If you want a paradise to relax, adventure, and experience culture, this guide to the Ultimate things to do in Isla Mujeres is perfect for helping you plan your next vacation. This dreamscape is ideal for couples, families, and even solo travelers.
Grasp real meaning in paradise when you explore this tiny island, after all it offers so much. Its crystal clear turquoise waters are alive with vibrant marine life and provide an easygoing atmosphere.
In this guide, I tell you everything you need to know: where to stay, how to get there, and what not to be missed once you arrive. From my practical experience, I also offer insider tips that the rest of us would need.
Your Complete Guide to Paradise, Things to do in Isla Mujeres: How to Get There, Where to Stay & Things to do
Taking the Isla Mujeres Ferry – How to get there
Getting to Isla Mujeres-Guide Isla Mujeres is accessible from Cancun via ferry service. The Isla Mujeres ferry is probably the most common and convenient way to get there.
I caught the ferry at Puerto Juarez and it runs frequently throughout the day. It takes about 15-20 minutes to onboard the ferry and land at Isla Mujeres. The trip is beautiful, with live music and fantastic ocean views setting the mood for your island adventure.
After the ferry ride, it was just a few minutes down the beautiful island via golf cart rentals from Isla Mujeres to our stunning Villa home!
Golf Cart Rentals in Isla Mujeres – The joy of getting around
One of the best ways to explore Isla Mujeres is by renting a golf cart. Golf cart rentals in Isla Mujeres are widely available and offer a fun, breezy way to get around.
Whether you’re heading to Playa Norte for a beach day or venturing down to Punta Sur, all things considered, a golf cart gives you the freedom to see the island at your own pace. I loved the ability to drive to Punta Sur early in the morning. This gave me the chance to experience the most magical sunrise of our trip—indeed, an unforgettable way to start the day.
Where to Stay: Finding the perfect island retreat
If you are a traveler looking for a quaint beachfront resort, a chic guesthouse, or an exclusive escape, without a doubt, Isla Mujeres has something for everyone. The massive Coco B Isla Villas, which I stayed at, can provide all these kinds of experiences.
With these stunning villas, guests can create a boutique resort experience, perfect for wellness retreats, weddings, or group getaways. Additionally, guests can also book individual villas and use them as boutique hotels. My time at CoCo B Villas was nothing short of extraordinary, with personalized service, gourmet dining, and incomparable ocean views.
Best Beaches in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with Playa Norte Isla Mujeres being the crown jewel. With its powdery white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding with a cocktail in hand.
Other beaches, like Playa Sol and Playa Lancheros, offer a more relaxed vibe and fewer crowds. Likewise, don’t forget that there might have a beach area attached to where you stay. This was the case with the CoCo B Villas we stayed at; it was our private paradise!
Best things to do in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres certainly has no lack of activities, whether you are an adrenaline junkie or need to put your feet up.
Here are a few essentials:
- Trip to Punta Sur–This southernmost point features stunning cliffs with breathtaking ocean views and the ruins of a temple dedicated to Ixchel. The Mayan goddess of fertility and love is worshipped here.
- Snorkeling & Diving—Isla Mujeres is famous for its sizeable underwater diversity, with many fish species that have never been seen on land. Go snorkeling at MUSA, the underwater sculpture museum. Alternatively, dive into the crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea and encounter vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.
- Swim with Whale Sharks – If you go to Isla Mujeres from June through early September, do not miss swimming next to these gentle giants. Swimming with whale sharks on the Isla Mujeres tour is a one-time experience!
- Explore Downtown—The town center has fun little shops, colorful murals, and tasty street food. It’s a great place to soak up the local culture.
- Enjoy a Private Wellness Experience—My own experience just had to be perhaps life-changing. Aside from sound healing therapy and private yoga sessions at your villa, you can arrange private massages on the balcony, at the poolside, or get a rubdown oceanside after sundown. Such bliss is beyond compare!
For more, see my complete post for the Top 15 Things to Do in Isla Mujeres!
Where to eat: Best Restaurants in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres boasts various restaurants that cater to everyone from sushi lovers to steak aficionados.
Some recommended spots include:
- Lola Valentina – which is popular with its creative cock¬tails and delicious fusion dishes
- Mango Café – a favorite breakfast spot that serves up heavenly chilaquiles
- Cafe Lacandoa – An adorable roadside WV Bus Coffee stand with outdoor seating
- Mama Rosa – The BEST place for Italian on the island
The culinary staff at CoCo B Villas, where I stayed, prepared my favorite meals. Two standouts were the most creative grouper dish I’ve ever had—the way it was cooked—and perhaps the most delicious, juicy pistachio waffles for breakfast.
Magical Sunsets & Unforgettable Moments
One of the most incredible things about Isla Mujeres is its stunning sunsets and sunrises. Each golden hour seemed like a dream. However, the standout for me was the private Mariachi concert arranged by CoCo B Villas. This allowed us to catch the sunset on our last night there, a moment I’ll never forget.
The island’s beauty exceeded my expectations in every way. From the bluest waters I’ve ever seen to the vibrant energy that makes it so unique.
Why Isla Mujeres should be on your bucket list?
Isla Mujeres delivers if you’re seeking adventure, an easy life, or both. This small island is alive with high-quality experiences, good food, and friendly people. I left feeling entirely enchanted and already dreaming of my next visit.
Be sure to check out my blog post, which will give you all the info you need about where to stay, including my marvelous time at CoCo B Villas!
Looking for more beautiful destination inspiration? Check out my Lisbon in a Day Itinereary. The perfect way to spend a day, or get your Lisbon Itinerary a kick start.
FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions – Isla Mujeres
Do I have to rent a golf cart to get around the island?
No, it is not required. However, it is a great way to see the island! In addition to renting a golf cart, you can take a taxi, walk to certain spots, or arrange transportation through your accommodations.
Is Isla Mujeres a good destination for families and groups?
Isla Mujeres is a great island destination for all groups and trips. There are so many things to do on this small island paradise, making it a great choice for family trips, weddings, retreats, and even large family reunions. Coco B Villas, where I stayed during my visit, is perfect for both large and small group vacations.
What are the top activities to do on Isla Mujeres besides the beach?
There are so many amazing things to do, but you can check out my other post, the Top 15 Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, for more information.
