Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres + the Perfect Itinerary

Isla Mujeres, Mexico, is a stunning island located off the coast of Cancun. On the small island, you will find beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of activities for travelers. Accessible by ferry, the island provides a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and boutique hotel options to budget-friendly guesthouses. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island’s attractions such as Punta Sur and its Mayan temple. 

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How to Get to Isla Mujeres

Getting to Isla Mujeres is fairly easy. The island is located just off the hotel zone in Cancun, and the most common way to get there is by taking a ferry from Puerto Juarez or Gran Puerto in Cancun. The ferry ride takes about 15-20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. You can also opt for a private boat charter or a seaplane for a more adventurous journey. 

If you are staying in Riviera Maya, the journey will be between 2-3 hours and a mix of driving and taking a ferry. 

Since the journey is so short and the island is fairly small, you could make the trip into a day trip, but I suggest staying for at least three days to experience everything this beautiful island has to offer slowly. 

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres

There are plenty of 5-star resorts, small independent hotels, and even cheap hotel options with great amenities on Isla Mujeres. While there are adults-only accommodation choices on this list, Isla Mujeres truly has something for every traveler. I recommend focusing on the accommodation and room type that suits your family and then looking into the specific hotel zone to determine where to stay in Isla Mujeres. 

Isla Mujeres offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. There’s something for everyone, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and boutique hotels. If you prefer a more serene and private experience, renting a vacation home or villa can be an excellent choice. The island’s main areas for accommodation are North Beach (Playa Norte) and the downtown area, both of which offer easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. 

Playa Norte 

We had a wonderful experience at Mia Reef Resort, one of the all-inclusive resorts on the island with direct beach access. The cove area offered incredible snorkeling, and the on-site restaurants were delicious. The guest rooms offer a private balcony with views of the ocean or resort area and the resort offers free wifi. 

Ixchel Beach Hotel offers standard rooms, large suites, and a penthouse with stunning views. All of the spacious rooms offer a variety of amenities. It is on your own private beach, has two ocean-view pools, and is a short walk to many bars and restaurants. This five-star resort will be obvious from the moment you step onto the property. 

The Hotel Secreto was voted one top 50 best hotel options in the world by Conde Nast, likely due to the incredible and unique outdoor swimming pool. It’s a gorgeous boutique hotel with a spa. Room options include standard rooms up to a large beach house directly on the lagoon. This is truly one of the best luxury hotels on the island.

Lotus Beach Hotel – adults only offers a beautiful beach club. It is a mid-size property with everything you need on site and a close location to off-site activities. 

Hotel Paradise Suites is considered a laid-back hotel with a beautiful but no-frills property with the highlight of proximity to the beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, air conditioning, and all the basic amenities you will need for a vacation focused on being outdoors. 

Selina Poc Na Isla Mujeres is the perfect place if you are interested in a Hostel experience. With a private beach, beautiful common areas, an outdoor pool and a very nice property, you are steps from Green Demon Beach Club and a few minute walk to the Taqueria Glenssy restaurant. if you are looking for a glimpse into local life, this could be a great choice. 

Downtown

Icaco Island Village – adults only is the ideal destination for a romantic getaway. This luxury boutique hotel offers rooms with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, as well as a rooftop terrace providing a 360-degree perspective of our stunning island. Some of the rooms have private balconies with hammocks and views of the beautiful turquoise waters. 

Hotel Bahia Chac Chi is a prime location at the center of Isla Mujeres, walking distance from downtown restaurants, shopping, and entertainment, as well as the main ferry port and the beautiful white sands of Isla Mujeres’ North Beach. 

Izla Beach Front Hotel is a wellness hotel focused on the overall vacation experience. With delicious culinary options, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, the Izla Hotel offers something for anyone hoping for a truly luxurious experience. 

There are several condo and private rentals available on the peninsula of Sac Bajo which is on the western shore. 

South End of the Island

Impression Isla Mujeres is an all-inclusive option and is part of the Secrets family of resorts. All suites include butler service and beautiful views. 

Mayan Monkey Isla Mujeres Hotel rooms provide options to have a jungle view or ocean view. The perfect hotel if you are interested in a relaxing day, want to see the natural beauty of the island and beach parties at night. 

Casa de los Sueños has a beautiful outdoor area with an infinity pool, seating and incredible views. It’s a hidden gem in the area. 

Hotel Belo is designed to accommodate everyone, from budget-conscious options to and those who seek five-star amenities with all-inclusive options. The resort has beautiful pools, a nice beach, rooftop infinity pool, bar, and hot tub, as well as the 140° restaurant. 

What to Do in Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a paradise for beach lovers and offers the best experiences for water sports enthusiasts. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities due to the island’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. You can also rent a golf cart or scooter to explore the island, visit the famous Punta Sur and its Mayan temple, or swim with whale sharks (in season). North Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing with a cold drink in hand. In the evenings, don’t miss out on the vibrant nightlife in downtown Isla Mujeres, where you can find lively bars, restaurants, and street performances.

Getting around the island is very easy. I recommend looking into a rental golf cart or scooter so you can explore the island on your own schedule. You could also consider a bike rental or hiring a taxi. 

Visit Playa Norte which is known for white sand beaches and is one of the best beaches in Mexico. A perfect place to get your beach fix if you do not have access at your hotel. 

Hit the Kin Ha beach club for the afternoon. The beach club features a pristine beach with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. Visitors can also indulge in delicious food and refreshing drinks at the beachfront restaurant and bar. The club’s amenities include lounge chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment for those interested in activities like kayaking or snorkeling.

Take a sunset cruise around the island. You can book a variety of boat tours, but a sunset cruise can’t be beat! 

Visit Punta Sur Park, a beautiful historic/eco park is located at the southernmost end of Isla Mujeres. Nature lovers should not miss this gem. The park is complete with Mayan ruins, stunning views, walking trails, dramatic cliffs, and even iguanas. Lots and lots of iguanas. The mesmerizing blue waters alone make it a worthwhile destination.

Snorkel at MUSA – the underwater museum of art. Book a glass bottom boat tour where you will have the chance to take a ride and also snorkel to see the underwater sculpture garden. 

Snorkel again at one of the many reefs off the coast of Isla Mujeres. Tour options are endless around the island! This all-inclusive snorkel trip would be the perfect way to spend the day.

Swim with whale sharks. From mid-spring until September, it’s possible to swim with the gentle giants in the waters off the coast, as the island is situated on the migration route of whale sharks, and is one of the best places to spot them. This allows for an opportunity to witness and appreciate their enormous size and grace.

Walk around the downtown area, starting with Avenida Miguel Hidalgo. 

Take a day trip to Isla Contoy to snorkel, see the beautiful white sandy beaches, bird watch and keep an eye out for sea turtles. 

FYI: Indios Beach club was a popular beach club on the island however it’s now closed! Keep this in mind as you plan your trip. 

What to Bring to Isla Mujeres

• Reef-safe Sunscreen 
• Hats – I always pack a beach hat and a baseball hat 
• Sunglasses 
• Comfortable walking shoes – a must if you plan on exploring the island, especially if you intend to visit sites like Punta Sur or the island’s lighthouse. 
• Snorkel gear – many tours include a snorkel but it’s nice to have your own throughout the trip. There are coral reefs all throughout the island! We have this snorkel and mask and this full face snorkel– both are great.
• Kindle – I don’t leave my house without it these days, but especially if I am taking a beach or pool trip. I love that these are water resistant and hold several books while taking up far less space than a traditional book. 
• Bluetooth speaker – for when you have an area of the beaches to yourself

The Prefect 4-Day Isla Mujeres Itinerary

Arrival day:

• Take the morning ferry to the island (around 9am)
• Check into your accommodations, your room likely won’t be availible but the hotel should hold your bags.
• Rent a golf cart and self-tour the island. This will help you get a visual of the entire island and determine your next few days. (around 12pm)
• Check into your hotel and head to the beach! (around 4pm)
• Enjoy a relaxing dinner on property or nearby

Day two:

• Book a snorkel tour for MUSA
• Have lunch near Avenida Miguel Hidalgo.
• Enjoy a pool afternoon at your resort
• Take a sunset catamaran tour

Day three:

• Find a snorkel spot near Playa Norte and spend the day on the beach
• Book an all-day excursion, either swimming with whale sharks or a day trip to Isla Contoy

The island of Isla Mujeres is the best area for a family vacation, only a quick distance from Cancun. If you are looking for beautiful beaches, amazing snorkeling and a wide variety of activities on a smaller island, the tropical Isla Mujeres Island will be perfect for you!