Shake It Up- Dance & Salsa Tequila Experience With Transfer

Looking for a lively escape in Cozumel that combines culinary skills, dance, and a relaxed beach day? For $83 per person, this four-hour experience offers just that—starting with hands-on salsa-making, progressing to a dance lesson, and finishing with a day at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park. Led by knowledgeable guides like Angel and Gael, this tour is perfect for travelers who want more than just the usual boat or snorkel trip.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small-group setting ensures you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete novice. Second, the combination of learning to prepare authentic Mexican salsas—like guacamole and pico de gallo—with salsa dancing creates a lively, engaging day that’s as tasty as it is fun.

A potential consideration? The tour requires participants to be able to stand and dance for up to 90 minutes, which might not suit those with mobility issues or back/neck injuries. Still, if you’re active and eager to try something different, it’s likely to be a highlight of your trip.

This tour appeals especially to food lovers, dance enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic cultural experience paired with beach relaxation. If you enjoy interactive activities and a relaxed atmosphere with friendly guides, this is a perfect fit.

Key Points

  • Authentic Mexican flavors are front and center, with a chance to learn to make popular salsas and dips.
  • Dance lessons add an energetic, fun component that keeps the day lively.
  • The small group size offers a more personalized and engaging experience.
  • Access to Playa Mia Grand Beach Park allows for flexible leisure time afterward.
  • The tour is well-rated and recommended by 97% of previous participants.
  • It offers fantastic value by combining culinary, dancing, and beach experiences in one package.

An Authentic Mix of Culinary and Dance Fun in Cozumel

When we first heard about the Shake It Up – Dance & Salsa Tequila Experience, we were intrigued. The idea of combining a Mexican salsa-making class with a salsa dance lesson sounds simple but is surprisingly effective in creating a memorable, lively day. The tour takes place at Isla Mía Roots near Playa Mia, a well-loved beach park, which means you start your adventure with a scenic drive and a chance to enjoy the Caribbean setting.

The price point of $83 might seem moderate, but when you consider what’s included—salsas tasting, quesadillas, chips, fried taquitos, and a domestic open bar—it’s good value. Plus, you’ll get guidance from friendly, skilled instructors and enjoy a day in a beautiful location. The activity runs Monday through Saturday, and the meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, making it easy to find.

Two things we love: First, the hands-on approach. You’ll learn to whip up guacamole, pico de gallo, and other Mexican dips, not just watch from afar. Second, the salsa dancing lesson is designed to be accessible, with instructors like Angel making it easy for everyone to get involved. As one reviewer put it, “Angel was a fabulous host—fun, professional, and passionate.”

However, a few travelers mentioned that the location changed unexpectedly the day before, from the beach to the city center, which disrupted plans for a beach-side experience. Fortunately, arrangements were made to return to the beach, though some had to pay for their own transportation—something to keep in mind if you’re planning around specific expectations.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy interactive activities, delicious food, and beach downtime. It’s especially ideal for those who want to try their hand at Mexican cuisine and salsa dancing in a relaxed setting.

A Detailed Look at the Day’s Itinerary

Meet and Greet at Isla Mía Roots

The adventure begins at 9:30 am, with a welcoming group size capped at 15 to ensure everyone gets attention. The meeting point is at Carr. Costera Sur km 19, close to public transport, so getting there is straightforward. The guides, including Angel and Gael, are praised for their enthusiasm and expertise, instantly making everyone comfortable.

Salsa-Making Class

Soon, you’re immersed in a culinary workshop with a chef guide. Expect to learn how to prepare authentic Mexican salsas—from the creamy, zesty guacamole to fresh pico de gallo. The small group size means plenty of hands-on guidance, and you’ll get to taste your creations along with chips and quesadillas. Several reviews highlight the deliciousness of the food and how the chefs shared secrets that made the experience stand out.

One guest remarked, “The salsa turned out to be delicious, and the class was fun,” emphasizing how approachable and tasty the process was. The tasting session allows you to savor your homemade salsas, making the experience both educational and flavorful.

Salsa Dance Lesson

Next up is a salsa dancing segment. The instructors keep it simple enough for beginners but energetic enough to get your heart pumping. Yeye, another guide, kept drinks flowing, adding to the relaxed, festive vibe. As one comment noted, “Angel did a great job teaching us how to make salsa and dance — a blast!”

While some found the 90-minute dance session short, most enjoyed the easy-to-follow instructions and the chance to laugh and try something new. The focus on fun over perfection makes it suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Relaxing at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

The day concludes with free time at Playa Mia, where guests can swim, relax, or enjoy amenities like inflatables, kayaks, or simply lounge on the sandy beach. The park’s amenities included in the package add real value, giving you flexibility to unwind after the energetic activities.

Many reviewers appreciated the flexibility—you can return to the port at your leisure, with some guides like Julio providing clear instructions for transportation.

Optional Extras and Tips

  • Be prepared for standing and dancing for up to 90 minutes—wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
  • The open bar includes local drinks like Tamarindo Margaritas, which many find delicious, but note that ID may be required.
  • If you’re interested in capturing memories, note that the tour does not include a photo package.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this tour is the authenticity—you’re not just watching a demonstration, you’re actively involved in making and tasting real Mexican salsas. Many reviews mentioned the passionate guides like Angel and Gael, who shared chef secrets and made the lessons feel personal.

“We learned so many chef secrets,” said a guest, which adds a layer of value—these skills can be recreated at home, long after your vacation.

The food is consistently praised, especially the quesadillas and salsas, which some visitors craved even after their trip. Multiple reviews highlighted how delicious and fresher-than-store-bought the homemade dips were, making this a standout culinary experience.

The dance component was equally well-loved. Guests appreciated how easy and fun it was to learn basic salsa steps, with instructors encouraging everyone to participate. The combination of food and dance creates a festive atmosphere that many described as “a blast” and “memorable”.

Notable Challenges

While overall positive, some travelers found the location change a bit disruptive, especially those expecting a beachside experience. Plus, a few wished they could have received the recipes afterward, as many found the dishes irresistible.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price, this tour packs multiple experiences into a manageable four hours. You don’t just get to learn and taste authentic Mexican salsas—you also get salsa dancing lessons and beach access, creating a full, engaging day. The inclusion of food, drinks, and amenities at Playa Mia makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a combination of culture, fun, and relaxation.

Compared to typical excursions that focus solely on water sports or sightseeing, this experience offers depth and interaction. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re food-curious or want to try your hand at dancing—two activities that invariably lead to lots of laughs and memories.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy learning new skills and participating in hands-on activities. It attracts food lovers, dance enthusiasts, and families wanting a lively, authentic experience. Because of its small-group format, it’s perfect for those who prefer a more personalized, engaging atmosphere over large, impersonal tours.

If you’re looking for a fun, interactive day that combines culinary delight with movement and ends at a beautiful beach park, this is a solid choice. Just be aware of the physical activity required, and plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from the meeting point at Carr. Costera Sur km 19 to Playa Mia Grand Beach Park, with flexible return options.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to dance?
Absolutely. The salsa lesson is designed to be easy to follow, with instructors encouraging everyone to join in and have fun.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s a domestic open bar, featuring local drinks like Tamarindo Margaritas. ID may be required for alcohol.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for standing, dancing, and enjoying the beach afterward.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All participants should be able to stand and dance for up to 90 minutes.

Are recipes provided after the class?
No, the tour does not include a recipe handout, though many guests expressed interest in obtaining them.

Is the activity suitable for pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back/neck injuries due to the physical activity involved.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Final Thoughts

The Shake It Up: Dance & Salsa Tequila Experience in Cozumel offers a lively, authentic taste of Mexican culture that’s accessible and fun for a broad range of travelers. You’ll leave with new skills, delicious memories, and great stories about your day of salsa-making, dancing, and beach relaxation.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy interactive experiences and want more than just sightseeing—who are ready to laugh, learn, and dance their way through a vibrant Caribbean day. If you value local cuisine, friendly guides, and a small-group atmosphere, this tour will deliver on all counts.

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family outing, or a solo adventure, this experience combines authentic flavor and fun, making it a standout choice for your Cozumel itinerary.