Punta Sur Eco Park, Cozumel, Mexico, 2-17-2024

A day at Punta Sur Eco Park On Cozumel Island, Mexico. Today, visited the Punta Sur Lighthouse which completed construction in 1934. The lighthouse is 85 feet tall and has 133 internal steps spiraling to the top. There are beautiful 360 degree views of the island and the ocean. At the base of the lighthouse stands the Maritime Navigation Museum which was once the home of the former lighthouse keepers.

Punta Sur Eco Park

The old ruins of another former lighthouse are just steps away. We also saw the ancient Mayan ruins of structure that was used for maritime navigation by that ancient civilization as a marker point for seafaring vessels. We visited two different watchtowers. One of which overlooked Columbia Lagoon, and the other perched over the jungle canopy near several small cenotes. The larger of the cenotes was home to fresh water turtles, fish, dragonflies, coatis, racoons, various bird species, iguanas, at least one American Salt Water Crocodile, and more. The cenotes can be visited via a beautiful lush green and short hike on a well established dirt trail through the jungle just a short distance from the tall lighthouse.

After a short rehydration and snack break at the Del Cielo Beach Club just up the dirt road, and within the park, we took a boat ride on the Columbia Lagoon. The lagoon contains brackish water and is home to an estimated population of 300 American Salt Water Crocodiles, Ospreys, Pelicans, Spoonbills, Great Egrets, Frigate Birds, and many other shore birds, to include migrating Flamingos during certain times of the year. There are 4 different species of mangroves residing in the lagoon.

Punta Sur Eco Park is a beautiful and tranquil natural gem that should not be missed!

2-17-2024

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