Events

With a Mexican heart and a Caribbean soul, Cozumel is a paradisiacal island where fun, flavor, nature and tradition become one. A friendly face and a warm welcome await you to make your stay truly unforgettable.

Famous worldwide for its spectacular coral reefs, the island offers plenty of water sports such as scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, kayaking and many more. With its beautiful beaches and exotic locale, Cozumel is an ideal spot for honeymooners; who better to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets, moonlit walks on the secluded beaches, delicious swims through crystal clear turquoise waters and romantic candlelight dinners?

The choice of activities are boundless; sandy beaches, turquoise waters, friendly and lively people, typical festivals, scattered Maya ruins, great restaurants, a myriad of duty-free stores, diving, golfing, romance; a whole new world where everybody has a place under the sun.

History

The word Cozumel derives its name from the Mayan words Cuzam - swallow and Lumil - land, which form the word Cuzamil (The Land of the Swallows). Over time the word has been transformed into the Spanish version used today; Cozumel.

The first Maya settled in Cozumel some 2,000 years ago but it was during the classic period from 300-900 A.D that it began to flourish. Throughout six centuries priests were at the top of the social hierarchy in the Mayan world and life revolved around religious ceremonies. As a result, Cozumel became one of the most important sanctuaries in the Yucatan region.

Religious pilgrimages from all over Mesoamerica were common to the island, especially women who were either pregnant or wanted to get pregnant. They paid homage to the goddess X’chel, the deity of the moon, pregnancy and childbirth. It was a tradition among the Mayan People to take the trip to the shrine of this goddess on the island at least once in their lifetime.

Mayan Heritage

Besides the island’s numerous activities involving water, visitors to Cozumel can also explore the Mayan culture on the island itself and at nearby sites in the Yucatan peninsula.

San Gervasio, inhabited from 200 A.D. until the Spanish conquest, is the largest archeological site on the island and was a sanctuary of the Goddess X’chel, the deity of the moon, pregnancy and childbirth.

El Cedral, located just off Cozumel’s main road and about 10 miles south of San Miguel, is now the site of La Santa Cruz celebration every May. Now a quaint village, El Cedral was a site of worship where offerings were placed for the gods, before settlers built a church on the site.

Castillo Real (Royal Castle), a Mayan site on the east coast towards the northern tip of the island, features a lookout tower, a base pyramid and a temple with two chambers capped by a false arch.

El Caracol is a well-preserve ancient structure built between 1200 and 1400 A.D. and used by the Mayans to signal the approach of a hurricane. In essence, El Caracol is a whistle propelled by winds funneled through a seashell to warn navigators to take refuge from impending bad weather. The ruins are now part of the Punta Sur Ecological Reserve.

Location

Cozumel, the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean and the most populous island in Mexico, lies 12 miles off the coast of Playa del Carmen on the eastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula within the state of Quintana Roo.
Cancun International Airport => Playa Del Carmen = 30 miles

Things To Do

Cozumel’s wide appeal may also be attributed to the way it embraces the new, whilst preserving its past. Cozumel is home to the ancient Mayans, well preserved at San Gervasio and other archeological sites, as well as pristine nature reserves where numerous species of flora and fauna thrive, and protected coral reefs teeming with a variety of sea life.

Cozumel is a place where guests can indulge in the latest spa treatments, golf at the state-of-the-art Cozumel Country Club, shop-till-they drop at chic hotel boutiques and authentic local markets, and enjoy a variety of fine dinning experiences. They can even have their wedding here and stay for the honeymoon. And of course, there is the world’s very best diving.

Attractions

You do not have to be a diver to enjoy Cozumel’s many wonders, both under the sea and above as there is plenty to see and do away from the shore.

For nature lovers there is an abundance of parks, both on land and underwater, for exploring a unique plant and animal habitat. Visitors can also discover the marine life on board the Atlantis, an unforgettable submarine ride that will awe passengers with a magnificent underwater spectacle.

Children and adults alike can also learn about the Mayans by visiting the ruins of San Gervasio and exhibits at the Cozumel Museum, or enjoy adventures such as sailing on a catamaran or swimming with the dolphins. The latter is available at Dolphin Discovery inside Chankanaab Park. The less adventurous can enjoy the park’s 45-minute dolphin encounter program.

Day trips to Punta Sur, the island’s ecological reserve, and Chankanaab, a National park, are the best for eco-tourists. Punta Sur encompasses an outstanding variety of natural landscapes. Ranging over 240-plus acres, a lagoon environment prevails with its coastal humid soil and mangrove jungles that are the setting of a mosaic of environments and coastal ecosystems. Chankanaab Park, which means “a small sea within the ocean” in Mayan, is one of nature’s greatest treasures that includes a world-renowned ecosystem and natural aquarium. The park’s Botanical Garden invites visitors to listen to the wind as it sings through the largest bamboo curtain on Cozumel and view over 600 different types of tropical plants from more than 20 countries.

Cozumel’s beaches vary from scalloped bays and inlets to wide wind-swept swathes of powdery sand. The calm waters of the western (leeward) side of the island are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing and sunbathing.

The desolate, eastern (windward) shore is lashed by waves and steady winds, although there are some lovely bays that are safe for swimming. South of downtown, there are several beach clubs such as Playa Mia, Nachi-Cocom and Mr. Sancho’s, offering seafront dining, sports equipment rental, beach chairs and palapas.

Shopping

When you are ready for a break from the sun and surf, take a stroll through the shops in town. Great bargains can be found on Mexican items. Walking the streets and shopping centers is a delightful experience. From a custom made t-shirt to one–of-a-kind silver jewelry collection, the shops and boutiques have the best selection and value on the Island.

You will also find a number of shops specializing in resort wear and a wide array of imported items, including duty-free perfumes and cosmetics, china and crystal, watches and cameras.

If you shop carefully, you will find that prices on jewelry fashioned with Mexican silver and turquoise are exceptionally good. When buying sterling silver, always make sure you see "925" stamped on the item. Gold items should be stamped with a set of two numbers and two letters (in any combination).

Textiles are another important product and show Mexico's geographic and cultural diversity. Traditional Mayan dresses (huipiles) and shawls (rebozos), as well as men's embroidered cotton shirts (guayaberas) and tightly woven Panama hats, are representative of the States in the Yucatan peninsula, including the State of Quintana Roo. Hammocks are also an essential part of life in the region and are available in a wide array of color combinations and fabrics.

Leather goods, including shoes, boots, belts, purses and luggage reflect Mexico's proud tradition of a fine craftsmanship and its high quality.

Mexican handicrafts are among the most sought-after items here, and you'll be able to choose from a large assortment of works by artisans from nearly everywhere in the Country. Reproductions of ancient native handicrafts, including jewelry, stone carvings; wooden masks and semiprecious-stone sculptures make wonderful souvenirs. You'll also find colonial-style items such as filigree jewelry, lacework and wood furniture. Interesting objects crafted from onyx, one of Mexico's major exports, are also widely available. Be sure to check out the vast selection of pottery in Cozumel's stores. Pottery art includes everything from unglazed clay pieces to beautiful stoneware crockery.

If you're looking for a souvenir T-shirt, you will have plenty of shops to choose from and with such a wide selection, you are sure to find the perfect one.

The major stores are usually open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. However, Cozumel observes the traditional Mexican custom of the afternoon siesta: many shops close for a few hours in the afternoon. When a cruise ship is in port, more stores tend to remain open during the siesta period. Most stores accept credit cards, U.S. dollars and traveler's checks.

Dining & Entertainment

With more than 90 different palate-pleasing restaurants and cafés to choose from, visitors to Cozumel are sure to find something to their liking. They can sample some authentic Mayan and Mexican dishes or choose from a number of international restaurants.

Intimate bars, dance clubs and discos sizzle until long after midnight. Clubs like 1.5 Tequila Lounge, Viva Mexico, Señor Frogs, Hard Rock Café and Carlos ‘n’ Charlie’s are some of the popular places where night by night hot tropical parties take place.

People on the go, on a budget or traveling with children will be happy to know that Cozumel also has it share of familiar fast food hamburger and pizza restaurants.

Events

Carnaval
Every year, since 1908, Cozumel has celebrated Carnaval, the island's time-honored pre-Lent festival. In Cozumel, grandparents, adults, teenagers and children alike come together to participate in the harmonically colorful and musical explosion. Within the Mexican-Caribbean, Cozumel displays the most popular and authentic Carnaval celebration, providing a more traditional and family-oriented event. Together, locals and visitors enjoy five days of fun that include parades, floats, traditional regional foods, music and dancing. The highlight of the festivities is the Comparsas Ball that features an incredible dance competition, not to be missed!

Feria del Cedral (Cedral Fair)
April 29 - May 3
The anniversary of the first Catholic mass in Mexico, which was celebrated in El Cedral. A more than 150 year old tradition, the fair at El Cedral is held every year during the first week of May to commemorate the Day of the Holy Cross, honoring the safe passage of the 11 founding families who fled the mainland to Cozumel in 1848 during La Guerra de Castas (The Caste War). At the fair, both residents and visitors can enjoy the many food stands, games, dancing and shopping displayed throughout this week-long festival. Particularly of note are the traditional “Head of the Boar” and “The Ribbons” dances which are performed on May 3rd, the Day of the Holy Cross (Día de la Santa Cruz ). The event also features cattle exhibitions, races, rides and bullfights.

Mexico Underwater Dive Show
Cozumel, one of the world's top dive destinations, will host “Mexico Underwater” - the country's first dive show. The international event, to be held May 12 to 14, will give dive industry professionals the opportunity to explore Mexico's amazing underwater environment and experience first-hand the fascinating marine life and natural treasures surrounding the country. The annual dive show will include educational seminars, news on dive technology, equipment information, travel opportunities and new product demos. As a tribute to ocean life, a film festival featuring award-winning underwater cinematography from around the world will be held, along with a photo contest. Dive operators, instructors, environmentalist, and members of the Mexican dive community are invited to participate.

34th Rodeo de Lanchas Mexicanas (MEXICAN BOAT RODEO)
May 13 - 14
Annual sport fishing tournament that brings together competitors from Mexico and around the world to fish for Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Wahoo, Dorado, Tuna, Barracuda and other game fish. More than a 100 boats participate in the event each year. Open to the general public, all are invited to take part in the tournament and participants simply need to register their boats in Mexico.

San Pedro y San Pablo Festival
June 29
A religious festival honoring Saint Peter and Saint Paul, complete with a fair, rides, food and craft shows.

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day)
September 15 - 16
A nationwide festival celebrating Mexican Independence Day. On September 15 local residents and visitors congregate around the City Hall to participate in the traditional “grito”, or cry for independence. Lead by the Mayor of Cozumel from the balcony at City Hall at 11:00 p.m., the cry “Viva Mexico” is made. Following the “grito” is an impressive fireworks display and other festivities including traditional foods as well as musical and folkloric dance performances. On September 16, Independence Day, the celebrations continue with a parade that goes through Cozumel's downtown waterfront. Throughout the week, residents and visitors are invited to visit a fair near the City Hall that includes food stands, games, dancing and shopping.

Fiestas de San Miguel Arcangel
September 21 – 29
One of Cozumel's most important religious festivals honoring San Miguel Arcángel, Saint Michael, Patron Saint of the island. The celebration begins on September 21, featuring colorful processions that start from the church of San Miguel and go throughout downtown, along with lively food and craft fairs. During this time, local residents attend mass and take part in daily processions wearing traditional Mayan outfits called “hipiles.” On the last day, a procession of fishermen carry an image of San Miguel Arcángel to the downtown pier and board a boat. The public accompanies the fisherman to the pier and board a ferry, surrounded by fishing boats, to join the procession by sea, throwing flowers into the ocean as they sail along.
Cozumel has honored San Miguel Arcángel as its Patron Saint since 1848 when Father Rejón, a priest from Chemax, Yucatan, arrived to Cozumel with new inhabitants and an image of Saint Michael. Prior to that, in 1526, Francisco de Montejo, a representative of the King of Spain, was authorized to conquer and develop the island of Cozumel and gave the island the Christian name of San Miguel de Cozumel.

Día de los muertos (Day of the Dead)
November 1 - 2
The history of the Day of the Dead dates back over 3,000 years ago. Life was seen as a dream and it was believed that only in dying was a human being truly awake and the soul set free. For the Day of the Dead, special altars are made with flowers, candles and food and are displayed in hotels, restaurants and other public places. The bakeries on the island are filled with sweets shaped in the symbols of skulls, and flowers and memorials fill the cemetery. Marigolds are particularly popular, a sacred orange flower that represents death.

November 1, Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints Day) is known as the day when the spirits of children are expected to return and Mexicans pay homage to the souls of the children who have passed on. Tradition states that the departed descend from the heavens on this day, so family members prepare for their arrival by leaving sugar skeletons, skulls and treats on altars specially made for the occasion. On November 2, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a celebration for all the adults that have passed away takes place. Families leave the favorite food and drink of the deceased on a special altar constructed in their home or on the tomb of the departed ancestor.

Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe
December 1 - 12
Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most popular celebrations in Mexico and Cozumel. Cozumeleños are very devoted to the Virgin of Guadalupe and every year an island-wide celebration takes place, Cozumelenian style. The celebration kicks off on the first day of December with a pilgrimage led through the island, by a variety of religious and non-religious organizations, to the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

On December 9, groups embark on another pilgrimage to the parish and celebrate a Thanksgiving mass. The festivities continue with a race around the island on December 11, with adults and children joyfully participating. The race begins at the Guadalupe Parish, crossing through the island to return to the Parish in time for a festival full of delicious regional foods, folkloric dances and musical performances. The celebration includes the traditional mariachi bands singing to the Virgin, Patroness of Mexico and Empress of America, throughout the day.

On December 12 several masses are held in the Parish and celebrations with regional foods, dance and music continue until the performances of the apparitions of the Virgin of Guadalupe on the Tepeyac cliff are held.

How to Get There

There are numerous daily domestic and international flights into Cozumel. Direct flights from the United States are available from Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Newark, and Philadelphia to name a few. For vacationers traveling between Mexico City and Cozumel, Mexicana Airlines offers daily flights.

Mexico Water Jets and Ultramar ferry passengers back and forth between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. The ferry operates continuously and the crossing takes approximately 35 minutes. A car ferry is also available and departs from Calica, which is five minutes away from Playa Del Carmen. The trip takes one hour and operates four times a day.

Travel Information

• Airport
  Cozumel International Airport is located 2 miles north of Downtown San Miguel. From the airport, frequent shuttle van transfers are available, transfer rates range from $7-$20 US per person (prices are subject to change).
  
• Arriving via Cancun Airport
  There are new modern buses to Playa del Carmen for $65.00 pesos per person one way. Buses run from the Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen from around 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and from Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport from around 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (prices are subject to change).
  
• Boat & Ferry Travel
  A passengers-only ferry sails to/from Playa del Carmen and Cozumel hourly from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The trip takes about 35 minutes; fare is $110.00 pesos per person one way. A four-times a day passenger and vehicle ferry leaves from Punta Venado or Calica Port, the trip takes one hour and fare starts at $60.00 US (prices and schedules are subject to change).
  
• Ground Transportation
  Taxi cabs runs 24 hours a day. The average fare between the northern hotel zone and downtown is about $7.00 US; $20.00 US from the southern hotel zone and $2.00 us within town (prices subject to change)
  
• Climate
  Average daily temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit. July and August temperatures range in the high 80s to low 90s. During December and January, average daytime temperature is mid 70s.
  
• Water Temperature
  Ranges from 77 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
  
• Population
  75,000
  
• Currency
  The Mexican peso. The exchange rate fluctuates daily. Most hotels and tourist spots accept international credit cards. Dollars are also widely accepted.
  
• Tipping
  The customary tip for service personnel is 10 to 15 percent.
  
• Language
  Spanish but English is also spoken island wide.
  
• Electricity
  110-volt/60 cycle.
  
• Time
  Central Daylight Savings.