Considered as one of the most widely known destinations in Mexico for its natural beauty and great variety in water sports, Cozumel is not only important for all the economic advantages that it represents as a tourism destination in Mexico, but also for the importance of its huge protected area which provides a survival opportunity for some endemic species that lives within this beautiful island located in the Caribbean just off the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico.

Cozumel's mostly undeveloped territory at the center of the island is covered by jungle and swampy lagoons, which are home to tiny mammals and endemic birds that have never left the island. Noteworthy is the Chankanaab National Park, a Cozumel icon, and the Punta Sur Ecological Reserve.

This huge protected area at the southern tip of the island includes Punta Celarain and its historical lighthouse, as well as the Colombia Lagoon, a shelter for many of the island's endemic species, as well as other endangered forms of life, such as marine turtles and their nesting areas.

Cozumel has great beaches, nice people, and safe streets, with prices comparable to other Mexican tourist destinations.

Cozumel was considered by ancient Mayans to be the home of Ixchel, the goddess of love and fertility. Each year between May 30th and June 1st, the Sacred Mayan Crossing is held here. The participants start out from Xcaret in wooden canoes and paddle across to the San Gervasio's archeological site, in order to worship Ixchel.

The following activities are some of the main Cozumel attractions

Chankanaab Lagoon

A marine inlet allowing snorkelers to swim among hundreds of rainbow colored fish. With its transparent water, is a part of Cozumel's heritage.

The Cedral

Cedral, an agricultural village near the island’s center, was the first Mayan site found by Spanish explorers in 1518, and its ruins are among the easiest to reach on the island. Not much remains, but a small arched structure has traces of paint inside. Admission is free. KM 17.5, about 2 miles off the main road.

San Gervasio Ruins

San Gervasio, the most visited among Cozumel’s ruins, is a major 10-acre excavation in a forested area. Dedicated to the fertility goddess Ixchel, this one-time capital has plaques identifying each of the ruins in both Spanish and English. The so-called “hands” temple has red hand imprints covering the altar.

Museum of the Island of Cozumel

Established to offer a better understanding of the island’s geography, geology, history, and natural growth, the museum describes the natural terrestrial and submarine environments and presents a panorama of flora and fauna. Also recounted are historical events, starting with the pre-Hispanic epoch when Cozumel was a shrine visited by pilgrims to venerate Ix-Chel, the Maya goddess of love, fertility, weaving, and the moon. The museum also has a casual restaurant, located on the second-floor terrace, that offers breakfast and sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea.

Beaches

Beach retreats abound on the island and two of the more popular are Playa Corona (where rental snorkeling equipment is available) and Playa San Francisco (often packed with cruise passengers and with two outdoor restaurants, a bar, volley bar and an array of other amenities.)