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5 Things You Can’t Miss on Isla Mujeres, Mexico
- Jenn & Leon
- May 9, 2022
- 11 min read
Updated: Jul 21
If this stunning Mexican island were a hotel, it would be 5 stars!
This is a hugely popular holiday destination, and it is easy to see why. Amazing beaches, incredible sunsets and sunrises, delicious food, and awesome activities… it has it all.
Isla Mujeres, located in Quintana Roo, Mexico, is one of our favourite places of all time, and every time we think of it, we picture crystal clear waters, epic scenery, and great fun all around.
In this post, we show you just a few of the many reasons why you should come to this island of paradise, and some of the superb activities you can do during your stay.
In This Post...
Travel Resources
1. Rent a Golf Cart or a Scooter to Tour the Island
With rental prices per day at around 700 pesos, this is an activity not to be missed.
It is fun and you get to take in every inch of the picture-postcard sights of this gorgeous island! Ours was perhaps a little noisy, but it was relatively comfortable and very easy to use.
You can pretty much loop the entire island in 45 minutes or so if you do not stop, and the roads are well-maintained, so the ride is fairly smooth.
They are very common on the island, along with scooters, so drivers are very considerate to them!
We thoroughly enjoyed it and it was a convenient way to travel, with the ease with which we could stop off at random places for photos and refreshments.
To rent a golf cart, you will need a valid driver's license and your passport. Our licence was withheld by the store, and they returned it to us when we brought the cart back.
We also had to fill out a small form and detail our address and contact information.
Now let's check out some of the awesome places you can visit with your cart or scooter!
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2. Visit the Green Demon for an Epic Sunset View and an Authentic Mexican Vibe
Widely thought of as the best beach on Isla Mujeres, Playa Norte is famous for its incredible sunset views, plethora of quality bars, and beautiful fine sand.
After finding our Airbnb, it was the first place we visited; we made a beeline for the Green Demon after seeing what it had to offer from several other travellers on YouTube.
The Green Demon offers food and cocktails along with its famous beer buckets of 5 beers on ice.
They have many loungers to choose from and offer friendly and efficient table service to boot.
The loungers/beds cost around 100 pesos for the day, which we thought was well worth it, along with the colorful music and chill vibe! Then, of course, came THE sunset...
3. Explore Punta Sur for a Visit with the Iguanas and Breath-taking Views
The day we took our golf cart to this part of the island was probably our favorite!
It is a special place; after you make your way through the initial throng of ice cream vendors, souvenir shops, and food stalls, you get to see what the fuss is all about.
Punta Sur, at the Southern tip of the island, is the place where the sun first touches every day, and is also home to the Ixchel Temple and some VERY large iguanas!
There are so many of them here, and they are harmless enough, although we didn't get too close!
⪢ The Temple of Ixchel
Winding paths surrounded by sun-kissed greenery lead you to the stunning rock cliffs and the temple of Ixchel, a place sacred to the Maya who built it.
Ixchel is the goddess of childbirth and medicine, and there are many statues of her and women on the island.
The island is named Isla de Mujeres, meaning 'island of women' in Spanish.
This was also the very first Mayan Ruin we saw in Mexico, and its connection to women and hope made it even more special!
The island is also well known for its relaxed nature and safety, and happiness amongst its residents, and it is certainly something we felt as we paced our way through our time here.
We were enamoured with its beauty and charm.
We lost count of how many times we said 'we could live here' and 'we are coming back'. It is an alluring paradise for sure.
It is easy to see why so many people come to this island every year. It is a beautiful environment to relax and vibe with traditional Mexican culture, combined with its perfect location for weather and sun.
You will find memories here that will only ever draw a warm smile and a happy heart.
⪢ Consider Taking a Tour
A great way to explore the best of Isla Mujeres is by tour. Discover island cruises, snorkelling trips, sunset tours, and much more with Get Your Guide.
No matter where your travels take you, Get Your Guide offers the best way to connect with your destination. Book your tickets here.
4. Head to Kin Ha for Amazing Drinks and Fun in the Sun
This stunning oceanfront restaurant was a real highlight of our stay in Isla Mujeres.
The restaurant has a mix of Mexican and American cuisine, and it has a wonderful tropical vibe.
We stopped off here with our golf cart after glancing at the incredible view from the road. It almost looks like a portal to another world, and when you step through it, it just gets better!
We were so impressed by the food and feel that we booked a night at the accompanying Beachscape Kin Ha Villas Hotel.
The hotel was breathtaking, the suites were beautifully designed, and the facilities were just gorgeous.
We loved the infinity pools (of which there are three) and the luxury feel. It truly is a ‘beachscape’, and was reasonable in cost too.
The food was a real treat and was well-priced, given the location and service.
We were impressed and would have liked to have tried more of the menu. We would have, had we not only been here for a day!
There is not much more to say here as we feel the pictures speak for themselves.
This simply is a MUST-visit place, be sure to stop by and grab an awesome cocktail and relax in the sun with THAT view.
5. Try the Street Food Tacos for an Authentic Taste of Mexico
On our way back from Norte, we came across a street with several food stands and decided it was time for our must-visit taco experience.
Synonymous with Mexico, street food is a traditional way to try classic Mexican cuisine – and wow, were they good.
Unfortunately, the stand we found did not have a name to mention, but it was probably the best tacos we ate in all of Mexico, and given that we were there for 4 months after visiting Isla Mujeres, that is a high compliment.
The food was not the only great thing – the service was too.
Just a 5-minute walk from the beach and just off the main street, we highly recommend trying one of these places.
They usually have seating, offer cold beverages, and the prices are pretty reasonable, too.
You will not regret it; we were so impressed that we were even calling over passers-by to try the food!
💡 Travel Tip: When eating street food in other countries, always go where the locals are for the most affordable, safest, and tastiest experience!
How to Get to Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a tropical gem located just off the coast of Cancún in the Caribbean Sea. The only way to reach the island is by boat, and fortunately, it’s quick, easy, and scenic.
By Ferry from Cancún
The most popular and reliable way to reach Isla Mujeres is by Ultramar ferry, which departs from several terminals in Cancún:
● Puerto Juárez Terminal (most frequent service – every 30 minutes)
● Hotel Zone (El Embarcadero, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Caracol) – limited daily departures
Crossing Time: Approx. 15–25 minutes, depending on departure point
Cost: Around $10–15 USD one way (discounts for round-trip tickets or locals)
Ferries operate daily from 5:00 AM to midnight, with return boats running late into the evening. The ride offers beautiful coastal views and comfortable seating.
From Cancún Airport
If you're flying into Cancún International Airport (CUN), take a taxi or pre-booked shuttle to Puerto Juárez Ferry Terminal—about a 30–40 minute drive depending on traffic.
Many travelers opt for combined airport + ferry transfer packages.
By Private Boat or Tour
Some visitors arrive via private yacht, catamaran, or day tour, especially from Cancún or Playa del Carmen.
Many tour operators include snorkeling stops and lunch before dropping you off at Isla Mujeres.
⪢ Once on the Island
Ferries arrive at Isla Mujeres Ferry Terminal, right in the town center. From there, you can explore on foot, rent a golf cart, or hop in a taxi to get around the island easily.
Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Best Time to Visit
⪢ Ferry Tickets
● One-way: 10–15 USD per adult (varies by terminal and time)
● Round-trip: 20–27 USD
● Children (under 1.2m): approx. 8 USD
● Locals and Mexican nationals: May receive discounted fares with ID
⪢ Island Activities
● Punta Sur Park: 5 USD entry
● Garrafón Natural Reef Park: Packages range from 15 to 25 USD, depending on activities
● Snorkeling tours: 30–60 USD. Many beach clubs and attractions offer free entry with a food/drink minimum.
Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). All prices are in United States Dollars. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Times
● Ferries: Run daily from 5:00 AM to midnight, with the most frequent departures from Puerto Juárez
● Punta Sur & Beach Clubs: Typically open 9:00 AM – 5:00 or 6:00 PM
● Garrafón Park: Open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (check ahead for seasonal hours)
Shops, rentals, and restaurants stay open later in the town center.
⪢ Best Time to Visit
● Best Months: December to April – Dry season, calm seas, and great weather
● Avoid: September and October – Peak of hurricane season.
● Best Time of Day: Morning ferries (before 10 AM) to beat the crowds and midday heat
Tip: Arrive early if planning to rent a golf cart, as they sell out quickly during high season
More from Isla Mujeres on YouTube
Before you go, why not check out our very special Isla Mujeres YouTube video for more on this stunning island!
We explore the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres, and share our Airbnb, hotel, golf carts, beach clubs, and epic sunsets on this island of turquoise water and sprawling sandy beaches.
We've formatted the video into two parts. The second portion of the video explores the south end with a stay at the Casa de Los Suenos Boutique Hotel and the beach club restaurant Kin Ha.
We tour the island on a golf cart and visit the Mayan Ruins of Ixchel at the southernmost tip of the Island, an absolutely beautiful must-see location also widely known.
One showing the more budget option to explore this island, with part two being a higher budget way to explore the island.
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!
FAQ: Isla Mujeres – Visiting Mexico’s Peaceful Island Paradise
Where is Isla Mujeres located?
Isla Mujeres is a small island just 13 km (8 miles) off the coast of Cancun, in the Caribbean Sea.
It's reachable in 15–20 minutes by ferry from Cancun’s Hotel Zone or Puerto Juárez terminal.
How do I get to Isla Mujeres?
You can take a passenger ferry from:
● Puerto Juárez (most frequent and budget-friendly)
● Hotel Zone terminals (more convenient for tourists)
Ferries run daily, with return tickets available and schedules every 30–60 minutes.
Do I need to stay overnight, or is a day trip enough?
Both are great! Many visit as a day trip, but staying overnight allows you to enjoy the quiet beaches, local restaurants, and beautiful sunsets without the daytime crowds.
What are the top things to do on Isla Mujeres?
● Relax at Playa Norte (one of Mexico’s best beaches)
● Rent a golf cart to explore the island
● Visit Punta Sur for cliffs, sculptures, and sea views
● Snorkel at Garrafón Reef Park or MUSA Underwater Museum
● See sea turtles at Tortugranja
● Enjoy fresh seafood and local tacos
Is Isla Mujeres good for snorkeling and diving?
Yes! The island is surrounded by coral reefs and calm, clear water. Top spots include Garrafón, El Farito, and the Underwater Museum (MUSA).
How do I get around the island?
The best way is by golf cart rental, available near the ferry terminal. Scooters and bikes are also an option, and taxis are available for short trips.
Is Isla Mujeres family-friendly?
Absolutely. With calm beaches, interactive marine life centers, and a safe, laid-back vibe, it's perfect for families with kids of all ages.
What should I pack for a day trip?
Essentials include:
● Swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen
● Hat, sunglasses, and water shoes
● Cash (some spots may not accept cards)
● A waterproof phone case or dry bag if snorkeling
Can I use U.S. dollars on Isla Mujeres?
Yes, many places accept USD, but it’s better to use pesos for better exchange rates. ATMs are available on the island.
Is Isla Mujeres worth visiting?
Definitely! It's a peaceful escape from Cancun’s hustle, offering natural beauty, rich culture, and local charm all packed into a small, walkable island.
Easily Find Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Beyond
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Isla Mujeres hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay.
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One of our favorite destinations in 4 years of full-time travel. Still yet to find an island with the allure and beauty of this one! Will most certainly be back one day!