Looking for the most effective issues to do in Isla Mujeres? We received you coated.
Located off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is well-known for its magnificence. Palm bushes, white sand seashores, rocky coastlines, and a hoard of flora, fauna, and nature, this island paradise is completely value a go to for those who’re in Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
The island could look small nevertheless it packs a punch, particularly for those who’re a nature-lover. Most individuals go to on a day journey and you’ll see fairly a bit in a day… however for a real island escape, we recommend dedicating just a few days to Isla Mujeres for those who can!
When we had been dwelling in Playa del Carmen, Mexico for a yr, we’d head to Isla Mujeres for fast getaways and cherished it. It is considered one of our favourite spots within the Yucatan Peninsula!
In this whole information, we share with you our prime recommendations on the most effective issues to do, the right way to get to Isla Mujeres, the place to eat whilst you’re on the island and extra
How to Get To Isla Mujeres
You can get to Isla Mujeres by ferry. You first should get your self to Puerto Juarez which isn’t too removed from downtown Cancun.
From Cancun Hotel Zone, you may get there by taxi (it’ll value about 50 pesos) or it’s a 20-minute bus journey on ADO’s Ruda 13. Then search for the Gran Puerto Cancun (Ultramar) ferry dock.
If you’re coming from Cancun Airport, you’ll be able to organize for a non-public transport to take you on to Puerto Juarez the place you’ll be able to simply purchase boat tickets. A return journey with a non-public driver is round $75 ($45 a technique) and is the most effective and best solution to get to Isla Mujeres.
The Isla Mujeres ferry go away each half hour so you may have plenty of choices. However, this can be a fashionable crossing so be ready for it to be crowded. For a full information on the right way to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, try our article.
If you’re visiting Isla Mujeres on a day journey from Cancun, you too can go for a guided journey that can care for all the small print so to sit again and loosen up.
Here are some tour suggestions to get you there:
- Full-day Catamaran Tour: Departing from Cancun, sail to Isla Mujeres in type on a catamaran. Your day will characteristic swimming, snorkeling, plus a buffet lunch is included. You’ll have additionally free time to lounge on the seashore.
- Full-day Whale Shark Adventure: Depending on the season (May-September) you’ll be able to guide this tour from all the essential hotspots like Cancun, Tulum, and many others. which takes you to see the light giants of the underwater world, the whale sharks whereas they’re migrating! This is a small group tour that’s extremely rated.
- Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres: Paradise Islands Combo Tour: This choice contains pick-up out of your resort in Cancun or Riviera Maya and can take you to each Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy. Aside from quick excursions of each islands, you’ll additionally get pleasure from a 40-minute snorkeling session and lunch is included.
- Isla Mujeres All-Inclusive Snorkel Trip: If snorkeling is your jam, try this snorkel journey to Isla Mujeres. You’ll get 45-minute snorkeling at Punta Sam Reef after which one other probability to snorkel at Playa Norte! Lunch can be taken care of.
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Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres
Whether you’re simply right here for the day or for those who’ve selected an prolonged keep, listed here are our suggestions for the most effective issues to do in Isla Mujeres!
Isla Mujeres is comparatively a small island so you’ll simply get to do a handful of our ideas under. However, having mentioned that, we do suggest spending at the very least two to 3 days on the island that will help you take advantage of out of your time.
1. Soak within the Sun at Playa Norte
What’s an island retreat with out nice seashores? Just 10 minutes from the pier lies the favored Playa Norte which is the principle seashore on Isla Mujeres.
One of the most lovely seashores in Mexico, this sandy seashore is framed by palm bushes and lovely blue waters. Loved by locals and guests, that is undoubtedly the place to be to soak in these island vibes.
There are seashore golf equipment alongside the sand which is nice for getting a comfortable place to lounge plus just a few cocktails and snacks.
The western finish, close to the ferry pier, is understandably extra crowded as guests off the ferry scramble to safe their spot within the sand. So, for those who’re searching for a bit extra quiet, head right down to the east finish of the seashore.
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2. Zip Around on a Golf Cart
To discover all the of Isla Mujeres, lease a golf automotive! There are only a few automobiles on the island and so golf automotive leases are one of the simplest ways to get round — on prime of being enjoyable, after all.
You can simply lease one while you disembark from the ferry and it prices about $50 for the day. Do word that you just want a legitimate driver’s license to lease one.
Once you’re on the street, simply be conscious of security. Follow fundamental street guidelines and maintain an eye fixed out for pedestrians. Then have enjoyable zipping across the island and trying out the opposite spots on this listing! It’s a simple drive with one street circumnavigating all the island so there’s little room for getting misplaced.
If you like to have a neighborhood to information you then try this golf cart tour of Isla Mujeres. Honestly, getting a golf cart in Isla Mujeres is an expertise in itself and is THE greatest solution to discover Isla Mujeres.
3. Swim with Whale Sharks
Here’s one factor to do in Isla Mujeres which you could tick off your bucket listing: swim with whale sharks.
The waters across the island are a part of the migration route of whale sharks. And from May to September, you may get within the water and stand up shut with these light giants.
Whale sharks are among the most unbelievable creatures and seeing them of their pure habitat is nothing in need of spectacular.
On a whale shark tour, you’ll get to snorkel with these whales, two individuals at a time. The tour that we suggest solely has 10 individuals on the boat which makes it lots higher as small group interactions are the way in which to go when coping with wildlife.
This whale shark tour has a number of beginning factors and could be performed for those who’re in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and even for those who’re already in Isla Mujeres.
While snorkeling, you even have the prospect to identify Manta Rays and different superior marine animals alongside the way in which. We suggest this highly-rated small eco tour which incorporates lunch on the boat whereas having fun with the turquoise blue waters of Isla Mujeres.
4. Snorkel Around Isla Mujeres
If being within the water with whale sharks sounds just a little too excessive for you, a traditional session of snorkeling in Isla Mujeres continues to be tons of enjoyable. You can simply lease snorkel gear from the numerous dive retailers dotting the seashores.
To exit additional into the water, you’ll be able to go for a snorkeling tour that’ll take you out onto the Caribbean and to among the close by reefs and snorkeling hotspots. Just hop into the closest dive store and discover out in the event that they run any excursions.
5. Learn About Sea Turtles at La Tortuga Granja
The island is residence to a turtle farm referred to as La Tortuga Granja and a go to right here is certainly one of many enjoyable issues to do in Isla Mujeres.
Sea turtles are an endangered species and this farm is devoted to defending their eggs and being a secure breeding floor for these cute creatures.
The farm additionally cares for injured and albino turtles. Even for those who’re not notably keen on sea turtles, La Tortuga Granja may change your thoughts!
And in case your go to is throughout August to October, you is likely to be fortunate sufficient to see them releasing child sea turtles again into the wild!!!
Editor’s Note: Located someplace within the space of the turtle park is one other vacationer attraction the place you’ll be able to swim with Nurse Sharks. These sharks are stored in captivity and that is one thing we suggest you AVOID doing whereas in Isla Mujeres.
6. Stroll Down the Pedestrian Street of Miguel Hidalgo
For a enjoyable time on land, uncover the charms of the pedestrian avenue of Miguel Hidalgo in “downtown” Isla Mujeres. Other than the city sq., that is one other spot the place you’ll be able to simply benefit from the full of life ambiance of the island.
Yes, it’s a bit touristy… however actually, that’s a part of the appeal. Quaint little retailers, eating places, tour operators: there’s just a little little bit of every part on this avenue. The greatest time to go to is within the night, as soon as the warmth cools down and the ambiance lights up.
Tip: The eating places listed here are catered in the direction of vacationers and are barely costlier. However, with that being mentioned, the standard of the meals we had there have been nice!
If you’re on a finances, I’d counsel consuming elsewhere and popping by right here for a post-dinner stroll. There are additionally some bars with reside music for a enjoyable night.
Later on on this article, we suggest just a few locations to eat whereas in Isla Mujeres, Mexico.
7. Do Some People-Watching on the Zocalo (Town Square)
The city sq. in Isla Mujeres could not appear notably particular through the day time… however issues undoubtedly warmth up as soon as the solar units!
The Zocalo is bordered by City Hall on the west, a Catholic church on the south, and a babies’s playground on the east aspect. In the evenings, this sq. turns into a bevy of pleasure with dancing, celebrations, and occasions typically occurring right here.
This can be the spot to see each locals and vacationers having tasty treats from the road distributors, hanging out, and simply having fun with life. Being here’s a enjoyable solution to really feel such as you’re a part of the motion!
8. Taco and Margarita Crawl
What higher solution to uncover Isla Mujeres than by the meals? Check out our article on the greatest eating places in Isla Mujeres to go on a self-guided meals tour!
Speaking from expertise, having visited Isla Mujeres and frolicked consuming our manner across the island, there are SO many unbelievable taco spots in Isla Mujeres so that is one tour you undoubtedly don’t wish to miss!
There is nothing higher than seeing a spot by the eyes of a neighborhood.
9. Look for the Sea Wall Murals
For a dose of artwork and activism, go on a hunt for the ocean wall murals on Isla Mujeres.
These beautiful items of ocean-themed artwork had been created by a bunch of internationally-acclaimed artists (together with three Mexican artists) who wished to boost consciousness about necessary points akin to sustainability, ecotourism, and whale shark conservation.
They’re scattered across the island so maintain an eye fixed out for them as you wander round.
Pssst, you’ll be able to see the map of murals right here so to be sure to see all of them!
10. Explore Punta Sur
Zoom over to Punta Sur in your golf cart, for those who’re seeking to get away from all the opposite vacationers. The south finish of Isla Mujeres is probably not on the vacationer radar nevertheless it’s nonetheless value a go to. This level is claimed to be the primary spot in Mexico that the solar lights up throughout dawn.
The dramatic rocky cliffside may be very picturesque and is a unique aspect of Isla Mujeres to find. The entire space is kind of open so we recommend to convey water because it will get actually sizzling, particularly through the center of the day.
If you want a break, there’s a restaurant on-site and it’s a terrific place to have a chilly beer after the stroll. The waters in Punta Sur are out of this world and are SO clear and blue. One have a look at the waters right here actually make you are feeling such as you’re within the Caribbean sea.
If you need someplace a bit extra comfortable to park your self, head to Garaffon de Castilla which is sort of a modest seashore membership. For a small charge, you may get some solar within the lounger chairs, snorkel, and have entry to their services.
Editor’s Note: Garaffon de Castilla is subsequent to Garaffon Natural Reef Park which we don’t suggest going to. They have captive dolphins and we don’t help such unethical animal encounters.
Other sights like Dolphin Discovery also needs to be prevented! If you wish to know extra about why you shouldn’t help anyplace that retains dolphins captive, click on right here to learn extra.
In our opinion, each Dolphin Discover and Garaffon Natural Reef Park needs to be keep away from whereas in Isla Mujeres.
11. Feel Like a Local in Mercado Municipal
One of the most effective locations to get the heart beat of a city (apart from the city sq.) is the native market. Mercado Municipal was not too long ago transformed however the stalls are nonetheless as native and genuine as ever.
Whether it’s low-cost eats, contemporary juices, or contemporary produce, you’ll discover nearly every part you want right here. Come with an empty abdomen, discover the totally different stalls, and take a look at a little bit of every part! If you like a extra leisurely sit-down meal, there are 4 open-air eating places exterior the market that serves Mexican meals.
12. Go Beach-Hopping
You’re on an island paradise so beach-hopping ought to completely be in your listing of issues to do in Isla Mujeres! I’m certain you’ve heard of Playa Norte and its alluring waters. It is de facto top-of-the-line seashores within the Mexican Caribbean and is a should do whilst you go to Isla Mujeres.
The snorkeling in Isla Mujeres is unreal and is a should do!
However, with that being mentioned, Playa Norte could also be the preferred spot on the island nevertheless it’s not the one seashore value visiting. To get away from the crowds, you’ll be able to head to Playa Posada. The water right here just isn’t as clear or shallow nevertheless it’s nonetheless a beautiful place to go to.
There are different secluded seashores on the west of the island that you could be wish to go to: Playa Paraiso, Playa Indios, and Playa Lancheros. These seashores have good facilities like umbrellas and seashore chairs so you’ll be able to simply spend a soothing day at one (or all!) of them.
Another nice seashore is Playa Sol. Playa Sol is a white sandy seashore and is completely beautiful. Please be warned that there are not any services on this seashore so in case you are heading to Playa Sol, be sure to pack some umbrellas, a sarong, in addition to loads of water.
13. Try Your Hand at Fishing
Did you recognize that Isla Mujeres is a fishing paradise? Whether you’re an skilled fisherman or a beginner, fishing in Isla Mujeres is a good way to spend the day.
You can enterprise out to the Caribbean Sea for deep sea fishing or go for inshore or backside fishing journeys. Typically fishing excursions will embrace fishing tools together with bait and deal with.
What are you able to catch? It ranges from marlin and dorado to snapper, grouper, and even tuna and mahi-mahi, relying on the season.
14. Get Centered at a Yoga Class
If you may have extra time on the island and are visiting for longer than a day journey, a yoga class is a good way to spend a while on Isla Mujeres.
Build on these stress-free island vibes with a yoga observe that can have you ever feeling peaceable and centered.
All you early birds can begin your day with a morning session at Treehouse Yoga. Set proper by Playa Norte, a session at this coated out of doors studio is an efficient solution to begin your day. Prefer a night observe? They even have sundown yoga courses!
Other yoga spots on the island are Red Buddha Yoga (on Avenida Juarez) and Casa IxChel Hotel which presents free courses to visitors.
15. Wander Around the Mayan Ruins, Ixchel
When you’re in Punta Sur, one factor you undoubtedly shouldn’t miss is Ixchel, the island’s Mayan ruins. The identify “Isla Mujeres” truly is a reference to Ixchel herself who was a Mayan goddess of moon, fertility, and happiness.
The focus is the realm is the Mayan Godess Ixchel, however there are different factors of curiosity as effectively. On the trail to the temple, you’ll stroll by an outside trendy artwork exhibition by Mexican and worldwide artists.
And on the endpoint of the park, you’ll be able to take the winding path down the cliffside to entry the seashore. Plus, maintain an eye fixed out for the iguana statue and precise iguanas as effectively!
If you’re involved in Mayan Ruins, try our put up on the greatest Mayan Ruins in Mexico that will help you plan your journey accordingly!
16. Go Scuba Diving in Isla Mujeres
While the waters of Isla Mujeres are lovely, it’s nothing in comparison with the wonders hidden beneath them.
Chock-full of various marine life, scuba diving in Isla Mujeres is an unforgettable expertise. Some alternative diving spots within the space embrace the Manchones, Cuevones, and Banderas Reefs. Even for learners, it’s a very good place to dive because the waters are calm and clear.
If you’re an entire newbie and wish to see what scuba diving is like, try this discovery dive the place you’ll be able to see the distinctive statues at MUSA (Museo de Arte Subacuático) which additionally has a synthetic reef.
Advanced divers, you’ll be able to sit up for night time dives, wreck dives, and drift dives. Check out this two tank dive the place you’ll be able to see the underwater statues at MUSA in addition to the well-known Manchones Reef.
And for those who’re right here throughout December to June, which is sailfish season, you may see one thing superior: twenty or extra sailfish in a feeding frenzy of “bait balls” product of sardine.
17. Check Out MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art
Once you’re performed admiring the marine life at Isla Mujeres, it’s time to go below once more… however this time, for a totally totally different diving expertise.
Take a dive to discover artwork underwater at MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte). This distinctive museum was designed to be an intersection of artwork and ecology. The museum could be seen by snorkeling or diving, or by getting on a glass-bottom boat.
Here are the really helpful excursions for every:
This underwater museum include sculptures positioned at totally different heights and places within the nationwide park and over time, because the coral reef grows and there may be extra marine life, the looks of the artwork will change because the ecology does.
This actually fascinating underwater museum and expertise is a must-see in Isla Mujeres.
18. Spend the Day at Isla Contoy
Just 30 kilometers from Isla Mujeres lies the tiny Isla Contoy. Though small in measurement, this island is worthy of a day journey.
Isla Contoy is so nature-rich that it’s been protected by the Mexican authorities. Not solely is Isla Contoy residence to over 150 species of birds, it’s additionally a nesting floor for sea turtles.
It has fairly white sand seashores and the attractive blue water that the Caribbean is understood for.
Most day journeys to Isla Contoy will embrace some snorkeling, a tour of the island, and lunch. You’ll even have sufficient free time to discover a bit by yourself or just lounge by the seashore and take within the sunshine.
19. Check Out the Isla Mujeres Artist Fair
If you’re on the island on a Thursday, you’re in luck as a result of the Isla Mujeres Artist takes place on at the present time. From 4.00pm onwards, the Zocalo is remodeled into an artwork haven with native and visiting artists organising store to show their work.
It’s an actual festive environment as there are meals distributors in addition to native non-profits sharing their abilities. There’s every part from portray to sculptures and sketchers and likewise cultural arts performances, dance, and music.
For extra on Mexico, try our Mexico journey suggestions!
20. Sunset Party Sail
Last however not the least, top-of-the-line issues to do in Isla Mujeres is to go for a sundown sail! Honestly, the island is SO lovely that cruising round on a ship is a should.
If you be a part of this extremely rated sundown boat cruise, you get to swim, drink, and celebration away across the island whereas watching sundown. This tour contains swimming so be sure to convey your bathers!
Sunsets in Isla Mujeres is considered one of a sort and I couldn’t consider a greater solution to do it.
Where to Eat in Isla Mujeres
The high quality of eating places in Isla Mujeres is a HUGE plus in comparison with different smaller islands right here in Mexico. During our time there, we had unbelievable meals, all of which we are able to extremely suggest!
It presents a ton of various choices from roadside tacos, upscale eating eating places, to seashore aspect cafes the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a few beers and meals.
Breakfast
North Garden Cafe has scrumptious bagels!
Polo’s Mango Cafe is one other must-not-miss. They have unbelievable mango eggs benedict and coconut french toast which can be to die for!
Lunch
Mar-bella Seafood Market is a unbelievable place situated near Punta Sur. Here, you’ll be able to choose your seafood and have them cook dinner it the way you need it. Their baked fish in garlic and parmesan was among the greatest we had!
If you’re by Playa Norte, the numerous seashore bars situated there serve scrumptious contemporary ceviches and different Mexican staples. Check out considered one of our delicious seaside lunches. The seafood in these stalls are so contemporary so I extremely suggest ordering just a few dishes to share.
Dinner
Fish and Gin is one other unbelievable seafood restaurant situated in Miguel Hidalgo. The service, the meals high quality, and the cocktails spell out an ideal night.
Javi’s Cantina is a good conventional Mexican restaurant with reside music! They have a beautiful courtyard that’s good for eating within the nights.
Need extra info? Check out our full information on the right way to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
Where to Stay on Isla Mujeres
If you’re staying on Isla Mujeres for greater than a day, you then is likely to be questioning the place to remain. The lodging choices on Isla Mujeres range extensively… which is an efficient factor as there’s every part from finances hostels to luxurious five-star resorts.
We discovered that Airbnb in Isla Mujeres can be a terrific choice. We love staying in Airbnbs as they typically provide nice worth and permit us an impartial keep… and generally you could find a really distinctive keep!
To try Airbnbs in Isla Mujeres, try our picks for the greatest airbnbs on Isla Mujeres.
Hotels in Isla Mujeres
Nomads Hotel and Beach Club– If you’re searching for a budget-friendly place to remain that also has just a few facilities, we suggest trying out Nomads Hotel and seashore membership.
Mia Reef Beach Club- If you’re searching for an all-inclusive resort, try Mia Reef Beach Club which has their very own non-public seashore with a ton of actions. This is a brilliant well-rated spot and is unbelievable for swimming, chilling, and hanging out.
Hotel Secreto- Personally, we stayed in Hotel Secreto and ABSOLUTELY cherished our keep. The balcony views are unreal and we spent many evenings simply hanging out trying on the beautiful view.
FAQ on Isla Mujeres
If you’re questioning if Isla Mujeres is value visiting, it’s a 100% sure! It is without doubt one of the most lovely areas within the Yucatan Peninsula and is value taking the ferry over. The better part? There are tons of issues to see and do on this lovely island!
Apart from the powdery white sands and crystal clear waters, Isla Mujeres has a ton of wildlife and issues to do. You can spend your days lazing round a seashore, scuba diving, snorkeling, and even swimming with whale sharks.
If you may have time to spare throughout your journey, even a day journey to Isla Mujeres from Cancun is value doing.
Generally talking, Isla Mujeres may be very secure. It is a vacation spot the place even solo-female vacationers really feel secure strolling at, even within the evenings. There’s a fairly vibrant nightlife
If you wish to snorkel with whale sharks, the most effective time to go to Isla Mujeres in from May to September. During this time, you’ll be able to catch these magnificent creatures migrating.
The greatest time to go to Isla Mujeres is between December to March because the climate isn’t too sizzling but. If you’ll be able to keep away from it, May by September are the rainiest months.
However, having mentioned that, official hurricane season runs from June to November. Hurricanes are far and broad and if you wish to danger it, these months normally have the most effective offers in terms of lodges.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres
Hopefully, this insightful put up on the most effective issues to do in Isla Mujeres can assist you intend a visit of a lifetime.
After quite a few visits to this beautiful island, it’s a place that we wouldn’t hesitate going again to. Isla Mujeres, whether or not you’re solely there on a day journey or for those who choose to spend a few nights is at all times a good suggestion.
Playa Norte is without doubt one of the most lovely seashores in all of Mexico and is value visiting for those who’re a nature lover.
Overall, Isla Mujeres, Mexico is the proper trip spot for {couples}, households, and associates because it has every part conceivable. Beautiful seashores, nice boutique lodges, thrilling boat excursions, nationwide parks and extra.
From Isla Mujeres, you’ll be able to simply head again to Cancun, backtracking the way in which you got here. From the mainland, you’ll be able to keep it up exploring the Yucatan space by visiting considered one of Tulum’s cenotes or Tulum seashore golf equipment.
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