The crystal-clear waters of Cozumel have earned it a reputation for having some of the best diving in the world, with visibility up to 200 feet. There are two main coral reefs that make up the second-longest barrier reef in the world. Much of it is protected as part of an underwater national park. The waters are filled with more than 200 species of tropical fish, turtles, rays, eels and sponges. You'll also see the hulls of wrecked Spanish galleons.
Housed in one of Cozumel's first waterfront hotels, this museum features exhibits on the island's history and natural environment. Here you'll find explanations of Cozumel's ecosystems and conservation challenges, ancient Mayan artifacts and relics from the conquistadores. If you are interested in Mexican history, this is the place to go.
Museo de la Isla de Cozumel
Avenue Rafael Melgar at Calle 6
Cozumel, Q. Roo Mexico
+52-987-872-1434
Play golf on a course that takes you through tropical rain forests, marshlands and mangrove swamps, where iguanas, crocodiles and tropical birds watch all the action. This first-class golf course was designed by Steve Nicklaus of Nicklaus Design, a company founded by golf star Jack Nicklaus. Such great care has gone into the protection of the natural environment that the course earned a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary designation from Audubon International.
Cozumel Country Club
Carretera Costera Norte, KM 6.5 Interior Casa Club
Cozumel, Q. Roo, Mexico 77600
+52-987-872-9570
cozumelcountryclub.com.mx/course/
Want to experience the entire culture of Mexico in one place? Discover Mexico, Cozumel's newest park, offers visitors just that. In the Video Experience Room you will get a bird's-eye view of the country, from Baja to the Yucatan Peninsula. Galleries display popular art, with handmade pieces by the best of Mexico's artisans. There is even a replica of Chichen Itza's Kukulkan pyramid.
Discover Mexico
Carretera Costera sur km. 5,5 Zona Hotelera Sur
Cozumel, Q. Roo México
+52-987-857-2820
discovermexico.org/default.asp
Mayan women who wanted to get pregnant made the voyage from the mainland to Isla de Cozumel to honor Ixchel, the goddess of love and fertility, at temples scattered around the island. Ruins of these temples still survive; the largest concentration is in San Gervasio near the center of the island. Some structures still display manitas, or hand prints. But beware: Some say Ixchel still rewards acts of homage.
