For such a compact and serene spot, Isla Mujeres — an island just off the coast of Cancun, Mexico — has a surprising number of activities to enjoy.
Isla Mujeres, which translates to the “Island of Women” in Spanish, is named after the Mayan Goddess Ixchel, the Goddess of fertility and happiness. While Mexico offers many incredible places to visit, Isla Mujeres is a must-see.
You can reach this island paradise of warm turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and white sandy beaches with just a quick 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun. Though it’s perfect for a day trip, staying longer is recommended, especially if you’re looking to escape the party scene in Cancun and enjoy a more relaxing island break.
To get to Isla Mujeres from the Cancun Airport, you have several options: taking a bus, hiring a taxi at the airport, or booking private transportation in advance. Many people opt for private transportation through Cancun Airport Transportation, which offers a private van for $45 one-way or $75 round trip. These vans come with a bilingual driver, air conditioning, and insurance.
Playa Norte, or North Beach, is a popular spot just a 10-minute walk from the ferry pier. Named one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, its calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families or anyone looking to float and relax.
Punta Sur, located on the southern tip of the island, offers stunning views and the opportunity to visit the Pre-Colombian Mayan Ruins of Ixchel. For a relaxing afternoon of snorkeling and drinks, Garaffon de Castilla is a great choice. For just 100 pesos ($5), you get access to lounge chairs, showers, change rooms, and snorkel gear.
If you want to explore the island further, renting a golf cart is popular and costs around $65 per day for a 2-seater. For those looking to enjoy some bars, there’s even a golf cart pub crawl, complete with a driver to handle the transportation while you enjoy the drinks and snacks provided.
Yoga enthusiasts will find paradise in The Treehouse, which overlooks Playa Norte and offers sunrise and sunset yoga classes. Prices start at $20 for a 90-minute class.
The “Sea Wall Murals” are another notable attraction on Isla Mujeres, created by top street artists to raise awareness of threatened marine species in the Yucatan Peninsula. You can explore these on your own or join a tour for additional sightseeing around the island.
Isla Contoy, a natural wildlife reserve and bird sanctuary located 30 km north of Isla Mujeres, makes for an excellent day tour. Limited to 200 tourists per day, this reserve is crucial for nesting sea birds and sea turtles.
One of Isla Mujeres’ most popular activities is visiting the MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte), an underwater museum featuring over 500 sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor. Tours are available by glass-bottom boat, snorkeling, or scuba diving.
Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy deep-sea fishing, inshore fishing, and spearfishing in the turquoise waters of Isla Mujeres. To swim with whale sharks, visit between June and September and book a tour with a reputable, eco-conscious company.
For beer lovers, a visit to Isla Brewing Company is essential. Locally brewed craft beers are a highlight, and you can even earn a 10 pesos discount by returning your bottles for recycling.
Diving enthusiasts can explore some of the best scuba diving in the Caribbean, including sites like the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks, Machones Reef, Tavos Reef, and the site of the Navy Boat Shipwreck. Snorkelers can start at El Farito, perfect for beginners, or join a tour to find the best spots around the island.
Animal lovers should visit Isla Animals, where volunteers can help with walking dogs, grooming, and assisting at the spay/neutering clinic. The Mercado Municipal in Centro is a great spot for authentic, inexpensive food, including the best fish tacos and empanadas.
In the evening, head to the Zocalo to enjoy local Mexican street food, music, entertainment, and dancing. For shopping, Avenida Rueda Medina offers the best finds, including tequila, mezcal, folk art, silver jewelry, hammocks, and ceramics.
End your day with a sunset sailing tour around Isla Mujeres, or if you’re traveling with a group, consider renting a private yacht for a luxurious day on the water. For an active way to explore, join a cycling tour around the island with a local guide.
Honored as a “Pueblo Magico” for its natural beauty, history, and culture, Isla Mujeres is a perfect vacation destination for families, couples, solo travelers, and backpackers. With its warm azure waters, year-round perfect temperatures, and a plethora of activities, Isla Mujeres is a destination you’ll want to return to again and again.
