ISLA MUJERES
​If you're looking for a tropical paradise, this Mexican Caribbean island is the perfect destination. With crystal clear waters and stunning white sand beaches like Playa Norte, it's no surprise that it has been named one of the top 10 beaches in the world. The island offers a range of activities, from snorkeling and diving to exploring the local cuisine and nightlife. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, this island has something for everyone. Plus, its proximity to Cancun makes it easily accessible for travelers.
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Discover the Wonders of Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world - Playa Norte. But that's not all! Explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island and participate in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, or visit the underwater museum, Museo Subacuático de Arte. Take a tour of the island and see Punta Sur, the southernmost point of the island, or swim with whale sharks (during the season).
For a more personal experience, rent a golf cart and explore the island at your own pace. Visit the Turtle Farm and gain insight into conservation efforts to protect sea turtles. Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine at one of the island's many restaurants. Attend a traditional Mexican festival or cultural event to immerse yourself in the local culture. For a truly secluded island experience, take a day trip to nearby Isla Contoy.
How to get to Isla Mujeres
After arriving at Cancun International Airport, you have several convenient options for taking a ferry to Isla Mujeres. The most popular ferry service is Ultramar, known for its reliability and frequent departures. To get to the ferry terminal, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer from the airport directly to the Puerto Juárez terminal, which is about a 30-minute drive.
Ultramar ferries depart from Puerto Juárez approximately every half hour from early morning until late evening. The ferry ride itself is a scenic 15-20 minute journey across the Caribbean Sea, offering comfortable seating, air conditioning, and even an open-air deck for panoramic views. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry from Playa Tortugas, El Embarcadero, or Playa Caracol, but these terminals have less frequent departures. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the terminal. Each ferry terminal provides amenities like parking, restrooms, and snack bars, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to your Isla Mujeres adventure.
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Then & Now
The first news of Isla Mujeres dates back to 564-1516 AD when it was a Mayan providence called Ekab. During this time Isla Mujeres was not a human settlement but a sanctuary to Ixchel (goddess of weaving, happiness, the moon, abundance, medicine, and fertility amongst others). In 1517 a Spanish expedition under the leadership of Francisco Fernandez de Cordoba discovered the island and found a sanctuary with a representation of Ixchel and a court of women, hence the name of Isla Mujeres was given. In 1850, more than 250 fishermen, pirates and Mayans running from the way of Castes established themselves in the village of Dolores, in Isla.
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Now Isla Mujeres has more than 13500 residents is mapped at 21 11 5 and longitude West 86 42 50, has an average temp of 80f or 27c with 60% humidity all year round. The Mexican government and its water department installed an undersea piping system, the first in the world in 1988, thus supplying a sufficient amount of clean drinking water to the island. Also a drainage and sewerage plant have allowed the waters around the island to remain free of contamination.
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“El Centro” or downtown is located at the North end of the island and is near North Beach. A beach claimed by Jacques Costeau to be one of the most beautiful beaches.
The main street called Hidalgo is filled with restaurants of many cultures with many different types of international cuisine. There are also numerous on North beach. The live music scene on the island is strong and abounds with world-class musicians and artists, with many restaurants supplying live music to drink and dance to. The actual island is only 7km long and a day can be passed hiring a bike, golf cart or moped and exploring the island. There are many things to see. Many arrive by boat to the island and there are numerous marinas and docks with full-service facilities. Also, many opportunities to score work on a boat and travel the Caribbean as many backpackers on the island tend to do. Isla Mujeres is the island for short vacation, family getaways and backpackers alike, all here for the sun and diving or for a more relaxing time of massages, yoga, and meditation. Isla Mujeres has something to appeal to something in everyone