What NOT To Do In Cozumel, Mexico

I have vacationed in Cozumel 17 times and now live here 3 months a year.  First I stayed at Secrets Aurora Cozumel, then Airbnb’s and finally a cruise (below). My tips on what not to do in Cozumel are simple no bs advice that a first time visitor or frequent traveler can use to make your Cozumel trip even better!

As an American tourist and now part-time local I have a much different perspective of recommendations for things to avoid as an American tourists. Get familiar before you arrive by discovering the common mistakes travelers make.

 

* DISCLAIMER *

My recommendations for things to avoid are NOT echoing the same old things you see in other blogs. Please, consider what is best for you and your party because there is no one size fits all. So take what information applies to you and discard the rest.

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Don’t Buy Anything

*Golden Rule*

I’m serious, don’t buying anything for 45 minutes! The second you get here, local people will be shoving junk trinkets, overpriced drinks and low quality tours in your face. Most of these places are tourist traps. This will happen 3-4 times before you make it 1/4 mile.

Its how they make a living, but that doesn’t mean you have to be the sucker paying $17 for a $3 margarita at the airport. I made this mistake my 1st time arriving. I was excited to get the party started and decided to buy a drink waiting for the shuttle bus to fill so we could leave. Five minutes after drinking it I felt taken advantage of.

If you see something you want, WAIT. I promise it will be there when you come back. Likely, two shops down the street you will get offered it again! This lets you compare your options and prevents you feeling like you got taken advantage of. The photo below shows you where the pier stops and the locals sales pressure starts.

After this point shop, sales people working on commissions will offer you all kinds of fake stuff. Punta Lagosta is the worst but every major point of entry is the same. Just kindly say ” no thank you” if you reply in Spanish they use that as an opportunity to stop you and talk more.

There is nothing that will save you more money, hassle or headaches than kindly telling local street sellers no. If you prefer saving money, you will love my tips on free things to do in Cozumel. Yes, shopping in cozumel is safe, but if you do nothing but remember this golden rule you will love it here.

 Things to Avoid Buying In Cozumel

• Steroids
• Tequila(cheap)
• Cuban cigars(fake)
• Fake Luxury bags

These are the most common counterfeit souvenirs sold to tourists and 95% are fake. The “free tequila tours, are a setup. The tequila is low-end stuff you can get cheaper at a store (I cover that in the free things blog). The Cuban cigars, well those things couldn’t possibly be real for the price they are selling them.

 

Wait… Did you know we offer

 

Don’t be fooled. These are usually complete knock-offs and couldn’t be further from authentic, so don’t get caught in these tourist trap offers. If your really in the mood, be sure you negotiate them down, don’t just pay the price they ask.

 

11 Common Tourist Mistakes

Don’t Drink The Tap Water

⚠️ IMPORTANT ⚠️

The tap water in Cozumel is simply not safe for drinking. Do not drink the tap water anywhere in cozumel. Always use bottled water or purified water sources. It is safe to brush your teeth with it just don’t swallow the water.

The water is so unsafe even locals use bottled water. Cozumels water contains harmful bacteria and parasites that can make you sick. Even if you’re lucky enough not to get sick, it’s simply not worth risking it.

Drink ONLY bottled water and read Cozumel foods that can make you sick so you know what to avoid. It’s not that expensive and you can find it at most supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants.

 

Don’t Buy Fake Tours

 

Cozumel is safe but as Americans locals think we are made of money. There are shady people AND companies. Street sellers, outright frauds will promise a amazing tour, collect and hand you off to a partner.

When you arrive the staff ask you to pay $20-$70 more and because you paid the first guy you met your money is gone! Beware of all solicitors and tour peddlers. There are tons of them.

Amazing vacations don’t just happen they come from research and planning like your doing now.

Book your tours through reputable companies and always verify the cancellation policy. At Jet Ski Cozumel we only require a 20% Deposit to reserve a time slot for any of our tours. You can cancel for any reason for a FULL refund. Top reasons we give refunds:

• Hungover
• Ship itinerary changes
• Bad weather
• Last minute plan change

Whatever the reason, with Jet Ski Cozumel you get peace of mind knowing you will get your money back without fees or delay. Good companies understand things happen and work with you.

 

 

Even Viator requires 24-hour notice or they keep your money. On top of that they markup tour 20-30%. Check yourself, google “Parasailing Cozumel” and compare prices.

Key takeaway: Avoid street sellers and last-minute bookings. Do your research and trust your gut. You are already leaps ahead of other tourists just by doing this research.

 

 

Don’t Forget To Bring Cash

I recommend you go to your bank and get $200 in singles. This isn’t only for Cozumel but your entire vacation. You can use it to pay for small souvenirs, tipping, taxi rides and lots of other little things your not thinking of right now.

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere (except in taxis)in Cozumel but sometimes vendors raise the conversion rate to make your US dollar less valuable and bundle it in with your total. When you read the receipt it all looks confusing because you don’t know the peso conversion off the top of your head.

 

Don’t Assume Taxis Are Everywhere

Taxis are the best way to get around in Cozumel, but they are not everywhere. The blog has tips that can save you BIG money. Major tourist areas, all-inclusive resorts, cruise ports and most popular Cozumel beach clubs have taxis on standby. Outside of them taxis will require a little more effort. Cozumel now has taxi app you can use which I cover in the blog above.

Resorts and Airbnb Villas have a door man that will call a cab for you, but if you’re staying at a smaller place you will need your own car, jeep or scooter. If your staying far from town consider the fact its usually $10 minimum to get anywhere for two people which means bills add up quickly, so plan accordingly.

Pro Tip: These taxis are only for locals, tourists are NOT allowed to use this service. Tourists are only allowed to use the licensed state taxis to get around. you cannot use the small three wheel ones no matter how fun they look, sorry!

 

International Travel Plan

I made this mistake in the Dominican Republic. Call your cell phone company and ask them “I’m leaving the country I need to start my travel plan”. Most major cell phone carriers have a plan that costs $10-$12/day. Thia lets you enjoy your trip without worrying about WiFi which is iffy at beach clubs.

You can preset the days your leaving months in advance so it starts when you leave and end the day after you get back. I knew better but forgot and 5 days in Punta Cana costs me over $640 in internation cellular rates!

 

Don’t Underestimate The Sun

Common mistake

The sun can dehydrate you quickly especially when combined with the Mojitos, Margaritas and shots of Tequila. Tourist always drink a lot because of the  legal drinking age in cozumel. Headaches, nausea and cramps come on faster than you expect, so be sure to drink more water than you normally do.

 

We all think we can’t get burnt. Well, at least some of us do. So I didn’t put on any sunblock. Sure enough on day two everything was soar and burnt. I spent 3 days avoiding the sun after that. Learn from my mistake and put on at least SPF 50 sunscreen now everytime and this is what I use.

It’s great for him & her and doesn’t leave a oily residue. Personally as a man I didn’t mind it the smell of it at all. Order Sun Bum Reef friendly Sunblock here or pick it up at Target and be ready for vacation. Fellas if your reading this she will be happy you chose such a good one!

If you forget to bring the sunblock you can expect to pay around $31 for a 6 oz bottle of cheap stinky stuff. If you order these from amazing you get two travel size bottles.

 

Don’t Stay in The Tourist Zone

If you stay in the major port, your all-inclusive resort or popular tourists zones your missing out on tons of culture. I know many of you are wondering is Cozumel safe right now but there are fewer places in your cruise itinerary that are safer.

Away from the port you will find the best tasting local food for pennies! This photo above (sorry you can’t really see the tacos) is proof my advice is genuine. I got 3 BIG tacos for $2! I paid in pesos which always helps. The savings and flavors beyond the main areas are so worth it!

 

Don’t Skip Renting a scooter

If you choose to skip renting a scooter and exploring cozumel your missing out. This is where I disagree with other travel blogs. Scooters in Cozumel are safe, but they are not for everyone so keep reading but before you do watch the 60 second video showing what’s it’s like in Cozumel at night time. You be the judge if you should rent a scooter.

 

It costs $25/day to rent a scooter which is what you will spend on a single taxi trip for two people. Contrary to popular advice, scooter rentals in very popular in Cozumel. No, they aren’t for everyone but you can see from photos below it’s not as dangerous are many make it seem. Learn you can get a 15% Discount off any rental in my visiting Cozumel on a budget article.

Scooters are cheap, fun, simple to operate and parking is easy. You can find a place to rent them just as easy as finding a taxi, but if you want to explore the island they are a far cheaper and in my opinion scooter are the most ideal way to get around island.

With a scooter you have the freedom to go anywhere at your own pace. It’s ideal for exploring public beaches in cozumel. It makes Chen Rio and Coconuts Bar & Grill within your finger tips.

Scooters are 50% of the traffic on cozumels streets. It’s the primary method of travel for locals for sure, and I always see tourists riding around on them. I’ve seen some crazy things like an entire family on a scooter (4 people) like you see below.

 

Who Should Not Rent a Scooter?

Avoid renting a scooter in Cozumel if your not experienced and confident. You need to be able to adapt to the pace of the island which isn’t very fast but during busy times of you questions your abilities it can be dangerous. If you want to learn more read a completely guide renting scooters in Cozumel. If you’re not used to driving in unfamiliar territory, riding on 2 wheels, and don’t have the confidence.

Add to that the fact that cozumel has a high number of road accidents (many of which involve tourists – especially intoxicated ones – on scooters), and it’s best to leave the driving to the pros. Consider hiring a driver or taking a taxi to get to us for your exciting parasailing adventure instead. Save the scootering for when you’re back home.

 

Only people with the confidence and skills should rent scooters
Disclaimer

 

Avoid Drinking in Public

Cozumel isn’t like Vegas you CANNOT drink alcohol in public. It’s illegal. Drinking is fully expected especially from 18 year olds but no walking down  the street with a beer. No open containers. Keep it under controle and at establishments.

 

Do Not Leave Your Valuables Out

Petty theft is the most common crime in cozumel. It happens the most near Beach clubs when travelers are swimming and drinking at both all inclusive resorts and public beach clubs. It isn’t always the locals, it can be anyone who wants what you have and thinks you will blame a worker. Avoid the headache all together and always keep an eye on your stuff.

• Take turns watching the valuables
• Use a towel to cover the important things
• Use Lockers at beach clubs
• Only take card & cash you NEED

 

Do Not Touch The Wildlife

This is a big No-No, and we often have to remind customers who book our all-inclusive Cozumel snorkeling tour not to touch the star fish and manta rays. Our guided snorkel tours stop at 3 coral reefs and El Cielo beach where the water so clear its unbelievable, but you should always resist the urge.

While it’s tempting when your up close and personal with these creatures, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated with respect. There are such things as dangerous animals in cozumel.  Making mistakes like our customer below is a perfect example of what not to do in Cozumel mexico.

Touching or disturbing the wildlife can cause them stress and harm, especially if you’re dealing with sea creatures like coral and starfish, which are incredibly fragile. Remember – this is their home, and you’re just a guest. If you do want to swim with sea turtles or rays, choose a responsible tour operator who follows ethical guidelines.

 

Can I use American dollars in Cozumel

Yes, you can use your American money in cozumel. US dollars are preferred by locals especially in tourist areas, but using Mexican pesos often gets you better prices and avoids unfavorable exchange rates or getting change in pesos. Here is a simple visual to summarize it.

For larger purchases or more authentic experiences, pesos are best, but dollars (small bills) work for taxis, tips, and tourist shops, while credit cards offer protection but may have fees.

Using USD in Cozumel:

Accepted Everywhere (Tourist Areas): Hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and major grocery stores (Mega, Chedraui).

 

Don’t Use Money Exchanges

Tourists should avoid using money exchanges in Cozumel to swap your USD to pesos. America currency is widely accepted and if you need more cash ATM’s are all over. The money exchanges offer the worst conversion rates possible. Cozumel has two major banks downtown, Scotia Bank and Banco where you can access a atm 24 hours a day  or at Mega Grocery store.

If you find yourself needing cash at the atm you will be asked to accept or decline the ATM’s exchange rate (see photo below). Always DECLINE ATM conversion rate, this will give you the best conversion which defaults to the countries standard which will be about 7% better for you.

The photo below is one I took at the Mega supermarket  which is located on the Av Rafael Melgar (the main front road) about 1/2 mile from the Cozumel international cruise port. When you use it or any other ATM you will be asked if you want to accept the conversion rate. Always DECLINE it and you will get the countries national rate.

 

Don’t Skip Learning Basic  Spanish

Most of the locals speak English and they speak it well, but not everyone does. You will ALWAYS have questions and these basic phrases will help you get them answered faster and will a smile. I promise you will feel more confident when you understand at least some basic phrases. Imagine if you could order a drink in spanish!

Also, you will find that everyone is more friendly when you show a effort to learning the basics. Here are a few that really helped me out.

Basic Spanish phrases for tourists

• Pu-e-do tenner – Can I have?
• Teines – Do you have?
• Donde El banjo – Where is the restroom?
• Buenos dias – Goodmorning!
• Por favor – Please
• Gracias señor – Thank you sir
• Que hora es – What time is it?
• Con Permiso – Excuse me

Everyone will know EXACTLY what you mean You will notice I skipped all the basic stuff like hi and bye because you will pick those up naturally! These are all I formal but very  Focus on these that will help you with the things that are important. You

 

Don’t Forget to Ask For Bill

Unlike in some countries, waiters in Cozumel won’t bring the bill to your table unless you ask for it. It’s not a matter of forgetfulness, but one of respect – servers want to make sure you’ve had time to savor your meal. So, if you’re ready to pay, catch the waiter’s attention and say, “la cuenta, por favor.” Don’t forget that tipping is also a crucial part of the service industry in Cozumel. As a general rule, it’s customary to tip between 10 to 20 percent of the total bill.

Taxi Overcharges

I already told you to skip the scooter – so taking a taxi is the next best option. However, you need to be aware of taxi overcharges. Click here to view Cozumel taxis rates. You won’t hear this very often, but Cozumel is infamous for drivers who take advantage of tourists and overcharge for rides.

To avoid this, read our blog on taxis and always confirm the price before getting into the taxi. You can also ask for a receipt to make sure you’re getting the proper fare.

 

Avoid Timeshare Tours

Here’s another tip you won’t hear very often – skip the timeshare. This is only for resort tourists not cruise passengers. Largely they end up being a waste of precious time for a free excursion. Time is money, avoid the headache. Cozumel is known for its many beautiful resorts, and while timeshares might seem like a good investment at first, they can lead to unexpected expenses and obligations in the future. Save yourself the trouble and avoid the timeshare presentations entirely.

 

What not to do in Cozumel at night

This should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway. Don’t buy drugs in Cozumel. To Avoid putting yourself and others at risk by saying no to drugs while you’re visiting Cozumel. If your curious, check out our crime in cozumel article.

 

Learn More About Cozumel, Mexico

Continue exploring value travel info about Cozumel with my helpful blogs. Check out these articles to plan your next trip:

• 100% Free things to do cozumel – Top no cost ways to explore Cozumel for travelers on a budget.
• Cozumel Tours: Head-to-Head Comparison – Cruise ship tours vs. Viator Who’s better?
• Best time to go to Cozumel – Discover best, worst and budget friendly times to hit Cozumel
• Cartel In Cozumel Mexico – Is cozumel safe from the drug cartel?
• Public beaches in cozumel – Find the 100% free beaches on the island.
• Cozumels Weather in February – A guide on what to expect during the peak travel season.

 

Don’t Swim On Red

The public beaches in Cozumel are absolutely beautiful, but they can also be dangerous. It’s important to pay attention to the beach warning flags and signage. If a red flag is out, it means that the water is too rough for swimming and can be dangerous.

The currents in the area can be strong, so it’s important to listen to the warnings and stay out of the water until it is safe to do so – yes, even if you consider yourself an excellent swimmer!

 

Are There Any Places to Avoid in Cozumel?

One of the first places we would recommend avoiding is the neighborhood of San Miguel. Although it’s the island’s largest town and has plenty of shops and restaurants, it can also be overcrowded and too touristy. Instead, we suggest heading to the southern part of the island, where you’ll find more secluded beaches and a peaceful atmosphere.

Another area to avoid is the cruise ship terminal, especially when several ships are docking at the same time. It can get extremely crowded, and prices for food and souvenirs are often higher here. If you want to fully enjoy your time in Cozumel, consider exploring some of the lesser-known spots that offer breathtaking natural beauty and fewer crowds.

 

What should I be careful of in Cozumel?

Cozumel is considered one of Mexico’s safest tourist destinations, but you should still be careful of:

Tap Water: Be careful to only drink bottled or purified water (avoid tap water).

Petty Theft: Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and bags, especially in crowded tourist areas like the port and downtown.

Money: Bring cash, use ATMs like those inside banks or stores and skip money exchanges.

Tours and Goods: Don’t book tours on the street. Don’t buy counterfeit cigars.

Reckless Behavior: Drink responsibly and take safe travel like taxi cabs or shuttles.

If you have specific concerns and want to be fully prepared, read our article explaining the cozumel travel advisory. If will clarify any worries you might have.

All in all, Cozumel is an excellent destination for those seeking a tropical getaway that offers equal parts relaxation and adventure. Be aware of the top things to avoid in Cozumel – and get your bags packed for an epic vacation on this charming island paradise.