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🧳 Essential Travel Tips for Cozumel

🧳 Essential Travel Tips for Cozumel

🗓️ 1. Best Time to Visit

November to April – Sunny, dry, and perfect for beach days, snorkeling, and exploring the island.

Shoulder seasons (May & October) mean fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.

Avoid June to September if you’re not a fan of tropical rain showers — though they’re usually short and followed by sunshine.


🧭 2. Getting Around

  • Easily navigable – The main town of San Miguel is walkable, especially along the waterfront.

  • Rent a scooter, car, or bike to explore beaches and hidden spots around the island.

  • Taxis – Readily available, safe, and priced by zone (ask for the fare before getting in).

  • Ferries – Convenient for day trips to Playa del Carmen or the mainland.


🛂 3. Safety Tips

  • Cozumel is very safe, especially in tourist and resort areas.

  • Keep an eye on belongings at busy beaches, markets, and ferry terminals.

  • Avoid isolated beaches late at night.

  • Emergency number in Mexico: 911


💰 4. Money & Tipping

  • Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)

  • US dollars are accepted in many places, but pesos often get you a better rate.

  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is essential for taxis, beach clubs, and small shops.

  • Tipping guide:

    • Restaurants: 10–15%

    • Hotel staff: 20–50 MXN

    • Dive/snorkel guides: 10%+


🌡️ 5. Climate & Weather

  • Tropical island climate with warm temperatures year-round.

  • Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take shade breaks during midday heat.

  • Light clothing for the day, but a light sweater can be handy for cooler evenings in the winter months.


💬 6. Language

  • Spanish is the official language, but English is common in tourist zones, dive shops, and restaurants.

  • Learn a few phrases to connect with locals:

    • Gracias (thank you)

    • ¿Cuánto cuesta? (how much?)

    • Una cerveza, por favor (one beer, please 😉)


📶 7. Internet & Connectivity

  • Most hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs offer free Wi-Fi.

  • Consider getting a Telcel SIM card or eSIM if you need data while exploring.


🍽️ 8. Food & Water

  • Tap water is not safe to drink — stick to bottled or filtered water.

  • Street food and market stalls are generally safe if they’re busy and well-reviewed.

  • Don’t miss local dishes like cochinita pibil, ceviche, and fresh caribbean-style fish tacos.


🛍️ 9. What to Pack

  • Comfortable sandals or walking shoes

  • Snorkeling gear (or rent locally)

  • Sun protection – Hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses

  • Swimwear (you’ll need more than one set!)

  • Bug spray for evenings near the water


📸 10. Cultural Etiquette

  • Greet locals with a friendly “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes”

  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches or cultural sites

  • Be respectful of marine life — no touching coral, and avoid harmful sunscreens

  • Support local businesses by shopping at artisan markets and eating at family-owned restaurants