The island of Cozumel, off Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is expecting to welcome more than 9 million visitors during 2026. According to Mayor José Luis Chacón, a combination of improved air connections, a busy schedule of sporting events, and strong cruise ship traffic is driving the growth.
Recent years have seen steady increases in tourism. In 2024, the island set a record with 4.6 million cruise passengers, finally surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The numbers continued to climb in 2025, with 4.72 million cruise visitors. Air travel also reached an all-time high, with over 700,000 passengers flying into the Cozumel airport. Ferry service between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel carried more than 3.6 million passengers, bringing the island close to the 9 million mark.
The first two months of 2026 have started positively. Hotel occupancy was strong throughout January and February, and during the Carnival celebrations, hotels were full. The mayor also highlighted that some cruise ships will now extend their stays in port until 10 p.m., giving visitors more time to spend money in local shops, restaurants, and bars.
Why Cozumel Is Increasingly Popular
Cozumel’s appeal rests on several factors that bring visitors back year after year.
World-Class Diving
The island sits next to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world. This makes Cozumel one of the top diving destinations globally. Divers and snorkelers come to see coral formations, sea turtles, rays, and hundreds of tropical fish species in clear, calm water.
Beaches for Everyone
The island offers different beach experiences. On the west coast, facing the mainland, the water is calm and protected, ideal for swimming. Public beaches like Playa Palancar and Playa Corona have beach clubs with loungers, food service, and snorkeling gear rentals. On the east coast, beaches like Playa Chumul face the open Caribbean Sea with stronger waves and a wilder feel.
There is also the fact that Cozumel’s Isla Pasion was recently voted the world’s best beach in a TripAdvisor poll.
Maya History
Cozumel was an important pilgrimage site for the ancient Maya, who traveled here to worship Ixchel, the goddess of fertility. At San Gervasio, the only Maya archaeological site open to the public, visitors can walk through the remains of temples and plazas built about a thousand years ago. The Cozumel Museum in San Miguel tells the story of the island from Maya times to the present.
Dining and Shopping
The food scene has grown beyond basic tourist fare. Small restaurants serve fresh seafood and authentic Mexican dishes. Craft breweries have opened, including Cerveceria Punta Sur, the island’s first microbrewery. Shopping ranges from silver jewelry stores to artisan markets where local artists sell handmade crafts. Renting a Jeep or scooter is a popular way to explore the island independently.
Major Events
Cozumel has become a destination for sports tourism. The island will host major triathlons in 2026, including the IRONMAN 70.3 in September and the Full IRONMAN in November. These events attract athletes and their families from around the world. The February Carnival celebration is another major draw, filling hotels and boosting business for local merchants.
Cruise Industry Strength
Cozumel remains one of the busiest cruise ports in the Caribbean, receiving 1,300 ships in 2025. Eleven new cruise ships made their first visits during the year. Royal Caribbean plans to open its Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026, providing another attraction for cruise passengers.
Visitors Are Staying Longer
Recent media coverage, including a “36 Hours” feature in the New York Times, has highlighted that, beyond the cruise-ship crowds, Cozumel offers a peaceful experience for overnight visitors. Hotel options range from beachfront properties on the east coast to sleek boutique hotels and comfortable waterfront options in town. Local tourism officials have been working to attract more overnight guests, spreading economic benefits to more businesses.