Cozumel Attractions: Things to do in Cozumel, Mexico

In Mayan language, the term Cozumel means 'Island of the Swallows'. Located off the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Caribbean sea, southeast of Cancun and east of Playa Del Carmen, Mexico, Cozumel is a combination of cosmopolitan hotels, restaurants, shops, modern parks, beautiful beaches and reefs. The island has healthy coral reefs, which is the major reason for its fascinating water related attractions. Majority of the population live on the west coast, in the town of San Miguel. Almost the entire island is covered with dense vegetation, making it a major eco-tourism spot. People speak Spanish and celebrate a major festival every April, in the town of El Cedral. The festival was started almost 150 years ago, and is a must see for travelers. Some other attractions of Cozumel are:

Chankanaab Park

Chankanaab Park is located inside the famous Reefs National Marine Park which is to the south of San Miguel. It also boasts of having the only inland coral reef formation in the world. Chankanaab Lagoon is another attraction which is a natural aquarium and eco-system, featuring more than 60 species of tropical fish, crustaceans and corals. Some other attractions of the park are:

• Dolphin Discovery, where people can swim and play games with dolphins. Kids usually don't miss this chance of a dolphin encounter.
• The Maya Zone is place where people can learn about the ancient Mayan culture and civilization. It is a reproduction of Mayan Villages.
• The Sea Lion, a display of exciting stunts by sea lions.
• A Botanical Garden, where 350 different plant species can be found.

Punta Sur Light House

The lighthouse is one of the most interesting features of Cozumel. Attached to it is a navigation museum which displays the evolution of seamanship and navigation from Mayan to present times. El Caracol is a well preserved ancient structure near the lighthouse, which was used by the Mayans to signal the approach of a storm or hurricane.

The Museum of the Island of Cozumel

The museum is located in the town of San Miguel. It exhibits the island's history, natural environment and reefs. It has four exhibition halls, dioramas, sculptures and guides who can speak in English, Spanish and Mayan. Keeping in mind that a large number of tourists visit it, the museum has a casual restaurant on the second floor, which also gives a spectacular view of the Caribbean.

Playa Uvas

This is a place people look forward to, when in Cozumel. Here one can enjoy kayak tours, guided shore snorkel Chankanaab reef tours, and scuba diving. Scuba diving for certified people as well as beginners is available. Or if one wants to relax or enjoy a massage, the lounge area near the pools are perfect spots, with cool Caribbean breeze flowing across the pools. One can also enjoy shopping in stores where you get traditional Mexican craft.

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

This is another water park where you can enjoy various water activities like diving, banana rides, para sailing, wave runners, sunfish sailboats, pedal boats and water trampolines. The park also has an incredible beach iceberg, a zoo, a must see underwater Mayan city, beach toys, etc. It is advisable to plan a full day's trip to Playa Mia Grand Beach Park.

These are but a few of the splendid Cozumel attractions which will just leave you awestruck. People plan family vacations to visit Cozumel and have a real good time, as it has everything for kids as well as adults to enjoy. A vacation to Cozumel won't be like a prosaic trip to any island, instead it will be all fun and enjoyment.