Where is Cozumel, and what country is Cozumel in on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula?
The island of Cozumel is located just off the northeast coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula – across the water from Playa Del Carmen and about an hour and a half from the Cancun airport. One may wonder, “Is Cozumel a country?” – the answer is no. It is a part of Mexico. The Latitude and the Longitude of the Island of Cozumel are 20.422984 latitude and -86.922343 longitude.
Since the Yucatan Peninsula is part of Mexico, traveling to Cozumel is simple and economical.
Cozumel is the closest Caribbean island to the mainland United States and receives much more direct tourist traffic from the U.S. than any other island in the Caribbean.
Many individuals who visit Cozumel decide to remain for a few days or weeks instead of just a day or two because it is so simple to fly back and forth between Cozumel and the U.S. Also, since everything you require is so close, many Cozumel visitors decide to extend their trip to other parts of Mexico or Central America.
Quintana Roo was known as a part of the Yucatán state until October 8th, 1974. The Mexican state of Quintana Roo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. It also has a beautiful historical past. The Maya inhabited it, and Quintana Roo became part of the Spanish empire.
Cozumel is 34 miles long by 11 miles wide, just off Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
Cozumel is quite unlike its neighbor. It’s largely undeveloped, with expanses of jungle and untouched shoreline that are a rarity on the mainland. Travelers don’t come for partying, boisterous beach bikini volleyball games, or designer shopping. Instead, it’s about unplugging and enjoying the sun.
Aside from the beach, There’s plenty to see and do in Cozumel. San Miguel has a laid-back vibe, and stunning stretches of untouched nature can be found along the eastern and southern shores.
Many travelers wonder, “Where is Cozumel located?” – and the answer is right off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

Geography of Cozumel
Cozumel is a stunning Caribbean island off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, approximately 11 miles (17.7 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen. As Mexico’s largest Caribbean island, Cozumel stretches 30 miles (48 kilometers) long and 10 miles (16 kilometers) wide. This island paradise is part of the Yucatan region and attracts over 2 million visitors annually. One of Cozumel’s most remarkable features is the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the largest reef system in the Americas. This underwater wonderland is home to hundreds of tropical fish species and marine mammals, making it a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.
Climate of Cozumel
Cozumel boasts a tropical savanna climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity year-round. The average temperature ranges from a comfortable 72°F (22°C) in January to a warm 82°F (28°C) in August. The island experiences its wet season from May to October, with most of its annual rainfall occurring during these months. The best time for those planning to visit Cozumel is between December and April. This period offers sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for a beach getaway. It’s also the peak tourist season so you can expect vibrant energy and plenty of activities.
Getting to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen
The best way to get from Cancun to Cozumel is to take the ADO bus from the Airport to Playa del Carmen and then take the Cozumel Ferry. The bus ride is only about one hour long and is an excellent travel method. The ferry for Cozumel runs every 30 minutes and is very inexpensive. You can buy your ticket at the ferry terminal.
Some notes about the ferry to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen:
You can take your bike on the ferry with no problems. They will direct you to a different entrance on the ground floor, so you don’t have to get up the escalator with your bike!
It’s the same if you have a lot of luggage or are in a wheelchair. You go under the escalator and enter from there.
I always sit indoors in the a/c rather than outside, but that’s because I’m not a tourist and it’s not so exciting anymore.
Whatever your travel plans, you should also know that airlines fly directly into Cozumel, which we recommend you look at first. Airlines flying into Cozumel include American Airlines, United, Frontier, Sun Country, Air Canada, Rouge, WestJet, Volaris, and VivaAerobús.

Getting Around Cozumel
Navigating Cozumel is a breeze, thanks to its well-maintained ring road and a central road that bisects the island. It takes just about an hour to drive around the entire island. While downtown San Miguel is easily walkable, exploring further afield might require some wheels. Taxis are available throughout the island but can be pricey due to high demand. Renting a car is a popular option, allowing you to explore Cozumel at your own pace. Remember that there is no island-wide public transportation, so having your vehicle can make your visit much more convenient.
San Miguel and Other Towns
San Miguel, the principal town on Cozumel, is situated on the island’s western shore. This bustling town is a hotspot for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a few museums and cultural attractions. Beyond San Miguel, Cozumel is home to charming towns like El Cedral, a quaint village in the island’s center, and San Gervasio, located on the eastern shore. Each town offers its unique slice of island life, providing visitors with a well-rounded experience of Cozumel’s culture and history.
When To Visit Cozumel
The tropical climate in Cozumel is entirely predictable and manageable to plan around. With little temperature difference throughout the year (the average temperature lingers around 83 degrees F), most travelers must pay attention to the rainy hurricane season.
January – April
Peak season is perfect weather-wise but sees the highest influx of tourists. If you are not a people person, this is something to consider.
May–October
It is the hottest and most rainy month of the year, but there is still plenty of sunshine and fantastic warm water for snorkeling & diving. Also, the hurricane season peaks in September and October, so monitor the forecasts and get travel insurance just in case. Fewer tourists mean lower rates at hotels, resorts, and tour companies during this time.
November–December
Many consider the autumn-winter months to be the best time to visit Cozumel. The hurricane season has passed, and the humidity is low. However, it can sometimes be a little “chilly” in the evenings.
What Is There to Do in Cozumel? Scuba Diving and More
Cozumel is Mexico’s premier diving destination, so if you would like to explore the marine life of the Mesoamerican Reef, this is the ideal place to do it. The island is home to vibrant coral reefs, which are ecologically important as critical habitats for many marine species. The rich marine life also includes sea turtles, adding to the allure for divers and snorkelers. There are great options for both scuba diving and snorkeling in this protected natural environment, offering exceptional experiences beyond the busy town of San Miguel de Cozumel. Cozumel’s white sand beaches are great for a relaxing afternoon. A sandy beach club with a relaxed atmosphere provides an attractive spot for leisure and dining. You can also visit the San Gervasio archaeological site, wander through the botanical gardens at Chankanaab Park, or shop in the island’s principal town of San Miguel de Cozumel.
Accommodations in Cozumel
Cozumel offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. There’s something for everyone, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. Many of the island’s resorts and hotels are located along the beach, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Popular options include the InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa, the Explorean Cozumel, and the Iberostar Cozumel. For those seeking a more homey and flexible stay, vacation rentals such as apartments, houses, and condos are available, making them ideal for families and groups. Whether you’re looking for luxury or affordability, Cozumel has the perfect place to rest and relax.