruise terminals. Guests can rent Scooter that costs $25 per day, while cars start at $50+ per day. Be careful when driving because the roads can be narrow and busy. 

Public Transportation 

Local passenger vans called combis offer shared rides from cruise piers to popular areas like beaches for $2 to 3 per ride. The vans make multiple stops, so the journey can be slow. 

Best Beaches in Cozumel near Cruise Port 

Here are the few best beaches in Cozumel for cruisers. 

Money Bar Beach Club 

The Money Bar Beach Club in Cozumel is located about 4.6 miles from Punta Langosta cruise terminal and 1.7 miles from Puerta Maya pier. A day pass costs per person and includes access to the beach, pools, loungers, and umbrellas. You can buy food and drinks separately. 

The beach club is less crowded than public beaches. It can get busier when multiple cruise ships are in port. The club is easily accessible by taxi or shuttle from the cruise ports, and parking is available for rental cars. Beach wheelchairs and ramps are available upon request.  

The Money Bar provides a more peaceful beach club experience compared to public beaches in Cozumel. 

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park 

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park in Cozumel has a beautiful sandy beach that is over 1 mile long with clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are plenty of loungers, umbrellas, and shaded areas, as well as beach volleyball courts and water sports rentals available. 

The park is approximately 5.7 miles from Punta Langosta Pier and around 2.9 miles from Puerta Maya Pier. General admission costs $24.50 for adults and $14 for kids 4 to 11, while an all-inclusive day pass is $59 and includes drinks and buffet. Additional fees apply for lockers, gear rentals, and dolphin encounters. 

Taxis and shuttles continuously run from the cruise ports, and parking is available for rental vehicles. Chankanaab offers a full beach experience with adventure park attractions like dolphin encounters, ziplines, and more, making it popular for cruise guests looking for an action-packed shore day. 

Isla de la Pasión (Passion Island)

Passion Island in Cozumel is a beautiful private beach with white sand and clear blue water. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The beach has loungers, umbrellas, and shaded areas. You can also get a beach massage there. 

It’s about 7.4 miles from Punta Langosta Port and around 9.6 miles From Puerta Maya Port. The day pass costs $65 for adults and $30 for kids 5 to11. This includes the boat ride, beach access, pools, and activities. Food, drinks, rentals, and spa services cost extra. 

You need to buy day passes in advance to visit. Boat transfers run regularly from the cruise ports. The island has beach wheelchairs, but it’s not fully paved. Isla de la Pasión offers great amenities and service, but it’s more expensive for cruise guests. 

Mr. Sanchos Beach Club 

Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club in Cozumel has a long sandy beach with loungers, umbrellas, and huts. The clear blue water is great for swimming and activities like beach volleyball. There are also pools, including an infinity pool with an ocean view.  

Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club is about 9.95 miles from Punta Langosta Pier and 7 miles from Puerta Maya Pier. A taxi ride takes 5 to 15 minutes. Mr. Sanchos Beach Club all-inclusive day pass costs $68 for adults and $31 for kids, including beach and pool access, kayaks, and snorkeling. Food, drinks, and other services cost extra.  

It’s easy to reach by taxi or shuttle from the cruise ports, with parking available. The club has paved paths and ramps, but the beach has soft sand. Beach wheelchairs are available upon request.

Overall, Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club offers a classic Caribbean experience near the Cozumel cruise ports, with affordable day passes that provide access to great amenities. 

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park 

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, Cozumel is a natural, peaceful beach with eco-tourism, away from the busy ports, making it a good choice for cruise visitors with clear blue water, good for swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling. It has loungers, umbrellas, and shade. 

It’s about 22.8 miles from Punta Langosta cruise terminal and 20 miles from Puerta Maya Cozumel pier. Entry costs $22 for adults and $13 for kids, with extra charges for rentals and food. 

Taxis and buses can drop you off, and there’s parking if you have a car. The paths are paved, but the beach has soft sand. Accessibility for wheelchairs is limited.  

Paradise Beach 

Paradise Beach in Cozumel offers a luxurious beach experience close to the cruise ports, with pools and cabanas making it a popular choice despite the higher cost. There are plenty of palm trees for shade and loungers, umbrellas, and cabanas for rent.  

Paradise Beach Cozumel is about 8.5 miles from Punta Langosta Pier and 6 miles from Puerta Maya cruise port, a short taxi ride away. A day pass costs $60 for adults and $30 for kids 6 to 12, including beach access and non-motorized water sports. Food, drinks, and cabana rentals are extra.  

Best Restaurants in Cozumel Near Cruise Port

Here are the few best restaurants in Cozumel for cruisers. 

Pancho’s Backyard 

Pancho’s Backyard is a relaxed, outdoor restaurant with a fun and rustic feel. Cruisers can eat under palapas with a view of the Caribbean Sea. It’s a family-owned place that’s been around for over 30 years.

They are known for their fresh seafood and Mexican dishes. It’s about 1 mile from Punta Langosta Pier and around 0.07 miles from Puerta Maya Pier.  

Pancho’s Backyard Cozumel specialize in Mexican and seafood cuisine, with popular dishes like ceviche, fish tacos, and fajitas. They also offer burgers, sandwiches, and other casual food. They have a full bar serving margaritas, cocktails, beer, and wine.  

The dress code is casual and beachy. It’s recommended to make a reservation for dinner. It’s located right off the main oceanfront street in downtown San Miguel.  

Colores y Sabores 

Colores y Sabores is a fancy restaurant that serves creative Mexican food with a modern twist. The decor is stylish and colorful, and there is both indoor and outdoor seating.

The restaurant is close to Punta Langosta Cozumel pier, about 0.3 miles away, which is a 5 to 7 minute walk from the cruise pier. It is also around 2.6 miles from Puerta Maya Pier, which is a 10 to 15 minute taxi ride. 

Colores y Sabores Cozumel specializes in modern Mexican food with influences from around the world. Some popular dishes are ceviche, duck mole, and beef cheek tacos. They also have unique cocktails and a big wine selection. 

The restaurant has a more formal dress code, so no beachwear is allowed. It is a good idea to make a reservation, especially for dinner. The atmosphere is refined but lively, and the restaurant is located near the main plaza in downtown San Miguel. 

Fuego Taps Bar & Grill 

A casual kosher restaurant and sports bar, part of the Riviera Kosher group. The place has a relaxed vibe with TV screens showing sports and the place gets lively during major sporting events. 

Fuego Taps Bar & Grill offers kosher-keeping cruise visitors a convenient and laidback dining option very close to the Punta Langosta terminal in downtown Cozumel. It’s about 0.7 miles from Punta Langosta Port, an 8 to 10 minute walk from the cruise pier. From Puerta Maya Pier, it’s around 2.9 miles, a 12 to 15 minute taxi ride.  

The menu includes kosher American food like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as some Mexican-inspired dishes like fajitas and tacos. They also have vegetarian and vegan options and a full bar with cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. The dress code is casual, and no reservations are needed for small groups. 

Fuego is near the oceanfront in downtown Cozumel, offering a convenient and relaxed dining option for kosher-keeping cruise visitors near the Punta Langosta terminal. 

Cozumel Activities for Families

Cozumel is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Here’s a guide to some of the best Cozumel family activities. 

Glass Bottom Boat Tours 

These tours offer a unique way to explore the underwater world without getting wet. Families can observe the vibrant coral reefs and marine life through the glass-bottom of the boat. Many tours include snorkeling stops, allowing those interested to get in the water and experience the reefs up close. 

Fishing Charters and Tours 

Cozumel Fishing charter is an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts, and many operators offer family-friendly fishing charters and tours. Families can try their hand at catching various fish species, such as marlin, tuna, and sailfish, while enjoying the beautiful ocean views. 

Cozumel Museum 

This museum in Cozumel shows the island’s history and culture, including Mayan heritage, pirate history, and marine life. Kids can enjoy interactive displays and activities.

The museum is in downtown San Miguel, so it’s convenient to visit. 

Horseback Riding 

In Cozumel, many ranches and stables give guided horseback riding tours for families to explore the island’s natural beauty. The rides go through jungle trails, mangrove forests, and beaches. Skilled guides make sure all riders have a safe and fun experience, no matter their skill level. 

Xcaret Park (Mainland) 

Xcaret Park Cozumel is a popular day trip destination from the island, while it is not located on Cozumel itself. This eco-archaeological park offers a variety of attractions, including underground rivers, butterfly pavilions, cultural shows, and Mexican folk-art exhibits. Families can swim, snorkel, and explore the tropical surroundings. 

Cozumel Butterfly & Botanical Gardens

This serene garden is home to a variety of butterflies and other wildlife, as well as a diverse collection of tropical plants and flowers. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths and learn about the different species. The gardens offer educational tours and interactive exhibits, making it a great learning experience for children. 

Atlantis Submarine 

Families can see the underwater world without getting wet on the Atlantis Submarine. The tour lasts 45 minutes and goes down 100 feet to see coral reefs and marine life. The submarine has big windows and an informative tour guide, making it an educational and comfortable adventure. 

Cozumel Snorkeling and Scuba diving for Cruisers

Cozumel is renowned for its excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Here are some of the best locations for diving and Cozumel snorkeling tours. 

Palancar Reef 

Palancar Reef in Cozumel, Mexico is a popular scuba diving spot. It is about 4 miles southwest of Cozumel, part of the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. The reef is shallow, ranging from 50 to 115 feet deep.

Beginners can enjoy snorkeling in the Palancar Gardens, while experienced divers can explore deeper areas like the Palancar Caves and Tunnels.  

The Palancar Reef Cozumel is known for its diverse coral formations and marine life, including fish, turtles, rays, sharks, and whale sharks. It has caves, tunnels, and coral canyons, with excellent visibility of 100 to 200 feet. 

Santa Rosa Wall 

 The Cozumel Santa Rosa Wall is a famous deep-water dive spot near Cozumel, Mexico. It’s about 6 miles southwest of Cozumel, part of the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park.

The wall goes from 50 feet deep at the top to over 200 feet deep at the bottom. It’s good for experienced divers at the top and technical divers with special training at the bottom.  

The Santa Rosa Wall, Cozumel is known for its steep drop-off and the chance to see big sea creatures like sharks, rays, and turtles. The wall is covered in colorful corals, sponges, and sea fans, making it a beautiful underwater sight.

Visibility is usually great, around 100 to 150 feet, giving divers amazing views. Due to the depth and strong currents, only experienced divers should go, preferably with a guide.  

Colombia Reef 

Colombia Reef is a well-liked place for snorkeling and diving near Cozumel, Mexico. It’s about 1 mile from the coast, south of downtown. The reef is part of the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, which protects the coral reef.  

Colombia Reef is shallow, good for snorkeling and new divers. The depth ranges from 70 to 90 feet. The water is clear, with visibility often over 100 feet.

The Colombia Reef Cozumel has many types of marine life like fish, turtles, rays, and colorful corals. There are different coral structures and swim-throughs, making it fun for snorkeling or diving. 

El Cielo 

El Cielo is a famous deep-water dive spot off the southwest coast of Cozumel, Mexico. It is about 6 miles southwest of Cozumel, part of the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. The depths at El Cielo Cozumel range from 15 to 30 feet. The reef is known for its variety of sponges and coral formations.  

The site has drop-offs, canyons, and swim-throughs, with good visibility of 100 to 200 feet. It is a top diving site in Cozumel, popular for its beauty and challenging conditions, attracting scuba enthusiasts. 

Paso del Cedral 

Paso del Cedral is a reef near Cozumel, Mexico’s southern tip. It’s part of the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. The reef is shallow, great for snorkeling and beginner diving, with depths from 30 to 60 feet. It’s known for marine life like fish, turtles, rays, and colorful corals.  

The calm waters and shallow depths make it perfect for families and beginners. Tours to Paso del Cedral are popular from Cozumel’s south. The reef is reachable by boat from Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. Visibility is usually good, offering clear views of marine life. 

Free things to do in Cozumel Mexico Cruise Port

Here’s a guide to some great free things to do in Cozumel Cruise Port: 

Playa San Martin 

Playa San Martin beach is in the south of Cozumel, close to Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. It has white sand and blue water, great for swimming, sunbathing, and walks. There are showers and restrooms but bring your own beach stuff.

Nearby, there are restaurants and beach clubs to buy food and drinks. 

Playa Palancar 

Playa Palancar Cozumel beach club is a popular beach on the southwest coast of the island. It has beautiful palm trees and good snorkeling in the shallow water. The beach can get busy with locals and tourists, especially on weekends and holidays.  

El Cedral Mural 

El Cedral Cozumel is located on the side of a building on Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, the El Cedral Mural is a stunning work of art that depicts the history and culture of Cozumel. It’s a great photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the island’s rich heritage.  

San Miguel 

San Miguel is the main town on the island. It’s a great place to explore on foot for free. Walk through the colorful streets and admire the vibrant buildings, street art, and local shops.

Visit the Plaza Principal, the central square, and explore the local markets for souvenirs and street food. Look out for local events, festivals, or performances in the plazas and parks. 

‘Cozumel’ Sign 

One popular spot on the island is the big Cozumel sign in downtown. It’s a colorful sign by the beautiful Caribbean Sea, perfect for photos. You can visit for free and take a souvenir photo to remember your time in Cozumel Port.

To avoid crowds and get a great shot, go early in the morning or later in the evening. 

Cozumel Shopping Places

Cozumel is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide variety of goods and souvenirs at great prices. Here’s a guide to the best shopping in Cozumel: 

Downtown San Miguel 

The downtown area of San Miguel is great for shopping, with lots of stores and markets on the streets. Rafael E. Melgar and Avenida Rafael Melgar are the main shopping streets, where you can buy local crafts, jewelry, clothes, and more. Visit the lively Mercado Municipal for local goods, fresh food, and cheap souvenirs. 

Cozumel Shops at Puerta Maya Cruise Terminal  

Cruise ship passengers can shop at Puerta Maya Cruise Terminal for duty-free luxury items like jewelry, watches, perfumes, and designer clothing. It’s a convenient place for one-stop shopping. 

Cozumel Pearl Farm 

Cozumel is well-known for its pearl farming. The Cozumel Pearl Farm is a great place to visit if you like shopping. You can tour the farm, see how pearls are grown, and buy pearls and jewelry there.

They have a variety of pearl products like loose pearls, necklaces, and earrings. 

Plaza del Sol & Plaza del Patrimonio 

These two shopping plazas are in downtown San Miguel. Plaza del Sol has many jewelry stores with silver and gemstone jewelry at good prices. Plaza del Patrimonio is good for souvenirs, local crafts, and artisanal products. 

Royal Village Shopping Center 

Royal Village Shopping Center Cozumel is located in downtown San Miguel along the waterfront. It’s near the cruise ship piers and ferry terminal. The open-air mall has many shops selling souvenirs, Mexican crafts, clothes, jewelry, and more.

You can find local and international brands here. Bargaining is common at smaller shops, but prices are fixed at larger stores. Explore the side streets for unique items. 

Los Cinco Soles 

Los Cinco Soles Cozumel shop is famous for its shops selling Mexican crafts, jewelry, and clothes. Skilled artisans make and sell unique handmade items. Wear comfy shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets. Bargaining is common, so you can politely negotiate prices. It’s best to go early to avoid crowds and heat. 

Exciting Things to do in Cozumel

Here are some other exciting things to do in Cozumel: 

Río Secreto 

Río Secreto is an amazing underground river and cave system near Playa del Carmen. It’s a popular trip from Cozumel, letting visitors explore beautiful caverns and swim in clear waters. Guided tours show the caves’ rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.

It’s a special adventure that mixes nature, history, and fun. 

Take an ATV or Dune Buggy Tour 

Cruisers can explore the island’s rough land and hidden spots by taking an ATV or dune buggy tour. These tours go through jungle paths, past old Mayan ruins, and along quiet beaches. It’s an exciting adventure that lets guests see Cozumel’s beauty in a new way. Some tours also stop for swimming, snorkeling, or exploring hidden cenotes. 

Kiteboarding and Windsurfing 

In Cozumel, the steady trade winds make it perfect for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Cruisers can learn or rent gear to try these fun water sports in specific spots. 

Mayan Ruins 

Cozumel has some small Mayan ruins to explore, like the San Gervasio Ruins in San Miguel. These ruins show the island’s ancient history. For bigger ruins, go on a day trip to the mainland to see sites like Tulum or Chichen Itza. 

FAQs – Best Things to do in Cozumel Cruise Port 2024