Who doesn’t love Mexico? The vibrant culture, lively colors, and amazing food are all the more inviting on an island paradise. Isla Mujeres takes it all up a notch with Caribbean waters, white sand beaches, and the coziness of a tropical escape. You can try out water sports or kick back with a piña colada and just soak in the beauty—either way, this island is a must-see. Here’s how to plan your trip:

How to Get to Isla Mujeres

• Fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN)
  • Once in Cancun, take a taxi or book a private transfer to the ferry terminal at Puerto Juarez. It’s about a 30-40 minute drive, and taxis are readily available, or you can pre-book a shuttle for added convenience.
• Ferry to Isla Mujeres
  • Ultramar Ferry runs frequent trips from Puerto Juarez to Isla Mujeres, with ferries every 30 minutes. The crossing takes 15-20 minutes, and tickets are $10-12 USD one way. You can buy them at the terminal or online.

Things to Do on Isla Mujeres

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

• • Isla Mujeres is a diver’s paradise with over 20 dive sites, from coral reefs to sunken ships and the famous Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). For a quick booking, stroll along the beach and explore options, as I did with a trip to El Farito and MUSA, which are shallow and beginner-friendly.

Visit Playa Norte

• • Known for its soft sands and calm, turquoise waters, Playa Norte is perfect for swimming, lounging, or snorkeling. Beach clubs offer rentals, or you can lay your towel under a palm tree for a relaxed afternoon.

Turtle Sanctuary (Tortugranja)

• • Stop by Isla Mujeres’ Turtle Sanctuary to learn about local sea turtles and conservation efforts. Depending on the season, you may even see baby turtles being released into the ocean.

Explore Punta Sur and the Cliff Walk

• • The island’s southernmost point, Punta Sur, offers dramatic cliffs, an ancient Mayan temple, and stunning ocean views. Stroll along the cliff paths for scenic overlooks and art installations by local artists. It’s also the easternmost point in Mexico—perfect for catching the sunrise!

Rent a Golf Cart and Tour the Island

• • Golf carts are a popular way to explore at your own pace, with easy access to hidden beaches and local eateries. Grab some fresh ceviche or a coconut from a roadside stall as you cruise around.

Go to Ice Bar

• • For a unique, chilled experience in the tropics, visit the Ice Bar, where everything from the furniture to the glasses is made of ice—a refreshing change from the warm island air.

Isla Mujeres is a true gem with something for everyone, from adrenaline-filled activities to laid-back beach vibes. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, this little slice of paradise will keep calling you back!

Where to Stay on Isla Mujeres

Hotel Secreto

• • A chic, minimalist oceanfront hotel with a tranquil pool and private beach access. It’s close to Playa Norte and a short walk from downtown—a perfect retreat for couples or solo travelers.

Zoëtry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun

• • This boutique resort provides an all-inclusive experience focused on relaxation and wellness, featuring ocean views, gourmet dining, and a private yacht shuttle from Cancun for an extra touch of luxury.

Nomads Hotel & Beach Club

• • A relaxed, social beachfront spot with both dorms and private rooms. The beach club has hammocks, swings, and a bar, ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting to meet fellow globetrotters.

Casa de los Sueños

• • Known for charming decor and gorgeous ocean views, this boutique hotel offers a quiet atmosphere and an infinity pool. Plus, guests enjoy access to the on-site water park, Garrafon de Castilla, making it a favorite for families.

Privilege Aluxes

• • This all-inclusive resort near Playa Norte has spacious rooms, restaurants, pools, and an on-site spa, catering to all travelers with both garden and ocean view options.

Tips for Visiting Isla Mujeres

• Currency: Although Isla Mujeres is tourist-friendly, it’s a good idea to carry cash in pesos, especially for small purchases and tips. Larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops accept credit cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller establishments.

• Getting Around: While taxis are available, renting a golf cart for the day is highly recommended and one of the best ways to see the island. Rentals are easy to find, but make sure to bring your driver’s license!

• When to Visit: Isla Mujeres is beautiful all year, but if you’re interested in seeing whale sharks, plan your visit between June and September. November to April offers cooler, drier weather, which many travelers find ideal.

• Water: Avoid drinking tap water in Mexico, including Isla Mujeres. Bottled water is widely available, and it’s a good practice to use it even for brushing teeth (though some travelers are comfortable using tap water for brushing).

• Is Isla Mujeres a Party Island?: Isla Mujeres has a lively area with music, restaurants, and late-night shops along Avenida Miguel Hidalgo, but it’s not a typical “party” destination. The island has more of a laid-back vibe compared to nearby places like Cancun.

• Safety: Isla Mujeres feels very safe and welcoming, but it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings, be mindful of pickpockets in busy areas, and watch your drink as you would in any tourist destination.

WHEN YOU PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS, YOU SUPPORT US AT NO EXTRA COST – THANK YOU SO MUCH!