THE MAGIC OF ISLA IS...
STUNNING BEACHES
VIBRANT CULTURE
FRIENDLY PEOPLE
AMAZING FOOD
All You Need to Know
Isla Basics
Isla Mujeres (Island of Women) is about a 30min drive from the Cancun airport and a short 20 minute ferry ride to the island. Isla is a small island in Mexico’s beautiful Caribbean sea, about 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) long and is broken down into different areas of Downtown (Centro) – North Beach (Playa Norte), the Airport Strip, the Colonias, South Point (Punta Sur) and Sac Bajo. Options to get around the island are by renting a golf cart, scooter or taking taxis or the bus. The main downtown area is compact and very walkable. Taxis around the island will take you anywhere for about 3-10usd, but for touring the island, the best option is to rent a golf cart.
Whether you are looking for information on how to get to or around the island, things to do and see, or places to eat, stay or play, you came to the right place.
Visit our Isla Top 5 Lists for recommendations, or join our Facebook community of over 300,000 members to ask questions and get recommendations from others who know and love Isla.
Or, if you’d prefer personalized help planning your trip, visit
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Isla is ideal for:
Couples, Solo travelers, Friends, Families, Beach goers, Digital nomads, Ocean lovers, Yogis
Activities:
Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Sunset Cruises, Catamaran Trips, Fishing, Swimming with the Whale Sharks (May - Sept), Exploring the Island by Golf Cart, Cooking Classes, Isla Contoy, Culture & Food Tours, Yoga, Shopping and Off Island Tours
Other Services and Areas of Interest:
Food & Grocery Delivery, Beach Clubs, Photography Sessions, Massages, Spas & Salons, Weddings Planners, North Beach, South Point, Exploring Hidalgo, Cafes, Restaurants & Bars
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Best Time to Visit:
Isla is one of those places that you can visit anytime of year, assuming you like hot and sunny, which it is most of the time. When it does rain it is usually for short bursts *unless there is.a 'Norte' (North wind) or storm rolling through, which can last for a few days. The temperature is generally hot, but comfortable in the winter months with a cool breeze on the Caribbean side and some fresh days here and there. If you’re looking for a warm holiday getaway, this is the perfect time to visit Isla. However, it is also the busiest. Summer is typically super hot and densely humid. Hurricane season is from June to November and hard to predict these days, but overall the wettest months are from September to November, which is a quieter time of year for the island.
From the airport to the ferry, to the island and back again...
Transportation Options
The Cancun airport is approximately a 30 minute drive to the Puerto Juarez Ferry Terminal.
There are several options that will get you to the island. It depends more than anything on your budget,
Budget:
From the Cancun airport you can catch an ADO bus (similar to a greyhound) and this bus will take you to the downtown Cancun bus terminal (about 30 mins). From there you can catch a public, local bus to the ferry terminal OR you can catch a taxi from the bus station to the ferry terminal.
Moderate:
From the Cancun airport you can catch any number of shuttles, but keep in mind that they are shared and sometimes Isla Mujeres is the last stop, after visiting the hotel zone of Cancun. Although this option is reasonably priced, it will take longer.
Convienient:
From the Cancun airport you can have a private van pick you up and drop you off directly at the ferry terminal. For this option we undoubtedly, (from experience), recommend CARM Tours & Transfers. You can also book your ferry tickets online with them when you reserve your transfer.
Taxis are always available from the Airport, but would be more expensive than a private transfer.
Super Convenient:
Are you coming to Isla Mujeres and don’t want to wait in long lines for the crowded ferry or you have a very late or early flight and don't want to spend the night in Cancun? Isla Fun Tours can help you arrange private transportation direct from the airport to your hotel. It's also a great option if you are travelling in a group.
Service includes:
Round trip private airport Shuttle
Private Boat ride to and from Isla Mujeres
Complimentary Taxis to/from your accommodation
Traveler Insurance
The Ferry...
takes about 20mins to cross to the island. You can purchase your ticket ahead of time or at the ferry terminal.
**please note that the tickets are NOT time specific. You can use your ticket for up to six months (policies may change).
Please check the Ultramar Website for the ferry schedules and fares.
Returning Home:
Upon return to the airport, if you have not arranged transportation and would like to take a taxi (please note it's always cheaper TO the airport than FROM). For the best taxi fare, exit the ferry terminal, walk across the street and take a left to the OXXO store. Note that the closer you are to the ferry, the more expensive the taxis will be.
Getting Around Isla
Once you are on the island you can walk or take a taxi to your hotel. Given the usual heat and humidity on the island we suggest that if you are going to walk, that you hire a porter with a cart and bicycle (there are many upon arrival) to help you get your luggage to your hotel, remember that they only work for tips, so tip generously.
Otherwise the public bus and taxis are also a cheap option to get around the island.
Golf Cart Rentals
Golf Cart Rentals on the island vary from hourly rentals, daily rentals and 24 hour rentals. It is a VERY competitive market and not much room for deals and discounts. If you are looking for a rental for 24 hours or more, we suggest you book ahead of time, especially in high seasons. If you are looking for a rental for the day, you can just show up the morning of. Please contact specific providers for prices.
Keep in mind to ask a few questions, such as: Are all seats front facing or back to back? How many seats? Do they pick you up and deliver? Do they refill the gas for you? Will they take your drivers license as a deposit upon receiving your golf cart? What is their insurance coverage? What forms of payment do they accept etc.
Also please note that due to many alcohol related accidents over the years with tourists and golf carts there is now a 0 tolerance policy for drinking and driving - this includes golf carts. No open containers in the cart either. The police monitor this regularly and fines will be charged. Please have a designated driver or there are always many taxis as well as guided tours around the island as an alternative.
Things to Do and See
Best of Isla with Jenny Penny
Your Isla, personally planned with local knowledge & trusted connections.
There’s plenty to see and do on Isla — and sometimes the hardest part is deciding what’s right for you.
If you’d like personalized recommendations and help putting it all together, I can create a plan around your interests, travel style, budget and time — and, if you prefer, handle your selected bookings too.
North Beach
is THE beach to go to, with endless white sand bottom and crystal clear waters, it is been named in the top ten world beaches various times, for a very good reason. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds. During the day you can throw your towel on the sand or you can rent lounge chairs and an umbrella for a reasonable price. Always be clear on the price before you rent.
Downtown
If you take a walk down Hidalgo (the main pedestrian drag located in downtown) you will come across many restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and soon to be familiar faces. The island is pretty small and very laid back, however downtown can be pretty busy at certain times of the year, which can make it difficult to find parking. All things to consider when figuring out where on the island you want to stay.
South Point
is located at the southern most point of the island and most easterly point of Mexico, it is the first to see the sunrise each day. There is a small ruin at the tip of the island, along with a beautiful collection of Mayan statues & a beautiful walkway along the water, to enter costs $100mxn. With some of the best views on the island you'll definitely want to make a stop here. You can also visit the many iguanas that call this beautiful spot their home.
Beach Clubs
Each beach club is a little different, they all have their pros and cons and have their own policies & fees. There are beach clubs all around the island, who all accept some kind of payment for using their facilities. It is always best to ask before you enter, as each one is different. Some are more expensive than others, some have pools, some don't, but what they do all offer is food, drinks, lounge chairs or beds to relax on beach.
Cafes, Restaurants & Bars
There is no shortage of places to eat and drink on Isla. You will find an array of cafes, bars & restaurant open all hours of the day and night. You will find everything from cheap tacos to fancy dinners, great coffees, margaritas and even some special tasty drinks prepared by mixologists. There are a lot of restaurants located downtown, but don't forget to venture out to the rest of the island and you will find some really special gems.
Nightlife
is definitely a lot quieter than the Cancun scene, although you can usually find something going on any night of the week on the main pedestrian street Av. Hidalgo. Most of what you will find is salsa, top 40, rock or latin music as well as some electronic music parties in a couple different locations downtown and further south of the island.. Many bars and restaurants have live music as well.
Snorkeling & Diving
The best snorkeling is by boat, you can visit the lighthouse, the underwater museum as well as Manchones reef. There is also some snorkeling in the small bay, south of Hotel Mia or Garrafon Park is another spot for onshore snorkeling.
There are plenty of diving options in Isla as well as sites near Cancun depending on your certification level and weather conditions.
Fishing
Whether you're looking to go out for the day with a group or maybe just a couple friends, there are many reputable companies on Isla that can cater to your needs. They can tell you about the type of fishing they offer as well as what boats they have etc.
Charters are available for a half day or full day. for beginners to experts and fishermen from all around the world.
Sunset Cruises
The best way to watch the sunset on Isla is on a boat with good company, delicious and refreshing drinks on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy spectacular views of the sunset as a private or shared trip. You will also get the chance to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Whale Shark Tours
May through September
Hundreds of whale sharks gather in the waters near Isla Mujeres each year. Tours will generally include breakfast, snorkeling gear, 8-10 people per boat, a 60-90 minute trip out to the whale shark area, and then 3-4 trips in the water with the sharks for 5-15 minutes each time, depending on the number of sharks. The return trip includes lunch, ceviche, and a snorkel at a local reef.
Isla Contoy
Is a nature lovers paradise, teeming with birds, reptiles, turtles and Ixlache reef is home to an abundance of fish, corals, green sea turtles, octopus and dolphins.
Before arriving to the natural paradise of Contoy, visitors can stop along the way and snorkel in its naturally protected waters.
Once on the island you will be guided around different parts of the island, along with some free time at the beach.
Cultura Cruisers Food Tours
is a cultural experience exploring the colonias with your guide, José, a 4th generation Isleño. He will share the authentic flavors, history & culture of Isla with you. Your belly & heart will be full from traditionally made foods from cocina economicas, street vendors, restaurants, & locals’ homes. Cruise on the roads less traveled. Golf Cart, Bicycle and Walking Tours available.
Isla Driver Robby
offers amazing tours around the island by golf cart and/or boat and they even have a night tour. It's a great way to familiarize your self with the island and visit the best spots, including some hidden gems. A spectacular day of sightseeing and relaxing can be customized by your group or you can leave it up to them. Keep in mind that Isla Mujeres is a zero tolerance island so this is a great way to enjoy a beer or two and not worry about driving!
Off Island Tours
Whether you want to see Mayan ruins, to visit Chichen Izta or Cenotes, to fly above the jungle on zip lines, or on the ground in ATV's, to visit one of the many theme parks in Cancun or snorkel on the 2nd largest reef, or any other adventure for that matter, it's all possible.
We don't actually book tours but we can always help point you in the right direction.
Shopping
You have the typical items available like blankets, jewelry, stone carvings and silver, but be very careful as most of it is not authentic and actually comes from China. A couple shops we love with unique items are MrOpal IslaMujeres , Isla Mujeres Women's Beading Co-op, Galeria Elemento Arte, El Negrito boutique, Gianeti Home & Fragrance, Diosa Tropical and Jenny Penny Beach Boutique
Yoga Classes
Isla offers a variety of yoga classes in a variety of locations around the island. Whether you're looking for a traditional Hatha practice based in the original principals out of India or Ashtanga, Vinyasa or even Pilates there is something for everyone.
There are also opportunities to get your Yoga Teacher Training, which requires a couple weeks stay in Isla.
Cooking Classes
There are a few different cooking classes available on the island. Each one focuses on teaching some typical recipes from the region, using local ingredients and recipes passed on through generations.
Enjoy a fun experience with your friends, family or loved ones and learn recipes that you can take back home and show your friends how to make the best Chile Poblano, Enchiladas, Empanadas etc.
Massages & Salons
Whether you are looking for a relaxing massage on the beach or something a little more private, even in your accommodation, it's all possible. Isla also has a few salons offering a variety of services from manicures and pedicures to botox or getting your hair done for a special event such as wedding etc.
Weddings
Isla Mujeres is the perfect place for a destination wedding, with stunning sunsets and with one of the top 10 beaches in the world you can't go wrong.
There are wedding planners who can arrange everything for you or you can book services such as location, flowers, photographer hair/make up etc separately.
It is possible to get legally married or have a spiritual ceremony, it's all up to you.
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Photography Sessions
Visiting Isla Mujeres for the first time or tenth time is always an unforgettable experience. There are several amazing photographers on the island that can help you and your loved ones capture those precious moments. There are so many scenic spots around the island for this experience, it's all up to you. Photo, video or drone packages are available, you just need to choose the date and time.
