Cozumel is rich in history and natural wonders. Popular destinations include ancient Mayan temples on the north side of the Island; the sanctuary to Ix- Chel -the fertility goddess- in San Gervasio and the Museum of the Island of Cozumel, with its colorful
displays of underwater reefs and other Island treasures. At El Cedral, on the south side of the Island, the oldest Maya structure on Cozumel built in A.D. 800 can be found. Nearby a towering lighthouse at Punta Sur offers a 360-degree view of the Island.
Cozumel is habitat to many nature reserves: the Cozumel Marine Reef National Park, Chankanaab Park and Lagoon, and Punta Sur. Botanical gardens at Chankanaab Park display 350 different types of tropical plants from more than 20 countries. Another attraction
is the dolphin aquarium, treating visitors to a close-encounter with playful dolphins. Punta Sur is a new eco-tourist park for visitors interested in learning about the Island's native flora and fauna. Encircling a region known as Colombia Lagoon, Punta Sur
is a unique setting of mangrove jungles, white sandy beaches and reef formations. The Park's information center allows visitors to watch a 20-minute video and learn about different eco-systems, environment and native birds, turtles, alligators, fish and coral
in the Park. At the information center, visitors can rent electric bikes to explore Punta Sur on their own.