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Not so long ago, Cozumel’s already low-key nightlife shut down by midnight, perhaps thanks to the many dive excursions leaving at the crack of dawn. The cruise-ship passengers mobbing the bars seemed to drink enough for the whole island, and the rowdiest action sometimes took place in the afternoon, when mojito-slinging revelers pulled out the stops before reboarding. These days, visitors staying up late will be rewarded by a thriving live music scene at haunts that are frequented by locals and tourists alike. Many remain open to 4 am. Even if you’re not a night a night owl, you’ll find excellent salsa, jazz, acoustic, and rock bands playing downtown at places like Wet Wendy’s and Viva Mexico. Money Bar Beach Club has a live band Friday and Saturday around sunset with happy hour specials. As an alternative, do like the locals and head for the zócalo (main square) to hear mariachis and Caribbean-style bands on Sunday evenings from 8 to 10.
On the northwest corner of the square, this watering hole draws cruise-ship crowds by day and vacationers staying on the island at night. Expect frozen daiquiris, ice-cold beers, and blaring rock at tourist prices. You'll find a second location at the Puerta Maya cruise terminal.
This reggae bar serves deep-dish pizza that gets rave reviews, and the Mexican-inspired meals provide something for every palate.
The Animal House ambience at Señor Frog's at night includes loud music and a bar-dancing, bead-throwing, balloon-hat-wearing, anything-goes drinking scene. During the day, the pub grub is better than you'd expect, the drinks are flowing, and the waiters are always entertaining. You'll find two locations here, near the Punta Langosta and the International cruise terminals.
