10 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Cozumel in 2025

Planning a trip to Cozumel means looking forward to clear turquoise waters and incredible natural beauty. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve gathered the essential, practical information you need. This guide skips the fluff and gets straight to the point, answering the real questions travelers have about money, transportation, safety, and finding authentic experiences on the island. Think of this as your local friend’s advice for a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable Cozumel vacation.

Things to know before visiting Cozumel:

Feature	What You Need to Know
Currency	Both USD and Mexican Pesos (MXN) are accepted, but paying in Pesos is almost always cheaper. Inform your bank before you travel.
Transportation	Taxis have fixed rates (no meters). Renting a Jeep is ideal for exploring the island fully, especially the east coast and Punta Sur.
Water Safety	Do not drink the tap water. Always use bottled or purified water, which is readily available everywhere.
Sargassum	The seaweed season typically peaks from May to August. Cozumel’s west side (where the main resorts are) is often less affected.
Tipping	Tipping is customary. Plan for 10-15% in restaurants, and small amounts for guides and attendants (in Pesos is preferred).
Getting Here	The ferry from Playa del Carmen is the main entry point for non-cruisers. The ride takes about 40 minutes.
Cruise Ports	There are three cruise piers. Know which one you’re docking at to plan your day. Taxis are abundant at all terminals.
Connectivity	Wi-Fi is common in hotels and restaurants. For constant connection, an eSIM is the most convenient option for tourists.
Must-Try Food	Go beyond the tourist spots to try local favorites like Cochinita Pibil (slow-roasted pork) and fresh Ceviche.
Hidden Gems	The rugged, undeveloped “wild side” (east coast), cenotes like Jade Cavern, and the San Gervasio ruins offer authentic adventure.

Navigating the Island: What to Know About Getting Around Cozumel

Getting around Cozumel is straightforward, but knowing your options ahead of time can save you both time and money. The island is relatively small, but some of the best attractions, like Punta Sur Eco Park, require transportation to reach.

Taxis vs. Rentals: What’s the Best Value?

Your choice of transport depends on your plans. Taxis are plentiful and operate on a fixed-rate system based on zones; you won’t see a meter. Always agree on the fare before you get in. They are great for short trips, like going from your hotel to a restaurant downtown.

For ultimate freedom, a rental is your best bet. Renting a scooter is a popular, budget-friendly option for solo travelers or couples, but should only be considered if you are an experienced rider. For families or those wanting to see the entire island comfortably, renting a Jeep is the best way to go. It gives you the ability to access the rugged eastern coast and provides the flexibility for a full day of adventure, like exploring the whole island on a Jeep tour to Punta Sur.

The Ferry to Cozumel: A Quick Guide

If you’re staying in Playa del Carmen or elsewhere in the Riviera Maya, the ferry is your gateway to Cozumel. Two companies, Winjet and Ultramar, run services from the pier in Playa del Carmen to the central terminal in San Miguel, Cozumel. The trip takes about 40-45 minutes. Tickets can be bought at the pier right before departure, and boats leave frequently throughout the day.

Is Uber available in Cozumel?

No, Uber and other rideshare services do not operate in Cozumel. Your primary options for on-demand transport are the official, unionized taxis.

Money in Mexico: Handling Currency and Costs

Managing your money in Cozumel is easy, but a little planning goes a long way. While the island is very tourist-friendly, using the local currency will often work in your favor.

Should I Use US Dollars or Mexican Pesos?

While US dollars are widely accepted in most tourist areas, you will almost always get a better price if you pay in Mexican Pesos (MXN). When you pay in USD, the vendor sets the exchange rate, which is rarely in your favor. For the best rates, withdraw Pesos from a local ATM or exchange money at a casa de cambio.

Tipping Etiquette in Cozumel

Tipping is a standard part of the culture and is greatly appreciated for good service.

• Restaurants: 10-15% of the bill is standard. Check your bill first, as some restaurants may add a propina (tip) automatically.
• Tour Guides & Drivers: Tipping your guides and drivers is a great way to show your appreciation. An appropriate amount is typically 10-20% of the tour cost, depending on the quality of the service.
• Small Services: For bag handlers or gas station attendants, a small tip of 20-40 pesos is appropriate.

Finding ATMs and Using Credit Cards

ATMs are widely available in San Miguel, especially around the main square and at large grocery stores like Mega and Chedraui. For safety, it’s best to use ATMs attached to a bank. Inform your bank of your travel dates before you leave to avoid your cards being frozen. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants, and tour companies, but smaller shops and local eateries are often cash-only.

Staying Safe and Healthy on the Island

Cozumel is a very safe destination, but like anywhere, it’s wise to take basic precautions. Your biggest health considerations will be related to the sun and water, which are easy to manage with a little preparation.

The Sargassum Situation: What to Expect in 2025

Sargassum, a type of seaweed, can occasionally arrive on Caribbean shores. The season typically runs from late spring to summer. However, Cozumel’s geography gives it a major advantage: the popular west coast, where most hotels, beach clubs, and snorkeling sites are located, is naturally protected and rarely sees significant sargassum. The east coast may experience some, but the island authorities are quick to manage it.

Can You Drink the Tap Water in Cozumel?

No, it is highly recommended that you do not drink the tap water in Cozumel. While locals may be accustomed to it, it is not purified for tourist consumption. All hotels, restaurants, and tour operators provide purified bottled water. Ice served in drinks is also made from purified water and is safe to consume.

Staying Connected: SIM Cards and Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is readily available and generally reliable in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in San Miguel. If you need constant connectivity for maps or communication, buying an eSIM online before you travel is the easiest option. You can also purchase a physical SIM card from Telcel or other providers at local OXXO convenience stores.

Beyond the Obvious: Authentic Cozumel Experiences

While the world-class reefs are a primary draw, Cozumel offers incredible adventures on land as well. To truly experience the island, you need to venture away from the main tourist strip.

Explore the “Wild Side”: The Untamed East Coast

The east coast of Cozumel is the opposite of the developed west coast. Here you’ll find rugged, windswept beaches, dramatic rock formations, and small, independent beach bars. There’s no electricity and very little development, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural state. A Jeep is the best way to explore this side of the island safely.

Taste the Real Cozumel: Must-Try Local Foods

To eat like a local, head a few blocks inland from the waterfront. Visit a loncheria (a small, family-run eatery) and order Cochinita Pibil, a slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus and achiote paste, often served in tacos or tortas. Another must-try is Lionfish, an invasive species that local chefs have turned into a delicious dish to help protect the reefs.

Discover Hidden Gems: Cenotes and Mayan Ruins

Cozumel has its own unique natural and historical sites. You can discover secret underground rivers and sinkholes like the beautiful Jade Cavern, perfect for a refreshing swim. For a dose of history, visit the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Ixchel. Both offer a fantastic break from the beach.

Cozumel for Cruise Ship Visitors

If you’re visiting Cozumel on a cruise, planning is key to maximizing your short time on the island. Cozumel has three different cruise piers (Puerta Maya, International Pier, and Punta Langosta), so check your itinerary to see where you will dock.

Making the Most of Your Time in Port

With only a few hours available, pre-booking a shore excursion is the most efficient way to have a great experience without worrying about logistics. A tour that includes multiple activities, like a Jeep adventure that combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and lunch, ensures you see the best of the island and get back to your ship on time. Always account for travel time to and from your ship when planning your day.

Walking vs. Taxis from the Cruise Terminals

The Punta Langosta pier is located right in downtown San Miguel, making it easy to explore the main shopping area on foot. The Puerta Maya and International piers are located about 3 miles (5 km) south of downtown. While you can walk, it’s a long, hot journey. It’s much more practical to take one of the many waiting taxis to get into town or to the meeting point for your excursion.

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Your Cozumel Adventure Awaits

Now, we could say that you are set for a truly memorable trip. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, Cozumel awaits your arrival.

Ready to put these tips into action? To see how you can explore the island’s best sights with a local expert,

browse our full selection of Cozumel tours and find the perfect adventure for you.