Cozumel is Mexico's largest Island and is located just 12 miles off the southern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, across from nearby Playa Del Carmen.   The size of the Island is approximately 189 square miles.  The average annual temperature is a pleasant 80 degrees and the local currency is the Mexican Peso.  Cozumel is known for it's underwater experiences.   From snorkeling over the coral reefs, to cave diving or exploring the dramatic cliff which plunges straight down some 5000 feet.

A popular place to snorkel or take in the sun is Chankanaab beach, lagoon & park located just a short cab ride from the Pier located on the west side of the Island facing the Mainland.  The East side of the Island is more barren and desolate due to the constant winds pounding the rocky coast.  The entrance fee is minimal.  While snorkeling at Chankanaab, you are almost sure to see beautiful tropical fish darting through coral reef.  If you bring any type of fish food with you, beware that the fish are plentiful and some times a bit aggressive when looking for food. Getting nipped by a fish is not uncommon.  Besides the wonderful reef, you'll also find an underwater statue and a small wreck to snorkel above. Other activities include parasailing, jet skiing and the Big Banana ride.  A small group of people hold on to a large inflatable banana raft while a speed boat pulls them across the water.  If you prefer to stay dry but would still like to see a variety of aquatic species, take a stroll past the lagoon.  There is also a botanical garden which is very tropical.  Within the garden you'll discover a miniature reconstruction of a Mayan temple.

This area of Mexico is a very popular place to tour several Mayan ruins. On the Isle of Cozumel are the San Gervasio ruins.  If you never have had the opportunity to view any of the Mayan ruins, then this tour will be worthwhile.  However if you have visited Tulum (located just south of Playa Del Carmen)  or Chi Chen Itza (located a short plane ride away), you may feel a bit let down because the other sites have much more to offer.

Downtown Cozumel or San Miguel has a variety of shops that offer typical Mexican clothing, jewelry and souvenirs.  Most of the shops are located along the waterfront and are usually open into the evening, perhaps as late as 10 pm.  There are also many nice casual restaurants where you may enjoy the local cuisine.  There is also a ferry that departs from downtown to take passengers over to the mainland (Playa Del Carmen).

SNORKEL INFO