Top 15 Isla Mujeres Beach Clubs

By Michele Samal Kinnon

Whether you are going to Isla Mujeres for a few weeks, a few days or just a few hours you won´t want to miss checking out the island’s spectacular beaches. Playa Norte (North Beach) was been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and with good reason. Its sugar-white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters are the things dreams are made of! One of the best ways to get the most from your day on the island is to relax at one of Isla´s great beach clubs.

Which is the Best Isla Mujeres Beach Club for you?

Everyone has their own idea of “the perfect beach club”. Some love the casual laid-back atmosphere of an old-school swing bar on the beach where you can while away the hours drinking ice-cold cervezas and chatting up the locals. Others are looking for a more luxurious beach club experience with private Balinese beds, DJ dance parties and champagne flowing! 

Are you a solo traveler looking to make friends and party a little bit? Maybe you are coming to Isla Mujeres as a family and are looking for a beach club that will be fun for the kids. If you are coming on a romantic getaway or celebrating a special occasion with the one you love, finding the right place is an important part of your travel planning! The good news is, Isla Mujeres has beach clubs that offer something for every visitor. 

Food from canabar beach club on isla mujeres

This list is organized by location so you can easily know which beach clubs are closest to your hotel, resort or vacation rental. Most of Isla Mujeres’ beach clubs can be found on the north end of the island on Playa Cocal and Playa Norte. But a few of the most popular beach clubs are further south in the Sac Bajo area and moving south toward Punta Sur. Fortunately, Isla Mujeres is a tiny island and no matter where you are staying, the beach club of your choice is an easy golf cart or taxi ride away. 

This list of Isla Mujeres Beach clubs is by no means comprehensive. There are many others that either did not make the cut or we have featured in another article. If you are traveling with children, you will want to read The Best Isla Mujeres Beach Clubs for Kids. This list was compiled, with the help of my now-adult children, with the mature traveler in mind. Some of these spots are perfect for me and Jim. Others, cater more to my kids and their friends. There are a few that we all love.

So, without further ado … starting from the northern tip of the island and moving south, here are the Isla Mujeres beach clubs we recommend.

Gurú Beach Club

Located at the Lotus Beach Hotel at the tip of Playa Norte (North Beach), Guru Beach Club is a chic and relaxed space offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We happened upon Guru Beach Club on our last trip to the island and what a find! One of the highlights of Guru Beach Club is its pool area, which is perched up over the beach with views out over the water. Here you can grab a refreshing cocktail from their elegant pool bar and lounge, taking in the mesmerizing views.

The pool, bar and ocean view at the adult only guru beach club, isla mujeres

There are a variety of seating options in the enclosed pool area and on the beach in front. During the day, Guru Beach Club offers ample space to soak up the Mexican sun. Relax on the comfortable and spacious beds that are scattered around the beautifully decorated location. The atmosphere is complemented by the boho vibes and the carefully curated playlist, creating an ambiance that is both relaxing and stylish. 

If you spend a day at Guru Beach Club, be sure to stay until the evening and witness the sky transform into a palette of vibrant colors as the sun sets over the horizon. Lotus Beach Hotel and Guru Beach Club are adult-only, making it an ideal spot for couples or friends looking for an elegant and sophisticated experience.

Whether you’re seeking a day of relaxation, a romantic sunset, or a stylish evening out, Guru Beach Club is the place to be in Isla Mujeres. The beach club is open daily from 9 Am until 9 PM. Guru Beach Club can be found at the very end of ZazilHa, just in front of the bridge to Mia Reef Resort. For reservations call or text  +52 998 138 1471.

Green Demon Beach Club

Soak up the sun on Isla Mujeres’ famous Playa Norte at this cool beach club, Green Demon.  If you’re in Isla Mujeres, the Green Demon Beach Club is a must-visit. Consistently at the top of every Isla Mujeres “Best Beach Clubs,” this is a popular hangout on Isla’s stunning Playa Norte, which has been named one of the best beaches in the world, with its white sands and turquoise blue waters. With a serene, private area of soft white sand, loungers & hammocks, it’s the perfect place to relax under a palm tree, catch some rays on the beach or swim in the crystal-clear water of North Beach.

Green demon beach club

Green Demon Beach Club is popular amongst visitors and locals alike, with its chilled vibes, comfortable beach beds, swings, DJ sets, and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy their delicious cocktails, choose from the yummy and healthy food options on their menu and a wide range of great drinks. 

Green demon fresh cocktails

Don’t miss out on the special events and live performances presented at Green Demon Beach Club. Stop by on a Sunday for live music and lots of dancing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season. There’s a minimum consumption level of $500 MXN to use the facilities. Green Demon is open daily from 10 AM until 6:30 PM. For reservations and up-to-date information, contact them through the beach club´s Facebook page.

Oceanvs Beach Club

Dreaming of relaxing on a cabana all day while taking in tropical Caribbean views? Look no further than Oceanus one of the newer beach clubs on Isla Mujeres. Located on the picturesque property of Hotel Na Balam, this small elegant club offers top-quality food and an impressive list of exotic cocktails.

The restaurant features both European and Mexican cuisine, and the chef and his team are happy to cater to specific dietary preferences. Enjoy the comfortable cabanas while sipping your favorite drink and immersing yourself in the lush tropical surroundings of this magical place. Hotel Na Balam and the beach club offer a family-friendly atmosphere and children are welcome. 

Oceanus beach club isla mujeres

Reservations for Oceanvs Beach Club are strongly recommended for anyone who is not a guest of the hotel. Reservations will be held until noon. At 12:00 PM, any remaining reservations are released and it´s “first come, first served”. Beach bed rental is $500 MXN (for up to 4 people) plus a minimum consumption per person of $500 MXN in food and drinks.

Towels are available for $50 MXN each. Reservations for the beach club do not include pool access which is reserved for hotel guests only. The Oceanus Beach Club is open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Dinner is served from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Amex, Visa & Mastercard are welcome. For more info, visit the Oceanvs Beach Club website.▫️

Canabar Beach Club

Nestled amidst the palm trees at the north end of Isla Mujeres, you will find Cañabar Beach Club. Cañabar has a nice boho-style swing bar where you can grab a bite to eat or sip on Canabar´s signature cocktails under their palapa. The beach club has a spacious pool area with a raised deck and two pools offering great views out over the beach to the water.

The pool deck has plenty of comfortable beds to chill out on or you can head down to the beach where there are plenty of sun beds and umbrellas for shade. The beachfront pools are the perfect place to cool off and enjoy entertainment from their DJ and live bands. 

An aerial view of canabar beach club isla mujeres

Catering mainly to a younger, party crowd, Canabar even hosts fun day parties and special events like foam parties. As you can imagine, my kids and their friends, really like this place. Canabar Beach Club is located on Playa Norte and is open daily from 11:00 AM until 7:00 PM. For more information, you can message them through their Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Las Hamacas

Looking for the perfect spot to spend an idyllic beach day in Isla Mujeres? Look no further than Las Hamacas. This charming beach club offers everything you need for a fantastic day in Mexico’s Caribbean sunshine. Located on Isla Mujeres’ world-famous beach, Playa Norte, Las Hamacas provides an intimate setting for you to relax and unwind.

They have their own semi-private beach area, complete with hammocks, swings, comfortable loungers, and even a dipping pool for those looking to cool off.  If you’re in the mood for a beach workout, Las Hamacas has a unique attraction – their “Flintstone” style gym with oversized wooden barbells to lift!  

The beach club offers a fun and colorful atmosphere, making it the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach. They often have live music and DJs playing, adding to the lively ambiance. Make sure to stay for the stunning sunset at Las Hamacas. As the sun goes down, the beach club transforms with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. You can relax and enjoy an early dinner or savor one last drink as you take in the breathtaking view.

Las Hamacas Playa Norte is located on the beach at the end of Av. Guerrero in the Centro area of Isla Mujeres. They are open from Monday to Sunday, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. If you have any questions or would like to make a reservation, you can reach them at +52 998 404 0936. 

Tarzan Beach Bar & Grill

Tarzan Beach Club is known as a laid-back spot offering a more old-school Isla Mujeres beach club experience. The atmosphere is a lot more casual than some of the newer clubs on the island. Located on the scenic shores of Isla Mujeres Playa Norte, Tarzan Beach provides a tranquil setting for those looking to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean´s natural beauty.

Unlike some of the more commercialized beach clubs, Tarzan tends to offer a more rustic and authentic experience. With its beachfront bar and grill, guests can savor a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to classic Mexican fare.  

Beach seating at tarzan beach isla mujeres

The club is known for its friendly staff, who are often praised for their attentive and warm service. The ambiance at Tarzan is relaxed and casual, making it a favorite for those who want to spend a day lounging by the sea, sipping on cocktails, and perhaps taking in the sunset. The beach club sometimes has live music from local musicians, adding to the overall island vibe. Tarzan Beach Club is a good choice for those seeking a more genuine Isla Mujeres experience, away from the new “tulumesque”  offerings. 

While Tarzan´s may be smaller in size, it is definitely worth a visit. Make sure to stay for sunset, as you’ll have a front-row seat to witness the stunning colors painting the sky. Tarzan is located on North Beach at the end of Vicente Guerrero and is open every day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. For more information call +52 998 148 4142.

Palapa Leidy

Palapa Leidy is a fantastic beachfront restaurant located on the stunning Playa Norte beach in Isla Mujeres, Mexico. With its pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this beach is renowned for its beauty. At Palapa Leidy, you can fully immerse yourself in this picturesque setting and enjoy a day of relaxation and delicious food. Whether you prefer to bask in the sun on a lounger or sit at a table under their spacious palapa or on the beach, Palapa Leidy offers the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in a delightful meal. 

Ceviche at palapa leidy isla mujeres

The menu at this restaurant showcases a range of delectable Mexican dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. They serve mouthwatering quesadillas and tacos, fajitas and burritos, ceviche and coctels and more!  From their flavorful grilled arrachera to whole-grilled fresh fish, there is something for everyone. Palapa Leidy is also known for its impressive selection of refreshing cocktails. 

If you’re looking to savor the flavors of Isla Mujeres while soaking up the sun on one of its most beautiful beaches, be sure to visit Palapa Leidy. To reach Palapa Leidy, simply walk north along Avenida Hidalgo until you reach the end. It is conveniently located next to the Ixchel Hotel.  The beach club fee is 400 pesos which includes the use of two loungers and an umbrella. The cost of food and beverages is additional. The restaurant and bar are open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Tuturreque by Playa Arena

Tuturreque by Playa Arena is a Playa Norte beach club located at the northern end of Avenida Hidalgo, the main pedestrian street in Isla Mujeres. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy Playa Norte, one of the island’s beautiful beaches. You can unwind on their loungers, take a dip in the clear waters, and savor a refreshing drink or a tasty lunch. The beach club offers excellent service, delicious food, and a variety of drinks. They also have clean showers and facilities for your convenience. 

Tuturreque by playa arena isla mujeres

The use of sun loungers and umbrellas is included with the purchase of food and drinks. Be sure to check with your server for the minimum consumption requirement. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the crystal clear waters of Playa Norte from this lovely beach club.

Tuturreque by Playa Arena is open every day from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. You can find Tuturreque on the beach in front of Hotel Playa Arena at the end of Avenida Miguel Hidalgo. For more information, you can contact them at +52 998 877 0355. 

Mayan Beach Club Restaurant & Tequileria

Mayan Beach Club is a unique beach club located in a lovely palm tree-dotted location on Playa Norte. Unlike many other beach clubs, Mayan Beach Club is open from early in the morning until late at night, offering a variety of experiences throughout the day. In the morning, you can start your day by enjoying a delicious breakfast at the club.

Afterward, you can head to the beach and relax on the pristine sands of Playa Norte, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun. When it’s time for lunch, Mayan Beach Club has an enticing lunch menu featuring a range of mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re craving seafood, Mexican cuisine, or international flavors, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds. 

Mayan beach club isla mujeres

At night, Mayan Beach Club transforms into a romantic and idyllic dinner spot. Picture yourself dining under the stars, with your toes buried in the soft sand and the sound of the water lapping the shore. The ambiance is enhanced by candlelight and often accompanied by live music, creating a truly dreamy atmosphere. What sets Mayan Beach Club apart is the exceptional service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that you have a great experience. 

Mayan Beach Club is a must-visit destination on Isla Mujeres. Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast, a relaxing day at the beach, or a romantic dinner experience, this beach club offers it all. Mayan Beach Club is located on the beach at the end of Av Rueda Medina and is open seven days a week, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. If you have any questions or would like to make a reservation, you can reach them at +52 998 877 0523.

Zama Beach Club

For a luxury beach club experience in Isla Mujeres, Zama Beach Club is a must-visit. Zama built a lofty reputation as one of the best Isla Mujeres beach clubs in its location in Sac Bajo. That property was sold in 2023 and Zama was reincarnated in a privileged location on the northernmost point of Playa Centro.

The space and facilities are just as nice as you would expect from the valet parking to the comfortable lounging areas. Gone are the infinity pools my kids used to love but there are two in this new location, one pool is in the lounge areas under cover and one is beachside in the sun. One of the big attractions to Zama has always been the top-notch food and creative cocktails. 

Beach beds and umberellas taken from the ocean at zama beach club isla mujeres

They have carried over the same attention to quality and creativity that we have come to expect. The staff is friendly and attentive, there is plenty of seating either in the restaurant or on the beach. The atmosphere is sophisticated but still laid back. At this spot, the beach is wide and the water is crystal clear. Zama is the perfect choice if you want spectacular views of the sunset! 

The new Zama Beach Club has a prime location but is a little hard to find from the street but well worth looking for. It´s a great place to bring your family or friends where you can treat yourself while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. You can sit at the tables or the lounge areas in the restaurant and use the pools with no fee.

There is an additional charge to use the loungers, beds and umbrellas on the beach. Zama Beach Club is open daily from 10 AM until 9:30 PM. For more information call or text +52 998 877 0739.

Coco Restaurant & Beach Bar 

Indulge in the lively atmosphere of Coco Restaurant & Beach Bar, where you can savor the taste of Isla Mujeres while enjoying live salsa music. This beachfront establishment, located near the northern end of Playa Centro, offers a memorable experience from breakfast to dinner.

With its inviting ambiance and stunning views of the Caribbean, Coco Restaurant & Beach Bar is the perfect place to spend a whole day on Isla Mujeres. On weekends, you can groove to the rhythm of live salsa music while relaxing on their upstairs terrace. 

Coco beach bar isla mujeres from the street

The menu features a delightful fusion of fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine, and Cuban flavors. Imagine dining under twinkling lights on the beach, with the sound of crashing waves in the background – a truly magical experience.  Whether you’re looking for a leisurely breakfast, a quick lunch, or a romantic dinner, Coco Restaurant & Beach Bar has got you covered.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the weekend salsa music sessions on the beach. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the rhythm of the Caribbean. Coco Restaurant & Beach Bar is located on Av Rueda Medina, on the beach across the street from JAX. They are open from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM every day. For more information or reservations, call +52 998 274 2544.

Taboo Beach Club

If you are looking for a world-class beach club experience with an exclusive atmosphere, you will want to take a look at Taboo. With locations in Cancun, Tulum, Los Cabos, and Mexico City, with the famous Rosa Negra group inaugurated Taboo Restaurant & Beach Club on Isla Mujeres in January 2023.

Taboo Beach Club is one of the more upscale and contemporary beach clubs on the island, catering to both the younger party crowd as well as visitors looking for a more luxurious beach club experience. Located in the Sac Bajo area of Isla, Taboo is perched on the shore with a spectacular view across the bay to the glittering hotel zone of Cancun. The restaurant is gorgeous and the beach club boasts plush sunbeds and cabanas, providing the ultimate comfort for guests wishing to bask in the sun or take a relaxing nap. 

Looking through taboo beach club towards the ocean

As evening approaches, Taboo transforms into a lively hub, with international DJs spinning tracks that resonate with the energy of the Caribbean. Foodies are in for a treat, as the restaurant offers an array of gourmet dishes, fusing local ingredients with international flavors. Complementing the food menu is an extensive list of cocktails, wines, and spirits. Signature cocktails, often inspired by local flavors, are a favorite among visitors. Guest services and amenities are top-notch, reflecting Taboo’s commitment to providing an unparalleled beach club experience. 

Looking through taboo beach club towards the ocean

As you would expect, Taboo is one of the more expensive options on the island. If you don´t want to spring for the whole beach club experience, you should at least try out their restaurant. Taboo is open from 11 AM until 10 PM, Wednesday through Sunday. Reservations are strongly recommended.

ZaZa Yacht & Beach Club

Looking for a laid-back and enjoyable day on Isla Mujeres, where you can relax on a sun lounger with refreshing cocktails? How about taking a dip in a pool or indulging in delicious food while admiring the island’s breathtaking sunsets? Look no further than ZaZa Yacht & Beach Club. ZaZa was inaugurated in April 2023 in the former location of Capitán Dulché. The new club features many of the amenities of the old Capitan Dulche with a cooler vibe.

Gone is the signature pirate ship which has been replaced by additional seating under the big palapa part of the transformation to appeal to a hipper crowd. Like its predecessor, ZaZa is a family-friendly beach club offers everything you need for a fantastic day in the Mexican sunshine.

Relaxing by the pool at zaza beach club isla mujeres

One of the highlights of Zaza Beach Club is its large saltwater pool, segmented into varying depths and complete with a swim-up bar and comfortable stools. You can take a refreshing swim or simply relax on one of their sun loungers or Balinese bed on the beach. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, opt for one of their chic cabana-style beds by the pool and enjoy music from the club´s DJ or live music from local performers.

You can hang out at the swing bar or dine and at one of their tables under the shade of a palapa, savoring the flavors of their delicious menu. From refreshing cocktails to mouthwatering dishes, their offerings cater to all tastes. Zaza Yacht & Beach Club also has a private dock from which you can swim and snorkel and use the kayaks.

ZaZa Beach Club offers two options for using their facilities.

General Day Pass 

A minimum consumption of $20 (300 pesos) is required. This Day Pass gives you access to the beach club, pool, bar, and restaurant area. Does not include the use of lounge chairs or sun beds.

All-Inclusive Day Pass

The cost is $60 USD and includes drinks and food from the buffet. The All-Inclusive Day Pass gives you access to the beach club, pool, bar, and restaurant area.

PLUS the use of a lounge bed either on the beach or next to the pool. 

ZaZa Yacht & Beach Club is located in the south end, off of Carretera Garrafon at kilometer marker 4.5. The restaurant serves food from 12:00 PM until  3:30 PM. The bar is open from 11:00 AM til 4:30 PM. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on holidays and weekends as Day Passes are limited. Call or text +52 998 763 2353 for more information and reservations.

Amazona Beach Bar & Restaurant by MarBella

Are you looking to soak up Mexico’s Caribbean sun in style during your visit to Isla Mujeres? Why not check out Amazona Beach Club for an incredible price and a wonderful day out with your family or friends? Located between Playa Lancheros and Marbella, this new beach club is the perfect place to enjoy an all-inclusive, luxurious day on the beach. Amazona by MarBella is more than just a beach club, it is an experience that caters to everyone.

Enjoy one of Mexico´s best Blue Flag beaches on one of their deluxe beds in the sunshine while you indulge in unlimited food and drinks. The all-inclusive package includes two different types of buffet, with a variety of dishes from Mexican to international cuisine.

Amazona beach club isla mujeres

 If you are familiar with MarBella you already know they have some of the best restaurants for seafood so you know the food is going to be great. Drinks include cocktails, beers, shots, soft drinks, and water. Relax on the beach with chill, laid-back music from the DJ.

Soak up the wonderful atmosphere, and refresh yourself in the shallow and clear waters of Isla Mujeres Bay. Your Day Pass also gives you access to kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, hammocks, and swings in the water during your visit. Your first experience at Amazona Beach will have you returning again and again. 

A Day Pass at Amazona is currently just $40 USD per person. This incredible rate includes food and drinks all day, as well as the use of all the facilities. Amazona Beach Bar is open daily from 11 AM until 6 PM. For reservations, call or text +52 998 577 8318.

Botánico Beach Club

Nomads Experience is a unique establishment on Isla Mujeres that combines a hotel, hostel, and beach club all in one. As soon as you descend the stairs into Nomads’ beach club, Botanico, you are immediately immersed in a vibrant beach atmosphere. The space features a bar, a refreshing swimming pool, a spacious beach area and a long dock.

The ambiance at Botanico Beach Club is chic and reminiscent of the trendy vibes found in Tulum. You can relax and unwind in one of the comfortable hammocks with a cool drink in hand, or stretch out on the cushions and lounge beds scattered across the beach. Plus, you’ll have access to free WiFi, so you can stay connected while enjoying the laid-back island life. 

Botanico beach club isla mujeres

For those who enjoy water activities, you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters from the large dock or try your hand at paddleboarding. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and with your toes in the sand, Botanico offers the perfect setting to experience the true essence of island living. Make sure to stay until sunset, as Botanico boasts a breathtaking view from the dock that will leave you in awe. In addition to providing a fantastic beach experience,

There are plenty of entertainment options available. Botanico hosts regular dance parties with top-notch DJs that will keep you grooving into the early hours of the morning. If you’re a fan of live music, you’re in luck! Every week, you can enjoy live Salsa, Reggae, or DJ performances that will get your feet moving. 

Botanico offers two options for using the beach club.

Basic Day Pass: This includes the use of amenities (restrictions apply) and costs $1,300 MXN, which can be redeemed in food and drinks.

Tipi Bed Day Pass: This option is ideal for couples or groups of up to 5 people. It includes one of the comfortable tipi loungers, a table, and access to all amenities. The cost is $5,000 MXN, which can be redeemed in food and drinks. The best part is that with either of the Day Pass options, you can stay to enjoy the evening events. 

Botanico at Nomads Hotel is tucked away on the south end of the island, just past Marbella on Carretera Garrafon. The beach club is open from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM, ensuring you have ample time to enjoy everything this incredible beach club has to offer. Contact Botanico at +52 998 108 0495 for more information or to make a reservation.

Things to Keep in Minds at Isla Mujeres Beach Clubs

If you are coming all the way to Isla Mujeres to enjoy one of the island´s fantastic beach clubs, you want to have the best experience possible. It´s really unfortunate but in any tourist-driven location, there are going to be people looking to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. I would be remiss to not point out some of the issues that guests may encounter on the island. Here are some things to keep in mind before you go to any of the Isla Mujeres beach clubs to make sure there are no unpleasant surprises.

Do Your Research:

Beyond reading this article, check online reviews from platforms like TripAdvisor, Yelp, or Google Reviews. Past visitors will share their experiences, both positive and negative, which can give you a sense of what to expect and any potential issues to be aware of. Look for the most recent reviews you can find. Establishments evolve over time. A beach club that once got rave reviews could start to slip. A change in management or pricing scheme can happen at any time so it’s a good idea to check recent reviews.

Clear Pricing:

Always ask for a menu or price list up front. Some beach clubs might charge exorbitant prices for basic amenities or services, especially if they think you’re unaware. Whether it’s for a sunbed, an umbrella, food, or drinks, make sure you confirm the cost beforehand. If possible, contact the beach club in advance via their social media accounts or an official website if they have one to see the most up-to-date menu and prices.

Keep an Eye on Your Bill:

Sometimes, mistakes happen. Other times, extra items might be intentionally added to your tab. Always check your bill thoroughly before paying. Ensure you’re being charged the correct amount for what you ordered, and there aren’t any unexpected fees or charges. Adding the tip to a bill is a common issue. As a consumer, you should know that this is illegal but it still happens a lot. Be sure to check your bill to be sure the tip has not already been added before leaving any additional gratuity.

Special Deals or Promotions:

Waiters at beach clubs may offer “special” unposted deals that might not be as advantageous as they seem. For instance, a promotion might seem like a discount but could come with hidden terms and conditions, like a minimum spend requirement or restricted access to certain amenities. Always read the fine print and ask for any terms to be explained.

Bait and Switch:

This tactic involves advertising a service or product at a lower price to attract customers and then persuading them to upgrade to a more expensive option. For instance, you might be shown a comfortable lounger when you arrive, but when the bill comes, you’re charged for a premium option you didn’t know you were using. Don´t be afraid to confirm the cost of any amenities you are planning to use.

Unofficial Vendors:

At many popular beach destinations like Isla Mujeres, local vendors roam the sands offering various goods and services. While many are legitimate, others might be selling subpar products at inflated prices or offering tours and services that they aren’t licensed to provide. Stick to buying from the official beach club facilities or well-known, reputable vendors.

Watch your Belongings:

If you are enjoying a day at one of Isla Mujeres’ amazing beach clubs, you do need to keep an eye on your things. The servers are busy and cannot be expected to watch everyone´s valuables. If you are going to go for a stroll on the beach or head out for a swim, you will need to secure your belongings. If the beach club has lockers, this is a great option. However, most places do not offer this service. If you are going for a beach walk, either take your valuables with you or leave one of your party behind. The best option is to bring as little with you as possible. 

Chances are, you are going to have a great time on Isla Mujeres enjoying one or more of the great beach clubs on the island. But, arming yourself with information and remaining vigilant can significantly enhance the beach club experience and ensure a day of relaxation isn’t marred by unpleasant misunderstandings. 

Dining at zama beach club on isla mujeres

A Few Final Thoughts

For better or for worse, the climate on Isla Mujeres is changing. It´s harder and harder to find the kind of old-school beach bars we used to love. Long gone are the days of cheap eats and 25 peso cervezas on the beach. The quiet little island we once knew has really changed over the past two decades. The skyrocketing popularity of Tulum seems to have spilled over onto the island bringing a new kind of clientele. A different kind of tourist demands a different kind of beach club experience and a lot of our old favorite places are changing to accommodate that shift.  

Still, we have been able to find a few beach clubs that we really enjoy and will happily come back to when we visit the island. We would love to hear about your favorites. If there are any hidden gems we have missed, drop us a message in the comments.

Food from taboo restaurant

If you have any questions about this information, please feel free to contact us

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About the author

Michele Samal Kinnon

Despite the strong reservations of family and friends, in 2004 I moved from the United States to Mexico with my young family. Since then, I have made the Riviera Maya my home. I have raised two remarkable children here. I have celebrated amazing successes, made countless mistakes, and in the process, fallen in love with this beautiful country.

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