Cozumel – Cruisin’ the Caribbean Side & Tiki Time!
Ahhh, Cozumel… 🌴 There’s something magical about this island that calls you to explore, unwind, and discover the unexpected. On Day Three of our Margaritaville at Sea Islander cruise, we docked in Cozumel, Mexico, and instead of booking a traditional excursion, we decided to create our own kind of adventure.
Spoiler alert: best decision ever!
We stepped off the ship with the sun shining, the breeze blowing, and absolutely no plans—except one: rent a car and explore the Caribbean side of the island.
Cozumel is famous for its tourist shops and fun bars near the port, but the real magic is on the other side of the island.
Once we picked up our rental (which was easy, affordable, and right near the terminal), we hit the road. Driving in Cozumel is super chill—one main road wraps around the island, and the views are next-level. Turquoise waters, palm trees swaying, and stretches of untouched beach? Yes, please!
Loaded up, turned up some tunes (Jimmy Buffett, obviously), and headed toward the island’s east side, where the Caribbean Sea meets rugged coastlines and tiki bars are scattered like hidden gems waiting to be found.
First stop? Coconuts Bar & Grill is an absolute must-visit. Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, this place is pure island energy. Cold drinks, warm smiles, and the kind of views that make you want to stay all day. We ordered a couple of margaritas (yes, again… when in Mexico!) and shared some chips and guac while taking in the salty air and listening to the waves crash below.
The vibe at Coconuts was laid-back and full of laughter. It’s a mix of locals, tourists, and people who fell in love with the place and never left. Signs and quirky décor cover every inch, and it’s the kind of spot where you feel like family five minutes after arriving.
From there, we cruised along the coast, stopping at various little beach bars and lookout points. We found hammocks swaying in the breeze, live music drifting through the air, and friendly faces at every stop. Some places were lively, others more peaceful—but everyone had cold drinks, amazing views, and that unmistakable Cozumel charm.
One of the highlights? Finding a secluded stretch of beach with nobody around. We parked the car, kicked off our shoes, and dipped our toes into the warm, crystal-clear water. No crowds, no rush—just us, the sea, and the sound of nature. It was one of those moments you wish to bottle up and keep forever.
Tequila Time
Before heading back to the ship, we made one more unforgettable stop—a local tequila farm! Tucked away off the main road, this hidden gem offered a guided tour during which we learned all about the traditional process of making tequila—from harvesting the agave to distillation.
It was fascinating and full of local pride. Of course, we got to taste test a variety of tequilas, from smooth silvers to rich añejos and even some flavored ones (the coconut tequila was dangerously good!).
We ended up buying a few bottles to bring home as souvenirs. It also helped to keep the vacation spirit going just a little longer. It was the perfect final stop before heading back to the ship. And now we’ll always have a bottle (or two) of Cozumel to remember the day by.
Eventually, we made our way back toward the port. We dropped off the rental. And boarded the ship with salt in our hair, sand on our flip-flops, and hearts full of island joy. But we stopped to pick up some T-shirts at the famous Margaritaville Bar before boarding the ship.
Back on board, we grabbed dinner and caught the sunset from our balcony. The sky lit up with fiery oranges and soft purples as Cozumel slowly disappeared behind us. We clinked glasses and agreed that today was something special.
Whether you’re a beach bum, a tiki bar explorer, or love the idea of freedom on four wheels, Cozumel has so much to offer beyond the usual.
Our trip’s highlight was renting a car and exploring the island’s Caribbean side.
Are you curious about Cozumel and ready to make memories like these? Let me help you plan your next cruise adventure. Contact me at danna@takeatriptoday.com or call/text 352-209-2792, and let’s get your island dreams on the calendar. ☀️🌊🚗🍹
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