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Most violence seems to stay on the mainland and away from the popular tourist areas. For finding the right spot, we recommend just checking out the menus as you pass. Most restaurants have menus posted outside where you can see if it fits what you want to eat and your budget. But if you’re anywhere near the ports or water, you’ll find all sorts of options. Just behind that sign is a spot to access the water if you want to swim with the cruise ships in the background.
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As if Cozumel doesn't have enough pristine beachfront, many day trippers to the island like to pop over to the nearby uninhabited Isla Pasion. The dreamy island has crystal-clear water, sun-bleached sand, and plenty of activities to keep visitors occupied, from kayaks and hammocks to beach volleyball, buffet-style restaurants, and bars. Lots of cruise lines also offer packages for excursions to Isla Pasion, so it's easy to squeeze in a visit. Cozumel has three piers, all of which are found on the built-up western side of the island. The International Pier, the oldest cruise ship pier on the island, is located about 3 miles from San Miguel (a long but scenic and safe walk). Carnival Corp.'s Puerta Maya, located about 5 miles from San Miguel, acts as a standalone destination, with restaurants, jewelry stores, local craft carts and a beach.
Cozumel Restaurants & Bars Right at the Cruise Port
In this area, you meet your tour operators for the tours, and ferries normally come to the terminal to pick up the cruise passengers joining the ship shore excursions. If you are taking the mainland tour, the ferry picks you up at the pier (no need to go to the San Miguel ferry terminal). However, if you decide to go to the mainland on your own, you need to take a taxi to the ferry terminal in San Miguel. Port RestaurantsWe mentioned above that the International and Puerta Maya piers have enclosed areas that cater to cruise passengers. Even Punta Langosta in downtown San Miguel funnels you to a similar area. These spots all have restaurants catering to cruise passengers that want to have a good time.
Head to the beach clubs.
The roads that do exist in this particular area can't be accessed by car. You can’t see all of Mexico during your cruise, but this little stop will allow you to at least feel like you did. The tour at Discover Mexico Park will allow you to experience the taste, culture, history, heritage, art, and music of Mexico. There are miniature scale models of famous sites from around Mexico and a tour guide will talk you through some of this country’s most important landmarks. Some of the most incredible caves are found on the mainland at Rio Secreto, where adventurers can explore a picturesque underwater river.
Along the way, you’ll see waterfront restaurants and bars on the other side of the street but be extra careful when you cross the busy road. If your ship docks at this port, you will be in the center of it all and only a few minutes walk to downtown San Miguel, the largest city on the island. It features plenty of shops and restaurants including internationally recognized shopping brands. The best place to shop at in this pier is at Los Cincos Soles. A unique shop, that sells authentic wares sourced from all over Mexico. It also offers a much-needed escape from the intense heat in Cozumel.
There are over 50 different outlets for shopping, from jewelry to apparel, and 15 stand-alone carts where local merchants sell colorful handmade crafts and souvenirs. For restaurants, there are several options available offering local and international cuisine. As aforementioned, the cruise port in Cozumel includes three terminals named Punta Langosta, International Cruise Terminal and Puerta Maya. Note that some cruise lines use two or all of these terminals, so be sure to check your itinerary carefully to make sure you have the right terminal. You don’t’ even have to leave the cruise terminal to find places to shop, but do yourself and the Cozumel locals a favor by venturing out and shopping from local vendors. T-shirts and trinkets are incredible affordable and I haven’t found shop owners to be too pushy compared to other ports.
In some cases, you may need to take a tender boat to the port, but that is uncommon. Most ships visiting Cozumel will dock at one of the three ports. As an island, it’s quieter than some of the more popular areas in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, like Cancun.
If you’re anywhere that tourists go, you’ll be able to hail a cab whenever the ships are in port. International PierRight next to the Puerta Maya Pier, but just to the north, is the International Pier. It often serves Royal Caribbean ships, including their large Oasis-class ships. Just like its sister pier, the International Pier also has a small “city” that caters to cruise passengers (but you can’t go between the two ports).
Cozumel Cruise Port Shopping Guide – Best Local Shopping Near Each Cruise Pier
Whether you’re in search of handcrafted jewelry, traditional textiles, or the finest tequila, Cozumel’s shopping scene promises an array of treasures waiting to be uncovered. The wider Yucatán region, with its rich tapestry of nature, culture, and history, offers a multitude of excursions that are well worth the extra mile. These excursions, a bit further afield, offer unique experiences and can provide a richer, deeper understanding of the Yucatán Peninsula’s allure. From its Mayan roots and ecological wonders to interactions that will make your heart race, Cozumel’s must-visit spots are bound to etch lasting memories in the heart of every explorer.
A great way to ensure the preservation of the reef is to take only pictures and memories and leave only bubbles. All these beaches are perfect to enjoy the clear waters, the tropical weather and nature and to relax under the sun. Exploring beyond the well-trodden paths can lead you to uncover some truly enchanting experiences – from secluded beaches to authentic local taco spots. The Atlantis Submarine Cozumel experience is another of the many activities on the island that’s great for families. Located right next to the Del Mar Latino Beach Club (highlighted, above), so a very easy walk from either cruise facility.
Hotels and development block off each access to get to the water. There are a couple of beaches nearby, but you’re usually best off just going to an all-inclusive where there are open beaches and facilities. For a quieter time, try Pancho’s Backyard if you are at Puerta Maya.
World's Largest Cruise Ship In Cozumel - This is Cozumel
World's Largest Cruise Ship In Cozumel.
Posted: Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
If you’re willing to pay more, you can even make your own Mayan chocolate. The store itself is spacious and is known for its beautiful artwork, bowls, magnets, tiles, jewelry, ceramics, and exquisite, hand-painted Talavera pottery—a local art tradition. Some parts of El Cielo have such shallow waters that you can stand on your feet without any trouble. El Cielo is an excellent choice for beginner divers, featuring pristine, turquoise waters and an abundance of marine creatures. Although Paradise Reef is reachable from the shore, it is advised to take a boat, especially if you’re a beginner. Paradise Reef is shallower and more beginner-friendly when compared to other reefs on the island, with a maximum depth of around 40 ft (12 m).
Be on the lookout for the promotional offers that are offered on the gangway as you disembark. And grab beautiful diamond jewelry at Diamonds International or airtightly sealed rum cake, that can last up to 6 months. Making it easier to grab some personal effects while at the place. You can visit this port from the nearby Punta Langosta port via walking, with a scooter or any other vehicular means available. If you want to walk from Punta Langosta or the ferry pier to this place, do so early in the morning when the weather is cool.
Before you visit, use a currency converter to make sure you have enough money on hand. If you plan on paying for your goods and services via credit or debit card, keep in mind that many places — including taxis — may accept cash only. Call your card company before you begin spending and let them know you’re out of the country so they do not freeze your account for suspicious activity. If you plan to visit from August through October, you'll be traveling during peak hurricane season. Travel prices are at their lowest during this time, so you'll want to use those extra savings to get yourself some travel insurance, just in case you get rained out.
If you want more of a relaxed day by the beach, you’ll appreciate the vast selection of beach chairs, umbrellas, hammocks, and cabanas available. Some of the best things to do at the park include strolling in the gardens, watching sea lions and crocodiles, and swimming with dolphins or manatees. Don’t forget to try the tequila tasting and enjoy the swimming pools.
After a career working on some mighty fine design projects in NYC, she took a gap year to pursue her divemaster training in Cozumel...and hasn't quite made it back, yet. For details on the Cozumel Trolley experience and other quirky ways to see the island, check out this related post here. Public art along the Malecón adds even more cultural shine to San Miguel, and while many of us locals take it for granted after a while, really speaks to the history and art that infuses most of Mexican life.
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