Museums Isla Mujeres Mexico - Attractions

This incredible reserve is also known as the Island of the Birds. Covering an area of 230 hectares, Isla Contoy is the refuge for about 100 species of birds. Contoy means "pelican" in Mayan, and this is the most abundant species. They live together with other fauna such as turtles, reptiles and small mammals. Contoy Island is surrounded by the waters of the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. There is a small museum and a five-story lighthouse with a beautiful view. To preserve the balance of the reserve, only a limited number of visitors are allowed in at any one time.

Housed in what was once Cozumel's first luxury hotel, this museum has exhibits on the history and natural environment of the island. Displays on the ground floor explain Cozumel's ecosystems including the mangroves and coral reefs as well as local conservation issues. Upstairs, ancient artifacts found at local Mayan ruins are juxtaposed with relics of the Conquistadors. Native pottery and stone tools augment this historical exhibit. Another presentation on the second floor examines Cozumel's cultural and economic development throughout the 20th century. The museum also has the excellent Del Museo cafe. Guided tours are available.

This ancient lighthouse has been refurbished and is now the new navigational museum located in the Parque Punta Sur nature reserve. A park bus will transport you free of charge to the museum, or you can walk along the untamed beach to arrive at the southernmost point of the island where the lighthouse is located. The view from the top of the lighthouse is simply stunning.

Located south of San Miguel, this park offers a combination of history, archeology and recreation. There is excellent snorkeling and diving at the underwater park where you can spot sunken ships, anchors, statues and tons of tropical fish. You can also swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery or find out more about Maya ruins at the Parque Arqueologico. The museum has exhibits on marine life, while the botanical garden has more than 450 species of regional plants. Children of all ages will enjoy the sea lion park and its daily shows.

Located at the southernmost tip of Cozumel, this 247-acre nature reserve opened in 1999. Its focus is on conservation of local flora and fauna, so no cars are allowed into the park. If you're lucky you may spot crocodiles, egrets, foxes, herons, iguanas and other wildlife. You can also visit the Mayan ruin El Caracol and the navigational museum in the Punta Celerain Lighthouse. The Balneario el Caracol restaurant serves excellent meals and rents out snorkel gear. The beach here is quite pristine. Admission is USD10, free after 3p.

This combination musical museum and store has a collection of instruments from Mexico, Central and South America. Owners Manina and Alejandro Alvirde estimate there are 784 instruments from 37 countries in their collection including ancient Mayan flutes, Spanish guitars and an assortment of other intriguing instruments. The shop sells hand made duplicates of the originals, handcrafted items and music of the Maya and other indigenous cultures.