Hotels in Cozumel

Discover Cozumel: Where Pristine Beaches Meet Ancient Ruins

Discover the enchanting island of Cozumel, Quintana Roo, where the Mexican Caribbean unfolds in a vibrant tapestry of sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear waters. This tropical paradise is renowned for its world-class snorkeling and diving spots, showcasing stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life. Explore ancient Mayan ruins, bask in the warm sun on pristine shores, and indulge in the island’s rich cultural heritage. With its central location along the Riviera Maya, Cozumel is the perfect base for adventure or relaxation. Whether you seek luxury resorts or charming hideaways, Cozumel’s unique allure beckons travelers to experience its magic. For the best hotel rates in Cozumel, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Cozumel

Some of the best places to stay in Cozumel are Playacar, Downtown Playa del Carmen and Playacar Zona Hotelera. Cozumel offers stunning beaches and vibrant culture, making it a top vacation spot. Playacar provides a tranquil, upscale atmosphere with resorts nestled along the coast, while Downtown Playa del Carmen is bustling with shops and nightlife. Playacar Zona Hotelera features beachfront hotels with easy access to activities. For first-time visitors, Downtown Playa del Carmen is ideal for its lively energy and diverse experiences. Overall, accommodations range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, catering to every traveler's needs. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Cozumel:

1. PlayacarOpens in a new window: Playacar is a vibrant beach destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere and stunning coastal views. With attractions like Xcaret Eco Theme Park and Playa del Carmen Main Beach close by, it’s perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation. In this area, you can find several top-notch hotels. Palmaïa-The House of AïA: All Inclusive Wellness ResortOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star resort that offers direct beach access and amenities for children, including a children's club and supervised childcare. Iberostar Waves Quetzal - All InclusiveOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star resort, caters to both adventure seekers and business travelers with activities like snorkeling and windsurfing available onsite. For an all-inclusive experience, Playacar Palace All InclusiveOpens in a new window provides unlimited food and drinks, while also offering a variety of adventure sports activities.
2. Downtown Playa del CarmenOpens in a new window: The heart of Playa del Carmen, this area is bustling with life, featuring the famous Quinta Avenida for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s ideal for families and those looking to immerse themselves in local culture. Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen ResortOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel with beach access and offers various adventure activities like hiking and snorkeling. Paradisus Playa del Carmen – Riviera Maya - All InclusiveOpens in a new window is another 5.0-star all-inclusive resort that provides a wide range of amenities for families, including children's activities and pools. For a more luxurious retreat, The Yucatan Resort Playa del Carmen, All-Inclusive Adults Only, Tapestry by HiltonOpens in a new window offers spa services and business facilities, making it a great choice for travelers seeking relaxation and work.
3. Playacar Zona HoteleraOpens in a new window: This area is a prime beach location, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With attractions like Xplor Theme Park nearby, it’s great for thrill-seekers. Hotel Xcaret Mexico - All Parks / All Fun InclusiveOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star all-inclusive resort with direct beach access and numerous adventure sports available, catering to families and adventure enthusiasts alike. Hotel Xcaret Arte – All Parks / All Fun Inclusive, Adults Only Opens in a new window, another 5.0-star all-inclusive option, includes amenities for business travelers and a wide range of activities, from snorkeling to kayaking. For a unique experience, La Casa de la Playa by Xcaret - All Inclusive Adults OnlyOpens in a new window features natural hot springs and various outdoor activities for a truly refreshing getaway.

Things to do in Cozumel for first time

Cozumel offers travelers a captivating escape with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Spend three days indulging in snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating, or enjoy leisurely hikes through lush landscapes. This island paradise is perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation alike, making it a must-visit destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cozumel:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Playa del Carmen by soaking up the sun at Playa del Carmen Main Beach, a vibrant spot known for its soft sands and crystal-clear waters. After some fun in the sun, stroll over to Portal Maya, a cultural monument that pays homage to the ancient Mayan civilization and offers stunning ocean views. Conclude your day with a visit to the 3D Museum of Wonders, where the interactive art installations will amaze you and provide plenty of photo opportunities.
• Day 2: Catch the ferry to Cozumel, a beautiful island known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Start your exploration at Río Secreto, an underground river and stunning cave system where you can take guided tours through breathtaking natural formations. Afterward, head to Cenote Santa Cruz, where you can swim in the refreshing waters surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene escape from the day's adventures.
• Day 3: Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along Quinta Avenida, the bustling main street of Playa del Carmen filled with shops, restaurants, and local art. Next, relax at Mamitas Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and beach clubs perfect for sunbathing and enjoying beachside cocktails. Finally, make your way to Maroma Beach, a breathtaking stretch of sand renowned for its tranquility, where you can unwind and reflect on your incredible trip to this stunning part of Mexico.

5 tips to find a great Cozumel hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Cozumel is from September to November when hotel prices drop significantly. Domestic travelers should aim to book their flights at least 8 months in advance for the best deals, while international travelers can secure cheaper fares by booking at least 1 month ahead. To truly enjoy the island and its beautiful beaches, you should plan for a stay of at least 5-6 days, allowing you to explore its stunning attractions on a budget while getting great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Cozumel, Hotels.com offers a great way to snag discounts on accommodations. To explore these offers, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you may discover competitive rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, increasing your chances of finding refundable options and great prices for your Cozumel getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. So, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Cozumel.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Cozumel is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like taxis, rental cars, bicycles, scooters, and buses to explore the area while likely saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Cozumel and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Cozumel

Here are some famous dishes in Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico:

• Cochinita Pibil: A traditional Yucatecan dish, cochinita pibil features slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices, wrapped in banana leaves for added flavor. This dish is typically served with pickled red onions and fresh tortillas, making it a communal experience that reflects local culinary heritage.
• Ceviche: A refreshing dish perfect for the tropical climate, ceviche in Cozumel is made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Often served with tortilla chips, it's a vibrant choice that showcases the region's abundant seafood and is ideal for enjoying by the beach.
• Tacos al Pastor: A beloved street food, tacos al pastor feature marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma. They are typically served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that locals and tourists alike enjoy.

Best time to go to Cozumel

Cozumel experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 76.1°F (24.5°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 83.7°F (28.7°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Cozumel are January, March, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, August, October, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.