About Cozumel

Cozumel Beach Cozumel-Getaways is located on the stunning Island of Cozumel in Quintana Roo, Mexico. The island of Cozumel lies a little over 11 miles off of the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, formed by coralline limestone rock and sandy soils. Measuring over 32 miles long and just under 9 miles wide, it’s been called “Mexico’s window on the Caribbean.”

The word “Cozumel” is derived from an old Mayan name, Cuzamil, which means “land of the swallows.” It’s Mexico’s largest Caribbean Island, as well as the most inhabited island in the country.

Cozumel’s climate is subtropical, with an average temperature of 76º F. In July and August, the high temperatures range from the upper 80s to the low 90s (32°C). In December and January, the daytime temperatures average in the mid-70s (24° C). The moderate climate and abundant rainfall help foster a lush rainforest filled with a wide variety of trees, flowers, and wildlife. The water temperature averages 77 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 85 in summer. Located in the central time zone, Cozumel’s sunrises and sunsets are like nothing you’ve ever experienced. World renown for its dazzling, white sandy beaches and the remarkable clarity of the multi-hued azure Caribbean ocean in which it rests, Cozumel is the best place to enjoy relaxing Caribbean getaways.

Cozumel vacation getaways are perfect for any escape. Whether your experience in Cozumel Mexico is shared with family, significant other or a few good friends, there is something for everyone on Caribbean Island getaways.

Cozumel’s History

For the ancient Mayans, Cozumel was a sacred place, believed to be the sanctuary of the Mayan fertility goddess X’chel. It was a major destination for religious pilgrims from as far away as central Mexico and parts of Central America.

The Spaniards discovered the island in the 16th century, and in the years that followed it became a haven for pirates and buccaneers. (Scuba divers can still explore the wreckage of some unlucky Spanish galleons.) By 1700 it was uninhabited.

Cozumel Fishing In the 19th century, Cozumel became embroiled in a Mayan insurrection that began in the Yucatan. Refugees fled the mainland for the relative safety of the island, and when the rebellion was finally defeated, Cozumel emerged from its isolation to eventually become one of Mexico’s most important eastern ports.

Tourism became a mainstay of Cozumel’s economy beginning in the 1950s. With the discovery of its fantastic underwater coral reefs, scuba divers began flocking to the island on a new kind of pilgrimage . . . and they’ve been coming ever since.

Today, Cozumel is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations, visited by over 2 million tourists every year.

Touring the Island

Cozumel Island San Miguel, Cozumel’s largest town, sits on the island’s western shore. Beautiful white sand beaches dot Cozumel, particularly the eastern shore. Toward the island’s center lies San Gervasio, the largest archeological site on Cozumel. The island’s southernmost point is home to Punta Sur, a marvelously diverse ecological park.

Getting around Cozumel is fairly easy. If you’re planning on covering a lot of the island, you can rent a car or take a taxi. For shorter distances, you can also rent bicycles or mopeds. And, of course, a brisk walk or two is a great way to work off some of the exquisite meals you’ll find in the many restaurants in and around San Miguel’s central plaza.

One of the lesser known, but very interesting sites here on the island is San Gervacio. Now a park with a restoration project to study the Mayan culture, this was once a sacred site where Mayan women journeyed to worship the goddess Ixchel, the goddess of fertility. Other fascinating sites such as Chichen Itza with its massive pyramids that rival those at Cheops, and Tulum, the only Mayan city built overlooking the sea add to the grandeur of Cozumel getaways. Tikal in its lush jungle settings where wild monkeys still can be seen is an easy one day excursion from Cozumel and something that shouldn’t be missed.

Something for Everyone

With its mild climate, crystal clear water, rich history, lush natural landscape and friendly residents, Cozumel is a traveler’s dream. For more information on Cozumel’s events, activities and businesses, please click on the links provided. Or, better yet, come discover them for yourself.