Picture yourself surrounded by turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and a vibrant local culture – welcome to Isla Mujeres, a slice of paradise nestled just off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. If you’re planning a trip to this idyllic island, you’re in for a treat. But how do you get there? Since it is an island, the primary way to get to Isla Mujeres is by boat. Some people fly by private planes or have private water vessels, but the majority of us visitors (including myself) take the ferry.
This comprehensive guide on how to make your way from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, ensures your journey is as seamless and enjoyable as your destination. Whether you’re taking a day trip or spending a few nights in the Quintana Roo region of Mexico, you’ll be glad you stopped by Isla Mujeres for a visit.
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Where is Isla Mujeres?
Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the destination. Isla Mujeres is a small island located just 8 miles off the coast of Cancun in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking an escape from the bustling mainland.
How to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
One of the best ways to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres is through the ferry service. Ferry rides usually only take around 20 minutes and offer breathtaking views throughout the entire experience. You’ll be able to see some of the best turquoise waters in the Caribbean Ocean which makes for a very enjoyable ride as you make your way to Isla Mujeres. In order to access this convenient mode of transport, you will need to go to one of the designated terminals in Cancun where it will depart and head towards Isla Mujeres.
Skip the Hassle: Book this door-to-door service from Cancun and don’t worry about how to get to Isla Mujeres.
Ferry to Isla Mujeres from Cancun Hotel Zone
If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to get between Cancun and Isla Mujeres, the best option is to take the ferry from one of the three ferry terminals located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. The three terminals are Playa Caracol, Playa Tortuga, and El Embarcadero, all of which provide top-notch service and a secure trip to Isla Mujeres.
The fare for a round-trip ticket is only around 20 USD, making it an affordable option for many travelers. What’s more, these ferries depart every hour from each terminal throughout the day so you can plan your trip at your own convenience. The relaxing boat ride is also part of the adventure as you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery while you’re on board. You can travel with Xcaret ferry or Ultramar.
Travel Tip: If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone of Cancun, take a bus (R1) to the Playa Caracol or Playa Tortuga terminals. If you’re downtown, then call a taxi – it’s much more convenient.
Ferry to Isla Mujeres from Puerto Juarez
The Puerto Juarez ferry terminal provides easy access to the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres. With 3 ferry terminals available, travelers are sure to find a service that suits their needs. The most practical and cost-effective terminal is Ultramar, offering frequent services and tickets starting from as little as 190 MXN one way. What’s more, children up to 1.2 m in height pay only 150 MXN on board, and infants under the age of one can travel free as long as they display a valid boarding pass. Alternatively, for those wishing to take their car with them across the sea, Punta Sam is the only option – however, due to capacity restrictions only the driver may accompany a vehicle on board.
Planning Your Ferry Departure:
Scheduling: Ferries between Cancun and Isla Mujeres typically run from early morning (5:00 am) until evening (9:30 pm), with departures every half hour or so. After 9:30 pm, the ferry runs every hour until 11:30 pm. It’s recommended to check the ferry schedules in advance and consider arriving at the terminal at least 30 minutes before your chosen departure time to ensure you secure your spot.
How to get from Cancun Airport to Isla Mujeres
There are three ways to get from Cancun Airport to Isla Mujeres.
The budget-friendly way is to take the ADO bus from the airport’s bus terminal to the ADO bus terminal in Cancun. From there you can take a shared bus to Puerto Juarez. Another way is to pre-book a shared shuttle direct from the airport to Puerto Juarez.
If you’re traveling with a group, then booking a group transfer is probably more economical.
The more ‘luxurious’ option (and to be honest, the one we did with a group of 5), is to pre-book a private transfer from the airport to Puerto Juarez. I do recommend this if you’re landing late at night.
How to get to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen
The easiest way to get to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen is through Cancun. Take the ADO or shared bus to Cancun and then taxi to the ferry. There is usually taxis lined up at the bus station willing to take you to the ferry.
Travel Tip: Skip the hassle of doing it yourself and take this day trip from Playa del Carmen instead.
How to get to Isla Mujeres from Tulum
If you’re in Tulum, the easiest way to get to Isla Mujeres is by taking a ferry from Cancun.
There are three options for getting from Tulum to Cancun: the ADO bus, a shared bus, or a taxi. The quickest option is to take a taxi, which will take about 90 minutes and will cost around 1400 MXN. Always make sure you negotiate with the taxi driver first before you get in the car.
The ADO bus is more economical but can take 2 hours and 30 minutes – it goes directly to Cancun with no stops in between. Taking a shared bus will also take approximately 2 hours and is usually cheaper than the ADO.
Extend your time on the islands with this 2-for-1 trip to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy
Important Tips for Boat Travel
Consider Sea Conditions: The Caribbean Sea can be calm and tranquil, but it’s essential to keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially if you’re prone to seasickness. If the sea conditions are rough, it might be a good idea to take seasickness precautions or consider rescheduling your trip. Despite popular belief, it’s better to be outside where you can see the horizon to help with sea sickness.
Travel Tip: If you’re coming from the airport straight to the ferry (like us) there is food available at the ferry station. We got a full pizza to eat on the boat, but there was also a deli store there. There is beer, soda, and water for sale on the boat as well.
The Journey Itself:
Once you’re on board the ferry, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coastline and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. Whether you choose to sit inside the air-conditioned cabin or bask in the sun on the outdoor deck, make sure to have your camera ready to capture the beauty of the journey.
Arriving at Isla Mujeres:
As you approach Isla Mujeres, the first thing you’ll notice is the island’s enchanting beauty. Vibrant turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and the charming town center welcome you with open arms.
Getting Around: Isla Mujeres is a small island, and getting around is relatively easy. You can rent a golf cart, scooter, or bicycle to explore the island at your own pace. Alternatively, taxis are readily available if you prefer to let someone else do the driving. We rented a golf cart for our week and it was a great way to get around the island.
Travel Tip: It is not advised to rent a car to take to Isla Mujeres. There is very limited parking and some of the streets near Playa Norte are incredibly packed.
Charter a Private Boat
For those seeking a more personalized experience, private boat charters are available. This option offers flexibility in terms of departure times and routes, and you can tailor the experience to your preferences. While it’s a pricier option, it’s an excellent choice for groups or couples looking for a touch of luxury.
Exploring Isla Mujeres:
Congratulations, you’ve made it to paradise! Isla Mujeres has a plethora of activities to offer, from snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs to exploring the Punta Sur Eco-Park, home to the iconic cliffside sculpture, “La Triguena.” Relax on Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, or immerse yourself in the island’s rich culture by visiting local markets and eateries. Check out my guide to the best things to do in Isla Mujeres.
Returning to Cancun:
When your time in Isla Mujeres comes to an end, it’s time to make your way back to Cancun. The ferry schedule allows for a flexible return, and you can choose a departure time that aligns with your plans. Remember to factor in enough time to return any rented vehicles and arrive at the ferry terminal in advance.
Cherish the Memories:
As you sail back to Cancun, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you’ve gathered on Isla Mujeres. From the journey itself to the exploration of the island’s treasures, this trip is one for the books.
Embarking on a journey from Cancun to Isla Mujeres is a straightforward and rewarding experience. Whether you opt for the convenient ferry or the personalized charm of a private boat, the journey will undoubtedly add to the magic of your visit to this Caribbean gem. So, pack your sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Isla Mujeres. Your paradise awaits!
Read more about Isla Mujeres:
Snorkeling with Whale Sharks in Isla Mujeres
Important Things to Know About Whale Sharks
Best Things to do in Isla Mujeres
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