Avoid traveling to Cozumel by cruise ship if it is economically feasible for you to do so. Cruise ships are one of the least sustainable forms of travel and due to the lack of present regulations, they are causing irreversible harm to coral reefs. If flying directly into Cozumel is too expensive, consider flying into Cancun. Take the Ultramar ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. The Winjet ferry is owned by one of the wealthy families with a monopoly on the island, so opt to take Ultramar.

Avoid staying in hotels, condos, or Airbnbs directly on the water if possible or do your research to know the environmental standards of the buildings. Many hotels or rentals within the marine park and directly on the coastline continue to have poor wastewater management.

When snorkeling, diving, or swimming, do not wear sunscreen. Sunscreen is harmful to coral reefs because it blocks UV light which is what corals need to grow. Even "reef-safe" sunscreen is not truly reef-safe as it is still blocking UV from corals. Do not touch any marine life or corals. Maintain proper buoyancy when scuba diving and snorkeling and stay at least 6 feet above the reef at all times to avoid contact.

Volunteer your time to Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program. CCRRP offers classes to learn how to plant and restore corals. Once you have taken the course, you can go work on any of their coral platforms throughout the rest of your vacation whenever you have free time.

Donate to local advocacy groups such as No Al Cuatro Muelle. No Al Cuatro Muelle has significant legal fees for their injunction to fight the construction of the fourth pier and needs all the help they can get to continue fighting.

Be mindful of your fresh water consumption. Take short showers and limit the overuse of fresh water.

Make an effort to contribute to the local economy. Ask your taxi driver for restaurant recommendations and make an effort to not just eat within the waterfront area. Hire local guides when visiting the Maya ruins or going on excursions around the island.

Learn about the culture and history of Cozumel if you are visiting. The Museo de la Isla de Cozumel is a great resource downtown to begin learning about the island.