15 Things to Do in Isla Mujeres for Your Bucket List
Located just a short trip from the bustling marina city of Cancun, Isla Mujeres cuts above the list as one of the most beautiful places on earth with a stockpot of rich history and fascinating culture.
Despite the island being only half a mile wide and 5 miles long, the variety of things to do in Isla Mujeres is staggering.
Here’s a list of unmissable things you should consider adding to your bucket list!
1. Explore the Island by Golf Cart
Forget the scooters and cabs, be spontaneous for the day and cruise around Isla Mujeres on a golf cart instead!
In spite of being a small town, Isla Mujeres is loaded with tons of treasures waiting to be discovered — with a golf cart you can hop on and off as much as you like.
Enjoy the ocean’s cool breeze and salt sweeping through your hair while you admire the astounding views of the island. The island is tiny so you can drive around it in about an hour.
Keep in mind that traffic laws apply just like any other part of the world.
Make sure you have your driver’s license on you, it’s required to rent the golf cart!
(Embarrassing fact: We forgot ours but luckily the rental spot allowed us to put a damage deposit down instead).
2. Hit Up a Beach Club
Mornings are bright in Isla Mujeres, and your perfect day just begs for a beach club visit.
The best beach clubs on Isla Mujeres, it’s all about chilling out with style.
Each offers a unique vibe, so find your spot, claim your chair, and let the island’s spirit do the rest.
3. Soak in the Sun at Playa Norte
If you’re visiting Isla Mujeres, the odds are you’re a sand and sun fanatic.
Playa Norte is a gorgeous beach dotted with tall palm trees where you can lay back, relax and enjoy the beaming sun.
The waters are clear and calm, which makes it the perfect spot for snorkeling.
There are separate sections of the beach and where you hang your hat depends on what you’re in the mood for – beach bars that play upbeat music or serene and relaxed stretches of white sand where you can listen to the crashing waves.
4. Snorkel Amongst Rainbow Reefs
Isla Mujeres is not just another beach spot; it’s where the ocean floor comes alive.
Fins on? Good, because the coral reefs are popping with color—like a giant, underwater kaleidoscope.
Schools of fish in every hue dart around you in a playful dance!
Make sure you check out our top spots for the best snorkeling on Isla Mujeres.
5. Snorkel at an Underwater Museum
MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum is a mysterious place and one of the coolest underwater attractions in the world.
Dive down to the sea bed and be mesmerized by hundreds of statues — stone human formations standing and kneeling in eternal silence, each one with an eerie story to tell.
This incredible work of art is meant to alleviate pressure from the natural reef by dividing the interest of thousands of tourists that visit the island each year.
This museum is divided into two sections:
Salon Punta Nizuc is just off the southern coast of Isla Mujeres and is only four meters deep — only snorkeling is allowed here.
Salon Manchones is near Cancun’s hotel zone and is 8 meters deep, perfectly suitable for both snorkelers and divers.
6. Go Deep-Sea Fishing
Ready to reel in a big one? Snap on that lucky hat because it’s barracuda and snapper season, depending on when you cast off.
Not to worry if you’re new to this—your captain has more tricks than a magician and will guide you through every step.
With rods ready and snacks packed, you’re in for a splash of fun and a boatload of stories to tell.
7. Visit Garrafon Reef Park
Garrafon Reef Park is a famous natural park; this place is like a real-life underwater fantasy world, but even better because you get to be part of the fun.
Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colorful fish darting every which way.
Before you know it, you’re off exploring hidden caves and checking out vibrant coral reefs teeming with life.
And that’s just the beginning – you can also soar high above on ziplines, lounge in hammocks under swaying palms, or groove to the rhythms of live music on the beach.
8. Play With Dolphins
Swimming with friendly dolphins is an activity you can’t miss during your trip to Isla Mujeres — it’s a marvelous experience for both kids and adults alike.
Get up close and personal with the adorable creatures and have one in a lifetime experience — a dolphin will propel you around in the enormous enclosure!
9. Support Local Artisans
If you’re itching for a splash of color and want to snag some authentic keepsakes, the Women’s Beading Cooperative on Isla Mujeres is your treasure trove.
Here, vibrant necklaces and earrings are more than accessories; they are stories woven by the skilled hands of local craftswomen.
Every purchase twinkles a little light of support for these artisans’ dreams. You’re not just buying jewelry; you’re cradling a fragment of Isla Mujeres’ spirit in your hands!
10. Ancient Ruins at Punta Sur
Punta Sur is the highest elevation on the Yucatan peninsula, graced by dramatic landscapes of cliffs and the views of the ocean stretches as far as your eyes could see.
Take a short stroll and you’ll discover a sculpture garden and an ancient Mayan temple.
Fun fact: this is the place where the sun first touches the Mexican soil every morning!
11. Find Souvenirs at the Local Market
Fancy a treasure hunt? The local market in Isla Mujeres is just the spot. It’s like a kaleidoscope of goodies where you can browse and haggle to your heart’s content.
Feel the buzz of the market as you weave your way through the maze of sellers.
You might bag a beautifully embroidered beach bag or a quirky, painted skull.
12. Swim With Whale Sharks
Does the thought of swimming with whale sharks make you brim with excitement? You’re in for a treat!
Isla Mujeres is a whale shark hotspot and chances are you’ll encounter at least one of these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
There’s no better way to appreciate the true natural surroundings than by swimming next to these majestic creatures.
13. Visit the Colorful Island Cemetery
Take a stroll where vivid hues meet heartfelt tributes at the Isla Mujeres Sea-View Cemetery.
Every grave is a splash of color, with ocean breezes whispering tales of the past.
Wander through this patchwork of history, where memories occupy every corner. It’s quiet, but the stories are loud.
14. Go Eat Around Town
Get ready to have your socks knocked off while you munch by the waves! In Isla Mujeres, it’s like the beach chairs and sunshine come with a big side of wow on your plate.
Fish tacos? Yes, please! The tortillas are unbelievably soft, and the fish is just chef’s kiss. Don’t forget, a zesty lime squeeze makes it perfect.
You’ve gotta trust a spot where locals love to grab a bite, so keep those ears open for the busy spots; that’s the good stuff.
15. Watch the Sunset at Playa Norte
Got a passion for colors that pop and sea airs that soothe? Playa Norte is your go-to spot for sunsets that’ll make your eyes dance.
It’s like painting a dream with every shade of fire – prettier than a postcard. Imagine a sky melting into warm oranges, pinks, and purples.
Say goodnight the island way, and trust me, you’ll leave overflowing with chill vibes.
Final Thoughts
The rich history and unique flair of this island paradise will keep you on your toes — you definitely won’t be running out of things to do in Isla Mujeres!
We’ve danced with dolphins, searched for hidden treasures on the beach, and even made some flippered friends while snorkeling in the bright blue sea.
But hey, the fun doesn’t have to stop—there’s even more to discover! Get ready to become an island expert with our in-depth Isla Mujeres Travel Guide.
