Great Beach Escapes: High-Energy to Low-Key
Mexico’s islands have a wealth of charms to offer, ranging from the languid to the outdoorsy. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an up-close wildlife experience, or a fun tequila-fueled weekend, Mexico has an island for you. Here are our five favorite islands, from Baja to the Caribbean.
Marietas Islands, Jalisco
Location: Marietas Islands, Mexico
Where They Are: In Banderas Bay, near Puerto Vallarta
Why They’re Great: This fetching volcanic archipelago is a protected marine park and an important bird sanctuary. Home to over ninety species of birds – including the blue-footed booby, the white-capped marine swallow, and the pájaro bobo café (a type of penguin) – Las Marietas is a nature lover’s dream. The islands also offer superb diving and snorkeling. Furthermore, the Marietas Islands are known for the spectacular “hidden beach” in a secluded cove, often featured on social media.
When to Go: November to March, with the added benefit of catching the migration of humpback whales, which leave their Alaskan feeding grounds to breed in these waters.
Getting There: Take a day trip to the islands with a reputable tour company like Vallarta Adventures.
Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo
Location: Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Where it is: North of Cancun
Why It’s Great: This under-the-radar, chilled-out island is a world away from the high-rise scene of Cancun, which is precisely its appeal. Sandy streets, beaches lined with open-air bars and restaurants, and unpretentious hotels contribute to its blissful atmosphere. The biggest draw is the whale sharks – the world’s largest fish – which flock to the plankton-rich waters. Numerous local outfitters, like Willy’s Tours, offer day trips to swim with these gentle creatures.
When to Go: May to September, during the whale shark season.
Getting There: Two buses leave Cancun daily for Chiquila, a tiny fishing village that serves as a departure point for ferries to Holbox.
Espiritu Santo, Baja California
Location: Isla Espiritu Santo, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Where It Is: In Southern Baja, near the town of La Paz
Why It’s Great: This idyllic, uninhabited UNESCO-listed nature reserve features sheer red cliffs, windswept desert sand dunes, and turquoise inlets. You can swim with manta rays, whale sharks, and sea lions in the warm waters, or hike in the desert and capture stunning photographs of the gorgeous scenery.
When to Go: July to September is the optimal time for seeing manta rays, sharks, and whale sharks. Consider staying with Baja Camp, a unique luxury camping experience that is the only accommodation on the island.
Getting There: The island is about two hours by boat from La Paz.
Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo
Location: Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico
Where it is: Separated from Cancun by Mujeres Bay, Isla Mujeres is located about seven miles from the coast.
Why It’s Great: Crushed coral beaches, tranquil shallow waters, and exceptional diving and snorkeling make this five-mile-long island a popular vacation destination for couples and young groups. A visit to the Isla Mujeres Turtle Farm, a turtle sanctuary, offers insights into the plight of these beautiful creatures and the admirable preservation efforts being undertaken to protect them.
When to Go: The weather is ideal from November to March.
Getting There: Buses depart Cancun regularly for Punta Sam and Puerto Juarez, the two ferry departure points to Isla Mujeres.
Isla Cozumel, Quintana Roo
Location: Around 45 miles south of Cancun in the Caribbean Sea
Why It’s Great: A magnet for divers since Jacques Cousteau discovered its fantastic reefs in the 1960s, Cozumel has become a huge tourist draw due to its natural charms – deep-water reefs and bird-watching opportunities – and its shopping venues. Mexico’s largest island, Cozumel offers ample space for bargain hunters and dive aficionados alike.
When to Go: The festive Carnival in February is exciting, but the winter months – roughly November to March – provide ideal conditions.
Getting There: Passenger ferries run regularly from Playa del Carmen, and an airport serves international destinations, including the USA and Europe.
