(Content by Poe)
I’ve now lived part-time on Cozumel for over seven years, but my first trip to this island was almost a disaster. I want to share what I learned the hard way, because the difference between a great Cozumel trip and a frustrating one comes down to a handful of small decisions most travelers don’t think about until it’s too late. Travelers planning their first Cozumel snorkeling adventure should definitely check out Jet Ski Cozumel’s snorkeling guide before arriving, since knowing the local tips can save both money and time during your trip.
The Airport Drink That Cost Me $17
During my first hour on the island, I bought a margarita while waiting for the shuttle bus to fill up. It was $17. The same drink at the place I’d find later that night, walking distance from my hotel, was $3. That moment taught me a rule I’ve stuck to ever since: if you see something you want, wait. The shop two doors down, or the restaurant a block off the main strip, will almost always have the same thing for half the price. Cozumel runs on cruise ship turnover, which means the closer you are to the cruise pier, the more inflated the prices. Once you walk five minutes inland or south, the real island prices kick in.
Don’t Trust the First Cab Quote
Cab fares in Cozumel are technically zone-based and posted at the official taxi stand near the ferry terminal. In practice, drivers will quote you whatever they think you’ll pay. The first time I went from downtown to Chankanaab, I was quoted $40. The actual zone fare was $18. The fix is simple: ask the price before you get in. If it sounds high, walk to the next cab. There are always more. The drivers who try to overcharge tourists know they’re rolling the dice — they’ll drop the price the second you turn around.
The Cozumel Sun Is Different
I’ve been to Florida, the Bahamas, and the Mexican Pacific. Nothing prepared me for how fast Cozumel will burn you. The sun here is direct, and being on or near the water doubles it. I once got so badly burned on a snorkel trip that I couldn’t lie on my back for three days. A long-sleeve UPF rash guard does more for you than any sunscreen. I never get on a boat without one anymore. And reef-safe sunscreen isn’t optional.
Author bio–
Poe is an American who moved to Cozumel from Wisconsin seven years ago and runs Jet Ski Cozumel, a small water sports operation on the island. When he’s not on the water, he’s writing about Cozumel travel, beach clubs, and the mistakes tourists keep making.
