Where turquoise waters meet ancient Mayan wisdom, just 20 minutes from Cancun’s bustle.
Spend countless mornings watching the Caribbean sunrise paint the sky from Punta Sur, afternoons drifting over coral reefs, and evenings discovering family-run restaurants tucked behind Centro’s colorful streets.
Isla Mujeres isn’t just another Mexican beach destination. It’s a 7-kilometer slice of island life that feels worlds away from the intensity of Cancun’s nightlife and busy beaches.
While Isla Mujeres can be visited from popular Cancun on a day-trip, we prefer to linger and savour the island life. After reading this, we think you will want to do the same.
Quick Peek at Things to Do in Isla Mujeres
The magic of Isla Mujeres reveals itself slowly. Yes, you can see the highlights in a day, but stay three to five days and you’ll understand why many visitors never want to leave.
Morning Discoveries: Start early at Punta Sur to witness Mexico‘s first sunrise. The ancient Ixchel temple ruins and sculpture garden here feel especially peaceful in morning light. Walk the eastern cliffs, but be aware of the powerful currents. This coast is for looking, not swimming.
Afternoon Rhythms: Playa Norte deservedly claims its title as one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. The powdery sand and calm turquoise waters create a natural swimming pool perfect for floating. Beach clubs like Ixchel Beach Hotel offer comfortable day access.
Cultural Connections: Centro’s streets tell stories. Visit the Shell House (Casa Caracol), an architectural marvel designed as a living seashell. Explore the Women’s Beading Cooperative, where local artisans create intricate jewelry. The town square and century-old Catholic church anchor the community’s social life.
Wellness Moments: Escape to Maha Shanti School of Yoga for classes with ocean views. The island’s slower pace naturally encourages wellness. Rent a bicycle and explore at human speed, or find a quiet spot for meditation along the malecón.
Evening Experiences: Sunset viewing spots abound, but locals favor the western shore near Playa Lancheros. As darkness falls, Centro transforms into a relaxed social scene. Street food appears, bars fill with conversation, and live music drifts from restaurants.
Day Tours to Isla Mujeres
Not yet ready to commit to a longer stay on Isla Mujeres? There are plenty of options for day-trips to the island.
From Cancun’s Hotel Zone: Ferries depart from several points, but Puerto Juárez offers the most frequent service (every 30 minutes during peak hours). Round-trip tickets cost approximately $28 USD for adults, $21 USD for children. The 20-minute crossing provides beautiful coastal views.
All-Inclusive Catamaran Tours: Multiple operators offer full-day experiences including transportation, snorkeling at El Meco Reef, beach time at Playa Norte, lunch, and open bar. Companies like Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tours provide luxury sailing experiences.
Private Boat Charters: For intimate experiences, companies like Isla Mujeres Trips offer private Sea Ray boats with snorkeling, ceviche preparation, and customizable itineraries. Perfect for couples or small groups seeking personalized adventures.
Golf Cart Island Tours: Once on the island, guided golf cart tours with local operators like Isla Driver Robby reveal hidden murals, local families, and stories you’d miss exploring independently. Tours typically last 2-3 hours.
Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Primary Departure Points
- Puerto Juárez (Gran Puerto Terminal): Most frequent service, modern amenities, easiest access from Cancun Airport
- Hotel Zone (Playa Tortugas): Convenient for resort guests, but with less frequent departures
- Playa del Carmen: Limited service, longer journey
Ferry Companies: Ultramar operates the most established service with the highest frequency. Newer operator Jetway offers competitive pricing and modern vessels.
Practical Details: Ferries run from early morning (5:30 AM) to late evening (11:30 PM). During peak season, purchase tickets in advance online to avoid waits. The terminal includes parking ($10-15 USD daily), restaurants, and shops.
Airport Transfers: Happy Shuttle Cancun offers combined airport transfer plus ferry tickets for $111 USD—more convenient than managing separate bookings.
Getting Around Isla Mujeres
The island stretches just 7 kilometers tip to tip and less than 1 kilometer wide, so you’d have to try hard to get lost.
Golf Carts Isla Mujeres: (Most Popular) Rental companies cluster near the ferry terminal. Daily rates range $70 to $120 USD, depending on cart quality and season. Companies mentioned by visitors:
- Prisma and Gomar: Budget-friendly options
- Ciros: Higher-quality carts, located five blocks toward Mia Reef
- Book early during peak season
Bicycles: Perfect for the island’s flat terrain and short distances. Several rental shops in Centro offer daily and weekly rates.
Walking: From the ferry dock to Playa Norte: 20 minutes leisurely walk through Centro’s charming streets.
Taxis: Available but expensive ($12-15 USD for short trips). Locals primarily use them for luggage transport or night returns from distant restaurants.
Personal Tip: We’ve found golf carts offer the perfect balance of convenience and exploration. The island’s single main road (Rueda Medina) plus a few side streets make navigation simple.
Hotels in Isla Mujeres
The island’s accommodation personality ranges from budget backpacker hostels to intimate luxury hideaways. Most visitors choose to stay in Norte (near Playa Norte) for beach access and dining options.
Luxury & Boutique Hotels
Hotel Secreto: One of the island’s few luxury properties features a private beach, infinity pool, and exclusive beach house. Adult-oriented sophistication in a tranquil setting.
Zoetry Villa Rolandi: All-inclusive luxury with 35 oceanfront suites, many featuring plunge pools. Known for exceptional service and romantic sunset sails on the resort’s private yacht.
Casa de Los Sueños: “House of Dreams” lives up to its name with intimate oceanfront suites and spectacular sunset views. Perfect for couples seeking privacy and luxury.
Mid-Range Comfort
Ixchel Beach Hotel: Beachfront location on Playa Norte with comfortable rooms and excellent snorkeling access. Popular with travelers seeking location without luxury pricing.
Lotus Beach Hotel: Boutique property combining modern amenities with island charm. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views.
Mia Reef Isla Mujeres: All-inclusive resort on its own small island, connected by bridge. Offers multiple restaurants, activities, and family-friendly amenities.
Budget & Backpacker
Selina Poc Na Isla Mujeres: Co-working focused property perfect for digital nomads. Individual rooms are available alongside hostel-style accommodation. Features an on-site dive center and beach club.
Nomads Hotel & Beach Club: ( Mayan Monkey Isla Mujeres – Social Hotel) Social hostel near Playa Norte with beach club access and organized activities.
Vacation Rentals: Platforms like VRBO offer everything from simple apartments to luxury villas. Casa Bella Noche, mentioned in reviews, provides 360-degree rooftop views and concierge-style hosts.
Beaches in Isla Mujeres
Playa Norte: This crown jewel beach on Isla Mujeres deserves its reputation as one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. Soft white sand meets impossibly blue water in a natural swimming pool protected from ocean currents. Beach clubs provide comfortable day access, but the beach itself remains public and free.
The shallow, calm water makes Playa Norte perfect for families, while the stunning sunsets create romantic evening moments. Small reef areas offer decent snorkeling near shore.
Playa El Centro: The downtown beach provides easy access from Centro’s restaurants and shops. Less spectacular than Playa Norte, but convenient for quick swims between exploring.
Playa Lancheros: Located on the island’s calmer western shore, this local favorite offers excellent sunset views and traditional Tikin-Xic grilled fish. The beach supports several family-run restaurants.
Playa Garrafón: Near Punta Sur, this smaller beach provides crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling. Less crowded than the northern beaches, it is ideal for peaceful reflection after exploring the sculpture garden and ruins.
Eastern Shores: The Caribbean-facing eastern coast offers dramatic views and powerful waves, but strong currents make swimming dangerous. These beaches are for contemplation and photography, not water activities.
Restaurants in Isla Mujeres
The island’s culinary scene reflects its laid-back character. Think fresh seafood prepared simply, family-run establishments serving generations-old recipes, and creative chefs putting modern spins on Yucatecan traditions.
Breakfast & Brunch
Rooster Café: Consistently rated the island’s best breakfast spot. The Caribbean eggs Benedict with lobster tail and chipotle Hollandaise exemplifies their creative approach to classics. One of the few places that actually cooks potatoes crispy.
Lunch & Casual Dining
Beachin’ Burrito Despite the name, it serves some of the island’s best burritos. Small space, big flavors, and quality that justifies slightly higher prices than street food.
Isla Burger: Quality burger joint with customizable options and upper-floor seating providing street views. The meat quality exceeds typical vacation burgers.
Fine Dining
Xantolo: Our top pick for overall island dining. Traditional Mexican dishes from various regions are elevated with fine-dining techniques. The octopus carnitas and grouper with green mole showcase their skill. Happy hour offers two margaritas or daiquiris for 110 pesos.
Javi’s Cantina: Romantic dinner spot with live music. Lobster tail and steak preparations done well, creating memorable evening experiences.
Local Favorites
Lola Valentina: Sister restaurant to Xantolo, sharing their attention to detail. Creative cocktails and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for extended evening socializing.
Morgan’s Restaurant: Hidden gem known for the island’s best chile relleno, stuffed with sweet lobster. Live music many evenings adds to the charm.
Olivia: Greek and Moroccan flavors in a beautiful garden setting. Generous portions of shareable dishes, including excellent moussaka and spanakopita.
Street Food & Quick Bites: Centro’s evening street food scene comes alive after sunset. Vendors offer fresh tacos, elotes (grilled corn), and regional specialties at fraction of restaurant prices.
Scuba Diving Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres sits within the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest coral reef system. The diving here combines healthy coral gardens, fascinating artificial reefs, and reliable marine life encounters.
Dive Sites Around Isla Mujeres
MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art): Over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in crystal-clear water create this unique underwater gallery. Depths of 8-10 meters make it accessible to Open Water divers. The sculptures, made from coral-friendly materials, actively promote reef growth while providing stunning photo opportunities.
Manchones Reef: This healthy coral reef system features abundant tropical fish, rays, and occasional nurse sharks. Often combined with MUSA diving, Manchones represents classic Caribbean reef diving at its finest.
Punta Sur: Dive site known for turtle encounters—guides practically guarantee sightings as the location sits directly in turtle migration paths. Expect green and loggerhead turtles plus typical reef fish.
Wreck Diving: The island’s waters hide several shipwrecks, from warships to cargo vessels, now transformed into thriving artificial reefs. Gun-boat 58 and Gun-boat 55 offer interesting wreck exploration opportunities.
Dive Operators
Mexico Divers: Family-owned operation with over 10 years of experience. PADI and SDI/TDI professionals provide personalized attention to all experience levels. Their two-tank dive packages to MUSA and Manchones receive excellent reviews.
Squalo Adventures: Located in Plaza Isla Mujeres, offers a complete range from discovery dives to advanced certifications. Their captains have over 30 years experience in local waters.
Pocna Dive Center: PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center offering courses from Open Water through instructor level. Located at Selina resort but serves all divers.
Practical Information: Water temperatures remain around 28°C (82°F) year-round. Visibility typically ranges 15-30 meters depending on conditions. Most dive sites lie within 15 minutes of shore, allowing for comfortable morning and afternoon diving.
Non-Divers: MUSA and shallow reef sites offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. Glass-bottom boat tours provide dry alternatives for observing underwater attractions.
Isla Mujeres Punta Sur
The island’s southernmost point combines natural beauty, ancient history, and contemporary art in one dramatic clifftop location.
Ancient Heritage: Ruins of a temple dedicated to Ixchel, the Maya goddess of the moon, love, and fertility, occupy this sacred headland. While hurricanes have weathered the structures over centuries, the spiritual significance remains palpable. Maya pilgrims once journeyed here seeking blessings for fertility and good harvests.
Sculpture Garden: Contemporary international artists have created outdoor sculptures inspired by Maya culture and Caribbean natural beauty. These artworks wind along cliff-top trails, creating a unique fusion of ancient and modern artistic expression. Entry fee: approximately $6 USD (100 pesos).
Lighthouse Views: The historic lighthouse, built in 1902, provides panoramic views across the Caribbean to Cancun’s distant skyline. This vantage point sits at Mexico’s easternmost point, making it the first place in the country to witness sunrise.
Natural Drama: Twenty-meter-high cliffs offer spectacular ocean vistas where waves crash against ancient coral limestone. The dramatic seascape creates perfect photography opportunities and contemplative moments.
Practical Visiting: Golf cart or taxi from Centro: 20 minutes. Entry to the sculpture garden costs approximately $6 USD; the lighthouse and cliff areas remain free. Arrive early morning for sunrise or late afternoon for golden hour lighting.
Nearby Attractions: Playa Garrafón provides calm swimming and snorkeling after clifftop exploring. The beach remains less crowded than Playa Norte, perfect for peaceful reflection.
Sunset Alternative: While Punta Sur faces east, the nearby western shore offers spectacular sunset viewing. Many visitors watch sunrise at Punta Sur, then return for sunset from the opposite coast.
Travel deeper, not faster. Live well. Dream big. Discover more.
Born in England, Sarah developed her wanderlust at a young age as she traveled around Europe with her parents. As a young adult she spent every penny she could on experiences as opposed to possessions. Eventually she found a way to earn a living doing what she loved: traveling, writing and capturing images of the wondrous world we live in. When not on the go Sarah enjoys time in her “sometimes home” of Vancouver.