Cozumel is particularly known for its drift diving. There's nothing like the feeling of flying along a wall while you're not moving a muscle. Now we're talking fun!
Not to mention the margaritas. Only after diving, of course.
(If you haven't been to Cozumel since Hurricane Wilma hit in October 2005, there is no need to worry. The diving is still fantastic. Click here to read our trip report from our latestCozumel scuba diving vacation.)Scuba diving - Cozumel Mexico - it can't get much better.
There is only one town, San Miguel, on the island. San Miguel (population of 71,401 per 2005 census) is on the west side of the island, which is the developed side. The water here is calm as this side of the island faces the mainland. This is where all the snorkeling, water-skiing, etc. takes place. It is also where you will scuba in Cozumel. The east side of the island is like another world with almost no people and, usually, crashing waves. Swimming can be dangerous so be cautious here. No scuba in Cozumel here. The isolated beaches on this side, however, are great for sunbathing. You can find some great rustic beach bars to quench your thirst as you make your way from the west side to the east side. In between coasts, the interior is overgrown and scrubby. A few small Mayan ruins can be explored. Don't expect a Chichen Itza, though (or anything remotely close). Take a look at our maps of Mexico, Cozumel maps and Caribbean maps to learn more. (You might want to check out our #1 tip for cheap airfare to the Caribbean as well as our other tips for cheap airfare to help make your trip more affordable. You may also find our discussion on different types of scuba dive vacations helpful also if you planning on a scuba Cozumel trip.)The Lay of the Land
Cozumel is Mexico's largest island and is 28 miles long and 12 miles wide. Check out our Cozumel maps page to see the island.
Location
Cozumel is located about 12 miles off the coast of the Yucatan peninsulaof Mexico. It is across from Playa del Carmen and about 35 miles south of Cancun, one of the party capitals of the world.
You can now get direct flights into Cancun from the U.S. It's a reasonable 2 1/2 hour plane ride from Miami.
Alternatively, you can fly into Cancun then travel to Playa del Carmen (about a 45 minute ride). From there you can take a 25 minute ferry over to Cozumel.
Whichever way you go, it's worth it to scuba in Cozumel. It makes our list of the best places to scuba dive. Scuba diving - Cozumel Mexico - we'll be doing it again soon!
