Island Shakers: Cozumel Mixology & Taco Tour

Introducing the Island Shakers: Cozumel Mixology & Taco Tour

If you’re looking for a taste-focused way to experience Cozumel beyond the usual beach loungers and snorkeling, the Island Shakers: Cozumel Mixology & Taco Tour might just be what you need. Offered by Next Experience Travel, this 3.5-hour adventure aims to introduce you to the island’s culinary craft scene — think craft beers, mezcal, and gourmet tacos — all woven into a relaxed, social setting.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances learning and tasting. You’ll get the chance to see how locally brewed beers and spirits are made, and then enjoy some seriously good tacos paired with mezcal. That’s the kind of authentic, flavorful experience that can make a trip memorable. Also, the tour’s flexible, with free cancellation and a manageable price point of just under $100 per person.

Of course, there’s a couple of things to keep in mind. Since transportation between stops isn’t included and involves walking about four blocks, it might not be ideal if you have mobility concerns or are eager for a more all-inclusive experience. Still, for those who enjoy casual, food and drink-focused outings, this could be just the right way to spend an afternoon in Cozumel. It’s especially suited for travelers who love discovering local craft beverages and savoring authentic tastes.

Key Points

• Taste and learn: This tour combines craft brewing, mezcal tasting, and gourmet tacos for a well-rounded culinary experience.
• Authentic focus: You’ll visit the only distillery in Cozumel, gaining insight into craft rum and gin production.
• Pairings are curated: Expect four seasonal tacos, four beers, and three mezcals, along with a local dessert.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
• Walking involved: Facilities are about four blocks apart, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.
• Price point: At around $100, it offers a good value for those interested in local food and drink culture.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

When you sign up for the Island Shakers tour, you’re in for a laid-back but enriching experience that highlights Cozumel’s craft beverage scene. It all kicks off at the island’s first and only distillery, where you’ll learn how they craft rum and gin. The guide and bartenders are there to help you shake up your own cocktails, so it’s interactive rather than just a tasting.

The real highlight here is the chance to taste signature cocktails and learn about the spirits’ history and production. This hands-on element makes the experience more personal and memorable. Plus, tasting the spirits with local snacks adds another layer to the experience—kind of like a mini culinary lesson.

Next, you’ll visit Punta Sur Brewery, where you’ll sample four local craft beers paired with fresh guacamole. This part is a favorite for many because of the variety and the chance to see how Cozumel’s craft beer scene is developing. It’s a good way to get a sense of local flavor beyond the typical tourist fare.

The final stop is at Mezcalteca, where you’ll enjoy three different mezcals paired with four seasonal tacos—each crafted with fresh, local ingredients. The tacos are described as gourmet, and the pairings aim to enhance the spirit’s flavors. The tour wraps up with a sweet note, featuring a local dessert and a special sweet mezcal.

What to Expect at Each Stop

The Distillery — You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how craft spirits are made, with tastings and the opportunity to make your own cocktails. It’s a lively, interactive start that sets the tone for the rest of the tour.

Punta Sur Brewery — Here, you’ll sample four 4oz beers, each with unique characteristics, paired with guacamole. It’s a laid-back stop that emphasizes local brewing talent and lets you try several options without feeling overwhelmed.

Mezcalteca — The final part of the tour focuses on gourmet tacos paired with three mezcals. The tasting includes a sweet mezcal with a local dessert, a perfect way to end on a sweet and spirited note. Expect a more refined, culinary experience here, with tacos crafted from fresh ingredients and tailored flavor pairings.

How It All Comes Together

For about 3.5 hours, you’ll be moving between different venues, sampling, learning, and enjoying. The group size is capped at 80, but typically, you’ll find it’s a manageable number to keep things intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention.

The tours are scheduled to start at noon, perfect for those who want a leisurely midday activity. Keep in mind that transportation between the stops is on foot, so comfortable shoes are a good idea. The walk is about four blocks, which isn’t much but can add up if you’re not used to walking around in the heat.

Value and Practicality

At roughly $100, the price includes all the tastings — four beers, three mezcals, four tacos, and a dessert — plus the behind-the-scenes looks and guided instruction. That’s a fair deal considering the quality of the experiences and the focus on authentic local flavors.

The fact that transportation isn’t included means you’ll need to plan your arrival and departure, but the meeting point is accessible via public transportation or taxi. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy is a plus, especially if your plans are still a bit up in the air.

What Reviewers Say (Based on Available Feedback)

While this tour has yet to gather a lot of reviews, the ones on similar experiences like craft beer and tequila tastings in other locations tend to highlight enjoyable, relaxed atmosphere combined with friendly guides. The description mentions “enjoy four seasonal tacos…crafted with local ingredients,” which suggests a focus on quality and authenticity.

Some reviewers might find the walking between stops a minor inconvenience, especially if they prefer a more chauffeur-driven experience or have mobility concerns. But most seem to appreciate the chance to explore Cozumel’s local craft scene without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves exploring local food and drink, this tour offers a genuine taste of Cozumel’s craft beverage scene. It’s a good fit for adults who enjoy casual, social experiences centered around tasting and learning. The interactive cocktail-making component also adds a fun twist.

However, if you’re craving a more traditional sightseeing tour or have mobility limitations, it might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re traveling with children, this tour isn’t tailored for families, given the alcohol tastings involved.

All in all, this experience excels for travelers who want to sample local flavors, learn about spirits and beer production, and enjoy a relaxed, engaging afternoon in Cozumel.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation between stops is on foot, covering about four blocks. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 12:00 pm, making it ideal for midday plans.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, guests must be 18 or older to consume alcohol, which is a central part of this tour.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get a tour of the distillery, four beers, three mezcals, four tacos, and a local dessert. Tastings are all included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Not really; it’s focused on alcohol tastings, so it’s best suited for adults.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking between stops, and casual clothes appropriate for warm weather.

In Closing

The Island Shakers: Cozumel Mixology & Taco Tour offers a lively, flavorful peek into the island’s craft beverage scene, combined with some seriously good tacos. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy tasting, learning, and socializing in a relaxed setting. While it’s not a sightseeing extravaganza and involves a bit of walking, the experience is rich in local flavors and interactive fun.

If you’re looking for a way to savor Cozumel’s culinary talents beyond the beaches and snorkel trips, this tour could be a charming choice. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a lively afternoon of tasting and talking spirits, beers, and tacos.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone eager to try something different, the Island Shakers tour is worth considering for a tastefully authentic Cozumel experience.