Located just 12 miles (19 kilometers) off the Yucatan coast, Cozumel, which has commercial development on only about 5% of the island, was declared an Underwater Nature Preserve in 1972. Famous Oceanographer, Jacque Costeau, filmed one of his documentaries among the eight miles (13 kilometers) of live coral reefs, caves, tunnels and coral overhangs teeming with an incredible variety of marine life

An ancient Mayan ceremonial and commercial center, Cozumel boasts many archaeological sites scattered across the island. The best preserved and most visited, San Gervasio, includes a group of small shrines and temples honoring ix-Chel, the Mayan goddess of medicine, corn, weaving, love and fertility.

Visit the Chankanaab National Park, a shoreside natural preserve where snorkelers can explore underwater caves and reefs and a sunken ship filled with colorful marine life.