Isla Blanca
Cancun, Mexico
This sliver of a peninsula on the northern tip of Cancun is sandwiched between a lagoon on one side and the Caribbean on the other. Unlike the buzzy resort town, Isla Blanca has no high-rise hotels or nightclubs. Instead, you’ll find kitesurfers gliding across Laguna Chacmuchuch, anglers fly fishing, and bird watchers. The virtually untouched strip of land attracts travelers who want to get off the beaten path.
The basics
Because the beaches of Isla Blanca can be tricky to access, it’s best to book a guided tour, such as a birdwatching or fly-fishing excursion from Cancun. Once there, take a kitesurfing lesson. Known as a prime kiteboarding spot, Laguna Chacmuchuch boasts flat, shallow waters and strong, consistent winds, making it ideal for beginners and experienced kiteboarders. Isla Blanca also has some rustic beach clubs where you’ll typically find the locals. But keep in mind that amenities here are limited so come prepared.
Things to know before you go
Isla Blanca means “white island,” but it’s actually a long peninsula.
Cell phone service here is spotty.
Be sure to bring cash; credit cards aren’t accepted on Isla Blanca.
How to get there
Located 12 miles (20 kilometers) north of downtown Cancun, Isla Blanca is accessible by car via Avenida Bonampak, which turns into a hard-packed sand road in Isla Blanca. The road eventually opens up to beaches on both sides of the peninsula. You can also grab a taxi from the Hotel Zone and downtown to Isla Blanca. Remember to arrange your return trip with your driver ahead of time. Shared vans (colectivos) also run daily trips from downtown to the peninsula.
When to get there
Expect to encounter the biggest crowds on Sundays when the locals visit. Otherwise, Isla Blanca will basically be empty for the rest of the week, even during peak season. If you plan to go kitesurfing, you’ll experience the best wind conditions from November to June, and the best flying happens from May to September.
Isla Contoy
Just a short distance north of Isla Blanca, you’ll find Isla Contoy. This protected island boasts palm-lined beaches and mangroves with pelicans, cormorants, and nesting turtles. Because it’s located on the barrier reef, the island is considered a top-notch diving and snorkeling destination and is a popular day trip option from Cancun.
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