Destination information
One of the world's top dive destinations, Cozumel offers undersea reefs with fairy-tale landscapes, while its stunning Caribbean beaches lure landlubbers.
A 40km long island directly off the coast from Playa del Carmen, this is Mexico’s largest island, yet it remains relatively undeveloped and covered in dense jungle which provides a haven for exotic flora and fauna. The northern coast of Cozumel is home to the beaches of Playa San Francisco and Playa Palancar, whilst the eastern coast of Cozumel faces the Caribbean and is the best place to look for unspoilt, deserted beaches
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The island has been popular since Jacques Cousteau first showed the world its spectacular reefs and it is all about the water here - shimmering, clear-as-glass aquamarine sea that makes you want to kick off your shoes, slip on your fins, and dive right in and get up close and personal with the rainbow coral and exotic marine life. Cozumel offers a luxurious beach holiday, with modern hotels where you can sunbathe on pure white sand, sipping a cool drink whilst relaxing under your own palapa hut.
Residents congregate around the plaza Sunday evenings to enjoy live music and chat with friends and in February there is a Carnaval which brings dancers festooned with feathers out into the streets.
Eats & drinks
Dining options here reflect the islands nature with casual dress and no reservations expected. Breakfast rules here on Cozumel. Start the day with a glass of tropical fruit juice and a local favourite, huevos divorciados (fried eggs on corn tortillas). Nearly every menu involves seafood and you’ll find some very inventive seafood combinations throughout the island, with the best dining experiences to be found in small, family-owned restaurants.
Getting around
Passenger-only ferries to Playa del Carmen run every hour and the trip takes approx. 45 minutes. Buses are limited to San Miguel, so a rental car is recommended if you want to get out and about. Bicycles are still a primary means of travel with locals, so there are bike paths for some of the busier highway areas.
Star attractions
- White Sands
- Warm Turquoise Waters
- Island Retreat
- Mayan Ruins
- Coral Reefs
Additional info
Time zone offset: GMT -6 Hours
Language: Spanish
Currency: Mexican Peso
Different destinations have different magic touches so make sure to check out the "Rockstar Service" to see what makes your holiday with us so special.
Getting there
From June 2012: Fly non-stop from London Gatwick on Virgin Atlantic's award-winning service to Cancun. Flight time: 11 hours.
Pre June 2012: Fly non-stop from London Heathrow on Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning service to Miami, where you conveniently connect on to your short flight to Cancun. (An overnight stay in Miami may be required). Flight time: Approx 10 hours to Miami, 1 hour 15 min from Miami to Cancun.
Please note: Only holidays beginning in June 2012 are web bookable. For holidays that start before June 2012 please call our call centre.