The Cozumel Honeymoon Guide for an Island Escape
Unlike its bustling neighbor Cancun, Cozumel is relatively quiet with less than 10% of this 189-square-mile island in Mexico developed. Located 12 miles off the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula and fringed by beautiful reefs, "the land of the swallows" offers clear turquoise waters and wide, white-sand beaches. It takes a life of its own, despite having built a bit of a reputation for being a frequent cruise stop.
If you and your partner are into diving and snorkeling, Cozumel's surrounding turquoise water is worth exploring. Its beautiful beaches and diving sights along the Mesoamerican Reef make the trip worthwhile.
Is Cozumel Good for a Honeymoon?
In total, Cozumel is the best destination for beach-adoring couples, especially those traveling from the East Coast. The total flight time to Cozumel is just under four hours from New York, though you're a world away with world-class snorkeling and scuba diving upon arrival.
The Pros of a Cozumel Honeymoon
Ask anyone and they'll say the water surrounding Cozumel is a special version of crystal clear. The island's wildlife is incredible to witness, alongside its beautiful coral reefs, white-sand beaches and more. If you love the water, this is truly a lovely romantic getaway that's close to the East Coast.
The Cons of a Cozumel Honeymoon
The weather isn't always favorable in Cozumel, where peak hurricane season arrives August to October (the season technically lasts from late May-early November). The height of tourism season (which includes those cruise ships) falls between January through April.
The Best Times of Year to Go on a Cozumel Honeymoon for Good Weather
Aim for late November through December for ideal honeymoon weather. The sea water is still on the warmer side and it cools off at night, giving you a break from the humidity. When booking your trip, keep in mind that you'll want to avoid hurricane season which generally starts in late May and goes until early November. Otherwise, Cozumel is pleasant for the remainder of the year. (Another pro tip: don't forget to purchase honeymoon insurance.)
Things to Do During a Cozumel Honeymoon
Explore the Lighthouses
The two most popular lighthouses on the island are Punta Molas and Punta Sur's Celerain, located on opposite ends of the land mass. This gives couples a chance to explore everything that Cozumel has to offer along the way in a car rental.
Snorkel Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park
There's a wide variety of diving and snorkeling locations throughout the Caribbean, but starting at Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park will give guests access to part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest reef system in the world, where divers can potentially view anything from tropical fish and turtles, to manatees and dolphins. Be sure to check out the Museo Subacuático de Arte's underwater sculptures, as well.
Stingray Beach
Visit Stingray Beach to safely swim with stingrays and watch them glide gracefully through the water. Although they do have plenty of wonderful snorkeling tours where you can potentially see these animals in the wild, these parks are great for visitors who want to experience the animals without much risk or that don't feel safe in the open ocean.
Experience the Village of San Miguel de Cozumel
Head into town and explore the beautiful village of San Miguel. Listen to live bands and music while you explore the main square. Stop by to observe the San Miguel de Cozumel or take a tour through the Mayan Bee Sanctuary
Visit Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
If you're looking for something a little less wild, and for a more controlled environment, there's the Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park. Guests can try their hand at snuba, take a tequila tour, snorkel, scuba dive, and more.
Visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
The park is filled with thousands of acres where visitors can explore beautiful birds and crocodiles, among other wildlife while snorkeling. In addition to the beautiful animals the park can attract, there are Mayan ruins like the Zona Arqueológica San Gervasio in Quintana Roo, the site of ruins from Maya civilization.
The Best Hotels and Resorts in Cozumel for a Honeymoon
InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort
The InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort is located right on its island with a private beach. Not only is it close to downtown, but it's only a short drive to plenty of great diving and snorkeling spots, along with other excursions like Ruinas and Punta Sur. On the property, guests can enjoy snorkeling classes, PADI courses, or even dining right at the hotel with beautiful ocean views.
Cozumel Palace All-Inclusive Resort
The Cozumel Palace All-Inclusive Resort is another all-inclusive resort where you can just simply relax after the stress of planning your wedding. Splurge for a suite with a balcony overlooking the Caribbean Sea, hammocks to rock to sleep for a nice post beach, pre-dinner nap, or even spacious soaking tubs to relax your muscles after a day of swimming.
Occidental Cozumel
The Occidental Cozumel is a gorgeous resort in Mexico near Palancar Reef. You're even close to playa Del Carmen, 45 minutes away by ferry. The all-inclusive has beautiful tropical gardens to explore, white sand beaches with turquoise waters, and plenty of mangroves.
Grand Park Royal Cozumel
The Grand Park Royal Cozumel has a reputation of being one of the best hotels in Cozumel. The five-star resort keeps it modern and simple, but offers beautiful experiences at the hotel. You're surrounded by stunning beaches with clear water, gorgeous infinity pools, jacuzzis for a soak after the beach, a spa to schedule relaxing treatments, and incredible dining experiences right on the property.
What to Pack for a Cozumel Honeymoon
When you're going to a beachfront property for your honeymoon, you'll want to have everything you need for a good beach day: sunscreen, sandals, something to read, music options, bathing suits, sunglasses, and maybe even a little mesh bag for stylish photos. You generally don't have to worry about towels as the resort should have those for you. Make sure you have at least one light sweater or jacket for the evening when it begins to cool off, and plenty of loose, cotton clothing, like maxi dresses or breathable shorts.
Cozumel Honeymoon Tour Packages
In Cozumel, there's a wide selection of resorts offering honeymoon packages to couples looking to relax on the beach and explore the underwater oasis Cozumel has to offer. The all-inclusive options make it easy for couples, so they don't have to worry about pulling out their wallet every two seconds and can just relax. Couples can also craft their own Cozumel honeymoon package using services like TripAdvisor and Viator.
–Lori Seto contributed to this article.