Unlocking Cozumel's Hidden Gems: The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Shore Excursions
Curated By
Gillian Spatz
Curator’s statement
Embark on a journey of discovery in Cozumel, Mexico, where pristine beaches, ancient ruins and vibrant culture beckon cruise travelers to explore its shores. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to exploring Mayan archaeological sites steeped in history, Cozumel offers a myriad of shore excursion options sure to satisfy every traveler's wanderlust. Join us as we delve into the top cruise shore excursions in Cozumel, uncovering the island's best-kept secrets and must-see attractions.
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Where to stay in port
InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort
Bright beachfront property with breezy rooms offering views of the Caribbean Sea.
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Things to do in port
All You Can Eat at the Beach
Enjoy endless fun under the Caribbean sun at Playa Mia in Cozumel, featuring a huge beach, water rides, kayaks, pedal boats, a volleyball court, a delicious buffet and an open bar with tropical drinks, plus included transfers.
Horse Riding and Beach Break
Embark on a thrilling horseback ride through Cozumel's jungle trails, stopping at a Mayan ruin and the historic ghost town, then enjoy a relaxing beach break with opportunities for shopping, photos and breathtaking views.
Cozumel Food Tour
Explore Mexico's world-famous cuisine on a fun, cultural tour featuring authentic fish tacos, cochinita pibil and a guacamole-making session, capped off with a visit to a homemade Mexican ice cream store offering delightful flavors like Mayan dark chocolate and tequila.
Cozumel Mayan Village Jeep Tour
Experience the fullest of Cozumel on a sustainable jeep tour with certified guides, visiting the ancient San Gervasio archaeological site and one of the last Mayan communities, then relax on a stunning beach with turquoise waters and white sands.
Parasailing
Get an adrenaline rush with a safe and exhilarating parasailing adventure in Cozumel, enjoying 15 to 20 minutes of air time and convenient pick-up from most hotels and downtown locations.
Glass-bottom Boat Snorkeling
Embark on a thrilling snorkeling adventure at Cozumel's Palancar Reef, diving into crystal-clear waters to witness stunning marine life and relax at the secluded El Cielo Sandbar, renowned for its starfish and pristine beauty.
Discover Scuba Diving - 1 Tank Shore Dive
Experience a quick and easy introduction to scuba diving with PADI's Discover Scuba Diving program, featuring an underwater classroom session, basic equipment handling and a complete dive at a shallow, vibrant reef.
Discover Scuba Diving - 2 Tanks Boat Dive
Embark on a thrilling Discover Scuba Diving adventure at Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, featuring theoretical and practical training, two separate dives exploring remote reefs and a boat ride with lunch included. Dive into the underwater world with experienced instructors, limited group sizes and maximum depths of 40 feet (12 meters) for a safe and unforgettable experience.
Places to eat & drink in port
Cozumel has a variety of restaurants near the cruise port that offer delicious local cuisine and international flavors. Here are a few options:
Pancho's Backyard: Located right by the cruise port, Pancho's Backyard offers authentic Mexican dishes in a vibrant and colorful setting.
La Choza Cozumel: This restaurant is also close to the port and serves traditional Mexican fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
Guido's Restaurant: If you're craving Italian cuisine, Guido's is a popular choice. It's a short walk from the port and offers a diverse menu of pasta, seafood and more.
Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville: For a fun and lively atmosphere, head to Margaritaville. It's known for its tropical drinks, live music and American-style fare, and it's conveniently located near the port.
La Mission: Another great option for Mexican food, La Mission is a short distance from the port and offers tasty dishes like fajitas, tacos and ceviche.
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Travel Advisor
Gillian Spatz
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Cozumel. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Barbados: A Gem of the Caribbean Where Adventure Meets Paradise.