Cozumel

Cozumel is a Mexican island and municipality located in the Caribbean Sea off the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It is part of the state of Quintana Roo. The island is approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) long and 16 kilometers (10 miles) wide, making it the third-largest territory of Mexico in the Atlantic. Cozumel is situated a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen.

The island is renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, which are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest in the world. This makes Cozumel a premier destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Popular dive sites include Palancar Reef, Columbia Reef, and El Cielo, known for their diverse marine life and clear waters.

The main settlement and port on Cozumel is San Miguel de Cozumel. This town serves as the island's economic and cultural center, featuring numerous shops, restaurants, and hotels catering to tourists. Cruise ships frequently dock at Cozumel, making it one of the busiest cruise ports in the Caribbean.

Historically, Cozumel was an important Mayan center, with evidence of ancient settlements and ruins, such as San Gervasio. The island's name is believed to derive from the Mayan word "Cuzamil," meaning "place of the swallows." Today, tourism is the primary industry, drawing visitors for its natural beauty and recreational activities. The island is also home to a protected natural area, the Cozumel National Marine Park, dedicated to preserving its delicate ecosystem.