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Cozumel, Mexico is one of the most popular cruise ports in the Caribbean. Off the coast of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this 34-mile long island is home to two cruise terminals and can have up to eight cruise ships docked each day.
As an avid cruiser, I have been to Cozumel a handful of times. It is one of my top ports to continually come back to because of the wide range of options the island provides. From exploring the island as a family to partying with friends, there is something for every type of cruiser.
Here are my top picks to see and do when visiting Cozumel, Mexico.
- Shop Duty Free
- I always make time for shopping in Cozumel. If you are a lover of fine jewelry or designer watches, there is no better place to shop than the Caribbean. The duty free prices and ability to haggle make getting a deal both fun and very common. Both jewelry chains and local boutique stores are found in the port shopping district, which is accessible from both cruise terminals. If you choose not to venture out into town for shopping, each cruise terminal has select jewelry and watch stores located steps away from the ship.
- I always take advantage of the duty free prices and buy liquor to bring home. Somehow, tequila bought in Mexico ALWAYS tastes – or maybe that’s just me. But make sure to read the rules of your cruise ship as to how much liquor you can bring back.
- Buy some real Mexican vanilla!!! Trust me.
- It wouldn’t be a vacation without some sort of souvenir, and Cozumel is full of authentic Mexican glass, dishes, and, of course, sombreros. Since you’ll need something to put all that tequila in, follow my lead and go pick yourself up a margarita glass and pitcher set from Los Cinco Soles. Here, you’ll find the best Mexican-inspired gifts for yourself and loved ones back home.
- Eat at Panchos Backyard
- Talk about authentic Mexican food. Stop in here for lunch after a morning excursion or after your shopping trip to Los Cinco Soles (located right next door). Make sure to get a margarita!
- Relax at Paradise Beach
- This is the most popular family beach, and one I have personally been to. A white sand beach, heated pool, an aqua park, snorkel and kayak rentals, and an onsite bar and restaurant will keep the entire family entertained all day. Make sure you try the pico de gallo at the bar! It was so good, we emailed them for the recipe when we returned home.
- Snuba Dive
- Have you always wanted to scuba dive, but don’t have the time to get certified? Well Snuba is a hybrid of snorkeling and scuba diving where you can go down as far as one atmosphere while an instructor carries and monitors your tanks. We tested out our Snuba skills on our last visit to Cozumel. We were able to swim right off shore to an active reef and still had time in the day for shopping and lunch at Panchos.
- Party at Fat Tuesday’s or Señor Frogs
- Ready to let loose with a cold drink? Well, Cozumel has options. My favorite is the Señor Frogs located right next to the cruise terminal with stairs walking down to the ocean. You can drink, dance, and swim all in one place.
- Rent a Jeep for the Day
- Explore the island on your own with open air jeep rentals. A very popular option among those wanting the privacy of their own adventure.
- Vist Chankanaab National Park
- This beautiful beach adventure park will keep you entertained all day. You can spend the day snorkeling or diving, playing with dolphins in their dolphin encounter, zip-lining, or relaxing on the beach. You can book this excursion through the cruise line or through on island excursion company.
So pack your bags and get ready to set sail to Cozumel Mexico!
Te veo allí (see you there).