Mexico was my first international trip without my family and it was a magical trip. I finally got the opportunity to head back and visit the small island of Isla Mujeres. It is located off the coast of Cancun and offers a diverse range of activities despite its small size.
The translation of Isla Mujeres from Spanish is “Island of Women”, which is named after the Mayan Goddess Ixchel, who is associated with fertility and happiness. Isla Mujeres is a jewel nestled in the Caribbean Sea just a short ferry ride away from Cancun. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back island vibe, Isla Mujeres is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable tropical getaway. Whether you’re a beach lover, a water sports enthusiast, or a history buff, this charming island has something to offer every type of traveler.
We’ll explore the best things to do in Isla Mujeres, highlighting the top attractions, activities, and hidden gems that make this island a true paradise. Get ready to bask in the warm sunshine, sink your toes into powdery white sand, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Be sure to pack your reef-safe sunscreen (or even better – a sun guard shirt) to protect yourself from the UV rays!)
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A History of Isla Mujeres
This small island has been cherished for centuries and is highly regarded by both locals and tourists. The Maya people considered it a sacred place and it continues to hold significance today. The island’s history dates back 1500 years when it served as a sanctuary for the Mayan goddess Ixchel, who was associated with the moon, happiness, medicine, and fertility. There was even a temple dedicated to Ixchel, located on the southern tip of the island, which also served as a lighthouse. People would come to worship or collect salt. You can visit this area in Punta Sur. The island remained a sanctuary until it was “discovered” by Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba in 1517.
Nowadays, the island is visited by tourists from around the world. It’s a quieter, more serene island than the party scene of Cancun.
How to get to Isla Mujeres
A 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun will take you to an island with turquoise waters, palm trees, and white sandy beaches.
Isla Mujeres is a suitable destination for a day trip, but it is recommended to stay longer, especially for those who want to avoid the party scene and the multitude of activities in Cancun. It is an ideal location for a tranquil island getaway.
There are multiple transportation options available to travel from the Cancun Airport to Isla Mujeres, including buses, taxis at the airport, or pre-booked private transportation. Check out my full guide to how to get to Isla Mujeres.
Many individuals choose to utilize private transportation to Isla Mujeres arranged through Cancun Airport Transportation. The provided mode of transportation is a van, and the journey is exclusive – if booked, the vehicle is reserved solely for the passenger.
The cost to travel from the Cancun airport to Isla Mujeres is $45 one-way or $75 round trip. For more information, click here.
Best Things to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico
1. Rent a Golf Cart to Explore
Renting a golf cart for the day is recommended to fully enjoy all the activities in Isla Mujeres, as it is a popular and common practice. We named ours Nelly because it was always an interesting experience taking her out (Woah, Nelly). I put this first since it’ll make it easier to get around the island to do the rest of the things on the list!
There are multiple golf cart rental agencies near the ferry port, with an average cost of $65 per day for a 2-seater. This company is just one of the many options, so it’s recommended to compare prices upon arrival. However, if you’re traveling with a group and need a 6-seat golf cart, be sure to book in advance as there are not many on the island.
If you are interested in renting a golf buggy for a week, the cost will be approximately $420. The rate will decrease the longer you rent. It is necessary to have a valid driver’s license to rent a golf cart.
2. Cycle your way around the island
Isla Mujeres is the perfect destination for a cycling trip. Taking part in this guided tour will give you the chance to explore the entire island, from its beautiful sea views to the unique neighborhoods that make this island such an incredible place! You’ll have all the fun of auto-touring with none of the hassles of driving, as you and your guide cycle around this tiny 14-kilometer island. The tour starts from Cancun, so if you are already in or close to the city then it is quite easy to join. However, it’s also possible to meet up with the guide on Isla Mujeres directly – meaning that there’s no need to worry about traveling from one location to another before beginning!
You’ll learn about the island, hidden gems, and tranquil spots (some of which we talk about later in this post). Be sure to bring your camera since you’ll have plenty of stops for breathtaking views. Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine during your lunch break too!
3. Visit Playa Norte
Isla Mujeres’s most famous beach haven is Playa Norte or North Beach. It’s a 10-minute walk from the Ferry Pier. It has been recognized as one of the top beaches in the Caribbean.
The water in this location is calm and shallow, making it suitable for families or for a relaxed day of floating around.
My personal suggestion is to get there EARLY. We got to the beach around 9:00 a.m. for breakfast and were able to rent two chairs and an umbrella for 400 pesos ($24 USD) for the day. By 10:00 a.m. the beach was packed! It stayed that way til about 8:30 p.m. The beach gets crowded so plan accordingly. There are also people who will bring you drinks and food at your beach chairs (don’t forget to tip!) – it was truly a beach lover’s paradise.
The below picture is from the afternoon, after we got back from either scuba diving or whale sharks. So you can see, if you wait to get to the beach, it might be too late to get a good spot!
4. Explore Punta Sur
Punta Sur is situated on the southern tip of Isla Mujeres. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the Pre-Colombian Mayan Ruins of Ixchel or marvel at the breathtaking rocky landscapes. It is a beautiful destination to appreciate the surroundings. There is a nice path to walk around and take pictures. You’ll see Mayan ruins, the famous lighthouse, and statues, all while listening to the waves crashing along the sharp cliffs. Keep an eye out for iguanas basking in the sun.
It’s important to know that there is not much shade here, so be sure to wear sunscreen!
5. Relax on the hidden gem of Garaffon de Castilla beach
If the crowds of Playa Norte are overwhelming, then head south to Garaffon de Castilla. All of the beaches on the island are public beaches, but many are behind hotels or restaurants, so it can feel awkward walking to them. This could be considered one of them haha.
For a fee of 100 pesos ($5), visitors can enjoy access to lounge chairs, showers, change rooms, and snorkel gear. This location provides a pleasant and peaceful atmosphere for afternoon relaxation.
Bonus: There is a hidden gem of a restaurant right across the street – The Joint. It’s a reggae bar with live music on the weekends. We didn’t have enough time to make it there but it came highly recommended.
Do not confuse this with Garrafon Park, which is also situated in this area. I do not recommend the park because they have captive dolphins which you can interact with. This is not an ethical animal encounter so please be a responsible traveler and carefully consider where you choose to spend your tourism funds.
6. Enjoy the Street Art of Isla Mujeres
One of my absolute favorite things to do in Isla Mujeres was to search for street art. There are so many murals – on the street, on buildings, on homes, and even in a cemetery. The colors and details were incredible.
If you want to learn more about the history, then you can take a tour of the Sea Wall Murals of Isla Mujeres. These murals bring awareness to the endangered marine animals around Mexico.
Visitors have the option to take a tour to explore the murals and receive guided explanations from a local tour guide. The tour also includes some sightseeing on the island.
7. Visit an Underwater Museum
A trip to Isla Mujeres isn’t complete without seeing one of the most unique museums in the world – the Museo Subacuatico de Arte (MUSA).
There are two ways to see the over 500 sculptures – Snorkeling or scuba diving. Jason deCaires Taylor created the museum to encourage visitors to visit somewhere other than the reefs along Isla Mujeres.
This sculpture park also helps promote coral growth which helps marine life. Coral is greatly impacted by rising sea temperatures, so the more we can help coral, the better.
We did a snorkel tour to MUSA and Manchones Reef, which are right next to each other. We got to see a sea turtle, barracuda, sting ray, yellow ray, angelfish, zebrafish, and plenty more!
Best tours for visiting MUSA:
Snorkeling tour of MUSA & Manchones
8. Go Deep-Sea Fishing
The turquoise blue waters of Isla Mujeres offer a variety of fishing options, including deep-sea fishing, inshore fishing, and spearfishing. The months from mid-December to July are ideal for sailfish and marlin, while April to August is best for tuna fishing.
There are various charter operators available for different types of fishing preferences, offering options such as charter boats, sport fishing, and private yacht tours.
This operator offers a closer-to-shore experience, suitable for families or those prone to seasickness. The other operator provides a full-day deep-sea fishing trip, ideal for avid anglers seeking to catch a large fish.
While I didn’t have enough time to go deep-sea fishing on this trip, I have done it in other locations. It’s always a great time to be out on the water. Sometimes you can even bring your catch to a restaurant and they’ll cook it for you!
9. Go Snorkeling with Whale Sharks
Swimming with Whale Sharks is a popular water activity in Isla Mujeres, and it was the highlight of our trip. The best time to visit Mexico to see these beautiful creatures is during the summer months of June to September.
Whale sharks can reach a length of 14 meters and have a weight of approximately 15 tonnes, making them gentle giants.
The official regulating bodies have set a limit on tour prices, typically around $145 per person. The tour package includes various amenities such as swimming with whale sharks, meals, drinks, snorkel gear, and an opportunity to explore the reefs.
It is necessary to adhere to the rules and regulations when interacting with sharks. It is important to choose a reputable tour company that follows these regulations. Consider booking a tour with Isla Fun Tours, which has received high ratings, and I can personally recommend them
10. Enjoy a Pint
Mexico is known for its wide variety of lagers, including popular brands like Corona, Dos Equis, and Pacifico. Additionally, the country offers a diverse selection of craft beers that should not be overlooked.
Visiting Isla Brewing Company is a highly recommended activity in Isla Mujeres for beer enthusiasts, particularly during rainy days on the island. Trying locally brewed craft beers is a great experience.
The address for Isla Brewing Company is Jesús Martínez Ross 62, Meteorológico, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico. To locate it on the map, click here.
11. Indulge in the Food
Isla Mujeres, Mexico, offers a delightful culinary experience that’s sure to captivate the taste buds of any traveler. Known for its fresh seafood, the island boasts a wide array of delectable dishes, from ceviche made with locally caught fish to succulent grilled lobster. I even got to have lobster eggs-benedict for breakfast!
One must-try specialty is the “pescado a la tikinxic,” a flavorful fish dish marinated with achiote and grilled to perfection. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on traditional Mexican desserts like churros or the refreshing paletas (popsicles) in exotic fruit flavors.
The island’s charming beachfront restaurants and food stalls provide not only mouthwatering dishes but also an authentic dining experience with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Isla Mujeres’ culinary scene is a true reflection of Mexico’s rich gastronomic heritage, making it a paradise for food-loving travelers.
12. Take a Yoga Class on the Beach
If you are interested in incorporating exercise into your trip, practicing yoga is recommended as one of the top activities to do in Isla Mujeres. Prices for 90-minute classes start at $20, and they offer classes suitable for all levels. To stay updated on the latest timings and classes, please visit their Facebook page. In full honesty, I had every intention of waking up for it, but it just wasn’t in the cards for me. More power to you if you can get to this – the beach would be a beautiful place to start the day.
13. Go Scuba Diving
Isla Mujeres is known for its excellent scuba diving. Visitors can explore beautiful caves and encounter a wide variety of marine life, including eels, groupers, snappers, turtles, parrotfish, and various types of corals.
For those who are new to scuba diving and have no previous experience, Isla Mujeres is an ideal location. This tour provides the opportunity to explore shallow waters under the guidance of a certified diving instructor, allowing you to appreciate the stunning coral reefs in the area.
We dove with Squalo Adventures and they were awesome! The dive shop has a high rating and offers online booking for dives, making it a good choice for experienced divers.
Diving at the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks offers a one-of-a-kind experience where divers can observe a large group of reef, bull, and nurse sharks sleeping on the ocean floor. This dive site, located at a depth of 20-30 meters, is recommended for advanced divers. This is the one that we did and it was so cool to see a 6-foot nurse shark sleeping in the cave!
Some other notable sites include the Machones Reef, Tavos Reef, Media Luna, Punta Sur, and the Navy Boat Shipwreck site.
We had a positive experience scuba diving with Squalo Adventures on Isla Mujeres, as their safety protocols, service, and boats were satisfactory. To book a two-tank dive with our favorite dive shop on Isla Mujeres, click here.
Travel Tip: If you’re short on time, you can dive at the Underwater Museum and Reef!
14. Relax at a Beach Club
There are several beach clubs on the island, and each one is a great way to relax! These beach clubs, scattered along the island’s stunning coastline, are a testament to Isla Mujeres’ reputation as a haven for beach enthusiasts and vacation seekers.
Each beach club on Isla Mujeres presents a unique ambiance and range of amenities. Visitors can revel in soft white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters while lounging on comfortable beach beds or hammocks. The clubs offer an array of water-based activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, allowing guests to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Caribbean Sea.
One of the standout features of Isla Mujeres’ beach clubs is their commitment to providing a complete experience. Many clubs offer beachfront restaurants and bars, serving up delectable local cuisine and refreshing tropical beverages. Enjoying a meal or cocktail with your toes in the sand while gazing at the horizon is a quintessential Isla Mujeres experience. We enjoyed an incredible sunset meal at Mayan Beach Club at the North end of the island. It was set away in its own little oasis!
15. Go Snorkeling
For beginners who haven’t had much snorkeling experience, El Farito is recommended as the best place to snorkel. Located to the north of the island, El Farito offers shallow depths and is ideal for observing schools of colorful fish.
Alternatively, you may want to consider joining a snorkeling tour that includes a boat ride to the best spots and a knowledgeable local guide to showcase the remarkable sea life around Mujeres.
Los Machones is recommended for advanced snorkelers as it has a depth of 35 – 40 feet. Other notable snorkel sites include MUSA, Garrafon Natural Reef Park, and Isla Contoy.
16. Try to Spot Nesting Sea Turtles
The island’s beaches play host to several species of sea turtles, including loggerheads, hawksbills, and green turtles, as they return to their birthplace to continue the cycle of life.
During the nesting season, typically from May to September, Isla Mujeres becomes a vital sanctuary for these graceful creatures. Female sea turtles emerge from the ocean at night, guided by the moonlight, to lay their eggs in the soft sands. Witnessing this ancient ritual is a rare and moving experience that underscores the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems.
We saw numerous signs along the road informing people that those beaches often have sea turtles
17. Eat all you can at Mercado Municipal
A visit to Mercado Municipal in Centro is a must for anyone visiting Isla Mujeres. This lively local market offers visitors a glimpse into life on the island with an authentic meal at unbeatable prices. Mercado Municipal is definitely worth a visit, especially around lunchtime when it’s at its busiest. I always love the craziness of a food market. Here, you can try some of the most delicious, freshly prepared food the island has to offer, like scrumptious fish tacos and empanadas costing just a few dollars.
The atmosphere inside is always bustling and vibrant with locals gathering together to check out the latest products, haggle over prices, and enjoy their lunchtime snacks. To make sure you don’t miss out on this amazing experience, be sure to arrive around lunchtime before it closes early afternoon! The address for Mercado Municipal is Supmza. 001, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo in Mexico and you can find directions here online if needed. So make sure you add this fantastic attraction to your list of things to do in Isla Mujeres – you won’t regret it!
18. Discover Reclaimed Art
We stumbled upon reclaimed art when we were trying to find the Rainbow Stairs (which were lackluster to say the least), but the reclaimed art was cool. There was a lot of it right in the median of the road! Everything from tires to wood in various forms and shapes.
19. Go Shopping
For those looking for true Mexican souvenirs and apparel, Isla Mujeres is a great place to go shopping. The colorful stalls and shops along Avenida Rueda Medina offer everything from traditional folk art to modern silver jewelry. Whether you’re searching for a bottle of Tequila or Mezcal, an authentic handmade hammock or some Mexican ceramics, shopping in Isla Mujeres can be both fun and rewarding.
Within the maze of streets that make up the town are several fantastic stores well worth seeking out. Galeria de Arte Mexicano is an excellent choice when it comes to silver jewelry – their items bring together classic designs with modern pieces, all crafted by local artisans. Another great shop to visit is Women’s Beading Cooperative located at Av Guerrero 3 – here you’ll find unique pieces created by female artisans who benefit directly from your purchases. A trip around the stores of Isla Mujeres will set your wardrobe up with some cool Mexican apparel and provide you with memories that’ll last a lifetime!
20. Enjoy Luxury by Renting a Yacht
If you are looking for a luxurious way to explore Isla Mujeres, then look no further than renting a private yacht. While there were only 5 of us on this trip, we didn’t rent our own, but we had a lot of fun admiring the yachts on the water.
This 46-foot beauty can fit up to 15 guests and takes you wherever you want to go—whether you need an easy pick-up from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, or want to enjoy the sunlit coves of Isla Mujeres. The cost of the rental is quite affordable for larger groups too, as the entire day will only cost less than $40 per person.
On board, there’s plenty of room and seating for everyone including plenty of space to spare for those wanting some alone time while lounging or even basking in some sunshine on the spacious top deck. Guests can also request services such as food or drinks packages from the captains, if they choose, making it easy to enjoy a complete luxury experience during their day out at sea. Click here for more information and bookings if you’re interested in enjoying all that Isla Mujeres has to offer without having to leave your boat!
21. Enjoy Sunset on the Water on a Catamaran
A Sunset Catamaran Cruise on Isla Mujeres is the perfect way to end a day in Mexico. Start off by hopping on the 4-hour boat trip, cozying up with your friends and a drink, and enjoy swimming, snacking on food, and of course, being treated to a stunning sunset! With rooms for 10 people (plus the captain), this private experience guarantees each guest an enjoyable time. The tour departs from Cancun so be sure to call ahead if you’d like them to pick you up in Isla Mujeres.
Take the night off relax out on a glimmering sea and witness one of Mother Nature’s grandest spectacles as you cruise around the picturesque island of Isla Mujeres. Make sure to have your camera ready; you’ll want to capture this moment forever so you can easily share it with family and friends back home!
22. Take a Day Trip off the Island
Yes, I know this isn’t technically a ‘thing to do in Isla Mujeres’ but since you’re already there, you might as well enjoy the area around it.
Cancun
The short ferry ride from Isla Mujeres to Cancun whisks you away to a world of vibrant contrasts. In Cancun, you can immerse yourself in the bustling Hotel Zone, with its high-end resorts, lively nightlife, and superb shopping. Alternatively, you can explore the rich cultural heritage of downtown Cancun, where you’ll find local markets, authentic Mexican cuisine, and historic sites like El Rey Ruins. Whether you’re looking for relaxation on Cancun’s pristine beaches or an adventure in the nearby jungles, a day trip offers a taste of the diverse experiences the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer, all just a stone’s throw away from Isla Mujeres.
Isla Contoy
A breathtaking natural reserve is a quick day trip. Isla Contoy is situated 30 km north of Isla Mujeres. This natural wildlife reserve and bird sanctuary measures 9 km in length and 20 meters in width and was officially designated as a National Park in 1998. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast Isla Contoy is home to hundreds of sea birds and sea turtles. Keep your camera ready!
This tour is a great option. It leaves from Cancun, but usually, you can just hop on when the boat comes into Isla Mujeres. Just let them know to expect you.
In order to protect The daily visitor limit is 200, and a day tour can be booked starting at $75 per person. For more information, click here.
The address for Isla Contoy is Ed. Capitanía Regional de Puerto Juárez, Región 86, Manzana 2, 77520 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico. Click here for directions.
Final Thoughts
Isla Mujeres is a tropical paradise that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on its stunning beaches, exploring the vibrant marine life through snorkeling or diving, immersing yourself in the local culture and cuisine, or embarking on exciting adventures like a cycle tour or exploring underwater museums, this charming island has it all. Isla Mujeres has a unique charm that captivates visitors, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.
Read More About Mexico
Snorkeling with Whale Sharks in Isla Mujeres
Important Things to Know about Whale Sharks (before you snorkel with them)
How to get to Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Yucatan Peninsula Travel Guide
Save “Things to do in Isla Mujeres” for Later
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