What Not to Do in Cozumel: Avoid These Tourist Mistakes and Enjoy the Island Like a Local
Hey there! I’m Silvia Lupone, host at Stingray Villa here in beautiful Cozumel. If you’re planning a visit to our sunny slice of the Caribbean, I’m here to help you make the most of it—and dodge the common mistakes that can turn a dream trip into a facepalm moment.
Cozumel is an absolute gem. We’re the third-largest island in Mexico, tucked into the Caribbean Sea like a sapphire surrounded by turquoise. With nearly 30 miles of pristine beach, planning for a beach day to enjoy Cozumel’s pristine beaches is a must. Bring drinks and snacks for an ideal leisurely outing. Lush jungle, and some of the best diving in the world, Cozumel offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s easy to fall in love at first sight. But like any popular destination, there are a few pitfalls visitors fall into—especially if it’s your first time here.
Let me walk you through what not to do, based on years of welcoming guests, chatting with travelers, and, let’s be honest, learning from my own missteps over the years.
1. Don’t Drink the Tap Water (Seriously)
Let’s start with a big one. I know you’ve heard it before, but drinking bottled water is essential to avoid health issues associated with unsafe tap water.
Even locals here rely on bottled or purified water for everyday use. That includes brushing your teeth, rinsing fruits, and yes, even the ice in your margarita. Many hotels (including higher-end spots like Fiesta Americana) have their own filtration systems, but unless you’re absolutely sure, stick with bottled.
And if you’re staying at a local Airbnb or boutique hotel like ours, we usually provide purified drinking water in jugs or large refillable dispensers. It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference when you’re trying to stay healthy on vacation.
2. Don’t Leave Your Belongings Unattended
Cozumel is one of the safest places in Mexico, but petty theft can happen anywhere tourists gather.
If you’re strolling downtown or lounging on a public beach, keep your bag within reach, and never leave valuables unattended on a towel. Consider using practical solutions like waterproof bags to keep stuff safe. Trust me, a dip in the ocean feels way better when you’re not worried about your wallet.
A few easy tips:
Use a waterproof phone pouch with a neck strap while swimming.
Consider a money belt or anti-theft bag for markets and ferries.
It is crucial to store your passport and extra cash in hotel safes to ensure they are secure.
And if you’re wondering about exchanging money, skip the airport kiosks. Local cambios (exchange offices) usually offer the best rates, and for ATM withdrawals, I recommend using bank-affiliated machines only.
3. Don’t Come Across as Cheap—Cultural Courtesy Matters
You know what really makes a trip smoother? Respecting the local rhythm. In Cozumel, that means tipping fairly, greeting warmly, and showing a little cultural awareness. It’s not about flashing cash—it’s about showing appreciation. Understanding local customs, like waiting for the bill to be requested, enhances the dining experience, allowing you to fully enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.
Here’s the general vibe:
At sit-down restaurants, leave 15–20%, just like back home.
At smaller, local spots, 10% goes a long way.
Street vendors usually don’t expect a tip, but if someone goes out of their way for you, a few pesos is a kind gesture.
Tour guides? Tip 15–20% of the total tour cost. They work hard to make your day great.
Divemasters typically get $12–15 USD per tank, especially on two-tank dives.
At gas stations and grocery stores, attendants and baggers really do rely on tips, 10 to 20 pesos is both appropriate and appreciated.
And a little Spanish goes a long way. Start with a simple “Buenos días,” “Buenas tardes,” or “Buenas noches.” It’s a show of respect. If you’re visiting a church or other religious site, cover up a bit and dress modestly. It’s about being thoughtful, not formal.
Lastly, when you’re bargaining at local markets, keep it light and friendly. A smile, a bit of patience, and respectful curiosity will get you farther than haggling too hard. Immersing yourself in the local culture, with its rich blend of Mayan heritage and Mexican hospitality, will greatly enhance your overall travel experience. It’s not just about the price, it’s about the experience and the connection.
4. Don’t Skip the Sunscreen (But Make It Reef-Safe)
Cozumel sun doesn’t play around. It’s that warm, golden kind of sunshine that feels amazing… until you’ve been out in it for an hour too long and suddenly your shoulders are glowing like a lobster. But it’s not just about your skin—it’s also about the ocean.
If you’re planning to snorkel, dive, or even just float near the shore, please use reef-safe sunscreen. The coral reefs here are alive and fragile, and chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate—common in many traditional sunscreens—can seriously harm marine life, especially coral.
Instead, look for products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and make sure they’re non-nano and biodegradable. A few reef-safe brands we like? Stream2Sea and Beauty by Earth get the job done without trashing the reef.
So yeah, slather up. But do it smart. You’ll protect your skin and help preserve the magic of Cozumel’s underwater world for the next set of wide-eyed snorkelers.
5. Don’t Let a Scooter Wreck Your Trip
Sure, the idea of zipping around Cozumel on a scooter might sound fun, with wind in your hair and turquoise views all around, but honestly? It’s not worth the risk. The roads here can be unpredictable, especially if you’re unfamiliar with all the one-way streets, potholes, or sudden rain showers that turn pavement into a slip-and-slide. Renting scooters can be particularly dangerous due to hazardous traffic and poor road conditions, leading to frequent accidents involving tourists.
Most rental scooters aren’t exactly top-of-the-line either. Brakes can be sketchy and don’t always handle well, especially with sand or gravel on the road. We’ve seen too many scraped-up tourists limping through town who thought it would be “just a quick ride.”
Instead, do yourself a favor and rent a car or grab a taxi. Better yet, if you’re itching to explore off the beaten path, head over to the island’s east side in a Jeep. It’s a gorgeous, more rugged stretch of Cozumel—think wild waves, open beaches, and fewer crowds. Make sure to confirm the fare before getting into the taxi to avoid taxi overcharges.
And if you want something with more structure but still full of beauty? Check out Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. You’ll get sweeping ocean views, lighthouse climbs, crocs sunning themselves in the lagoon (from a safe distance!), and even a chance to spot flamingos: all the adventure and none of the road rash.
6. Keep Your Hands to Yourself—Seriously
Cozumel’s underwater world is breathtaking. Floating alongside a sea turtle or brushing past vibrant coral can feel magical. But here’s the thing: that magic is delicate. Really delicate. A simple touch just grazing a fish or coral with your fingers, is a big no no and can do more damage than you’d think. Protecting these delicate ecosystems is crucial for future generations to enjoy.
Why? Because your skin carries oils, sunscreen residue, and bacteria that can harm marine creatures. For fish, that protective mucous layer? Gone in an instant. For coral, a bump can mean years of regrowth or death. And legally speaking? It’s not just frowned upon, it’s illegal to touch or harass marine life in Mexico. So please, admire from a distance, don’t feed the wildlife, and let nature stay wild.
7. Don’t Search or Buy Drugs in Cozumel:
It should go without saying, but let’s be real: don’t mess around with drugs in Cozumel. Not only are you putting yourself in serious legal jeopardy (Mexico doesn’t play around when it comes to narcotics), but you’re also inviting personal risk in ways you might not expect. Cozumel may be a chill island paradise on the surface, but like many tourist spots, it’s not immune to organized crime lurking in the background.
If someone offers you something, walk away. Politely or not, just go. Stick to well-lit areas, stay around locals and tourists, and lean into all the incredible things the island has to offer, sunsets, snorkeling, tacos, no not danger. You’re here to relax, not end up in a mess.
8. Ready to Pay? Don’t Wait for the Check
Dining in Cozumel is relaxed, unhurried… sometimes even a bit too unhurried if you’re used to snappy service. Servers won’t rush you or drop a check on the table without being asked. Understanding these customs enhances the dining experience, allowing you to fully appreciate your meal without feeling rushed. That’s just not the vibe here. When you’re done, catch your server’s eye or simply say, “La cuenta, por favor.”
If you’re on a tighter schedule, ask for the check when your meal arrives—no one will think it’s rude. Also, check your bill carefully and, if you’re paying by card, ask for the reader to be brought to your table. Oh, and having a bit of local cash for small eateries or tips? Always smart.
9. Don’t buy Cuban Cigars or Tequila in “tequila shops” near cruise ships in Cozumel:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Listen up, ’cause I’ve got this BONUS TIP that’ll save you some serious cash and hassle in Cozumel!
First of all, those “tequila shops” you see everywhere? Total tourist traps, my friends! They’re selling overpriced, not-so-good tequila. Instead, go to a La Europea Liquor store. Trust me, you’ll find the good stuff there, and it’s cheaper than back home!
Now, about those Cuban cigars… I hate to break it to you, but most of them in Cozumel are as fake as a three-dollar bill. Those street vendors? Forget about it! But don’t worry, I’ve got the hookup for you. There’s this place called Havana Bob’s Cuban Cigars; let me tell you, it’s the real deal!
Imagine this: You walk into Havana Bob’s and BAM! There’s this colossal walk-in humidor full of 100% genuine Cuban cigars. Bob’s got his special hand-rolled cigars for you fancy people out there. And get this – the prices are great!
10. Don’t Wing It—Know the Island Before You Land
You wouldn’t fly to Paris without brushing up on the Eiffel Tower, right? Cozumel deserves the same respect. This island may be small, but it’s packed with layers of history, marine sanctuaries, Mayan ruins, and off-the-beaten-path corners you’ll only find with a little pre-trip curiosity.
Start with San Miguel, the island’s main town. It’s colorful, lively, and the kind of place where you can sip café con leche on a quiet plaza or haggle gently for souvenirs in the mercado. Then there’s Playa del Carmen; just a 40-minute ferry ride away and worth the day trip. A little research on ferry times and reef locations will help you make the most of your beach days and avoid the crowds. For a quick rundown of travel tips, consider flying into Cancun and taking a ferry to Cozumel.
So grab a guidebook, or better yet, talk to a local when you arrive. Cozumel isn’t just a beach—it’s a whole vibe.
11. Don’t Ignore the Island’s Fragile Ecosystem
Cozumel is breathtaking, and it’s also incredibly fragile. The coral reefs here are alive and under threat. Protecting these ecosystems is crucial to ensure that future generations can enjoy these natural wonders. Sea turtles still nest on these beaches. Dolphins swim these waters. That means how you behave matters.
Want to relax with a conscience? Choose eco-friendly tour operators. Book a spot at a beach club that gives back to marine conservation. And if you’re snorkeling or diving, never touch the coral. It takes decades to grow and seconds to kill. Feeding fish might sound fun, but it throws off the ecosystem balance. Certain areas are off limits to protect wildlife, such as the east side at night to safeguard sea turtles.
You don’t have to go full granola to care. Just be thoughtful, leave things as you found them, and know your small choices have a ripple effect.
12. Don’t Leave Travel Plans to the Last Minute
If you’ve never traveled to an island before, here’s a tip: getting there takes more planning than you’d think. You’ve got two solid options—fly directly into Cozumel’s airport, or fly into Cancún and take a bus or taxi down to Playa del Carmen, then hop on a ferry.
Whichever route you choose, book it ahead. Cozumel is easily reachable from the United States and other countries. Ferries can fill up, flights into Cozumel are limited, and no one wants to start their beach vacation with a travel snafu. A little prep = a lot more pina coladas.
13. Don’t Skip San Miguel de Cozumel
A lot of people come here, flop on the sand, and never leave their all-inclusive. And that’s a shame, because San Miguel is where Cozumel’s real flavor lives. Think local restaurants with grandma in the kitchen, boutique shops with handmade jewelry, and peaceful squares where you can hear a mariachi band warming up before sunset. Immersing yourself in the local culture, with its rich blend of Mayan heritage and Mexican hospitality, will enhance your overall travel experience.
Take a stroll down Avenida Rafael Melgar, pop into a café, or hit the Mercado Municipal for tacos that’ll blow your mind. This isn’t the polished version of Cozumel—it’s the authentic one. Personal experiences shared by digital nomads and travel bloggers can guide and inspire other travelers to explore these hidden gems.
14. Don’t Skip the Local Flavors—Literally
You didn’t come to Mexico to eat hamburgers and chicken nuggets, right? Cozumel’s food scene is a spicy, citrusy, seafood-heavy celebration of Mexican-Caribbean fusion. Understanding local customs, such as waiting for the customer to request the bill, enhances the relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. Whether it’s lionfish ceviche, cochinita pibil, or freshly caught grouper grilled over open flame, the food here is a thing.
Looking for an easy win? Head to a beach club with a kitchen—some of the best meals are eaten with sand between your toes. Bonus points if they serve horchata or agua de jamaica to wash it all down. Remember to carry cash for transactions in smaller establishments, as many local markets and food stalls may not accept credit cards.
15. Don’t Neglect Pre-Trip Planning
Before you even set foot on Cozumel’s sandy shores, a little pre-trip planning can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. This island is a treasure trove of natural beauty, from its vibrant coral reefs to its crystal-clear waters, and respecting local customs and preserving the environment should be at the top of your list.
Start by researching the island’s unique attractions and hidden gems. Look into reputable companies that offer Cozumel adventure tours and activities, such as snorkeling and visiting the famous Punta Sur. Making informed decisions about your trip will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises and ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Stay updated on the latest travel advisories and safety guidelines for Cozumel and Mexico. Being aware of your surroundings and potential hazards is crucial for a safe trip. And don’t forget to consider purchasing travel insurance. It’s a small investment that can protect you against trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances, giving you peace of mind and financial security.
So, grab a guidebook, do your homework, and get ready to dive into the adventure that is Cozumel. A little preparation goes a long way in making your trip unforgettable.
16. Don’t Overlook Health and Wellness Precautions
When it comes to traveling to Cozumel, taking health and wellness precautions is key to avoiding common illnesses and injuries. One of the golden rules? Avoid drinking tap water. It may contain harmful chemicals and bacteria, so stick to bottled or purified water for everything, including brushing your teeth and making ice.
The sun in Cozumel is no joke. Protect your skin with mineral-based sunscreens to prevent sunburn and coral bleaching, which can harm the island’s delicate marine life. Brands with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are your best bet for both your skin and the environment.
While exploring Cozumel’s underwater world, be mindful of the marine creatures you encounter. Avoid touching or feeding sea turtles and other marine life, as human contact can be harmful to these animals. Admire them from a distance and let them thrive in their natural habitat.
Lastly, stay safe by being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like San Miguel and Playa del Carmen. Keep your belongings secure to avoid any potential issues during your trip. A little common sense and vigilance can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable Cozumel adventure.
By taking these health and wellness precautions, you’ll be well on your way to a worry-free and memorable trip to Cozumel. Enjoy the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture while staying safe and healthy.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Forget Why You Came
Cozumel isn’t just another beach destination—it’s a place that invites you to slow down, unplug, and reconnect. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea turtles, wandering through town, or sipping tequila at sunset, remember: this island works best when you treat it with care and curiosity.
Want a home base that gets it? Stingray Villa is a boutique mini-resort in the heart of Cozumel with comfortable rooms, great design, and a pool perfect for those hot tropical afternoons. We love this island and are happy to share all its secrets with you.
So pack your reef-safe sunscreen, say “buenos días” with a smile, and come see why Cozumel keeps people coming back year after year.
Here’s to a trip that’s more than a vacation—it’s a memory in the making.