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How to Get From Cozumel to Riviera Maya (By a Local)

BySherry Arkfeld

Are you wondering how to get from Cozumel to Riviera Maya? You’re in the right place. I lived in Cozumel and made the trip to the mainland often.

It’s quite easy to get to Riviera Maya from Cozumel. Just hop on the ferry in downtown Cozumel and in about 45 minutes you’ll be in Playa del Carmen. From there it’s an easy bus or taxi ride to anywhere you want to go.

Let’s take a closer look so you can be fully prepared for your trip.

View of turquoise ocean water framed by palm fronds, with small boats floating near the shore. A distant coastline with palm trees sits under a bright blue sky with fluffy white clouds.

Ways to Get From Cozumel to Riviera Maya

Getting to Riviera Maya from Cozumel is pretty straightforward. Whether you’re going for a day trip or if you’re flying into Cozumel for your Riviera Maya vacation, you have a couple of options.

Here are three ways to make the trip, each with its own perks and quirks.

1. Passenger Ferry + Ground Transport

How it Works:

  • Take the passenger ferry from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen.
  • Once you’re in Playa del Carmen, you can choose between an ADO bus, a taxi, or a private shuttle to get to your final destination in the Riviera Maya.

Why it’s the Best Option:

  • It’s the most straightforward and usually the quickest and cheapest way.
  • You get to enjoy a scenic ferry ride.
  • Multiple ground transport options mean you can tailor the rest of the trip to your needs.

2. Car Ferry + Drive

How it Works:

  • Take the car ferry from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen.
  • Drive to your destination in the Riviera Maya.

What to Consider:

  • This option takes longer due to the car ferry schedule and the drive itself.
  • It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

3. Fly to Cancun + Ground Transport

How it Works:

What to Consider:

  • Flights can be pricey and subject to availability. You have to charter a private plane.
  • You’ll need to arrange additional ground transport in Cancun.

The Verdict:
If you’re looking for the most hassle-free and efficient way to get from Cozumel to the Riviera Maya, the passenger ferry combined with ground transport is your best bet.

Ferry Information

There are three ferry companies that run between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen: Winjet, Ultramar, and Xailing.

One or the other leaves every half hour. They are very similar, so just take whichever one is leaving when you’re ready.

The exception is if you’re traveling with a dog. Winjet has a strict limitation on dogs. They have to be under 20 pounds and stay in their carrier. Ultramar allows all leashed dogs, but you have to stay in the outdoor seating area.

The ferries have restrooms and air conditioning. They also have snack bars and sometimes there’s live music.

You can buy your ferry ticket in advance, but tickets for the companies are not transferable. If you buy a ticket on Ultramar and miss the ferry, you’ll have to wait two hours for the next Ultramar ferry or buy a new ticket for Winjet or Xailing.

About Riviera Maya

Ancient stone ruin sits atop rocky cliffs overlooking turquoise waters and a pristine white sand beach. Bright sunlight and scattered clouds enhance the tropical coastal scenery.

Where is Riviera Maya?

Riviera Maya is a stunning stretch of coastline on the northeastern Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It starts from just south of Cancun and extends down to Tulum.

What Towns Does Riviera Maya Include?

The Riviera Maya is home to several towns and cities, each with its own unique vibe:

  • Playa del Carmen: Known for its beaches and vibrant Fifth Avenue.
  • Tulum: Famous for its ruins and boho-chic atmosphere.
  • Akumal: A haven for snorkelers, especially those looking to swim with turtles.
  • Puerto Morelos: A quieter option, great for families and those looking to escape the crowds.
  • Puerto Aventuras: A gated community with a marina, golf course, and dolphin discovery center. It’s a quieter, upscale alternative.
  • Chemuyil: A small, traditional Mexican village located near some of the best cenotes and Xcacel Beach, a sea turtle sanctuary.
  • Paamul: Known for its beautiful bay and snorkeling opportunities, Paamul is a peaceful spot ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • Xpu-Ha: This area is famous for its wide, white-sand beaches and is less commercialized than other parts of Riviera Maya.
  • Punta Allen: Located within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, this fishing village offers a rustic experience and is a gateway to some fantastic fly-fishing spots.
  • Mahahual: Though a bit further south and technically just outside the Riviera Maya, this town is gaining popularity for its beaches and proximity to the Banco Chinchorro coral atoll.
  • Felipe Carrillo Puerto: This inland town offers a glimpse into the Mayan culture and is close to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

Who is Riviera Maya Best For?

  • Adventure Seekers: From diving in cenotes to zip-lining through the jungle, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities.
  • Beach Lovers: With miles of pristine beaches, it’s a sunbather’s paradise.
  • History Buffs: The area is rich in Mayan history, with ruins like Tulum and Coba.
  • Families: Many resorts and activities cater to families, making it a versatile destination.

What Can You Do in Riviera Maya?

  • Water Activities: Think snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding.
  • Explore Ruins: Tulum and Coba are just a couple of the historical sites.
  • Nature Parks: Places like Xcaret and Xel-Há offer a mix of nature, adventure, and cultural experiences.
  • Nightlife: From beach bars in Playa del Carmen to upscale clubs in Tulum, the nightlife is diverse.

Why Go to Riviera Maya From Cozumel?

  • Accessibility: It’s just a short ferry ride away, making it easy to explore more of the Yucatán Peninsula.
  • Culinary Scene: The food options are more diverse, giving you the chance to indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine and international fare.
Two bright yellow Ultramar ferries are docked at a long pier extending into turquoise water. The vibrant scene is set under a blue sky with scattered white clouds.

Frequently Asked Questions: Getting From Cozumel to Riviera Maya

How long is the ferry ride from Riviera Maya to Cozumel?

The ferry ride from Playa del Carmen in Riviera Maya to Cozumel typically takes about 45 minutes. However, it’s a good idea to factor in some extra time for boarding and disembarking.

How much is the ferry from Riviera Maya to Cozumel?

Ferry tickets are around $15 USD each way.

How far is Cozumel from Riviera Maya?

Cozumel is about 12 miles (19 km) off the coast of Playa del Carmen. The distance is easily covered by a 45-minute ferry ride, making it convenient for day trips or longer stays.

Is Cozumel part of Riviera Maya?

No, Cozumel is not part of Riviera Maya. Cozumel is an island located off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, while Riviera Maya is a stretch of coastline on the mainland. They are separate but closely located destinations.

Is Cozumel better than Playa del Carmen?

Cozumel and Playa del Carmen cater to different tastes. Cozumel is a go-to for world-class scuba diving and a relaxed atmosphere. Playa del Carmen has a broader range of activities, a lively Fifth Avenue for shopping, and an active nightlife. Your choice depends on what you’re looking for.

Wrap-Up: How to Get From Cozumel to Riviera Maya

Navigating from Cozumel to Riviera Maya and back is a breeze, offering you the best of both worlds.

This entire region of the Yucatán Peninsula has so much to offer. There’s no reason why you can’t explore it all.

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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.