Isla Mujeres is an island jewel set off the coast of Cancún, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico. Isla Mujeres is Spanish for Island of Women, and it traces its roots back to when 16th-century Spanish explorers discovered figurines of the Mayan goddess Ixchel on its shores. Today, it’s one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after getaway spots and is home to Playa Norte, among the world’s most stunning soft sand beaches.
Overview:
Best time to visit: December to April for warmer temperatures, and May to mid-September to spot whale sharks.
Boarding point: The Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas | Find on Google Maps
Expect to spot: Whale sharks, crustaceans, sea turtles, manta rays, and angelfish, among others.
Where should you start your Isla Mujeres tour from?
From Cancún
Distance from the starting point: 10.6km to the Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas
Travel time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Located at a convenient distance from the starting point
The Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas is situated on the coast of Cancún, making it the most convenient location to begin your tour. The ADO buses connect all parts of the city, making access convenient. If you book a tour with hotel pick-ups, you won’t have to worry about the logistics of navigating public transport.
From Tulum
Distance from the starting point: 136km from central Tulum to the Marina Adventure Bay
Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
Eliminate the hassle of transport with hotel pick-ups.
Tulum is a gorgeous town on Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, but it is about 136km from the starting point of your Isla Mujeres tour. Booking a tour with hotel pick-ups is ideal, as you won’t have to deal with the hassle of navigating the public transportation network.
From Costa Mujeres
Distance from the starting point: 15km
Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes to the Marina Adventure Bay
A quiet neighborhood located at a convenient distance from the bay.
Costa Mujeres is set about 30km north of Cancún’s Hotel Zone, and is ideal if you want to stay at an upscale resort with access to the beach. Once again, booking a tour with hotel pick-ups will be your best bet, as you’ll be chauffeured right from your doorstep to the bay and back.
What will your Isla Mujeres tour look like?
Arrive at the boarding point
Once you arrive at the Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas, you’ll check in and start with a safety briefing. If you choose a tour with hotel pick-ups from Cancún, Tulum, or Costa Mujeres, you’ll be chauffeured from your doorstep to the boarding point in an AC coach.
Things to know before booking your Isla Mujeres tour
Your Isla Mujeres tour is an all-inclusive, day-long experience, with transport to the island via a shared catamaran, an international buffet with regional blends, and free time to explore the island included.
The tour lasts approximately eight hours, and you get to choose one that begins in the morning (ideal if you want to catch the sunset on your way back) or the afternoon, with which you’ll catch the sunset while you’re at Isla Mujeres.
The tour begins from Marina Adventure Bay in Playa Tortugas, where you’ll board the catamaran after checking in. You have two options here: you can either choose a tour without pick-ups (for which you’ll need to arrive at the bay yourself) or one that includes pick-ups from your hotel in Cancún, Tulum, or Costa Mujeres.
You’ll get to enjoy a snorkeling experience, for which you’ll be provided with the gear on board the catamaran. An expert will accompany you throughout, so you’ll be in safe hands at all times.
The shared tour also includes the $20 dock fee per person, which you’d otherwise have to pay on-site in cash.
At the end of your tour, you’ll be brought back to the starting point, from where you’ll either have to organize transport back to your hotel, or enjoy a ride back if you choose an option that includes pick-ups.
Highlights of Isla Mujeres
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Pristine beaches and turquoise waters
The island’s biggest draw is its postcard-perfect coastline, with powdery white sands and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Playa Norte, consistently ranked among the world's best beaches, is ideal for swimming with its warm, shallow waters.
Snorkeling at the MUSA Underwater Museum
Just off the coast of Isla Mujeres lies the world-renowned Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA), an underwater sculpture park that combines art and marine conservation. You get to explore over 500 submerged statues, coral formations, and plenty of marine life, making it one of the island’s most unique and eco-conscious attractions.
Punta Sur and the Mayan temple ruins
At the island’s southernmost tip lies Punta Sur, the highest natural point in the Yucatán Peninsula. Here, you’ll find dramatic cliffs, panoramic ocean views, and the remnants of a small temple dedicated to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility.
Charming town center and local markets
In the lively downtown area (El Centro), you’ll find cobblestone streets lined with colorful murals, artisan shops, and plenty of seaside cafés. It’s the heart of island life and a brilliant place to get a taste of the easygoing Caribbean vibe.
Swimming with whale sharks
From mid-May to September, Isla Mujeres becomes one of the world’s best places to swim alongside gentle whale sharks. At about 12 meters long or roughly the length of two adult giraffes laid end to end, these majestic giants are bound to be the highlight of your tour, if you’re lucky enough to spot them.
Sunset sails on a catamaran
Don’t miss out on the amazing sunsets from your catamaran! They’re simply stunning, especially if you pick a tour that brings you back to the bay in the evening. It’s the perfect way to end your Caribbean adventure, and a sight worth capturing!
Popular stops on your Isla Mujeres tours
Playa Norte
Playa Norte dazzles with soft white sand and calm turquoise waters ideal for swimming, and has been voted among the Caribbean’s best beaches.
What you can expect: The soft sand beaches, swimming zones, and beach bars
Time required: 1 to 1.5 hours
Included in all tours
Downtown Isla Mujeres (Centro)
Experience the island’s colorful heart, dotted with local shops, murals, and seaside cafés along Avenida Hidalgo.
What you can expect: Handicraft markets, local eateries, and street art alleys.
Time required: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Included in all tours
El Meco Reef
Snorkel amid coral gardens and tropical fish at one of the island’s signature marine sanctuaries.
What you can expect: Coral reefs and sightings of countless marine species
Time required: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Included in all tours
Zaza Yatch and Beach Club
Your stop for a delectable buffet with a selection of great local blends. The club offers unbeatable ocean views and is a great place to lie back and soak in the Caribbean sun.
What you can expect: An international buffet, relaxed lounging, and stunning ocean views
Time required: 3 hours
Included in all tours
Snorkeling in Isla Mujeres
Snorkeling in Isla Mujeres is your chance to dive into a living aquarium of turquoise perfection. Slip on your mask and glide through crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful reef fish, graceful manta rays, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive whale shark. You might even spot sea turtles cruising by or schools of angelfish shimmering in the sunlight.
The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for beginners, and if you’re a seasoned snorkeler, you’ll relish the marine diversity in this underwater paradise.
Marine life you’ll encounter in Isla Mujeres
Whale shark
Meet the gentle giant of the Caribbean, and the world’s largest fish. Your best bet at spotting them is to go snorkeling between mid-May and September, and once you do, the adrenaline rush will be second to none. Take our word for it!
Sea turtles
Watch these calm ocean travelers paddle effortlessly past coral reefs. Every now and then, you’ll spot them surfacing for air and giving you a curious glance before vanishing into the blue.
Parrotfish
These rainbow-colored munchers constantly nibble on coral, helping keep reefs clean. You’ll spot them flashing brilliant blues and greens as they chatter underwater like the reef’s most stylish gardeners.
Eagle ray
Sleek, spotted, and stunningly elegant, eagle rays soar through the sea like underwater kites. You’ll catch them gliding past in formation, almost as if they were part of an aquatic ballet.
Angelfish
These bold, stripey divas love the spotlight. They’ll dart right up to you, flaunting their colors like they’re on a catwalk, primarily because they’re curious creatures.
Barracuda
Long, shiny, and lightning-fast, barracudas exude serious ocean attitude. Don’t worry, they’re just curious! You could spot one hovering midwater, perfectly still, or nestled in the crevices of the corals, waiting for the perfect moment to make a meal out of the passing fish.
Plan your Isla Mujeres tours
The starting point of your tour is the Marina Adventure Bay in Playa Tortugas, right on the edge of Cancún’s Hotel Zone. | Find on Google Maps
Getting there:
By bus: Bus routes R-1, R-2, and R-27 run from Cancún’s central terminal to the city’s Hotel Zone. If you’re in Tulum, you’ll have to take an ADO bus to downtown Cancún, from where you’ll have to transfer to a local bus to reach the Cancún Hotel Zone.
By car: If you’ve rented a car, you can even drive from Tulum, Cancún, or Costa Mujeres to the starting point.
Peak season:
The peak season to visit Isla Mujeres is between December and April, when the weather is warm, the beaches buzz with activity, and you get to enjoy the best sunsets along the way. However, the island can also get rather crowded during this period.
Low season:
The low season is between May and November. This period is ideal if your priority is fewer crowds, but it comes with the risk of the occasional tropical shower, which could disrupt your snorkeling plans.
Safety briefings: Your tour begins with a safety briefing, so you’re aware of what precautions to take for a seamless experience.
Bilingual guide: You’ll always be accompanied by an English and Spanish-speaking guide, who’ll tell you fascinating stories about the island’s discovery and history, its culture, and more.
Onboard restrooms: Your catamaran has restrooms onboard to ensure you’re always comfortable.
International buffet: Your stop at the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club will involve a delectable international buffet, along with the chance to savor some of the best local blends.
Snorkeling gear: You’ll be provided with all the essential gear to enjoy a safe yet thrilling snorkeling experience.
Optional hotel pick-ups: If you choose a tour that includes pick-ups from Cancún, Tulum, or Costa Mujeres, you’ll enjoy the convenience of seamless round-trip transfers directly from your hotel’s doorstep.
Tips to make the most of your Isla Mujeres tour
If you can, opt for a tour that includes hotel pick-ups. This way, you won’t have to deal with the hassle of navigating the public transportation network, especially if you’re staying in Tulum.
Carry extra cash on hand, especially in the Mexican Peso, for seamless transactions at smaller vendors or souvenir stores. This will also come in handy at stores that don’t accept credit cards.
Don’t miss out on trying Cochinita pibil, a slow-cooked pork dish native to the Yucatán Peninsula.
Enjoying the selection of local blends on the catamaran can be fun, but make sure to drink responsibly. A glass of water now and then can do wonders!
Stick to biodegradable or reef-safe sunscreens when going snorkeling. The reefs around Isla Mujeres fall within protected areas, and regular sunscreens are generally not permitted as their chemical composition can disrupt the delicate underwater ecosystem. You can also wear a rash guard, which protects both your skin and the corals.
Frequently asked questions about Isla Mujeres tours
The starting point of the cruise is the Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas. This is where you’ll check in and be briefed on the safety procedure before boarding your shared catamaran.
Absolutely! You’ll be given all the necessary gear on board, so you can enjoy your snorkeling experience in complete safety.
Yes, an English and Spanish-speaking guide will accompany you on your tour, offering fun facts and stories about the island’s history, the local culture, and tips to make the most of your time.
Yes, the reefs around Isla Mujeres are protected due to the delicate nature of the underwater ecosystem. As a result, you will need to take certain precautions, such as wearing only reef-safe or biodegradable sunscreens, as regular options are not permitted.
Yes, your tour includes free time that you can spend exploring the island’s streets. You can try out some of the local delicacies or pick up a souvenir or two as well.
Yes, if you choose a tour that includes pickups from Tulum, Cancún, or Costa Mujeres, you’ll enjoy comfortable round-trip transfers, eliminating the stress of dealing with public transportation.
It certainly does! You’ll get to enjoy an international buffet at the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club at Isla Mujeres, where you can also try some of the best local blends for an insight into the region’s culinary culture.
Yes, the $20 dock fee is included in the ticket price, so you won’t need to pay this on the day of your tour.
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Sail through the Caribbean on a shared catamaran, with snorkeling, buffet lunch & open bar.
Starting point: The Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas
Everything you get: Set sail on a shared catamaran, with snorkeling gear, an international buffet at the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club, and a selection of local blends. An English and Spanish-speaking guide will offer fascinating insights, and an audio guide ensures an immersive experience.
Sights covered: Enjoy stunning views of Cancún, the Caribbean Sea, Isla Mujeres, and the warm shallows at Playa Norte.
Why choose this: Cruise turquoise waters, snorkel among vibrant reefs, and explore Isla Mujeres stress-free.
Upgrades: Pick a tour that includes transfers directly from your hotel in Cancún, Tulum, or Costa Mujeres.
Inclusions
#
7-hour tour on a shared catamaran
Start your tour from a common meeting point (as per option selected)
Hotel pick-ups from Cancún, Tulum, or Costa Mujeres (as per option selected)
English and Spanish-speaking guide
Audio guide in English and Spanish
Snorkeling gear
International buffet at the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club with local blends
Bottled water
Soft drinks
Onboard restrooms
Exclusions
#
USD 20 dock fee per person (paid on-site by guests)
Tips
What to bring
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for a day on the water.
Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry additional cash for any tips or other discretionary expenses.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on board.
Pets and service animals are not allowed on the tour.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited before boarding.
Dangerous items, sharp objects, and flammable materials are not allowed on the catamaran.
Accessibility
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
This experience is suitable for guests of all ages.
Children up to the age of five can participate in the tour free of cost.
The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 60 people.
The USD $20 dock fee per person is mandatory and must be paid at the marina before departure.
If you choose a tour without pick-ups, you'll need to arrange transportation to the common meeting point - the Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas
The snorkeling activity may be cancelled in the event of bad weather, which could lead to rough waters.
#
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
SailCancún**’s turquoise coast on a private catamaran with an open bar & a snorkeling experience.**
Starting point: The Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas
Everything you get: Cruise the Caribbean on a half-day tour on board a private catamaran in a group of 10 people. Enjoy a guided snorkeling experience in the Cancún Reef Area with all gear included, along with an English and Spanish-speaking guide accompanying you throughout.
Sights covered: Savor panoramic views of the Caribbean's warm, crystalline waters and Cancún's stunning coastline.
Why choose this: Perfect for small and private groups seeking a personalized sailing adventure with regional blends, snorkeling, and local insights.
Upgrades: Choose a tour for 20 or 30 people if you're in a larger group, or extend your cruise for a full 7-hour adventure with an international buffet lunch and a stop to swim in the shallow blue waters at Playa Norte.
Inclusions
#
4 or 7-hour private tour on a catamaran for groups of 10, 20, or 30 (as per option selected)
Start your tour from a common meeting point in Cancún
Expert English and Spanish-speaking guide
Digital audio guide in English and Spanish
Snorkeling gear
Bottled water
Soft drinks and regional blends at the open bar
Onboard restrooms
Stop to enjoy swimming at Playa Norte (as per option selected)
International buffet at the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club (as per option selected)
Exclusions
#
Tips
USD $20 dock fee per person (to be paid at the marina)
What to bring
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for a day on the water.
Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry cash for the USD $20 dock fee, and for tips or other discretionary expenses.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on board.
Pets and service animals are not allowed on the tour.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited before boarding.
Dangerous items, sharp objects, and flammable materials are not allowed on the catamaran.
Accessibility
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
This experience is suitable for guests of all ages.
Children up to the age of five can participate in the tour free of cost.
The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 60 people.
You will need to arrive at the common meeting point for the tour (The Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas) on your own.
The USD $20 dock fee per person is mandatory and must be paid at the marina before departure.
The snorkeling activity may be cancelled in the event of bad weather, which could lead to rough waters.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Discover theYucatán**'s prized historical site and its coastal wonders with a single combo.**
Everything you get on your Isla Mujeres catamaran tour: Set sail from a common meeting point in Cancún on a shared catamaran, with snorkeling gear, an international buffet at Zaza Yacht & Beach Club, and local blends. Enjoy expert commentary in English and Spanish along with an immersive audio guide.
Everything you get on your Chichén Itzá tour: Enjoy a bilingual guided tour of Chichén Itzá in English & Spanish, round-trip transfers from a common meeting point in Cancún, a visit to Valladolid, access to a sacred cenote, and a Mexican-style buffet lunch.
Why choose this combo: Save 10% as you experience Cancún’s best treasures, from a stunning cruise along the Caribbean to its most prominent Mayan site.
Upgrades: Maximize convenience with the option to get seamless transfers directly from your hotel in Cancún, eliminating the need to reach a common meeting point.
Inclusions
#
Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour
7-hour tour on a shared catamaran
Round-trip transfers from a common meeting point in Cancún (as per option selected)
Hotel pick-ups & drop-offs in Cancún (as per option selected)
English and Spanish-speaking guide
Audio guide in English and Spanish
Snorkeling gear
International buffet & complimentary drinks at the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club
$20 dock fee per person
Chichén Itzá
Bilingual guided tour of Chichén Itzá in English and Spanish
Round-trip transfers from a shared meeting point in Cancún (as per option selected)
Round-trip transfers from your hotel in Cancún (as per option selected)
Panoramic visit to Valladolid
Access to a sacred cenote
Buffet-style lunch
Exclusions
#
Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour
Tips
Chichén Itzá, Valladolid & Cenote Tour
Local taxes worth US$42 per adult and US$7 per child
Mandatory life vest rental of US$9
What to bring
Isla Mujeres
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for a day on the water.
Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry additional cash for any tips or other discretionary expenses.
Chichén Itzá
Carry a valid ID or passport to validate your tickets.
Make sure to carry adequate cash, including smaller denominations of the Mexican Peso, to pay for any food, souvenirs, or tips along the way.
What’s not allowed
Isla Mujeres
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on board.
Pets and service animals are not allowed on the tour.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited before boarding.
Dangerous items, sharp objects, and flammable materials are not allowed on the catamaran.
Chichén Itzá
Drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed at Chichén Itzá
Pets and service animals are not allowed at the site.
You’re not allowed to touch or climb any of the monuments at Chichén Itzá.
Carrying large bags inside the site is prohibited.
You’re not allowed to bring food and drinks into Chichén Itzá.
Accessibility
Isla Mujeres
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Chichén Itzá
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or visitors with limited mobility.
Additional information
Isla Mujeres
This experience is suitable for guests of all ages.
Children up to the age of five can participate in the tour free of cost.
The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 60 people.
This experience includes the $20 dock fee per person, so you won't have to pay anything on the day of your tour.
If you choose a tour without pick-ups, you'll need to arrange transportation to the common meeting point - the Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas
The snorkeling activity may be cancelled in the event of bad weather, which could lead to rough waters.
Chichén Itzá
You’ll need to pay the tax on site via credit card (US$42 per adult and US$7 per child).
You’ll need to pay US$9 for the mandatory life vest rental at the cenote.
The pickup time will be confirmed 24 hours before the tour.
Your tour includes travel insurance.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Lunch Cruises
Isla Mujeres All-Inclusive Catamaran Tour from Cancún, Tulum & Costa Mujeres
Sail through the Caribbean on a shared catamaran, with snorkeling, buffet lunch & open bar.
Starting point: The Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas
Everything you get: Set sail on a shared catamaran, with snorkeling gear, an international buffet at the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club, and a selection of local blends. An English and Spanish-speaking guide will offer fascinating insights, and an audio guide ensures an immersive experience.
Sights covered: Enjoy stunning views of Cancún, the Caribbean Sea, Isla Mujeres, and the warm shallows at Playa Norte.
Why choose this: Cruise turquoise waters, snorkel among vibrant reefs, and explore Isla Mujeres stress-free.
Upgrades: Pick a tour that includes transfers directly from your hotel in Cancún, Tulum, or Costa Mujeres.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
8 hr.
Audio guide
Transfers available
Pickup available
Lunch Cruises
Cancún: Private Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling (10+ Guests)
SailCancún**’s turquoise coast on a private catamaran with an open bar & a snorkeling experience.**
Starting point: The Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas
Everything you get: Cruise the Caribbean on a half-day tour on board a private catamaran in a group of 10 people. Enjoy a guided snorkeling experience in the Cancún Reef Area with all gear included, along with an English and Spanish-speaking guide accompanying you throughout.
Sights covered: Savor panoramic views of the Caribbean's warm, crystalline waters and Cancún's stunning coastline.
Why choose this: Perfect for small and private groups seeking a personalized sailing adventure with regional blends, snorkeling, and local insights.
Upgrades: Choose a tour for 20 or 30 people if you're in a larger group, or extend your cruise for a full 7-hour adventure with an international buffet lunch and a stop to swim in the shallow blue waters at Playa Norte.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
4 hr. - 7 hr.
Audio guide
Meals included
Combos
Combo (Save 25%): From Cancún: Isla Mujeres All-Inclusive Tour + Chichén Itzá Tour
Discover theYucatán**'s prized historical site and its coastal wonders with a single combo.**
Everything you get on your Isla Mujeres catamaran tour: Set sail from a common meeting point in Cancún on a shared catamaran, with snorkeling gear, an international buffet at Zaza Yacht & Beach Club, and local blends. Enjoy expert commentary in English and Spanish along with an immersive audio guide.
Everything you get on your Chichén Itzá tour: Enjoy a bilingual guided tour of Chichén Itzá in English & Spanish, round-trip transfers from a common meeting point in Cancún, a visit to Valladolid, access to a sacred cenote, and a Mexican-style buffet lunch.
Why choose this combo: Save 10% as you experience Cancún’s best treasures, from a stunning cruise along the Caribbean to its most prominent Mayan site.
Upgrades: Maximize convenience with the option to get seamless transfers directly from your hotel in Cancún, eliminating the need to reach a common meeting point.
Free cancellation
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
