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Isla de la Pasión – The Secluded Island Paradise off the Coast of Cozumel
- Jenn & Leon
- Jun 28, 2022
- 10 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Also known as Passion Island in Mexico, this incredible island is approximately 1km from the island of Cozumel and can only be reached by boat.
It is referred to as a 'virgin' space because it remains largely untouched, with very few structures on the island.
The crystal-clear waters and brilliant white sands will instantly capture your heart as you enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this very special island paradise.
Read on for our highlights, the history, how to get there, the best time to visit Passion Island, and our experience rating.
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Our Passion Island Highlights
We first heard about this little-known island when we went for an afternoon snorkel at Corona Beach and Restaurant (an amazing place for free snorkelling on Cozumel Island), where we met fellow traveller Viktor from Poland.
He shared with us his adventures from the previous day and said it was a must-see while here.
We were very keen to check it out during our trip; with a name like Passion Island, how could we not!
We were a tad apprehensive and a bit nervous as the island seemed off the beaten path and a little out of our comfort zone, especially being our first month of full-time travel and adventure.
But it seemed like a great idea and we are so glad we did it in the end, as it helped us learn to trust our instincts when it comes to recommendations from ‘strangers’ / other travellers!
In absolutely every way, Passion Island lived up to its billing, and it became one of our top highlights during our 6 months in Mexico.
We bought Viktor a drink a couple of nights later to say thank you for the experience.
One of our favourite parts of travelling is the number of amazing people that we meet from around the world and the brilliant conversations that help to broaden all of our perspectives!
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Passion Island History: Ixchel, Goddess of Love
This island was first visited by the Mayans and was dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel.
Ixchel is the goddess of love, and it is no surprise that this beautiful island became a pilgrimage destination to honour her.
She was associated with fertility, health, water, and vegetation, all properties which epitomise this magical stretch of land.
Having already encountered a temple dedicated to her on the magnificent Isla Mujeres (another must-see island in Mexico), we were very excited to be here.
Legend has it from the story of Ixchel that every loving soul who dies becomes a star and that love is reflected in its brightness.
After stepping foot on this breathtaking island, it felt like everything around us was doing just that; the glistening water, the sparkling sand, the calm sea breeze.
The name Isla de la Pasión is no coincidence… we were not just enamoured by our surroundings, but we felt every inch of our love beaming in the sunlight here.
It is a romantic place where we felt at one with each other and indeed with nature itself!
How to Get to Isla de la Pasión (Passion Island), Cozumel
Isla de la Pasión is a private island located just off the northern coast of Cozumel, Mexico, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush mangroves.
Since it’s only accessible by boat, getting there is part of the adventure.
By Organized Tour
Most visitors reach the island via pre-booked excursions. Tours typically include transport, beach access, buffet lunch, and water activities. You can book:
● Directly through cruise lines docking in Cozumel
● Online with local tour operators (look for “Isla Pasión Day Pass” or “Catamaran to Isla de la Pasión”)
● At booths near the ferry pier or hotel lobbies
These tours often depart from Punta Langosta, Puerta Maya, or the Ferry Terminal area.
By Boat from Cozumel
By Jeep or ATV Tour
From Playa del Carmen or Mainland Mexico
⪢ Our Experience Getting to Isla de la Pasión
We made our way from a small dock called Colibrí, as shown on the map below.
Access to the dock we travelled from is via a dirt track road (which is in pretty bad condition and very secluded) that runs off the only main road in the area.
You can only really use an ATV or bike on this road, as there are some pretty big potholes!
We saw a couple of people walking too, but it is a fair walk just to get to this point, as you can see on the map.
We used an ATV, which was provided by our Airbnb host Eric, for which we were very thankful.
A few local people were standing around the dock, and we were quickly identified as tourists and ushered towards the boatman.
His English was good enough to let us know that he would drop us off and return when we were ready, so we agreed on a couple of hours. In hindsight, we wish we had stayed longer!
We were a little apprehensive about our agreement as it seemed sketchy at first. We agreed on a price of 80 pesos each, but he made us pay both ways upfront, which is not the way we are accustomed to doing things.
However true to his word, he did return, albeit a little late (which led to a few nail-biting minutes of feeling like Tom Hanks in Castaway), and he was great!
⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Isla de la Pasión and Beyond
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Isla de la Pasión hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay.
Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Best Time to Visit
⪢ Ticket Prices
Isla de la Pasión is a private island, so access is only available via guided tours or day passes:
● Day Pass (Beach + Buffet + Open Bar): 65–85 USD per adult
● Children (4–11): 40-50 USD
● Kids under 3: Free
● Combo Tours (ATV, catamaran, snorkeling, etc.): From 95–140 USD depending on inclusions
Prices vary by provider and season. Some cruise-line packages may include round-trip boat transport and activity bundles.
Depart from Cozumel by catamaran and navigate through the crystal clear waters while admiring the views of Isla de la Pasión.
Enjoy a complete lunch with snacks, fresh fruits, beer, rum punch, margaritas, and soft drinks while on board.
When you arrive at Isla de la Pasión, you have the choice to go snorkelling or paddleboarding around the island.
Alternatively, stay on the catamaran and enjoy floating hammocks or a floating mat. Interested? Book your tickets here.
Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). All prices are in U.S. Dollars. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Times
● Open Daily: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (varies slightly by tour)
Most half-day tours last between 3–5 hours.
Last ferry departures are usually by 4:00 PM, depending on weather and tour schedule.
⪢ Best Time to Visit
● Best Months: November to April – Dry season with calm waters and cooler temperatures
● Avoid: September–October, during peak hurricane season
Visit in the morning to enjoy a quieter beach and ideal snorkeling conditions. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends or cruise-heavy days.
Food & Drink on Isla de la Pasión
A visit to Isla de la Pasión isn’t just about white sand and turquoise water—it’s also a chance to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in paradise.
As we chose to venture there more privately, we brought our own food and snacks, as there are no actual stores or restaurants on the island.
Most day passes and tours include a buffet-style lunch, however, served in open-air dining areas shaded by palm-covered palapas. Expect a delicious spread of:
● Grilled meats, fresh salads, rice, and tortillas
● Salsas, tropical fruits, and sweet local desserts
● Options for vegetarians and children are often available
Many packages also come with an open bar, featuring:
● Local beer, margaritas, rum punch, soft drinks, and purified water
Food and drink offerings may vary slightly depending on the tour provider, but everything is freshly prepared and included in the price.
It’s recommended to notify your tour company in advance if you have dietary restrictions or allergies.
Things to Do on Isla de la Pasión
While Isla de la Pasión may be small and secluded, it offers plenty of ways to relax or explore, whether you're looking for full-on tropical bliss or a bit of light adventure.
⪢ Relax on the Beach
The main draw is, of course, the powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters—perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply swaying in a hammock beneath the palm trees.
⪢ Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Most day packages include non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, giving you a chance to glide through the gentle lagoon and enjoy panoramic views of Cozumel’s coastline.
⪢ Snorkeling
While Isla de la Pasión isn’t a deep snorkel destination, you can still enjoy casual shoreline snorkeling, spotting tropical fish in the clear shallows. Some combo tours also include boat-based reef snorkeling before or after visiting the island.
⪢ ATV or Jeep Adventures
Certain excursions combine the island visit with a 4x4 off-road tour through Cozumel’s jungle trails, adding a sense of rugged fun before you hit the beach.
⪢ Wellness & Weddings
The island is also a popular spot for yoga sessions, private beach weddings, and spa-style add-ons. Some tours offer romantic packages that include a candlelit lunch or a couple’s massage right on the sand.
⪢ Photo Ops & Birdwatching
Isla de la Pasión is also home to mangrove forests and nesting birds—great for nature lovers and photographers. Keep an eye out for herons and frigatebirds!
Note: Activities must be booked/arranged in advance, as there are no vendors on the island.
Watch Our Cozumel Highlights on YouTube
In this video, we explore Cozumel, Mexico, a popular cruise port on the Caribbean Sea.
We highlight our luxurious stay at the Westin Cozumel, featuring stunning views and a relaxing massage.
Plus, we offer budget-friendly tips, including a visit to the hidden gem of Passion Island.
We also stay at a local Airbnb with great amenities and explore the island on an ATV, visit restaurants, enjoy beautiful sunsets and beaches, and check out local ruins.
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world!
Our Isla de la Pasion
Experience Rating
In our view, Isla de la Pasión is a MUST VISIT location if you are in Quintana Roo. It is a real adventure to get there, and once you do, you will be completely mesmerised by the beauty and tranquillity of the island.
It is an amazing location to switch off from the world, and we felt an electric connection with each other there.
It does have a special energy and is not just a treat for the eyes but a treat for the soul.
Feel free to let us know your thoughts on the Isla de la Pasión in the comments.
Plus, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask! We are always happy to help. As always, thanks for following along on our journey!
FAQ: Isla de la Pasión – Cozumel’s Hidden Gem
Where is Isla de la Pasión located?
Isla de la Pasión (Passion Island) is a small, private island just off the northern coast of Cozumel, Mexico.
It’s reachable by boat or catamaran, typically as part of a tour or excursion.
How do you get there from Cozumel?
What makes the island special?
Can you visit independently without a tour?
What activities are available on the island?
Is it suitable for families with kids?
Is the water swimmable and clear?
How long do you spend on the island during a tour?
What should I bring?
Is Isla de la Pasión worth visiting?
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Fond memories xx
A really, REALLY good find!! An awesome spot which we would happily go back to!