Location & Transportation
Cozumel offers three main pier locations for cruise passengers, each with its own charm and convenience:
-
Punta Langosta: This pier is right in downtown San Miguel. After disembarking, you’ll walk over an overpass into a shopping mall and be in the heart of the city. It’s a great spot for those who want to get straight into the lively downtown vibe. From here, you can also catch a ferry to Playa del Carmen – just remember to buy a one-way ticket because the ferry companies (like Winjet and Ultramar) don’t accept each other's tickets.
-
International Pier: Primary for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise ships, this pier is about a 10-minute taxi ride south of town. If you’re feeling adventurous on a cooler day, it’s a 30-minute walk along the scenic coastline. Pro tip: When you reach the pier’s exit, turn left toward the El Cid La Ceiba Hotel to catch a taxi faster if needed.
-
Puerto Maya: Used by Carnival Corporation’s fleet, this area comprises three piers and is located about 3 miles (5 km) from downtown. It shares a similar layout to the International Pier, with plenty of taxis waiting to take you into town.
On busy days, some ships even anchor offshore and tender passengers into the Punta Langosta pier. For real-time boat positions, you can check out live nautical charts like this one for Punta Langosta and San Miguel and this one for Puerto Maya.
Sightseeing
Cozumel isn’t just about its piers – the island is famous for its underwater wonders and beautiful coastal scenery:
- Enjoy vibrant coral reefs and marine life by snorkeling or diving. Whether you’re on the west side where most dive shops are clustered or exploring the more rugged east coast with its untouched beaches, there’s plenty to see.
- Stroll along the waterfront in San Miguel and check out local shops, small eateries, and the colorful atmosphere of the town.
Tours & Excursions
There’s a wealth of activities and excursions to enhance your Cozumel experience:
- Mini Submarine Tour: Try a new way to explore the underwater world. With Cozumel Water Sports’ mini submarine tour, non-divers can ride an underwater scooter with a dry head inside an air-filled helmet – a great option if you wear glasses!
- Ferry to Playa del Carmen: A popular way to explore the mainland attractions like ancient Mayan ruins, eco-parks, and cultural sites. Once in Playa, you can visit nearby historic ruins and even modern attractions like Xcaret or Xel Ha.
- Local Transportation Options: Renting a car near the docks is convenient since there’s just one main road on the island. Taxis are also available – expect to pay around US$10 for a ride from the pier into San Miguel, but always ask for the posted rate before you set off.
- Nearby Attractions:
- Chankanaab National Park: Roughly 9 km south of town, this park offers a beach, restaurant, bar, walking trails, and a lagoon inhabited by a large iguana population. Enjoy activities like snorkeling, diving, swimming with dolphins, and more.
- Cozumel Pearl Farm: The only active pearl farm in the Caribbean is set in a pristine natural reserve. Accessible only by boat, it’s a unique experience surrounded by mangroves and gorgeous turquoise waters.
- Chichen Itza: About a two-hour drive away, this world-famous archaeological site (one of the New 7 Wonders) makes for an exciting day trip.
- Río Secreto: Discover a mysterious underground river with thousands of stalactites and stalagmites – it’s a 30-minute drive from the cruise terminals.
Shopping
San Miguel is perfect for finding local treasures:
- The town is filled with shops offering local crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Silver jewelry is popular here and often more affordable than in the US. Look for pieces stamped with .925 to ensure authenticity, and consider carrying a small magnet – if the silver sticks, it likely isn’t sterling silver.
Dining
You’ll enjoy a wide range of dining options in Cozumel:
- San Miguel’s streets are dotted with restaurants and cafés serving both local and international cuisine.
- Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, or a light snack by the water, there’s something to satisfy every taste.
Culture & Local Events
Cozumel is rich in local flavor and practical tips to make your visit smoother:
Local Events
- The island hosts various cultural celebrations, music festivals, and local fairs throughout the year. I recommend checking local tourism websites upon arrival to see what’s on during your visit.
Practical Information
- Language: Spanish is the main language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Currency: The Mexican peso (MXN) is the local currency. In many tourist spots, prices may also be listed in US dollars, so keep an eye out for "US$" labels. Approximately 17 pesos equal 1 US dollar.
- Business Hours: Most stores open from 9 am to 1 pm and then again from 5 pm to 9 pm. Shops close on Sunday mornings, though those located near the piers might stay open throughout the day.
- Taxis: Always ask to see the rate card before starting your journey to avoid overcharging.
Safety & Awareness
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas.
- Use only licensed taxis and agree on a fare before you start your ride.