Just 15 minutes away by ferry from Cancun’s bustling Hotel Zone lies Isla Mujeres, a small slice of paradise in the Caribbean. The island’s laid-back charm contrasts sharply with the hustle of Cancun, offering visitors a peaceful escape where the pace of life slows down. At just five miles long and a half-mile wide, Isla Mujeres packs in stunning beaches, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, all while offering some of the best outdoor activities in Mexico.
According to Zach Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico, “Isla Mujeres is a great alternative to Cancun, with excellent beaches, crystal-clear turquoise sea, no seaweed, and a much more local feel.” It’s no wonder Travel + Leisure named it one of the best islands in Mexico and Central and South America.
The island’s history runs deep, having once served as a sacred site for the Mayan goddess Ixchel, the deity of fertility. Today, it is a thriving coastal community where modern luxury blends seamlessly with its rich heritage. From pristine beaches and luxury accommodations to rich cultural sites and outdoor adventures, Isla Mujeres is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Mexican experience.
Best Hotels & Resorts in Isla Mujeres
Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets
Secrets’ newest adult-only all-inclusive resort is nestled in the southern part of Isla Mujeres, away from the bustling Playa Norte area. Its remote location ensures a peaceful retreat, but that doesn’t mean it lacks in entertainment or luxury. The resort boasts several restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, and The Top rooftop bar is a must-visit for panoramic ocean views. One of its highlights is the Save Our Sharks program, a sustainability initiative focused on protecting the local shark population while educating guests on marine life.
Privilege Aluxes Hotel
Located right on Playa Norte, one of the island’s most famous beaches, Privilege Aluxes is perfect for those who want easy access to the island’s nightlife, restaurants, and shops. This five-star, adults-only resort offers luxurious suites with private Jacuzzis or plunge pools, making it the ultimate spot for a romantic getaway. The resort’s location offers guests easy access to the sun-drenched beaches, while the exclusive suites offer breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Hotel Izla
If you’re an early riser and love soaking in the beauty of a sunrise over the ocean, Hotel Izla is your ideal stay. This sleek, modern property features an oceanfront pool and a small private beach. However, the crown jewel of the hotel is the rooftop infinity pool, which offers uninterrupted views of the Caribbean. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of a secluded beach while only being a short distance from Isla Mujeres’ attractions.
Belo Isla Mujeres
This boutique hotel is a hidden gem on Playa Norte. With just 65 guest rooms and suites, it offers an intimate atmosphere for those who want privacy with a touch of luxury. The two-bedroom Luxury Ocean Front Villa comes with a dining room, kitchen, and stunning views of the Caribbean. Guests can also enjoy the rooftop pool, which is equipped with private Bali beds, hot tubs, a bar, and live DJ sets for a chic, relaxing vibe.
Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres
Explore the Isla Mujeres Underwater Museum
One of the most unique attractions on Isla Mujeres is the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Located just off the southern coast of the island, the museum features over 600 sculptures submerged beneath the water. These sculptures serve a dual purpose: they are visually captivating and act as artificial reefs to promote the growth of coral and marine life. Visitors can explore the museum by snorkeling or scuba diving, getting an up-close look at the eerie yet beautiful sculptures that are slowly being reclaimed by the sea.
Erika Mitzunaga, PR director for Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun All-Inclusive Spa Resort, says, “The Isla Mujeres Underwater Museum is one of the island’s top attractions. It plays a vital role in preserving the natural coral reefs while giving visitors a memorable experience.”
Swim With Whale Sharks
Isla Mujeres is renowned for being one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. From May to September, these gentle giants gather in an area known as The Blue, located about two hours by boat from the island. Tours will take you out to the open ocean, where you can swim alongside these magnificent creatures, some of which can grow up to 40 feet long. Despite their size, whale sharks are harmless filter-feeders that glide peacefully through the water.
Relax at Playa Norte
Playa Norte is often considered one of the best beaches not just in Mexico but in the world. Its powder-soft white sand and calm, clear waters make it the perfect spot to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax with a drink in hand. Lined with beach clubs, restaurants, and hotels, Playa Norte has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a lively beach day or a quiet spot to watch the sunset.
Bike or Golf Cart Around the Island
Unlike nearby Isla Holbox, cars are allowed on Isla Mujeres, but most locals and tourists prefer to get around by golf cart or bicycle. Golf carts are available for rent across the island, and renting one is a fun and efficient way to explore all of Isla Mujeres’ hidden corners. Whether you’re cruising down the coast or heading inland to explore the local shops and restaurants, traveling by golf cart is an experience in itself.
Mitzunaga recommends renting a golf cart early in the morning to avoid the heat. “Start early, rent a golf cart, and drive the five-mile-long island, stopping at North Beach, Punta Sur, and the turtle farm managed by a local cooperative,” she says.
Best Nightlife in Isla Mujeres
Xantolo
Xantolo offers an exciting nightlife experience with its mix of regional specialties and lively salsa music. Located on Playa Norte, it’s a great spot for dinner, but it truly comes alive after 10:30 p.m. when salsa music kicks off. The festive atmosphere, combined with creative cocktails and dancing, makes it a favorite for those looking to dance the night away.
Stingray
This two-story bar in the heart of downtown Isla Mujeres is known for its casual vibe and fun atmosphere. With swing chairs surrounding the bar and live music performances upstairs under a rooftop palapa, Stingray offers a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Downstairs, the party continues with karaoke, often lasting until the early hours of the morning.
The Top
This luxurious rooftop lounge at Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets is open exclusively to guests and offers one of the most elegant nightlife experiences on the island. With low-slung white couches, hanging lanterns, and billowing curtains, it’s the perfect place for sipping cocktails while enjoying sweeping views of the Caribbean. Rabinor says, “The Top offers magnificent views over the ocean and top-notch service, making it a must-visit for those seeking a more refined experience.”
Best Restaurants in Isla Mujeres
Marbella
Known for its beachfront location and top-quality seafood, Marbella is a must-visit. The restaurant offers an array of grilled seafood, crudo, and a stunning raw bar, perfect for indulging in after a day on the beach. Mitzunaga describes it as “barefoot luxury,” offering guests a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
ZaZa Yacht & Beach Club
ZaZa isn’t just a restaurant – it’s an experience. With its own private dock, saltwater pool, and beachfront access, ZaZa is perfect for those looking to spend the entire day lounging and enjoying the finer things in life. Guests can choose between general day passes or upgrade to all-inclusive options.
Loncheria Alexia y Geovanny
For a more local experience, Loncheria Alexia y Geovanny offers traditional homemade food, including some of the best tacos and fresh fish on the island. This restaurant is a favorite among locals, offering an authentic taste of Isla Mujeres’ culinary heritage. Rabinor highly recommends it for visitors wanting to step away from high-end dining and enjoy local flavors.
Coco Restaurant & Beach Bar
Located directly on Playa Norte, Coco Restaurant & Beach Bar is the perfect spot to end the day. With an incredible view of the sunset, the restaurant offers dishes like fresh fish and steak skewers paired with tropical cocktails. The second-floor seating provides the best vantage point for watching the day fade into night over the Caribbean Sea.
Mitzunaga recommends trying the island’s famous Tikin Xic fish, a local dish marinated in achiote, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection.
Best Time to Visit Isla Mujeres
Mexico overall is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit Isla Mujeres is from December to March when days are bright and sunny and evenings are a bit cooler and breezy. The average high during these months is 83 degrees during the day. Visit Isla Mujeres in February or March for the Isla Carnival, a five-day festival of dancing, parades, and performances.
The high season is from January through April, when the weather is at its best but prices tend to be at their highest. Prices will be lower between May and December, but the low season (when you’ll find the best deals) is from September to November. This time, however, coincides with hurricane season, so expect a lot more rainfall during these months. The wettest month in Isla Mujeres is October.
How to Get to Isla Mujeres
While visitors can dock their own boats and yachts at the many clubs on the island, most people visit Isla Mujeres from the Gran Puerto Cancun ferry dock. The dock is located in Puerto Juarez, a few minutes from downtown Cancun. Ultramar ferry boats leave every half hour from 5 a.m. until 9:30 p.m., and every hour after that. The crossing takes 15 minutes.
Alternatively, the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun All-Inclusive Spa Resort, located in the Cancun Hotel Zone, has its own ferry stop for Isla Mujeres. Guests of the hotel get complimentary round-trip ferry tickets on a first-come, first-served basis by registering with the pool concierge the night before.
How to Get Around Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is not a car-free island, but most locals and visitors get around on two wheels or golf carts. Golf carts and scooter rentals are available all over Playa Norte. Guests can circumnavigate the island in about two hours, though plan for more time because you’ll certainly want to stop and see the sights along the way.
