Cozumel started becoming a popular Mexican vacation destination in the 1960s and has continued to grow in popularity since. Now, it has finally achieved one of the most coveted distinctions in Mexico by being named a Magical Town (Pueblo Mágico), a title granted to villages that have significant cultural, historical, or natural value.

This title is granted by the Mexican government in a program that began in 2001. Villages are chosen because they represent authenticity and Mexican culture, because they have an abundance of natural attractions, or because of their rich history and traditions.

Currently, there are only around 132 Magical Towns in all of Mexico. To be designated as such, the destination must have 5,000 or more residents, an application has to be filed, and a plan for the development of tourism must be made and agreed upon. After forming a Pueblo Mágico committee to deal with all of the steps to get Magical Town status, that committee must continue with and maintain the tourism development plan, to draw in tourists from all over the world.

In Quintana Roo, there are now four Magical Towns, including Cozumel, with the other three being Tulum, Isla Mujeres, and Bacalar. The island of Cozumel, off the coast of Playa del Carmen, is mostly known for its white sand beaches and turquoise blue water, but it has much more to offer — culture, nature, great restaurants, and beautiful all-inclusive resorts and boutique hotels. It is also an extremely popular scuba diving location, thanks to its proximity to part of the Mesoamerican Reef, located at Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park.

The Secretary of Tourism of Quintana Roo, Bernardo Cueto Riestra, expressed his excitement about Cozumel becoming the next Magical Town and welcoming visitors to the destination.

He commented that they “invite all travelers to discover the treasures that Cozumel has to offer, whether it is exploring its impressive coral reefs, enjoying its traditional festivals, or savoring the delicious local cuisine, every experience in Cozumel promises to be unforgettable.”