10 Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Are you planning a trip to Isla Mujeres, Mexico? This incredible island has so much more than just paradise beaches, and is just a short boat ride away from Cancún!

We visited for a few days and, let us tell you, it's very hard not to have a great time here. So let's go straight into the 10 best things to do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico!

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #1: Rent a Golf Cart and Explore the Island

When you visit Isla Mujeres, Mexico, you will notice that it may not be a huge island, but it definitely needs a way of moving around. A golf cart can not only be a practical option to visit every spot in the island, but also a fun experience!

There are plenty of companies all around the places that will rent you a golf cart. They even come with cup holders in case you are doing sunday funday.

As people who don't like to get ripped off, we always try to give advice on how to avoid overprices. The solution is simple, just walk around a bit and stay away from companies that are in the main street, or next to the port.

These ones may be the most accessible ones, but definitely not the cheapest (nor the best). Walk a block or two in and you will notice equally good places with prices that range between 10% and 20% lower.

We rented ours in Garrafón de Castilla. This place that has been around for decades and it's always good in service and quality. Also, to keep in mind, they ALWAYS have availability, since they have at least 100 carts in storage.

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #2: Visit an Under-Water Museum

If there's one thing we're always seeking it's unique experiences, and let us tell you that Isla Mujeres, Mexico has one of them. MUSA is a great adventure to visit (has 12 galleries with over 1,300 pieces of art to see). But what we love the most is that it's also conscious about the environment.

The project is meant to do two things. On one hand, to discharge the accumulated impact of nearly 800,000 visiting tourists each year in the natural reef of the National Marine Park. On the other hand, its purpose is to increase overall biomass of the reef system and habitat areas for marine life to colonize.

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #3: Enjoy Nature at Its Best in Punta Sur

In the very south of the island, you will find an ecological park with beaches, a lighthouse, and striking sculptures on a path with views of the sea.

As you walk through the path, you will notice that it takes you up and down, left and right. You can even find a lower path where waves reach, which may sound scary but it really isn't.

Also, there are a few food trucks that sell local churros, filled with everything you can imagine. It may not have a lot to do with nature, but they are so good that we strongly recommend not to skip on them!

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #4: Stay in a Teepee (& have some cool classes at the beach)

If you haven't heard of Selina until now, it's time for you to know. Selina is a worldwide chain of hostels with a boutique touch. They have 84 locations around the world, and they always go above & beyond with their service and design (we don't work with them, we just really, really like them).

We have stayed in several locations with them, but the one in Isla Mujeres, Mexico got our attention. Let us tell you why. The main difference about this accommodation is that they offer you modern Teepees to stay at. Instead of the original ones, (wooden sticks and animal fur), these ones are little wooden cabins with a triangular shape. 

They're fully equipped, and the main area of the hostel leads straight into the sea.

Something that we believe is a game-changer is that they also offer free classes next to the beach. Anything from zumba to yoga, aero box and many more. There's also a nice pool, co-work spaces, and a restaurant.

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The design of the whole place just gives you a nice boutique-beachy vibe that makes you want to stay. 

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #5: Zipline over the Caribbean sea

 Another great activity you can enjoy in the island is ziplining with the views of the beautiful Caribbean sea. In this case, our recommendation is to head towards Garrafón Reef Park. They have everything set up & ready for you to fly over Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

The best thing is that the park also has a lot more activities you can enjoy. This include kayak, Temascal (a natural steam room meant to heal the body), pools, snorkeling and even a "challenge tower". In this last one, you can climb to the top following the holes carved in the tower.

This is definitely a great spot for activities when you visit Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #6: Get an Adrenaline Rush by Swimming with Whale Sharks

I don't know about you, but sharks scare us a little bit. Nevertheless, this experience will test your limits and show you a whole new world of adventure.

Every year, Whale Sharks gather just north of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, to take advantage of the abundant fish spawning grounds. This opportunity let courageous adventurers the opportunity to experience something beyond interesting.

The only thing you need to keep in mind is that this doesn't happen year-round. You would have to visit the island in the summer (between June and September). Unfortunately, this is the only period of time where sharks can be spotted.

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #7: Help Baby Turtles Go Into the Sea

Have you ever seen videos of turtles trying to make it to the sea after they come out of their egg-shells? If you're an animal lover, want to help some friends or just enjoy interesting experiences, you can't miss on this. Tortugranja ("Turtle-farm" in Spanish) is a sanctuary for turtles. 

A local noticed years ago that the turtles population was decreasing very fast due to predators eating the eggs. So he decided to take action and create a safe space for turtles to grow before going to the ocean.

If you visit Isla Mujeres, Mexico from May to October, you may be eligible for the turtle release program. This is a unique program where you can guide baby sea turtles to the ocean for the first time.

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #8: Make New Friends at Avenida Miguel Hidalgo

If you like pedestrian streets, souvenir shops, good restaurants, and a great vibe, then this place is for you. Avenida Miguel Hidalgo is located in the heart of the island.

From the moment you start your tour in the main square, you will listen to live music (especially at night). You'll also see the coming and going of people who want to entertain themselves in a tropical and relaxed atmosphere.

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #9: Stay at a Unique Hotel: Casa Caracol

If you have following us for a while, you know by now that we usually don't recommend fancy places. Instead, we always seek either convenient OR unique places. 

And let us tell you that this is 100% leaning towards the second category. Casa Caracol ("Shell House" in Spanish) started with a simple conversation between two brothers back in the 90's. “Imagine living in a house shaped like a shell” was the spark that led to this incredible piece of architecture.

Nowadays, it's a luxurious residence where people can stay, and plan events. Prices vary depending on the time of the year. By the time this article is being written, 2021, prices go from $200 to $300 USD per night. The highest price is due to the holidays season.

Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico #10: Catch the Sunset and Sunrise

One of the great parts of being an island is that you can catch both the sunrise and the sunset! Isla Mujeres, Mexico is known for having some pretty incredible sky porn. Our favorite spot for watching the sunrise was right from the comfort of our hotel, Selina.

When it comes to sunset, you will want to head to the South part of the island, or anywhere along the beach on "Joyxee Island" (which is just part of Isla Mujeres, that is lined with cool resorts).

We loved visiting the island. It may not be the biggest, but it definitely holds a lot more than people expect. When you visit Isla Mujeres, Mexico, you will find it hard not to fall in love with it.

If your plans for Mexico are wider, feel free to check out all of the other Mexico travel guides we have written for you. This way, you can know exactly how to plan your visit through this diverse country.

Looking to book your next trip? Let us help! With Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning you can now explore more and spend less. Want to learn just how? Take a look at some of our travel planning services.

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