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Drinking Age in Cozumel: Laws, Tips, and What Tourists Miss

BySherry Arkfeld

Are you planning a trip to Mexico and wondering about the legal drinking age in Cozumel? You’re in the right place.

I’ve been living (and drinking) in Cozumel for the past year. I’ve got all the facts you need.

The short answer: The legal drinking age in Cozumel, and all of Mexico, is 18.

But there’s more you need to know. Believe it or not, there are specific days and times when you can purchase alcohol.

You also need to know the rules about drinking in public.

But hey, it’s not all rules and regulations. I’ve got some pro tips for drinking safely in Mexico. Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite spots to grab a drink.

So, grab your ID, and let’s dive in. I’m your one-stop shop for navigating Cozumel’s drinking culture like a pro.

Two margarita glasses garnished with lime wedges sit on a wooden outdoor table, each on a white napkin. The drinks are in a lively open-air setting with bright orange and white buildings in the background, suggesting a tropical vacation vibe. One drink has a black straw, and palm trees are visible in the distance.
Two-for-one margaritas? Yes, please!

Drinking Age in Cozumel

The legal drinking age in Cozumel is 18. This is the same throughout all of Mexico.

Anyone aged 18 and over is allowed to buy and consume alcohol, no matter where they’re from.

It doesn’t matter that you have to be 21 in the United States. Once you’re in Mexico, you’re legal as long as you’re 18.

Drinking in Public in Cozumel

Throughout all of Mexico, drinking in public is illegal. There are some exceptions in many places.

For example, during festivals like Carnaval, alcohol may be sold and consumed on the streets in Cozumel.

With that being said, Cozumel seems to be pretty relaxed about this law. I see tourists walking around drinking beer pretty much every day.

I have personally bought a giant coconut margarita to go, although I didn’t drink it until I got home. I’m such a rule follower.

Cozumel is very tourist-centric. If you’re not causing any trouble, you’ll probably be fine, especially if you’re obviously a tourist.

People visiting on a cruise seem to get away with a lot. The authorities know you’re leaving soon.

However, if you’re super drunk and loud or causing problems, you are very likely to be arrested.

The bottom line: drinking in public is illegal in Cozumel. You can make your own decision on what to do with this information.

Two black speckled mugs filled with frozen coconut margaritas sit on a table with a red circular logo, topped with fluffy coconut shavings. The scene is set on a sunny street lined with palm trees, pastel buildings, and parked motorcycles, creating a relaxed tropical vibe in Cozumel.
Coconut margarita – available to go!

Days and Times You Can and Can’t Buy Alcohol in Cozumel

Mexico has some peculiar laws about purchasing alcohol from stores. These laws vary from one city to the next.

I’ve found a lot of conflicting information on the actual times alcohol is sold in Cozumel. Here’s the best information I have about alcohol sales in Cozumel:

Buying Alcohol in Stores:

This includes grocery stores as well as convenience and liquor stores.

  • Monday – Saturday: Stores sell alcohol from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.
  • Sunday: 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Buying Alcohol in Restaurants and Bars

  • Restaurants: Restaurants generally serve alcohol until midnight.
  • Bars: Bars and nightclubs are generally allowed to serve alcohol until 3:00 a.m.

Election Days

There is a Mexican law called Ley Seca (Dry Law) which prevents alcohol sales for up to 72 hours prior to an election.

The exceptions are in tourist areas and resorts. It’s not too clear what constitutes the “tourist area” in Cozumel.

It appears that the main square and the restaurants along Melgar fall into the tourist area. You might double-check before you head out if you want to order a drink.

Drinking and Driving Laws in Mexico

While the authorities in Cozumel may be relaxed about some things, they are very strict about drinking and driving.

The blood alcohol limit in Cozumel is .08%, the same as in the US.

Every week, there are alcohol-related accidents, often involving a scooter and a tourist. There’s really no reason to drink and drive in Cozumel. Taxis are plentiful and cheap.

A large wine glass filled with layered sangria—deep red on top and bright yellow-orange on the bottom—sits on a wooden restaurant table in Cozumel. The background features a cozy interior with framed artwork, flags, and hanging plants, capturing a colorful and eclectic tropical vibe.
My sangria at Del Sur Parrilla Argentina in Cozumel.

Tips For Drinking Safely in Cozumel

You’re on vacation, you’re feeling the vibe, and the beverages are flowing. It’s easy to get carried away, but safety should always be a priority. It’s important to know what to do and what not to do in Cozumel.

Here’s how to do it right:

Know Your Limits
First things first: know your limits. Alcohol can hit you differently in a tropical climate, especially if you’re not used to the heat and humidity. So, start slow and gauge how you’re feeling.

Stay Hydrated
This is a big one. The sun and the sea can dehydrate you faster than you think. Always alternate between alcohol and water. It’s a simple trick that can save you from a nasty hangover or worse.

Quality Over Quantity
When in Mexico, you might be tempted by the variety of local spirits and cocktails. Go for quality over quantity. Stick to well-known brands or places that come highly recommended. This minimizes the risk of consuming counterfeit or contaminated alcohol.

Don’t Drink and Drive
I can’t stress this enough. The laws around drinking and driving in Mexico are strict. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver or take a taxi.

Keep an Eye on Your Drink
Always keep an eye on your drink. It’s a basic safety tip that applies everywhere, not just in Mexico. Never leave your drink unattended, and if you’re unsure about it, it’s better to get a new one.

Local Customs and Etiquette
Understanding local drinking customs can also help you navigate the scene more safely. For example, in Cozumel, it’s common to pay as you order rather than running a tab in a bar.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll not only have a great time but a safe one too.

Large margarita glass filled with a frozen yellow drink sits on a red and white tablecloth. Nearby are a basket of tortilla chips, bottles of hot sauce, and a bowl of salsa in a casual open-air restaurant setting.

Wrap-Up: Legal Drinking Age in Cozumel

So yes, the legal drinking age in Cozumel is 18. It’s one of the things that surprises a lot of visitors, especially Americans.

But being legal doesn’t mean you can go wild. Cozumel might be laid-back, but it’s still a community that values respect and safety—especially when it comes to tourists.

Enjoy your margaritas, sip your cervezas, and soak up the Caribbean sun. Just be smart about it.

Want to sip a drink with your toes in the sand? I’ve got a whole post on the best beach bars in Cozumel.

Related Posts

Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips

Do I need travel insurance?

YES. No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing. They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company. They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.

You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, check out Hostel World. If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO, which is often cheaper with more options.

What do I pack for Mexico?

 My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.

What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Probably Not. U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa check the Mexican Consulate’s website.
For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa.

Sherry Arkfeld is a digital nomad, travel blogger, and copywriter living her dream of being able to work from anywhere in the world while exploring new places with her little dog, Shelby. Sherry is passionate about sharing her experiences to help other travelers and digital nomads. Sherry and Shelby are currently traveling slowly around Mexico with plans to eventually go (almost) everywhere.