There’s something special about Isla Holbox, Mexico – a tiny slice of paradise where the pace slows down, the colors are more vibrant, and every corner feels like an adventure waiting to happen. Tucked away off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, this little island is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy streets, and a laid-back vibe that pulls you in the moment you arrive.
Having been to Mexico several times I wanted to explore a little off the normal path on my latest trip. I happily stumbled across Isla Holbox, pronounced Hol-Bosh, and spent 6 days on the island having an amazing time. There are plenty of things to see and do, both day and night, really something for everyone, I will give you the rundown on the best things to do in Isla Holbox, Mexico – so you can pick what appeals to you most!
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How to get to Holbox?
Fly to Cancun
The closest major airport to Holbox is Cancun International Airport (CUN), with numerous international and domestic flights daily. From Cancun, you’ll make your way to Chiquila, where ferries depart for Holbox. Pairing a trip to Cancun with some time in Holbox is very easy, this is exactly what I did.
Travel from Cancun to Chiquila
By Bus: ADO and other local bus companies operate services from Cancun to Chiquila, typically taking around 2-3 hours. Buses are affordable and run several times a day.
By Car: You can rent a car at the airport or in Cancun. The drive to Chiquila takes about 2 hours, with secure parking available near the ferry terminal.
Private Shuttle: Some companies offer private shuttle services directly from Cancun to Chiquila. This option is more expensive but convenient, especially for larger groups.
Take the Ferry from Chiquila to Holbox
Ferries depart every 30 minutes between 6:00 a.m. and 9:30 p.m., with the journey taking about 20-30 minutes.
Two main ferry companies, Holbox Express and 9 Hermanos, operate this route. Tickets can be purchased on-site – be aware it was cash only when we were there as their card machine “was not working” so have cash just in case.
Best Things to Do in Isla Holbox
Bioluminescent Plankton
One of the highlights of our trip and a real bucket list experience, Holbox is renowned for its bioluminescent beaches providing a unique experience after dark. The phenomenon occurs when bioluminescent plankton in the water emits a soft blue glow when disturbed. This effect is best seen on moonless nights, particularly around Punta Cocos Beach, where the conditions are ideal.
We were there during a full moon, which meant having to wait until moonset, something I hadn’t contemplated before. Our 3 am wake-up was well worth it for what we got to see. As you wade into the shallow water or simply move along the shore, tiny organisms light up, adding an almost otherworldly feel. We decided to swim in the water and it really was incredibly special seeing you and your friends outlined in blue shimmer.
Guided kayak tours are also available for those wanting a slightly different experience. To help protect this delicate ecosystem, it’s recommended to avoid using insect repellent before entering the water.
Punta Mosquito
Punta Mosquito is a secluded stretch of beach that feels worlds away from the rest of Holbox. Known for its crystal-clear, shallow waters, it’s a peaceful area, with a lot of wildlife, that you can wade out to on a shallow sand bar. How shallow depends on your timing of the tide!
Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy the area, as flamingos, pelicans, and other shorebirds frequently visit, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and those looking to practice their photography skills.
There are limited facilities at Punta Mosquito, so bring a small bag and come prepared with water, snacks, and sun protection. Punta Mosquito feels like a hidden piece of the island, perfect for those wanting to connect with nature away from the more active beach areas.
Three Islands Tour
The Three Islands Tour is a popular way to explore some of the natural highlights surrounding Holbox. You will find many tour providers to choose from on the island, we chose to book through Get Your Guide. This half-day excursion typically includes stops at Bird Island, Passion Island, and Yalahau Cenote, each offering its own unique attractions. Bird Island, true to its name, is a haven for birdwatchers, where species like flamingos, herons, and pelicans can be seen. Passion Island is known for its beautiful views and shallow, clear waters that invite swimming and snorkelling.
Yalahau Cenote, the final stop, is a freshwater spring that’s ideal for cooling off. Believed by locals to have rejuvenating properties, the cenote’s cool, clear waters are refreshing, especially after time in the sun. We particularly appreciated a break from the saltwater for the swim! This tour is a great option for those looking to explore beyond the main island, experiencing a lot of what Holbox has to offer in one trip.
Swim with Whale Sharks
Another bucket list item for me, from June to September, Holbox offers visitors the rare chance to swim alongside whale sharks. These gentle giants are the largest fish species in the world, and Holbox is one of the few places where visitors can observe them up close. Guided tours take small groups out to where the whale sharks feed, allowing swimmers to enter the water and witness these animals in their natural habitat. Despite their size, whale sharks are known for their calm nature, making this a safe experience for swimmers.
Tour operators on the island follow strict guidelines to ensure minimal disturbance to the whale sharks, maintaining a respectful distance. Seeing these beauties in the wild is an option in a few spots across the world, but you need to be careful that it is done properly, many places feed the whale sharks, something that has been proven to interrupt their migration. Holbox is not one of those, so you can enjoy knowing this is a truly wild encounter.
Street Art
Holbox’s street art adds a lively element to its sandy streets and relaxed atmosphere. The island’s walls feature colourful murals, many of which reflect its natural surroundings, local culture, and marine life. Created by both local and visiting artists, these artworks add to the unique character of Holbox. We enjoyed spotting as many as we could, have your camera at the ready!
The street art is scattered throughout town, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike. Each piece tells its own story, with themes ranging from environmental conservation to depictions of island wildlife.
Kayaking in Mangroves
Holbox’s mangroves are perfect to explore by kayak. Paddling through these waterways allows you to encounter a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, herons, and, occasionally, crocodiles, yes crocodiles are native to Holbox! The dense mangrove forest is rich in biodiversity, making it an excellent option for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Guided tours provide insight into the mangrove ecosystem, highlighting its role in supporting marine life and protecting the coastline. The slow pace of kayaking makes it an accessible activity for all ages, allowing participants to take in the surroundings without disturbing the local wildlife.
Do your own food tour and sample the local cuisine
For me, especially when travelling, food is a big part of the exploration and enjoyment! Holbox did not let me down. It is known for its laid-back dining scene, featuring a mix of fresh seafood and local specialties. Lobster pizza is a local favourite, often recommended by locals as a must-try dish unique to the island, we tried this at Roots and enjoyed the pizza as much as the live band. Ceviche, made with fresh catch from the surrounding waters, is also popular across many restaurants.
Beyond seafood, Holbox has small eateries serving regional tacos, Mexican snacks, and international flavours. The tacos Al Pastor at Taco Queto were absolutely stunning and a highlight of our self-guided taco food crawl!
Beach Clubs
Holbox has a variety of beach clubs for those looking to relax in style, with comfortable seating, drinks, and access to the sea. These spots provide loungers, umbrellas, and hammocks, creating an ideal setting for sunbathing or reading with the sound of the waves in the background.
Many beach clubs serve cocktails and light bites, allowing visitors to spend an entire day soaking up the sun with minimal interruptions, perfect if you need a break from adventuring.
Kitesurfing and Paddleboarding
Holbox’s calm, shallow waters make it an ideal location for kitesurfing and paddleboarding, especially for beginners. Local shops offer rentals and lessons, making it easy for visitors to get started. Kitesurfing is particularly popular here, thanks to consistent winds. Paddleboarding, on the other hand, provides a slower pace and is suitable for those looking to enjoy the view while getting a gentle workout.
Both sports offer a chance to experience Holbox’s waters from a different perspective and offer a more thrilling alternative to the islands nature.
Rent a Bike or Golf Cart
Famous for only having sand roads, exploring Holbox by bike or golf cart is very easy. The sandy streets and limited vehicle traffic, bikes and golf carts are popular, eco-friendly options for getting around. Renting a bike or cart allows visitors to freely explore, from the lively town centre to quieter beaches and local landmarks.
The island’s compact size means most locations are easily accessible, and renting for the day gives plenty of time to see Holbox’s sights at your own pace. One thing I would consider is the weather though, the quaint sandy roads become very waterlogged after heavy rain, meaning cycling around becomes significantly harder!
Yoga on the Island
There is a big yoga scene on Holbox, for everyone from seasons yogis to total beginners. Many hotels and local studios offer morning sessions, often held outdoors with views of the sea.
Yoga classes on the island are usually open to all levels, with experienced instructors guiding participants through each session.
Final thoughts on Isla Holbox
Hopefully, I’ve now given you a great feel for the island and you know exactly what there is to do. I cannot recommend a visit here highly enough, considering how close it is to travel hotspot Cancun, many more people should come and visit.
Holbox is up there as one of my favourite spots in Mexico, a tiny island, with very few cars, that gives you the opportunity to tick off some genuine bucket list items.
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