Cozumel

Otherwise known as “Jack” Island

By Claudine Hébert, Golf and Business Journalist

Fifty years ago, Jacques Cousteau gave diving enthusiasts their first glimpse into the beauty of the Island of Cozumel. Fast-forward half a century and now another Jack—Jack Nicklaus, to be precise—has helped golfers get acquainted with this destination along the Mexican coast, accessible by direct flight.

Having already been graced with the official title of National Park, the Island of Cozumel has now availed itself of a beautiful golf course that meets every standard required for Audubon certification, the first of its kind in Mexico. This sanctuary, sculpted in the midst of the jungle, leads golfers along a path dotted with some sixty sand traps. A glorious little kingdom lined with mangroves and lagoons where iguanas, blue crabs, turtles (and occasionally a few crocodiles!) can be seen sunbathing.

Offered as part of a package that includes a stay at the quaint Melia Cozumel Golf Hotel, with several ocean-view rooms, this unlimited golfing destination is one of the best deals in the Caribbean.