Skip to Content

Why Isla Mujeres Is One Of The Most Magical Towns Near Cancun

Share The Article

Last Updated

Isla Mujeres has earned a reputation as one of the top destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, and for good reason. This year, the island was officially nominated as a pueblo mágico for the seventh year in a row – a testament to its stunning and colorful streets, unique charm, and unparalleled tropical culture. In this article, we’ll reveal what makes Isla Mujeres one of the most magical towns near Cancun. 

Aerial view of Isla Mujeres and tropical beach

Isla Mujeres Is Easy To Reach

Isla Mujeres is a small island situated around 13 kilometers off the coast of Cancun. Over the years, the island has seen its popularity skyrocket, and it is widely regarded as one of the best Caribbean destinations thanks to its pristine coastline and some of the lowest crime rates in the region. Measuring some 7 kilometers in length, it is small yet diverse, where travelers can enjoy some of the world’s top-rated beaches and countless other attractions.

Ferry boat in Cancun with a man waiting for luggage to be loaded

Ferries regularly depart from Cancun’s Punta Sam terminal to Isla Mujeres, with the ride taking some 35 minutes. Some resorts also offer private transfers from the mainland.

It’s Home To One Of Mexico’s Most Magical Towns

Travelers can find one of Mexico’s top pueblos mágicos (magical towns) in Isla Mujeres. Magical towns are small villages across Mexico that are known for possessing a unique charm thanks to untouched nature, quaint old towns, or a rich historical legacy. Isla Mujeres was designated as a pueblo mágico for the first time in 2015, and since then, it has enjoyed a status as one of the most popular ones in Mexico. 

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

Isla Mujeres Boats in dock on a sunny day

Isla Mujeres was chosen by Mexico’s Federal Tourism Secretary as a magical town due to the diverse range of attractions travelers can enjoy on the small island. From its beaches – Playa Norte and Playa Centro – where travelers can soak in the tropical sun whilst enjoying local food and drink, to its underwater art museum, the island is home to plenty of bucket list-worthy attractions.

Isla Mujeres' stunning tropical water and buildings aerial view

Isla Mujeres Voted Best Island Destination In Mexico

Isla Mujeres has recently been voted the best island destination in Mexico, according to the World Travel Awards. Readers took into account the island’s plentiful availability of top-rated luxury resorts and stylish accommodations, as well as its Blue-Flag-certified beaches.

The island’s government has also invested heavily in cleanliness, and travelers can expect to find beaches in top-notch condition. Whilst sargassum has plagued Cancun and Playa del Carmen this year, Isla Mujeres is known for having some of the most impeccable beaches in the area.

Playa Norte Isla Mujeres beach with tourists playing in the sand

Compared to cities like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres offers a more authentic experience away from the hustle and bustle of packed resort hotspots. Even though the island is home to its fair share of resorts, travelers can also find plenty of tropical nature and areas to sit back and relax.

Underwater sculptures in Isla Mujeres museum

Some Of The Lowest Crime Rates In The Area

Isla Mujeres is known for its laid-back culture and tranquil lifestyle. The island is home to just a little over 10,000 people, and its crime rate is one of the lowest in the Mexican Caribbean. Whilst Cancun and other areas in Quintana Roo continue to see rising crime rates, travelers can enjoy peace of mind in Isla Mujeres, which is also home to several top-rated resorts. 

Tropical view and palm trees in Isla Mujeres

Law enforcement personnel also regularly patrol many of the area’s hotels and resorts, preventing crime from affecting travelers. Although crime rates are below average, visitors are still encouraged to act cautiously at night, avoiding dimly lit places.

Plan Your Next Cancun Vacation:

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

Choose From Thousands of Cancun and Riviera Maya Hotels, Resorts and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties


↓ Join the community ↓

The Cancun Sun Community FB group has all the latest travel news, conversations and tourism Q&A’s for the Mexican Caribbean

the-cancun-Sun-facebook-group

Subscribe to our Latest Posts

Enter your email address to subscribe to The Cancun Sun’s latest breaking news affecting travelers, straight to your inbox.