Cozumel’s shore excursions are a highlight for many cruise travelers, offering a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. With its lush jungles, vibrant reefs, and ancient Mayan sites, Cozumel provides plenty of options to turn a cruise port visit into a memorable day. Among the many choices, we’re particularly fond of experiences that combine authentic local culture with hands-on activities, like the ATV Jade Cavern & Tequila Tasting. It’s an action-packed tour that takes you off-road into Cozumel’s jungle, into a cenote, and into a tasting session that’ll teach you about Mexico’s most famous spirit.
If you prefer a balance of exploration and relaxation, the Buggy Tour at Punta Sur & Beach Visit offers a scenic drive along the coast, cultural stops, and time to unwind at a beautiful local beach. For those who want a touch of history combined with adventure, the Buggy Tour with Mayan Ruins & Beach Time combines ancient sites, snorkeling, and time to relax—perfect for a full-day outing. And if you’re simply craving a carefree day by the sea with good food and drinks, the Savor Cozumel with Tacos, Beer & Mezcal gives you a flavorful dive into Mexican cuisine and spirits.
1. Cozumel Shore Excursion: ATV Jade Cavern & Tequila Tasting
At number 1 on our list, the Cozumel Shore Excursion: ATV Jade Cavern & Tequila Tasting stands out for its mix of adrenaline and flavor. Priced at $85 per person, this 5-hour adventure begins with a 20-minute bus ride to the jungle. Once there, you’ll hop on an ATV, feeling the thrill as you wind through Cozumel’s dense foliage and uncover the beauty of the island’s off-road trails. The highlight is plunging into Cozumel’s largest cenote, where you can swim in clear waters and marvel at the natural rock formations.
After the adventure in the jungle, the tour guides you to a tequila tasting experience at Cozumel Spirits. Here, you’ll learn about the intricate art of tequila-making, sample different varieties, and enjoy a bit of the local spirit. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an active morning with a splash of cultural insight. The reviews highlight the fun of the off-road riding and the engaging tequila lesson, with many noting it as “the best jungle expedition I’ve ever taken in Cozumel.” The price offers good value considering the combined activities and transport.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an energetic mix of adventure and local flavor, especially if you’re curious about tequila or enjoy outdoor thrills.
$85 per person
2. Shore Excursion: Buggy Tour at Punta Sur & Beach Visit
Coming in at number 2, the Buggy Tour at Punta Sur & Beach Visit is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see Cozumel’s highlights while enjoying some leisure moments. For $143 per person, this 6-hour tour starts with a scenic 30-minute drive in a sturdy buggy, taking you through the lush landscapes of the island. You’ll visit Punta Sur Park, where the dramatic cliffs and lighthouse offer stunning views, plus opportunities to spot local wildlife.
The tour also includes a stop at a hidden beach—far from the crowds—where you can relax, swim, or snorkel in clear waters. After some beach time, the itinerary continues with a visit to El Cedral, a traditional village that provides a glimpse into local life. The tour ends with a quick off-road dash back to the port. Many travelers appreciate the balance of outdoor exploration, cultural stops, and beach relaxation, with the overall experience being described as “a full, varied day that didn’t feel rushed.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a comprehensive tour combining scenery, cultural spots, and downtime at a quiet beach.
$143 per person
3. Shore Excursion: Buggy Tour with Mayan Ruins & Beach Time
The third entry, the Buggy Tour with Mayan Ruins & Beach Time, offers a well-rounded look at Cozumel’s history and natural beauty. For $143 per person, it’s a 6-hour journey that begins with a quick ride in a Jeep or SUV to the San Gervasio ruins, once a sacred site for the Mayans. Here, you’ll get a guided tour and learn about the significance of the site before heading back into the island’s lush interior.
Next, the tour takes you to Jade Cavern for swimming and off-road adventures, then to Playa Uvas, where you can enjoy a delicious Mexican lunch, relax on the beach, and snorkel in the Caribbean Sea. The combination of cultural, historical, and aquatic activities makes this tour appealing to history buffs and water lovers alike. Reviewers often mention how the combination of ruins and beach makes it feel like two trips in one day—”a perfect mix for my family with kids.” The included lunch is a good bonus for the overall value.
Bottom Line: Great choice for those interested in Mayan history and a relaxed beach experience with some snorkeling.
$143 per person
4. Shore Excursion: Cozumel Island Buggy Tour & Beach Visit
If you’re after a lively exploration, our fourth pick is the Cozumel Island Buggy Tour & Beach Visit for $116 per person. This 5-hour tour kicks off with a 30-minute drive in a rugged Jeep or SUV, weaving through scenic coastlines and inland trails. The tour includes time at a less-touristy beach, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on discovering lesser-known beaches, away from the busy cruise port spots, along with cultural stops. The tour finishes with a relaxed lunch and more beach time. Travelers often say it feels like a personalized day out, with plenty of freedom to explore or chill by the water. The combination of driving, swimming, and local culture offers good value, especially if you’re looking for flexibility.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want to see beautiful beaches and enjoy a flexible, adventure-filled day without the crowds.
$116 per person
5. Shore Excursion: Cozumel Island Jeep Tour with Beach Visit
Number 5 on our list, the Cozumel Island Jeep Tour with Beach Visit offers a compact 5-hour escape designed for lovers of scenic drives and relaxing shores. For $116 per person, you’ll get a Jeep or SUV ride along the island’s coast and into its lush interior, with stops at secluded beaches perfect for swimming and picture-taking.
The tour emphasizes visiting quiet beaches, where you can enjoy a delicious Mexican lunch and snorkel in turquoise waters. The flexible itinerary allows you to combine culture, culture, and beach time, making it ideal for travelers short on time but wanting a full experience. Reviewers note the tour’s excellent pace and the chance to escape the tourist spots for local beaches.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a quick yet thorough tour with beach, scenic views, and cultural stops.
$116 per person
6. Shore Excursion: Savor Cozumel with Tacos, Beer & Mezcal
Finally, for a culinary adventure, the Savor Cozumel with Tacos, Beer & Mezcal is perfect at just 2.5 hours and $116 per person. This experience begins at Señor Frog’s, where you’ll walk to a nearby brewery for a guided beer tasting, sampling craft beers and learning about their brewing process. Then, you continue on foot to La Mezcalteca for tasting premium mezcals and enjoying local snacks and a gourmet taco menu.
This tour is a laid-back way to indulge in Cozumel’s flavors without leaving the port area. Reviewers find it “a fun, flavorful way to experience local foods and spirits,” and it’s especially good for travelers who want to combine tasting with a relaxed walk around town.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking to explore Cozumel’s culinary scene with minimal hassle and plenty of flavor.
$116 per person
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion for You
Choosing between these options depends on your travel style. If you crave adventure and learning about spirits, the ATV Jade Cavern & Tequila Tasting is hard to beat. For a blend of scenery, culture, and relaxation, the Buggy Tour at Punta Sur & Beach offers a well-rounded day. If history and beach time are your priorities, the Buggy Tour with Mayan Ruins combines both.
On a tighter schedule, the culinary-focused Savor Cozumel experience provides a delicious, laid-back option. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer tours with shorter durations and fewer extras, while those looking for a full day of activity will find plenty of options above.
Remember, booking early can secure your spot, especially in peak cruise seasons. Consider your interests—whether it’s history, adventure, or food—and match them with the tour that fits your style best.
Final Thoughts
Cozumel offers a versatile set of shore excursions that can cater to just about every type of traveler. For the adventurous, the ATV jungle and tequila tasting tour delivers excitement and local flavor. For those who want a mix of culture and relaxation, the buggy and beach tours provide a balanced experience. And for food lovers, savoring tacos and mezcal makes for a memorable, flavorful afternoon.
No matter which you pick, these tours showcase what makes Cozumel special—its natural beauty, rich history, and lively culture. To ensure you get your preferred experience, it’s wise to book early and plan according to your interests, fitness level, and available time. With a little planning, your time in Cozumel will be a highlight of your cruise.
Enjoy your trip and remember, the best adventures come from exploring what excites you. Happy cruising!