When it comes to stunning islands, Mexico has more than 4,000 providing you with plenty of options to choose from. Two of the most popular and stunning choices are Isla Mujeres and Cozumel. If you are deciding between the two, this post is for you. Here, we’ll share everything you need to know to make your choice that much easier.
First, let’s take a look at Cozumel:
Cozumel
Cozumel is of the largest islands in Mexico, and it is nestled amongst an incredible reef ecosystem. It is equally as beautiful on land as it is underwater. Cozumel is considered a sacred island and it has a long and rich history. It was once a sanctuary for the goddess of Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and the moon.
Things to do in Cozumel
There is an abundance of things to do here in Cozumel. On this beautiful island you can:
- Relax or swim at the beach
- Spends a few hours at San Miguel de Cozumel
- Snorkel at El Cielo, Palancar and Columbia Reef.
- Kick back and relax at a beach club
- Check out the incredible street art
- Visit Punta Sur Eco Park
- Go on a buggy tour
- And so much more
How do you get there?
The only ways to travel to Cozumel are via boat, with a cancun airplane tours, or helicopter and at Riviera Charters, we offer all three of these! You may want to see Cozumel from above and take a scenic over it, or you may want to jump on a luxury yacht tour and spend the day on the water and exploring the island – the choice is yours!
Can you stay at Cozumel?
Yes, you can! There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from at Cozumel all ranging in price points and types of stays. You can also hire a luxury yacht tour and stay out on the water for something a little more special and unique than the normal accommodation options. Waking up on the pristine waters of the Cozumel is an unbeatable experience.
Let’s take a look at Isla Mujeres:
Isla Mujeres
The island of Isla Mujeres, traditionally known as the Island of Women, is only 15 minutes from Cancun. This island’s atmosphere is intentionally created to allow visitors to simultaneously engage in both cultural and recreational experiences. It is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in the Mexican Caribbean.
Things to do in Isla Mujeres
- Relax at Playa Norte
- Visit The Cancun Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA)
- Check out the Ixchel Ruins & Punta Sur
- Go on a sunset cruise
- Pose in front of the Isla Mujeres sign
- Head out to the reefs snorkeling or scuba diving
- Grab a bite to eat Avenida Miguel Hidalgo
- Observe the street beautiful street art and murals
- And so much more
How do you get there?
You can drive to Isla Mujeres although, it isn’t recommended because parking is limited. The best modes of transport are by ferry, boat, helicopter, or airplane.
Can you stay at Isla Mujeres
Yes, you can. Accommodation options are plentiful and like Cozumel. We also offer yacht options that include stopovers to Isla Mujeres if you are interested in spending some time on the water while you are here.
So, which is the better option? Cozumel or Isla Mujeres?
Despite having certain commonalities, both provide completely distinct experiences and attractions to their tourists. Below we’ll answer some common questions about the two to help you compare and decide which one you think will be a better fit for your vacation:
Which has better snorkeling?
Both Isla Mujeres and Cozumel have vast underwater locations that are great for snorkeling.
Amazing snorkel and scuba locations like the Manchones Reef, the cave of the sleeping sharks, and the MUSA underwater museum, can all be found in Isla Mujeres.
El Cielo beach, the Natural Park Chankannab, and the Palancar and Paraiso reefs, are the ideal locations in Cozumel to practice snorkeling and scuba diving.
However, the most spectacular reefs can be found at Cozumel. The marine life and corals here are more diversified.
Which is bigger?
One of the most distinctive differences between the two islands is that Cozumel and vastly bigger than Isla Mujeres. As a result, it offers plenty of sightseeing and activities, making it a particularly intriguing place to visit. Isla Mujeres on the other hand is much smaller, and you can explore much of the island on foot or by golf cart. Isla Mujeres makes the perfect escape to take in the serenity, whereas Cozumel makes the ideal place to travel around and explore.
Which island has more to do?
As mentioned, Cozumel is bigger than Isla Mujeres, and therefore there is more to do there. If you’re looking for a more relaxed holiday, Isla Mujeres is probably the best bet, and if you’re looking for plenty of stuff to do, Cozumel has more on offer.
What is the most popular activity on each island?
With both offering spectacular snorkeling and scuba opportunities, the most popular activity for both would have to be this. You can go out on a tour to explore, or you can simply snorkel off the beach. As the water at both islands is turquoise and crystal clear, the underwater viewing is second to none. This also makes for standout photographs too!
Will it be Cozumel or Isla Mujeres for your next holiday destination?
We hope this post has explained a bit about the two and that you are one step closer to deciding. In our opinion, both are equally spectacular spots to visit. No matter which one you choose, both features brimming palm trees, white sandy beaches, and plenty of sunshine – what more could you ask for from a vacation? If you have the time, why not explore both, and then you can see them for yourself. After all, this is one of the best ways to decide if you love a place or not.
At Riviera Charters, we offer trips to Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, and our services include luxury yacht tours, snorkel trips, scuba diving, whale shark tours, helicopter tours, airplane tours, and so much more! For more information, feel free to reach out to our friendly team, we’d love to help you create the itinerary of a lifetime.
