What To Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico: 27 Activities For You
Wondering what to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico?
Wondering what to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico?
Isla Mujeres is a stunning island with plenty of activities, places to relax, and adventures you’ll remember for a lifetime. While staying in Playa del Carmen, we took a day trip on a catamaran to the island.
It was an absolute blast!
Although, the amount of free tequila given to us made our memories a little spotty during our adventure. Luckily we posted an embarrassing amount on social media so we can look back and remember it all.
But anyway, I am here to tell you there are TONS of amazing things to do on this beautiful island!
Whether you want to snorkel in the bay, collect seashells on Playa Norte, or swim with whale sharks in the ocean, there’s a fun adventure waiting for you.
So if you are wondering what to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, I have you covered.
In this post, I will go over all the exciting activities you need to check out while visiting the gorgeous small island.
A Brief Overview of Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is located in Mexico, in the Caribbean Sea. This area lies just east of the Yucatan Peninsula.
It is accessed via the Isla Mujeres ferry at Puerto Juarez in Cancun. Isla Mujeres is close to the famous tourist destination. With Cancun Airport being a common way to get to the area.
Isla de Mujeres means Island of Women. The women island was declared sacred to the ancient Mayan goddess of fertility, Ixchel. You can still find the ruins of a Mayan temple on the southern tip of the island.
Isla Mujeres is famous for its warm weather and powdered white sand beaches. Along with comfortable waters for swimming, this location also has white sandy shores home to many sea creatures.
In Isla Mujeres, you can find a wide selection of sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful tropical fish.
What To Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico
When you visit Isla Mujeres, Mexico, you’ll be overwhelmed by the number of things to do on the tiny island!
Let’s dive in to the top activities to fill your vacation with unforgettable vacation memories.
Explore the Beaches
Explore the many beaches that Isla Mujeres offers, such as Playa Norte (north beach) and Playa Centro! It is one of the most relaxing and recharging activities you can do while on your vacation.
You will absolutely get your fill of spectacular sights. But you’ll also be able to experience the calm, lapping waves and blue waters among the palm trees.
The east coast beaches are rocky with strong currents which, although beautiful, make them dangerous for swimming.
So, while thinking about what to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, keep in mind that the beaches on the north and west coast of the island are the main and best to see.
These beaches have turquoise waters so clear you can see right through. And sand that is so white you’ll need sunglasses to look at it.
Consider taking a stroll on Playa Norte first thing in the morning. This beach is a great spot to see one of the most stunning sunrises of your life.
Swim With Whale Sharks
In Isla Mujeres, you can swim with whale sharks, one of the coolest activities anywhere on Earth. Whale sharks are gentle creatures who aren’t aggressive. They feed on plankton and small fish that can fit into their mouths.
Whale shark season runs from May to September. With July and August being ideal as the water is at its warmest. (Which is what draws these majestic animals to this part of the Caribbean Sea).
Most travelers will book one of the many boat tours dedicated to whale shark swimming.
Keep in mind it is not guaranteed that you’ll see any on your trip! Whale sharks can sometimes be elusive.
When you are wondering what to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, this is it. From June to September, the largest whale shark gathering in the world happens on the north side of the island.
It is best to book a whale shark adventure tour with a certified guide. This gives you the best chance to see and swim with these amazing creatures.
The tour includes the use of snorkel gear, snacks, lunch, and an absolutely unforgettable experience!
Experience History at the Ixchel Ruins
Isla Mujeres has been inhabited for more than 1500 years and was once an integral part of the Mayan civilization.
Because of this vibrant history, Isla Mujeres is one of the best places to see several culturally significant mayan ruins. With amazing sites like the Ixchel Ruins.
These ruins are the remains of a temple dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel. She ruled over the moon, medicine, and fertility.
Ixchel was also the goddess of happiness, and her followers would light torches in her temple to honor her.
Try Snorkeling
A snorkeling tour is a vacation classic, especially on Isla Mujeres. Which has some of the best beaches to snorkel from. Many tour operators will have all the materials and equipment you need on-site to visit many of the sea creatures who call the area home.
This activity can give you an unadulterated view of wildlife in the area. And bring you up close and personal with the animals in Isla Mujeres.
If you’re lucky, you may be able to touch some of the creatures who call the waters home.
Going snorkeling among the entire area’s largest coral reef is an experience you won’t want to miss. I strongly recommend checking out this snorkeling tour.
Which has hundreds of ⭐ 5-star reviews, takes you to three amazing locations, and includes a fresh seafood lunch!
Swimming with and witnessing the spectacular marine life in their natural habitat is one of the best things to do when you visit Isla Mujeres.
Rent a Golf Cart
Golf carts are among the top choices for travel around the island. And renting one can give you a leisurely way to explore without missing out on the sights.
After all, I am all for the slow, easy, stop-and-smell-the-roses type of exploring.
A car may go too fast, and you may lose out on seeing some of the most stunning features of the island.
You can rent a golf cart from a few different vendors on the island, with some offering curbside pickup. Rates vary and can be by hour, day, or week.
If you want to experience some of the authentic local drinks (like the delicious Mezcal!) and not worry about carting yourself around, you should seriously try the Isla Mujeres golf car bar crawl.
Explore the popular local watering holes with included Mezcal tasting, beer flight, 4 specialty cocktails, and snacks! All while being carted around with your own personal guide for you and your friends.
Gaze at the Underwater Museum of Art
The Underwater Museum of Art, or MUSA, is a constant work in progress. And seeks to combat the effects of climate change on the world’s oceans.
You can experience the Underwater Museum of Art just off the coast of Isla Mujeres. Either by taking a dive, going on a snorkeling tour, or embarking on a magical glass-bottom boat.
There are 12 galleries for you to explore. And 1,364 man-made areas that were crafted to create homes for sea life in the area.
Explore this area to understand how Isla Mujeres is contributing to saving the planet.
This snorkeling tour takes you to explore the Underwater Museum of Art. See beautiful natural coral reef and stunning marine life, and includes lunch at a delicious local restaurant.
Head to Punta Sur Park
Punta Sur Park is a top destination for many visiting Isla Mujeres.
This park is located at the southernmost tip of the island and remains the highest part of the island. Resting only 20 meters above sea level.
It’s a clear plot of land, with Punta Sur providing many sidewalks for you to explore and highly significant statues to see. Punta Sur is surrounded by water and rocky cliff edges that will have you feeling more connected to nature.
Go Scuba Diving
What is an island vacation without a scuba diving adventure?
Scuba diving will give you a unique view of the wildlife living off the coast of Isla Mujeres and a chance to see the Underwater Museum of Art I mentioned above.
Consider dipping into the ocean with a good friend or a scuba instructor who can ensure your safety.
The island hosts several scuba diving companies, with varying rates and options.
If you are looking to scuba dive I suggest this scuba diving experience which gives you the full Underwater Museum experience and includes the use of all necessary scuba gear, plus refreshments.
You also get the opportunity to see some absolutely stunning marine life and coral reef.
Enjoy the Isla Mujeres Artist Fair
The Isla Mujeres Artist Fair is one of the most entertaining events on the island and is open to travelers and locals alike.
You can pop into the Cultural Center to see the works made by those who have grown up on the island and those who have settled in Isla Mujeres.
If you’re looking for more than art, you’ll be able to experience mouth-watering food and support the non-profits and charities looking for generous donors.
The Isla Mujeres Artist Fair is a meaningful way to give back to the environment, climate, and culture.
Set Sail With a Catamaran Tour
Catamaran tours are an essential part of Isla Mujeres’ culture and tourism. The island boasts a number of catamaran tours, all operated by experts. Rates vary, as does the duration of a trip, with most being at least four hours long.
A catamaran tour is a perfect way for you and your friends to get a view of the whole island from a distance and even see a whale or two off the coast.
While these tours can be such a fantastic adventure. You don’t have to confine yourself to sightseeing either.
Scuba diving, snorkeling, and open bars are among the many other options catamaran tours offer.
On our catamaran ride from Playa del Carmen, we got to snorkel in the ocean and enjoy an open bar while meeting tons of new friends.
Have Fun at Avenida Miguel Hidalgo
Avenida Miguel Hidalgo is a street in Isla Mujeres bustling with plenty of shops, restaurants, and things to do. You’ll never be without something to eat while walking down this street.
Prices here are a little higher than you’ll find elsewhere on Isla Mujeres. Still, this area boasts some of the finest outdoor seating around, perfect for listening to live music or watching tourists pass by.
Plus, there are lots of souvenirs worth taking home with you.
But it’s nighttime when Avenida Hidalgo really comes alive.
Spend Time Fishing
Fishing is another vacation staple on Isla Mujeres. Most hotels and resorts will offer the necessary equipment and material you need to spend some time on the coast with a fishing pole.
Additionally, you may be able to charter a coat or catamaran to get out on the open ocean and catch some fish.
Be mindful of the fish in the area and which locations are the best spots for fishing during each season.
Your hotel or boat guide can help you figure out which fish are endangered and should be released back into the ocean upon being caught.
Spot Turtles at La Tortuga Granja
La Tortuga Granja is a turtle farm dedicated to supporting some of the most endangered sea turtles on the planet. There’s a small fee to gain access to the farm and learn all about the cute animals that call it home.
If you’re vacationing during the right time of year, typically August from October, you may be able to watch as hundreds of baby turtles scuttle down the playa tortuga (turtle beach) and enter the ocean for the first time.
Some of the turtles who lay their eggs on La Tortuga Granja have a genetic anomaly that makes them albino and all the more stunning.
Keep an Eye Out for Street Art
Street art is everywhere on Isla Mujeres, with colorful sea wall murals capturing a traditional form of creativity in Mexico.
You’ll be treated to some of the most show-stopping art on the sides of buildings or statues erected to show off the artistic talent of residents.
These sea wall murals are the perfect opportunity for you to stop and grap some Instagram-worthy shots. This artwork will likely have a signature, so keep an eye out online to see if you can spot their other creations!
Unwind at Pool Del Rey
Pool Del Rey is a small natural pool that gets filled by the surrounding waters.
This pool of water is connected to the ocean but secluded since it is surrounded by rocky cliffs, making it the perfect place to relax away from the crashing waves.
You can access this pool via a bridge at Playa Norte. Keep in mind that the pool itself belongs to a hotel called Mia Reef Isla Mujeres Hotel.
Dine at Mercado Municipal
Mercado Municipal is one of the best restaurants on Isla Mujeres and is highly praised for its stunning atmosphere, entertainment, and wide variety of dining options.
Here, you can get some of the most traditional foods dating back centuries and try some of the local fish.
If you want an authentic dining experience, head to Mercado Municipal. The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and the cuisine is a flawless mixture of elegant Mexican cuisine and the best street food in the city.
The market is open daily from the crack of dawn to around two in the afternoon.
Buy From the Women’s Beading Cooperative
Women’s Beading Cooperative is a perfect place to get your next piece of jewelry or a lovely purse.
This location helps support women in the area by giving them work and paying them for the stunning pieces they create.
Each item is handmade and one-of-a-kind, ensuring every gift bought here is truly unique.
Despite being intricate and beautiful, the pieces made by the cooperative are affordable. They’re well-made and likely have your friends wanting to know where you got them!
Cycle the Island
Cycling across the island won’t take very long and can be done in a single day. Riding a bike offers amazing views of spots like Playa Norte and gives you a sneak peek into how daily life is lived in the area.
Consider renting a bicycle from a local shop or your hotel.
Bring a backpack or bag to store valuables and items you purchase. A bonus of cycling through the island is that you’ll be able to choose your route without the restrictions of a guided tour.
So, if Playa Norte isn’t your thing, you can always cycle to Avenida Miguel Hidalgo.
Stop by the Zocalo
The Zocalo is the town square, where the pulse of Isla Mujeres resides. While a town square might not be high up on your list, it’s a lovely spot for live entertainment, activities, and people-watching.
You can shop all afternoon long, indulge in exotic drinks, and try new foods you can’t find anywhere else.
It isn’t the liveliest place in Isla Mujeres, but that changes once it gets dark. The nightlife is so much fun.
What’s more, most of the shops and restaurants in the Zocalo are open, outside, and connected, offering a feeling of melting together.
Volunteer at Isla Animals
Isla Animals is a dog shelter and rescue located on Isla Mujeres and offers visitors and locals the chance to care for those in need. You and your family are welcome to support the shelter.
The shelter is always in need of assistance and encourages volunteers to spend time at the center caring for their dogs.
Kayak at Kin Ha
Kayaking is one of the best activities to experience while visiting Isla Mujeres. The ocean waters are pristine and usually calm, making it the ideal environment for a gentle paddle around the island.
There are several kayak operators, who will have all the advice needed to make the most of your time on the water.
Remember to take it easy if you aren’t an experienced kayaker.
See Spectacular Views at Guadalupe Chapel
Despite being an active church, Guadalupe Chapel is open to tourists.
No matter your affiliation or denomination, you’re welcome to enjoy the sights that this chapel has to offer and take in the stunning architecture.
It’s the views of the ocean that draw most people to this gorgeous chapel. The impressive glass wall here provides an enchanting oceanic vista, making it a serene spot for a little reflection on your vacation.
Shop, Shop, Shop
Isla Mujeres has dozens of shopping locations for you to enjoy, ranging from home decor to jewelry.
Whether you’re in the town square, walking down Avenida Miguel Hidalgo, or striding through other parts of the island like El Centro, there are plenty of unique gifts to take home.
Sample Drinks at Isla Brewery
Isla Mujeres, like many vacation destinations nearby, has an abundance of local and national drinks.
Of course, many hotels and resorts will have classic cocktails and beers, but Isla Brewery has some of the best, most localized flavors on the island.
It’s the only microbrewery in Isla Mujeres and offers several free beer samples for visitors. And, if you fall in love with their drinks, you can purchase bottles to take with you!
Relax With Yoga
Isla Mujeres has built a well-deserved reputation as a popular spot for yoga. There are countless beautiful spots just waiting for you to roll out a yoga mat and get connected with your inner self.
While many prefer to do yoga alone, Isla Mujeres boasts numerous yoga instructors and rentals for yoga equipment.
In fact, there’s even a dedicated yoga hotel called Na Balam.
Whether you decide to join a yoga class or have an individual session, you’ll find peace in Isla Mujeres. ✌️☮️
Take a Selfie With the Isla Mujeres Sign
The Isla Mujeres sign is as colorful and charming as everywhere else on the island. It’s also the perfect place to take a snapshot of yourself and your family or friends in front of it.
You can find the sign on the eastern part of the island, and it is a lovely example of a tradition common throughout Mexico. Just walk along Calle Abasolo and you’ll be taking delightful selfies in no time!
Check Out the Shell House and the Crayola House
The Shell House is a world-famous location that can be rented out and can accommodate two parties.
However, this location is in high demand. You may be able to sneak a quick peek if it’s not occupied!
Likewise, the Crayola House has become well-visited by families looking for a quick photo opportunity. The colorful building is painted to look like a familiar box of crayons and looks super cool.
These are a couple of the most unique houses. Definitely worth trying to get a peek at both of them.
Isla Mujeres Travel Tips
Here are a few travel tips so you can fully enjoy one of the best places in the Mexican Caribbean. Traveling is tough, but these travel tips can make your trip easy, fun, and exciting.
How To Get To Isla Mujeres
There are several ways to get to Isla Mujeres, including by plane, ferry, and boat. For ferry trips, you’ll have the option of traveling from either Gran Puerto pier or Puerto Juarez ferry terminal in Cancun.
You can get to the island easily off the coast of Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
We took a catamaran ride from Playa del Carmen, and it was so much fun.
This was the best way for the group of us to get to the island because the catamaran ride included an open bar and snorkeling (with snorkel gear included) on the way to the island.
Do your research to figure out which travel option is most practical for you and your travel buddies.
Best Time to Visit Isla Mujeres
Unlike many other vacation destinations, one of the best times to visit Isla Mujeres is between December and March.
Although half the world is experiencing winter during these months, Isla Mujeres never gets very cold. You can enjoy year-long summer months on the island.
May is the hottest month in Isla Mujeres, but the temperatures likely won’t dip below 60 degrees at night between December and March.
During these “winter months”, you’ll be able to experience everything the island has to offer without worrying about dealing with low temperatures.
Take Precautions in the Sun
Because Isla Mujeres is a tropical location, the sun is shining most of the time. Although this is appealing for many vacationers, it can be a struggle for those prone to sunburns or other conditions.
Keep sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat handy while adventuring, and seek shelter often to prevent getting burnt during your stay.
Many resorts and hotels will have sunscreen handy in their gift shops to help you forgo any discomfort during your stay, just in case you forget.
Traveling Around Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is an island, which means you have access to all kinds of transportation options. There is a lot to do on the tiny island, and you may be wondering how to get to each activity.
You can use taxis, cars, golf carts, or bikes to travel around and explore Isla Mujeres’ many attractions on the entire island, whether it’s Playa Norte or the Zocalo.
Golf cart rental is a really fun way to get around the island.
Additionally, some ferries and boats can take you to other islands and help you get to and from your airport.
Consult with someone at your hotel’s front desk to inquire further about the travel options available on Isla Mujeres.
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers can help you understand how to get the best out of your Isla Mujeres adventure without missing out on safety.
Is Isla Mujeres safe?
Yes. Isla Mujeres is among the safest vacation destinations for travelers looking for a near-paradisal location.
It is also one of the safest places to visit in Mexico for travelers.
What is Isla Mujeres best known for?
Isla Mujeres is best known for its amazing white-sand beaches, such as Playa Norte, and crystal-clear waters.
These warm waters are beautiful and tropical, offering a year-round taste of tranquility for travelers.
The white beaches of the island are truly spectacular and can be blinding in the hot sun! Be sure to bring along some sunglasses when packing your bags!
How big is Isla Mujeres?
Isla Mujeres is five miles long and half a mile wide.
Although small, this island is home to around 13,500 citizens and many villages. However, many of these citizens are from other countries, like the United States and Canada.
Does Isla Mujeres accept US dollars?
Most vendors on Isla Mujeres and the surrounding vacation destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen will accept American dollars and Mexican pesos.
Still, it’s always a good idea to convert your dollars to pesos, especially before landing somewhere like Cancun Airport.
What does Isla Mujeres mean?
Isla Mujeres comes from two Spanish words meaning island and women. Initially, Isla Mujeres was once known as the Island of Women.
However, the name was shortened to Isla Mujeres over time.
Final Thoughts on What To Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico
To wrap it up, Isla Mujeres Mexico is an amazing destination to explore. Figuring out what to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico can be overwhelming.
But there are so many awesome things to do.
From its breathtaking views and relaxing beaches to the delicious food, exciting water activities, and liberating adventures that await you there. The island is just perfect for anyone looking for a break from the mundane.
Don’t forget the best way to get around Isla Mujeres is to rent a golf cart. It’s definitely the most popular mode of transportation and will help make your island experience that much more enjoyable.
And finally, no matter where you decide to go on your travels, always remember to live mindfully and be present with each moment of your adventurous travels.
You might even find yourself getting into some unexpected adventures along the way! So go forth, wanderlust with courage, and go where you haven’t gone.
And enjoy Isla Mujeres, Mexico with an open heart, and let the beautiful island vibes lead you.
Happy travels, my friends!