COZUMEL

Situated off the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is Mexico’s largest island, 14 km (9miles) wide by 50 km (31 miles) long. The Maya called the island Cozamil, the “place of the swallows”. For the Maya, Cozumel was a sacred site of the fertility goddess Ixchel, and a trade and navigational center. For the 16th century Spaniards, who also came to Cozumel, it made a great naval base.

In 1961, the famous ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau came to Cozumel and declared it to be one of the finest diving areas in the world, second only to the great barrier reef.

Today, Cozumel is a tourist resort with an easygoing atmosphere, striking a balance between the sophistication of Cancun and the relaxed lifestyle of Isla Mujeres. The island has white-sand beaches, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, luxury resorts and modest hotels, fine restaurants, great shops and a few Maya ruins. It is however, most popular among underwater enthusiasts, who come to explore some of the world’s best coral reefs.

San Miguel, is Cozumel’s only town and has a laid back street life centered on the waterfront. For shoppers there is Punta Langosta mall and cruise terminal, which is new and very lavish.

The island’s biggest upscale hotel cluster is situated along a shaded boulevard north of town in what is known as North Beach. Here you will find hotels, resort complexes, pools, water sports and every comfort.

Museo de Cozumel is a charming waterfront museum illuminating the history of Maya Cozumel, the arrival of the Spaniards and the dawn of the pirate era. It also has a lovely rooftop café.

Laguna Chankanaab is created around a lovely coral lagoon, this glorious park includes a botanical garden, a dolphin pool, a pretty beach, and reefs that are ideal for novice divers.

Palancar Reef is Cozumel’s most famous reef, with fabulous coral canyons and caves in livid reds and blues. The waters are full of vibrant creatures.

San Gervaiso Ruins - The layout of its pyramids and small palaces gives a strong impression of life in a mayan community.

Parque Punta Sur is a wildly diverse nature reserve, with turtle nesting beaches, a snorkeling area, and huge mangroves and lagoons that are home to crocodiles and flamingos. There is also a light house and a tiny Mayan temple.

Two of Cozumel’s best beaches are Playa Sol and Playa San Francisco. Here you will find ample facilities for water sports from banana boat rides to sub aqua exploration.

Following are recommended links:
Ferry schedules and maps:
www.cozumel.net/maps.htm
www.cozumel.net/1maps/ferry.htm
www.cozumel.net/1maps/citymap.htm
www.cozumel.net/1maps/playa-map.htm
www.cozumel.net/1maps/coastal-map.htm
Hotels, fishing and diving:
www.cozumel-hotels.net/index.htm
www.hotelbrowser.biz/destinations/cozumet.php
www.cozumel.net/1maps/hotelmap.htm
www.cozumel-diving.net/fishing/
www.cozumel.net/1maps/divemap.htm