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.

Jet Ski Cozumel. Cozumel Tours You Can Trust

Is Cozumel safe for tourists to visit, or does it just seem like a safe place? What are the travel advisories for American tourists? These are all questions I will answer in an easy-to-read format, along with others you probably haven’t even considered.

Is Cozumel Mexico safe? Yes. As of 2025, Cozumel remains one of the safest destinations in Mexico, with a violent crime rate significantly lower than popular mainland spots like Cancun or Tulum. But “safe” doesn’t mean “risk-free.”

It wasn’t too long ago that I had the same questions back in 2018 when my fiancée and I booked our first 7-day all-inclusive vacation to Cozumel, Mexico. It was just two months ago I took a cruise back to Cozumel, making it my 17th visit to the island.

Many of the locals wave and honk at me throughout the day because I’ve spent so much time here. I take personal pride in sharing my full Cozumel experiences in a genuine and raw way so you have a complete understanding of how safe Cozumel is for you and your family.

view parasailing in Cozumel prices and availability

 

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My Note To Travelers

All photos are taken by me and content is from my personal experience not generic stuff written by A.I. My goal is to help Cozumel tourists with real info and tips from my hard lessons (and near death experience) to ensure that when you visit it’s the best experience possible. Now let’s talk Cozumel safety!

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Cozumel Safety Overview

Cozumel is safe for tourists and has maintained its status as one of Mexico’s safest destinations for decades. The way the island is isolated from the rest of the mainland is a game changer.

 

When you combine that with an economy that is 100% dependent on tourism, it makes our safety as foreign travelers even more important to police and local authorities. We are their biggest resource.

However you get here, arriving by plane or cruise ship you can arrive with a peace of mind knowing that it is safe to get off the cruise ship in Cozumel unlike other countries. Cozumel is widely considered to be one of the safest ports of call in the Caribbean.

 

Cozumels Cruise Ports

Punta Langosta, International Pier, and Puerta Maya are all heavily trafficked and secure areas more than any place on the island.

Unlike many other ports, it is safe to walk directly off your ship. Exploring the downtown area, which extends safely for roughly four blocks from the waterfront. Cozumel taxi rates in 2026 are affordable and if you read the blog you can save 50% on a ride.

Your biggest danger in any of these (port) areas is your pocketbook by spending more money than you planned. I mean buying the same old repetitive souvenirs and regretting it later.

There is zero danger in these places so go out and explore but I recommend against booking activities with people like these. Instead try these inexpensive and free things to do in cozumel. They are selling the most heavily marked up tours and activities on the island, aside from the cruise lines own tour options.

There are a few things you should be careful about that I cover in this dedicated article about what not to do in Cozumel.

Let’s take a closer look at the safety myths and realities of safety in Cozumel, Mexico. The but short answer, Cozumel is safe to travel to as we enter the start of 2026 nothing has changed in regards to safety.

 

Cozumels Crime Rates & Stats

Let me help you shed any remaining fears with objective, no-bias data. The island’s commitment to safety is reflected in its Safety Index rating, which is consistently reported as High by Numbeo, a respected global crime stat tracking site. 

For example, on November 15th, 2023, the Cozumel Crime Index was 34.54; as of today (December 13, 2025), it has dropped to 34.22. So, yes, Cozumel is safe for tourists right now. 

You see different types of police presence that at first might make you a little concerned, but you quickly realize it’s what makes everyone actually feel safe.

Diving deeper into the stats for 2025, only 7 homicides were reported in Cozumel’s municipality, mostly isolated acts of violence far removed from the frequented tourist spots on the island. These things happen with the locations. That’s a drop of 14 in less than 2 years! The rate of other violent crimes echoes this trend – notably low.

Common Crimes

Since my original writing of this article back in 2023 the common crimes haven’t changed. I did myself experience having my stuff stolen while in one of the shopping areas near the beach, but overall theft has reduced along with the overall crime. Here are some of the most common petty crimes.

• Theft from parked cars: 

• Credit Card Scams: This is one not many people know about. Vendors are able to change the peso – USD conversion rate and set it at whatever they choose. Ask “What is your conversion rate?” before using your card.

• Purse Snatching: Young youth here still purse snatch just as they do in other countries. Carry the minimum when walking about.

• Theft: Theft can happen in any part of the world and keep your valuables in a safe place.

Yes, you should exercise caution when traveling abroad but nothing more than any other place. I walked every night and seen women along other Americans walking alone during the night.

With a comfortably low violent crime rate in cozumel, (significantly lower than many other (popular vacation destinations), and a strong police presence, it sets a gold standard for security

 

 

 Read: Best Public Beaches In Cozumel

 

Cozumel Travel Advisory: Is It Safe for Americans

Yes, there is currently an active Level 2 Travel advisory for Mexico. It was issued on August 12, 2025 which includes Cozumel San Miguel. Should you cancel your plans or what does this mean for American tourists? I’ll explain:

The U.S. The State Department publishes these official advisors to inform Americans on potential travel dangers when leaving the country. There was one issue when I came for the first time. Don’t let this scare you, keep reading to understand why Cozumel is safe for American tourists to visit in spite of the advisory.

The “Level 2” designation is the same level currently applied to many popular and safe European destinations like France, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. It simply signals that you should use the same level of common-sense vigilance you would in any major international city. 

The advisory is specifically for the Mexican state of Quintana Roo not Cozumel. It’s important to know the difference. Now I will explain what the advisory level really means.

The U.S. State Department uses a four-level risk system. Level 2 is not a “Do Not Travel” warning; it’s actually a common international standard that advises visitors to exercise increased caution but that should be done anytime you visit a foreign country. Wouldn’t you agree?

What it does NOT mean: It does not mean Cozumel is life-threatening or dangerous.

What it means: Be careful, cautious and follow these simple tips when traveling:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep an eye on your belongings
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash
• Be careful to accept drinks from strangers
• Be aware of potential scams

All of these things you would tell someone you care about to do on a night out in America. Cozumel is a very calm and relaxing island. I previously had other things on this list to keep people safe but as the years have gone on I decided to remove some things. Just know it’s a great place to visit and even buy a condo.

As an American tourist myself I can honestly say Cozumel is very safe for Americans and any other foreigner to visit and walk around safely any time of day. If you just stay on the cruise ship or in the resort you’re missing out. The cool bars come alive at night and during the day activities like parasailing are a quick and safe way to get some u forgettable memories under your belt. 

Cozumel is a tourist island and American tourists make up the largest chunk of visitors. Everywhere you look you will see an American traveler. You will also see any of these four types of police presence:

• Local Policia
• Marina Police
• Federal Police 
• National Guard

They are constantly driving around showing us we can relax, walk and shop peacefully. Their biggest source of revenue is tourism making us Americans their most valuable commodity whether we like it or not. The island’s economy runs on money we bring for tours, food, hotels and lodging.

If you’re staying at an all inclusive resort you will get the chance to get to know the resort workers personally and learn they make just $2/day working there so the jobs that allow them to meet American tourists are highly coveted because they pay so well(tips).

Lastly, when you see how the native community lives you will feel safer instantly. For this reason I encourage you if you’re staying for more than a 8- hour port call to rent a vehicle and REALLY explore the island. It’s really a calm, relaxed environment. Fathers dropping their daughters off to school. Families piling onto a scooter to grab a late night bite to eat. 

Speaking of food, I tried over 36 restaurants both in the main Centro area and .5 miles away from the ferry where the owners were a wife and husband who turned their garage into a dining area. This was my #2 favorite place but the food is unmatchable to what you typically see near the ferry.

The photo above is from there. I forgot the owners name but they were the sweetest couple and the most flavor packed authentic tacos. As you can see the locals are the frequent customers. If you’re looking for an authentic experience you have to get my Cozumel Food Guide. With my favorite top 8 local hidden gems.

 

Is It Safe To Drink The Water In Cozumel

No, you should not drink the water directly from the tap in Cozumel. While the island’s water supply is treated, contamination can occur in the distribution pipes or in the holding tanks of individual buildings. Not even the locals drink the water from the faucets. 

Hotels and established restaurants use purified water to make ice, and it is safe to use tap water for showering and general washing, but use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

For this reason, the safest practice is to always drink bottled water or purified water, which is widely available and used by everyone. If you want to learn more about the legal drinking age in Cozumel or of your curious about eating and drinking in Cozumel the article covers that too.

 

What not to do in Cozumel

For a safe and enjoyable trip, here are a few key things to avoid in Cozumel, based on common tourist concerns:

• Don’t Use Credit/Debit Cards – Conversion rates are hidden in the sale and are often higher than normal. Use cash if possible.
• Don’t Drink the Tap Water – Stick to bottled or purified water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
• Don’t Touch Marine Life – Avoid touching the coral or other marine life while snorkeling or diving.
• Don’t Flash Valuables – Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics to prevent opportunistic theft.
• Don’t Rent Mopeds – if Inexperienced Opt for taxis or reputable transportation, as mopeds can be risky.
• Don’t Buy from Questionable Street Vendors Be cautious when buying goods from street vendors.
• Don’t Engage in Illegal Activities – Avoid any involvement with illegal substances.

For a complete guide to avoiding tourist traps and common mistakes, be sure to read our full article: 11 Things To Avoid In Cozumel

 

Is Cozumel safer Than Cancun

Yes, Cozumel is widely considered a safer destination for tourists than Cancun. Cozumel is a smaller island community that relies heavily on tourism, leading to a much lower overall crime rate, especially violent crime.

Cozumel has more of a relaxed, dive focused and family-oriented environment. Cancun has a bigger party scene that can lead to routier behavior and more incidents. So it depends on what kind of trip your going for. Playa del Carmen has a great night scene id that’s your thing.

 

Is It Safe To Eat In Cozumel?

Yes, eating local cuisine and drinking prepared drinks (including cocktails) is safe in Cozumel. When it comes to eating and drinking in Cozumel, the island has a plethora of options ranging from high-end restaurants to local street food and of course a seemingly unlimited supply of tequila.

They store and prepare food largely differently than in developed countries such as the US. The hygiene standards are above average but not stellar if you ask me. I still highly recommend you drink bottled or purified water.

Be careful not to indulge heavily in things you don’t already typically eat at home. Eating too much fresh fruit or things your not used to can give you the runs. To Avoid getting sick make sure to wash your hands often, and be mindful of what you eat and drink.

 

Eggs sit on shelves at room temperature and are completely healthy to eat. Fun Fact

 

Is it safe at night?

Cozumel is not just safe during the day, you can feel safe at night also. The place where you will feel safest is in or near Centro. Street food vendors setup. Families setup tents to sell souvenirs.

The bars around the Cozumel Centro start to come alive with karaoke. Around this time the cruise ships will have left. Just read this persons comment on Reddit 

Night time is a better experience because the main brick and mortar shops close up. They are the more “pesty” sales people always pulling you into their shops. During this time you can just enjoy your stroll.

You will see Americans who live here a couple months a year or people like staying in a airbnb just casually exploring. What’s surprising is seeing entire families piled onto a scooter to get a bite to eat at their favorite food spot. 

If street food is what you seek this will be your treasure trove. Prices are cheap and food uniqueness is high! Below I ordered a fried egg that would be stuffed with Nutella. I can’t remember the formal name but you will taste some insanely unique food combinations that are well deserved when on vacation.

There isn’t a lot to choose from because the island’s locals are fairly “ sleepy”. Even cozumels dry weather in December can’t make this island party crazy. They aren’t big on parties, or drinking. Therefore there aren’t bad people to worry about preying on intoxicated tourists.

There nothing whole to worry about here it is just as safe to walk around Cozumel during the night as it is during the day. More peaceful and authentic to! 

 

Safest Time to Visit Cozumel

The safest time to visit Cozumel is during the dry season. This is the best time to visit Cozumel mexico. So we covered crime, now you want to know if Cozumel Mexico safe from natural disasters. Yes, the weather is traditionally safe in Cozumel. The only natural disaster that applies to Cozumel is a hurricane. The last hurricane to hit Cozumel was Hurricane Wilma in 2005.

It was the most intense tropical cyclone ever recorded in the Atlantic basin according to highly trusted Wikipedia. The local authorities are well-prepared to handle these situations that come up with early detection, and procedures for evacuating visitors from the island. 

Honestly, when I booked my first trip to Cozumel in 2019, my 1st concern (after I booked my ticket) was “Uh-oh, when is Cozumel’s Hurricane Season?” So I frantically searched Google and found out Cozumel’s Hurricane Season is from June to October. The National Weather Service has published a comprehensive list to prepare for a hurricane. A good resource for tracking weather is Accuweather.

 The last one to hit the island was in 2005, yes 18 years ago! So don’t worry the chances are very low you will be greeting a hurricane anytime soon.

 

Is It Safe to Walk Around Cozumel?

Yes, walking around Cozumel is very safe, especially in the tourist-frequented areas located on the West side of the island. Numbeo rates walking in Cozumel as 90% during the day and 68% at night. This sate was updated the 14th of August 2025.

Here’s my opinion. During my stay, I spent my every morning and evening walking when I wasn’t riding the scooter hehe. Early before the solicitors/salespeople are out and late in the day long after they are packed up for the night.

 

It was comfortable, with no presence of gangs, cartels, or sketchy people. At night, you’ll see couples giggling, holding hands walking down the street, or groups of locals standing outside a local drinking spot. Your biggest worry while walking is getting sunburnt. This includes the area near the Ferry, Cruise Port, Resorts, and Cozumel’s Downtown area. 

Local Safety Measures

One of the key safety measures in place by Cozumels local authorities is no drinking in public. In order to keep travelers safe and in check the police do not allow open intoxicants out on the street.

For Example: you can’t get a drink at a local bar and walk down the street with it legally.S

Best Way To Get Around Cozumel

The safest and most recommended transportation option for tourists in Cozumel is licensed taxis or private shuttle service. Taxies are the safest way to get around. Key Recommendation: Taxis are regulated, convenient, and the safest choice for short trips and transfers from the airport or cruise port. 

Alternative Safe Option: Renting a car or Jeep provides the protection of a four-wheeled vehicle and is ideal for exploring the less-traveled areas of the island. Consider it as a way to get around.

Taxis are easy to hail, reasonably priced, and convenient. There are many ways to traverse the island, with many taxi drivers, my personal favorite being the Scooter Rental, but that isn’t for everyone. When taking an official taxi agree on the fare before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. Pesos or US Dollars are acceptable.

 

Is Cozumel Safe From The Cartel

Yes. The presence of drug cartels in Cozumel is practically nonexistent. There is no Cozumel Cartel, nor has there ever been any proof of it. Unlike the rest of Mexico, the island shows no presence of the common activities associated with the Cartels such as (drugs, and human trafficking.)

There is very little if any known illegal Cartel activity in Cozumel. You don’t hear about it on the news with phrases such as “Cozumel Cartel”, or from people who have traveled which is a good thing. So is there a cartel in Cozumel? No, there is no evidence of it

Dangerous Animals in Cozumel

While Cozumel has its share of wildlife, dangerous encounters are rare. Read our are there dangerous animals in Cozumel article. If any, the ocean is the home of the most dangerous unknown wildlife… jellyfish! Respect the wildlife, give them space and you will have a wonderful time safely exploring the island above and below the water.

Swimming Safety Tips:

Five years ago I almost died Swimming in Cozumel on the shore of the all inclusive Secrets Aurora with my fiance. Please, please read the story and learn about best beach for snorkeling in Cozumel and the dangers that come with them. Cozumel is generally safe for adults and kids to swim any time of year.

It’s also the primary reason for many seeking the incredible underwater views. Pay attention to weather conditions and heed any warnings from flags put up by local authorities. The flags will give you indications of the conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. 

Here is a little video to show you just how fast ocean fun can turn dangerous even in a beautiful place like Cozumel.

 

More Cozumel Safety Tips

For your Cozumel Excursions and activities make sure to research first: If you’re planning to indulge in activities when you visit like the best Cozumel parasailing excursion, or super fun, guided ATV tours, always opt for reputable and certified operators.

If you are planning a trip to Cozumel, it is a good idea to register with the U.S. State “STEP” Program. How to enroll in the Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This will allow the U.S. government to contact you in the event of an emergency.

Check online reviews and ask for recommendations to ensure they demonstrate normal precautions and guidelines and have the necessary safety equipment Make sure you arrive on time because the cozumel zone can be a little confusing. Exercise increased caution when booking with small companies with less than 10 reviews. Looking into travel insurance isn’t a bad idea

Watch Your Belongings at the Beach

Cozumel’s beaches are stunning, but they can also get crowded You don’t have to worry much about petty crime here. Still, keep a close eye on your belongings, or even better, bring only essentials and leave valuables locked up at your accommodation. Truth is cozumel is safe, but you are more likely to have your belongings stolen by another vacationer before a local. Why, it’s simple the workers have more to lose.

Learn Basic Spanish Phrases

While many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in keeping you just slightly safer. After all, knowing exactly what the locals are saying will definitely increase your situational awareness. 

Imagine, a local gives you directions to the local restaurant and you interpret them wrong and now your driving around on a scooter for an additional 30 minutes trying to read street signs, determine where you are, and make wrong turns down a one-way. This could easily make your time less safe unknowingly.

It also shows respect for the local culture and can be incredibly helpful in situations where English isn’t as commonly spoken. They can tell when you are making an effort and that appreciate it. I used Babbel.com to learn Spanish. I no pro, but I can definitely get around the Spanish culture more comfortably.

Respect Local Customs and Laws

Every place has its own set of rules and customs, and Cozumel is no different. So for a safe and enjoyable experience, be respectful of the Mexican island. Respect the local traditions, and adhere to laws, and you’ll find the locals are more than willing to help and welcome you. Not, if you are rude, driving down one way in the wrong direction.

Doing these two things and visiting cozumel will be an awesome experience. So of you feel safe and have your questions answered head to our activity page to book your Cozumel parasailing adventure!

 

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Cozumel, Mexico a safer than you previously thought, and I will give you my top 5 reasons why. Research, Plan, book with Jet Ski Cozumel. See you soon!