Cozumel

Location: off the coast of Quintana Roo State, Caribbean Sea, southeast Mexico
Distance from Cancun: 50 miles
Island’s population: 65,000
Closest major airport: San Miguel Airport on Cozumel, Cancun International Airport (CUU)
Web site: www.islacozumel.com.mx

Cozumel is the largest inhabited island in Mexico, known as the plunging paradise for divers from all over the world. The island is located east of the Yucatan Peninsula on top of the age-old structures of the Mayan coral reef – the second largest in the world. The island’s lagoon is connected to the sea by narrow canals with underwater caves, bursting with multicolored tropical fish and unique inland reefs. The beaches in Cozumel are surrounded by dense tropical vegetation and unusual endemic species, and while these are also characteristic of the island, its greatest wealth is undoubtedly underwater.

Water sports dominate the scene in Cozumel. About 80,000 of the island's annual visitors come to Cozumel for one thing: the area's incomparable scuba diving. With more than 20 miles of reefs, water visibility to 200 feet, and more than 200 species of tropic fish, it's easy to see why it was a favorite spot for French oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. The area's exceptional diving over-shadows Cozumel's excellent fishing. billfish, including marlin and sailfish, are caught within a quarter-mile off shore.

The Island of Cozumel measures 30 miles from north to south and 10 miles from east to west. It is bordered on both sides by stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Travelers looking for ultimate relaxation in a more private setting can head to the quaint beaches of La Pasión, located just north of the island of Cozumel, where the only sounds heard are the crash of soothing waves and exotic birds chirping. San Miguel de Cozumel, the capital of the island, is also worth visiting for some quiet time in a colorful setting. The peaceful old village has all the charm of the Mexican Caribbean with top-quality cuisine that is legendary throughout the region.

Cozumel has a rich, prehispanic past, reflected in its nearly 25 archaeological zones. While the majority is still in exploration stages, San Gervasio and San Cedral are worth a visit. Shopping for souvenirs is another frequented activity in Cozumel, particularly in places like Bazar del Angel, Casablanca and La Campana, all located along the Avenida Melgar. The handicrafts market is located a few blocks from the main square, while other more expensive shops exhibiting art work, like Los Cinco Soles, Playa del Angel and Talavera, are spread throughout the island.