Isla Mujeres
Cancun, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan
Isla Mujeres (“Island of Women”) is known for its rich marine life and pristine beaches. Here you can snorkel at Manchones Reef, scuba dive in the Cave of Sleeping Sharks, or stretch out on the white sands of North Beach (Playa Norte). On land, you’ll find bustling nightlife and oceanside restaurants serving fresh seafood. It is a must-see destination for beach and wildlife lovers.
The basics
Most Isla Mujeres tours leave from Cancun, whether you want to travel by sailboat, catamaran, or motorboat. A snorkeling excursion is one of the best ways to experience the island’s diverse aquatic life. Many day trips visit the Manchones, El Meco, or Garrafon reefs.
If you’re feeling daring, some tours include a swim with whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish. Combo tours from Cancun allow you to visit Isla Mujeres along with other Riviera Maya attractions such as Contoy Island (Isla Contoy), Xcaret Park, or Chichen Itza.
Things to know before you go
Isla Mujeres is a must-see destination for beach and wildlife lovers.
Remember to bring a towel, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.
It’s a good idea to bring cash (pesos) for gratuities or other purchases.
How to get there
You’ll find Isla Mujeres just off the coast of Cancun. Ferries run from the mainland every half hour and drop off at the island’s downtown area, close to the beaches and shopping streets. Because the island is only five miles (eight kilometers) long, most people rent a golf cart or use a scooter to get around.
When to get there
Winter is the busiest time to visit, when the weather is warm and dry. Hurricane season runs from May through September and often brings rain and clouds. July and August are the best months to see whale sharks. If you’re lucky, you’ll see hundreds of them gathered off the coast.
Things to Do Near Isla Mujeres
Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a paradise for ocean lovers who appreciate clear Caribbean waters. Meanwhile, history buffs will want to visit ancient Maya ruins like Tulum and Chichen Itza. Popular mainland destinations include Cancun and Playa del Carmen, while the nearby island of Cozumel is an excellent scuba diving destination, known for its rich coral reefs.
Ways to explore
Most Isla Mujeres tours leave from Cancun, whether by sailboat, catamaran, or motorboat. A snorkeling excursion is one of the best ways to experience the island’s diverse aquatic life, and many Isla Mujeres day trips visit the Manchones, El Meco, or Garrafon reefs. If you’re feeling daring, some tours include a swim with whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish. Combo tours from Cancun combine Isla Mujeres with other Riviera Maya attractions such as Contoy Island (Isla Contoy), Xcaret Park, or Chichen Itza.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible for the most part, though specific businesses may differ
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bathing suit and towel (you’ll want to dive straight into the Caribbean Sea), cash (pesos) for gratuities or other purchases
What to wear
Light layers, footwear that slips off easily
Not allowed
Driving golf carts under the influence of alcohol
Amenities
Hotels, restaurants, ATMs, Wi-Fi
Address
Isla Mujeres is located just off the coast of Cancun. Because Isla Mujeres is only 5 miles (8 kilometers) long, most people use golf carts or scooters to get around.
Driving
You can take cars on the ferry that departs from Cancun. Otherwise, both street parking and on-site parking are available at the ferry terminal.
Public transportation
Ferries run from the mainland every 30 minutes and drop you off at the island’s downtown area, close to the beaches and shopping streets.
Best times to visit
If you stay overnight on Isla Mujeres, you can enjoy sunrise and sunset without the day trip crowds.
Best days to visit
The middle of the week is typically the quietest.
Best months to visit
November through February sees the best weather but the largest crowds. Hurricane season runs from May through September and often brings rain and clouds.
Special events
July and August are the best months to see whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, as hundreds gather off the coast this time of year.
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