11 Top Things to Do in Isla Mujeres
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.
The island boasts a temperate climate which means you can pack and go any time of the year.
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.
Don’t know about you but it sounds like paradise to us.
Keep in mind that traffic laws apply just like any other part of the world.
The island is tiny so you can drive around it in about an hour.
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. 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.
Catch the awe-inspiring sunset before wrapping up your day on the island.
3. Visit a Turtle Farm
Take a break from the sun’s rays and visit this small but charming aquarium.
Tortugranja is home to a variety of sea life, including the hawksbill turtle, the green sea turtle, and the loggerhead.
Isla Mujeres is a breeding ground for turtles and typically lay their eggs on the island’s powder-soft sandy beaches from May to September.
The eggs are then gathered, placed in the pens at Tortugranja where they’re nurtured and protected from predators.
Hatchlings are usually released immediately into the Caribbean waters while the turtles that need more care are kept on the farm and released once they’ve recuperated.
This hatchery is less than 5km from the center of town and can easily be accessed with a cab or a golf cart.
Entrance fee is 30 pesos per person.
4. Go Snorkeling 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.
5. Visit Garrafon Reef Park
Garrafon Reef Park is a famous natural park not only for its picturesque spots but also for the remarkable recreational activities, ranging from kayaking and hiking to snorkeling and zip-lining.
There’s also an amazing infinity pool and lots of shaded areas where you can lay down on a hammock and simply enjoy the tranquillity.
6. Play With Dolphins
Swimming with docile 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!
Swimming with dolphins can come with a hefty price tag but the experience is unforgettable and absolutely worth every coin.
7. Take in the Stunning Views 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!
8. Join the Locals at the Zocalo
Zocalos are pretty popular across all Mexican cities but you might find the Town Square in Isla Mujeres a little exceptional.
The island’s captivating vibe coupled with tasty food, music, and lively entertainment makes a fun excursion and it’s among the top things to do in Isla Mujeres.
9. Swim With Whale Sharks
Does the thought of swimming with the 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 magnificent sharks in their natural habitat.
There’s no better way to appreciate the true natural surroundings than by swimming next to these majestic creatures.
10. Go on a Shopping Spree
For people who love of browsing through shops and handcrafted boutiques, you’ll find endless options here.
Have your pick of original craft, jewelry and a plethora of souvenirs finished with an artistic touch and cultural authenticity.
11. Go Eat Around Town
Seafood lovers rejoice! It’s no surprise that most dishes served on the island come from the sea.
There’s no better way to indulge in the culture of any destination but through gastronomy experience.
Final Thoughts
Isla Mujeres is the perfect day trip from the hustle and bustle of Cancun.
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!
