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[Guide] Things to do in Isla Mujeres

With our comprehensive guide, you can discover the best dining spots and accommodations on the island, ensuring an unforgettable experience in Isla Mujeres.

What is the origin of Isla Mujeres?

Isla Mujeres is located in the Caribbean Sea, sharing borders with the municipality of Benito Juárez, better known as Cancun; both belong to the Yucatán peninsula in the southeast of Mexico in the State of Quintana Roo. Only a few know that the municipality of Isla Mujeres has a wide part of the continental territory, so perhaps without realizing it, you can be in Isla Mujeres and not in Cancun, the central tourist pole in the region. 

At the southern tip of the island are vestiges of Mayan temples. Archaeologists know that Isla Mujeres was a sanctuary dedicated to Ixchel, the Mayan Isla Mujeres goddess of fertility. Mayan women had to pilgrimage to the island as part of their transition from girl to woman. Today, the pilgrimage to the island is carried out by lovers of marine animals and the beauty of its tropical nature. Isla Mujeres was also a refuge and home to famous pirates and slave traders, such as Fermín Mundaca and Marecheaga.

Regarding its history, the island was discovered by the Spanish expedition of Francisco Hernández de Córdoba in 1517. Before its discovery, in pre-Hispanic times, the island was consecrated to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of the Moon, love, and fertility, who received offerings with feminine forms that the believers left on its beaches. When the Spanish conquerors arrived and observed the figures, they baptized the island as Isla Mujeres.

How to get to Isla Mujeres? 

To get to the island, you must take a ferry from Puerto Juárez or Punta Sam (if traveling with a car). The trip lasts about 20 minutes from Puerto Juárez (Cancun) and takes 45 minutes from Punta Sam. Another alternative is to get there on a yacht or by taking a tour on a sailboat or catamaran. This last option makes the visit much more attractive since you will not be a simple passenger on a ferry, but you will be able to observe all the different shades of blue and live the experience of sailing in the Caribbean Sea.

The island’s warm and transparent waters are the perfect home for dolphins and turtles, and snorkeling in the surrounding reefs is one of the most attractive activities.

How to move around Isla Mujeres

We will tell you all about getting around Isla Mujeres.

How do I get around Isla Mujeres walking?

If your hotel is located in the North zone and your plans are to enjoy the beach, sip on some drinks, and hang out around town, you can walk easily anywhere you need to.

Isla Mujeres is a relatively small island where most restaurants, bars, shopping markets, and, of course, the best beaches are located in a small area.

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Bus city tour in Isla Mujeres

The newest concept on the island is to take a bus tour! Isleños offers four routes to all the popular destinations in Isla Mujeres, such as Chedraui, Dolphin Discovery, Zama Beach Club, and Punta Sur. The price for a day pass for tourists is $9 USD or $175 MXN, and you can visit up to 10 places. If you wish to take the bus to a specific point, you can also do so for $2 USD or $38 MXN.

The buses operate Monday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and if you need one more reason to choose this option, they are very comfortable and have AC. You can visit their website here for more information on all the available destinations.

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How do I get around Isla Mujeres in the Golf cart?

Now, visiting Isla Mujeres is different if you don’t experience renting a golf cart! This is the most popular means of transportation on the island. The longer you book, the cheaper the rental. But even if you might not need it, we recommend that you rent it for at least 2 hours, bring your speaker, and set to explore without a destination in mind.

The hourly rate is usually $15 to $20 USD, and there are numerous rental companies that will be hard to miss. If you want to know more about where to rent one and other costs and information, you can check out our blog “How much does it cost to rent a golf cart in Isla Mujeres?”.

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How do I get a taxi in Isla Mujeres?

There are two ways to use taxis in Isla Mujeres: per hour for an island tour or from point A to point B. The first option is ideal if you want to see a little bit of everything quickly and costs about 150 pesos per hour.

The second option works if you know exactly where you want to go and plan to stay there for a while. A regular taxi drive should cost between $20 MXN to go to a place nearby up to a $100 MXN to go to the other side of the island. However, the cost may rise if you take a taxi from the stand next to the ferry dock.

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Can I rent a Scooter in Isla Mujeres?

Another option, just as fun as the golf cart but cheaper and ideal for couples or solo travelers, is to rent a scooter. You can find them in the same places that offer golf carts. Keep in mind that you need a motorcycle driving license to rent one.

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Where to stay in Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres offers lodging options for every traveler, from cozy guesthouses to beachfront resorts, ensuring a fantastic stay for all visitors.

Mia Reef All-Inclusive Hotel

It's located in Playa Norte, the best beach in Isla Mujeres. The shallow waters are perfect for kids, while adults may relax in their spa. This 5-star hotel is all-inclusive, featuring four restaurants, snack bars, and a coffee shop.

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Selina Poc Na

This hostel was previously Poc Na, the first hostel in Latin America. Selina has locations in around 60 places worldwide and is famous for organizing local activities, hosting fabulous parties, and providing shared workspaces.

This is the perfect spot to meet fellow travelers if you're traveling alone. The only downside to this place is that you cannot swim on this side of the ocean, but you can walk a couple of streets down to some of the best beaches in Playa Norte to take a dip.

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Hotel Beló

Hotel Beló is relatively new but has become one of the most popular hotels in Isla Mujeres. It offers 70 modernly decorated rooms, two restaurants, a giant pool, and hot tubs, but its best amenity is its rooftop beach club, Top by Belo. Here, you can relax on a Bali bed close to the pool and be amazed by the views of the sunset.

This hotel is located right next door to Ice Bar Isla Mujeres and is 6 minutes' walking distance from some interesting tourist spots, like the Tortugranja, a turtle aquarium.

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Nomads Hotel Hostel Beach Club

With a very similar concept to Selina, Nomads combines the experience of lodging and mingling. Nomads is famous for hosting fun events such as Latin and karaoke nights.

On top of that, it has a modern organic style that creates the perfect ambiance for relaxing and taking Instagram-worthy pictures. 

 

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Privilege Aluxes

If you're traveling on a special occasion or want to enjoy a getaway with your loved one, Privilege Aluxes is the place for you. It is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort, so you won't have to worry about spending extra or finding a quiet place.

We recommend getting a room with a private terrace and pool to enjoy an exclusive and romantic stay with views to die for.

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Where to eat in Isla Mujeres

Discover traditional Mexican flavors and fresh seafood at our top 5 local eateries in Isla Mujeres.

Mar-bella

Mar-Bella Rawbar & Grill in Isla Mujeres is the best culinary delight for seafood aficionados. It blends Caribbean flavors with fresh, quality ingredients. Located at a stunning spot ideal for watching sunsets, this restaurant is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and dishes like shrimp tacos and ceviche that celebrate local cuisine. Perfect for romantic evenings or gatherings, Mar-Bella combines excellent food, scenic views, and a warm ambiance, making it a top choice for experiencing the essence of Isla Mujeres' seafood tradition.

Adress: Perimetral poniente #080 lote 002, Isla Mujeres 77400, Mexico.

Phone: +52 998 577 8318

Taboo Isla Mujeres Beach Club

Taboo Isla Mujeres Beach Club offers a sensory experience with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, creative cocktails, live entertainment, and stylish design. It's the perfect venue for various events and exclusive yacht tours, promising a unique beach club experience.

Adress: Calle Sac Bajo SM 007 MZ 69 LT 29 Fracc Parios Gaviota, Zona insular Fracc Parios Gaviota, Isla Mujeres 77400, Mexico.

Phone: +52 998 690 0286

Zama Beach Club

Zama Beach Club offers a luxurious beach experience with fine dining and entertainment in a uniquely photogenic, exclusive, and tropically chic environment. Guests can enjoy cozy amenities, private parking, a secluded beach, hammocks, lounge chairs, and great music for a memorable day under the sun.

Adress: Av Rueda Medina Manzana 1 entre Lopez Mateos y Playa Norte, Colonia Centro, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R.

Phone: +52 998 877 0739

IXI Beach Club

Enjoy delicious local dishes that fuse island cuisine with ancient Mayan recipes. The best thing about this beach club is that it is in Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It has a beach area with lounge chairs, a palapa with a refreshment bar, restrooms and showers, and spectacular murals of the Maya Goddess of fertility, Ixchél. Check out their menu on their website.

Address:

Av Rueda Medina Mza 1, entre Lopez Mateos y Playa Norte, Centro, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R.

Phone: +52 998 217 4062

Punta Blanca

Punta Blanca, located on Isla Mujeres' North Beach, is a beach club offering a full buffet or an exquisite a la carte menu. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Playa Norte, shop at the local stores, and enjoy the club's additional amenities. In short, Punta Blanca offers a complete experience of relaxation and fun in the heart of the Caribbean.

Adress: Av Rueda Medina 9, Centro - Supmza. 001, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R.

Madera Food & Art

You cannot leave Isla Mujeres without trying a delicious shrimp burger made with artisan bread. The excellent service is so you will be delighted with Madera Food & Art delicacies in Isla Mujeres. This place offers international, rich Caribbean, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free food.

Address: Payo Obispo, 8 MZA 262 Lt 23, Isla Mujeres 77400 México

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Los tacos de humo

This place is an excellent option for delighting your palate with some delicious fish tacos. You can also enjoy the house specialties. They have a delightful menu you will love. You can find its varied menu on its website. 

 Address:

SM-001 Centro m13 Av. Benito Juárez, Zona Isla Mujeres, Isla Mujeres 77400 México

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Javi's Cantina Restaurant Bar

Live music, delicious food, and endless experiences are what you will find at Javi's Cantina in Isla Mujeres, a restaurant bar in the Mexican Caribbean. It offers Mexican, Caribbean, seafood, and grill food. It also has vegan and gluten-free options.

Address: Av Juarez #12 Two blocks north of Ultramar Ferry, between Av. Madero and Calle Abasolo, Isla Mujeres 77400 México.

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What to do in Isla Mujeres

All there is to do is go to Isla Mujeres.

Paddleboarding

Do the most relaxing activity in the Caribbean, where you will be able to explore the sea in another way. This fun activity involves standing on a surfboard to navigate the sea with a paddle. You can rent it for an hour at various beach clubs and hotels.

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Snorkel

It is a very pleasant activity that you can do on the island. You will live with wonderful colorful fish, and you will know the most important coral reef in Mexico. Snorkeling will make you love the aquatic world.

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Garrafon Park

Get to know one of the most beautiful places on Isla Mujeres, which has incredible turquoise waters. Garrafon is a water park where you can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, zip lines, temazcal, swimming pools, and hammocks, among others. Admission is between 89 and 190 USD.

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Hacienda Mundaca

Learn about the story of Fermín Mundaca, a pirate and slave trader who left a story on Isla Mujeres. This character took refuge and lived on the Island. Visit this Hacienda to learn more about the history of Isla Mujeres.

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Punta Sur

You cannot leave Isla Mujeres without seeing its sculptures and cliffs overlooking the sea. It is not necessary to pay to see some of them, but if you want to admire the most spectacular view of the island, admission costs only $6 USD. Of course, leave your ribbon with your prayer to the Mayan Isla Mujeres, goddess of fertility, and be ready to have a baby.

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Swim with dolphins

Swimming with dolphins is a very much enjoyable activity in Isla Mujeres. Have a fun day learning with these mammals in Dolphin Discovery.

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Fun Facts

Interesting things you probably didn't know about the island.

It has a famous Shell House

One of the island's most popular attractions is its Instagram-worthy house called “Casa Caracol”, a private home shaped like a giant shell with furniture resembling marine elements. Unfortunately, it’s not open to the public, but you can look as it sits across the ocean.



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Punta Sur is the first spot in Mexico to see the sunrise

As stated on one of the rocks by the entrance, Punta Sur is the extreme southeast of the Mexican Republic. It is also known as el “Acantilado del Amanecer,” which means it receives the first rays of sun in the country each day.

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Playa Norte is considered one of the best beaches in the world

In 2020, Playa Norte took the 17th spot in Tripadvisor's “Top 25 most popular beaches in the world”. In Mexico, it holds the first spot in the country.

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Tikin Xic is the most popular dish on the island

Regarding its gastronomy, there are dishes that are very typical of the region, such as the fish Tikin Xic. The original recipe is attributed to the island, so several restaurants include this dish.

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Isla Mujeres is home to whale sharks

Each summer, whale sharks migrate to the warm waters near Isla Mujeres. During that season, you can book a tour to swim with them in their natural habitat.

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