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The Westin Cozumel
Relax and recharge at this rejuvenating gay-friendly Cozumel hotel
Featured Gay Friendly Hotel in Cozumel
Gay Cozumel
Cozumel, Mexico, is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, located off the Eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula across from Playa del Carmen.
It was originally settled by the Olmec even before the Maya. Cozumel has been inhabited for over millennia. Cozmels’ original inhabitants and many of its sacred temples were destroyed by Hernan Cortes and smallpox in the 16th century. Maya women would come to Cozumel to worship the fertility/moon goddess, Ix Chel, traveling by canoe from Playa del Carmen or Tulum in a fashion similar to many of today's visitors. The Maya gave the island its name. ‘Cuzam’ means “swallow” like the bird, and ‘lumil’ means ‘land of’ so Cozumel translates to “land of Swallows”. There’s also a handful of endemic species such as a raccoon, a fox, and a colorful species of toadfish that cannot be found anywhere else.
Today, it’s a popular cruise destination, and you'll often see Royal Caribbean ships in port.
All Aboard! Let's Set Sail Together and Discover Cozumel!
Top Things to See and Do in Cozumel
MUST DO: Attractions & Activities
MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Local Expert: Gay Scene in Cozumel
Cozumel is a well-known gay-friendly area of Mexico. In fact, same-sex marriages are legally performed in the state of Quintana Roo to which Cozumel belongs. There is an annual Pride celebration on the island, and there have been several hotels or bars in the past that have advertised to a gay clientele.
Photo Credit: Nathan Trampe
Best Time to Visit Cozumel
Cozumel is a tropical island with sunny beaches and lush tropical greenery. That being said, the best time to visit would be between the summer months of March through June. This would offer day time temperatures of 90 and nighttime lows of 70. Even winters are pleasant with temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the high 80s. So it would be smart to pack and dress in layers. Finally, the rainy season starts from late summer and lasts till early fall. If rainy tropical weather sounds like a perfect time to go, great! Just know that the island has been prone to hurricanes.
Photo Credit: Jakob Owens
Top Things to See and Do in Cozumel
As a tropical island, one can imagine all of the best things Cozumel has to offer. First, why not soak up the sun on one of its many beaches? The island is small, so there is no specific gay Cozumel beach, but the laid-back vibe is very inclusive everywhere. Then, explore the island and many of its lush greenery and breathtaking ocean landscapes. After that, you can indulge in some of the local restaurants and try some of the best Mexican food Cozumel has to offer. While you're at it, you can also sip on some tequila on its many Cozumel beach bars and lounges. Finally, after a long day of sunbathing, swimming, eating, and drinking, enjoy a quiet and peaceful beach sunset over the tropical ocean. Cozumel is known for its low key quieter destination in comparison to other Mexican destinations. Embrace it.
Photo Credit: Fernando Jorge
MUST DO Cozumel Attractions & Activities
Grab your snorkel and let's dive into the beautiful sea!
While in Cozumel, exploring the island and swimming in its beaches may sound like all that there is to do, but there is so much more to do and see while you are there. Below are some activities that you can do while strolling around.
1) Enjoy the beaches and scenery
2) Plan an excursion and explore the ancient ruins of the Maya
3) Eat and drink at the local Mexican restaurants
4) Sip tequila and other liquors and the local bars and nightlife
5) Shop for souvenirs, jewelry, and liquor at the local shopping centers
6) Watch the sunsets
Photo Credit: Manuel Calderon
If you just have one day in Cozumel, we suggest you purchase an all-inclusive day pass at Chankanaab. Chankanaab National Park is a fantastic eco-park located inside Cozumel’s National Reef Park where you’ll find dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, tropical fish, and beautiful coral.
You might even spot some underwater artifacts!
Alternatively, you can go SCUBA diving right off the beach! Their experts will guide you through some amazing cave diving where you might just run into a school of giant tarpon fish!!
MUST EAT Cozumel Gay-Friendly Dining
Since Cozumel is a tropical island, one can expect the local delicacies to be seafood. Local delicacies are fried fish, ceviche (fresh raw fish cured in lime), and of course different variations of cooked fish. If seafood is not your favorite kind of food, Cozumel offers a variety of different traditional Mexican dishes that one can enjoy. Street tacos are always a popular option along with other Mexican dishes such as Pozole, (a hominy-based stew) Carne Asada ( grilled skirt steak), and more! Explore what the locals have to offer and know that there would always be something for the adventurous eater and something for the picky eater as well.
MUST VISIT: Cozumel Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Cozumel is such a small island that there are no gay bars per sé. Nonetheless, the bars cater to a gay clientele and you'll always find friendly faces that make you feel like you're one of the locals!
Photo Credit: Cleaner Shrimp by Tam Warner
Travel Safety Tips
Is Cozumel safe? Cozumel is considered one of the safest places to visit in Mexico. Its small island and laid back attitude are welcoming to foreigners and the LGBT community. However, just like visiting any other destination, it’s always smart to stay cautious. Always keep personal belongings close to you, and lock up any other important personal belongings in the hotel’s safe. Finally, stay vigilant and be cautious while on excursions. Getting hurt while hiking or snorkeling could be a nuisance that can spoil a good time while on vacation.
Don’t miss a chance to explore the other half of the island– underwater! Sea TREK helmet diving is a quick and unique way to experience life under the sea.
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