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Visit Isla Mujeres | highlights, restaurants, & pro tips

How to plan your visit to Isla Mujeres 

Overview

Just a short ride from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a stunning Caribbean island known for its powdery white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life., It’s one of the most popular day-trip destinations for travelers staying in Cancún or Tulum.

A catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres takes you sailing on the gorgeous Caribbean waters around the island. It includes snorkeling, an international buffet, and the chance to explore the island’s charming streets to soak in the local culture.

Travel logistics 

If you’re in Cancún, you can take a ferry to the island. This option is incredibly scenic, but will require you to navigate the island and its experiences on your own.

For a more seamless experience, join a guided catamaran day trip, which takes care of all logistics. Most tours include:

  • Snorkeling gear and safety equipment
  • Buffet lunch with local and international dishes
  • Bilingual guide
  • Optional hotel pick-ups from Cancún, Tulum, and Costa Mujeres

Plan your day

  • Quick visit (3 hours): Ideal if you’re short on time and primarily want to enjoy panoramic views of Cancún from across the Caribbean Sea. 
  • Half-day (4-5 hours): Set sail to the island on the ferry and grab a meal at one of the island’s many beach clubs. 
  • Full-day (7-8 hours): Head out from Cancún on an experience that includes snorkeling, a visit to the stunning beach at Playa Norte, free time to explore the island, and enjoy a meal with a selection of local blends. 

Handy tips

  • Tickets: You should book your Isla Mujeres tours at least a week in advance, especially during the peak season between December and April. 
  • Best time to visit: Book a tour with pick-ups in the morning to enjoy snorkeling during the day, and catch the sunset on your ride back to Cancún. 
  • Rules: Use only biodegradable or reef-safe sunscreens, as the reefs are protected areas. 
  • Accessibility: Unfortunately, the catamarans are not suitable if you’re wheelchair-bound or suffer from limited mobility.  
  • Pro tip: Book a tour that includes hotel pick-ups, especially if you’re staying in Tulum. This way, you avoid the hassle of navigating travel logistics to Cancún.

Top attractions on your Isla Mujeres day trip

Sail the Caribbean Sea

Start your day trip with a cruise to Isla Mujeres on a catamaran, with stunning panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Cancún in the distance. Sunbathe on the deck and savor a selection of complimentary local blends as you glide over the Caribbean’s turquoise waters. This journey in itself is a highlight!

Snorkel in the El Meco Reef

Dive into the crystalline waters to explore the El Meco Reef and snorkel among the corals around the island. Here you’ll encounter a treasure trove of marine life, and spot everything from sea turtles to parrotfish, manta rays, and possibly even the whale shark if you’re lucky.

Visit one of the world’s most stunning beaches

Along the way, you’ll stop at Playa Norte, known for being one of the most stunning soft-sand beaches globally. Take a dip in the warm, shallow waters, or simply lie back and soak in the unbeatable views around you.

Refuel at a stunning beach club

All this adventure calls for a sumptuous meal. Head to the Zaza Yacht & Beach Club, and enjoy an international buffet and a selection of the best local blends, while taking in the relaxed, tropical setting.

Explore Isla Mujeres on your own

Enjoy some free time to wander the colorful downtown (Centro). Browse local boutiques, shop for handcrafted souvenirs, or explore small cultural landmarks that reveal the island’s authentic character.

Catch the sunset on your ride back

A day trip to Isla Mujeres is incomplete without catching the sunset on your way back. Cancún’s coastline, the Caribbean’s glistening waters, and the panoramic views all around create the perfect backdrop for the star of the show—the blazing sun setting across the horizon.

Book day trips to Isla Mujeres 

Your day trip lets you book a ticket without pick-ups (this will require you to arrive at the starting point on your own), or one that includes pick-ups directly from your hotel in Cancún, Tulum, or Costa Mujeres. The latter is the option to go for if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of navigating public transportation.

Getting to Isla Mujeres

Day trips

A day trip is the ideal way to reach Isla Mujeres, with a ride on a catamaran and all other amenities on board covered. All you need to do is arrive at the starting point of your tour - the Marina Adventure Bay in Playa Tortugas. If you’ve booked a tour with pick-ups, you’ll be chauffeured back and forth between your hotel and the starting point in complete comfort.

  • Tour options: Morning or afternoon pick-ups
  • Prices: Starting from $79 for a tour with pick-ups

Via ferry

Since Isla Mujeres is an island off the coast of Cancún, the only way to get there is via a ferry. You can book your tickets in advance and board one from the port in Cancún’s Hotel Zone.

  • Frequency: Roughly every 20 minutes 
  • Cost: $15-$30 per person for a round-trip

How to get around in Isla Mujeres

If you’re staying downtown or in Playa Norte (and your luggage is light), we recommend exploring the island on foot. You can easily access all the shops, beach clubs, and more while getting a true taste of the local culture.

  • Time: 10-20 minutes between key downtown spots
  • Cost: Free
  • Best for: Beachgoers, solo travelers, photographers
  • Cons: Hot midday sun, uneven pavements, limited shade

Small shuttle buses and local vans run along the island’s main road, connecting the ferry port, Playa Norte, and Punta Sur. They’re cheap but can be infrequent or crowded in peak hours.

  • Time: 10-25 minutes end-to-end
  • Cost: Around $1-2 per ride
  • Pros: Budget-friendly, covers main attractions
  • Cons: Slow, limited schedules, no fixed stops

Taxis are easy to flag down near the ferry terminal and major beaches. Fares are fixed by zone, making short rides predictable and convenient, perfect for families or those avoiding the heat.

  • Time: 5-15 minutes per ride
  • Cost: $5-10 per trip
  • Best for: Comfort seekers, small groups
  • Cons: Higher cost than shuttles, limited late-night service

Scooters and golf carts are the go-to choice for exploring the island freely. The roads are narrow but scenic, but keep in mind that parking can be tight near Playa Norte and downtown.

  • Time: Flexible
  • Cost: $25-60/day (rental + fuel)
  • Best for: Couples, groups, independent explorers
  • Cons: Limited parking, traffic congestion, safety precautions required

Where to eat in Isla Mujeres

Lola Valentina

A restaurant with a lively, open-air setting known for its brilliant blends and all-day Mexican-fusion cuisine.

  • Where it is: Miguel Hidalgo, Centro - about a 5-minute walk from the ferry dock | Find on Google Maps
  • Cuisine: Modern Mexican and Caribbean
  • Rating: 4.6/5
  • Price point: 300-1000 MXN
  • Must-try: Loaded guacamole and the stuffed poblano (a mild chilli pepper native to Puebla, Mexico.

North Garden

On the lookout for a chill eatery with a menu that includes pancakes, tacos, salads, and fresh seafood? North Garden is a great place to check out, especially for breakfast.

  • Where it is: Carlos Lazo 14, Centro – near Playa Norte | Find on Google Maps
  • Cuisine: Café / Mexican breakfast & light lunch
  • Rating: 4.7/5
  • Price point: 100-300 MXN
  • Must-try: The banana pancakes are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Other brilliant options include the salmon bagel and eggs Benedict.

Playa Lancheros, La Casa del Tikinxic

A beachfront classic famed for fish prepared in the tikinxíc style, a must for a true local flavour.

  • Where it is: Beachfront, South end of Isla Mujeres | Find on Google Maps
  • Cuisine: Mexican / Seafood
  • Rating: 4.4/5
  • Price point: 300-600 MXN
  • Must-try: The Tikinxíc fish (grilled local catch with achiote sauce) is the men’s key highlight, and a must-try.

Los Tacos de Humo

A highly-rated taco stand loved for fresh fish tacos and big flavour on a budget.

  • Where it is: Downtown Centro, and a short walk from the main street | Find on Google Maps
  • Cuisine: Mexican / Street Tacos
  • Rating: 4.6/5
  • Price point: 100-300 MXN
  • Must-try: The fish tacos are the best item on the menu according to most customers, and the dish you must order. Other highlights include the Tacos El Pecado and Tacos de Dinga.

Tips from the locals at Isla Mujeres 

  • While you have the option to rent a car or a scooter to get around the island, locals recommend taking a walk. This way, you won’t miss out on any of the gems, including stores, sculptures, and the island’s other highlights.
  • Carry enough cash with you on your visit. While most stores accept credit cards, cash can come in handy at times, especially when you need to tip. Make sure to keep it in a zipped backpack, out of reach of the occasional pickpocket. 
  • If you’re going snorkeling, you must wear only reef-safe or biodegradable sunscreen, as regular sunscreens aren’t permitted. Your best bet at finding them is in Cancún, before you head to the island. 
  • Carry a waterproof dry bag for your phone, ID, and other essentials. It can be a lifesaver when dealing with splashes at the beach.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Isla Mujeres

How long does the typical day trip to Isla Mujeres last?

A day trip to Isla Mujeres will last roughly eight hours, as it includes experiences such as snorkeling, a visit to Playa Norte, a buffet, and free time to explore the town.

Where do the day trips to Isla Mujeres start from?

The starting point of your Isla Mujeres day trip is the Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas.  Find on Google Maps

Do the day trips include round-trip transfers?

Yes, you can choose a tour that includes round-trip transfers from your hotel in three places, including Cancún, Tulum, and Costa Mujeres. However, if you want to arrive at the starting point yourself, you can also book a tour without pick-ups.

Are the catamarans wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the catamarans are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

Will I be provided with all the gear needed for the snorkeling experience?

Yes, your tour includes snorkeling gear, so you won’t have to buy any of it on your own. You’ll also have a guide who’ll provide you with instructions for your safety underwater.

What’s the best way to get around the island?

You have several options, including walking, taking the local buses, or taking a cab. Walking around is the best way to go if you want to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

What is the best time to visit Isla Mujeres?

If you prefer warmer weather and beaches buzzing with activity, you should visit during the peak season between December and April. This is also the best time to go snorkeling without any weather-related hiccups. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience, the low season between May and November is ideal.

Do I need to carry cash with me?

Yes, carrying cash is always a great idea. It’ll come in handy at stores that don’t accept credit cards, or if you need to tip porters or other people along the way. Pro tip: Carry cash and other essentials in a waterproof dry bag when you’re going to the beach.