Mexico's Cancun & Cozumel
Why Cancun
and Cozumel
are specialCancun is one of the most popular tourism destination in the Caribbean. Cozumel is broadly recognized as one of the world's best diving destinations.
Cancun vs Cozumel
Which is better?
It's Cancun if you want...
- Big hotel-resorts (photo)
- Party scene
- Nightlife
- Broad dining options
- Nearness to Chichen Itza
- Diving and snorkeling (photo)
- Smaller crowds
- Nearness to Tulum ruins
Be prepared for crowds during the winter months
This is true in Cozumel and especially in Cancun. Neither is going to be a pleasant vacation for travelers seeking a quiet, personalized vacation. But they will appeal to those desiring an active social atmosphere.
What they have in common
Both Cancun and Cozumel have good beaches and, usually, good prices.
Where do cruise ships dock?
In Cozumel, ships tie up to a pier. You step off the vessel onto the shore. However in Cancun, cruise passengers must be tendered to shore, a trip that takes about 20 minutes.
Is Cancun an island?
Yes, partially so. Cancun is divided into two sections, one is on the mainland, the other is a bona fide Caribbean island. It's the latter section that's home to dozens of large resort hotels. Two bridges connect it to the mainland.
Cozumel's location
The island lies 20 kilometers off the Yucatan Peninsula coast and 70 kilometers (45 miles) south of Cancun.
How Cancun came to be
It was a small, sleepy fishing village until the 1970s when the Mexican government decided to transform it into a world-renowned vacation destination.
Isla de Mujeres
Those seeking the opposite of Cancun's hyper-fueled lifestyle might wish to check out Isla de Mujeres, which lies just north of Cancun. Serious tourism hasn't yet knocked on its door.
Location Maps
