Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting & 10 Best Things to Do for First-timers!

Is Isla Mujeres worth visiting for your next Mexico trip, or is it just a quick day trip from Cancún? Many travellers hear about its beaches and turquoise water but aren’t sure if the island truly deserves a spot on their itinerary.

One of the biggest issue first-time visitors face is deciding whether Isla Mujeres offers enough to do beyond Playa Norte. With so much mixed advice online, it’s easy to wonder if staying overnight is worth it, how long you should go for, or if you’ll get bored after a few hours.

After Matt and I spent a week there, I’m not sure it’s will be the same for every traveller, and I would like to give you an idea of what to expect. Whether you’re visiting Mexico for the first time, or planning a relaxed island escape, you’ll discover the best things to do on Isla Mujeres and why, for many travellers, it’s absolutely worth visiting.

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Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting

Whether is for a day trip or a longer stay, we loved our visit to Isla Mujeres and think its worth visiting. While featuring the Musa Museum, Whale Shark Migration, lovely beaches, Laid-back Island lifestyle and friendly locals, I don’t think you could ask for more on your vacation.

It stands to reason that if you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet destination with tranquil beaches and stunning sunsets, this is the place for you. Unlike Cancun, which can be crowded, this island is a better option for those who want to escape and unwind. 

Not only that, but if you like to get out and explore more, then you’ll be surprised at how many unique things there are to do there.

➡  Book Isla Mujeres Accommodation HERE with Booking.com

Best Things to do in Isla Mujeres!

Isla Mujeres is located where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea meet! It’s just a short 13-kilometre journey off the Yucatán Peninsula coast near Cancun, in the State of Quintana Roo, Mexico. 

The Island stretches about 7 kilometres long and is only 650 meters wide. This is small enough for a relaxing getaway, but still large enough to need some sort of transport to get around the entire Island. 

I have a specially pinned map here to help find your way around, but please keep reading below for more details.

➡  Find Day Trips HERE with Viator, Or HERE with GYG.

1. Relax on the Playa Norte Beach

No trip to an Island paradise would be complete without the idyllic Beach, and Playa Norte is where you want to be.

We were lucky to stay within walking distance of this beach and spent some time relaxing in the sun and enjoying those warm turquoise waters. 

It’s known for being one of the best beaches on the Island, and it’s not hard to see why. Imagine it complete with white sand, swaying palm trees, and surrounded by bars and restaurants to captivate your cravings throughout the day. 

And, if you want to make a day of it? Hire some chairs and an umbrella and soak up the Caribbean sun.

2. Drive A Golf Cart for the day.

When I visited Isla Mujeres, I fell head over heels for the place. I think the island is full of opportunity and one of my absolute favourite things to do there was cruising around in a golf cart.

In fact, apart from a bicycle, it’s one of the best modes of transport to get around!

They are incredibly easy to drive, so it’s perfect for even the most timid drivers. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to explore as much of the island as possible, especially if you don’t have much time.

There’s a variety of rental services available near the ferry port or the central shopping district, so it’s simple to get your hands on a two-seater buggy for the day or the whole week.

The prices are also reasonable, so it’s an excellent option for those on a budget. For instance, they average from $15US per hour to $48US during the day.

And all you need is to be older than 18 and have a valid driver’s license. 

3. Swim with the Giant Whale Sharks.

Have ever dreamed of swimming with the giants of the sea. Whale sharks, as you might already know, are the largest fish in the world and are simply magnificent to see in their natural habitat. 

You’ll be amazed at just how huge they are, with some measuring up to 14 meters in length and weighing in at around 15 tons.

➡  Book Whale Sharks Tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

But don’t worry, as daunting as these gentle giants may seem, swimming with them is actually very safe and ethical when done responsibly.

This wildlife encounter was the whole reason we organised our trip, and it certainly did not disappoint. After three full-day tours into the open water, we were intoxicated and in complete awe of these impressive creatures.

4. Snorkel or Dive the Musa Underwater Museum

The underwater Musa Museum is a man-made art installation created for tourist entertainment, as well as to take pressure off the existing coral reef after cyclone damage.

It was created by Jason deCaires Taylor in 2010, and by promoting the growth of coral and marine life, the Musa Museum provides a sustainable and beautiful way to enjoy the underwater life.

➡  Search Musa Museum Tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG

The Great news is the underwater structures can be explored as divers, snorkelers, and through glass bottom boat excursions.

So, organizing a local tour guide to get you to Musa Museum is very easy and convenient for everyone. We managed two dives in the area and still didn’t see all of it, but totally amazed at what we did see.

5. Wander the streets for Shopping.

You might be on vacation, but there is always time for a spot of shopping, and you’ll love the colours and energy of the small island streets.

This is a haven for bargain hunters and souvenir collectors, with something for everyone’s taste. 

If you’re staying in the Playa Norte beach side, head to Miguel Hidalgo Avenue and the surrounding streets for all your shopping needs. Each vendor displays their wares with pride, enticing you to stop and explore the beautiful goods on offer. 

Shopping here is not a passive experience but an opportunity to barter with the locals (which is always fun) and find unique treasures to take home with you. 

I found myself captivated by the beautiful Mexican masks, intricate artwork on the blankets and towels, and of course, the array of magnets that could always find a special place on my fridge. 

6. Snorkel or Dive the Reef

If you’re not into diving, then there are other snorkelling tours in the Coral Reef off the Island. Either way, you’ll expand your knowledge of the underwater life and see some fantastic growth in the hard and soft corals.

➡  Find Dive or Snorkel tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG

I was blown away by the vibrant colours and size of the coral and all the marine life that calls it home. I found it was also an excellent opportunity to take some time and capture some gorgeous photos with the sun reflecting off the reef.

As well as being surprised by how many turtles you’ll see passing you by on their hunt for food. Coming from Australia and diving the Great Barrier Reef many times, I thought this reef was well-preserved and worth the extra day to see. 

7. Try the local Food

When it comes to travelling to new countries, one of my favourite things to do is trying out the local food. The Mexican cuisine is worth exploring, and there are plenty of dishes you shouldn’t miss out on. 

Apart from the tacos, burritos, and fajitas that come standard at most Mexican restaurants, I did fall in love with the Ceviche. This seafood dish is marinated in citrus juice and spiced up with chili peppers, onion, and cilantro. So delectable! 

If you’re a fan of spicy food, the enchiladas are a must-try. They are made with tortillas, filled with meat or beans, and topped with chili sauce.

And who can deny the deliciousness of a quesadilla (my personal favourite)? It’s a basic recipe that can be turned into an amazing snack or meal with different fillings. However, don’t forget your side of guacamole!

8. Visit Punta Sur

The southern tip of Isla Mujeres boasts one of the most superb views in the area at Punta Sur.

Whether you’re a history buff or just want to take in the stunning rocky scenery, Punta Sur is the perfect place to unwind. 

You can access everything you need for a nominal fee of only 100 pesos ($6USD) with the Mayan Ruins, lighthouse, and sculptures.

It’s also famous for the rocky “Cliffs of Dawn,” being the first place for the sun to hit every morning in Mexico. But, if you’re staying in the tourist part of the island, you’ll need some mode of transportation like a golf buggy, bicycle, or Taxi to get you there. 

9. Rent a bicycle and explore the Island.

Renting a Bicycle is one of the cheapest forms of transport to get around, along with getting in some exercise.

Depending on your hotel, some will loan you a bicycle for free, or otherwise, you can hire elsewhere for around 150 to 200 pesos per day($10USD).

One of the best parts of biking around is the ability to go at your own pace.

You won’t have to worry about a strict itinerary or getting left behind on a tour. Plus, with the island being pretty small, you could easily bike from Playa Norte to the south in less than an hour. 

10. Go Sunset Sailing

Treat yourself to a Catamaran Sunset Tour and indulge in a luxurious, romantic evening aboard a beautiful boat. You’ll sip on wine, beer, and refreshments as you cruise around the island, enjoying the stunning sights over the water and soaking up the warm, tropical air.

➡ Book Sunset Cruises HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

But that’s not all – you’ll also get to meet some new people and swap stories on your best traveling adventures. 

You’ll be out on the water for roughly 3 hours, and the start time will depend on the season.

Where to Stay?

When planning your trip, you’ll want to be in the heart of the action, Playa Norte is the place to be. Not only will you have access to some of the best restaurants and shops on the island, but you’ll also be just steps away from some of the most beautiful beaches. 

➡  Find Isla Mujeres Accommodation HERE with Booking.com

Playa Norte offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of Isla Mujeres, making it the perfect spot for those who want to experience all that this tropical paradise offers. 

Due to reduced budget, we chose to stay along Rueda Medina Av. It was straight across from the Playa Centro Beach and conveniently, only 5 minutes walk to Playa Norte Beach.

Apart from that, it was close enough for us to walk our luggage back and forth from the ferry terminal. 

Have you been saying Isla Mujeres wrong this whole time? I know I was for ages, but I know I wasn’t alone. Many people struggle with the pronunciation, so here it is:

The correct way to say it is “Izla Moo-Heh-rez.” 

So, next time you plan a trip to this beautiful island, confidently say its name correctly and show off your savvy linguistic abilities.

How to Get there & Around?

Isla Mujeres is just off the coast and a short 20 to 30 minute ferry ride from Cancun. To get there, hop in a taxi or take a public bus to Puerto Juárez and head over to the Ultramar ferry dock to purchase your round-trip ticket for about 300 pesos. 

➡  Book your Return Ferry Ride HERE with GYG

The Boats run every 30 minutes, so you can easily plan your schedule around your beach bumming and snorkelling adventures.

This might differ at busy times, but the best news was we didn’t have to book and just rocked up and got on the next ferry, only waiting about 10 minutes. 

You have probably guessed from the information above that there aren’t any major roads to get you from A to B.

But don’t worry – getting around the island is still easy and convenient, thanks to golf carts, mopeds, bicycles, or simply walking.

If you’re like me, modes of transport like the buggies are fun and different, cruising along the picturesque streets in a zippy little vehicle. The feeling of the wind in your hair, the sun on your skin, and being in control of your own time schedule. 

How long do you need there?

With everything there is to do, I would recommend a Three Day island Itinerary.

However, I know many tourists that will only day trip over from Cancun. While that’s an excellent taster, I don’t think it’s enough time to appreciate all the island offers.

We spent five nights on the island and thought it was an OK average, but three of those days were dedicated to snorkelling with the whale sharks. That’s why I suggest deciding what you want to do before you go and then planning your stay accordingly. 

Is it safe to visit?

Yes, I believe Isla Mujeres is a very safe place to visit, especially after hearing about things that can happen in Cancun. Overall, there was no time on the Island that I felt unsafe or in a position to get in an unsafe situation. 

The people were friendly and helpful when asking for directions or ordering food at the restaurants. From the welcoming locals to the tranquil atmosphere, there’s a sense of security that surrounds the island.

That being said, I’m also not in my 20s and not looking to party all night long or put myself in higher-risk positions. 

When it comes to traveling to a new country, it’s always important to exercise caution and be mindful of your safety. It also means you shouldn’t throw caution to the wind and wander around alone or in dark alleys at night.

When is the best time to visit?

Visiting Isla Mujeres from January through April offers perfect weather conditions, but unfortunately, it’s also the time when the highest influx of tourists arrives. 

On the other hand, May through October are the hottest and rainiest months of the year but still offer plenty of sunshine and warm water for snorkelling and diving. 

The best part about visiting in November and December is the decrease in tourism, meaning lower hotel and tour rates. 

I have to say, visiting during the Whale Shark Season (July & August) was an experience like no other. Despite a little morning shower on our first day, we had clear skies and sunshine for the rest of the trip. 

However, remember to keep an eye on the hurricane season, which peaks in September and October, and make sure to get travel insurance in case of any unforeseeable weather conditions. 

Wrap up!

In conclusion, I think Isla Mujeres is genuinely a paradise worth exploring. This includes enjoying the many beaches to immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage.

It’s sure to live up to its hype for anyone looking for a break from city life, with its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. 

Thanks for reading this blog post today and I hope you have found the personal experience and information you were looking for. However, if you’re still researching and need more resources, please check out my other Mexico Blogs.