10 Exciting Items to Purchase While Shopping in Cozumel

Whether you’re a shopping enthusiast or just on the hunt for unique souvenirs and gifts, Cozumel offers a wealth of retail therapy options during your cruise. The shopping experience here is among the finest in the Caribbean, featuring a diverse range of stores, markets, and products to explore.

To simplify your shopping experience, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 items to include on your Cozumel shopping list. The stores are conveniently located, from the port shops at Punta Langosta Pier to Plaza Del Sol in the town center. Remember, many vendors prefer cash and may impose hefty fees for credit card transactions, so be sure to bring both US dollars and pesos.

1. Mexican Vanilla

Savvy cruisers often buy bottles of organic vanilla while in Cozumel, making it a fantastic gift, especially for the passionate bakers in your life. It’s renowned for its intense flavor, which is generally richer than the vanillas found in the U.S. Be sure to check the ingredient list for vanilla beans.

2. Cocoa

The Mayans revered chocolate, much like the biggest chocolate lover you know, and Cozumel offers a fantastic opportunity to dive into Mexican chocolate culture. A must-visit is The Mayan Cacao Company, where you can witness the chocolate-making process up close and enjoy a crucial tasting session before stocking up on your favorites.

3. Coral

It’s no surprise that coral is a sought-after item in Cozumel, home to the stunning Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. You’ll discover coral jewelry and souvenirs available at various price ranges across the island. However, be cautious with black coral, as it’s endangered and may be seized by customs when you return home—opt for other colors instead for a hassle-free experience.

4. Silver

Many shops in Cozumel are dedicated to sterling silver jewelry and silverware. Be on the lookout for items crafted in the silver workshops of Taxco, a small city in Mexico known for its silver production.

5. Jewelry

Whether you're seeking a distinctive local creation, a handcrafted piece, or a classic design from a well-known brand at a more affordable price than back home, Cozumel has a plethora of options. The upscale shops are typically located near the port, and you can often find information on the best deals while on your cruise or as you disembark.

6. Apparel

We’re not referring to the typical tourist t-shirts, though those are plentiful and easy to find. For a more genuine experience, look for Mayan-style embroidered cotton dresses and traditional tropical shirts called guayaberas. The Yucatan is renowned for its lace, so keep an eye out for garments featuring intricately crafted lace details. If you're planning to spend a lot of time outdoors, be sure to visit the markets for a fashionable straw hat.

7. Hammocks

A hammock serves as a fantastic memento of your time in Cozumel—not only is it lightweight and easy to pack, but using it at home can evoke vivid memories of lazy afternoons and island breezes from your cruise. Seek out handmade hammocks from smaller, local shops that specialize in selling hammocks and not much else.

8. Liquor

A bottle of Xtabentun (pronounced “ish-ta-ben-toon”) makes an excellent souvenir for those who aren’t interested in clothing and accessories. Crafted from honey, this liqueur boasts a strong anise flavor and is known to be quite potent.

9. Cooking Tools

Enjoying local cuisine is one of the delights of visiting Cozumel, but how can you bring home a taste of that experience? One excellent way is to purchase some traditional Mexican cooking tools, like a Molcajete (the Mexican mortar and pestle) or a molinillo for frothing hot chocolate. Packets of Mexican hot sauce and spices also make fantastic gifts.

10. Tech Essentials

Let’s be honest: there comes a point when you’ve snapped so many photos during your cruise that your memory card is full. Or perhaps you forgot your phone charger at home. A busy port like Cozumel is an excellent place to find these tech essentials when you're in need, as it boasts more shops than many of the smaller Caribbean island ports.