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Heading to Cozumel and not sure where to start? This guide has everything you need!
This laid-back island has a way of stealing your heart with its turquoise waters, vibrant reefs, and colorful streets. Whether you’re here to snorkel alongside sea turtles, savor authentic local flavors, or simply kick back on a white-sand beach, Cozumel makes it easy to mix adventure with pure relaxation.
After exploring the island from coast to coast, we’ve crafted this three-day Cozumel itinerary to help you experience the best of it all—from unforgettable water excursions to local dining and breezy evenings in San Miguel. By the end of your trip, you’ll be soaking up every last bit of island magic and already dreaming about your next visit. Let’s get to it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Cozumel was this snorkeling tour! We snorkeled at four different locations, including a turtle sanctuary and a starfish sanctuary, and had a lovely day relaxing on the Caribbean waters.
Itinerary Overview
This three-day Cozumel itinerary is designed to give you a full taste of the island, from underwater adventures to laid-back afternoons and flavorful local meals. Plus, getting around is simple—taxis are reliable and convenient, and in central San Miguel, you won’t need to drive at all.
While you could rent a car, we’ve found that guided tours are the easiest, most stress-free way to explore—from snorkeling at El Cielo to visiting Mayan ruins and the island’s wild eastern coast. Follow this plan for a balanced, immersive getaway that lets you experience Cozumel without the hassle of planning every detail.
Day 1: Snorkel with turtles and starfish at El Cielo, then enjoy tacos in San Miguel. Spend the afternoon exploring the town and nearby beaches, and finish the day with a scenic dinner at Buccanos followed by a casual drink at Cervecería Punta Sur.
Day 2: Start today with coffee in San Miguel, then dive into a flavorful small-group food tour. In the afternoon, explore the island on a private 5-hour tour with stops at San Gervasio Ruins, the east coast, and Punta Sur, before capping the evening with a relaxed dinner at La Clásica.
Day 3: Enjoy a flexible all-inclusive beach day at Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club, lounging, swimming, and sipping bottomless drinks. Wrap up your trip with an elegant Mayan-inspired dinner at Azul Madera, reminiscing about three perfect days in Cozumel.
Day 1
Morning – Go snorkeling with turtles
Kicking off your Cozumel adventure can feel overwhelming! There’s so much beauty to see, but figuring out how to explore the island’s reefs without the stress of planning, renting gear, or driving around can be tricky. That’s exactly why this all-inclusive snorkel tour is the perfect way to start your trip. Everything is taken care of for you—just show up and get ready to experience the best of Cozumel from the water.
The tour visits three to four spectacular snorkel spots, including a serene green turtle sanctuary, where you might find yourself drifting alongside these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.
The highlight, though, is El Cielo, or “Heaven,” an otherworldly sandbar where the white sands are dotted with vibrant orange and red starfish. Afterward, you’ll glide over to Cielito, or “Little Heaven,” where you can relax in shallow, crystal-clear waters with freshly prepared ceviche, tropical fruit, and ice-cold drinks.
We recommend booking the 9:30 am departure, since it wraps up around 1:30 pm, giving you the rest of the afternoon free. From start to finish, everything, from snorkeling gear to snacks, is handled by the friendly crew, making it completely stress-free.
No other experience combines Cozumel’s top snorkel spots, a green turtle sanctuary, and the famous El Cielo all in one effortless adventure. We absolutely loved it! And clearly we’re not alone—check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why this is one of the island’s most talked about experiences!
Don’t miss out—book your snorkel tour here and see the best of Cozumel!
Lunch – Los Tacotales
After a morning of snorkeling and soaking up the Caribbean sun, nothing hits the spot like authentic Mexican tacos, and Los Tacotales in the heart of San Miguel is our top pick. This casual local favorite serves perfectly seasoned meats tucked into soft tortillas, topped with fresh salsas and crisp veggies. A cold soda or a frosty brew is the perfect way to cool off, and if you’re extra hungry, grab a side of crispy nachos or cheesy quesadillas to round out your meal.
What makes Los Tacotales a must-stop isn’t just the flavor—it’s the laid-back, local vibe. It’s the kind of spot where you can relax, watch the rhythm of island life, and recharge without straying far from the action. Conveniently close to the pier and central San Miguel, it’s the perfect break before continuing your Cozumel adventures.
Afternoon – Explore San Miguel Centro and hit the beach
San Miguel Centro
After lunch, take some time to wander through San Miguel Centro, the charming heart of Cozumel. The town’s colonial-style architecture and colorful streets make it a fun and relaxing place to explore on foot.
Start at Benito Juarez Park, where you can snap a photo with the vibrant Cozumel sign—a must for any visitor. From there, stroll the town square, pop into the local shops for souvenirs, and treat yourself to a churro or ice cream from one of the street vendors. If you’re curious about the island’s past, the Cozumel Museum offers a compact but fascinating look at local history and culture.
Beaches
Once you’ve explored the town, it’s time to head to the beaches for a relaxing afternoon. The northern and central beaches near town are more rocky than sandy but still offer calm waters for swimming and snorkeling, with a mix of free access spots and small-fee beach clubs.
For a quieter, more local experience, check out Playa las Rocas, a favorite among island residents. This spot is more rugged than touristy, with rocky edges and calm, clear water that’s perfect for a quick swim or casual snorkeling.
If you’re chasing that classic white-sand, turquoise-water beach, make the 20-minute trip south to Playa Palancar. The $20 USD entry includes lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a welcome drink, making it a great spot to unwind.
While the wild eastern beaches are scenic, they’re a 45-minute drive with strong currents and few amenities, so they’re best saved for a quick photo stop rather than swimming.
Dinner – Buccanos
After a relaxing afternoon on the beach, head back to your hotel to freshen up before treating yourself to dinner on Cozumel’s northern coast at Buccanos (closed Mondays). This upscale yet relaxed spot pairs scenic ocean views with incredible food and drinks, making it one of our favorite places to dine on the island. Consider making reservations, especially if you want a sunset table, as it’s a popular spot for dinner.
The menu blends fresh local seafood with international flavors, so you might start with ceviche or tuna tartare before moving on to lobster, fresh sushi, grilled fish, or perfectly cooked steak. Pair it all with a signature beverage and enjoy the romantic, open-air ambiance as the sun sets over the water. It’s a little slice of paradise and a perfect way to wind down after an adventurous day.
Evening – Cerveceria Punta Sur
Cozumel may not have the buzzing nightlife of Cancun or Playa del Carmen, but the island still offers a few cozy spots to end your evening. After dinner, make your way back to San Miguel Centro and pop into Cervecería Punta Sur, a laid-back local brewpub where you can sip on crafts brewed right on the island.
It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for a low-key nightcap, with a friendly, local vibe that captures the relaxed pace of Cozumel. After a pint or two, enjoy a short walk through the quiet streets of San Miguel before heading back to rest up for day two.
Related Read: Don’t wait too long to book a hotel, as the good ones book up fast! Our where to stay in Cozumel guide has all the places we love.
Day 2
Morning – COZ Coffee Roasting Company
Ease into your second day on the island with a slow morning. There’s no need for a big breakfast today because a food tour is on the horizon, but a little caffeine to kick things off never hurts! Head to COZ Coffee Roasting Company, a cozy local spot known for its freshly roasted beans and warm island vibe.
Order a traditional café de olla, a spiced Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (raw sugar), and sip it slowly while you watch the streets of San Miguel wake up. The café also has light pastries if you need a small bite, but keeping it light will leave you plenty of room for the delicious tastings ahead. It’s the perfect, relaxed start to a day full of flavor and local discovery.
Mid-day – Taste your way around Cozumel on a food tour
If you’ve ever wanted to taste the real Cozumel, this small-group food tour is the perfect way to spend your late morning. Running from 11 am to 2 pm except on Sundays, this experience takes you beyond the tourist restaurants and straight into local kitchens and street stalls, where the flavors of the island truly come alive.
Our tour began in downtown Cozumel, where we hopped into a minivan with a small group of fellow food lovers and our guide, Erin. She was fantastic—full of local knowledge and fun stories that brought each stop to life.
Over the next three hours, we visited five different local spots to sample authentic island fare. We bit into warm, meat-stuffed empanadas, savored shrimp tostadas made with freshly caught seafood, and sipped an ice-cold cerveza while learning how Cozumel’s Yucatecan roots and Caribbean influences create such a flavorful culinary scene.
One of our favorite stops was the open-air market, buzzing with locals shopping for fresh produce and fragrant spices. We also visited a cocina económica, a family-run spot serving simple, home-cooked meals, before ending at a Mexican bakery to enjoy sweet pastries and a refreshing agua fresca.
By the end, we were full, happy, and inspired! It’s the kind of experience that makes you realize the heart of Cozumel isn’t just in its beaches, but in the kitchens and markets where the island’s stories are told through food.
Check HUNDREDS of glowing reviews and book this food tour here!
Afternoon/evening – Private tour of Cozumel
If you really want to see all sides of Cozumel without the crowds, this private 5-hour sightseeing tour is the best way to do it. Booking the 2:30 or 3 pm option means your driver can pick you up right after the food tour, letting you sit back, relax, and enjoy the island while someone else does the navigating.
One of the best parts of having a private guide is the flexibility. We didn’t have to follow a rigid route—our guide asked what we were most excited about and then customized the afternoon just for us. We explored the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, learning fascinating history about the island’s sacred past, before heading to the east side of Cozumel for wild coastal views far away from the tourist areas.
Our guide even knew hidden spots we’d never have found on our own. Punta Sur Eco Park was an absolute highlight—between the lighthouse, the lagoons, and the chance to spot crocodiles and tropical birds, it felt like a completely different side of the island.
The best part? We could move at our own pace, stop for photos, and soak in the quiet beauty of the less-visited areas. By the time we were dropped back in town, it felt like we’d seen the real Cozumel—from history and nature to off-the-beaten-path gems. And judging by the glowing five-star reviews here, we’re not the only ones who think this private tour is the ultimate way to explore the island!
This private tour fills up fast—reserve your spot here so you don’t miss out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Evening – La Clásica
By the time your private sightseeing tour wraps up around 7:30 or 8 p.m., you’ll be ready for a relaxed evening meal back in San Miguel Centro. We headed straight to La Clásica, a cozy local favorite (closed Sundays) that’s perfect for winding down after a full day of exploring.
The menu features classic Mexican comfort food with a modern twist—flavorful tacos, cheesy quesadillas, and sizzling fajitas—paired with a refreshing drink. We loved the laid-back atmosphere, it’s lively enough to feel fun yet relaxed enough for an easy dinner after a busy day. It’s the perfect spot to refuel and reminisce about your favorite moments before heading back to your hotel to rest up for day three.
Day 3
Full-day – Spend the day at Mr. Sanchos Beach Club
If your final day in Cozumel calls for pure relaxation with zero planning required, this all‑inclusive day pass to Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club is the way to go. Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm (except Sundays), this flexible day lets you arrive when you like and spend hours doing exactly what a beach day should be—nothing but relaxing, eating, and sipping your favorite drinks.
Once you check in, you’ll have access to a private beachfront area, pool bars, and shaded hammocks, all reserved for all‑inclusive guests. You can float in the warm Caribbean water, lounge in a beach chair, or grab a kayak for a little adventure on the waves.
The best part is you can eat and drink as much as you like—from fresh seafood and classic Mexican plates to frozen drinks and tropical juices. Whether you want to nap in the sun or rotate between the pool and the ocean, the pace is completely up to you.
We loved this day for its laid‑back, do‑whatever‑you‑want vibe, especially after two activity‑filled days of exploring the island. A stop at Mr. Sancho’s is the perfect way to soak in the last bit of paradise before you leave Cozumel, letting you finish your trip on a high note of sun, sand, and bottomless drinks!
Secure your all‑inclusive pass here for the ultimate final day in paradise!
Dinner – Azul Madera
After a blissful day at Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club, your last night in Cozumel calls for something special. Azul Madera is the perfect choice, offering traditional Mayan cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant yet welcoming setting. The menu highlights local flavors like smoky cochinita pibil, fresh seafood with vibrant spices, and house-made sauces, all best enjoyed with a signature drink or a chilled glass of white. It’s a popular dinner spot, so making a reservation here is recommended, especially if you want a garden or patio table.
We loved ending our trip here because the relaxed, romantic atmosphere makes your final dinner feel memorable rather than rushed. Over dessert, we found ourselves reminiscing about the past three days—snorkeling vibrant reefs, exploring hidden beaches, and tasting Cozumel’s local flavors—already dreaming about the next time we’d return to this beautiful island!
Related Read: Need a few more activities to fill your time? Check out the 10 best things to do in Cozumel here!
Where to Stay in Cozumel, Mexico
When it comes to where to stay in Cozumel, there is no shortage of hotels to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a more budget-friendly option, there’s something for everyone. If these hotels are still available when you’re ready to book, they will be your best bet!
El Cozumeleno Beach Resort – $$$
El Cozumeleno Beach Resort is an all-inclusive resort located on one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Cozumel, with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and sparkling blue waters. The resort offers a variety of on-site restaurants and bars, as well as water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, boogie boarding, and scuba diving. There is also a spa, fitness center, and kids club.
The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, with private balconies or patios. The prices start at around $300 USD per night, which includes all meals, drinks, and activities. You should book El Cozumelo Beach Resort online in advance to avoid it fully booking out.
Playa Azul Hotel – $$
Playa Azul Hotel is located only a minute from the beach, so you can enjoy stunning ocean views from the comfort of your room. It also features an outdoor pool and an on-site golf course that guests can use for free throughout their stay.
The hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar, as well as a sun deck, spa, and complimentary breakfast buffet every morning. All rooms at Playa Azul include a private balcony with views of the Caribbean Sea, satellite TV, and free wifi.
The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the service is excellent. The prices start at around $200 USD per night, which is very reasonable considering the location and amenities! Book Playa Azul Hotel online on Booking.com.
Hotel Puerto Libre – $
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay that still offers sea views and a convenient location, Hotel Puerto Libre is my top pick! It’s surrounded by excellent restaurants and bars, a short walk from Centro, but feels calm and relaxed as you overlook the sea. You can enjoy the infinity pool, sun terrace, and restaurant/bar onsite, as well as the comfortable and well-decorated rooms.
They offer a range of room types, from double to king. Prices start around $100 USD per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com!
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We loved the slow and relaxed vibes of Cozumel and think this itinerary perfectly balances fun excursions (like snorkeling with turtles) with lazy beach days. You’ll eat amazing food, see incredible sights, and experience Cozumel’s unique culture – what more could you want!?
Before you go, check out the rest of our Mexico blogs! We’ve traveled all over this beautiful country and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow adventurers. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next trip – cheers!
12 Things to KNOW Before Going Scuba Diving in Cozumel
10 BEST Tours in Playa del Carmen that You Don’t Want to Miss!
12 Things to KNOW Before Going Snorkeling in Cozumel, Mexico
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: 3-Day Itinerary