Contents
- Isla Mujeres – A Tiny Island that is BIG on Fun!
- Planning a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres – The Best Ways to See the “Island of Women”
- The Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres on a Day Trip
- Relax on the Beach at Playa Norte
- Explore Downtown Isla Mujeres
- Admire The Sea Wall Murals
- Rent A Golf Cart and Explore the Island
- Admire the Sculpture Garden at Punta Sur
- Snorkel MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art)
- Go Sport Fishing
- Swim With Whale Sharks
- SCUBA Dive the Mesoamerican Reef
- Find Your Perfect Private Beach Club
- Snorkeling in Isla Mujeres
- Volunteer with Isla Animals
- Explore the Municipal Market
- Visit the Women´s Beading Co-op
- Check Out Isla´s Best Restaurants
- Sunset Cruise on a Catamaran
- Catch the Sunset from Playa del Sol
- Other Cool Ways to Make a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
- Things NOT to Forget for Your Day Trip on Isla Mujeres
- A Day Trip to Isla Mujeres: What is the Best Way for You?
Isla Mujeres – A Tiny Island that is BIG on Fun!
Isla Mujeres (pronounced “EES-la moo-HEH-res”) is a charming island located in the Mexican Caribbean Sea just 13 kilometers off of the coast of Cancun and an easy 20-minute ferry ride from the ferry terminal at either Puerto Juarez or the hotel zone. While “Isla” is just a half hour from Cancun, the laid-back vibe and the charming people of the island will make you feel like you are a world away from the hustle and bustle of Cancun.
This small island has a fascinating history, dating back to pre hispanic times. The Maya revered this tiny island and would make pilgrimages from the mainland to its white sand shores to offer gifts to the goddess Ixchel. These female-type carved figurines were found at the altar of Ixchel and scattered all over the island. When the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, they named the island the ¨Island of Women¨ because of the relics they discovered there.
Today, Isla Mujeres is a thriving tourist destination and one of the most popular places to visit in the Yucatan peninsula. If you are planning a trip to Cancun, Playa del Carmen or anywhere along the Riviera Maya, one of the best things you can add to your travel itinerary is a day trip to Isla Mujeres.
Despite being so tiny, just under 5 miles long and only half a mile wide, there are so many interesting things to do in Isla Mujeres including spectacular beaches, and the Ixchel park, where you will find the iconic statue of the goddess, watching over the island.
There are many terrific hotels and vacation rentals on Isla Mujeres, and given my choice, I like to stay at least a day or two. However, if you have limited time in your travel itinerary and you want to explore the island, you can see and do a lot on a day trip to Isla Mujeres from Cancun.
In this article, we will explore the island, how to get there, what you can see and do, the best time to visit as well as some recommendations for a perfect Isla Mujeres day trip.
Whether your ideal day on Isla is spent relaxing under the palm trees on Playa Norte, checking out all the beach clubs on the island, swimming with whale sharks or SCUBA diving the coral reefs, this guide will have some great recommendations for the perfect day trip to Isla Mujeres
Planning a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres – The Best Ways to See the “Island of Women”
The best way to visit Isla Mujeres is going to be determined by several factors.
How much time do you want to spend on your Isla Mujeres day trip?
How do you like to travel? Do you enjoy organized tours or do you like to DIY your adventures?
How much time do you want to spend on the water? … Do you get seasick?
What is your travel budget for this excursion?
Let´s explore the options and find the best way for you to plan the perfect day trip to Isla Mujeres.
Catamaran Sailing Trips – An All-Inclusive Isla Mujeres Day Trip by Sea
Depending on the kind of traveler you are and how you like to spend your day, a group catamaran tour may be the best and easiest way for you to experience Isla Mujeres. All of the catamarans depart from Cancun in the morning. Depending on the tour operator you choose, transportation from your hotel or resort may be provided.
If you are staying in Playa del Carmen or Tulum and want to visit Isla Mujeres, this may be a very convenient and fun option for you as these tours will provide transportation to the departure dock in Cancun leaving you to just sit back and enjoy the ride.
What can you expect on a Catamaran Day Trip to Isla Mujeres?
First and foremost…you can expect to have fun!
There are lots of these tours offered and we can recommend a few. By and large, you can expect to set sail in the morning. Food and drink will be provided on the boat. There will be an opportunity to snorkel if you like in an area with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish and other marine life to spot.
Most of the boats have an arrangement with a popular beach club where you can spend some free time on the beach. There is generally some sort of buffet lunch offering as well. You will need to confirm with your tour operator what is included in the price. Most of the boats offer an open bar after the snorkeling stop.
Some of the boats will let you off in the downtown area of the island to wander Hidalgo, site see and do a bit of souvenir shopping. This is a nice opportunity to explore a bit. You might even have enough time to rent a golf cart for an hour and see even more of this small Caribbean island.
If you like meeting new people, a bit of a party scene and will be comfortable on a boat for several hours, a catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres may be the best day trip option for you!
Going to Isla Mujeres on Your Own – DIY Adventure!
Not everyone is a fan of organized tours. I personally fall into the category of people who like to plan their own adventures. I have visited Isla Mujeres dozens of times and almost all of those trips were done without a guided tour.
You can absolutely have a great time on Isla Mujeres without a guided tour and in fact, I prefer to see the island this way. The only additional aspects to consider will be how to get to Isla Mujeres from wherever you are staying and how you will get around on the island.
Our article – How To Get To Isla Mujeres – covers in detail how to get from Isla Mujeres from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum but I´ll provide a quick overview here.
The most popular way to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres on your own is to use one of the passenger ferries. The boat ride will take just 20 minutes and offers you the most amazing views across the spectacular turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, the sun-drenched coast of Cancun, the glittering white hotel zone and the island of Isla Mujeres.
There are several ferry terminals situated at different points along the coast in Cancun, so you’ll have no trouble finding one that is convenient for you. There are different options you can consider. The boats leave the ferry terminal at Gran Puerto Cancun in Puerto Juarez every 30 minutes. There are also ferries in the Cancun Hotel Zone departing from Playa Caracol, Playa Tortugas and El Embarcadero. These run less frequently but if you are staying in the hotel zone, these will be most easily accessible for you.
There are ferries leaving Cancun starting as early as 6 AM. You can go to Isla Mujeres at any time but I would suggest you set off as early as you can and really make the most of your day on the island. You can buy a round trip ticket but we think the best option is to get a one-way ticket which will give you a bit more freedom with your return to Cancun.
For more detailed information about the ferry timetables and costs, read our article about getting to Isla Mujeres.
The Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres on a Day Trip
For such a tiny island, there is a ton to do and see. It´s not possible to do it all in one day so you will have to pick the things that are the most fun for YOU….and come back another time for the rest!
Having been to Isla many times, these are the things that we have enjoyed doing on the island. Some of these suggestions may take you a whole day or a good part of the day and may warrant a special trip of their own. If so, I´ll make sure to point that out.
Relax on the Beach at Playa Norte
Playa Norte is renowned as one of the best beaches in Mexico. The clear, shallow water makes this beach ideal for anyone looking for a quiet swim. The beaches are soft and clean with plenty of space to stretch out your towel and relax in the sun.
Playa Norte is just about a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal and is probably the most popular place for day trippers coming from Cancun. Despite its popularity, this section of the beach has plenty of beach clubs to choose from, each with loungers and umbrellas. Some even have swings and hammocks to laze around in!
The beach and the shallow water just in across from the iconic MIA Reef Hotel are sought after by families. This is a great place to go with kids who are just getting used to the ocean. Its also a nice place to do some easy snorkeling in a safe and controlled atmosphere.
Playa Norte has been called one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean and we think it lives up to the hype! It´s definitely worth a few hours of your time if you are spending the day on the island.
Explore Downtown Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres town has definitely been commercialized for tourism over the years but it’s still a lovely place to wander around and explore. Hidalgo attracts the most crowds but turn onto any side street and you will find cute little shops and colorful homes, quaint cafes, restaurants, and ice cream places, each more charming than the last.
After a day on the beach, take some time to stroll around, check out the Mercado, the zocalo and maybe even the original public cemetery. There is a lot to see if you take your time and keep your eyes open!
Admire The Sea Wall Murals
Downtown Isla Mujeres is home to some stunning examples of urban art. Many of these works have been done as a part of the Sea Wall Project.
In the summer of 2014 a group of artists, created a series of large-scale ocean-themed murals on Isla Mujeres. This group of acclaimed street artists from Mexico and around the world, joined forces and, in cooperation with PangeaSeed, painted this series of murals in downtown Isla to raise awareness of the importance of whale shark conservation and to promote sustainable tourism.
Led by PangeaSeed, an international organization that is dedicated to protecting and preserving the world’s oceans through education, activism and art, the Sea Wall Mural project has reached hundreds of thousands of people and helped to bring attention to the urgency to protect our oceans and all of our natural resources before it´s too late.
There is a map of all of the locations that you can follow to see all of the Sea Wall Murals. It will take an hour or so to see all of them but you can sightsee, shop and stop for something to eat along the way.
Rent A Golf Cart and Explore the Island
Renting a golf cart is the absolute best way to experience Isla Mujeres’ rich beauty. These gas-powered vehicles are ubiquitous on the island. Once you arrive on the island, you will see loads of places offering golf cart rentals by the hour, the day, the week and even the month.
For the day, you can expect to pay between 55 USD and 65 USD and you will need to leave a valid driver’s license as a “deposit”. This will be returned when you turn in the cart at the end of the day. There are a lot of carts rental on Isla Mujeres BUT they can be in short supply during peak seasons or on the weekends, so advance reservations are recommended.
You can see the whole of the island in one day with a golf cart. From town, head south along the main road and explore the west coast. Here you can find some very nice beach clubs, good snorkeling spots and places to eat.
Setting out from Punta Sur back towards town, drive along the island’s eastern edge. This route showcases an impressive, rugged coastline with awe-inspiring ocean views. A smattering of picturesque, albeit non-swimmable, beaches pepper the landscape, perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments.
Despite its small size, Isla Mujeres boasts a wealth of sights that can be leisurely covered in half a day with a golf cart, depending on your interests. Just remember to follow the rules of the road and never drink and drive.
Admire the Sculpture Garden at Punta Sur
Punta Sur is located on the southern tip of Isla Mujeres. At 60 feet above sea level, this is the highest elevation in the Yucatan and was home to an ancient temple honoring the Mayan Goddess Ixchel. Here you can visit what remains of the ruins, shop for some islandy souvenirs or simply admire the remarkable views. This is a gorgeous place to come and enjoy the scenery and take some fantastic Insta-worthy photos.
The sculpture garden at Punta Sur is an experience that marries natural beauty with human creativity. There is a small fee to pay to enter but it is well worth it.
As you step away from the crowds onto the white sandy pathways, you’re greeted by a diverse array of outdoor sculptures, each piece thoughtfully placed amidst the lush tropical foliage with the Caribbean Sea providing the perfect backdrop. The sculptures, crafted by artists from Mexico and around the world, are a testament to the fusion of global cultures and perspectives.
In addition to the beautiful sculptures, this is one of the most dramatic vistas on the whole island. From this point, you can see both sides of the island, the mesmerizing blue colors of the water on the west side and the relentless crashing of the waves into the rocky coast on the east side.
Snorkel MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art)
If you are an avid snorkeler you will definitely want to experience the captivating wonder of MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art, just off the coast of Isla Mujeres. This unique attraction showcases over 500 sculptures created by the talented artist Jason deCaires Taylor. While glass-bottom boat tours offer a glimpse of the submerged artworks, the best way to truly immerse yourself is through snorkeling or scuba diving.
MUSA was conceived not only as a tourist destination but also as an artificial reef to support coral growth and marine life. Divided into two galleries with three salons, varying in depth, the site caters to snorkelers and scuba divers alike.
Whether you’re a certified diver or a first-timer, MUSA promises an enchanting journey beneath the waves, where art and marine life unite in harmony. Incorporating MUSA into your itinerary unveils an extraordinary dimension of this tropical paradise. Don’t miss the chance to partake in this remarkable underwater adventure that celebrates art, conservation, and the mesmerizing world of the ocean.
Exploring MUSA is best done on an organized tour and there are options that leave from Cancun as well as Isla Mujeres. This excursion will take up a good part of your day, so keep that in mind when you are planning your itinerary.
Go Sport Fishing
The crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding Isla Mujeres offer a haven for fishing enthusiasts, with opportunities for deep-sea, inshore, and spearfishing adventures.
For a family-friendly option or those prone to seasickness, there are operators staying closer to the shore, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable experience.
Fishing is great any time of the year but if you are a dedicated sport fisherman the peek season is from mid-December to the end of July. April to August is the best time for landing billfish like Sailfish and Marlin.
No matter your fishing preferences, Isla Mujeres boasts a range of charter operators catering to all needs, from charter boats to private yacht tours. With experienced crews and state-of-the-art equipment, these fishing excursions promise to be both exhilarating and rewarding.
You can find recommended Captains and boats here.
Swim With Whale Sharks
Swimming with the majestic Whale Sharks off the coast of Isla Mujeres is a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience. The only time to witness these gentle giants in Mexico is from June to September.
Reaching lengths of up to 14 meters and weighing around 15 tonnes, they are truly awe-inspiring creatures.
Tour prices are regulated at approximately $145 USD per person, which includes a memorable day of swimming with the whale sharks, along with breakfast, lunch, soft drinks, and snorkel equipment. Most tours end the day with a stop at Playa Norte where you can swim and relax.
This is a full-day trip and you will be spending a lot of time getting to and from the site where the whale sharks have gathered. If you are prone to seasickness, be prepared with Dramamine or whatever works for you. When we swim with the whale sharks, I make everyone is our group take it, just in case.
While swimming with these magnificent creatures is an exhilarating adventure, it’s essential to respect the rules and guidelines set by official regulating bodies. To ensure a responsible and eco-conscious experience, it’s crucial to choose a reputable tour company that upholds these regulations and prioritizes the well-being and preservation of these beautiful marine creatures.
Some of the reputable tour companies offering this experience can be found here.
SCUBA Dive the Mesoamerican Reef
Isla Mujeres offers some of the Caribbean’s finest scuba diving experiences. Immerse yourself in a world of wonders, exploring captivating caves and encountering a diverse array of sea life, including eels, groupers, snappers, turtles, parrotfish, and vibrant corals.
If you’re a beginner, Isla Mujeres provides the perfect, gentle setting for introductory dives. Certified diving instructors will guide you through shallow waters, ensuring you witness the mesmerizing beauty of coral reefs up close.
For advanced divers seeking a unique adventure, the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks presents an extraordinary sight—reef, bull, and nurse sharks sleeping on the ocean floor at a depth of 20-30 meters.
Other popular dive sites include the impressive Machones Reef stretching 800 meters, Tavos Reef, Media Luna, Punta Sur, and the intriguing Navy Boat Shipwreck, sunk at a depth of 21 meters.
Find Your Perfect Private Beach Club
There are quite a few beach clubs on Isla Mujeres. For years, our very favorite was Zama. Unfortunately, the land was sold for development and Zama was forced to relocate. The new location at the edge of Playa del Sol and Playa Norte puts them much more in the thick of the downtown action.
Fortunately, on our last visit, we found the food, drinks and service to be as good as we remembered. There is a large shaded area with plenty of places to relax and dine. There are loungers and umbrellas on the beach at a charge. We enjoyed the shade and comfy sofas by the bar and the pools. Shout out to Juan for pulling us in off the street or we might have missed it!
Between Playa Centro and Playa Norte there are about a dozen different beach clubs to choose from all sharing the same white sand and turquoise blue waters. Take a stroll along the sand and find the one that suits your vibe and your budget.
Snorkeling in Isla Mujeres
If you’re looking for a great place to relax, snorkel and have a cold drink, your best options are going to be up around Punta Norte and all along the west coast of the island. The eastern side is too rocky and rough to be safe for swimming or snorkeling but along the coast that faces Cancun, you will find some nice beach clubs with easy entry for snorkeling, clear water with good visibility and some nice coral formations where colorful tropical fish will be waiting for you.
We like to head over to Garaffon de Castilla on Punta Sur. For 150 pesos (at the time of writing), you have access to lounge chairs, changing rooms and showers. They also have life jackets and snorkel gear to offer. This is what I would consider a real old-school beach club but the beers are cold and cheap and the snorkeling is great!
Another great option is to take a snorkeling tour. There are tours that will bring you to MUSA, the underwater museum and other prime spots for seeing a variety of marine life. In just a few hours a tour will give you the best chance to see the best of what Isla has to offer under the sea!
At the right time of year, the guides will know where to find the sea turtles that return to Isla Mujeres every year to nest and lay their eggs. The opportunity to snorkel with marine turtles is one you should not pass up!
Volunteer with Isla Animals
*** Unfortunately, Isla Animals was forced to close their facility on Isla Mujeres. They are currently looking for a more stable and permanent solution on the mainland. Read this article for more detailed information. https://www.islaanimals.org/why-isla-animals-is-moving-out-of-isla-mujeres/
Volunteering with Isla Animals is not only an unforgettable experience but also one of the most rewarding and meaningful ways to spend your time on Isla Mujeres.
If you have a soft spot for dogs, a visit to Isla Animals is a must during your day trip to Isla Mujeres.
This sanctuary welcomes volunteers to assist with various tasks, such as walking the dogs, socialization time, bathing, grooming, and if you have the time, supporting their spay/neutering clinics.
Explore the Municipal Market
While not as impressive as some of the markets we have visited in Mexico City, Oaxaca or Merida, the small public market on Isla Mujeres will give you a nice peek into daily life on the island for the people who live and work there. It´s always interesting to see what is offered at the market as these are the items that people actually need in their day-to-day lives.
You might be able to pick up some unique spices to bring home. There are some delicious and very inexpensive food options as well. It´s well worth taking half an hour out of your day to check out the Mercado Municipal.
Visit the Women´s Beading Co-op
If you are planning to do any souvenir shopping you are going to start to see the same stuff in all of the shops that line Hidalgo and the main road where the ferry dock is. Unfortunately, a lot of it is cheap stuff mass-produced in China and not in any way “locally made” or authentic.
If you want to make a purchase that is 100% Isla Mujeres made, take a trip mid-Island to the Women´s Beading Cooperative. The women at the co-op have been making beautiful handmade beaded jewelry and accessories for years. One of their biggest claims to fame is having one of their unique creations worn by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg (RIP). There is a ñpicture of her proudly displayed in the shop wearing the signature beaded collar they created just for her.
If you are looking for unique gifts that will help to support the island, this is the place to go. Plus, the prices are just incredible for the work they are doing.
Check Out Isla´s Best Restaurants
There are so many great places to eat on Isla Mujeres, it would be impossible to try them all in a month let alone a day.
If you are just planning to stay in downtown Isla, explore the town and spend time on the beach, there are loads of great places to check out in centro that will not require a golf cart or cab ride.
For breakfast, in downtown Isla Mujeres we can recommend Cafe Mogagua and Oh, My Brunch for breakfast, IXI Beach and Los Tacos de Humo for lunch and Olivia, Lola Valentina and Fish and Gin for dinner. If you want to have dinner on the beach and watch the sunset, head over to Muelle 7, Mayan Beach Club or any of the restaurants that line the beach before you get to the ferry dock.
If you have rented a golf cart for the day, you will have an even harder time choosing where to go as there are even more great restaurants to try mid-island or on the western shore. Mango Cafe is a must for breakfast. Mar-bella Rawbar & Grill is a great spot close to the southern tip of the island and the best place for fresh seafood. The Soggy Peso is a lot of fun for food and drinks!
Sunset Cruise on a Catamaran
Renting a catamaran to watch the sunset on Isla Mujeres is a truly unforgettable experience that combines luxury, adventure, and natural beauty. As the sun begins its descent, the catamaran sets sail, gliding smoothly over the turquoise blue water of the Caribbean Sea.
As the catamaran cruises along the coast of Isla Mujeres, the sky becomes a canvas of warm hues, with the setting sun casting a golden glow over the horizon. The changing colors create a mesmerizing spectacle, and the tranquility of the sea amplifies the sense of wonder and awe.
Whether you’re with your family, friends, or a special someone, a sunset catamaran cruise is perfect for creating cherished memories and moments of reflection.
Catch the Sunset from Playa del Sol
If you have the time and do not have to take an early ferry back to Cancun, do not miss the sunset from Playa del Sol.
The sight of the sun dipping below the horizon is nothing short of magical. The sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, ranging from fiery oranges and pinks to soft purples and blues. It’s as if the heavens themselves are putting on a show, illuminating the island with an ethereal glow.
There are a number of nice beachside restaurants along Playa del Sol and Playa Norte where you can have a romantic dinner before catching a ferry back to the mainland. This is the perfect place and the perfect way to wrap up a day trip on Isla Mujeres.
Other Cool Ways to Make a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
Visit Isla Mujeres on a Private Yacht
A day trip to Isla Mujeres on a private yacht is definitely one of the ultimate luxury experiences in Mexico. If you ask my kids…it´s the ONLY way to go! If you don’t like crowds but you love boating and you are willing to splurge, this is the option for you.
Traveling to Isla Mujeres on a private yacht offers an unparalleled and luxurious experience, making it an enticing option for those seeking exclusivity and comfort. One of the significant advantages is the freedom to customize your itinerary, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace and visit secluded spots inaccessible to larger tourist groups.
With privacy and flexibility as the top priorities, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the Caribbean without the crowds. A private yacht can provide personalized service, ensuring all your needs are catered to by a dedicated crew. Being on a private boat, you can decide on the itinerary with the captain and create a bespoke traveling experience for you and your group.
While traveling to Isla Mujeres on a private yacht may be VERY appealing, it’s important to consider the drawbacks. Of course, the cost is a significant factor, as private yacht charters can be expensive. Additionally, unexpected weather conditions may impact the journey, affecting the planned activities.
Despite these potential cons, the sheer indulgence of traveling on a private yacht, the sense of exclusivity, and the freedom to design your adventure make it an alluring and unforgettable way to experience the captivating beauty of Isla Mujeres.
Book a Tour to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy
Embark on a captivating tour to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy, an unspoiled natural paradise located 30 km north of Isla Mujeres. Isla Contoy, declared a National Park in 1998, stretches 9 km long and 20 meters wide, serving as a crucial wildlife reserve and bird sanctuary.
With only 200 visitors allowed daily, this beautiful island is a protected sanctuary for nesting sea birds and endangered sea turtles. Guided tours usually depart from Cancun, but transportation can also be arranged from Tulum and Playa del Carmen. With group tours starting at about $75 USD per person, you can experience the best of both worlds on a combined tour of Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy.
While previously accessible only to biologists and with restricted entry, the island is now open to organized tours, providing a chance to witness its stunning array of over 150 tropical bird species and four endangered sea turtle varieties. Though mindful of its fragile ecosystem, visitors can now explore this preserved gem and bask in its natural wonders.
***Keep in mind the amount of time you will be spending on the boat. If you are prone to seasickness, this may not be the tour for you.
Things NOT to Forget for Your Day Trip on Isla Mujeres
Good advance planning will make for the best day trip to the island. Here are some things you will not want to leave behind!
Bathing Suit – Whether you are planning to be in the water, on a boat or in the sand, you will want to bring your swimsuit.
Sunscreen – The sun on Isla Mujeres is HOT! Protect yourself and preserve the marine life by using reef-safe sunscreen!
Insect Repellent – At certain times of the year and at certain times of the day, the mosquitos on Isla Mujeres can be really annoying. Be sure to bring along reef-safe bug repellent to keep them at bay. This is particularly important if you are planning a trip over to Isla Contoy.
Sunglasses – As I mentioned, the sun is hot. It is also bright. Give your eyes the protection they deserve and wear good polarized sunglasses.
Wide-Brimmed Hat – Protect your face and your eyes from the glaring sun with a nice wide-brimmed hat. If you don´t want to bring one, there are loads of shops selling hats on the island. Pick the one you like and don´t be afraid to haggle a little bit to get the best price! Most of the shops are selling the same things so you have the choice to move on to the next shop on the strip.
Driver’s License – If you want to rent a golf cart, you will absolutely need a valid driver’s license!
Camera – With so many amazing vistas on the island, don´t forget to bring your camera (or cel phone) to make every moment into a memory that will last forever!
Battery Charger – If you are leaving in the early morning and not planning to return until nightfall, the battery in your phone is not going to last. Especially with all that picture-taking! Be sure to bring a fully charged power bank and cord to recharge during the day!
Waterproof Phone Cover – Most people are carrying their phones as cameras these days. If this is you, be sure to invest in a good waterproof cover. Not only will it keep the moisture out but it will also protect your phone from the sand. It´s a small price to pay to save your phone.
Pesos – Some of the shops and restaurants on the island will accept credit or debit cards but many are cash only. You will get the best rate if you bring pesos so be sure to bring enough along. There are safe bank-attached ATMs in downtown if you do run out.
Quick Dry Towel – We bring ours even if we are staying in a hotel that provides towels. These microfiber towels are so compact and easy dry. Plus the sand shakes right off of them.
Snorkel Gear – If you plan to spend a lot of time in the water (and especially if you are planning to SCUBA dive or swim with the whale sharks, invest in a well-fitting mask and snorkel set of your very own. It´s so much nicer than using the set used over and over again by the tour groups.
A Day Trip to Isla Mujeres: What is the Best Way for You?
So what did you decide? Are you going to take an all-inclusive catamaran excursion? Rent a private boat? Or while you go it on your own and take the ferry over for a day of fun and exploration on your own?
Now that you have settled on HOW you are going to spend your day on the island, let’s take a closer look at all the things to do, all the great places to eat and make sure that your day trip to Isla Mujeres is the very best it can be!