Welcome to the ultimate guide to Cozumel nightlife and partying! This beautiful Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea is a popular paradise for beach lovers, scuba divers, and snorkelers. While nightlife is not something that comes to mind when one thinks of Cozumel (that’s really reserved for Playa Del Carmen and Cancun) you can still find plenty of places to party at night here.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore where to party, the cost of partying, the best bars and nightclubs, and provide essential safety tips and advice to ensure a fun and unforgettable experience in Cozumel. So, let’s dive right in!
Where to Party in Cozumel
Cozumel is a small island, so you’re only going to find pretty much one nightlife area, and that’s in the downtown area of San Miguel. Here, you’ll find a few of bars, clubs, and restaurants which should give you enough to choose from. You’ll also find beach bars and clubs scattered around the island. The following are some of the best areas and streets to explore for a night out:
- Avenida Rafael E. Melgar: This waterfront promenade is lined with bars and restaurants where you can enjoy drinks with a view. It’s the perfect spot to start your evening and catch a beautiful sunset before hitting the clubs.
- Plaza Central: Located in the heart of San Miguel, this bustling square is surrounded by many bars and clubs. It’s an excellent place to grab a drink, people-watch, and feel the energy of Cozumel’s nightlife.
- Calle 1 Sur and Calle 3 Sur: These parallel streets are home to several popular bars and clubs. Be sure to explore these streets to experience authentic local Cozumel nightlife.
Cozumel Nightlife & Safety Tips
While Cozumel is generally a safe destination, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your night out is enjoyable and worry-free. Here are some safety tips and advice to keep in mind:
- Stay in well-lit and busy areas: Stick to the main streets and avoid wandering into dark alleys or deserted areas.
- Keep your belongings secure: Carry a small crossbody bag or money belt to keep your valuables safe, and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
- Moderate your alcohol intake: It’s essential to know your limits and avoid overindulging in alcohol. Stay hydrated and pace yourself throughout the evening.
- Use reputable transportation: Use only authorized taxis or rideshare services like Uber to travel between your accommodation and nightlife venues. Avoid accepting rides from strangers.
- Travel in groups: It’s always safer to explore the nightlife with friends or other travelers. If you’re traveling solo, consider joining a guided bar crawl or connecting with other visitors through travel apps or hostels.
Cost of Partying in Cozumel
The cost of partying in Cozumel can vary depending on your preferences and the venues you choose. It’s very similar to the costs in Playa Del Carmen or other beach towns in Mexico. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay to enjoy the Cozumel nightlife:
- Drinks: Beers usually cost between $2-$4, while cocktails and mixed drinks range from $5-$10. Some venues offer happy hour specials, which can help you save money on drinks.
- Cover charges: Most bars in Cozumel do not have cover charges, while nightclubs may charge between $5-$15 for entry, depending on the night and the event.
- Transportation: Taxi fares within San Miguel typically range from $3-$8.
- Tipping: It’s customary to tip bartenders and servers 10-20% of your bill in all of Mexico.
Best Bars in Cozumel
Cozumel offers a variety of bars to suit every taste, from laid-back beach bars to sophisticated cocktail lounges. Here are some of the best bars in Cozumel:
Wet Wendy’s Margarita House
Famous for its colossal frozen margaritas and vibrant ambiance, Wet Wendy’s is an essential stop for those seeking a rejuvenating cocktail on a balmy Cozumel night. Wet Wendy’s features live salsa every Wednesday, accompanied by a dynamic lineup of genuine jazz, comedy shows, rock bands, and exclusive events. Cozumel’s nightlife scene reaches its pinnacle at this bustling hotspot!
Money Bar Beach Club
With its prime location overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Money Bar offers a relaxing setting to enjoy drinks, live music, and delicious food. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling, and they have a 2-for-1 happy hour deal!
No Name Bar
Located at the Barracuda Hotel, this laid-back beach bar offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for watching the sunset with a cold beer in hand.
Thirsty Cougar
Thirsty Cougar is a fantastic expat and local bar situated in Cozumel’s port area. As a regular patron for over a decade, I can attest to its exceptional food and wonderful people. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by live bands performing on numerous nights each week.
With attentive staff, reasonable prices, and a menu offering classic bar fare, Thirsty Cougar’s blend of expats and locals makes for a truly unique and enjoyable experience.
Coconuts Bar & Grill
Coconuts Bar and Grill stands out as a top tourist attraction and one of Cozumel’s premier bars. Nestled on a cliff on the eastern side of the island, it boasts awe-inspiring ocean views below. The vibrant and quirky island-themed decor creates a lively atmosphere brimming with enjoyment and enthusiasm for its guests.
The enticing seafood menu, coupled with delightful margaritas and beverages, is guaranteed to get you in the vacation spirit. After all, who hasn’t daydreamed of relishing a sunny beachside retreat while savoring the finest ceviches in town?
Mezcalito’s Beach Bar
Mezcalito’s embodies everything you’d expect from a quintessential beach bar in Cozumel. Situated on the island’s east side, this beachfront bar and restaurant exude a refreshing ambiance, surrounded by pristine white sands and striking blue waters.
The establishment’s wooden swings and comfy hammocks are particularly popular among visitors. Indulging in Mezcalito’s tacos, shrimp, and margaritas is guaranteed to get you into the vacation spirit. It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic summer spot! The tranquil and unspoiled setting is further enhanced by the annual arrival of turtles laying their eggs on the beach.
Best Nightclubs
When it comes to dancing the night away, Cozumel has a few nightclubs that cater to different musical tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best nightclubs in Cozumel:
Buccanos Beachclub
Buccanos caters not only to the nightlife aspect of tourism but also serves as a comprehensive daytime destination, offering a plethora of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy a shimmering pool, beach access, kayaking, jet-skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling. Situated on the northern shore, Buccanos boasts a top-notch restaurant and bar, serving delectable, fresh seafood cuisine.
Skillfully blending contemporary and traditional elements in both cuisine and decor, Buccanos provides an engaging and delightful mix of entertainment and enjoyment. The unforgettable ambiance created by its exquisite nighttime lighting ensures that Buccanos at night is an experience you’ll cherish for years to come.
Hemingway Lounge & Nightclub
Hemingway is a popular Cozumel nightlife spot situated along the waterfront. During the day, it serves as a laid-back seaside restaurant, but as the Cozumel sun sets, it transforms into a lively venue hosting live music nights.
The late-night dance sessions at Hemingway attract a diverse crowd, including tourists, locals, and numerous young dive masters, all coming together for some playful fun. With popular DJs spinning great dance music from various genres, Hemingway guarantees a memorable night out.
Senor Frog’s
Yes – there’s a Senor Frog’s in Cozumel also. This famous chain of party venues is known for its wild atmosphere, themed nights, and DJs spinning a mix of pop, dance, and Latin tunes.
El Cielo Hookah Bar
El Cielo Hookah Bar offers a fantastic spot to enjoy hookah, savor drinks, and appreciate music. Located in Cozumel’s outskirts, away from the bustling downtown area, this venue provides a unique experience. While the service is excellent and the hookah experience is top-notch, the flavor options are somewhat limited. With its vibrant, loud music, El Cielo particularly appeals to a younger crowd.
Cozumel Nightlife Conclusion
The Cozumel nightlife scene offers something for everyone, from beach bars with stunning ocean views to energetic nightclubs where you can dance until the early hours of the morning. With this guide to Cozumel’s nightlife and party scene, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your evenings on this beautiful Caribbean island. Remember to follow our safety tips and advice to ensure a fun and unforgettable experience. So, get ready to unwind, dance, and make lasting memories in Cozumel!