DK Travel : Cancún and the Yucatán : Cozumel and the South

The southern stetch of the Riviera is the less publicized, less built-up part of this coast, but still offers the choice between luxury resorts and out-of-the-way places – except that here the resorts are not so hectic, and the untouched corners are more remote. Offshore, Cozumel is a super-relaxing island that offers fantastic diving opportunities. Onshore are some of the Caribbean’s most dazzling tropical beaches, such as the seven bays of Xpu-Ha and the crescent of Media Luna Bay. They lead down the coast to the great beach refuge of Tulum, with its Mayan temple ruins. A little way inland is another great Mayan site, the forest-clad city of Cobá.

For places to stay on Cozumel see Luxury Hotels, Resort Hotels, Mid-Range Hotels on the Riviera, Mid-Range Hotels Elsewhere, Guesthouses and B&Bs , Budget Accommodation For more on the best beaches on Cozumel and around the south

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Aktun-Chen Cave

This giant cave and cenote system, an awesome series of chambers and stalagmite towers, is in thick jungle in a nature park; it was only recently discovered.
Aktun-Ha Cenote

Another fine swimming-hole cenote amid rocks and woods toward Cobá. Snorkelers can explore the huge main cavern; divers (with guides) can go further.
Akumal

Long a favorite dive destination, with fabulous reefs and places for cave diving, Akumal has grown a good deal without being overwhelmed. It spreads over several long, lovely bays – Media Luna is the most beautiful, with the delightful Yal-Ku lagoon (see Laguna Yal-Ku, Akumal). There are more apartments, villas, and small hotels than big developments, so it’s still quite easy to find secluded spots – certainly the turtles try to, and the beaches near Akumal village are favorite breeding grounds.
Akumal Village

The beach in the center of Akumal is a little busier, and behind it there’s a bigger choice of lowkey bars and shops.
Ambar Lounge, Cozumel

This bar/restaurant located in a white-walled colonial house is the place for quality Italian food and potent cocktails. You can also relax in the large garden
Cabañas Paamul

Deep shade and an ideal view over the beach make the bar in the Paamul cabañas and camping site (see Cabañas María del Mar, Isla Mujeres) a great place to get refreshed after time in the sun. Snacks are also available.
Café del Museo, Cozumel

This very relaxing, pretty café on the roof of Cozumel’s museum (see Museo de Cozumel) has a great view of the waterfront and good coffee. Tasty breakfasts and snacks too.
Capricho, Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras’ own disco-bar is unpredictable – sometimes quiet, sometimes buzzing. The music is eclectic.
Carlos‘n’Charlie’s, Cozumel

Cozumel’s biggest bar-restaurant-music venue is the place where you’re assured of finding a (usually pretty raucous) crowd every night, partying in the open air to classic rock circa 1970 to 2000.
Casa Denis, Cozumel

One of the island’s oldest restaurants, in a wooden house just off the square. To eat, there are classic Yucatecan dishes (see Dishes of the Yucatán), at low prices.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $5
- $5-$10
- $10-$20
- $20–$35
- over 35