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Self Guided "On Your Own" Island Tour |
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1: Book a rental car now ...
Since Cozumel has few paved roads around the island, you can rent a car and strike out on your own island tour with very little chance of getting lost. Circling the island via paved road can take as little as 2 hours or as many as you want depending on how many stops you decide to make at the beaches and points of interest.
2: Order an Island Map now ...
3: Print the Beach Chart and review it along with the map to familiarize yourself with the area.
4: Pick points of interest to you
from the beach chart or these other points of interest in Cozumel. This
trek outlined assumes you head SOUTH first from downtown.
5: Have fun & enjoy your day in Cozumel!!
Cozumel Island Museum
- The history of Cozumel is represented by its museum, which is located in the building that was originally the first luxury hotel opened on the island in 1936. Four large exhibition rooms take residents and visitors into daily life on the island and in the waters around it, from the past to the present. The Museum is located on the corner of Melgar & 8 Norte
Central Lighthouse
- Located just past Hotel Cozumel at Playa Calatita, this is the island's newest lighthouse completed in 2000. There are 2 other lighthouses as well around the island: one inside Punta Sur Ecological Park and one on the far north end of the island called Punta Molas.
Heading Southward out of San Miguel Downtown |
Be sure to take the old highway turn-off where a sign says CALETA because this road stays close to the sea for beautiful views and beach access.
Estate Beach Club and Patas & Alas Butterfly Sanctuary
For snorkeling and to see Cozumel's butterflies!
- Without question the first great place to get your snorkel fins wet!! Noted by DIVER Magazine in Summer 2002 as the "#1 Snorkel Spot" in the Caribbean this lovely small beach area offers pristine water and thousands of colorful reef fish to enjoy!
There is a snack / beverage bar at PalMar as well as a big freshwater pool to enjoy between snorkel times. And then to really cool off, step back into the cool, garden shade of Cozumel's only butterfly sanctuary and try to get some pictures of these colorful flying jewels!
Click to Read More about PalMar !
Click to Read More about Patas & Alas (Wings & Feet) Butterfly Sanctuary!
Chankanaab
Park
- The principle attraction of the park is Chankanaab Lagoon, which
means "small sea" in Mayan. A result of rain and seawater eroding
the porous limestone, the lagoon is considered to be a unique ecosystem
on a global scale. The influence of the nearby ocean causes the formation
of petrified coral in the lagoon and a large community of fish moves
between the ocean and the lagoon through two underground caves.
- Explore the cultural past of Mexico in the archeological park
where 60 exact replicas of works of art in stone take you on an extraordinary
magical tour of Mesoamerica. A lush and aromatic botanical garden
surrounds the lagoon.
- The beach at Chankanaab is the best place to try water sports
such as snorkeling and diving. On-site shops provide everything you
need to explore the marvelous coral reefs and watch the multicolored
fish. The beach offers fun for everyone as well as lounge chairs,
palapas, restaurants, stores and bathrooms.
- Dolphin Encounter, Swim, Snorkel and Scuba are also featured inside
the park along with Sea Lion shows. Read more/book
dolphin activities!
Visit Various Beaches at Leisure for activities outlines on the Beach Chart!
Cedral ~ Off tour path on interior island road across from Mr.
Sancho's beach.
- This small village in the southern interior of the island is the
agricultural and farming center of Cozumel. There is also a small
Mayan Ruin in the area. Another easy way to see this area is on the
horseback
riding tour.
Southern Tip of the Island |
Island scenery changes dramatically as you reach the "windward" side
of Cozumel. The east side of the island from south to north is desolate,
pristine beach where turtles nest each year due to the lack of development
and activity.
Paradise Cafe
- Make like a "local" ~ hang in a hammock and enjoy the tradewinds,
an order of ceviche mixtos and a cerveza!
Punta Sur Ecological Park
- The
ecological park called Punta Sur is located in the southernmost point
of the island. Here nature shows its unity and diversity in the interaction
of various elements like Columbia Lagoon, mangrove swamps, birds,
reptiles, fish and vegetation.
- People have inhabited this area since Prehispanic times. A Mayan
ruin in the shape of a shell was probably used as a lighthouse. This
unique structure has shells imbedded in its walls that whistle in
different tones depending on the direction of the wind.
- The Punta Sur Ecological Park is dedicated to the preservation
of local flora and fauna. Tour the park's museum, whose theme is
the history of navigation around the island. There are various beaches
for swimming and organized excursions into the jungle.
- Past the museum, closer to the beach, are the remnants of a 19th
century masonry structure with a circular staircase leading to a
rectangular tower which would have been equipped with a lantern to
warn ships of the hazards of the coral infested coast. It would also
have served to indicate the entrance to the safe harbor of Columbia
Lagoon and the piers of the hacienda of the same name, which exported
the agriculture produce of the island.
- On the way back to Celarain Point along the access road bordered
by white sand dunes, the
remains of the small temple "El Caracol" continue to resist time
and weather.
A Prehispanic Mayan structure probably built in the 12th or 13th
century, this temple appears, from its technologically advanced architecture,
to have been used for navigational as well as religious purposes.
This building would have played an important navigational role during
the height of Mayan maritime commerce, which, at the time, extended
to other parts of Mexico and Central America.
This fortunate combination of architectural elements led the Cozumel
Foundation of Parks and Museums to focus the thematic content of
the marine museum on bringing the memories and cultural heritage
of the island to life. The museum is housed in what was originally
the lighthouse keeper's residence.
- Thus, the Celarain Lighthouse Museum unites several functions:
preservation and conservation of the lighthouse keeper's home and
nearby ruins, information and education; while maintaining the monument
in its original state. The museum incorporates bilingual material
and displays directed at various age groups and comprehension levels
in order to provide an interesting and enriching experience for each
visitor.
Use
the beach chart and/or drive and stop along the way at your leisure for
photos of beautiful beaches that inspire you!
Coconuts and a big Photo Op
- Don't miss this highest vantage point on the island for a great
photo of Cozumel's undeveloped, pristine, beaches that stretch as
far as the eye can see.
Mescalito's Bar
- The official turning point of the highway as you head back into
downtown San Miguel.
Punta
Molas Road
- Check your rental car contract before taking this "jeep only" sand/dirt
road because most agencies prohibit rental cars from leaving paved
surfaces. This road behind Mescalito's Bar leads to the northern
lighthouse and passes several great beaches and a Mayan Ruin (Castillo
Real) along the way. AGAIN, most all rental agencies prohibit passage
on this road with their vehicles. Typically the best way to see this
region of the island without getting in trouble with rental car agency
contracts is to do the incredible Jungle
Jeep Tour!! If you happen to get stuck in the sand on this
tour at least you have help getting out!!
Heading West Toward Downtown San Miguel |
Mayan Ruins at San Gervasio
- Pronounced san-her-BA-see-o, this is a major excavation site of
a Mayan Ruin covering about 10 acres. Experience first hand the mysteries
of Mayan culture by visiting San Gervasio, the largest archeological
site on the island. A
strategic location from both a commercial and political point of
view, San Gervasio was also a sacred place for the Maya.
Inhabited from 200AD to the Spanish conquest, San Gervasio was the
sanctuary of the Goddess X'chel as well as an important commercial,
political and cultural center.
Engravings at the site relate to events all over the Mayan world.
The ruins are located off the transversal Highway between Mezcalitos
& San Miguel.
The Foundation's new "Passport card"available at Chankanaab, Punta Sur or the museum, allows you to visit all four locations listed above for the low price of just US $20.00.
Sounds fun but .... don't want to drive yourself around?
Prefer to just enjoy the view?
and let some else drive with our guided island tours (LISTED BELOW)!
~ ~ After all, you ARE on vacation!
For those that need a little guidance ... on their vacation!
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Cozumel Butterfly Sanctuary Tour & PalMar Snorkel Beach Club |
Visit Cozumel's only Butterfly Sanctuary! Merged in 2018 with the Cozumel Butterflies & Botanical Gardens, see multitudes of colors, learn about butterfly habits and the miracle of metamorphosis. Take photos and then stay to enjoy snorkeling and the other ammenities of the PalMar Snorkel Beach Club. Great family fun & excellent value!
Starting at US $8.00!
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Cozumel ATV Jungle Adventure Tour |
Cozumel Jungle ATV Adventure will take you through specially carved out trails through Cozumel's Mayan jungles is just for you, your ATV and nobody else. Let us take you on an adrenaline pumping ATV tour to explore the exotic Mayan jungles of Cozumel Island accompanied by a fully trained and experienced guide.
From US $59 (1 Rider) to US $79 (2 Riders)
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Cozumel ATV Snorkel by Boat Adventure Tour |
Cozumel ATV Snorkel by Boat Adventure combines two (2) of the most popular activities here in Cozumel! You will experience first the off-roading ATV fun on the specially carved out trails through Cozumel's Mayan jungle and then will leave for a breathtaking snorkel adventure in our world-renowned coral reefs
From US $90 (1 Rider) to US $130 (2 Riders)
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Cozumel Deep Sea Fishing Adventure Tour |
Cozumel Deep Sea Fishing Adventure provides 1/2 day and Full day fishing excursions for the sport fishing enthusiast! Your captain and first mate will take you to the best fishing spots surrounding the island and with five (5) rods and reels going at the same time, you will be sure to catch "THE BIG ONE"!
From US $80 to US $110 Per Person
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Cozumel Glass Bottom Boat Snorkel Adventure Tour |
Cozumel Glass Bottom Boat Snorkel Adventure provides participants a visually stunning view of the world famous Cozumel coral reefs as you are boated to two (2) popular reefs, El Pariaso Reef and Chankanaab Reef. Experience the vibrant colors of our pristine Caribbean waters, the coral and the wide variety of marine life!
US $40 Per Person
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Electric (Pedego) Bike Rentals |
Come check out the available Pedego electric bikes available for rent. The best way to tour the island and see our pristine, turquoise, Caribbean ocean with white sand beaches and stunning rock formations or just to get around town during your stay.
From US $26 to US $32 Per Day Rentals
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Cozumel's Complete, Private Island Jeep & Snorkel Tour |
You'll see more in one day than others see in a lifetime!!!
Starting at US $75 Adults / US $60 Kids
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Non-Electric Bike Rentals |
Come check out the available Non-Electric bikes (Island Cruisers, Trek Mountain Bikes and Youth Bikes) that are available for rent If you want to get your daily exercise, this is the best way to tour the island and see our pristine, turquoise, Caribbean ocean with white sand beaches and stunning rock formations or just to get around town during your stay.
From US $8 to US $20 Per Day Rentals
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One-Way Private Cancun Airport / PDC Ferry Pier Shuttle Service |
You can save a bundle coming to Cozumel by flying into Cancun Airport (CUN) vs. Cozumel (CZM). But the problem has always been taking the bus from CUN to Playa del Carmen (PDC) to catch the ferry. You have to ride with wait for the bus to depart after loading lot's of people, often make multiple stops, etc. But no longer! We can now provide CUN Airport to PDC Ferry "PRIVATE SHUTTLE SERVICES" - both one-way and round trip! Check out the quickest, cleanest, most comfortable and elegant way to travel to catch the PDC ferry to CZM from the CUN Airport!
Starting From US $57 One-Way Shuttle Rates
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One-Way VIP Private Cancun Airport / PDC Ferry Pier Shuttle Service |
You can save a bundle coming to Cozumel by flying into Cancun Airport (CUN) vs. Cozumel (CZM). But the problem has always been taking the bus from CUN to Playa del Carmen (PDC) to catch the ferry. You have to ride with wait for the bus to depart after loading lot's of people, often make multiple stops, etc. But no longer! We can now provide CUN Airport to PDC Ferry "VIP LUXURIOUS SHUTTLE SERVICES" - both one-way and round trip! Check out the quickest, cleanest, most comfortable and most luxurious way to travel to catch the PDC ferry to CZM from the CUN Airport!
Starting From US $110 One-Way VIP Shuttle Rates
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PalMar Snorkel Beach Club & Patas y Alas Butterfly Sanctuary |
Bring your group and spend the day at our PalMar small, private beach facility and enjoy a day of snorkeling at Cozumel's premier beach entry snorkel spot! No crowds here and gates close daily with a maximum of 50 people on site! Plus Patas & Atlas Butterfly Sanctuary which, in 2018, merged with Cozumel Butterflies & Botanical Gardens is now included when open (seasonal)!
US $19 Adults / US $8 Kids - Includes FREE Drinks!
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Private Scuba Diving, Snorkeling & Fishing Charter Excursion Tour |
Come join us for a unique boat excursion tour experiences in Cozumel. Our private charter tours/excursions will take you into our incredible Caribbean waters where you can scuba dive, snorkel or fish (or do a combination). You will have experienced guides and crew that will make your time a wonderful experience!
US $49 Per Person
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Punta Sur EcoPark Electric Bike Adventure Tour |
Come join us for a unique bike tour experience in Cozumel. Our tour will take you from the hustle and bustle of downtown to beaches and places of beauty on the island. On these Cozumel bike tours, you can ride a Pedego electric bicycle along a designated tour route that will showcase the best sights along the coast Cozumel has to offer!
US $99 Per Person
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Rentadora ISiS Car Rentals Cozumel - Compact (Manual) 5 PAX |
Compact Class - Volkswagen (VW) Gol has a manual transmission, A/C, five (5) door hatchback and will hold a maximum of five (5) passengers.
US $50 Daily (Max = 5 pax)
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Rentadora ISiS Car Rentals Cozumel - Convertible (Manual) 4 PAX |
Convertible Economy Class - Chevrolet (Chevy) Pop Convertible has a manual transmission, comes in a two (2) or four (4) door option, no A/C and will hold a maximum of four (4) passengers.
US $45 Daily (Max = 4 pax)
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Rentadora ISiS Car Rentals Cozumel - Economy (Manual) 4 PAX |
Economy Class - Chevrolet (Chevy) Matiz has a manual transmission, comes in a five (5) door hatchback, with air conditioning (A/C) and will hold a maximum of four (4) passengers.
US $45 Daily (Max = 4 pax)
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Rentadora ISiS Car Rentals Cozumel - Subcompact (Manual) 5 PAX |
Subcompact Class - Both Chevrolet (Chevy) Aveo or Nissan Tiida have a manual transmission, comes in a four (4) door sedan, with air conditioning (A/C) and will hold a maximum of five (5) passengers.
US $55 Daily (Max = 5 pax)
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Round Trip Private Cancun Airport / PDC Ferry Pier Shuttle Service |
You can save a bundle coming to Cozumel by flying into Cancun Airport (CUN) vs. Cozumel (CZM). But the problem has always been taking the bus from CUN to Playa del Carmen (PDC) to catch the ferry. You have to ride with wait for the bus to depart after loading lot's of people, often make multiple stops, etc. But no longer! We can now provide CUN Airport to PDC Ferry "PRIVATE SHUTTLE SERVICES" - both one-way and round trip! Check out the quickest, cleanest, most comfortable and elegant way to travel to catch the PDC ferry to CZM from the CUN Airport!
Starting From US $110 Round Trip Shuttle Rates
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Round Trip VIP Private Cancun Airport / PDC Ferry Pier Shuttle Service |
You can save a bundle coming to Cozumel by flying into Cancun Airport (CUN) vs. Cozumel (CZM). But the problem has always been taking the bus from CUN to Playa del Carmen (PDC) to catch the ferry. You have to ride with wait for the bus to depart after loading lot's of people, often make multiple stops, etc. But no longer! We can now provide CUN Airport to PDC Ferry "VIP LUXURIOUS SHUTTLE SERVICES" - both one-way and round trip! Check out the quickest, cleanest, most comfortable and most luxurious way to travel to catch the PDC ferry to CZM from the CUN Airport!
Starting From US $195 Round Trip VIP Shuttle Rates
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West Coast Electric Bike Ride - Sky Reef N' Snorkel Tour |
Come join us for a unique bike tour experience in Cozumel. Our tour will take you from the hustle and bustle of downtown to beaches and places of beauty on the island. On these Cozumel bike tours, you can ride a Pedego electric bicycle along a designated tour route that will showcase the best sights along the coast Cozumel has to offer!
US $49 Per Person
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Round Trip Private Cancun Airport / PDC Ferry Pier Shuttle Service
Cozumel Deep Sea Fishing Adventure Tour
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Sherri...thank you again so very much for your fantastic website and for your excellent stories on life in Cozumel. We fellow Texans that are not fortunate enough to actually live there are able to do it through you and we are all extremely grateful...and incredibly envious! Having been an airline employee until retirement I have been lucky to have been down island over 20 times and it NEVER gets old. I thought I knew all about Cozumel, but was delighted to learn of new things and places through you and your website. Your current posting of how you came to Cozumel was so cool. You really need to work on that book! Congrats on this milestone, and continued luck and success in all you do. See you in September for our annual trip down for my birthday and Mexican Independence Day. M. Goodwin ~ Dallas, Texas
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I have only good feedback to give you - we enjoyed Punta Sur a lot, despite the beach being red flagged so no snorkeling - the water was enjoyable for a cool dip and lunch was fantastic! Our guide was very kind and explained a lot to us. The bikes were a lot of fun. A. Fioravantes (March 2016) ~ Albuquerque, NM USA
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(02/23/2019) - We just returned from a wonder trip and time at the PalMar Snorkel Beach Club. It is a smaller Beach Club and very relaxing. As Experienced Travelers, we like to share information when we find a place that works well for Families and Older Travelers. PalMar Snorkel Beach Club fits that bill. They have easy steps to the beach with a sturdy railing; which makes is much easier access for an Older Traveler and/or those traveling as a Family with Younger Children. The snorkeling is delightful with easy access into and out of the Caribbean. The staff is wonderful and they have been with PalMar Snorkel Beach Club for many years. They take great care of both their new and repeat/returning guests. The food score is 5 out of 5 and they have lockers to keep your items safe while you enjoy your time. Restrooms are clean, once again 5 out of 5 and their freshwater swimming pool/jacuzzi makes you want to never leave. The Bettgers, Experienced Travelers P. & A. Bettger ~ Portland, OR USA
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My son and I decided to avoid the cruise ship excursions for snorkeling and try Pal Mar Estate Beach Club. I read a number of reviews and figured it was worth a shot. We have gone on 4 cruises now and always done the cruise line sponsored excursions and without a hesitation this is by far the best thing we have done. Pal Mar was nice, clean, very quiet and the staff was beyond awesome. One of the most relaxing times we have had. The Pico de Gallo was fresh and hand made and fantastic....my son wont touch tomatoes and such and he ate it all up...wonderful! The snorkeling was a lot of fun and we saw tons of fish, starfish, coral, etc. and even a Moray eel. Very cool and spooky too to be honest. We had a blast and would do it again in a heartbeat. With cab fare both ways, Pal Mar admission, 4 beers for me and two sodas for my son along with chips and Pico we spent only 65$. We snorkeled for almost 4 hours....exhausted but a blast! We must have seen at least 8 excursion trips come through the area we were at and they are there maybe 45 min to an hour and gone. It would have cost us 3 times what we paid to do the ship excursion and we got to relax and snorkel all day. Can't recommend it enough and we will definitely be back when our next cruise stops in Cozumel. Thank you so much for your hospitality!! M. Schomaker-Feb. 2015 ~ Elk River, MN USA
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We spent a day @ your club while our ship was in port. What a wise choice ! The snorkeling was fantastic and your club was staffed by the warmest, kindest people that we met in Cozumel. Mauricio, Dn. Juan and your other staff made us feel comfortable and welcome . The food was delicious, the drinks great and the prices very reasonable. They almost sold us another stay right then and there. We will be back and have already posted our review on the web. Muchos Gracias ! V. Perry ~ Danbury, CT USA
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