Island with world-class reefs, Maya ruins at San Gervasio and a relaxed town centre.
Cozumel is Mexico's largest inhabited Caribbean island and is known for diving and snorkeling on the Mesoamerican Reef, including Palancar and Columbia. San Miguel town has a waterfront promenade and restaurants, and San Gervasio, a Maya ceremonial site, is in the island interior.
Ferries from Playa del Carmen run frequently, taking about 40 minutes.
| Distance | About 80 km south of Cancun to Playa del Carmen, then 19 km across the channel |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1 hour by coach to Playa del Carmen plus 40 minutes by ferry |
| Getting there | ADO coach from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (about MXN 208-230, USD 12-13), then Ultramar or Winjet ferry to Cozumel (MXN 250-320, USD 14-18 one way) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Address | Muelle Fiscal, Av. Rafael E. Melgar, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo |
How to get there
- ADO coach plus ferry
- Tren Maya to Playa del Carmen plus ferry
- Guided day tours
- Private transfer plus ferry
Suggested itinerary
- Coach to Playa del Carmen, ferry to Cozumel, snorkel or dive tour, lunch in San Miguel, optional San Gervasio visit, return ferry and coach
Location
Muelle Fiscal, Av. Rafael E. Melgar, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo
20.5083, -86.9458 View on map
Highlights
- Palancar Reef
- San Gervasio Maya site
- San Miguel waterfront
- Punta Sur park
Tips for visiting
- Take the first ferry to arrive before cruise ships dock
- Book diving or snorkeling in advance
- Taxis charge fixed zone rates
- Check the final return ferry time
When to visit
Weekdays outside cruise peak have fewer crowds.
Accessibility
Ferry and town are accessible; reef trips depend on the operator.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How can visitors get to Cozumel from Cancun?
Take a coach or the Tren Maya to Playa del Carmen, then a 40-minute ferry.
Is Cozumel worth visiting for diving?
Yes; it is considered one of the top dive destinations in the Caribbean.