Punta Sur is the end of the road in the most literal sense. This large protected reserve covers more than a thousand hectares of dunes, mangrove, lagoon and beach at Cozumel's southern tip, a world away from the town and the cruise piers. Inside the park you can climb the Celarain lighthouse for a view over the coast, visit a small navigation and cultural museum, take a boat across the Colombia lagoon and spot crocodiles and birds from an observation tower, and swim or snorkel at a beach on the park's reef. The park also has restaurants, restrooms and showers. Because it sits on the less developed side, it feels spacious and quiet by comparison with Chankanaab. Entry is paid at the gate and, historically, the park has been open Monday to Saturday during the day, so check the current days before you go. The Viator listing here is a private buggy tour of the island that includes Punta Sur and is all-inclusive, with more than three hundred reviews.
What you see: the road down the island passes the wide eastern coast, where waves crash on rocks and you can pull over at viewpoints and small beach bars, before reaching the park. Inside, the lighthouse and the small museum give some maritime history, the lagoon boat is relaxing, and the beach has a protected snorkeling area with sea fans. Wildlife is the real draw: crocodiles, many bird species and, in nesting season, turtles on the sand.
How to do it: a private or small-group buggy or jeep tour is the easiest way, since it handles the drive, the entry and a lunch stop in one package. The listing linked here is an all-inclusive private buggy tour, so confirm whether the park fee is bundled or paid at the gate. If you drive a rental, the road is straightforward, but plan for the distance and for gas and parking. A full day is comfortable, and half a day works if you skip the lagoon boat.
Practical advice: bring sunscreen, a hat, water, a swimsuit and insect repellent, and do not leave valuables on the beach. The east coast has strong currents and is not suitable for swimming, so stay in the designated areas. Opening days and prices change, so check them close to your date. If you are on a tight cruise schedule, choose the shorter San Gervasio and beach tour instead, and consider combining the two on a longer day for a view of the whole island.
What to expect
The experience
A day at a large coastal reserve with a lighthouse, a lagoon and beaches, most often reached on a private buggy or jeep tour.
Best time
A clear morning, when the wildlife is most active and the heat is lower.
How long
Four to six hours including the drive and a beach lunch.
Tips
Bring water, sunscreen and repellent, swim only in the designated areas and check the park's current days before you plan.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers who want nature, scenery and a quiet beach rather than a busy park.
- Families
- Great for older children who enjoy a buggy ride and wildlife spotting, though the day is long for little ones.
- Couples
- Scenic coastal drive, lighthouse views and a quiet beach lunch make for a memorable day out.
- Pair with
- San Gervasio ruins, a beach club stop, or a snorkel trip on another day.
- Time needed
- Most of a day, or a long half-day.
Good questions
What is at Punta Sur?+
A reserve with the Celarain lighthouse, a navigation museum, a lagoon with crocodile viewing, birdlife and beaches. It is at the island's southern tip.
Is it open every day?+
The park has historically operated Monday to Saturday during daylight hours, but days and prices change. Check before you go.
Can I swim at the beaches?+
Use the protected beach areas the park designates for swimming and snorkeling, and avoid the rough open coast on the east side.
Do I need a tour or can I drive myself?+
Either works. A private buggy or jeep tour bundles the driving and lunch, while a rental car or scooter gives more freedom but needs more planning.
What is the best time of year?+
The drier months from about November to April offer calmer weather, while summer is hotter and the storm season brings occasional closures.