Cozumel

[Big MacK]

We will be traveling to Cozumel in 2006. There are 5 adults in our travel party.
For those who have been there before, what is the best way to spend the day there.
I have been told thus far that "Chankanaab national park" is suberb.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Mortlives]

I've never been on a cruise there before, but I've been there before. If you like snorkelling, definitely go to Chankanab. Not only is the snorkelling choice, but there are restaurants, ruins, and botanical gardens. There's also extra animal shows.

I'm not planning on doing the Disney excursion, though, since that seems a little overpriced, and not long enough. We're just gonna grab a taxi from the pier. Mind you, we have our own equipment, and I don't know what rentals cost at the park.

 

[natdencro]

Like Grand Cayman, Cozumel does not have a great deal to offer - unless you want to eat (which you probably wont, as you will be stuffed full after being on the cruise for a few days) and shopping! Best to take advantage of a tour if you can. Carlos and Charlies is great fun, but who wants to spend all their time and money in a bar? Cruising is a good way to see what other countries are like......... we dont want to waste much of a precious day abroad in a pub!Strange how SO many folk just head for a restaurant and dont take advantage of seeing something of where they have visited. None so strange as folk............as they say! Nat

 

[Mortlives]

So, Nat, I'm guessing you're not a snorkeller or a diver. Both of these are considered snorkelling/diving "destinations". However, there are other things to do as well.

Cozumel has a nifty horseback riding tour. Unlike other tours we've heard of, if you want to gallop, you can. It's actually a nice introduction to riding. There are also beaches to go to and relax, if you're not into water or other sports. There are also island tours, and, one thing that's fun, is renting a scooter and tooling around yourself.

There's also submarine tours. Both islands are supposed to have those, and they're located on coral reef, which is breathtaking to see, no matter how you get there.

 

[KKB]

Our fav port of whole cruise! If you want to lounge, it is the most beautiful beach! FREE, too! You can use water tramp/climbing wall free, and pay $5 for wristband if you want to use raft, kayak or snorkeling equip (w/ deposit). Cornmeal-like sand, great food, great Sol beer, great service. Had henna, did massage (he approached me w/ 25 min for $10!!!! DH & I both had one...left nice tip...as good as any massage at home!). There were also jet skis to rent.
Great relaxing local. Cannot wait to go back!
Kris

 

[natdencro]

Yes, you are correct - in as much as you need to move away from Cozumel town to enjoy all the destination has to offer. This is something which most guests do not realize until they disembark and are just faced with endless shops and pubs. Best to do your "homework" before you arrive - as is always the case. Sadly, Im unable to participate in horse-riding/snorkling - or I would indeed have taken up the option. Trips are a very good idea to get the best of your time in Cozumel. We feel that the 2days we have spent there are sufficient - unless the town provides further attractions. Just our opinion of course.Nat

 

[Mortlives]

Sadly, Im unable to participate in horse-riding/snorkling

That is sad. Can you at least do the submarine thing? The best view of Cozumel is from underneath.

 

[myboysmom]

Check out some of the guidebooks available at the library or bookstore. We have one by Fodors with some good suggestions.

 

[Mortlives]

If I recall, you can also do an excursion to the mainland for some choice ruins, or the ecological park at Xcaret (haven't been to this one, but my niece has).

 

[pdarrah]

The snorkeling at Cozumel is fantastic! Last October we did our own trip with Eagle Ray Divers (www.eagleraydivers.com) and had such a great time that we have already booked with them to do it again this October. I first learned to snorkel at Cozumel about 14 years ago - the reefs were wonderful then and still are today. Although you can snorkel on your own from the shore, I think you see more and it is easier if you go out in a boat and snorkel farther out. I'm a strong enough swimmer to have been ABLE to swim from shore to the reefs we snorkeled, but I felt a lot safer having the boat nearby and our guide with us. As a visitor, I have no real understanding of the currents or undertows that might be in the area.

pdarrah