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Cozumel: Mexico's Gift to Sun Worshipers Everywhere

Cozumel, Mexico, located 12 miles off the coast in the Caribbean Sea, gained fame in the 1950s when famed undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau called attention to the Palancar Reef, the second largest in the world. Cozumel's history includes Spanish invaders and early natives who referred to the island as Ah-Cuzamil-Peten (Island of Swallows). It is Mexico's largest and most populated island. If you are looking for a place to spend some active time in the Caribbean sun, Cozumel offers snorkeling, water skiing, swimming, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, bargain hunting, or visiting one of the many historical Mayan sites in the region.

Before venturing out into the sun, history buffs will want to visit the Museo de la Isla de Cozumel. The small, excellent museum has exhibits showcasing the region's endangered species, the origins of the island, and its present-day topography and plant life. There are also artifacts such as Colonial-era swords, cannons, and ship paraphernalia. Another popular activity is visiting the Mayan ruins of San Gervasio, located between the town of San Miguel and the eastern coast. The ruins were once a sacred ceremonial spot where the Mayans gathered to celebrate Ixchel, the goddess of weaving and medicine. San Miguel is the island's only town, and can be explored easily on foot. Bargain hunters will want to check out the town's center square where vendors sell every trinket imaginable.

Cozumel is Mexico's premier dive destination. Scuba Diving Magazine has rated the area the #2 dive site in the Caribbean. The world famous Palancar Reef became popular after a visit by legendary undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau, who was so fond of the reef he called it the best dive destination in the world. Although there are deeper areas, most of the reef's dives take place in less than 30 feet of water, making them ideal for novice divers and snorkelers alike. Other popular areas include the Santa Rosa Reef, also famous for its relatively shallow depth, its sea life, coral, and extensive array of sponges. The San Francisco Reef, off the coast of the beach of the same name, has a huge drop-off wall, but still is in shallow water. The reef is just offshore, making the need for a boat optional.

Golfers visiting Cozumel will want to tee it up at the Cozumel Country Club, and play the new course just designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus. The course uses the local terrain in creating a difficult, yet beautiful test of golfing skill. Duffers will also want to hop in a boat and play the course at Playacar Golf Club in Playa del Carmen. Designed by Robert Von Hagge, this course is carved through the lush Mayan jungle, and also offers stunning views of the Caribbean. True golfing zealots will want to head north to Cancun and battle the links at Pok Ta Pok, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. The course incorporates Mayan ruins as a backdrop and uses the ocean as a hazard on a number of holes.

Cozumel can serve as a jumping off point for other Yucatan Peninsula attractions. Rent a charter boat and go deep-sea fishing for marlin or tuna. Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery. Shoppers can venture to Playa del Carmen and see all the shops along 5th Avenue. History and archeological lovers can venture to Chichén Itzá, a Mayan city founded in 445 AD. However you choose to spend your Cozumel vacation, you will be rewarded with memories of the Caribbean that will last a lifetime.