Naturally, water is the big attraction for kids in Cozumel. Snorkeling in warm, crystal waters can't be beat, especially for older kids who are ready for a little more adventure; however, kids come in all ages and have different tastes, so here are some other kid-pleasing activities to consider while in the Cozumel area.

Hire a taxi for a day or half day (around $10 per hour*) and tour the island. First, skitter to the top of the lighthouse for a spectacular view from Punta Celerain on the southern tip of the island (keeper will welcome a tip). Older kids might enjoy using their Spanish on the taxi driver and experimenting with their camera skills.

Continue north on the same road to the rock jungle, and beach-laden eastern side of the island. The crashing waves and undertow make it too dangerous to swim, but sea view restaurants along this otherwise uninhabited stretch serve burgers, fries and seafood-great time to break for an "American-style" lunch.

Cozumel's abundant bird life is visible all along this eastern side, but for a closer view, continue on until the paved road turns inland. Leave the car and steal quietly on the sand-paved road. Lucky visitors may spot two birds found only on Cozumel-the Cozumel vireo with its gold cheeks and sides, and the black-and white-breasted Cozumel thrasher. It's amazing how many kids love bird watching, especially when they spot a rare bird.

Continue on the paved road, inland to the low-rise cluster of ruins left by the Maya at the Zona Archaeologica de San Gervasio. (Entrance $2.50; children under 12 free.) This is great opportunity to give your kids a firsthand look at cultural history.

From there, continue to the town of San Miguel for a selection of restaurants and shops. Locally made hammocks and fine hand-woven Panama-style hats are good buys-what kid doesn't like a hammock. At the indoor Museo de Cozumel (admission $1.75), children and adults alike ponder the large coral exhibit and tales of pirates and hurricanes.

Xcaret, six miles south of Playa del Carmen, is a 250-acre "Eco-Archaeological Park," that's part tropical zoo and part beach-lined natural water park in a jungle setting. Kids will enjoy close viewing of Yucatan's tropical birds in a large breeding aviary; colorful fish in the tropical aquarium; sea turtles in all stages of growth; crocodiles; the butterfly pavilion, jaguars and cougars lounging in their natural habitat. There are several restaurants, along with neat places for snorkeling. You can rent or provide your own gear. This is a commercial venture, so it is not cheap. Adult admission, $39; children ages 5 and up, $25; children ages 4 and under, free.

Tips for Traveling with Children in Mexico:

Purified bottled water, chips, cookies, crackers, etc., and disposable diapers are easily found in drug and grocery stores, and often in hotel sundry shops. For the toddler, tote a portable stroller. Pack plenty of sun lotion and bug repellent; these are expensive when available. Upscale hotels often provide children's activities from December through Easter. Snorkeling equipment is readily available ($5 – $15 a day). Ruin climbing requires attention to narrow steps and irregular stones.

*Prices are approximate