Kid-Friendly in Cozumel

Description:

Charter either the the 27-foot Catalina Kaylee Ray, 23-foot Newport Venture Pelicano or the 22-foot Jeanneau Jenna Lynn. Each ship can accommodate up to eight passengers. Captain the boat yourself or hire a crew. Snorkel or dive trips can be arranged from their associates at Caballito del Caribe dive shop.

Description:

This rocky stretch of coastline is home to resorts in the North Hotel Zone. The four-mile area, which turns into Playa Santa Pilar, is a favorite among guests for sunbathing, water sports and relaxation. Calm waters allow for excellent snorkeling and steady winds provide ideal windsurfing opportunities. For a tropical drink or a bite to eat, you can go to one of the many hotels on the strip. In the high-season the crowds can be overwhelming. If you seek solace, head to the beaches on the eastern side of the island. Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

Formerly the Reef Club Cozumel, Wyndham has acquired the property.

Description:

This Mexican-owned all inclusive beach resort really caters to families and this is reflected in their reasonable prices and excellent children's program. For the adults there are a variety of activities including the Sand Dollar Sports for diving or snorkeling. The grounds resemble a Mexican village with unit of eight placed together under palapa roofs. Most of the rooms are ocean view and all are decorated in bright Mexican colors and furnishings. The staff here are noted for their genuine warmth and hospitality.

Description:

The aroma of fresh baked cakes, pastries and coffee draws passersby into this café. The establishment offers nine different coffee roasts, including Cuban, Irish and espresso. Now that's something to get you started on the right foot. Their baked goods are made fresh daily and include cheesecake, croissants and bagels with cream cheese. It's an inviting café where you could easily spend the day people watching.

Description:

Located south of San Miguel, this park offers a combination of history, archeology and recreation. There is excellent snorkeling and diving at the underwater park where you can spot sunken ships, anchors, statues and tons of tropical fish. You can also swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery or find out more about Maya ruins at the Parque Arqueologico. The museum has exhibits on marine life, while the botanical garden has more than 450 species of regional plants. Children of all ages will enjoy the sea lion park and its daily shows.

Description:

This dream-fulfilling experience provides kids with the opportunity to interact with bottlenose dolphins, in the safety of shallow waters on a private cove, allowing them to come into contact with these amazing mammals while gently touching their velvet skin.

Before entering the ocean cove, each kids is briefed by the knowledgeable professional trainers about the dolphin's behavior as well as the basic guidelines of the program.

Following the kids will view a brief dolphin presentation where they will be introduced to some of the extraordinary dolphins behavior.

The program is conducted on a 1.5 feet deep submerged platform. This is a very hands on program, allowing kids, in a controlled and safe setting, to get an up close and personal anatomy lesson on dolphins as well as learning about dolphin behavior and adaptations they have made to the environment. All kids receive a kiss and pectoral fins shake.

Parents can watch their kids as observers. They will not be allowed in the water to participate.

Children must be between the ages of 5 - 9 years. Children under 4 feet are required to be accompanied by an adult. Children must know how to swim to be able to participate in this program.... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

Formerly the Reef Club Cozumel, Wyndham has acquired the property.

Description:

This Mexican-owned all inclusive beach resort really caters to families and this is reflected in their reasonable prices and excellent children's program. For the adults there are a variety of activities including the Sand Dollar Sports for diving or snorkeling. The grounds resemble a Mexican village with unit of eight placed together under palapa roofs. Most of the rooms are ocean view and all are decorated in bright Mexican colors and furnishings. The staff here are noted for their genuine warmth and hospitality.

Description:

Visit the mysterious ruins of Tulum. Enjoy the view as you explore this abandoned walled city that towers above the deep turquoise of the Caribbean. Then visit Xel-Ha, a beautiful natural aquarium, home to many varieties of colorful tropical fish. Here you can learn to snorkel or simply sit in one of the beach chairs and soak up the sun!

TULUM - the 'Walled City', is mounted high on the edge of a cliff, this abandoned city towers above the deep turquoise of the Caribbean and a beautiful white sandy beach. The city within the walls was only inhabited by the nobles, high priests and esteemed citizens such as astronomers whereas the lower classes lived in simple wood and thatch huts beyond. The buildings in the city were originally covered with brilliant paintings and carvings stark white, deep red or vibrant blue, but only faint remnants of these now remain.

A guided visit of the site takes about 45 minutes and then some time at leisure to take photos of the picturesque views.

Then continue to XEL-HA (pronounced shell-ha). A large area of protected inlets and lagoons, Xel-Ha is a beautiful natural aquarium, home to many varieties of colorful tropical fish. Here visitors can learn to snorkel...

Description:

This old-fashioned pizzeria, in the heart of San Miguel, serves thin crust pizza loaded with cheese and toppings. Their pepperoni pizza is renowned. Also on the menu is pasta; the pasta with mushrooms, peppers, onions, garlic red sauce is particularly delicious. Considering the amount of food that comes with each meal, the prices are very reasonable. If your favorite item isn't on the menu, then ask about it. The owner is happy to take special orders. They will also deliver pizza to your hotel.

Our Local Expert Says:

Formerly the Reef Club Cozumel, Wyndham has acquired the property.

Description:

This Mexican-owned all inclusive beach resort really caters to families and this is reflected in their reasonable prices and excellent children's program. For the adults there are a variety of activities including the Sand Dollar Sports for diving or snorkeling. The grounds resemble a Mexican village with unit of eight placed together under palapa roofs. Most of the rooms are ocean view and all are decorated in bright Mexican colors and furnishings. The staff here are noted for their genuine warmth and hospitality.

Description:

Owners Antonio and Chellie Castellanos have over 30 years of combined experience in diving. They run one of the most organized and well-respected operations on Cozumel, one that caters to families. Groups are small and a variety of programs for beginners and experts are offered. Ask about snorkeling and dive packages for families where only one parent dives. Reservations are necessary.

Description:

The reef surrounding the southern half of the island has been declared a national marine park covering 85% of Cozumel's dive sites. Second largest in the world, this reef starts in Mexico and extends down to the Gulf of Honduras. There is no better place for diving in the Western Hemisphere. When diving look but don't touch the reef or disturb the sea life.

Description:

Located at the southernmost tip of Cozumel, this 247-acre nature reserve opened in 1999. Its focus is on conservation of local flora and fauna, so no cars are allowed into the park. If you're lucky you may spot crocodiles, egrets, foxes, herons, iguanas and other wildlife. You can also visit the Mayan ruin El Caracol and the navigational museum in the Punta Celerain Lighthouse. The Balneario el Caracol restaurant serves excellent meals and rents out snorkel gear. The beach here is quite pristine.

Description:

Naturally, this reef is located just off the shores of Playa San Francisco (the beach is actually named after the reef). This one kilometer reef has a wall of coral that is only 35-50 feet deep but with strong currents. Many dive operators take beginning divers here when they are ready for their first wall dive or drift dive. Visibility is excellent and there is spectacular coral and brightly colored sponges along with plenty of angelfish, clown fish and grouper. This is a good spot for marine photography; it is part of the Parque Marino de Cozumel.

Description:

Chankanaab National Marine Park is only a short 15 minute taxi ride from the pier or downtown. Experience Cozumel's marine life like never before. Choose between the kayak or snorkeling adventure. Double the fun and combine them both for the ultimate marine experience!

Playa Uvas has a lot to offer. Soak up the sun or swim in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. For those wanting a bit more action, get up close to the world's second biggest reef system with the following options available:

Guided Clear Kayak Adventure - Glide over the reef in your 2-person transparent kayak. See tropical fish, coral formations and other sea-life in this amazing marine environment. This 45 minute adventure is the ultimate dry snorkel experience as you enjoy the uninterrupted view of the underwater world while fish swim below.

Guided Shore Snorkel Adventure - Your multilingual PADI guide will lead you to the reefs for a close look at Cozumel's marine life in an inspiring 45 minute snorkel adventure with great photo opportunities. Full snorkeling gear will be provided.

Double the fun - why not combine them both for the ultimate marine experience!

You have nothing to worry about when...

Description:

Situated just south off Playa San Francisco, this reef is ideal for beginners because of its shallow depths of 40-55 feet. There are so many peculiar but beautiful coral formations that it's not possible to see them all in one dive. There are also 15 species of marine life, such as grouper, angelfish, clown fish, sponges, sea fans, lobsters, and eels. The one drawback is the strong current which can be quite strong as times. It is part of the Parque Marino de Cozumel.

Description:

Palancar Shallows and Gardens is another part of the famous Palancar Reef in the Parque Marino de Cozumel. Novice divers will enjoy this shallow dive with its coral mountain that gently slopes to 70 feet. Two broad reef beds are filled with valleys, "finger canyons," where there are whip and brain corals alongside plenty of fish including nurse sharks. There is a lot of traffic to this site, but it remains in good condition and visibility is excellent.

Description:

Paraiso Reef is 330-feet offshore from the International Cruise Docks, just south of San Miguel. With a maximum depth of 30-feet, weak current and clear water, it is the preferred spot for dive operators to take beginners. This reef has endured increased diving activity and pier construction. Nonetheless, aquatic life still flourishes. Sea fans, sea cucumbers, moray eels and queen trigger fish frolic about the huge formations of brain and star coral. It's an excellent location for night diving. Those visiting the reef must pay a small fee (cash only) to the Parque Marino de Cozumel.

Our Local Expert Says:

Though unimpressive if compared to the more popular sites of Chichen Itza or Tulum, the archeological sites of Cozumel are worth a visit if your trip does not include excursions to the grander Mayan ruins on the mainland.

Description:

El Caracol is thought to be a Maya lighthouse built between 1200 and 1400 A.D. that also served as a hurricane warning system. Strategically placed openings whistle when the wind blows and the Maya were able to tell what type of weather was approaching. The stronger the wind, the higher the pitch. Candles placed inside turned the structure into a lighthouse guiding pilgrims and traders safely to shore. The ruins are now part of the Parque Punta Sur nature reserve.

Description:

Recreate 2001 Leagues Under the Sea while visiting the reefs of Cozumel aboard the Atlantis XII submarine. This air-conditioned, pressure-controlled, fully submerged submarine glides 100 feet underwater to the beautiful corals of Chankanaab Reef. The 90-minute tour is the perfect solution for those who would like to explore the deep but stay dry. Be sure to bring your camera. Tickets are USD72 for adults and USD36 for children. Note: Those with sensitive stomachs need to be aware that the ride can get bumpy at times.

Description:

Located in the El Cozumeleno Beach Resort, this water sports company offers a number of snorkeling, fishing, boating and parasailing tours. An optional guided snorkeling tour is included. Private fishing charters and parasailing over the ocean are also available. Its sister company, Scuba Du, can arrange dive trips. See their website for further information.

Description:

This little restaurant is tucked away in a residential area of Cozumel. It serves good, everyday Yucatecán food such as Panuchos (fried tortillas covered in chicken, avocado) and Pollo en Relleno Negro (chicken in a black chile sauce). In addition, this eatery serves a few traditional Arabian dishes. El Turix is a clean, quaint spot with simple wooden tables that make for a casual, comfortable dining experience. The owners, Rafael and Maruca, will give you a hearty welcome.

Our Local Expert Says:

Formerly the Reef Club Cozumel, Wyndham has acquired the property.

Description:

This Mexican-owned all inclusive beach resort really caters to families and this is reflected in their reasonable prices and excellent children's program. For the adults there are a variety of activities including the Sand Dollar Sports for diving or snorkeling. The grounds resemble a Mexican village with unit of eight placed together under palapa roofs. Most of the rooms are ocean view and all are decorated in bright Mexican colors and furnishings. The staff here are noted for their genuine warmth and hospitality.

Description:

Fly High Adventures is an eco-park where the first attraction is it Zip Lines, it has 12 platforms with 6 trails. They are located 10 minutes away from downtown and 5 minutes from the international pier at the south part of the island. The main building is a Mayan palapa with bathrooms, lockers and a snack-bar with a deck covered from rain and sun where you can also buy snacks or drinks. It is surrounded by jungle that has all kinds of wild animals and plants. The excellent view from the top of the towers makes it unique, with all the different Caribbean colors of the ocean on one side and the horizon of the jungle on the other. The equipment that they provide is the latest on the market with the highest quality and comfort, which is mainly harness, pulleys, gloves and helmet. Their first concern is and all their guides are first aid and rappel-rescue certified. Each trail has a double line for double security. All the towers have emergency stairs that are communicated with a path that takes to the main palapa.

Description:

Punta Chiqueros is a small protected crescent-shaped cove at the beginning of a long stretch of beach known as Playa Punta Chiqueos. The pounding surf and dangerous undertow typically found on the leeward side of Cozumel is missing here since the cove is protected by the Chiqueros reef, another popular dive site. From San Miguel head along the Costera Sur highway east until Parque Punta Sur and turn north to travel along the Coastal Highway for about one mile.

Description:

This popular tourist destination is surprisingly traditional and creative. Pancho's offers fun patio and garden dining. For those of you who love a classic margarita, try the regular flavor, and for the more adventurous, try the hibiscus. The latter is my favorite margarita on Cozumel. The best thing on the menu is the bean soup and is the best I've had in Mexico. They also have great tequila liqueurs for dessert. Speaking of dessert, try the fried ice cream.

They are open for lunch and dinner, and have live Mexican music from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They share a plaza with Los Cinco Soles store which has an extensive collection of tequila and Mexican arts and crafts from all over the republic. If you have any questions regarding Mexican crafts, this is the place to go - it's like touring an art gallery.

Our Local Expert Says:

Formerly the Reef Club Cozumel, Wyndham has acquired the property.

Description:

This Mexican-owned all inclusive beach resort really caters to families and this is reflected in their reasonable prices and excellent children's program. For the adults there are a variety of activities including the Sand Dollar Sports for diving or snorkeling. The grounds resemble a Mexican village with unit of eight placed together under palapa roofs. Most of the rooms are ocean view and all are decorated in bright Mexican colors and furnishings. The staff here are noted for their genuine warmth and hospitality.