Isla Mujeres Travel Guide: How to Get There, What to Do & Where to Stay

Isla Mujeres is a narrow Caribbean island just 13 km northeast of Cancún, Quintana Roo. At only 7 km long and 650 metres wide, it is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Caribbean — and one of the easiest to explore in a single day or a relaxed long weekend. The island sits where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea: the east coast faces open Caribbean surf, while the west side looks back toward the Cancún skyline across calm, turquoise water.

Despite its size, Isla Mujeres packs in white-sand beaches, snorkeling sites, a world-class underwater museum, a national reef park, and a growing food scene. It is also one of the most affordable island experiences in Quintana Roo, with ferry tickets under $15 USD one way and plenty of budget-friendly accommodation.

Getting to Isla Mujeres

The island is reached by ferry from Cancún. There is no airport on Isla Mujeres — Cancún International Airport (CUN) is the gateway, and the ferry terminal is about 20–30 minutes by taxi or shuttle from the airport.

Three ferry companies operate from the Puerto Juárez and Gran Puerto terminals in Cancún:

• Ultramar — the most popular option. Modern, air-conditioned boats with frequent departures (roughly every 30 minutes from early morning to late night). The crossing takes about 15–20 minutes. Round-trip tickets cost approximately 580 MXN ($30–35 USD).
• Jetway — a budget-friendly waterjet service popular with locals and island workers. Slightly smaller boats, shorter operating hours (roughly 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM), and lower prices.
• Xcaret Xailing — departs from El Embarcadero at Km 4.5 of the Cancún Hotel Zone. A longer ride (about 25 minutes) but convenient if you are staying in the Hotel Zone.

All ferries arrive at the terminal on the north side of the island, a short walk from Playa Norte and the main town area. No car ferry runs on a regular public schedule — the vehicle ferry from Punta Sam operates only occasionally, and most visitors do not bring a car.

Tip: Buy round-trip tickets online in advance during peak season (December–April) to avoid long queues at the terminal.

Playa Norte beach on Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo

Playa Norte

Playa Norte is the island's signature beach — a long stretch of white sand on the northern tip with calm, shallow water that stays knee-deep well offshore. It has earned Blue Flag certification and regularly appears on lists of the best beaches in Mexico.

The beach is lined with casual beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Most charge a minimum spend (typically 300–500 MXN) for a lounge chair and umbrella, which includes food and drinks. Budget-conscious visitors can simply walk further from the main cluster of clubs to find free stretches of sand.

Playa Norte is ideal for families with young children because the water is calm and clear, with almost no waves. Snorkeling from the beach is possible but limited — for better marine life, head to the island's reef sites or book a boat tour.

Snorkeling and Diving

Isla Mujeres sits on the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Several snorkeling sites are within easy reach:

• MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte) — the island's most famous attraction. This underwater museum features more than 500 life-size sculptures submerged at depths of 4–10 metres. Snorkelers can explore the Punta Nizuc gallery (4 m deep), while certified divers can visit the Manchones gallery (8–10 m). The sculptures double as artificial reefs, and coral growth is visible on many pieces. Tours from Isla Mujeres cost around 55–75 USD per person for a snorkeling trip.
• Manchones Reef — a natural coral reef southwest of the island with depths up to 12 metres. Large coral formations, sea fans, and abundant fish make this a popular stop on snorkeling tours.
• El Farito — a small reef near the northern tip, good for a quick snorkel from a boat. Bright corals and colorful fish in shallow water.
• Garrafón Natural Reef Park — at the southern tip of the island (Punta Sur), this park offers snorkeling along a natural reef, plus kayaking, zip-lining, and an infinity pool. Admission runs about 71–112 USD depending on the package.

Whale shark season runs from late May to early September. Hundreds of whale sharks gather about 20 km north of the island to feed on bonito tuna eggs. Tours depart early in the morning and cost approximately 150–200 USD per person. This is a bucket-list experience and one of the few places in the world where you can reliably swim alongside whale sharks.

Coast of Punta Sur, southern Isla Mujeres

Punta Sur and Garrafón Park

Punta Sur is the highest point on the island at just 20 metres above sea level, but the views are dramatic — cliffs on the Caribbean side, the Cancún skyline to the west, and the reef line below. The area includes:

• Temple of Ixchel ruins — small archaeological remains of a Maya shrine to the goddess of fertility and medicine.
• Sculpture Garden — a contemporary art installation along the cliff walk.
• Garrafón Natural Reef Park — a full-day adventure park with snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining, a Temazcal ceremony, buffet lunch, and an infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean. It is family-friendly but can feel busy during peak hours. Arriving early (the park opens at 10 AM) helps avoid the worst crowds.

Getting Around the Island

Isla Mujeres is small enough to explore in a few hours, but large enough that walking the full length gets hot in the midday sun. Your main options:

• Golf cart — the most popular way to get around. Rental shops cluster near the ferry terminal. Expect to pay 60–100 USD per day for a 4-person cart, or 25–45 USD for a few hours. You will need to leave a valid driver's licence as a deposit. Walk a block or two away from the terminal for better rates.
• Scooter/moped — cheaper than a golf cart (around 30–50 USD per day) and nimble in traffic. Best for solo travelers or couples.
• Taxi — readily available. Short trips within town cost about 50–100 MXN. A taxi to Punta Sur from the ferry terminal runs about 150–200 MXN.
• Isleños Bus — a local bus service that runs the length of the island for about 10 MXN per ride, or roughly 90 MXN for a day pass. The cheapest option, but less frequent.

If you are staying near Playa Norte and only visiting the north end, you may not need any vehicle at all — most restaurants, shops, and beaches are within walking distance.

Where to Stay

Isla Mujeres has accommodation for every budget, from backpacker hostels to all-inclusive luxury resorts.

Budget (under $80 USD/night):

• Selina Poc Na — a well-known hostel near the ferry terminal with dorm beds, private rooms, a pool, and a social atmosphere.
• Casa del Jaguar Beach Hotel — a boutique beachfront property on Playa Norte with excellent reviews and mid-range pricing.
• Airbnb rentals — plentiful on the island, especially in the Centro and Sac Bajo areas. Private rooms from $30–50 USD.

Mid-range ($80–200 USD/night):

• Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres — perched on cliffs with ocean views and a more affordable price point than the luxury resorts.
• Hotel Belo Isla Mujeres — a boutique all-inclusive with a pool and modern design.
• Villas San Miguel — convenient downtown location near the grocery store, restaurants, and ferry terminal.

Luxury ($200+ USD/night):

• Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets — adults-only all-inclusive on the southern end of the island with rooftop pools and elevated dining.
• Esplendor by Wyndham Isla Mujeres — boutique all-inclusive with infinity pools and ocean views.

Where to stay on the island:

• Playa Norte — best for first-time visitors. Close to restaurants, nightlife, and the ferry terminal.
• Centro (downtown) — best for budget travelers. Walkable to everything, including the Mercado Municipal.
• Sac Bajo — quieter, with private villas and sunset views. Good for couples.
• Punta Sur — the most peaceful area, with luxury homes and dramatic ocean views.

Where to Eat

The island's food scene ranges from $50 MXN market meals to $500 MXN fine dining. A few standouts:

• Mercado Municipal — the central market on Avenida Guerrero. Open from early morning to mid-afternoon, it is the best place for an authentic, no-frills meal. Look for the open-air stalls outside serving chilaquiles, salbutes, panuchos, and fresh juices. Budget about 50–100 MXN per person.
• Lola Valentina — on Avenida Hidalgo, popular for brunch with coconut french toast, breakfast cocktails, and vegetarian options. Meals around 150–300 MXN.
• Café Mogagua — an all-day café with solid breakfasts, enchiladas, pancakes, and good coffee. A reliable choice any time of day.
• Samura — Japanese-Caribbean fusion with excellent sushi and tuna dishes. One of the island's top-rated restaurants.
• Limon — Mexican seafood with pasta, carpaccio, and coconut shrimp. Well-regarded and moderately priced.

Practical note: Many restaurants on the island accept cash only, or have unreliable card machines. Bring pesos. There are ATMs in town, but they occasionally run out of cash during peak season.

Isla Contoy

A half-day trip worth considering. Isla Contoy is a protected natural reserve about 30 minutes by boat north of Isla Mujeres. It is a sanctuary for seabirds (frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants) and marine life. Visitor numbers are limited, so book in advance. Tours typically include snorkeling, a guided walk, and lunch. Expect to pay around 80–120 USD per person.

Practical Information

• Best time to visit: November to April for dry weather and calm seas. May to September is whale shark season but also hotter with more rain. October and November see fewer crowds but occasional storms.
• Currency: Mexican peso (MXN). USD is widely accepted at tourist businesses, but you will get better value paying in pesos.
• Language: Spanish is the local language. English is spoken at most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.
• Safety: Isla Mujeres has a strong reputation for safety. Violent crime is rare. The main risks are sunburn, dehydration, and occasional sargassum on the east-facing beaches.
• Sargassum: The Caribbean (east) side of the island can see sargassum seaweed, especially from May to August. Playa Norte on the west side is generally less affected.
• Cash: Bring pesos. Many smaller restaurants and shops are cash-only.
• Getting from Cancún Airport: Pre-book a shuttle to Puerto Juárez ferry terminal (about $15–25 USD one way). Taxis from the airport cost roughly $30–40 USD.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Morning ferry from Cancún. Drop bags at your hotel. Spend the afternoon at Playa Norte — swim, eat lunch at a beach club, and watch the sunset. Dinner at a restaurant on Avenida Hidalgo.

Day 2: Morning snorkeling tour to MUSA and Manchones Reef (book the day before). Afternoon golf cart rental — drive to Punta Sur, visit the Garrafón Park or simply walk the cliff path. Evening at the Mercado Municipal for an affordable dinner.

Day 3 (optional): Whale shark tour (in season) or Isla Contoy day trip. Afternoon ferry back to Cancún.

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