Cozumel Island is just right across Playa del Carmen. It is an island gifted with beauty and a tranquility that has won over many a tourist's heart. It will captivate you with its natural charm, crystal clear waters, stunning sunsets and top-notch beaches.

Cozumel Island is just off the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and belongs to the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. The island is relatively small (29 miles long and 12 miles wide), with San Miguel de Cozumel as its main town.

Cozumel is Mayan for “Island of Swallows.” It was a sacred island dedicated to the goddess Ixchel and there were many temples for pilgrimages in her honor. Sadly, some of these ruins were bulldozed to make way for more modern amenities, such as an airplane runway. That said, there still are some ruins remaining, the largest of which is San Gervasio.

Cozumel Island was rated by the famed Jacques Cousteau as one of the best diving spots in the world- and with good reason, as the coral reefs are simply amazing. The island itself is paradise. The undeveloped part of the island is covered with swampy lagoons and a lush jungle that is home to birds and a variety of other creatures. It is also the nesting area of some marine turtles.

Diving and Snorkeling in Cozumel

Cozumel is first and foremost a diving and snorkeling spot. Passionate divers and snorkelers just can't wait to come back! The reefs are home to a multitude of fish, one of which is a Splendid Toadfish. So get your gear and be prepared for one unforgettable scuba diving experience.

Here are some of the diving attractions in Cozumel:

• Paradise Reef
• Palancar reef
• The Devil's Throat
• Santa Rosa Wall

If you are not into diving or snorkeling, you can still see the treasures underneath by taking the Atlantis Submarine Tour. This takes you way down in a safe capsule piloted by highly experienced crew. Another option is to take a glass-bottomed boat.

Cenotes in Cozumel

Cozumel is also blessed with these deep water-filled sinkholes that also make great diving spots.

Nature Tripping in Cozumel

Get to know the species endemic to the island, such as the Great Curassow, Cozumel Island Raccoon, the thrasher, the fox and the toadfish. You can also go to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, which is one of Mexico's largest parks and home to more than 350 bird species.

Nightlife & Shopping in Cozumel

Shop and party for as long as you can and want- Cozumel Island is a great place to do both.

Climbing Adventure Tour in Cozumel

With abseiling towers, climbing walls and a zipline, the park is great for those who want a challenge.

How to Get to Cozumel

Take the regular ferry from the ferry dock at Playa del Carmen. After all, Playa del Carmen started as a jumping board for Cozumel until it started getting recognized as a tourist destination in its own right. Ferries leave Playa del Carmen every hour on the hour, beginning at 5:00 a.m. and running until 10:00 p.m. The ferry ride takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the weather.