What to do in Isla Mujeres: Top Attractions & Activities
Isla Mujeres is an iconic destination in the Mexican Caribbean nestled about 20 minutes away from Cancun.
While you explore the dazzling natural beauty of Isla Mujeres you fill delight with stunning views of the Caribbean, framed by calmed beaches up on the northern side of the island. Down to the south, Isla Mujeres opens its way showcasing stunning cliffs.
The charm of Isla Mujeres can be admired throughout the majesty of its turquoise waters and beaches, and also through the wide array of cultural attractions and water activities.
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About Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a tiny island located about 15 kilometers (9 mi) from Cancun and it has an approximate wide area of 8 kilometers (5 mi), sightseeing and taking a tour around the island is always a good idea.
It is also known that the island has been, for hundreds of years, as a fishermen village, as well, a Mayan ceremonial center dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of the moon and fertility.
Additionally, Isla Mujeres was recognized as a Magical Town of Mexico, granted due to its exquisite culture which includes a Mayan temple, its tranquil and relaxed Boho atmosphere, as well as for its gorgeous pristine beaches to kick back and delight your palate with enticing local cuisine.
How to Get to Isla Mujeres?
Getting to Isla Mujeres is very easy, however, the only way to do it, is by the sea, so you may want to have in mind the following recommendations:
If you are traveling by plane from your hometown:You will land at Cancun’s International Airport, so in case you didn’t purchase your ground transportation, you can do it directly at the airport counters, or just get one of the taxi cabs that are available to take you to the closest maritime terminal in the Hotel Zone
If you are driving a car from your hometown: If you are renting a car or driving your own and want to cross on to Isla Mujeres with it, you must drive to Punta Sam, located about 16 kilometers (10 mi) from downtown Cancun. The ferry crossing lasts between 40 to 50 minutes.
Isla Mujeres’ weather is mostly warm throughout the year, with an average temperature of 26 ºC (80 ºF). As a Caribbean destination, remember that humidity is high with an average of 80% year long.
Isla Mujeres is the perfect destination if you are looking to enjoy a dazzling tropical scene and escape to have some fun with a wide array of water activities.
The Most Popular Activities in Isla Mujeres
While visiting Isla Mujeres you will find a great number of activities to have a blast on your vacation, whether it is snorkeling or scuba diving through tropical reefs to swimming with dolphins and just chilling at one of the beach clubs sipping your favorite cocktail.
Visit the Beaches on the North Side of Isla Mujeres
Beaches located on the north side of Isla Mujeres are simply breathtaking and one of the most famous is named “Playa Norte”, with crystal-clear calmed waters that makes them one of the top spots to swim; it also has a small inlet to snorkel in a small reef area
Explore the South Side Isla Mujeres
Free your adventurer spirit and bustle away into the rugged areas located on the south side of Isla Mujeres, on board a golf cart makes it a bit funnier. Sunsets at the cliffs area are out of this world, don’t forget to bring your camera and start sharing them #NoFilters. A visit to the sculptures park in Punta Sur and the temple of Goddess Ixchel are a must.
Enjoy a Catamaran Ride and a Snorkel Tour in in Isla Mujeres
Aquatours puts at your disposal the joyful Isla Mujeres Pleasure tour departing from Cancun, which includes a catamaran tour to explore the Mexican Caribbean while snorkeling. During this activity you will also visit the underwater museum (MUSA), walk along downtown Isla Mujeres and relax at Discovery Island.
Living the Dream of Swimming with Dolphins
An excursion to Isla Mujeres won’t be complete at all if you don’t include a dolphin swim program. Pay a visit to Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres, enjoy a fun day with your new best marine friends, unwind in high-end facilities and delight with delicious meals.
I want to swim with dolphins
Taste the Exquisite Grilled Tikin Xic-Style Fish
The Tikin Xic style fish is a gastronomical jewel in the Yucatan Peninsula and is one of the most enticing dishes you cannot miss during your trip to Isla Mujeres. The traditional recipe lists among its ingredients grouper fish, axiote (a spicy-condimented paste) and local sour orange. For its cooking, fish is wrapped in banana leaves and slow cooked in a stone oven.
Take a Walk Across Downtown Isla Mujeres
As you stroll across downtown Isla Mujeres you will get to admire the picturesque style of its cobbled streets, colorful buildings and the magic vibe of souvenir stores; it is also very popular to go shopping in downtown Isla Mujeres. In Isla Mujeres you will find many stores, restaurants, gelato corners and some peddlers serving coconut water or ice cream, an experience you cannot miss!
Enjoy a Great Adventure at Garrafon Park
Garrafon is a natural park that features endless activities in Isla Mujeres. During your visit you can snorkel or kayak in the pristine waters. If you prefer, you can also fly away through zip lines or just relax at the temazcal, you can also admire the incredible views from the restaurants at Garrafon park.
I want to visit GarrafonRestaurants in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is for sure a culinary paradise for foodies. In this tiny island you will find a diverse gastronomical proposal that will delight the most demanding palate.
On the seaside you will find renowned restaurants to spoil your culinary cravings with fresh fruits of the sea, including shrimps, octopus, fried fish and lobster, among others.
On the other hand, the restaurants located in downtown Isla Mujeres will put on your table a great array of Italian and French as well as other specialties such as Mexican authentic delights.
Don’t forget to make your way on to the main square and try the deliciosos churros and marquesitas!
Accommodation and Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres?
Isla Mujeres offers many hotels to suit likes and budgets. Here, it is very unlikely to find big hotels or resorts as in some other destinations in the Caribbean, however, most of them owned by the island’s residents, they offer a comfy experience to sleep well and continue enjoying all your activities and excursions in Isla Mujeres.
If you are looking luxury hotels, you may find a few on the north and south sides of Isla Mujeres featuring stunning views, some of them with an all-inclusive plan so all additional budget can be fully focused to buy your favorite tours, excursions and water activities in Isla Mujeres.
Check out what guests of AquaTours visiting the south side of Isla Mujeres are saying on TripAdvisor
This place has it all! You can enjoy a calm stroll at the sculpture park and be by the ocean at the same time, learn about the history of this magic place, put on a picnic with stunning views or taste a delicious ice cream.
Check out what guests of AquaTours visiting Isla Mujeres are saying on TripAdvisor
"The best beach I’ve ever known! ❤️: crystal clear waters, white powder sand, incredible bars with refreshing drinks, it’s all you ever need!"
In the downtown area you will find more basic accommodation at a lower price, some of them may include:
In Isla Mujeres it is also very common to find houses or lofts for rental per day, week or month; if you are traveling with your best buddies , this might be a great option for you. Also, some of them are located in a privileged location by the ocean or the lagoon.
What to Do in Isla Mujeres at Night?
Isla Mujeres doesn’t have popular nightclubs as those ones you will find in Cancun or Playa del Carmen but you will find some beach bars with themed parties. Can you imagine what it is like to dance under the stars, with the sand between your toes and your favorite cocktail or beer in your hand?
It is important that due to Covid-19 sanitary restrictions, parties and meetings may not be permitted, and sometimes to remain with your party to keep the safe distance.
Recommendations while Visiting Isla Mujeres
Before visiting Isla Mujeres it is very important to have in mind some recommendations to make the most of your trip or stay in this marvelous Caribbean island.
- Bring with you cash or a credit card to buy some souvenirs.
- Pack one or two swimming suits.
- Book your tours and activities in Isla Mujeres from Cancun with Aquatours.
- Buy your dolphin swim programs in Isla Mujeres through the Dolphin Discovery official website.
- Purchase in advance your admissions to Garrafon Park at a discounted price.
- If you are visiting the island for one day only remember to travel light and make sure you have checked the ferry departure times .
- Take a stroll along the cobbled streets and admire the picturesque style of houses and buildings.
- Get a tour from the fishermen at the island’s downtown and enjoy a boat ride through the lagoon and main areas.
- Rent a golf cart or a motorbike to embark into a great adventure through the island
- Comply with all the preventive measures to avoid the risk of infection of Covid-19 during your trip to Isla Mujeres.
Although Isla Mujeres is a tiny island, you will always find new activities and ways to have an incredible time. Enjoy the impressive cultural and natural combination of this Magical Town and make some time to spend great moments with your friends, your sweet one or with your family with the best activities and excursions in Isla Mujeres available at AquaTours and Dolphin Discovery.
