I just got back from Cozumel—sunburned, happy, and honestly still thinking about how wild my day at El Barriecito was. I didn’t spend this trip just lounging on the beach. I finally decided to try some of the tours we offer there, partly out of curiosity and partly because I wanted to see what all the buzz was about. Spoiler: it’s worth it.

El Barriecito is one of the newer spots on the island, but it already feels like a staple. It’s got everything—from hands-on activities like painting your own alebrije to full-on wrestling shows with drinks and snacks. I went for the lucha libre experience and ended up getting way more out of the day than I expected.

The vibe was great from the moment I arrived. Everyone was super welcoming and walked me through the place. And funny enough, the guy in charge of my schedule was someone I went to school with for nine years—shoutout to Kevin! We hadn’t seen each other since kindergarten, so we caught up a bit as he gave me the tour. Some areas were under maintenance, but even so, every corner looked like it belonged on someone’s Instagram—bright murals, glass block walls, and a lot of personality.

I wandered into the gift shop for a bit, which is basically tequila central. I didn’t go for the tasting this time (was saving space for tacos later), but I noticed plenty of people grabbing bottles to bring back home.

Then it was time for the Lucha Libre Show. I was offered a jamaica or a margarita (both included with the tour), and made my way to the arena. I’d never seen a lucha libre match in person before, so I had no idea what I was in for—but I was completely hooked. Kids were running around in little luchador masks, people were buying snacks and cheering, and the whole thing felt part sports event, part improv theatre.

The host came out and introduced the fighters: Tequila, Thunder, Kukulcán, Barriecito, and El Catrín. Every round was pure chaos—in the best way. There were flips, betrayals, new alliances, and even audience participation. At one point, people were literally handing over their chanclas so the luchadores could smack each other with them. I screamed so much I lost my voice. A little girl sitting next to me noticed I was taking photos and made sure to take some of me on her pink camera—top-tier energy.

After that, I walked around until it was time for the Taco Workshop. That’s where I met Eliu, Diego, and Dianelly—super friendly, super professional, and clearly passionate about what they do. The workshop ran smoothly but still felt relaxed. People were laughing, asking questions, and getting really into the food. The tacos were amazing, but what stood out most was the way they explained each one—where it comes from, how it’s made, and how to enjoy it alongside different kinds of tequila. It was informative without being stiff, and everyone seemed genuinely into it.

Honestly, the whole day made me feel more connected to parts of my culture I hadn’t really explored. I grew up in Mexico and I’m half-Mexican, but sometimes you don’t fully appreciate things until you experience them in a new way. Whether you go for the Lucha Libre Show Classic, the Lucha Libre Show, Tacos & Margaritas, the Lucha Libre Meet & Greet Package, or the Taco Workshop, there’s something really special about watching people bring tradition to life with so much humor and heart.

I haven’t tried the Alebrije Sculpture Workshop yet, but if you’re more of a hands-on, artsy type, I’ve heard nothing but good things.

Bottom line: If you’re visiting Cozumel and want to do more than just relax at the beach, El Barriecito is a must. It’s colorful, lively, and full of surprises—in the best way possible.

By Bee Díaz