Explore Isla Mujeres: A Hidden Gem Near Cancun

Less than 10 miles off the coast of Cancún, Mexico, Isla Mujeres beckons travelers with its island charm. This tiny island enchants visitors with wild cliff sides, endless stretches of palm trees, a vibrantly colored town, and one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Once sacred to the Maya goddess of childbirth and medicine, Ixchel, Isla Mujeres, or Women Island, was named by 16th-century Spanish conquistadors for the abundance of goddess statues found there. Today, locals refer to it simply as “Isla.”

Getting There

Frequent ferries make travel from Cancún to Isla Mujeres easy and quick. If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, you can leave from Playa Tortugas, El Embarcadero, or Playa Caracol. Alternatively, those staying downtown should head to Puerto Juarez. The pleasant 20-minute trip is enhanced by the breathtaking views from the ferry’s upper deck.

Starting Your Day

Upon arrival, head to Avenida Hidalgo for your first meal. This pedestrian street is famous for its four-block stretch of restaurants and shops. Here, you will find brightly-painted stores selling colorful souvenirs, including embroidered Maya blouses, Mexican skull decorations, whimsical animal figurines, and the island’s renowned seashells. Vendors often call out promises of special prices.

Avenida Hidalgo also boasts several eateries offering breakfast and brunch options, such as the open-air venue, Lola Valentina. Enjoy delicious cheese-filled French toast or an extensive range of vegan options, paired with refreshing hibiscus water or a unique watermelon-jalapeño margarita.

After breakfast, experience the most iconic activity in Isla Mujeres: a golf cart ride around the island. Numerous golf cart rental shops are conveniently located across the street from the ferry terminal. Most places charge between $600-$700 Mexican pesos for the entire day, although some offer hourly rentals. Just remember to bring a valid driver’s license from your home country.

DIY Golf Cart Tours of the Island

Isla Mujeres is just five miles long, making it easy to navigate by golf cart for a DIY tour. Drive south out of town and keep exploring. Along the way, you will find attractive outdoor spots for lunch or drinks. Be sure to stop at the tree-shaded deck at Barlito or Oscar’s, which serves fantastic pizzas in the afternoon.

At the southern end of the island, visit the stunning Garrafon Park lookout point for breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Treat yourself to ice cream if a vendor is present. For those seeking adventure, the park offers a zipline experience; tickets are available at the park entrance.

Continuing along the road leads you to the entrance of Punta Sur, the southern tip of Isla Mujeres and the easternmost point in Mexico. A $30 peso entrance fee grants access to Punta Sur park, where you can explore stunning cliffs, admire the brilliant blue ocean, and wander through the sculpture park, which includes a Maya temple dedicated to Ixchel.

Once you’ve captured your most Instagram-worthy moments, return to town via the rocky east coast road lined with cliffs, crashing waves, and the occasional seashell stand.

An Afternoon at North Beach

Upon returning to town, return your golf cart and stroll to the beach at the northern end, known as Playa Norte (North Beach). This stretch of white sand is often ranked among the best beaches in the world due to its palm trees and calm, clear waters, perfect for ocean lounging or wading. For those on a budget, simply lay a blanket in the shade of a palm tree.

If you’re craving cocktails and amenities, several beach clubs offer rental loungers. Green Demon hosts live reggae parties on the beach starting at sunset, making it a vibrant spot to experience.

Yachts converge off the coast in the late afternoon, with groups gathering on the sand in anticipation of Isla Mujeres’ breathtaking sunsets. Notably, the island is one of the few places on Mexico’s eastern coast where the sunset can be viewed over the ocean.

After Dark on Isla Mujeres

As night falls and stars emerge, return to Avenida Hidalgo, where travelers unite for an evening filled with dining and drinks. This lively street transforms into the heart of island nightlife, with options ranging from pasta at Rolandi’s to live music at El Patio. For budget-friendly options, venture south to discover street vendors selling tacos and other local favorites near the city hall square.

When satisfied with your evening filled with ocean breezes and the peaceful sounds of swaying palm trees, it’s time to catch the ferry for a starlit journey back to the vibrant lights of Cancún.

This guide was first published Feb 20, 2018, and updated Oct 21, 2021.