Nearest Airport to Cozumel Mexico: Your Guide to Getting to the Island
Going to Cozumel? Knowing the closest airport can make travel planning easier, and the best way to get to the island makes your trip easier. Cozumel has its airport, but many travelers start their trip by flying into the mainland’s larger airports. Here are the three main airports that serve the area: Cozumel International Airport (CZM), Cancún International Airport (CUN), and Tulum National Airport (TQO). These are the major airports serving the area.
If you’re flying into Cancún or Tulum, you’ll take ground transportation and a ferry to Cozumel. From Cancún, you’ll take a bus or taxi to Playa del Carmen, where the ferries depart regularly to Cozumel. From Tulum, it’s similar. While it may seem like many extra steps, they can be done with the right planning. Let’s get into the details to help you choose the best airport and plan your trip to Cozumel.
Quick Facts
3 Airports: Cozumel, Cancún, and Tulum are the main airports.
Nearest Airports: The nearest airports to Cozumel, including Cancún and Tulum, provide more options for travelers. These nearby airports can offer more affordable flight choices and assist in planning, especially for those needing to rent a car or book international flights.
Ferry Required: If you’re flying into Cancún or Tulum, you’ll take ground transportation and a ferry to get to Cozumel.
Local Transport: Once in Cozumel, you’ll find taxis and bicycles to get around.
Cozumel International Airport (CZM)
Overview of the Main Airport on the Island
Cozumel International Airport (CZM) is the primary gateway to the island of Cozumel, Mexico. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, this international airport is a major hub for tourists flocking to the Mexican Caribbean and Riviera Maya. With its modern facilities and strategic location, Cozumel International Airport ensures all passengers a seamless and comfortable travel experience. Whether you’re arriving from a domestic flight or an international journey, this airport is designed to cater to your needs, making your trip to Cozumel as smooth as possible.
Facilities and Services Available
Cozumel International Airport offers a comprehensive range of facilities and services to meet the diverse needs of its passengers. From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll find everything you need for a convenient and enjoyable travel experience. The airport features efficient check-in counters and baggage claim areas, ensuring a hassle-free start to your trip. Immigration and customs facilities are streamlined to get you through quickly. The duty-free shops and restaurants provide various options for those looking to shop or grab a bite. Comfortable lounges and waiting areas are available for relaxation. Additionally, the airport offers car rental services and ample parking facilities, making it easy to explore Cozumel at your own pace. ATMs and currency exchange services, along with medical and emergency services, are also on hand to ensure your safety and well-being.
From Cancún International Airport to Cozumel
Flying from Cancún International Airport (CUN) to Cozumel combines land and sea. Cancún International Airport services both domestic and international flights, providing various options for travelers. You have several options: bus services, ferries, taxis, and rental cars.
Cancun to Cozumel Aerus Route
Aerus New Service Overview
Get ready to be impressed by Aerus Air Taxi’s new route, launching May 13th. With twelve daily flights, Aerus makes traveling between Cancun and Cozumel easier. Approved by the Federal Civil Aviation Agency with a 10-year concession, Aerus is about reducing travel time and increasing convenience. Whether you’re a sun worshipper or a local explorer, this route will be a game changer for tourism and regional development.
Fast and Easy
Before Aerus, travelers had to take ferries or long road trips, which could take hours. You can hop on a 30-minute flight and be in Cozumel quickly. No more long waits, just fast, stress-free travel. Aerus operates these flights from Cancun to Cozumel with modern, fuel-efficient planes, so you’ll have a comfortable and reliable trip.
Bus to Cozumel
ADO bus is a good and cheap option to get from CUN to Playa del Carmen. Buses run all day. The ADO counter is in the airport’s arrival area.
The trip takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive in Playa del Carmen, you must walk to the ferry terminal; for schedules and prices, check the ADO website.
Ferry from Playa del Carmen
Three ferry companies operate from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel: Winjet, Xcaret, and Ultramar. Ferries depart every 30 minutes from 8 am to 10 pm.
The ferry ride is 45 minutes. All companies have air-conditioned indoor seating and outdoor deck areas. Prices are the same for all three companies. You should only buy tickets at the terminal since you won’t know which company will leave next once you get there.
Taxi and Private Transfers
Private shuttles offer a more comfortable and direct option from CUN to the Playa del Carmen ferry terminal. You can book in advance.
A driver will meet you at the airport with a sign and take you directly to the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen. This option is more expensive than the bus but is convenient and comfortable, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
From Tulum International Airport
Tulum International Airport (TQO) now has new options for Cozumel. Located in the Quintana Roo region, known for its beautiful tourist destinations, you must take ground transportation to Playa del Carmen and then ferry to the island.
Bus and Shuttle
You can take a bus or shuttle from TQO to Playa del Carmen. ADO buses run often, are comfortable and are cheap. The trip takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. Shared shuttles are another option. They’re a bit more expensive but offer door-to-door service to the ferry terminal.
Once in Playa del Carmen, you’ll find the ferry pier easy. There are 3 Ferries to Cozumel that depart every 30 minutes during the day. The boat ride is 45 minutes.
Prices
Taxis are the most expensive option. A trip from Tulum airport to the ferry terminal can cost over $200. The ADO bus is cheaper, around $15 for the same trip.
Ferry tickets to Cozumel are $13-20 per person.
Renting a car gives you freedom but comes with extra costs like gas, parking, and car ferry use. Daily rates start at $50-100 plus insurance.
Time
The fastest way to Cozumel is to fly directly, 20 minutes from Cancun (there are no flights from Tulum).
Bus ferry combo from Cancun takes 2-3 hours in total. This includes:
1-1.5 hours by bus to Playa del Carmen
Wait time for the ferry (up to 30 minutes)
45-minute ferry ride
Taxis are quicker than buses for the land part and can save 30-45 minutes.
3-4 hours from Tulum using buses plus ferry.
Airport Facilities and Services
Cozumel International Airport has various facilities and services to enhance your travel experience. The airport lounges offer a comfortable retreat with complimentary food, drinks, and Wi-Fi access, perfect for unwinding before your flight. If you need a vehicle, several car rental companies have desks at the airport, providing a range of options to suit your needs. Parking facilities are available for short-term and long-term stays, ensuring your vehicle is secure while you enjoy your trip. The airport is equipped with multiple ATMs and currency exchange offices for financial services. The airport has a dedicated medical center ready to assist in any medical emergency. All these amenities aim to provide a smooth and stress-free experience for travelers passing through Cozumel International Airport.
Amenities at Nearby Airports
While Cozumel International Airport is the primary airport serving the island, nearby airports also offer a range of amenities and services that can enhance your travel experience. Cancun International Airport (CUN), located about 60 kilometers north of Cozumel, is a major hub with extensive facilities. It boasts numerous duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges to relax before your flight. Playa del Carmen Airport (PCM), situated approximately 20 kilometers north of Cozumel, is a smaller airport but still offers essential services such as car rental desks, parking facilities, and ATMs. These nearby airports provide additional options and conveniences, making your journey to Cozumel more flexible and enjoyable.
Which Airlines Fly to Cozumel?
Discover the ease of reaching the stunning island of Cozumel, thanks to its international airport and excellent accessibility. Whether you fly or ferry to Cozumel, it makes it easy for you to arrive in this tropical paradise. Travelers can also connect through major hubs like Mexico City to reach Cozumel.
Cozumel has an international airport, so travelers from around the world can get to this beautiful island. Whether you choose a scenic flight or a convenient connection, many airlines fly to Cozumel because it’s a popular tourist destination, especially during the high season when visitors flock to Cozumel to enjoy its beauty. Travelers looking to get to Cozumel have many options, including flights to Cozumel Airport and transportation services to get you to the island.
Biggest airlines to Cozumel:
Delta (limited flights)
If you live in a “hub” city, you can fly with:
WestJet: Your go-to airline for a safe and comfortable trip to Cozumel
WestJet is one of the top airlines to Cozumel. They offer a great travel experience with a focus on safety and comfort. WestJet is the best choice for a trip with friends or family. With their excellent service, high-quality travel, and flexible staff, you can trust WestJet to give you an amazing travel experience in Cozumel.
Delta Cuts to Cozumel
Unfortunately, we must announce that Delta will no longer operate from Atlanta to Cozumel starting June 2nd, 2024. Many travelers will be disappointed as they have been using Delta to get to the beautiful island of Cozumel, known for its blue waters and marine life. Stopping the flights from Atlanta marks the end of an era for those who have loved their trips with Delta to this tropical paradise.
But there’s hope. We hope Delta will return the Atlanta to Cozumel flights on December 2nd, 2025 when demand is highest. Cozumel’s tourist activities and festive atmosphere make it necessary to bring back this important air connection. Delta should recognize this market and resume operations to meet the demand for travel to Cozumel.
Minneapolis friends, don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about you! Delta will return seasonal service to Cozumel on Dec 16 with three flights daily on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays during winter. Cozumel covers you whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation!
The lack of Delta flights from Atlanta to Cozumel will leave a gap for travelers looking for easy access to this Caribbean gem. But we’re hoping this is just a temporary hiatus and Delta will return to serving the passengers who want to experience Cozumel’s stunning landscapes and culture. Until then we suggest travelers to look into other routes and airlines to get to their destination, we’re sure Cozumel will still be calling their names no matter what challenges come their way.
Southwest Airlines no longer flies to Cozumel, Mexico.
Southwest Airlines Service Update: Southwest Airlines operated flights to Cozumel International Airport (CZM) and has since discontinued service to Cozumel in August 2024. They are moving their Mexico Caribbean operations to the new Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO), which will give travelers an alternative to Mexico’s Riviera Maya. The reasons for leaving the Cozumel market were to eliminate around 2,000 jobs due to profitability issues and delays in plane deliveries from Boeing.
Worldwide: Choose which Airlines fly to Cozumel for you
Good news for travelers from all over the world! The airlines we’ve been talking about operate in many cities worldwide, so chances are they have a city near you. Whether in a big city or a smaller town, these airlines have covered you.
Before you book your dream trip to Cozumel, you can’t miss one important step: check if these airlines operate in or near your city. Because you don’t want to book a flight and find out, you must travel to a different airport to get to your departure city.
It’s easy to check if these airlines operate in your area. Head to their websites or call customer service, and they’ll gladly help. You can book confidently once you’ve confirmed their service in your area.
By choosing these airlines, you’re not just buying a ticket. You’re investing in a stress-free trip to Cozumel. These airlines have built their reputation on being excellent and will go above and beyond to make every part of your trip unforgettable.
But don’t just take our word for it – read the many reviews from happy customers who have experienced it for themselves. From the moment you step into the airport to land in Cozumel, these airlines will take care of you every step of the way.
So what are you waiting for? Choose which airlines fly to Cozumel and elevate your Cozumel experience. We promise you’ll never fly with anyone else again once you experience their service, comfort, and reliability. Book now and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting from Cancun or Tulum airports to Cozumel involves multiple steps and transportation options. Here are answers to common questions about this journey.