Is Cozumel Safer Than Cancun? (By A Local)

Q: How do I get to Cozumel?

You can fly directly into Cozumel International Airport . It's a small airport but very efficient. Some people fly into Cancun and take a bus and ferry to Cozumel instead.

Q: What is the drinking age in Cancun and Cozumel?

The legal drinking age in Cozumel , Cancun, and all of Mexico is 18.

Planning a trip to Mexico and wondering if Cozumel is safer than Cancun? I’ve lived in both places, so I can give you the real story.

Both Cancun and Cozumel are popular and generally safe. But as a solo female traveler, I felt safer in Cozumel.

Here’s why, plus tips for staying safe no matter which destination you choose.

A beautiful beach scene in Cancun with several thatched-roof palapas providing shade on the sandy shore. In the background, the vivid turquoise ocean stretches out towards the horizon under a partly cloudy sky, while a few people enjoy the beach in the distance. Lush green plants frame the area, adding a touch of tropical beauty.

Is Cozumel Safer Than Cancun?

Overall, yes. Cozumel feels safer because it’s smaller, more laid-back, and has a stronger sense of community.

There’s less crime on the island, especially violent crime, and most visitors describe it as peaceful.

Cancun is still safe for travelers, especially in tourist areas, but it’s a larger city. With more people, more nightlife, and more traffic, it naturally has more opportunities for petty crime.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go. It just means you should plan with awareness.

Think about what you want from your trip. If you’re after nightlife, day trips, and lots of activity, Cancun works well. If you want calm beaches and a slower pace, Cozumel wins.

Safety in Cancun

Cancun’s reputation can be intimidating, but most visitors have no problems. Here’s what to know:

Tourist vs. Local Areas

Cancun is split into two main areas:

Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) – This strip is where most resorts sit. It’s heavily patrolled, tourist-focused, and generally feels very safe. You can walk around, enjoy nightlife, and grab taxis easily.

Downtown Cancun (El Centro) – This is where locals live and work. It’s more authentic, with great food and lower prices. It’s safe to visit during the day, but streets can feel isolated at night, especially if you’re alone.

A sweeping view of a beachfront city shows white sand curving along bright turquoise water. Resorts and hotels line the shore, bordered by lush greenery and a lagoon on the opposite side.

What Crime Looks Like

Most reported issues in Cancun are non-violent: pickpocketing, bag snatching, or taxi scams.

Violent incidents are rare and usually connected to organized crime, not tourists. That said, staying aware, especially in downtown at night, is smart.

My Cancun Experience

I lived in a small neighborhood near downtown and walked around often. During the day, I never felt unsafe.

At night, I took taxis instead of walking. The Hotel Zone always felt secure, even after dark, but I kept my bag zipped and avoided flashing cash.

Safety in Cozumel

Cozumel’s isolation works in its favor. It’s an island with one main town, so crime is easier to monitor. The vibe is slower, the crowds are smaller, and the sense of community is strong.

Why Cozumel Feels Safer

Smaller population – Fewer people means fewer opportunities for crime.
Tourism-driven economy – Locals have a stake in keeping visitors safe.
Island layout – One main town and a single highway circling the island make it easier to navigate and avoid unsafe areas.

Idyllic tropical beach with white sand, turquoise waters, palm trees, and vacationers lounging or strolling along the shoreline under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds.

My Cozumel Experience

While living in Cozumel, I walked along the waterfront at night, went out to dinner solo, and took public buses all over. I never felt uneasy.

Petty theft can happen, but it’s rare and usually outside tourist areas. Most locals are friendly and will go out of their way to help if you need directions or advice.

How to Stay Safe in Both Cancun and Cozumel

No destination is risk-free. Here are specific tips that apply to both:

1. Choose Safe Accommodations

Stick to hotels or rentals with strong reviews mentioning security.
In Cancun, the Hotel Zone is your safest bet. In Cozumel, stay in or near San Miguel (the main town).

2. Be Smart About Nightlife

Drink responsibly and know your limit.
Keep your drink with you and do not leave it unattended.
Use taxis or rideshares at night rather than walking back.

3. Protect Your Belongings

Use crossbody bags or money belts.
Leave passports and valuables in a hotel safe.
At the beach, do not leave your phone and wallet unattended.

4. Transportation Tips

Cancun has Uber. Cozumel does not. Use taxis or rent a car on the island.
If you’re driving, be cautious with parking and do not leave bags visible in the car.

5. Prepare for Emergencies

Download the Guest Assist app (for Quintana Roo). It connects you with local emergency services.
Save your hotel’s phone number and address in your phone.
Share your plans with someone at home.

6. Health and Safety

Wear mosquito repellent because dengue fever cases happen year-round.
Use sunscreen. The sun is intense even on cloudy days.
Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and water sports.

A tranquil Caribbean beach with soft white sand leading to crystal-clear turquoise waters. Gentle waves lap at the shore under a partly cloudy sky, creating a peaceful and inviting tropical scene. The calm ocean stretches to the horizon, evoking a sense of relaxation and escape.

Other Factors to Consider Beyond Safety

Safety is important, but it’s not the only factor that might sway your decision on which to choose.

The overall vibe, things to do, and what kind of vacation you want all play a big role.

This section gives you a snapshot of what each place offers so you can see how safety fits into the bigger picture.

Cancun: Busy and Full of Options

Cancun has a lively energy with huge resorts, nonstop nightlife, and plenty of tours and day trips.

You’ll find easy access to Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza, cenotes for swimming, and adventure parks like Xcaret or Xplor.

If you like having endless choices for dining and entertainment, Cancun makes that possible. The tradeoff is more crowds and a faster pace.

Cozumel: Relaxed and Nature-Focused

Cozumel is much calmer. The island is famous for its coral reefs, snorkeling, and diving, so water activities are the highlight here.

The downtown area has local restaurants and small shops, and the rest of the island is quiet beaches and nature reserves.

If you prefer a slower pace and fewer crowds, Cozumel is the better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions: Is Cozumel Safer than Cancun?

Which is safer – Cancun or Cozumel?

While both are quite safe, Cozumel is a bit safer than Cancun.

How do I get to Cancun?

You can easily fly into Cancun International Airport. Navigating the airport and going through customs is a breeze.

How do I get to Cozumel?

You can fly directly into Cozumel International Airport. It’s a small airport but very efficient. Some people fly into Cancun and take a bus and ferry to Cozumel instead.

What is the drinking age in Cancun and Cozumel?

The legal drinking age in Cozumel, Cancun, and all of Mexico is 18.

Is Cancun or Cozumel better for families?

Whether Cancun or Cozumel is better depends on what you want from your vacation. Generally, Cozumel is more laid back and a bit safer.

Split image with Cancun on the left and Cozumel on the right with a question mark. Is Cozumel safer than Cancun?

Wrap-Up: Is Cozumel Safer than Cancun?

If safety is the deciding factor, Cozumel edges out Cancun.

But if you’re choosing based on activities, vibe, or convenience, it’s worth comparing them side by side.

I’ve broken that down in detail in my guide to choosing between Cozumel and Cancun, where I cover costs, beaches, things to do, and overall atmosphere.

A great way to experience both is by taking a day trip to Cancun from Cozumel. Or the other way around. Really, it’s hard to go wrong.

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.

Is Cozumel Safer Than Cancun? (By a Local)