Fewer Tours Are Available
One of the big changes youll find if you visit Cozumel in the near future is that the range of tours is greatly diminished.
On a typical Royal Caribbean cruise that includes a stop at Cozumel, there are more than 50 excursions available to purchase through the ship. On this weeks sailing, there were fewer than a dozen, and one didnt end up operating.
I initially signed up several weeks in advance of the sailing for a Mayan Ruins, Island Tour and Beach excursion that would last just over four hours. But I received an email just two days before the cruise telling me it had been canceled.
Once on board, I tried again by booking the four-hour ATV Ride and Beach Relaxation excursion . This one did end up operating as planned, despite intermittent rain and lightning in Cozumel on Wednesday.
Among the common Cozumel tours that werent available on this sailing were scuba diving, semi-submersible and Atlantis submarine trips helmet dives Xcaret theme park visits and monster Jeep tours.
The list of tours available included trips that brought snorkeling by catamaran or boat dune buggy riding, dolphin encounters and beach breaks.
How To Go To Paradise Beach From The Cruise Port On Your Own
Cozumel is a good port to plan your own excursion, especially if youre looking for a great beach day. To get to Paradise Beach youll simply take a cab or van from the cruise port taxi stand.
Rates are about $5 a person, a bit more or less depending on how many you are. As an example, our taxi ride was $16 per way for 3 people. There are taxi stands and rates are posted.
Note US dollars are taken
San Francisco Beach Club
Looking for the least expensive option on our list? That would be the San Francisco Beach Club, located about 10 minutes south of the cruise piers. The charge is $20 per person, and that includes umbrellas, lounger, pool access, wi-fi, snorkel gear and more. There are also showers and bathrooms for you to use.
If youre hungry or thirsty, food and drink isnt included in the price, but there is bar and restaurant options available. You can also book a ticket that includes these items. There are also other add-ons like snorkel tours and jet skis.
- Prices: $20 per person | All-inclusive for $40 per person
- Website:
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Sunscape Splash Montego Bay
What’s Included: Passes include access to resort pools, water slides, white-sand beaches, activities and games, and nonmotorized water sports. All meals and drinks are also included in the price, which is $80 per adult and $60 per child ages 3 to 12.
How to Get There: Transfers are available for an additional fee. Sunscape Splash Montego Bay is just a five-minute drive from the main port by taxi.
Best Things To Do In Cozumel On A Cruise Day
I love a day in Cozumel. From gorgeous uncrowded secluded beaches or famous beach clubs to world-class snorkeling or discovering authentic Mexican cuisine, theres so much to do in Cozumel on a cruise day. Ive narrowed down the list to places Ive seen, dined, shopped, and shore tours Ive taken.
Since your cruise ship is stopping in Cozumel for only one day, you better make the most your time! So lets get started. Here are my picks for some of the best things to do in Cozumel and what makes this tiny island so unique.
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Starfish Jolly Beach Resort
What’s Included: This resort in Antigua offers three day pass options. The standard day pass includes access to the resort from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., a continental breakfast, lunch, beverages and nonmotorized water sports. It costs $75 per adult and $45 for children ages 3 to 11. The all-day pass allows access from 10:15 a.m. until midnight and includes all of the above, plus dinner and nightly entertainment for $97 per adult and $59 per child. Lastly, there is an evening pass for use from 6 p.m. to midnight, which includes dinner, beverages and entertainment, priced at $70 per adult and $42 per child.
How to Get There: Jolly Beach is located about 20 minutes from port take a taxi.
Best Beaches Near Cozumel Cruise Port
Here you’ll find the seven best beaches in Cozumel near cruise port. When most people think of Cozumel, Mexico, they imagine white sandy beaches with miles of powder-white shoreline. Surprisingly, most Cozumel beaches are NOT pretty.
The majority of the island’s coastline is rocky. Only a few small sections offer the tropical beach experience most cruise passengers are hoping for.
Cozumel is a long and fairly narrow island just off the coast of Mexico. From north to south, the landmass is 30 miles long. From east to west Cozumel is only 10 miles wide. Much of the perimeter is lined with jagged rocks and not inviting to those wanting a day at the beach.
Of the few popular spots, some are good for snorkeling while others are best for lounging in the sun. We’re here to lay out the seven best beaches in Cozumel near cruise port. Whether you’re looking for a private beach getaway, a convenient place for your family, or an underwater snorkeling adventure, we’ll have your best beach option below.
In general, the west side of Cozumel has much calmer water. It’s also protected allowing coral to thrive. The east side has much larger waves and stronger currents.
This makes it worse for swimming and snorkeling, but great for sweeping ocean vistas. Your options on this far side of the island also have much smaller crowds than west-side beaches near Cozumel cruise port.
Cruise Itineraries to Cozumel, Mexico
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What Beach For Cruise Passengers
Hi everyone!! I will be in Cozumel next Saturday for the day. We will be on the Enchantment of the Seas. I want to go to the beach, something that has beach chairs, bar/restaurant, live music if possible and waverunners for rent. Any suggestions? And how to get there? Take a cab?
Or should I do a tour to one of the beaches that is all inclusive?
Thanks for your help!
I have the same question.
Playa Mia gets a lot cruise ship folks and has plenty of amenities as does Mr Sanchos. Either one of those is slightly more separate than the clubs at Carlos n Charlies./Paradise.
Don’t know whether any have live music.
You can certainly take a taxi there and do it on your own if you wish.
Playa Paradise
Playa San Francisco
The above are all pretty much the same product with minor variations, offer lots of opportunities to do things and cater to the cruise ship industry.
PM me with your email address and I’ll send you our beach reviews that have been updated since last month.
In other words – don’t show up with a cooler and lunch from the ship.
Since it is a very sandy beach, there is no real snorkling but there are waverunners for $55 1/2 hour. If you want to take a snorkle tour, Tom will call a boat to come and get you.
Taxi from the International Pier is $14 per taxi, but make sure you secure the rate before taking a cab back to the port. This is the only place in Cozumel where I’ve had a problem with the waiting drivers charging more than is normal.
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
What’s Included: Three categories of passes are available, providing access from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for $90, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. for $105 and a full-day pass for $195. No kids’ rates are available since Sandals is an adults-only couples resort. Rates include access to all on-property entertainment, meals and drinks.
How to Get There: The resort is a 15-minute taxi ride from the cruise port.
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Iberostar Cozumel Hotel Resort
Among the most attractive features of this 5-star hotel, a freshwater lake pool surrounded by palm trees and palapas is at par with its white sand beach and one of the best tropical reefs in Cozumel close by. A separate kiddies pool maintains the laid-back atmosphere for grown-ups looking to relax. The hotel is Wheelchair accessible and offers FREE Wi-Fi.
Where: South West Coast – Located 11 miles from Puerta Maya and 14 miles from Punta Langosta Terminal Getting There: Puerta Maya – around $20 for 1-4 guests | International Pier – around $20 for 1-4 guests | Punta Langosta – around $25 for 1-4 guests . Open: Everyday 9 AM to 5 PM.Activities: Snorkeling | Kayaking | Catamarans | Fitness Center Day Pass Price: starting at $65.00 Website: Official Site
Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
What’s Included: The day passes offered at this Aruba resort include transportation to the resort’s private island, as well as lunch, a drink and dessert. Access to the private island begins at 7 a.m., and the last boat leaves at 6:45 p.m. beach towels are provided. The day pass costs $125 per adult kids ages 6 to 12 pay half-price and children under 6 can visit the island for free. Food and other amenities are extra.
How to Get There: This resort is just a quarter-mile from the cruise port, and it’s walkable.
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Grand Park Royal Cozumel
Ask your travel agent which all-inclusive resort will give you easy access to a gorgeous beach and they will point you here. Grand Park Royal has more than 300 rooms on the property that give off that laid-back vibe. Aside from being close to the main cruise terminal, this resort offers several dining options and an open-air atmosphere too.
Although the rooms here are not that spectacular, they have private balconies at your disposal. If you are traveling with the family, pick their Family Suites as they are more spacious. In addition, their inclusive package includes the price of the hotel room, food, and live entertainment. Also, they have non-motorized water sports here which the whole family will enjoy. Take advantage of their infinity pools if you want to rest and relax in the resort.
Asking some friends who stayed here and they said that the beach is a very, very small beach. Many were a little disappointed even after looking at the photos. Most brought water shoes since there are rocks on the beach as you walk into the water. Many said they went snorkeling here. Most people loved the adult pool bar area, coffee shop, restaurants, the grounds , and the friendly staff. Its a great resort!
Mr Sancho’s Beach Club
Carnival cruise passengers love this club with its long beach, ocean kayaks, lockers, beach chairs, side tables with umbrellas, swim up pool bar, fresh water showers, changing rooms, beach volleyball, ping pong and hammocks.
Where: Located on the South West Coast, 10 miles from downtown or 7 miles south of Puerta Maya. Taxi fares to get there: From Puerta Maya – around $17 for 1-4 guests | From International Pier – around $17 for 1-4 guests | From Punta Langosta – around $25 for 1-4 guests . Open hours: Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM | Closed on Sunday.Activities: Snorkel | Shopping | Massages | Hair Braiding | Parasailing | Jet Skis | Water Park | Jungle ATV Tours | Horseback Riding Day Pass Price: Starting at $50 Website: www.mrsanchos.com
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Melia Cozumel All Inclusive Details
Is the Melia Cozumel all inclusive? Yes
How much does it cost for a resort day pass to the Melia Cozumel?
- Adult Price: $70
- Child Price: $49
How far is the Melia from Cozumel Cruise Port?
- Punta Langosta: 13 minute taxi
- International Pier : 20 minute taxi
- Puerta Maya: 22 minute taxi
How much is a taxi from my Cozumel Cruise Port to and from the Melia Cozumel?
- Punta Langosta: $8
During which hours can I use my Resort Day Pass at Melia Cozumel? 9am – 6pm
Does Melia Cozumel have Wifi? Wifi is accessible in the hotel lobby.
Does Melia Cozumel have child attractions? Yes, the Melia offers more child entertainment options than most other options. Included in your stay, children are offered a pirate-themed park, batting cage, archery games, paintball target shooting, Flinstones Land , video games zone and Mini-golf .
Is there a waterpark at Melia Cozumel? No.
Does my Melia Cozumel Day Pass include snorkeling? Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided.
Does my Melia Cozumel pass include other water sports equipment? Yes, your cost includes access to non-motorized equipment including kayaks, windsurfing gear, and Hobie Cats.
What other attractions can I expect with my Melia Cozumel All Inclusive pass? You’ll have access to a tennis court, basketball court, soccer court, gym, and mini golf course .
Are there any other amenities available with a surcharge?
You can purchase a couples massage and rent a Jet ski .
Is the property wheelchair accessible? Yes
Allegro Cozumel All Inclusive Details
Is Allegro Cozumel all inclusive? Yes
How much does it cost for a resort day pass to Allegro Cozumel?
- Adult Price: $60
- Child Price: $30
How far is the Allegro Cozumel from my Cozumel Cruise Port?
- Punta Langosta: 25 minute taxi ride
- International Pier : 16 minute taxi ride
- Puerta Maya: 16 minute taxi ride
How much is a taxi from my Cozumel Cruise Port to the Allegro Cozumel?
- Punta Langosta: $24
For what hours can I use my Resort Day Pass at Allegro Cozumel? 9am – 5pm
Does Allegro Cozumel have Wifi? No
Does Allegro Cozumel have child attractions? Allegro Cozumel has a Kids Club, small playground area, and hosts supervised activities for children between the ages of 4-12 years old.
Is there a waterpark at Allegro Cozumel? No
Does my Allegro Cozumel Day Pass include snorkeling? Yes, snorkeling equipment is included with your day pass.
Does my Allegro Cozumel pass include other water sports equipment? You’ll find non-motorized equipment available for free with your pass. Included are kayaks, sailing equipment and windsurfing gear.
What other attractions can I expect with my Allegro Cozumel All Inclusive pass? The property offers three tennis courts, one volleyball court, and a health area including a gym, sauna, and jacuzzi.
Is the property wheelchair accessible? Yes
Does the Allegro Cozumel have a swim up bar? Yes
Are towels included with my excursion? Yes
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Paradise Beach Menu Food And Drinks Menu
The menu is quite reasonable if you are ordering a la carte. Most meals are priced in the range of about $10-15 USD. Theres a restaurant and beach taco stand.
Frozen drinks and cocktails were $8.50 for a good size cup or about $15 for a souvenir yard size glass.
We enjoyed a couple of nacho platters with melted cheese, refried beans and salsa when in Mexico -).
We arent super big eaters when we are off the ship, but do need something to go with drinks.
Rated #1 Cozumel Tours With Cozumel Cruise Excursions
Cozumel Cruise Excursions is a family owned and operated Tour Operator in Cozumel, that offers Small Group & Private Tours. Our Cozumel Excursions are only offered on our website, because we exclusively own and operate them. Our family makes sure to create a unique experience to suite our guests interests, schedule and especially their budget. Our exclusive Cozumel shore excursions have Top Rated tour reviews on our TripAdvisor page. We do offer other great attractions that we do not own, but only if they have high customer reviews and an outstanding reputation. We have been providing tours in Cozumel Mexico for over 20 years. Our family has worked hard to make sure our guests have an amazing time during their trip to Cozumel Island. We want to make sure that we are the highlight of your vacation in Cozumel. We don’t believe you should have to pay for something you didn’t take advantage of, and thats why we have our “NO TOUR, NO FEE” policy, so our guests don’t get stuck paying for a tour they never took. We really do have the best tours for the lowest prices Guaranteed. You can feel confident knowing you booked with the #1 tour operator in Cozumel Island Mexico on a secured website. – By: John A.
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Nachi Cocom All Inclusive Details
Is the Nachi Cocom all inclusive? Yes
How much does it cost for a resort day pass to the Nachi Cocom?
- Adult Price: $55
- Child Price: $19
How far is the Melia from Cozumel Cruise Port?
- Punta Langosta: 20 minute taxi
- International Pier : 15 minute taxi
- Puerta Maya: 15 minute taxi
How much is a taxi from my Cozumel Cruise Port to and from the Nachi Cocom?
- Punta Langosta: $18
During which hours can I use my Resort Day Pass at Nachi Cocom? 8am – 5pm
Does Nachi Cocom have Wifi? Wifi is available at a cost of $5.
Does Nachi Cocom have child attractions? No, the property caters to adults more so than younger cruisers.
Is there a waterpark at Nachi Cocom? No.
Does my Nachi Cocom Day Pass include snorkeling? No. They do offer a $38 snorkeling tour with equipment.
Does my Nachi Cocom pass include other water sports equipment? No.
What other attractions can I expect with my Nachi Cocom All Inclusive pass? None.
Are there any other amenities available with a surcharge?
Available for a premium, you’ll find a Snorkel Tour , Beach Massage , and Photo Package .
Is the property wheelchair accessible? Yes
Does the Nachi Cocom have a swim up bar? Yes
Are towels included with my excursion? No.
Can I cancel this shore tour? No. If your port stop is changed, you will be refunded but cannot voluntarily cancel this excursion.
Hint: Excursions Are Likely To Sell Out Book Now
Snorkeling and scuba diving among Caribbean marine life, exploring Mayan ruins in Tulum, sipping on the finest Mexican tequila on Punta Sur or Palancar beach. These are just a few of the many reasons to go on a Cozumel cruise excursion. When you step off your cruise ship, you’ll see firsthand why Cozumel Island is one of Mexico’s most popular and incredibly breathtaking Caribbean destinations. This lovely paradise was first settled by the Mayans when they arrived on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula. The absolute magnificence of this beautiful region can only be truly appreciated by experiencing a shore excursion. Whether by air, land, or sea, exploring the island on one of our excursions is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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