Punta Sur Cozumel Adventure Guide: TOP Things to Do, and See
Punta Sur Cozumel Adventure Guide: TOP Things to Do, and See
Welcome to the enchanting island of Cozumel, where turquoise waters meet pristine white sands, and lush landscapes beckon the adventurous spirit.
Nestled on the southern tip of this tropical haven lies Punta Sur, a natural sanctuary that encapsulates the essence of Cozumel’s untouched beauty.
If you’re craving a thrilling escape filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse marine life, and rich cultural experiences, look no further.
In this comprehensive guide, I will show you the top activities that make Punta Sur a must-visit destination for any avid explorer.
From vibrant coral reefs to ancient Mayan ruins, embark on a journey with me and learn the secrets of Punta Sur, Cozumel’s most captivating adventure playground.
Where exactly is the Punta Sur Eco Park in Cozumel?
As you may know, Cozumel is an island in the Mexican Caribbean, and Punta Sur is located on the southern tip of it.
Cozumel is a popular cruise ship destination and is known for its beautiful coral reefs, clear blue waters, and vibrant marine life.
How to get to Punta Sur
You can visit the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park on your own (without an agency) or with a tour.
In both cases, you will have to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel.
I recommend you to get on the first ferry that leaves at 9 am with Ultramar, so you will probably arrive at Punta Sur around 11 am.
If you decide to rent a car in Cancun or Playa del Carmen, I suggest you cross with it, it will be much more comfortable!
- Ferry without car: departure from Terminal Marítima Navega next to Parque Fundadores with Ultramar or Winjet
- Ferry with car: departure from Punta Venado to Calica with Transcaribe or Ultramar Carga
For all the details about transportation, feel free to read my complete article about Cozumel.
Going to Punta Sur Eco Beach Park on your own
Again, Punta Sur is located south of the island of Cozumel, about 30 km from the arrival dock.
On your GPS, set the Rasta Bar as a reference point for the entrance to the Eco Beach park.
It is easy to get there by car (35 min), as there is only one road (Quintana Roo C-1), so you can’t get lost and it is very safe.
You can also take part on the Coastal Highway, which is quieter, but at some point, it becomes a road only for bicycles and pedestrians.
If you don’t have a car, you will have to rent one when you arrive in Cozumel. Or if you want to reserve in advance, go here.
On a tight budget, a scooter is the best option, but if you can afford it (or if you are traveling with 3-4 people to split the expenses) better get a Jeep or SUV.
Taking a cab or scooter to Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
I honestly don’t recommend either, here’s why:
-Cabs are overpriced considering the distance and above all very limiting because the cab will drop you off at the entrance, but you will have to move around in the Punta Sur park.
If you decide to go to Punta Sur by cab, I recommend that you make arrangements with the same driver to pick you up on the way back.
-Scooters have several advantages (a cheap option that allows you to ride the Coastal Highway which is in good condition, very quiet, and with almost no traffic for a long stretch).
But, it takes about an hour and a half each way with the heat and the sun, so unless you have the whole day ahead of you and you really like biking, it is not the most practical way to get there.
What to see and do in Punta Sur Cozumel’s Eco Park
Punta Sur is the largest nature reserve in Cozumel.
It is an ecological park of about 2400 acres and is home to numerous species, such as crocodiles, pink flamingos, and sea turtles, that come to lay their eggs among lakes, mangroves, marshes, and beaches.
Enjoy a spectacular view from the Lighthouse
The Celerain Lighthouse (sometimes spelled Celarain) is a must-see in Punta Sur.
It is a 30-meter-tall white structure that houses the small navigation museum and offers a spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea and lakes to those willing to climb its 133 steps.
You may want to read: Isla Mujeres or Cozumel: Decoding Mexico’s Island Charms
Around it, there is also an area with hammocks and chairs to relax in front of the sea – there are even swings!
Explore the Colombia Lagoon
The Colombia Lagoon is home to 24 species of amphibians and reptiles, 223 birds, 16 mammals, 22 bats, and several endemic species.
I recommend taking the boat ride with a guide (Spanish/English), which is very interesting. I saw several flamingos and two crocodiles.
Furthermore, it’s a good opportunity to rest in the shade!
There are only three departures per day at 12:00, 13:00 and 14:00.
Relax at the Beach in Punta Sur, Cozumel
With its fine sand and calm, transparent, and shallow waters, Punta Sur beach is the perfect place to end your visit to the park.
There are several beach clubs in Punta Sur, such as Bahía Azul, Anemona de Mar, Tikin Xic, and El Cielo. I don’t know which one is better, as I have only been to Bahía Azul.
The lounge chairs are comfortable, the service is good, and there is a snack menu (hamburgers, quesadillas, guacamole, etc., 180-290 pesos) and cocktails (150-280 pesos).
It’s not cheap, but there is no minimum consumption here and on the beach, prices are always a bit high. But at least this one is very nice and clean.
Since we were on a limited budget and arrived a bit late, we settled for two beers (80 pesos each).
You can also rent snorkeling equipment including life jackets and fins (14 USD per person), or a kayak (1-2 people 19 USD for 1 hour).
Massages are also available. You can negotiate the price with the masseuse.
Admire El Caracol archaeological site
El Caracol (snail) is a Mayan temple (13th-16th century) that served as a reference point for boats.
It got the name for its shape and for the snails that adorn its vaulted ceiling, a unique decoration in the area.
Some call it the Snail Tomb because its small size makes it look like a funerary monument, but it is not.
Nearby there is also a pier and an observation tower facing the X’tacun lagoon, where you can see crocodiles and various birds!
Grab a cocktail at the Rasta Bar
At the entrance to the park is the Rasta bar.
At first, I thought it was a tourist trap, but after a 45-minute scooter ride, we needed a break before entering Punta Sur Park.
In the end, I loved it: very nice decor, direct access to the beach, friendly service, good guacamole (115 pesos), and well-crafted cocktails.
Punta Sur Cozumel: Tips to visit the Eco Park
To make the most of your time, I recommend visiting Punta Sur in this order:
- Arrive in the morning, as early as possible (9 am if you are already in Cozumel, but if you have to take the ferry it will probably be around 11 am).
- Visit the Celerain Lighthouse (museum and observation tower)
- Tour the Colombia Lagoon, depending on the time, as there are only 3 departures per day (12:00, 13:00 and 14:00)
- Relax on the beach
- Lookout at X’Tacún Lagoon
- Visit El Caracol Archaeological Site
- Cocktail time at Rasta Bar
Going to Punta Sur with a tour
If you’d rather avoid the stress of thinking about renting and driving, another great option is to book a tour.
This is a 5-hour tour that includes transportation to and from Punta Sur, a visit to the lighthouse and Mayan archaeological site, the Colombia Lagoon, and free time on the beach.
Most of this tour is done on regular bikes so you can appreciate the scenery.
How much is the entrance fee to Punta Sur Eco Beach Park?
The entrance fee to Punta Sur is 360 pesos for adults (22 USD), for children 4 to 12 is 238 pesos (14 USD), and for children under 3 is free.
Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm (closed Sunday)
Where to stay to visit Punta Sur
Depending on your schedule, you can decide to spend the night, or two, in Cozumel or the Riviera Maya, for example in Playa del Carmen.
Sleeping in Cozumel
Staying in Cozumel is a very good idea if you want to enjoy the island since most visitors come only for the day.
Here are the best places to stay depending on your budget and needs:
Hacienda Boutique Mi Casa tu Casa B&B: This hacienda-style house boasts an authentic and colorful Mexican charm, an outdoor pool, and a jacuzzi.
Delicious traditional breakfast and an excellent welcome from the hosts.
Villas El Encanto Cozumel: If you need more “homestyle” comfort, I recommend this place that features air-conditioned apartments and bungalows with kitchenettes and terraces.
There’s a nice garden, swimming pool, hammocks and lounge chairs. It offers excellent value for money.
Allegro Cozumel All-Inclusive: The Allegro is an all-inclusive hotel in Cozumel ideal for families.
It is on the beautiful San Francisco beach with many activities available (beach volleyball, yoga, snorkeling, kayaking, etc), a playground and a kids club, and 3 swimming pools, one of them with slides.
Meliá Cozumel All Inclusive: If you seek tranquility, this is an all-inclusive hotel with a beautiful private beach, spacious rooms, a full spa, and two pools, one of them only for adults with a bar.
Make sure to get a room with an ocean view. It’s truly magical!
Sleeping in Playa del Carmen
You can also sleep in Playa del Carmen and make the round trip in one day to visit Punta Sur.
Again, these are some of the best places to stay depending on your budget and needs:
Che Playa Hostel & Bar Adults Only: This is an ideal spot to meet other travelers and party, rooftop terrace with a bar and small pool, they also organize several activities.
This hostel is very clean, has good wifi and a great atmosphere, starting at only 10 USD for a dorm room and 55 for a private room!
Hotel Lunata: This charming hotel has a hacienda-style decor, tucked away on Fifth Avenue, very close to the beach.
Quiet, with a garden, rooms with balcony, and friendly service.
Porto Playa Condo Beach Club: At Porto Playa, you will find a spacious apartment ideal for a family, with a fully equipped kitchen, living room, and terrace.
The hotel features a large swimming pool, gym, and restaurant.
The Reef 28- Adults Only: This all-inclusive hotel is in the center of Playa del Carmen, with spacious rooms, a beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking the sea, a pool, and a Jacuzzi.
There’s also a fully-equipped gym, spa, and excellent breakfast buffet.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive: This is perhaps, the best and most sought-after hotel in Playa del Carmen!
Ideal for couples and families with children as this luxury hotel offers an exceptional package that includes meals and access to its parks (Xcaret, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xel-Ha and Xenote).
You may want to read: Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue: TOP Must-Do Activities
Visiting Cozumel’s Punta Sur Eco Beach Park: Conclusion
As you have seen today, Punta Sur in Cozumel is a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
From its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife to its rich cultural and historical significance, Punta Sur offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
Whether you’re exploring the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, climbing to the top of the Celarain Lighthouse for panoramic views, or discovering the underwater wonders of the Colombia Reef, this adventure guide has highlighted the top things to do and see in this stunning destination.
So pack your sense of curiosity and embark on an unforgettable journey at Punta Sur Cozumel – a destination that promises not just a vacation, but an enriching and revitalizing experience.
