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Isla Cozumel, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, measures 53km (33mi) by 14km (9mi) and sits 71km (44mi) south of Cancún. It's 19km (12mi) off of the Yucatán Peninsula's east coast. The island's only town, San Miguel de Cozumel, is easily traversed by foot. Its waterfront boulevard is Avenida Rafael Melgar; along Melgar south of the main ferry dock (the 'Muelle Fiscal') is a narrow sand beach. The main plaza, Plaza del Sol, is just opposite the dock.
Ancient Mayan ruins worth visiting lie in the north and south parts of the island. The nicest beaches, Playas San Francisco and Palancar, start 14km (9mi) south of San Miguel, while the world-famous coral reefs are off the island's southern shores. Much of the east and northeast region of the island is 4WD territory - and provides great opportunity for peaceful escape.
The airport is a mere 2km (1mi) north of town; there is a minibus that will take you into town. Unfortunately, no minibus service runs the other way, so from town you'll have to take a taxi to return to the airport.
Getting There
There's always something happening at Cozumel's international airport, which sees many direct flights from other parts of Mexico and the USA. Flights from Europe and other continents are usually less direct, routed through Mexico City or the USA.
Another option is to arrive via the seas. Passenger ferries run from Playa del Carmen, and car ferries from Puerto Morelos.
Getting Around
Aside from the minibus from the airport into town, there is no bus service on the island. Taxis are available, however. For a look-see at the sights, you could probably haggle with a taxi driver to give you a tour of the island, drop you at a beach, and pick you up later - and still pay out less than you might for a rental car. But for more freedom, a hire car is definitely the go; there are agencies aplenty around the main plaza. Moped rental prices are often negotiable - be sure to ask for a helmet, or risk a fine. Rental bicycles are the most inexpensive way to get about flat Cozumel, but you'll need to brave strong winds.
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