This post featuring some of the best things in Cozumel with kids may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.
Cozumel offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for families. We traveled there with our young daughter during a recent Spring Break, and from the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warm smiles, incredible food, and so many fun things to do. While the port area can be busy with cruise crowds, there’s a whole island beyond it waiting to be explored—turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and unforgettable experiences and excursions for all ages.
If you’re wondering what to do in Cozumel with kids, we’ve got you covered in this family guide. Whether you’re planning a full itinerary for Cozumel with kids or just looking for a few must-do activities, this island delivers! There’s no shortage of family-friendly fun, from snorkeling in crystal-clear water to splashing on the best beaches in Cozumel with kids. This guide features our favorite ways to make the most of your time in Cozumel with your kids! Discover our top picks for the top 8+ Exciting Excursions and Things to Do in Cozumel with Kids.
Where to Stay in Cozumel with Kids: Casa Mandarina Cozumel
Before jumping into all the fun things to do in Cozumel with kids, let’s talk about where to stay. Finding the right home base makes all the difference, and for our family, Casa Mandarina Cozumel was a perfect fit.
This charming, apartment-style stay is just a short walk from the main port area, offering both convenience and a relaxed, tropical vibe. Our one-bedroom unit had plenty of space to spread out, a pull-out couch for our daughter, and a fully equipped kitchen—ideal for easy breakfasts or snacks between adventures. Thoughtful extras like air conditioning, WiFi, Netflix-ready TVs, and weekly cleaning made our stay even more stress-free.
The real highlight? The outdoor space! A beautiful pool, lush greenery, and even little lizards kept our daughter entertained. Lounge chairs, shaded tables, and a rinse tank for snorkel gear made it the perfect place to unwind after exploring the island together. If you’re wondering what to do in Cozumel with kids, staying here is a great start!
More Excellent Places to Stay in Cozumel with Kids
If you need more kid-friendly hotel ideas in Cozumel, here are some additional properties to consider on the island:
- Grand Park Royal Cozumel
- The Westin Cozumel
- Casa Mexicana
- Villas El Encanto
- Meliá Cozumel – All-Inclusive Resort
- Cozumel Palace – All-Inclusive Resort
- Check Vrbo for other fantastic accommodations for families in Cozumel.
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
Inside Cozumel´s National Reef Marine Park, Carr. Costera Sur Km. 9, Zona Hotelera Nte., 77688 Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
For a fun-filled day on the island, Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park offers one of the best beaches in Cozumel with kids. Located inside Cozumel’s National Reef Marine Park, this spot has everything you need for a beach day—turquoise waters, incredible snorkeling, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but it’s popular for a reason!
The calm, shallow inlet is perfect for little swimmers, while older kids and adults can snorkel among colorful fish. Beyond the water, there’s a sandy playground, splash area, cultural exhibits, and even animal encounters. As one of the best things to do in Cozumel with kids, you won’t be disappointed with all the amenities available throughout the day!
Want to take it easy? Grab a complimentary cabana, relax in a hammock, or enjoy beachfront food and drink service. With restaurants, family amenities, and even tequila tastings for the grown-ups, Chankanaab makes for an unforgettable family beach day!
Grab a Sweet Treat at Flamingo Ice Cream Bar
35 Avenida Sur 5av, Centro, 77668 Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
No itinerary for Cozumel with kids is complete without an ice cream stop! After a delicious meal in Centro, head to Flamingo Ice Cream Bar, a vibrant little shop just off the main square. This spot is a hit with families for its classic and unique flavors. A scoop or two here will undoubtedly satisfy any sweet tooth!
Kids will love picking out their favorite scoop. Meanwhile, the fun, colorful atmosphere makes it a memorable stop for all ages. Whether you’re craving something tropical or sticking to tried-and-true favorites, this is the perfect way to cool off and wrap up a day of island adventures.
Rent a Jeep and Take a Little Road Trip to Punta Sur
To be honest, this was my favorite day on the island! I highly recommend it for your own itinerary for Cozumel with kids.
Start your morning by renting a jeep and heading to Punta Sur! The drive itself is an adventure, with rental spots near the port offering jeeps for $40–$100 a day. Prefer not to drive on your own? Plenty of tours will take you there, too!
Punta Sur is Cozumel’s southernmost point and part of a massive 247-acre ecological park packed with wildlife and stunning scenery. We spotted crocodiles, coatis, colorful birds, and plenty of curious lizards! The park is also home to some of the best beaches in Cozumel for kids, with calm, clear water that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Climb the historic lighthouse for incredible views, stop by the crocodile tower, or grab a beachfront lounger at one of the laid-back restaurants. The roads can be bumpy (we learned the hard way on our first trip here—hello, flat tire! Don’t let this scare you off, though!), but this is easily one of the best excursions and things to do with kids in Cozumel. Just remember to bring cash for the park entrance fee!
Check out this Guided Tour to Punta Sur!
Book a Snorkeling Tour with Jeep Riders Cozumel Tours
If you’re planning an itinerary for Cozumel with kids, a snorkeling tour with snorkeling tour with Jeep Riders Cozumel Tours is a must! This excursion takes you to four incredible spots, including Palancar Reef, Colombia Reef, and El Cielo, a dreamy sandbank known for its crystal-clear waters, starfish, and stingrays. The name “El Cielo” means “heaven,” and trust me—it lives up to it!
This was one of my favorite excursions and my daughter’s first time snorkeling. She was in awe of the underwater world, though a small jellyfish sting did give her a brief scare. She was brave and got back in, but I’d recommend long-sleeve swimwear (arms and legs) or a rash guard for little ones. Unfortunately, she wasn’t the only one who was stung during our tour.
The crew is fantastic—patient, knowledgeable, and great with kids. They even dive down to point out sea turtles and tropical fish! With a shuttle from the main port and taxis arranged afterward, this tour is as seamless as it is unforgettable.
Pro tip: Book a morning tour to beat the heat and enjoy calm tides.
Take an Authentic Mexican Cooking Class with Jeep Riders Cozumel Tours
For a unique, hands-on experience, add an authentic Mexican cooking class with Jeep Riders Cozumel Tours to your itinerary for Cozumel with kids. This is more than just a meal—it’s a deep dive into local flavors and traditions, making it one of the best non-touristy things to do in Cozumel.
The adventure starts at a local market, where you’ll shop for fresh ingredients while learning about regional produce. The market is vibrant, lively, and a fantastic cultural experience for kids and adults alike. We loved it so much that we even went back later in our trip just to explore more! The added market experience made this one of our favorite family excursions in Cozumel.
Next, you’ll head to a local home, where you’ll get hands-on in the kitchen, making everything from scratch—fresh tortillas, guacamole, salsa, and a delicious main dish chosen by the group. Our family made Veracruz-style fish, but vegetarian options are available, too.
After cooking, everyone gathers for a family-style feast, making this one of the best things to do in Cozumel with kids—and easily one of the best meals you’ll have on the island! Bonus: you’ll take home recipes to bring a little taste of Cozumel back with you.
Click here to book this family cooking lesson with Viator.
A Quick Note About the Tour
Our tour included a tequila tasting, even though it wasn’t listed in the booking (and still isn’t). Honestly, I’d skip it next time. While the farm and the history of tequila on the island were interesting, the experience felt a bit off—our server was overly pushy, which took away from the fun of the cooking lesson and market excursion.
If you’ve never done a tequila tasting before, you might enjoy it more than we did. But for us, it wasn’t a highlight. The cooking tour itself was incredible—easily one of the best experiences we had in Cozumel. If I were to do it again, I’d focus on that and pass on the tasting.
Walk Around Centro (the Port Area) + Do A Little Shopping
During your visit, take some time to explore Centro, the heart of Cozumel. This historic port area is the most touristy part of the island, packed with restaurants, souvenir shops, and excursion vendors. When cruise ships are in, it’s buzzing with activity, but by late afternoon, the crowds thin, making it a great time to wander.
Walking through Centro is a fun way to soak in the island’s energy. Stroll through colorful shopping streets, grab a bite at a local restaurant, or visit the Church of Corpus Christi. The Museo de Cozumel is also nearby if you want to learn more about the island’s history.
The central plaza is the perfect place to take a break—live music, food vendors, and occasional events make it a lively spot. Whether you’re looking for a casual evening stroll or a little shopping, Centro offers a fun slice of Cozumel with kids!
READ NEXT: Epic 5-Day Itinerary for Cozumel with Kids
Try the Local Flavors
One of the best things to do in Cozumel with kids is to experience the island’s vibrant food scene. And, really, isn’t trying new foods one of the best things about traveling?
If you’re wondering what to do in Cozumel with kids when it comes to dining, you’re in for a treat. From authentic flavors to local taco trucks, there’s something for every palate. During our recent trip, we set out to explore the best family-friendly restaurants, both in the bustling cruise port and tucked away from the crowds.
Our adventures led us to hidden gems like Quesadillas “La Palapa”, where homemade dishes like chilaquiles and fresh-squeezed juices made for a perfect start to our day. For a quick bite, Crazy King Burrito offers delicious hand-rolled burritos. But our absolute favorite was La Clásica Cozumel, an intimate spot with a traditional cantina feel, where we savored an unforgettable molcajete. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood or Mexican classics, the island’s local flavors will make mealtime just as memorable as the adventures!
Looking for more family-friendly restaurant ideas to pack into your Cozumel itinerary? Read my Foodie Parent’s Guide to 10 Excellent Restaurants in Cozumel with Kids.
Ignite Your Senses at Mercado Municipal
Calle Dr Adolfo Rosado Salas, Centro, 77668 Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
If you’re looking for more non-touristy things to do in Cozumel, visiting the Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market) is a must. This charming, local market in the heart of San Miguel offers an authentic glimpse into the island’s culture and food.
This is the market I mentioned earlier during the cooking class. After the class, we couldn’t resist the chance to explore it further on our own. During our second visit, we even grabbed lunch at one of the counters.
It’s not large or flashy, but it’s filled with fresh produce, handmade goods, and the warm smiles of the vendors. As you stroll through the market, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant fruits, vegetables, tortillas, and even fish, all brimming with the island’s flavors.
The market is certainly a sensory adventure in Cozumel with kids, with colorful stalls, tantalizing food smells, and unique souvenirs like handwoven textiles and leather sandals. Whether hunting for local snacks to try, a quick lunch, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere, the Mercado Municipal provides an authentic taste of Cozumel’s charm.
More Fun Things to Do in Cozumel with Kids
Are you looking for more things to do in Cozumel with kids? Here are a few places we either visited during our first trip or saved for the next time we visit. This list just gives you a few more ideas for tours, excursions, and activities as you plan your family itinerary to Cozumel.
- Zona Arqueológica San Gervasio—We went here on our first trip to Cozumel and really enjoyed it! I highly recommend it if you haven’t been to the island before.
- Cozumel Musem – local history museum.
- Take the Atlantis Submarine tour to see marine life without getting wet yourself.
- Mayan Bee Sanctuary is a great spot to learn about local history and honey production.
- Looking for more beach club ideas? Other beach clubs in Cozumel for kids include Paradise Beach, Playa Palancar Beach Club, and Mr. Sanchos Beach Club.
Plus, a few family-friendly excursions and tours in Cozumel with kids:
- The Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour
- Cozumel Snorkeling Tour to Palancar Reef and El Cielo
- Cozumel El Cielo All Inclusive Tour from Cancun
- Invisible Boat Snorkeling Tour
- Cozumel Sightseeing Trike Tour with Lunch
- Private Cozumel Jeep Tour & Jade Caverns Cenote: All-Inclusive
- Cozumel Mayan Ruins and Beach Break
- Authentic Mayan Cooking Class in Cozumel
- Cozumel Jeep Adventure to Jade Caverns with Lunch and Snorkel
Have Fun in Cozumel with Your Kids!
Cozumel offers so many kid-friendly things to do that you’ll have no trouble filling your itinerary with unforgettable experiences. I hope this guide gives you some great ideas on how to start building your own itinerary for Cozumel with kids. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and exploring vibrant marine life to sampling delicious local flavors and wandering through colorful markets, there’s something for every family. Whether you’re looking for the best excursions in Cozumel with kids, like a jeep ride to Punta Sur or a cooking class with locals, or simply enjoying some beach time at the best beaches in Cozumel with kids, you’ll find plenty of ways to create lasting memories with your travel crew. No matter your interests, Cozumel is an island that will capture the hearts of parents and kids alike!
Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.