ISLA MUJERES
Just a 20-minute ferry trip off the coast of Cancun lies the captivating island of Isla Mujeres. This 5-mile-long island in the Caribbean is proud to boast one of the top-ranked beaches in the world, once a small fishing village, it is now a popular destination amongst beach-goers looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the larger cities along the Caribbean coast, while still enjoying an abundance of activities, tours, beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Isla Mujeres is the perfect destination for those looking for those relaxed Caribbean island vibes, while still seeking fun, sun, and delicious food and drinks!
What is there to do?
Small in size, but big in character, Isla Mujeres has an abundance of underwater, on-the-water, and on-land activities to keep all of its visitors entertained, relaxed, and pampered during their visit to this lovable island in the Caribbean.
Like many destinations along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Isla Mujeres is next to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which is the second-largest coral reef system in the world. It is also fairly shallow (great for first-time divers) and benefits from crystal clear, and turquoise blue water, which means that there are great opportunities to dive and snorkel, as well as go on boat trips, rent a private boat, swim with the planet’s gentle giants - the whale sharks, among other great experiences on the Caribbean Sea! Being only 5 miles long it is easy to travel around Isla Mujeres, and the island boasts a unique travel experience, you can rent golf carts to enjoy those island breezes while indulging in some magical views. One of those views is across the Caribbean Ocean, specifically from the area of Punta Sur… being the most eastern point in Mexico, the island's cliffs in the south area are said to be the first place in Mexico where the sun's rays hit land, which means you can be one of the first people to see the sunshine in the country when you bear witness to its stunning sunrise. Sunsets across the bay are also not to be missed from this Pueblo Magico, “magic town”. Visitors to Isla Mujeres also have the opportunity to get pampered, relax on the beach, eat, drink, and party. Isla Mujeres has something for everyone.
Top Activities in Isla Mujeres:
Rent a Golf Cart
Explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace. For many visitors renting a golf cart is the number one way to see the island, and a must-do activity while on Isla Mujeres. You can cruise the island’s roads, explore hidden gems, and discover delicious local food, and picturesque scenes. Rentals are available for the day, 24 hours, or for an entire stay.
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Swim with Whale Sharks
This seasonal (May - September), once-in-a-lifetime activity will take your breath away! Swimming with the ocean’s gentle giants, the whale sharks, is an experience like no other on Isla Mujeres.
Dine on Avenida Hidalgo
Eat dinner streetside on Avenida Hidalgo, Isla Mujeres’ main bar and restaurant strip. You can people-watch on this bustling street at one of the many delicious restaurants that line it, including Ocean's, Lola Valentina, Xantolo, Mama Rosa, Asia Caribe, Rolandi’s, and Guacamole de Humo, to name just a few.
Go Fishing
Once a small fishing village, Isla Mujeres still has a thriving fishing culture, which means that you can participate in Bay Fishing, and Deep Sea Fishing, on a private trip with some local fishermen who really know the area.
Snorkel or Dive
Jump into Isla Mujeres’ colorful underwater world, with many beautiful snorkel and dive spots, with an abundance of blooming corals and tropical marine life. Snorkel or learn a new skill with a PADI scuba diving course.
Take a Trip to Punta Sur
Visit Punta Sur, and the Templo Ixchel, Isla Mujeres’ Mayan ruins. Take a trip to the south end of the island, where there are Mayan ruins, take photos of this beautiful and natural site, with statues depicting the Mayan culture, and go for a walk around the beautiful southern edge, on the cliffside, scenic path for stunning views.
Boat Days
Join a catamaran trip or charter your own private yacht for a fun day on the Caribbean Sea.
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Practice Yoga
Join a yoga class at one of the island's studios, or hire a private yoga instructor to go to your vacation rental for a group class.
Isla Mujeres' Beautiful Beach
Enjoy the beautiful Playa Norte and its shallow, clear water and gorgeous white sand.
Go to a Beach Club
Spend a day at one of Isla Mujeres’ many beach clubs. Whether you want a relaxing day on a lounger or a day of dancing and partying underneath the Mexican sun, Isla Mujeres has a great selection of beach clubs across the island, each catering to different visitors.
Sunrise
Be one of the first people in Mexico to see the sun’s rays in the morning. Isla Mujeres’ Punta Sur is the most eastern point in Mexico, so wake up early and head to the south point, where you can be one of the first people to see the Mexican sun on a new day as it rises over the Caribbean.
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Sunset
Sunset on Playa Norte - sunrise, to sunset, Isla Mujeres has the best views Watch a breathtaking sunset from Playa Norte, as it sets over the sea and Cancun.
Experience Wing Diving
Fly underwater in Isla Mujers’ clear waters, and discover this incredible and enjoyable watersport.
Dance Salsa
Dance to salsa music on Isla Mujeres’ main bar and restaurant strip, Avenida Hidalgo. You can dance to salsa music at Xantolo, La Terraza, and Faynes.
Getting to Isla Mujeres & Where to go After:
Getting to Isla Mujeres from Cancun is easy! You can buy your ferry tickets in advance, online. Book a private transfer to Puerto Juarez, Ultramar ferry terminal, and take the ferry from here with a schedule that runs daily from 5:30 AM - 11:00 PM. This crossing is only 20 minutes, and you can see some of the most gorgeous colors of blue in the sea, and maybe even some sea life (yes the water is that clear!). There are also options to cross with a private boat transfer, take a look here for more information.
Many people visit Isla Mujeres on a day trip from Cancun, but the best way to experience the island is over several days. After you’ve had your fill of island life, why not head inland? Return to Cancun, and take a private transfer to the train station to catch a train to the quaint city of Valladolid. Enjoy the history and culture of one of Mexico’s other Pueblo Magicos. From Cancun, you can travel easily via Tren Maya®, the “Mayan Train” to Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum, or the Yucatan with the city of Valladolid or the historic ruins of Chichen Itza.