There are so many fun things to do in Cozumel that it can be overwhelming to decide which ones are best for families with kids. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 activities that are perfect for families. We also provide detailed information from a family perspective on what you need to know about each activity.
Bee Sanctuary in Cozumel
Are your kids just buzzing with adventure, then maybe checking out this local bee sanctuary is for you. If you are worried about bees, then feel good knowing these Mayan bees are stingless. This is a fun and educational extrusion with a bit of sweetness. This Sanctuary opened up in 2019, it aims to teach about the Melipona bees, their environment, and the culture and traditions of the Mayans. Lastly to teach the beauty of sustainability of beekeeping.
What’s Included
The Sanctuary is open from Monday to Saturday. A general admission ticket will give you access to a unique experience that lasts for one hour. You will begin with a Mayan purification ritual, followed by a visit to the Meliponary, where you can learn about Mayan traditions and taste the most wonderful honey. Inside the sanctuary, you can also find a natural water hole surrounded by a lush native landscape, which is a must-see. It is recommended to wear proper footwear since some of the pavement may be uneven, and biodegradable sunscreen is also recommended.
Price and Transportation
The cost for General admission is $11.50 per person adult and child. Extra optional costs would be food, drinks tips, and purchases from the gift shop. This will require a 15-minute taxi ride to and from the port.
Invisible boat Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel
This is a very unique experience for families with smaller children, or families that want to experience snorkeling without getting wet. This is very different from a glass-bottom boat tour because the entire boat is transparent. With each boat only allowing 16 people you are sure to have enough room to spread out and enjoy the tropical marine life.
What’s Included
This is a 1 hour and 45-minute tour, that includes drinks and a guided reef snorkeling spot for those that want to get into the water. All gear and safety equipment are included, along with a certified crew.
Pricing, Booking, and Location Information
Pricing runs about $59 for adults and children over eleven, and $55 for children three to ten years of age. There is also a $5 per person marine fee. For this, you will need to take a short 10-minute taxi ride to the Carlota Beach Club which is where you will check in. You can Book this Activity on Expedia or through your cruise line if they offer it.
Chankanaab Park Cozumel
Chankanaab park is a great destination for families with members of all ages. This park is divided into five distinct areas on the map, making it easy to navigate. These areas are The Beach, Lagoon, Zipline, Snorkeling and Aquatic activities, the Mayan Ruins trail and Botanical Gardens, and The Dolphin, Manatee, and Sea Lion area. With so many different options available, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.
The Beach
The beach area is perfect for lounging and making sand castles. This area is located close to the water entrance points. Unfortunately, these access points are downstairs with a very rocky edge. I definitely recommend bringing water shoes. This area also offers food and drink runners that will take your orders from the comfort of your shaded chair.
Lagoon and Zipline
This area is good for older children and adults who like a little thrill. Ziplining is a good way to get your adrenaline pumping. This area can also be fun for kids who want to look at the crocodile and beautiful native fish in the Lagoon.
Snorkeling and Aquatic Activities
Snorkeling is a great activity to do with older children, they offer a 3-reef dive experience which is about 30 to 40 minutes. They supply you with all the equipment needed, you can also bring your own. The sunken sculptures are a must-see when you are at Chankanaab. A few other options offered are Snuba-ing, Seatrek-ing, and a clear bottom kayak. Keep in mind these will cost extra.
Mayan Ruins Trail & Botanical Gardens
This area is perfect for taking a walk and learning about the rich history of ancient Mayan culture. Even though these ruins are replicas, there is still much to learn and admire. While walking through this area, make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to watch history come to life as the natives perform cultural dances in authentic dress. The Botanical Gardens are filled with beautiful flowing plants and lush greenery, and you will also find large iguanas there. Additionally, there is a playground that’s perfect for young children.
Dolphin, Manatee, and Sea Lions
Swimming with marine life is a popular activity in Chankanaab. They offer various options for those interested in interacting with sea creatures, including kissing, swimming, and touching. If you want to swim with a manatee, the cost is $52 per person. To swim with dolphins, it will cost $75 per person. Children between the ages of 1 to 5 years can experience this for free with the purchase of an adult ticket. In addition, you can watch the dolphins play in the water for free, and the pool is located in this area.
Booking and Pricing Information
General admission to the venue includes access to bathrooms, showers, beach chairs, hammocks, life vests, underwater statues, swimming areas, Mayan ruins, botanical gardens, tequila experience, and the kids’ playground. The cost of the general admission is $26 for adults, $19 for children aged 4-12, and kids aged 3 and under can enter for free. If you opt for the all-inclusive food and drink option, it will cost you $39 for adults and $36 for kids. Additionally, you will need to budget for a short 10-minute taxi ride to get there.
You can book this as an all-inclusive through your cruise line, they have this excursion listed in a few different ways, ones that will include the Dolphin/ Manatee swim and ones that have all the food and drink included along with one listed as just a beach day. Anywhere from $50 to $200 per person.
Playa Mia
Playa Mia Beach and Waterpark is an ideal destination for families with children as there are plenty of activities suitable for all ages. You can enjoy the waterpark’s attractions, unwind on the white sandy beach by the ocean, let your little ones explore Buccaneer’s Bay, or rent a water toy for some extra fun. And don’t forget to purchase the all-inclusive food and drink package to make the most of your visit.
When booking Playa Mia, there are three options for the perfect beach day – Playa Mia Beach Break, all-you-can-eat Beach Break, and Amazing Beach Break.
Playa Mia Beach Break
The Playa Mia beach break includes a floating water park, water slides, Buccaneer’s Bay kids pool, kayaks, water tricycles, underwater Mayan city, beach lounge chairs, showers, and changing rooms. This will cost you $41.20 for adults and $20.60 for children 4 to 11 years of age. Kids 3 and under are free.
All-You-Can-Eat Beach Break
The all-you-can-eat Beach break includes all of the same amenities as the break listed above with the addition of the all-you-can-eat buffet and domestic open bar. Coming in at the cost of $ 77.25 USD for adults and $ 39.14 USD for children 4 to 11 years of age, kids 3 and under are free.
The Amazing Beach Break
The Amazing Beach break, which includes everything from the last two experiences with the addition of, Hobie cats, lockers, towels clear Kayaks, and beach umbrellas. The price for this experience is $98.42 USD for adults and $49.44 USD for children 4 to 11 years of age. Kids under 3 are free.
Transportation
You can find Playa Mia on most cruise lines’ list of excursions. They offer transportation to and from Playa Mia, as well as all three of their activity options. However, if you prefer to compare pricing and make your own arrangements, Playa Mia provides easy transportation to and from the cruise port. You can access their services at three locations: Meeting Point A, located at the Puerta Maya Pier, Meeting Point B, located at the SSA International Pier, and Meeting Point C, located at the Punta Langosta Pier. At each of these locations, you will find a Playa Mia Retail Booth.
Mr. Sanchos Beach Club
Mr. Sancho’s is a highly sought-after destination when visiting Cozumel. There’s nothing quite like spending a day at the beach with your kids, enjoying endless amounts of food and drinks, miles of pristine white sand, and crystal-clear blue waters. Don’t forget to bring your sandpail and have a great time!
What’s Included
With the price of admission, you will get to enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet from Delicious Mexican cuisine to burgers and fries. As for drinks, you can enjoy a variety of drinks. You will have access to beach loungers, pools, kayaks, beach umbrellas at your table, lockers, and restrooms.
What's Not Included
Not Included with general admission are towels, the aquatic park, snorkel equipment, coffee shop products, liquor shots, and transportation. These are all available at an extra cost.
Cost and Transportation
Mr. Sancho’s All-Inclusive Day pass is $68 for adults, $45 for teens 12-17, $40 for kids 4-11 and kids 3 and under are free. if you would like to add the Aquatic Park to your pass, it is $14 per person. Mr. Sancho’s is 15 minutes from the cruise port, you will be able to catch a taxi to a form at your convenience. Your cruise line May have this as an available excursion which will include transportation.
Final Thoughts
There are so many things to do in Cozumel that you and your family will want to visit again and again. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, want to learn about Mayan culture by visiting ruins, prefer to snorkel without getting into the water, or would rather explore the island’s flora and fauna, there’s something for everyone. We hope that you and your family will love Cozumel as much as we do and that you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.
