We love Doña Chely’s family run taco stand for its authentic Mexican food and warm ambiance which is our favorite goto restaurant for breakfast and lunch. . Nestled conveniently along the main highway, just outside our lovely Residencias Reef grounds, it’s easily accessible for our Cozumello.com guests. They offer traditional dishes that are both flavorful and comforting. The open-air setting with a charming tin roof enhances the local vibe, providing an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy meals made fresh to order. The menu is rich with signature items such as tacos, sopes, tortas, and specialty meats including carne asada and chorizo. 

Los Tacotales sits right in the heart of Cozumel on 15th Avenida Sur between Calle 3 Sur and Calle Dr Adolfol Rosado Salas, and it feels like the kind of spot locals quietly love and visitors are happy to stumble upon. From the moment you arrive, the place gives off a relaxed, no-frills vibe that makes you focus on what really matters: the food, the prices, and the experience. It’s casual, welcoming, and perfectly suited for a quick lunch or an easygoing meal after exploring the area. For more information click here.

Whether you’re craving traditional street-style tacos packed with bold flavors, handcrafted pizzas with a creative twist, or an ice-cold craft beer to complete the experience, Tzalam offers something unforgettable for every appetite. They have 2 locations the first is located at the corner of 30th Av. and Adolfo Rosado and the second location is on Av Benito Juarez (the transversal) between Ave 103 and 105. To visit their website click here.

A French café, located on Calle 2 Nte (1 block east of Melgar), with delicious breakfast specials, we recommend the La Francés for breakfast – 3 eggs any style, salad, potatoes, bacon, baguette, butter/jam, coffee or orange juice; delicious! Everyting in the Artisan bakery and all their dishes are made with fresh ingredients. They offer high-quality pastries and the best coffee on the island of Cozumel. Also try the handmade ice cream, savory or sweet crepes, and many other delights at Sucré Salé Cozumel.” To see their full menu on their website click here.

Located at 20th Avenida Sur between Calle 3 Sur and Calle Dr Adolfo Rosado Salas, Las Tapatías is one of the hidden gems we discovered while on a walking tour of downtown San Miguel. Located at 20 Av. Sur 215, this vibrant restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its flavor-packed dishes and welcoming ambiance. You’ll love the festive decor, and warm inviting atmosphere. Las Tapatias Cozumel not only delivers remarkable culinary treats but also embodies the essence of local charm. Whether you’re savoring a sope with asada or refreshing jamaica agua fresca, Las Tapatías will leave you delighted. If you’re ready for a feast of authentic flavors in a comfortable setting, make this a go-to spot in Cozumel! You can follow them on their Facebook page.

Located right on Melgar and situatied in a luscious courtyard embraced by the shade of trees and colorful bougainvillea you will enjoy Yvonne’s daily specials of fresh fish, seafood platters and meats. Traditional Swiss-Italian cuisine, great tasting pizzas & lasagnas cooked in a well seasoned wood-fired oven and the homemade pastas, make it a unique dining experience that will keep you coming back for more. Homemade ice cream and exquisite desserts, a list of finely selected international wines and Guido’s famous pitcher of Sangria help round out a memorable meal. To learn more click here.

Walking through the iron gate of Casa Mission is like stepping into another era—without ever leaving Cozumel. The iconic colonial façade sets the tone for an experience that blends heritage, flavor, and soul. Once a private retreat for governors and aristocrats, Casa Mission is now a vibrant space where tradition lives on in every bite and every corner. Here, past and present come together—through authentic recipes, lush gardens, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. La Casa Mission is located on 55 Av. Between Juarez Av. And Street 1St South and is a one of our favorites for dinners out. Visit them online here.

Del Sur Parrilla Argentina is a vibrant dining destination located on 5a Avenida Sur 1 block east of Melgar. Specializing in authentic Argentinian cuisine, this restaurant prides itself on its rich flavors and generous portions. Their barbecue platters, which combine grilled meats like chicken, pork, and steak, paired with fresh vegetables and delectable sides are delicious. The empanadas, noted for their unique flavors, are our personal favorite. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, complemented by exceptional service, a full bar, and a curated selection of fine wines. With an emphasis on both culture and quality, Del Sur offers a truly memorable culinary experience worth savoring.

Azul Madera, located on Calle 3 Sur, offers a creative fusion of Mexican and Asian ingredients and serves up delicious Mediterranean style food. Their bases and sauces combined with vegetables, meats, fish and fresh seafood will make your visit a unique experience on the Island.

La Cocay is one of Cozumel’s standout dining spots for travelers looking for a refined yet approachable island meal, blending international techniques with bold Caribbean-Mexican inspiration. The menu highlights creative dishes like goat cheese empanaditas served with mango chutney, tuna tartar canapés with avocado mousse, and garlic-roasted octopus prepared with white wine and basil—showcasing how the kitchen elevates classic ingredients with coastal flavors. Guests can also enjoy heartier options such as seafood pasta with shrimp, mussels, fish, and calamari in a garlic-white wine sauce, or the signature duck breast finished with fig and cassis sauce. For a more casual indulgence, wood-fired pizzas like the shrimp pizza or duck confit pizza with black cherries are popular picks, while mains such as seared tuna with passionfruit sauce or filet mignon with red wine demi-glace bring a fine-dining touch to the island experience. With everything from fresh salads and tapas-style plates to rich pastas and elegant desserts, La Cocay offers Cozumel travelers a versatile menu that works equally well for a relaxed dinner or a special night out.

Torches reflecting on the waters of the Caribbean, and the glittering lights of the mainland in the near distance make up the surreal Buccanos vista. Their vibrant decor fuses traditional and contemporary styles offering the perfect coastal experience combined with a magical panoramic ocean view. This is a trendy hot spot for locals and tourists alike. Buccanos offers contemporary seafood using fresh fish and premium quality ingredients that change with the season. Don’t miss this magical experience, they are located at Carretera San Juan Kilometro 4.5, Zona Hotelera Nte. and are open Tuesday – Saturday from 6 – 10:30 PM.

La Aldea, a gem nestled on the pristine north west shore of Cozumel, Mexico. It is located at Av. Rafael E. Melgar in Balneario Casitas. This charming beach club/restaurant captures the very essence of laid-back Caribbean beach life and has some of the best prices on the island; something to keep in mind for budget conscience travelers. If you arrive early enough you can watch the incoming international flights while relaxing in sandy beach seating while enjoying your favorite drink. The picturesque views of the turquoise waters are second to none and totally embody island life. Note: This is a great place to see the sunsets from! Visit them on Facebook.

La Monina offers sweeping Caribbean views and a laid-back island atmosphere, this is the kind of place Cozumel travelers love. Friendly service and easygoing vibes set the tone for an experience where great food meets the beauty of the sea. The menu ranges from fresh seaside breakfasts to get your day started right, to Mexican favorites, fresh-caught seafood, grilled specialties, and tropical cocktails made for slow island afternoons. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, a family, or with friends, this is a relaxed coastal escape where every meal is elevated by the natural surroundings and the rhythm of Cozumel.

At Hemingway Cozumel, guests are invited into a laid-back oceanfront beach club experience where Caribbean scenery and relaxed island living come together. By day, it’s a welcoming spot to enjoy breakfast and casual dining just steps from the sea, with a focus on fresh flavors and an easy beach atmosphere. As the day unfolds, the setting transitions into a lively social space where cocktails, music, and a vibrant coastal vibe create the perfect backdrop for both unwinding and celebration. Every visit blends food, views, and atmosphere into a true Cozumel beachside experience.

Sunset Bar and Grill Beach Club in Cozumel is a relaxed, oceanfront escape on the island’s Caribbean shoreline where the focus is on easygoing beach days, fresh food, and tropical cocktails right by the water. Guests can settle into a laid-back beach club atmosphere with direct sea views while enjoying an all-day menu that ranges from hearty breakfasts and fresh ceviche to tacos, burgers, seafood dishes, and grilled specialties, alongside a full bar featuring margaritas, mojitos, piña coladas, and signature cocktails made for sunset sipping. Known for its friendly service and casual island vibe, it’s the kind of place where visitors can spend the day moving between the beach, lounge chairs, and bar while taking in Cozumel’s famous sunsets and warm Caribbean breeze.

A Bob Marley–themed beach club, Rastas is the first of several stops along Cozumel’s “wild side” coastline. Located around Kilometer 30 on the Carretera Costera Sur, just past Punta Sur (Tourist Tip: do not drive on the frontage road, it’s off limits and you’ll get a ticket!), it’s a popular destination for travelers exploring the island’s eastern shore and a favorite stop for beach bar hopping adventures. Be sure to try the peanut butter tequila while enjoying the breeze and the unforgettable scenery of Cozumel’s rugged coastline.

Or as we like to call it, “The Mojito Factory.” This is our second stop along the C1 when exploring the east side of Cozumel and a favorite destination for handcrafted tropical cocktails. Their drinks are made with fresh fruit juices and authentic ingredients, many of which are ground by hand in a traditional molcajete, including fresh mint for their signature mojitos. Watching the bartenders craft each drink is part of the experience itself. Like many of the island’s beach clubs, Miami also offers a delicious variety of food, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal by the sea. Afterward, unwind in one of their oceanfront hammocks, take in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the refreshing Caribbean breeze. They also have a downtown location, right next to Puerta Langosta.

Not one of our usual stops but if you’ve never been there drop in! Also along the C1 this tropical beachfront restaurant is known for its fresh island flavors, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable ocean views. Popular favorites include the fresh ceviche, flavorful shrimp tacos, and perfectly grilled snapper, all best enjoyed with an ice-cold piña colada or classic Mexican cola in hand (they just taste better in Mexico).

Another one of our favorite recommended stops along the C1 on Cozumel’s wild side, this beachfront spot offers the perfect mix of great food, tropical drinks, and laid-back island vibes. Like many of the beach clubs along this scenic stretch of coastline, you’ll find a full bar, delicious menu options, and plenty of places to relax and enjoy the view. The shoreline here is somewhat protected by a rock barrier from the open sea creating perfect tide pools, making it an ideal place to cool off with a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters while soaking in the beauty of the island’s rugged east side.

This beach club right off the C1 sits atop the highest point on the island. It’s a favorite tourist stop with great views, and an entertaining “photo album” among other things (don’t ask to see under the waiters aprons)! They keep a few tropical birds around and there is even a croc to see. If this is your first time on the wild side this place is a must visit.

This is a favorite of ours on the wild side along the C1. The staff is super friendly and attentive, the food is great, the beach is perfect and the ocean is inviting. We often spend the day here just relaxing or playing a game of Mexican Train with friends and family. There is plenty of under palapa seating all with hammocks making this the perfect spot to relax with a good book while sipping on a cold beer.

Nice spot on the C1 just before the road turns west back to town. This rustic open-air palapa style bar offers a panoramic ocean view along with great food, drinks and live music a couple of times a week. This is one of our regular stops when cruising the wild side. They open at 10:00 AM and like most of the beach bars on the wild side close around 5:00 PM.

Mezcalito’s, located on C1 where the road turns west and back to town this is a “must-stop” for a delicious margarita while exploring the east side of the island. Along with the excellent margaritas you’ll find covered oceanfront seating, laid-back vibes, and a more rustic local feel. On the menu are fish tacos, ceviche, shrimp dishes, fajitas, guacamole, and casual Mexican seafood. Lay back in one of the beachfront hammocks and chill while you take in to the roar of the ocean waves crashing onto the sandy shore, a total calming experience.

Ready to ditch the tourist trail and dive straight into local Cozumel flavor? Step into La Gitana, a hidden-away traditional cantina where things get deliciously authentic and a little wild. Tucked along 65 Avenida Sur in Cozumel, this spot is all about old-school island vibes—cold beers hitting the table fast, and complimentary botanas showing up like they know exactly what you need. It’s dark, lively, and full of energy, with locals filling the space, live music setting the tone, and ceviche that steals the show (the sea snail version is a must if you’re feeling adventurous). This isn’t just a stop—it’s a local experience where you settle in, lose track of time, and let Cozumel do its thing.

La Internacional Cervecería is a craft beer lover’s playground and the ultimate hangout for good times and great pours. With 100+ craft beers to explore, there’s always something new waiting in your glass—from bold local brews to unique international favorites you’ve never tried before. Catch the game on big-screen TVs while you sip, or kick back outside and soak in the lively atmosphere with friends (and even your dog). Not a beer mood? Their handcrafted cocktails bring just as much creativity to the table. Whether you’re here to discover your next favorite IPA, celebrate a win, or just unwind with a cold one in hand, La Internacional Cervecería is where beer lovers come to stay awhile—and always come back for more.

Cerveceria Punta Sur, Cozumel’s first-ever craft brewery, located between Adolfo Rosado Salas street and 3rd street is a game changer. Punta Sur Cervecería brings fresh, locally brewed beer straight to the island—brewed right on-site with passion, creativity, and a serious love for the craft. This laid-back spot pairs its brewing magic with the irresistible aroma of a wood-fired stone pizza oven and a relaxed island vibe set to easygoing tunes. It’s the kind of place where locals, expats, and craft beer fans instantly feel at home.

At Kusam, no two visits ever feel the same—and that’s exactly the point. The taps are always in motion, rotating through a creative lineup that keeps things fresh, exciting, and worth coming back for. One visit might feature a bold, hop-heavy IPA, the next a crisp lager, a rich, indulgent stout, or a refreshing gluten-free fruity hard seltzer. Whatever the mood, there’s always something on tap to match it. And the experience goes far beyond the beer. The kitchen brings just as much personality and craft to the table, serving up authentic corn tortilla tacos packed with flavor—think fresh fish, al pastor, juicy chicken, tender steak, shrimp, and satisfying vegan options. Whether it’s a quick stop for a drink, a full meal, or both, Kusam delivers a lively, flavor-filled experience that keeps the energy high and the plates (and glasses) never empty. Visit them at the corner of 5th Ave. and Calle 6 Nte.

If you’re looking for the perfect mix of island vibes, amazing food, and unforgettable nightlife, 987 is a must-visit! Perched above the beautiful Cozumel Malecón, this waterfront rooftop hotspot delivers stunning ocean views, handcrafted cocktails, live music, and an atmosphere that keeps the energy going from sunset to late night. Whether you’re stopping in for dinner, drinks with friends, or just to soak in the Caribbean breeze, 987 always delivers a fun and memorable experience. With great service, delicious food, and one of the best waterfront views in town, it’s no surprise this has become one of our favorite regular stops in Cozumel!

Calling all sports fans, music lovers, and people who just enjoy a good time — Dicks Dive has you covered. Catch your favorite team on multiple big-screen TVs while enjoying an ice-cold drink and the lively island atmosphere. Once the games wrap up, the volume turns up with local bands cranking out crowd-favorite tunes late into the night. Conveniently located on 5th Avenue North, just a couple blocks from the ferry pier, it’s the perfect place to celebrate a win… or recover from a heartbreaking overtime loss.

Bringing a true British pub vibe to the island, this is the perfect spot to kick back, enjoy a cold drink, and settle in for some seriously satisfying comfort food. Their weekly specials keep locals and visitors coming back for more — from Meatloaf Tuesday and Friday night brisket to mouthwatering Sunday ribs and pulled pork. Golf fans will feel right at home here too. The pub features the only golf simulator on the island at a great price, and Chris always has the biggest golf tournaments streaming on the bar-side TVs, making it a great place to relax, play, and catch the action. The are located on 10 Ave. Sur between Adolfo Salas and Calle 1.

Monday nights at The Red Zone Cozumel, located on Ave 10, are basically the Super Bowl of island nightlife. This is where die-hard NFL fans, BBQ lovers, and people who yell at referees on TV come together for the ultimate Monday Night Football party. Grab a seat, lock eyes on the big screens, and prepare for a buffet that deserves its own highlight reel — all-you-can-eat BBQ ribs and chicken. That’s right… unlimited ribs, football, cold drinks, and island vibes. Somewhere, your diet just entered concussion protocol.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable day on the water in Cozumel, Chichi Charters is in a league of its own. From the moment you step aboard, Amanda and Chichi make you feel less like a customer and more like part of the family. Their passion for the ocean and personalized service turns every trip into an adventure you’ll be talking about long after your tan fades. Whether you’re chasing big game fish offshore, exploring Cozumel’s crystal-clear reefs on a private snorkeling trip, diving world-famous walls, or booking one of their epic combo tours, there’s something for every kind of ocean lover. Want it all? Their fishing, snorkeling, and sunset cruises deliver the perfect mix of adrenaline, relaxation, and breathtaking Caribbean views. Deep sea fishing, private snorkeling, private diving, sunset cruises, and combo adventures — Chichi Charters does it all, and they do it exceptionally well. Highly recommended for anyone wanting the ultimate Cozumel experience.

When the reels start screaming and the blue water comes alive, there’s only one boat you want to be on — the MyAssIs Dragon. This customized 36-foot Wellcraft Coastal is built for serious offshore action, fully equipped with top-of-the-line Penn International gear, a tournament-style fighting chair, and air-conditioned comfort for those long runs to the fishing grounds. But it’s not just the boat that makes the difference — it’s the crew. Captain Troy and his team are legendary on the waters of Cozumel for putting anglers on fish and delivering nonstop action. From hard-charging mahi and wahoo to bruiser tuna and billfish, these guys know where the bite is and how to make it happen. One of the best boats and crews in Cozumel…period. Proven fish killers. Troy Ruhr and Denise McMillon are true professionals. If you’re serious about deep sea fishing, don’t waste your day anywhere else. Book with them on their Facebook page Dragon Charters.

Whether your dream getaway is laughing the day away with lifelong friends or making unforgettable memories with new ones, Grand Cozumel Catamaran Tours knows exactly where paradise awaits. Glide across the crystal-clear turquoise waters, feel the warm Caribbean breeze, and discover the magic of Cozumel aboard their unforgettable adventures. From relaxing escapes to breathtaking journeys to Passion Island, the stunning shores of El Cielo, and luxurious sunset cruises painted in shades of gold and pink, every tour feels like a postcard come to life. With both private and public excursions available, your perfect day in paradise is waiting on the water.

If you’re looking to turn your time in Cozumel into pure adrenaline and unforgettable ocean adventure, booking a tour with Jet Ski Safari Cozumel is a must. Run by our good friend Kelly Tyler, these tours are all about speed, freedom, and exploring the island’s stunning turquoise coastline in the most fun way possible. You’ll carve across crystal-clear Caribbean waters, discover hidden stretches of shoreline, and feel the thrill of riding your own jet ski with the warm island breeze all around you. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, this is one of those experiences that blends excitement, scenery, and pure vacation energy into one unforgettable ride.

With over 27 years of exploring — and now calling Cozumel home — our good friend Cindy Trautwein knows the island like few others. Whether you’re craving mouthwatering culinary and craft beverage experiences, adrenaline-pumping extreme sports, or unforgettable island adventures, Flip Tours and Excursions Cozumel can make it happen. From hidden local gems to once-in-a-lifetime excursions, Cindy and her team know exactly how to turn your Cozumel vacation into an epic island experience.