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One Day in Cozumel: What to See, Do, and Eat

BySherry Arkfeld Updated

Only have one day in Cozumel? Whether you’re cruising in for a few hours or hopping over from Playa del Carmen, you can see a lot in a short time.

I lived here for nearly two years, and I’ve got you covered with a plan that’s flexible, fun, and realistic.

This one-day itinerary includes some of my favorite spots. You’ll get great snorkeling, tasty food, scenic beaches, and a few cultural gems.

It’s designed so you can get a real feel for the island without stressing over logistics.

One Day Cozumel Itinerary

To make planning even easier for you, I’ve put together a full-day itinerary.

I’ve split the day up into morning, afternoon, and evening. You’ve got several options for each time slot, so choose the ones that sound best for you.

A quiet street in Cozumel, Mexico, is lined with colorful buildings and decorated with vibrant papel picado banners strung overhead. Large potted palms add a tropical touch to the festive yet peaceful atmosphere.

Morning Adventures (6 am – 1 pm)

Start with a Local Breakfast

Cozumel has many great restaurants for breakfast. Here are some of my favorites:

  • Jeanie’s Beach Club is a great spot if you’re coming in through Punta Langosta. You’ll get ocean views, Mexican egg dishes, and a chance to stick your toes in the sand. Jeanie’s also has solid snorkeling right from the shore.
  • Palmera’s is just across from the ferry terminal. Expect good food and slightly higher prices. You’re mostly paying for location.
  • Want something more local? Walk four blocks to Mercado Municipal, where you’ll find small food stalls serving up breakfast to locals. It’s one of the most authentic spots in town.
The exterior of Palmeras restaurant in Cozumel features a wood-framed glass facade, a palm tree logo above the name in bold red letters, and a pink ribbon symbol displayed below. Potted palm trees and a tall trunk in the foreground enhance the tropical, welcoming vibe.

Head to the Beach

If you’re already at Jeanie’s, you can linger here and snorkel. The beach is rocky, which makes it great for fish spotting.

If you’re ready for more adventure, grab a quick taxi to Buccanos Beach Club or Paradise Beach Cozumel.

  • Buccanos has fantastic food and some of the best snorkeling on the island. It’s quieter and more upscale. Just note they’re closed Mondays.
  • Paradise Beach is great for families or groups who want lots of activities like kayaks, massages, and drinks. It’s best to book ahead, especially if you’re visiting during cruise season.

If you’re into diving, Cozumel is famous for it. A single-tank morning dive is possible if you’re here early enough. I’ve written a full guide to the best Cozumel reefs for diving and snorkeling.

Two wooden beach chairs placed on white sand, facing a calm, clear ocean. The sky above is a vivid blue with a few scattered clouds, creating a tranquil beach scene.

Afternoon Explorations (1 pm – 6 pm)

After lunch at the beach club or back in town, it’s time to see a different side of Cozumel.

Option 1: Take a Tour

If you’re short on time or just want to relax and be guided, a half-day tour is a smart choice. You can:

  • Book a snorkeling tour to El Cielo and El Cielito, two stunning spots you can only reach by boat. These are your best bet for seeing sea turtles and stingrays.
  • Cozumel Museum is just north of the ferry terminal (see on map). It’s well done with exhibits on island history and art. The rooftop café is a good place to rest with a view.
The front entrance of the Museo de la Isla de Cozumel features a cream-colored building with arched doorways, a central staircase, and a palm tree swaying in the wind. Several parked cars line the street, and festive banners decorate the museum facade.
  • Want something unique? Take the Atlantis Submarine Tour. You’ll descend 100 feet below the surface to see coral, fish, and a sunken ship. It’s not cheap, but it’s a memorable experience and good for non-swimmers.
  • Wander through the Mercado Municipal if you missed it earlier. You can shop for handmade items, spices, or pick up a cold drink.

Option 2: Explore the Wild Side

Want more freedom? Rent a car or hire a driver and head to the rugged east side of the island, often called the wild side. It’s undeveloped, scenic, and quiet, with strong surf and few crowds.

There’s no electricity, but you’ll find beach bars like Coconuts and Chen Rio serving cold drinks and fresh seafood.

Take cash because most places don’t take cards. This part of the island feels completely different from the west side.

A sandy beach lined with colorful wooden lounge chairs under the shade of tall palm trees. In the background, a beach club with thatched-roof structures and people can be seen.

Evening Wrap-Up (6 pm onwards)

If you don’t have to return to your cruise ship, stick around for a great dinner. Cozumel has so many great choices. Here are my favorites:

  • Chardonnay: Chardonnay is a charming restaurant a couple of blocks from the ocean. They have Mexican, Italian, and seafood, and it is fantastic. I’ve never had a bad meal at Chardonnay.
  • Portosal: For ocean views, Portosal is a great choice. It’s next to Punta Langosta, right on the water.
  • Casa Mission: Casa Mission is often said to have the best Mexican food in town. There’s also La Mission, which is right downtown. Both are good, but Casa Mission is a bit better.
  • Casa Denis: Casa Denis is right in the main square. They have great Mexican and seafood. Take cash because they don’t accept credit cards.

Take a Walk Along the Malecon

The Malecon is the walkway along the ocean. It’s the perfect place for an after-dinner walk.

You can get some dessert from a street vendor selling churros. Or try marquesitas, a delicious crepe-like pastry filled with fruit, Nutella, or chocolate.

Or for a final drink on the island, stop into one of the bars facing the ocean. The Thirsty Cougar and Chili Tequila are great options for a nightcap with great views.

A serene sunset over the ocean, with the sun partially hidden behind a gently swaying palm tree. The sky is tinged with warm hues of orange and pink, reflecting off the calm water below.

Getting to Cozumel and Getting Around

Arriving in Cozumel is part of the adventure, whether you’re coming by cruise ship or taking a ferry from the mainland.

Arriving by Cruise Ship

Cozumel has three cruise terminals, each with its own personality:

Punta Langosta: This is the pier closest to downtown San Miguel (Cozumel’s main town). Cruise lines that dock here include MSC, Disney, Virgin, Viking, and Norwegian.

International Cruise Terminal (Also called SSA): Situated a bit further from downtown, this terminal is a popular stop for cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean often dock here.

Puerta Maya Terminal: This terminal is owned by Carnival Corporation and primarily serves Carnival cruise ships. This includes Carnival’s sister lines of Princess and Holland America.

Note that sometimes ships will dock at different piers. I’ve seen Royal Caribbean dock at Puerta Maya. Be sure to check with your cruise line to verify where you’ll be docking.

There will be taxis lined up outside each port. No matter where your ship docks, you’ll be a short ride to all of the island’s attractions.

A large cruise ship anchored in the turquoise waters near the shore, with a sandy beach and palm tree in the foreground. The sky is clear, adding to the tropical and serene atmosphere.

Arriving by Ferry

If you’re coming from the mainland, ferries run frequently between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. The trip offers stunning views and a smooth transition to island life, dropping you off in the heart of San Miguel (see on map).

There are three ferry companies: Winjet, Ultramar, and Xcaret Xailing. One of the three leaves every half hour starting at 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Xcaret Xailing is a newer addition. It leaves on the half hour. Their ferries are sleek and new and allow pets.

Winjet and Ultramar leave on alternating hours. They are quite similar, so just choose whichever one is leaving when you get there. You can buy your tickets in advance, but it’s not necessary.

Note that each of the ferries is independent, so tickets for one won’t work on another. I prefer to buy my ticket when I arrive for whichever ferry is leaving next.

There have been a few occasions since I’ve been living in Cozumel when the weather was too bad for the ferries to operate. This is most often caused by really strong winds, which can happen at any time during the year.

A ferry terminal on a partly cloudy day, with a yellow and blue ferry docked nearby. In the foreground, waves gently crash onto the rocky shoreline, while the terminal building stands prominently in the background.

Getting Around

Once you’re on the island, there are several ways to navigate and explore:

  • Rental Cars: There are several rental agencies near the ferry terminal and cruise ports. Unfortunately, you can’t rent golf carts on the island.
  • Taxis: There is no Uber in Cozumel, but taxis are abundant and reasonably priced. They’re ideal for direct trips to specific attractions or for a more relaxed itinerary. Be sure to agree on a fare before you get in.
  • Walking: Many of Cozumel’s attractions are within walking distance. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.

Insider Tip: While scooter rentals are widely available, I don’t recommend them. Cozumel has had more than its share of scooter accidents, even among experienced riders..

Essential Tips for a Day in Cozumel

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Currency and Tipping

  • While many places in Cozumel accept US dollars, you’ll usually get a better deal using Mexican pesos.
  • Many places in Cozumel, especially smaller businesses, do not accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing pesos.
  • If you use US dollars, make sure any US bills are in perfect condition. They won’t accept money with rips or tears.
  • Tipping is customary and appreciated in Cozumel. A general guideline is to tip 10-15% at restaurants and cafes. Don’t forget to tip your tour guides as well.

Communication

  • Most people in the tourist areas speak English, but you might encounter language barriers in smaller, local spots. Having a few basic Spanish phrases handy can go a long way.
  • Google Translate can be a lifesaver in more complex conversations. Even with limited Spanish, you’ll find most locals are patient and helpful.
  • Download WhatsApp. It’s the main way people communicate electronically in Mexico. It’s free, and you use your existing phone number.
A wooden pier extending over clear turquoise water, ending in a small palapa (a thatched-roof shelter). The serene, tropical setting includes a glimpse of the shoreline in the background, under a partly cloudy sky.

Frequently Asked Questions: One Day Cozumel Itinerary

Is it worth going to Cozumel for the day?

Absolutely! Cozumel is a popular cruise port for good reason. The island is small enough that you can see a lot of it in one day. Plus, it doesn’t take long to get to any of the attractions.

How much time do you need in Cozumel?

How much time you need in Cozumel depends on what you want to do. If you like scuba diving and beaches, you can easily spend a couple of weeks here. Many people visit for a week and find that to be enough time to see and do a lot.

Can you walk to a beach from the cruise port in Cozumel?

Yes, there are beaches you can walk to from each of the cruise ports. If you want a sandy beach or a full-service beach club, however, you’ll need to take a taxi.

Can you take a day trip to Cozumel?

Yes, going to Cozumel for a day trip from Riviera Maya is very popular. The ferry ride from the mainland takes about an hour, leaving you with plenty of time on the island.

What should we be careful of when visiting Cozumel for a day?

Be careful when taking a taxi. They’re perfectly safe, but there are some less-than-honest drivers that will inflate the prices for cruisers. Be sure to agree on the price before you get in.

Small fishing boats rest on the sandy shore of Cozumel, including one named "Vania Fabiola," with a palm tree and white wall nearby. In the background, a large, overturned boat covered in colorful graffiti lies partially in the surf under a cloudy sky.

Wrap-Up: One Day in Cozumel

No matter how you spend your day in Cozumel, there’s a good chance it won’t be long enough. I came for a month and stayed nearly two years.

Cozumel is a very safe place to visit, so don’t be afraid to wander out of the tourist areas. Just a couple of blocks from the ocean, you’ll find great food and friendly locals.

You may only have one day in Cozumel, but it won’t be your last.

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.