Isla Mujeres, Mexico is a small but mighty island located off the coast of Cancun. This slow and somewhat sleepy paced island has bright blue waters, white sand beaches, coral reefs, Mayan ruins and it has a whole vibe of its own. If you’re looking for a unique Yucatan vacation, Isla Mujeres might be the place for you! Here are 5 top rated adventures to check out and some helpful tips along the way!
First off, you need to get to the island! The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi from the Cancun Airport to the Gran Puerto Cancun ferry dock. From there you can take the ‘UltraMar’ ferry over to Isla Mujeres for about $6 US.
*Note: The ferry is well maintained and even has air conditioning!*
The UltraMar ferry schedules is as follows:
- The first ferry TO Isla Mujeres FROM Cancun is at 5:00 AM. Ferries run every half hour until 8:30 pm, then every hour until 11:30 pm (9:30, 10:30 and 11:30).
- The first ferry FROM Isla Mujeres TO Cancun is at 5:30 AM. Ferries run every half hour until 9:00 pm and then every hour until 12:00 AM (10:00 pm, 11:00 pm, 12:00 am).
Swim with Whale Sharks
Swimming with whale sharks is known to be one of the most unique and exciting activities to experience on the island! Between May and September, as long as winds aren’t too strong, you have the opportunity to swim with the sharks. These big, spotted beauties are quite harmless and act more like a tropical fish than a shark.
Ceviche Tours is currently having a summer sale that gives guests $25 USD off their tour. This tour costs $150 USD including wet suit rentals, fresh fruit, non alcoholic refreshments, a safe guide as well as a photographer/videographer on board to help you get that perfect shot for Instagram!
Snorkeling or Diving at an Underwater Art Museum
This is not a joke – there really is an underwater art museum off the coast of Isla Mujeres. Explore the magical underwater world of MUSA. This unique conservation site is every divers or snorkeler’s dream come true. The combination of a complex reef structure, tropical fish and over 500 statues gives you a one of a kind experience in the depths of the bright blue waters.
*Note: You cannot visit the site of MUSA on your own, the sites are scattered offshore and require a boat and someone who knows where they’re going. And please, bring reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen to use. It is very important to preserve the reef as well as protect the marine life.
For around $100 USD you can get a guided tour like this one here.
Mayan Goddess Ixchel Temple
Located at the southern tip of the island, also known as the highest elevation on the Yucatan Peninsula, you will find the home to the ruins of the Temple Ixchel. Ixchel is the Mayan goddess of both the jaguar and the moon. Known as the goddess of midwifery, medicine and happiness. While you’re exploring the area watch for things like hidden cliffside beaches, Modern art, rock sculptures, ancient iguanas and the temple itself! Please remember to clean up after yourselves and respect the sacred land.
*Fun fact: Isla Mujeres, or “Island of Women,” gets its name from the many carved statues of women that were found on the island and used in the worship of goddess Ixchel.
Golf Cart Tour Isla Mujeres
Take a guided ride on a street legal golf carts to explore the fun and iconic sites that Isla Mujeres has to offer. See hidden gems and experience what makes the island just a beautiful and unique place to be. The perfect combination of fun in the sun and local history, this tour has something for everyone in the family!
Rates starting at $91 USD you and up to 9 friends (Ages 5 and up) can take advantage of this 5-Star rated tour.
*Note: Bring a swimsuit and a towel if you want to enjoy one of the top 10 rated beaches in the world!
Take a stroll down Avenida Miguel Hidalgo
Considered the “downtown” of Isla Mujeres, this pedestrian only street will have you coming back for the ambiance itself! Enjoy walking around, exploring all the cute little shops and perhaps even getting a bite of authentic Mexican cuisine!
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