Discover Cozumel

It was nearly a half century ago when famed underwater oceanographer Jacques Cousteau happened upon Cozumel, Mexico, declaring it one of the most spectacular dive locations in the world. Much has changed since Cousteau was first enamored of this sleepy, sun-drenched oasis at the eastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. Today, the island and its unpretentious town, San Miguel, welcome 3 million cruise ship passengers annually. If pastel-colored boutiques, open-air restaurants, nearby ruins and beaches aren't enticing enough, then the world's second-largest coral reef system is minutes away.

Arrival: Hurricane Wilma was not kind to the region when she made landfall in 2005. She battered this 30 mile long, 10 mile wide haven, inflicting considerable damage; and cruise passengers were tendered ashore throughout 2006. But San Miguel's cozy, downtown core has since been revitalized, and two of its three cruise ship piers have re-opened: The International Pier, a 10-minute taxi ride to downtown San Miguel, welcomed ships last May; and the Punta Langosta Pier, centrally located in San Miguel, began hosting vessels in September 2006. A facelift of the Puerta Maya Pier may take another year to complete. Meanwhile, the island's 50 hotels, which offer a total of some 4,000 guest rooms, have rebounded after about $80 million in renovations.

Independent Sightseeing: The best beaches are on the southwestern part of the island, about a 10-minute taxi ride from the International Pier. Beach clubs such as Mr. Sanchos and Playa Uvas feature restaurants, bars and water sports.

Must-See Attractions: Some 37 dive sites teem with tropical fish, marine life and multicolored coral reefs, which often feature limestone canes and tunnels. Divers can explore the popular site of Palancar, face off with moray eels at Tormentos, plunge 120 feet into the brilliant green abyss of San Francisco or spend the day diving at Chankanaab Park, where they can swim with dolphins.

More than 30 reefs range in depth from 15 to 90 feet. Transparent waters in some locales provide divers with up to 200 feet of visibility. Contributing to the island's allure are year-round water temperatures ranging from 77 to 82 degrees. On land, passengers can find small archeological sights, including the restored ruins of Maya-Toltec at San Gervasio, near San Miguel.

Off The Beaten Path: Punta Sur Park is an ecological reserve featuring tours, a beach area, a lighthouse, a maritime museum, a small Mayan ruin and a free catamaran ride through mangroves. A visit to El Cedral, once the largest settlement in Cozumel, features the oldest Maya structure on the island. The eastern side of the island boasts many secluded beaches and rustic bars.