Planning a day trip to Cozumel while in Mexico?
In this guide, you’ll find information about Cozumel, how to get there, and more importantly, how to organize the perfect day trip.
We’ll discuss the best things to do in Cozumel so that you can plan a fun day trip.
That said, if you wish to stay longer than one day, you’ll find plenty of things to do to keep you entertained during your stay.
Thinking of staying in Cozumel longer than one day? Read our guide to explore the best places to stay in Cozumel.
Where Is Cozumel?
Cozumel is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea only a ferry ride away from Playa del Carmen.
Looking at the map, we are talking about the eastern coast of the Yucatan peninsula.
You can easily reach Cozumel by plane or by ferry.
Let’s see how you can organize the perfect day trip to Cozumel.
Day Trip To Cozumel
If you wish to make the most of your day in Cozumel, we recommend you start your day trip from Playa del Carmen.
If you’re arriving from Cancun or Tulum, the journey will be longer and as a result, you’ll have less time to enjoy Cozumel.
How To Get To Cozumel From Playa Del Carmen
To get to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen, you’ll have to take a ferry.
Wondering how far is Cozumel from Playa del Carmen? It’s only about 40 minutes away, which is about 10km away from the mainland.
We have a full guide explaining exactly how to get to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen. So, we invite you to read it.
Alternatively, you could organize a day trip with a tour company.
Although, we believe the process to reach Cozumel is fairly simple, so you can organize it yourself without any issues.
How To Get Around Cozumel
Once you arrive in Cozumel, we recommend you rent a scooter or a jeep to tour the island.
As the most beautiful places are not accessible on foot, you’ll be able to see more of the island if you have your own transport.
You’ll find plenty of rental companies next to the pier when arriving in Cozumel.
We suggest you browse your options in person or book it in advance if you’re visiting Cozumel during the high season.
When we visited Cozumel, we opted for a jeep as we were a group of four people.
We had to book in advance because most companies were booked out.
How Many Days In Cozumel
If you’re wondering how many days in Cozumel are needed, I think you can enjoy the island in one day. That said, your Cozumel day trip is going to be packed, but fun!
If you’d rather relax more, and take it easy, you may want to stay longer.
For example, you could spend a whole day in a beach club, a day touring the island, and a day snorkeling around the island.
To help you make your decision, we listed the best things to do in Cozumel below.
Pick the ones you’re interested in and figure out how many days you’ll need in Cozumel.
Staying In Cozumel?
Make sure to book a stay in one of the top hotels in Cozumel, Mexico.
Best hostel: Hostel Auikyani
Best hotel: Hacienda Boutique Mi Case Tu Casa
Best resort: Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort and Spa
Best Things To Do In Cozumel
If you’re wondering what to do in Cozumel, you’re at the right place.
Keep reading to learn more about the best things to do in Cozumel.
Rent A Scooter Or A Jeep
As we mentioned above, we recommend renting a scooter or a jeep so that you can freely go around the island. Many places we recommend on this list are far from the pier.
After all, it’s not every day we drive a scooter or a jeep, so it’s always a fun thing to do when traveling.
Note that you can also book a guided jeep tour if you want to experience something different!
Visit Punta Sur Eco Park
One of the best things to do in Cozumel is to visit Punta Sur Eco Park. In the eco-park, you’ll see a lagoon where you may be able to spot crocodiles.
Climb the tower to enjoy the views, walk around to admire the ruins, and end the day on the beach where you can even do a bit of snorkeling.
When we visited Cozumel, we spend a few hours in Punta Sur Eco Park, and it was our favorite area on the island.
As it’s a bit further, it was less busy than places closer to the pier.
Snorkel In Cozumel
Cozumel is known for its snorkeling spots and scuba-diving opportunities. We recommend you read our guide about the best snorkeling spots in Cozumel or simply book a guided snorkeling tour.
You can bring your own snorkeling gear, or book a tour that can arrange equipment for you.
Note that when we visited Cozumel in October 2021, there was a lot of jellyfish around – so keep an eye out for them when you’re in the water.
Explore Multiple Beaches
Cozumel offers lots of nice beaches to travelers. It’s recommended to swim on the western side of the island because there’s less current than on the eastern side of the island.
That said, if you’re comfortable in the water, you can make your own decision.
We suggest you read our guide to the best beaches in Cozumel so that you can pick the ones that interest you the most.
Some beaches are ideal for relaxing, snorkeling, or for entertaining kids.
Relax In A Beach Club
If you’d rather relax, consider going to a beach club. Some of them have all-inclusive formula so they are great options for those who want to go to one place only.
Read more about the best beach clubs in Cozumel to pick the one that suits your needs.
You’ll find plenty of beach clubs not too far from the pier, but you’ll still need to rent a jeep or a scooter to reach most of them.
Visit Isla De Pasion
If you want to get away from the crowds, consider a day trip to Isla de Pasion (Passion Island).
Note that you’ll need a day pass to enter the island, but you’ll find white sand beaches as well as beautiful turquoise water.
As this island is private, you basically get access to the buffet and open bars as part of the daily pass.
To get to Isla de Pasion, you can organize a day trip there from the main Cozumel pier. You’ll need to take a jet boat to reach Passion Island.
How To Get To Playa Del Carmen From Cozumel
Once you’re done exploring Cozumel, head back to the pier and take the ferry back to Playa del Carmen.
We recommend buying a round-trip ticket at the beginning of your day trip to Cozumel to avoid having to wait in line again to buy a new ticket.
Make sure to check the ferry schedule and head to the pier at least 30 minutes before departure.
Final Thoughts On Cozumel Day Trip
Cozumel is a fun day trip from Playa del Carmen, but if you think one day is not enough to make the most of the island, simply stay longer.
Two or three days in Cozumel should be enough to do everything you wish to try around the island.
That said, as Cozumel is a safe destination, many travelers decide to spend even more time there.
We hope we were able to help you plan an exciting Cozumel itinerary.
Not sure if it’s the right season to visit Cozumel? Learn about the best time to visit Cozumel.
