Renting Scooters
Renting scooters can be a fun way to explore the island, but it comes with real risks.
Roads
- The roads in Cozumel are generally in good condition, but they can be narrow and winding, especially along the coast.
- Even if you're used to a motorcycle, scooter wheels are smaller and more vulnerable to potholes.
- Traffic can be unpredictable.
- Scooter riders are particularly vulnerable to accidents, especially if they are not experienced riders.
- Many operators don't even rent helmets.
- Small dings and scratches can cost you hundreds of USD.
Consider not renting a scooter.
How to Rent a Scooter in Cozumel
You can rent scooters in town from local vendors for about $60 USD per day with insurance.
Do I need a motorcycle license?
Nope, they will totally rent you a scooter without a motorcycle license. Just a regular US driver's license is sufficient.
What's the "scam?"
It's not really a scam, but you should be aware that many scooter rental places will charge you for any damage to the scooter when you return it. Even if you have insurance, the rental contract will require you to pay damages before leaving the rental shop, and you will have to file a claim to get your money back from the insurance company later.
If you drop that scooter, it will get a ding in some panel. That panel will need to be replaced. That will be an import part most likely, and you will get charged $500 USD for that panel. And you probably dinged more than one panel.
Like I said, it's really risky to your pocket book at the least, and your body at worst.