Punta Sur, Cozumel (Part 2)

The Mayan ruin in the photo above is entitled El Carocal which in Spanish means spiral, like the conch shell. This relic located on Punta Sur, the southern most tip of the island of Cozumel, is located to catch the wind through the hole in the tower and make the same sound as blowing through a conch shell. This sound would warn sailors of the tip of the island, as traveling to Cozumel from the mainland was a coming of age pilgrimage for young or pregnant Mayan women. The island was know for promoting fertility.

Not far from the ancient "lighthouse" is a more modern, yet historic lighthouse. Housing a maritime museum at its base, visitors may climb the stairs and crawl through the doorway to get a view from the top.

Before heading to the white sandy beach of Punta Sur, one can take a siesta in a forest of hammocks.

The husband made his way to the top of the lighthouse as you can see in the photo above.

There is also a tower overlooking the fresh water/salt water tidal lagoon which is the home for crocodiles. Due to the fragility of the tower, only ten guests are allowed to climb at a time. The boy made his way to the top for the photo above.

Punta Sur, Cozumel (Part 1)

On the southern most tip of the island of Cozumel is Punta Sur eco-park. After entering the park and meandering the one lane road, you can see the waves change from giant crashers to lulling on the soft, white, sandy beach.

The water beckons!

Shells are in large supply as are water sports, including snorkeling. The world's second largest reef is within snorkeling distance, and while the boy and I frolicked at the beach, the husband snorkeled his way to the reef and shot some amazing underwater photos. (see below)

There is more to see at Punta Sur than the just the beach. Mayan ruins, a historic lighthouse, and museum are near the entrance to the park.

While snorkeling to the reef, the water temperature changes from warm to cold as an underground spring is nearby.

Another great underwater shot!