We were there April 2011 & walked through the shops in port following signs to the taxis. It was around $7 for the cab to town-San Miguel. We walked around and went to Pancho's Backyard where they had Mexican musicians playing. Heard the food was Americanized but we just had margaritas & shopped next door, before going to a grocery store down the street to buy Mexican vanilla. You can get a cab back to the pier by Pancho's Backyard.

Tulum and Xel-ha would be nice, but back over on the mainland. Dinner in Playa del Carmen before getting back to the ship.

There are two cruise ship piers. We would need to know which one their ship uses to recommend transportation. Most likely they will want to take a taxi to town unless they are great walkers. The walk isn't difficult - flat and along the sea, but it will most likely be hot and there isn't much shade.

The small ruins on the island are in the center and would require a taxi or tour to get there.

The nature preserve is on the south end of the island --- called Punta Sur. It is mostly a beach area with a small museum of sorts and a snack place. It is a long way by taxi.

In town they could walk around. Sometimes just eating lunch at a place on the town square is fun for people watching. Try Casa Denis - its a historical favorite. Look inside at the old photos when Fidel and Che visited the island and dined there.

There is a very nice island museum on the north end of main street. They also have a good restaurant on the second floor that is open for breakfast. It overlooks the ocean.

There is a small church on the back side of the square that is interesting. Just walking some of the back streets such as Ave. 10 from north to south behind the main square is also interesting to see how the locals live and shop away from the tourists. It is very safe.

MichelleY, Tulum and Xel-ha are not on Cozumel. Seeing them or dining in Playa would require coordinating a crossing on the ferry to reconnect with the ship.

TC- realize that Tulum etc.are not on Cozumel. Throwing that out as option if offered by cruise line or if they want to consider it for the day. That is what we did on our cruise to this area.

Thanks everyone. Yes I do realize Cozumel is the island and Tulum, PdC, etc. are over on the mainland.

I'm not sure which port they will come into or how long their time off the ship will be, but these hints, tips, and suggestions are just wonderful! And much appreciated!!

We are in Cozumel right now and just spent the most fun time at "Salsa y Salsa"-- there were lots of folks from the cruise ships in port in attendance. You will learn to make five different salsas and two types of margaritas (thet also have non-alcoholic choices). The "class" ends with salsa dancing lessons. After you can enjoy the beach club.