Cozumel Drinks Guide: Best Cocktails and Where to Find Them

Are you looking for the best Cozumel drinks? Or maybe you want to know where the best places to get a drink in Cozumel are. Either way, I’ve got you covered.

I lived in Cozumel for nearly two years and have been known to have a drink from time to time. There are about a million different places where you can get a drink in Cozumel. How to choose?

To help you out, I’ve scoured the island to find not only the best Cozumel drinks but also the best places to drink them. Seriously, my life is so challenging…

The Best Cozumel Drinks

The majority of drinks on this list are alcoholic. But many can be ordered virgin. I have a couple of non-alcoholic classics at the end of the list.

First, a few things you need to know about drinking in Cozumel:

• Don’t worry about the ice in your drink. Restaurants and bars use purified water to make ice so it’s perfectly safe.
  
• The legal drinking age in Cozumel is 18.
  
• The police don’t take drinking and driving lightly. You won’t find Uber in Cozumel, so take a taxi or have a designated driver.
  
• Definitely don’t rent a scooter, especially if you’re drinking. There are way too many bad scooter accidents in Cozumel.
  
• Have fun! Cozumel is a safe destination that’s known for its welcoming people.

Margarita

There’s no cocktail that captures the essence of this island better than the margarita.

The margarita is a simple, yet refined, mix of three key ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau or Triple Sec. I guess there are four ingredients if you count simple syrup (a sugar water).

But we’re not talking about that sickly sweet syrupy stuff you might find in the States.

A real margarita embraces the freshness of these ingredients. Think high-quality tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, and just the right dash of Cointreau for a balanced, citrusy sweetness.

And let’s not forget the unique twist Cozumel adds to this classic. You might stumble upon margaritas made with exotic fruits like guanabana and tamarind, or even find your glass rimmed with chili salt.

Or my recently discovered favorite, the coconut margarita. This is a game-changer for me. And the place down the street from my apartment sells them to go.

Best Place to Get a Margarita in Cozumel: Wet Wendy’s

Wet Wendys is located in the main square (Parque Benito Juárez). It’s popular with the cruise ship crowd so it’s a bit touristy, but you’ll find plenty of locals there too.

If you ask 50 people who has the best margaritas, 40 of them will say Wet Wendys. I know this because I actually did ask!

For the best coconut margarita, however, go to the Lobster Shack on Calle 3 Sur. They’re huge and just the perfect blend of tangy lime and sweet coconut.

Pina Colada

Though the pina colada is originally from Puerto Rico, Cozumel has adopted this tropical treat, and let me tell you, they do it justice.

So, what’s in a piña colada? At its core, this drink is a blend of coconut cream, pineapple juice, and rum.

Best Place to Get a Pina Colada in Cozumel: Coconuts

Coconuts is a Cozumel icon on the east side of the island. The east side is also called “the wild side” because there’s no electricity and it’s largely undeveloped. Except, of course, for some great beach bars.

Coconuts also has the best conch ceviche I’ve ever had. Plus you get some pretty amazing ocean views.

It’s definitely worth the trek over to the east coast. Just be sure to take cash because, like most places on the east side, Coconuts doesn’t accept credit cards.

Paloma

The paloma is a tequila cocktail that’s both uncomplicated and delicious. Tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, a splash of soda water, and a little lime juice. That’s it.

The grapefruit gives it a tart kick, while the soda adds a sparkling finish. The simplicity allows the quality of the tequila to shine through, so don’t skimp on the good stuff.

The paloma is a beloved staple in Mexico, and Cozumel is no exception. If you’re used to cocktails that come from a pre-made mix, the fresh, authentic paloma in Cozumel will be a revelation.

Best Place to Get a Paloma in Cozumel: The Thirsty Cougar

Okay, I’m going to be honest with you. I’ve never had a paloma in my life. But it’s a very popular drink in Cozumel.

So I reached out to the multitudes in my Cozumel Facebook groups to find out where the best place is for palomas and this is what I learned.

The Thirsty Cougar is right on Melgar Avenue at Calle 3 Sur. You get amazing views of the ocean right from your chair. They also have a full menu and really good food.

Tequila and Mezcal

Tequila and Mezcal are the dynamic duo of Mexican spirits. Both are made from the agave plant and are deeply rooted in Mexican culture.

They share some family traits but are distinct enough to warrant individual attention.

Tequila is produced from the blue agave plant, and by law, it can only be called Tequila if it’s made in the Tequila region of Mexico.

Quality tequila is smooth and slightly sweet, showcasing the natural flavors of the agave.

Mezcal can be made from various types of agave, not just blue agave, which gives it a broader flavor profile. It hails from several regions in Mexico, with Oaxaca being the most famous.

Unlike Tequila, which is typically steam-cooked, Mezcal is cooked in underground pits, giving it a smoky flavor that’s become its trademark.

Think of Mezcal as the craft beer of Mexican spirits, offering a wide range of flavors and depths.

Best Place to Get Tequila and Mezcal in Cozumel: Mezcalteca

Mezcalteca is a new addition to Cozumel. They’re on the corner of Calle Dr. Adolfo Rosado Salas (often just referred to as “Salas”) and Avenida 10 Sur.

They have a range of mezcals and tequilas to try, along with a delicious food menu.

It can get pretty hot inside, but there’s an outside patio area. It gets busy later in the evening, making it a good spot for some nightlife.

You should also consider taking a tequila tour in Cozumel. You’ll get all kinds of new knowledge about tequila and you may find a new favorite.

Sangria

While it’s not native to Mexico, Sangria has found a second home in Cozumel, adapting to the local vibe like a tourist turning local.

What is Sangria, you ask? Red wine, fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and berries, a hint of brandy or rum, and sometimes a touch of soda to make it sparkle.

The magic of Sangria is in its flexibility. You can switch out the fruits, adjust the sweetness, and even play with the wine and spirit choices. I’ve seen sangria in Cozumel made with white wine instead of red.

My favorite thing about sangria is that it’s so refreshing. I love the combination of wine and fruit.

Best Place to Get Sangria in Cozumel: Del Sur Parrilla Argentina

This is also the best place to get a steak. Oh. My. Gosh. It is fantastic. But absolutely get the sangria. It’s possibly the most perfect sangria ever.

Del Sur Parrilla Argentina is in Centro on Avenida 5 and Calle 3. I’ve only been there once so far but I plan to return for sure.

Craft Beer

Cozumel has not missed the craft beer craze. There are a couple of breweries on the island. Beers tend to the lighter side, although you can get an IPA.

Of course, you can also get Mexican beer everywhere. You can find imported craft beers in many of Cozumel’s grocery stores.

Best Place to Get Craft Beer in Cozumel: Kusam Brewery

Kusam is Mayan for swallow, the bird Cozumel was named for. The Kusam brewery not only has great beer but also fabulous food.

And it’s dog-friendly! Shelby and I had a very delicious lunch there of tacos al pastor and a glass of their lager.

The owner, Sergio, is a super nice guy. He sometimes moonlights as a tour guide for the Cozumel Bar Hop, which is where I met him.

Between his beers and his chef’s food, Kusam really needs to be on your list.

Kusam is on Avenida 5 and Calle 6, just a couple blocks down from Wet Wendy’s. It’s a short walk from the main square and definitely worth the effort.

Agua Fresca

Aqua fresca is water with a fruity twist. It’s basically water, fruit, and a bit of sugar. It comes in different flavors. My favorite is the Jamaica (pronounced ha-my-ca). It’s got a bit of cranberry juice. It’s very refreshing and not too sweet.

Other types include tamarind, lime, orange, and pineapple. But you’ll find all kinds of fruit incorporated into agua fresca.

Best Place to Get Agua Fresca in Cozumel: Literally Everywhere

I’ve had aqua fresca at more restaurants in Cozumel than I can count. It’s always delicious. You can find different flavors of aqua fresca in Michocanas, which seem to be on every other block.

Otherwise, the restaurants in the Mercado Municipal have great agua fresca, along with delicious, authentic food.

Don’t worry, they use purified water in the agua fresca. It’s perfectly safe to drink.

Horchata

Horchata is the drink that leaves you questioning why you ever settled for plain milk. If you’re on the hunt for something different yet deliciously satisfying in Cozumel, try some horchata.

Horchata is a creamy, non-alcoholic beverage made from rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. Imagine a liquid dessert that’s surprisingly refreshing and pairs well with just about anything.

As a bonus, Horchata is the ultimate palate soother. Had a bit too much spice in your taco? A sip of Horchata will calm those taste buds right down.

Best Place to Get Horchata in Cozumel: La Flor de Michoacan

You can get horchata in most restaurants in Cozumel. But perhaps the best is at La Flor de Michoacan on Avenida Juarez and 20th across from Elektra. They also have some delicious ice cream and juices.

You can buy bottled horchata in grocery stores as well. I haven’t tried it but I’ve heard it’s pretty good.

Coffee

Cozumelenos love their coffee. They even have a coffee festival every October. One of the popular coffee options here is the flat white. It’s steamed milk poured over espresso. It’s like a latte only much stronger.

I tend to go with iced coffee since it’s usually pretty hot here.

Best Place to Get Coffee in Cozumel: Starbucks

Now bear with me here. I’m not usually a big fan of Starbucks. But the Starbucks on Melgar Avenue downtown is oceanfront and has the best views of any coffee shop in town.

I tried to work here once when my internet was out and spent more time watching the boats and people than working. It’s as overpriced as you’d expect but it’s worth some extra money for this view.

For the best coffee without a view, try COZ Coffee Roasting Company. They have amazing coffee and better prices.

Best Places to Get a Drink in Cozumel

Cozumel is known for its beaches and beach bars. If you just want a place to relax and have a drink, you have many options. Some places have live music. Some have amazing Caribbean views. Some even have snorkeling.

Here are my favorites:

Palmera’s

Palmera’s has been one of my favorite spots in Cozumel since the first time I visited 15 years ago. It’s directly across from the ferry terminal on Melgar Avenue. (See on map.)

If you’re coming over from Playa del Carmen for a day trip, this is a great first stop.

They have a large menu and really good food. You’ll find patio seating with great views of the ocean and with some nice breezes. The patio is also dog-friendly.

Drinks can be a bit on the pricy side, but it’s still a great place for a cocktail.

Woody’s

Woody’s is a very popular spot in the main square (see on map). They usually have some live music out on the patio. It’s fun, island music so you can enjoy it while having a drink or some lunch.

At night Woody’s is one of the go-to spots for nightlife. They have good food and drinks at decent prices.

The Money Bar

The Money Bar is one of my favorite beach clubs. You can hang out inside, out on the patio, or on the beach in a lounger. There’s also some great snorkeling right from the shore.

Expect to pay tourist prices, but they don’t charge to use their beach, so I figure it’s a good trade-off. Plus the sunsets are amazing.

The Money Bar is a bit out of town on the main highway. It’s a quick, inexpensive taxi ride. (See on map.)

Wet Wendy’s

I mentioned that Wet Wendy’s is the go-to spot for margaritas. It’s also a great place just to hang out. They often have live music and they always have a festive atmosphere.

Wet Wendy’s is just on the north side of the main square. Turn north at the 7-11 and you can’t miss it. (See on map.)

Jeanie’s Beach Club

Jeanie’s is one of my favorite places in Cozumel because they allow dogs. It’s also close to town and has great snorkeling from shore and delicious food. It’s a perfect place for a drink with a view.

Jeanie’s also has a great breakfast. My favorite is the Mexican eggs. The prices are quite reasonable. If you’re looking for bloody Marys or mimosas, this is your spot.

Jeanie’s is on Melgar Avenue across from the Mega grocery store. (See on map.)

The Thirsty Cougar

I mentioned that the Thirsty Cougar is the go-to place for Palomas. It’s also perfect for people watching.

I love watching the cruisers making their way back to their ship after drinking in the sun all day.

There are outdoor tables where you can catch the ocean breezes and enjoy the atmosphere.

The Thirsty Cougar often has live music at night, too. Stop by for a drink while you watch the sunset then stay for some music.

The Thirsty Cougar is on Melgar Avenue at Calle 3 Sur. You can’t miss it.

Hemingway

Hemingway is a beach club just south of the main square. (See on map.) It’s an easy walk from downtown. Here you can swim, snorkel, eat, and drink to your heart’s content.

It’s a great place to catch the sunset. Or come for lunch, hang out all day, then catch the sunset. Afterward, stay for the music and dancing as Hemingway turns into a fun nightclub.

Cozumel Museum

Having a museum on a list of places to drink in Cozumel may seem a bit strange. But it’s really not. There’s a fantastic restaurant on the museum’s roof with some of the best views in town.

The Cozumel Museum is a great place to visit on its own. They have some interesting exhibits about the island’s history. Go in the afternoon so you can be on the roof for the sunset.

The museum is on Melgar Avenue just north of the ferry terminal. (See on map.)

Coconuts

Over on the east side of Cozumel is Coconuts. I mentioned that this is the place to go for pina coladas. But it’s also a great place to go for any drink.

The east side is wild and untamed. The waves are bigger and the views are spectacular.

Coconuts is one of the most popular east side spots (see on map), partially due to the atmosphere.

Trust me when I tell you this is not a place to take the kids. It’s a fun party spot with strong drinks and delicious food.

Coconuts definitely has tourist prices, but the food portions are big so you can easily share. The conch ceviche I got was enough for three of us.

Rasta Bar

Rasta Bar is also on the east side of Cozumel, on the southern end. (See on map). Rasta’s is like a taste of Jamaica but with a Mexican flair. It’s a fun place to hang out with some great ocean views.

Rasta’s is famous for their peanut butter tequila. It sounds weird but it’s surprisingly delicious.

Cozumel Pirate Ship

Okay, the drinks may not be the best on the island, but you can’t beat the ambiance! I recently went on the pirate ship dinner cruise, and it was so much fun. You get an open bar with all-you-can-drink rum punch, margaritas, and beer.

Plus they come along every so often and squirt some unidentified concoction in your mouth. They call them shots, but it’s more juice than alcohol. Still, it’s a lot of fun.

The Cozumel Cocktail

There’s even a drink called the Cozumel. I’ve actually never seen it on a menu in Cozumel but to be fair, I’ve never looked.

Here’s how to make it:

• 1 oz. Rum
• 1 oz. Vodka
• 1/2 oz. Amaretto
• 1/2 oz. Apricot Brandy
• Fruit Punch

Shake it all up and serve it with a pineapple wedge and a little umbrella and you’ve got an island in a glass!

Frequently Asked Questions: Drinking in Cozumel

Wrap-Up: Cozumel Drinks

Cozumel has no shortage of great drinks and places to get them. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong. This place knows how to treat tourists.

But for the best Cozumel drinks, try some on this list. You might find a new favorite.

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