Looking for tips for the best snorkeling in Cozumel and other things to do?
If you are looking for more information on what areas to snorkel at in Cozumel, want to find out how to get there or simply want everything taken care in an all-inclusive private snorkel tour then you’re at the right place. To help you plan your Cozumel vacation we’ve put together a small guide below on the best snorkeling and other things to do in Cozumel. In the case that you are not looking to snorkel then we put some of the top things to do in Cozumel besides snorkeling.
So, what sets Cozumel apart from other beach destinations in the area?
Cozumel Island is known for being part of the 2nd largest barrier reefs in the world! It boasts the perfect tropical weather, not as hot as Cabo but with a higher humidity. The ocean around the island is majestically beautiful, and you guessed it, warm enough for snorkeling. For those engaged in water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, Cozumel is definitely the place to come.
Check out our boats for your cozumel snorkeling options
Cozumel Boat Rental
Where Can I Snorkel in Cozumel?
Cozumel is a uniquely perfect combination of beach gateway, historic sites, and amazing attractions. Moreover, it caters to tourists who love discovering new adventurous things to try. Of course, the island wouldn’t leave out vacationists who prefer to relax at luxurious resorts.
All things considered, we must first cater to the thrill-seekers who are unafraid to try the island’s best-known activity, snorkeling. in Cozumel has been said to be a grade-A plus activity that every tourist in the area must try. Here, we are going to highlight each destination to help you choose which one to visit on your next holiday. Snorkeling en cozumel is an activity you cannot miss on, if you are in the area.
Best Snorkeling in Cozumel
El Cielo Cozumel
Reviews from past visitors have been raving about the marine life found in El Cielo. Snorkel here and you will definitely see some amazing starfish, stingrays, and a variety of fishes. El Cielo is a massive sandbar with about ten to fifteen feet shallow turquoise and clear water.
Palancar Reef
Palancar reef sits beautifully in about eighty feet of water, a popular diving spot for snorkel and scuba enthusiasts. It’s gorgeous formations and abundant marine life brings divers to this area. You’ll be able to observe colorful fish, corals, sponges, turtles and more in their natural habitat.
Columbia Reef
Columbia reef is a popular snorkeling location toward the southern end of Cozumel, off the island’s west coast. Relatively shallow, the waters run only about 25-feet deep. This will be able to make you see the vibrant marine life, especially the ever-popular nurse sharks.
Chankanaab National Park
Chankanaab National Park is clearly the most popular attraction in Cozumel. The reason behind this is the beach’s location. Conveniently located in just a ten-minute taxi ride from the ever-busy and bustling cruise ship terminal. It’s a favorite for cruise ship passengers, day-trippers, beach lovers and snorkel and scuba enthusiasts looking to swim with manatees and dolphins.
Cozumel Palace
Cozumel Palace will take ultimately your breath away! This all-inclusive resort is ideal for families, couples and adventure travelers who love diving and snorkeling. Perfect for those looking for privacy and also near to the shopping establishments. You wouldn’t believe that this resort is about roughly ten minutes away from the nearest shopping hub!
Paradise Reef
If you are not especially fond of the overcrowded shore excursions, then Paradise reef should be your destination. Their night dive is more popular for tourists, so if you’re brave enough for this activity, set up your gear and book a tour.
Sunset Beach and Sand Dollar Beach
Sunset Beach and Sand dollar beaches boast of an amazing reef and incredible diversity. Perfect for your snorkeling experience, you’ll be able to dive with amberjacks, stingrays, and moray eels. We recommend this destination for beginner snorkelers and divers.
Villa Blanca
Villa Blanca is probably one of the busiest dive and snorkel destinations due to traffic. That is why there are quite a number of reviews that recommend against touring here. Of course, you wouldn’t really know unless you try. So if you have ever been in the area, share your experiences in the comment section below.
Fiesta Americana Cozumel All Inclusive
If you are looking for upscale and family-friendly accommodations on Cozumel’s calm southwestern shore? Then, Fiesta Americana Cozumel All Inclusive resort should be your only choice. Moreover, if you want nice snorkeling just steps away from your beach recliner, then this resort will work fine for you.
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Now that you know some of the best areas to snorkel at in Cozumel, how do you get there? Below you’ll find out how to get there, how much it costs, options for private tours and other things to do besides snorkeling.
How much is the Ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel?
It doesn’t cost much actually. A luxury ferry is 200 pesos per adult and 130 pesos per child. The ferry at Calica Port, south of Playa del Carmen is 500 pesos each way. So it is fairly priced for frequently traveled tourists.
How long is the ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel?
The ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel is about 45 minutes or 20 minutes on the new luxury ferry.
How deep is Palancar Reef?
Palancar is perfectly suited for a snorkeling activity, just about 50 to 110 feet (15m to 34 m).
Are there private snorkeling tours?
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Yes, Playa Yachting offers private snorkeling tours bound for Cozumel. You can get more information about our tours by clicking the following link: Cozumel Charter Yachts. Our all-inclusive tour packages include an open bar and food buffet, and snorkeling gear is of course provided. There is also extra entertainment like a Karaoke machine and a full attending staff! Now isn’t that awesome?
Moreover, we also offer an exclusive booze cruise that provides a high energy social experience. Have fun partying with all your friends and make the vacation one you could never forget!
Where should I go to Cozumel and what are some things to do besides snorkeling?
Faro Celerain eco-park
Explore over one thousand hectares of Faro Celarain’s ecological reserve. Uniquely enclosing a variety of natural wonders like coastal sand dunes, mangrove forests, reefs and lagoons systems, and the Island’s most gorgeous beaches and reefs. We recommend visiting the Eco Observation Tower overlooking the lagoon, have fun exploring!
Boat and Yacht Tours (with Playa Yachting)
In addition to snorkeling tours, Playa Yachting provides you with the perfect yachting experience as you explore picturesque beaches in Cozumel. You will also get to visit the fascinating coastal cities, shop and dine authentic local cuisine. Our guests leave satisfied in every tour they’ve been to as we give our best to make their luxury experience come to life.
Shop for Arts and Crafts
Silver, Corals and other locally crafted souvenirs seem to be the most popular selling items to be brought back home. We highly recommend you check out Sergio’s Silver from Taxco. If you have heard of Taxco, Mexico it is famous in Mexico for being the capital for silver in the country. If you love quality silver pieces then, this is the place to go.
For those looking for a lovely local gallery to buy enchanting pieces of art to bring home, visit, Gallery Azul in Colonia Centro. Check out candle-lit pieces, watercolor paintings, sculptures, engrave glasses and more!
Tour a Lighthouse
Lighthouse tours in Cozumel has been gaining popularity too, especially for the cruise and charter yacht and catamaran crowd. Faro Celerain and Punta Molas lighthouse tours have a great reputation with extremely positive reviews.
The Faro Celerain lighthouse has 135 steps for you to walk on to reach the zenith. If you can make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with the amazing views of the island and the ocean view from the lighthouse. The perfect setting for taking photos of the view or just selfies.
You’ll have to visit the northern tip of Cozumel to get spectacular views from the Punta Molas lighthouse. There’s a maritime museum in the base of the lighthouse and is worth a look through as it gives awesome history. There is also an assortment of souvenir shops around so you can get your shopping done.
Experience a Temazcal
We have featured a temazcal experience in our Cancun blog recently. And you can also get that activity on your list if you visit Cozumel. Bask in the warm 140 degrees Steam Lodge with ritual followed by a dip in the waters to wash away the stress. Emerge re-born and become a happy and deep-thinking new person in this once in a lifetime cultural and spiritual experience!
Visit Mayan Ruins (San Gervasio ruins)
Do you want to know where ancient Mayan women paid tribute to Ixchel goddess of love and fertility? You’ll learn how the Mayans lived, their history and see the historic structures in this area.
Chocolate Tour
Chocoholics we haven’t forgotten about you! We know you’ll love these places that we are about to recommend.
The Mayan Cacao company is the place to visit if you want to know how Mayans made their traditional chocolate. There’s also an interactive demonstration and samples of chocolates for you to try.
If you want to visit a small family-owned chocolate factory, check out the KaoKao Chocolate Factory Tour. Learn the history on cocoa as well as how the Mayans used cocoa. You’ll actually able to sample a variety of Mexican wines paired with local handmade chocolates and all the while making your own souvenir bar of chocolate the way Mayans did.
Go to a beach club
If you want to tour beaches in Cozumel that feels like your very own private beach, then don’t forget to check out these private and exclusive beach clubs.
Get great food, drinks, and service at Nachi Cocom. You won’t be bombarded with vendors and you won’t have trouble finding a chair with shade right on the beach.
Buccano Beach Club is only about a 15-minute taxi ride north on the coast of Cozumel. So, you wouldn’t have to travel far to this cool beach club. There is an entrance fee of $20 USD. The rate is quite expensive but, it’s all-inclusive for the use of their facilities, snorkel equipment, and your own snorkel guide.
Paradise Beach Club has a $3.00 admission fee to the beach and $10.00 minimum consumption on food, drinks and the use of other amenities. Your walk between the trees to a beautiful sandy beach with more seating and umbrellas only takes less than a minute. It’s perfect for families since they have a kid “water park”.