Isla Mujeres, known as the Island of Women, is definitely worth a day trip from Cancun. But if you have the time, we highly recommend staying for a week or longer to truly enjoy this idyllic island!
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your stay on Isla Mujeres:
The fast ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres is both safe and efficient. If you prefer air conditioning, head into the main cabin. For fresh air and great views, the upper deck is the place to be. Large bags are stored at the back of the boat to keep the aisles clear, which adds to the onboard safety.
Ferries to Isla Mujeres leave from Puerto Juarez and three other spots in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. They depart every half hour from 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM, with a few additional departures at 9:30, 10:30, and 11:30 PM. Return ferries from Isla Mujeres to Cancun also run every half hour from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with extra trips at 10:00 PM, 11:00 PM, and midnight. The fare for a round trip is 146 pesos.
After arriving in Puerto Juarez, you can take a collectivo for 8 pesos to get to the ADO Bus Station downtown.
For budget travelers, check out Poc Na Hostel on Av. Matamoros and Carlos Lazo. It’s known as a party place, but offers camping for 80 pesos per person, dorm beds ranging from 145 to 185 pesos, and double rooms starting at 350 pesos. A small breakfast is included.
For a midrange option, we recommend Hotel Las Palmas on 20 Av. Guerrero. Rooms cost between $65 and $100. The hotel provides clean, spacious rooms, wi-fi, a communal kitchen, and beach amenities like towels, air mattresses, and coolers. There’s also a library, a masseuse, a terrace with a small pool, and plenty of seating areas.
Isla Mujeres offers a wide variety of food options. From Italian and French to Cuban and Mexican, there’s something for everyone. The pedestrian-only Hidalgo Street has fancier restaurants, but if you’re looking for cheaper eats, head to the local restaurants on Av. Guerrero in front of the Mercado. Here, you can find four stalls selling affordable local food. Meals like big breakfasts, tortas, and soups range from 25 to 45 pesos.
Nearby, on Av. Guerrero, Ruben’s offers large portions and great prices, while Pita Amore serves amazing chicken pitas for only 65 pesos. For a great coffee and breakfast, try Roosters Cafe & Bistro, located at several spots around the island. They offer a wide range of options at reasonable prices.
If you’re in the mood for Italian, check out Caffe Italia where you can enjoy proper pastas, appetizers, salads, and pizzas ranging from 90 to 130 pesos. For drinks, there’s a local cantina across from Caffe Italia with cheap beers and small tapas, but it closes around 6:30 PM.
The island’s main draw is its stunning beaches, especially Playa Norte, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. For more adventurous activities, scuba diving and snorkeling are popular, with visibility up to 30 meters. From mid-May to September, you can even spot Whale Sharks. Choose a tour operator that respects marine life.
Exploring the island by golf cart is fun and convenient. Rentals are available everywhere, with prices around 500 pesos for a 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM rental. Bicycles and motorbikes are also available.
Isla Mujeres has a charming church and a main plaza perfect for people watching. The promenade along the water’s edge is great for jogging or walking, though it can be quite hot during the day, so don’t forget sunscreen and water.
The local market on Av. Guerrero offers fresh fruits and vegetables at good prices. At the southern tip of the island, Punta Sur, you’ll find a National Park, small Maya ruins, and beautiful views. Bringing your own picnic can be a fun and budget-friendly outing.
The high season runs from November to March, which can make the beaches busy. To enjoy quieter times, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of October or May.
Isla Mujeres has a perfect balance of relaxation and activity, making it the ideal spot for at least a week’s stay. For a truly relaxing experience, some even choose to rent apartments for longer periods. Consider Isla Mujeres for your next trip; you won’t be disappointed.
