Cozumel

Small temples are scattered around the island, with the largest concentration at San Gervasio, midway between central Cozumel and its east coast. — Concierge

The photos of the island's transformation over the 20th and 21st centuries are especially fascinating. — Fodor's

Today it's a farming community with small, well-tended houses and gardens. — Fodor's

Poised on a private northern beach and surrounded by turquoise waters, this place raises Caribbean pearl oysters. — Fodor's

This gorgeous ecological reserve includes the Columbia Lagoon. A number of crocodiles make the lagoon their home, so swimming is not only a bad idea, it’s not allowed. — Frommer's

This theme park purports to show you the country's archaeological sites, important architectural landmarks, and cultures, without leaving Cozumel. — Fodor's

The price of admission here includes access to a sea lion show, a nice beach and pool, a botanical garden with 400 tropical plant species. — Lonely Planet

Sheltered by an offshore reef, this half-moon cove is the first popular swimming area as you drive north on the coastal road. — Fodor's

About 1 km (½ mile) to the north of Playa San Martín the island road turns hilly and offers panoramic ocean views. — Fodor's

Surfers, kiteboarders, and boogie boarders have made Punta Morena one of their official hangouts—and for good reason: it has great waves and a restaurant. — Fodor's

The winds can be strong here, so it's popular with kiteboarders. — Fodor's

South of the resorts, down a rutted road and way off the beaten path, lies serene Playa Palancar—a long, walkable beach with hammocks hanging under coconut palms. — Fodor's

Home to one of the largest heated pools on the island. — Fodor's

A series of mini-shops in a restored colonial building, this market has the highest quality artisan crafts, clothing, tabletop goods, ceramics, and toys from throughout Mexico. — Travel + Leisure

Clear Lounge bills itself as the world's first underwater oxygen bar, and it's among one of many unique experiences you can have while visiting Cozumel. — Afar Magazine

The various corals are an underwater habitat for fish, turtles and sharks, and it's little wonder that the reef draws divers from around the world to explore its depths. — Afar Magazine

This busy but inviting 5-km (3-mile) expanse of sand is among the longest and finest on Cozumel. — Fodor's

This 247-acre national preserve is a protected habitat for numerous birds and animals, including crocodiles, flamingos, egrets, and herons. — Fodor's

Off Punta Norte on the northwest coast, private Isla de Pasión has one of Cozumel's loveliest beaches. Most guests arrive on organized excursions. — Fodor's