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Playa del Carmen to Cozumel
Are you considering a day trip from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel? As a Playa del Carmen-based travel blogger, I highly recommend this activity, especially for those hosting friends and family. This excursion is simple, scenic and offers breathtaking beaches, remarkable snorkeling, and enjoyable activities.
This blog post provides a guide on how to plan a day trip to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen. It includes information on transportation, recommended activities, and useful tips for your visit.
Cozumel is a small island situated only 18 km east of Playa del Carmen, Mexico. It takes only around 50 minutes to reach the island by ferry from Playa del Carmen. Cozumel is renowned for its scenic beaches and stunning reefs suitable for activities like snorkelling and scuba diving.
The most common way to reach Cozumel when traveling alone is by taking the ferry from Playa del Carmen.
The ferry terminal in Cozumel is situated in downtown Playa del Carmen, near Avenida Juarez and 5th Avenue. It is easily accessible by walking or by taxi, depending on your location. Be cautious of unofficial vendors selling ferry tickets on the street when you arrive. Purchase your ferry tickets from the official counter just outside the terminal.
When you get to the ferry terminal, there are only two options to choose from: Ultramar and Winjet. Ultramar ferries are identified by their blue and yellow color, while Winjet ferries are orange. Despite the different colors, both ferry options to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen are spacious and comfortable, and offer food and drink selections.
Typically, the lower level of the ferry is air-conditioned while the upper deck provides outdoor seating. Additionally, select ferries have amenities such as a Starbucks and live music. In my experience, Ultramar ferries have been of better quality, but it’s best to check the departure signs to see which ferry is next. Both companies travel to the same destination and alternate schedules.
ULTRAMAR |
If in U.S.& Canada (011 + 52) 987 872-1588 E-Mail Website |
From Cozumel Island: 803-5581 From Playa Del Carmen: (998) 881-5890 |
WINJET |
If in U.S. & Canada (011 + 52) 987 872-1588 E-Mail Website |
From Cozumel Island: 872-1508 From Playa Del Carmen: (987) 8724988 |
You can check online and in advance both the Ultramar schedule and the Winjet schedule so you can properly plan your departure and return times.
The ferry schedule changes seasonally, but there is usually an hourly departure. The ride to Cozumel takes less than 45 minutes. Just make sure you know when the last ferry departure time, so you don’t miss it for Playa del Carmen.
COZUMEL FERRY SCHEDULE | |||
WINJET | |||
To Playa del Carmen | To Cozumel Island | To Playa del Carmen | To Cozumel Island |
On the Even Days of the Month (2, 4, 6, etc.) | On the Odd Days of the Month (1, 3, 5, etc.) | ||
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ULTRAMAR | |||
To Playa del Carmen | To Cozumel Island | To Playa del Carmen | To Cozumel Island |
Even Days (2, 4, 6, etc.) | Odd Days (1, 3, 5, etc.) | ||
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It takes around 40 minutes each way with the regular ferry or 20 minutes on the Ultramar’s brand new luxury ferry. The Ferries do run 365 days a year, of course weather permitting. IMPORTANT Prices and Schedules are of course Subject to Change Without any prior Notice. Make sure you check prior with the ferry company before traveling We do recommend to check with the ferry company the day before you’ll go on the ferry. | |||
The cost of a one-way ferry ticket for adults to Cozumel is $220 pesos (~$11 USD) on Winjet and $250 pesos (~$12 USD) on Ultramar. Credit cards, Mexican pesos or USD are acceepted as payment methods. It’s advisable to buy a one-way ticket because the ferry schedules for each company alternate. This will allow you to take the next available departing ferry instead of being restricted to a specific company on your return trip.
At Ultramar, you can upgrade to a first-class ticket that includes access to an exclusive upstairs lounge where you’ll receive food and beverage service. Additionally, both companies offer discounts for locals of Playa del Carmen and residents of Quintana Roo.
FERRY TICKET PRICES | ||
Pesos | USD* | |
ULTRAMAR Luxury, 20 Minutes | ||
For Adults | 200 | $10.25 |
For Kids | 130 | $6.75 |
WINJET Regular, 40 Minutes | ||
For Adults | 135 | $7.00 |
For Kids | 69 | $3.50 |
*Approximately Exchange Rate ~ 21:1 | ||
Although Cozumel’s downtown area can be easily accessed on foot, you will still require transportation methods to explore the island.
If you wish to visit less touristy areas and have the flexibility to travel on your own, renting a car or jeep is a good option. You can rent them in Cozumel and make a reservation online in advance or rent them directly at the ferry terminal.
Make sure to thoroughly check your vehicle for wear and tear before departing. If you want a stress-free experience, consider using my preferred rental service, Discover Cars by clicking here!
Taxis are a convenient and safe way to explore the island beyond the downtown area. You can easily find a taxi outside the ferry terminal (no uber in Playa del Carmen), where there is always a line available. Make sure to check the price list displayed at the taxi stand to know the cost of traveling to the most popular destinations on the island.
To avoid any confusion, it’s recommended to ask for the taxi fare before getting into the car. Taxis in Cozumel accept both pesos and USD, but they usually don’t accept credit cards, so make sure to carry enough cash with you. Additionally, bear in mind that taxi rates in Cozumel are higher than in Playa del Carmen, and you may need to pay around $15-$20 USD for a single trip.
It is likely that there will be taxis waiting outside the popular spot on Cozumel when you plan to return. This makes it easier for you to reach the ferry terminal.
Consider booking a private island tour in Cozumel for the ultimate convenience of having a personal driver who knows the island well. With a private tour, you can have your own guide who can take you to the most popular attractions.
You have the freedom to craft your own schedule, whether you prefer spending time at the beach, exploring Punta Sur Park, or discovering the less-developed eastern section of the island. You can also check out the best beaches in Playa del Carmen (beach camera)
If you only have one day for Cozumel, here are some suggestions for what to do. However, if you have more time, it is recommended to spend at least three days exploring all the fun activities and relaxation options available in Cozumel.
Whenever I visit Cozumel, I always prioritize a visit to a beach club. I’ve noticed that the beaches on the west side of the island usually don’t experience seaweed issues that other beaches in Riviera Maya may have. The following are popular beach clubs in Cozumel that are located a quick drive away from the ferry terminal and downtown area:
I recommend exploring the downtown area of San Miguel de Cozumel for leisurely activities while in Cozumel. This area is located opposite the Cozumel ferry terminal, so it’s only a short walk away from the terminal once you arrive on the island.
You can find a charming square in the downtown area that has street vendors and souvenir shops selling Mexican handicrafts. Additionally, there are benches available around the square where you can sit and relax or enjoy a treat from one of the food vendors. Additionally, the square is a great spot to explore some colorful graffiti.
Cozumel has the second longest coral reef system in the world, making it a popular destination for snorkeling. One of the most popular snorkeling tours in Cozumel is visiting El Cielo, a shallow spot abundant with starfish. The El Cielo tour includes three coral reefs, El Cielo, and the beautiful El Cielito beach.
After completing your Cozumel day trip from Playa del Carmen, simply return to the ferry terminal and take the ferry back using the same process in reverse. If you bought a one-way ticket, purchase a return ticket for the next available ferry and board it.
If you’re traveling from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen in the evening, you may have the chance to see the sunset over Playa del Carmen. This can make your trip even more memorable!
Playa del Carmen is about 11 miles (18 km) west of Cozumel.
To reach Cozumel, take the ferry from Playa del Carmen which usually takes around 45 minutes.
A round-trip ticket on the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel costs roughly $500 pesos (equivalent to roughly $25 USD).
Cozumel, Cancun and Playa del Carmen are relatively safe destinations, but it’s important to exercise caution and use common sense while exploring. While unpleasant incidents can happen anywhere, staying aware and avoiding risky situations can help ensure a safe trip. Check out my post on “safety in Mexico” for more information. Additionally, my post “Cancun vs Cozumel” can provide insight and tips into the similarities and differences between these destinations.
You don’t have to purchase Cozumel ferry tickets in advance. You can buy them at the pier before boarding. There are two companies that provide transportation to Cozumel, so you can choose the one departing when you arrive.
To explore the beaches and attractions outside of the main downtown area in Cozumel, you will need to take a taxi. However, if you stay within the downtown area, you can walk around.
It takes less around 40 minutes to travel by ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel Island.
Did the guide help you plan your day trip to Cozumel? There are lots of activities and things to do available on the island such as snorkeling, going to the beach, renting a jeep, or exploring the downtown area. No matter what you choose to do, you’ll have a wonderful time visiting Cozumel’s stunning island.
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