The majestic island of Cozumel in the Caribbean Sea and off the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula is a paradise treasure to behold, where starfish litter the ocean floor and crisp white sand welcomes travelers from across the world.

The town is brimming with history, while there is no end to the list of water-based adventures awaiting you on the island. Join a day trip to Cozumel from Cancún to exchange the party city for a pristine beach escape.

Here's all you need to know about Cozumel, one of the most exciting day trips from Cancún.

How to get to Cozumel from Cancún?

Cozumel is roughly 30 kilometers off the coast of Playa del Carmen, a town south of Cancún.

From Cancún to Cozumel by car

There is no direct road to Cozumel and you will have to take a ferry to get to the island. Drive south from Cancún for an hour on road 307 and park in Carmen del Playa. Take the ferry from the ferry docks for another 45 minutes to reach Cozumel.

Guided tour to Cozumel from Cancún

This is the most stress-free way to enjoy a day trip to Cozumel. Navigating ground transportation and a ferry is an unnecessary hassle and a guided tour can take care of everything.

What is the typical itinerary?

A day trip to Cozumel starts with an early morning hotel pick-up in Cancún, departing around 7 AM. You will take the ferry from Playa del Carmen and the first activity for the day is a glass-bottom boat snorkeling tour.

After hours of fun in the sun, you will enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant before exploring the historic town of Cozumel. Head back to shore and enjoy a last bit of shopping on Playa del Carmen’s Quinta Avenida road before departing to Cancún.

If you want to see more of the island on dry land, you can take a jeep tour of Cozumel’s rugged southern coast. Stop off at a remote beach to snorkel to a barrier reef before enjoying lunch at a family-owned restaurant. Buggy tours are also a fun way to zoom around the island, with stops for a tequila tasting along the way.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Cozumel?

Guided day tours to Cozumel are the most popular way to explore the island, with a variety of activities on offer once you make it to shore.

Guided tours to Cozumel from Cancún

Guided group tours are a great way to explore Cozumel on a day trip. A well-thought-out itinerary covers all your bases and you will snorkel, eat and shop your way through the island without having to arrange a thing.

There are several tours to choose from to spend most of the day at sea, snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming in the crystal clear waters. These tour groups keep their numbers low, allowing you a more relaxed journey and plenty of time to enjoy all the sights of the island without having to wait for large groups to gather.

Jeep or buggy guided tour to Cozumel from Cancún

For an even more adrenaline-packed excursion to Cozumel from Cancún, consider booking a tour that also includes a jeep or buggy tour. After you have spent the day snorkeling at sea, you can then take to the roads and discover the island's majestic beauty.

Your expert local guide will show you around the tropical forests of the island for an unforgettable experience. Depending on the tour that you book, you may be offered a pickup from your accommodation in Cancún to make things easier.

How much does a day trip to Cozumel from Cancún cost?

A basic snorkeling tour day trip to Cozumel costs around US$120 per person. This includes all your transportation, lunch and a few drinks on board. This usually does not include your conservation fee at the marine reserve.

Jeep and buggy tours cost around US$150 per person, which also includes the use of snorkeling equipment.

What will you see and do?

Cozumel is a natural treasure trove and everything on land and in the sea is simply spectacular. Many tours focus on the underwater treasures of Cozumel, with hours of snorkeling on offer. You can also travel in a clear boat to see these gems without getting wet.

The tropical forests of Cozumel are equally spectacular and a buggy or Jeep tour will take you through the heart of the island and into its remote corners. You will also be treated to a delectable local lunch to get a taste of the island and refuel before the adventure continues.

When is the best time to visit Cozumel?

The best time for a day tour to Cozumel is between March and June, as you can expect pleasant temperatures and little chance of rain. November and December are the peak season and Cozumel becomes very busy, while September and October are the rainiest months and there are hurricane warnings over this time.

Travel tips

Bring your ID or passport to confirm your age on tours that include a tequila tasting.
Let your tour operator know in advance if you have dietary restrictions. Many tours include lunch and you must arrange ahead of time if you need changes made.
Bring your swimsuit, towel and sunscreen.

Cozumel: Day Trips and Tours from Cancún