Car Hire Cozumel - Mini guide to Cozumel

Cozumel, measuring 45kms long and 16kms wide. is Mexico's largest island. Situated 19kms off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the island is famous for its stunning powdery beaches and the remarkable clarity of the surrounding Caribbean Sea.

Cozumel was a sleepy fishing community until 1961, when Jacques Cousteau declared it one of the most beautiful scuba diving areas of the world, with its stunning 30- to 40-metre visibility. In addition to the impressive open water diving, the region of Cozumel and Akumal is well-known for the underground rivers which provide amazing cave and cavern diving.

Xel-Ha, a beautiful lagoon once sacred to the Maya, is now a National Underwater Park featuring an aquarium and offering sunning, swimming, snorkelling and dining amenities. There are three great beaches on the island; one is at Chankanaab National Park, while the other two, Playa San Francisco and Playa Palancar, are about 16kms away. The San Gervasio ruins date back to 100 BC, and are very popular with visitors from all over the world.

There is only one main town on the island: San Miguel de Cozumel. During the daytime when the cruise ships are docked, the town becomes quite busy. Additionally, you can take a short ride on the ferry to the mainland for shopping, dining and sightseeing. Snorkelers and scuba divers will not want to miss the spectacular Dos Ojos Cave System.

Several fascinating sites are found within an easy daytrip from Cozumel, including: the famous archaeological site of Chichén Itzá; Tulum (the only Mayan city built overlooking the sea); and Tikal, set among lush jungle settings.

The easiest way to get to Cozumel is to fly directly to the island’s international airport from the US, or fly to Cancun and transfer via Aero-Cozumel. Adventurous travellers can ride the water jet from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel; journey time is 35 minutes. Additionally, cruise ships make regular stops at the port.