Holidaymakers can soak up the sun as early as May on this Mexican island, best known for its stunning beaches, rare species and marine life. If you think you can handle the heat, head to Cozumel, sitting opposite the holiday hot spot Playa del Carmen, with consistent temperatures of 33C in May.

Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, this lesser-known Mexican destination is surrounded by a diverse ecosystem of coral reefs, home to over 1,000 species.With snorkelling and diving spots, diverse wildlife and rare animals, this place is every adventurer's dream. If you're wanting to get ahead of the curve and the big summer rush before the kids break up from school, May might just be the time to visit.

Cozumel has an idyllic beach for every type of trip, sure to impress even the most well-travelled of tourists. Playa Palancar is best known for its calming, crystal-clear waters and soft white sands, making it the ultimate underwater playground for diving, snorkelling and swimming.

On the other hand, the island is home to Playa Mia, a slightly more lively alternative that boasts a range of activities such as water sports and beach clubs. While Paradise Beach takes a more luxury approach, it is home to all-inclusive experiences and is close to plenty of amenities.

One of the island's most popular excursions takes you off track to the dreamy Isla Pasion. It's just ten minutes away from Cozumel by boat and makes for the ultimate sunny spot, whether you're taking a dip, lying on the sand or swimming out to spot some stingrays. A TripAdvisor review claimed: "This place was absolutely amazing, and the staff was amazing. I would highly recommend this place to anyone."

A fun day out for all the family can include a visit to Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park. Here you can swim with dolphins, meet manatees, and go offshore to submerge yourself in the underwater sculptures and snorkelling tours.

Cozumel hosts large areas completely covered by mangrove forest, which in turn means the island is home to a number of endemic species. These included the adorable Cozumel coati, the Cozumel vireo bird and the Cozumel emerald hummingbird. There are many ways you can explore the ecosystem of the mangroves while on the island, including a calming boat trip through the forests.

Tourists have raved about the food available on the Mexican island, with food tours and a whole host of tasty restaurants. The area is popular for its Yucatecan cuisine, which effortlessly blends Mayan and Spanish tastes, with dishes such as cochinita pibil and Sopa de Lima. Thanks to its vibrant underwater life, various seafood is served daily, including fried grouper and ceviche.

When it comes to getting to the island, there are a few simple options. Cozumel does have its own airport (Cozumel International Airport) that is best suited for internal flights from Mexico. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Playa del Carmen, which takes 45 minutes, give or take.