Cozumel or Isla Mujeres??
 

Have not been to either place. We'll be spending 6 nites in Akumal at ABR for our 2 son's graduations (one high school, one college). I'm imagining that Akumal is fairly laid-back.
We have 3 additional nites to plan. Would like to spend them in a more vibrant location (though not like Cancun) with decent snorkeling and a town where kids (and us) could walk to and maybe a little shopping--though not overrun with aggressive vendors. Can't figure out between Cozumel and Isla M. ?? Any help appreciated.
Thank you, Joan

Both locations are laid back. I.M. is less populated; no major hotels or resorts; with small shops and cafes. Cozumel has more restaurants & stores and is far superior for snorkeling (IMO, the best in the Yucatan area). If you opt for Cozumel, Chankanaubb and Dzul Ha are very good places to snorkel from the beach.

Playa del Carmen or Isla Mujeres.

Do you want night life? Isla Mujeres is more quiet with less to do than Playa Del Carmen - however I would choose Isla Mujeres - it's a personal decision.

We will be renting a car and dropping it in Merida. If we want to go to either Cozumel or Isla mujeres, is there a secure place to park the car at the ferry crossing??