- Shift in Cozumel’s tourism strategy from day-trippers to multiple-night stays
- Protection of the west shore reef with the government halting the fourth cruise-ship pier project following citizen protests
- Diverse activities available outside the main town, including snorkeling, exploring wild east coast beaches, and visiting Mayan ruins like San Gervasio
- Detailed recommendations for food, drink, and shopping, highlighting local and traditional businesses in San Miguel
Cozumel, a 30-mile-long island located off Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, stands as one of the world’s busiest cruise ship ports yet manages to retain an uncrowded and peaceful atmosphere away from the main piers. While the main town of San Miguel features bustling activity, the rest of the island offers diverse, tranquil experiences. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins at sites like San Gervasio, a former pilgrimage spot for the moon goddess Ixchel, where iguanas now roam. The island’s waters are ideal for snorkeling and swimming, with locations like Playa Mantarrayas offering a marked course for athletes and clear views of a sea floor populated by purple sea fans and, occasionally, green sea turtles or spotted eagle rays.
Island officials are actively working to shift the tourism focus from day-trippers to multiple-night guests, a goal reinforced by the recent government decision to halt construction of a fourth cruise-ship pier following public protests. An extended stay allows guests to fully experience the island’s culture and natural environment.
A sample itinerary highlights key locations. The west coast is perfect for sunset viewing at places like Jeanie’s, and for browsing local handicrafts at the night market in Benito Juarez Park. Dining options range from fish tacos and pizza with the invasive lionfish at Cerveceria Punta Sur to traditional seafood like pan de cazón at La Estrella. For a contrasting experience, the east coast offers a “wild side” with deserted beaches, a vast mangrove forest, and remote spots like Coconuts. Transportation is readily available through rental cars, scooters, or plentiful taxis with set rates. The underlying theme is that a longer visit reveals Cozumel’s peaceful, authentic side, which is often missed by transient cruise ship visitors.