Looking for the ultimate Isla Holbox Mexico travel guide? You’ve come to the right place!
Picture yourself relaxing on beautiful, untouched beaches, swimming in clear turquoise waters, and enjoying the chill atmosphere of this hidden gem in Mexico.
Located on the north coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Isla Holbox is your perfect getaway where time slows down.
Whether you want to snorkel with gentle whale sharks or watch breathtaking sunsets, there’s something for everyone here.
Join me as I share the best places to eat, exciting things to do, and helpful tips to make your Isla Holbox trip truly special. Let’s dive in!
Isla Holbox Mexico Travel Guide: Introduction
Isla Holbox, just a few hours north of Cancun, is a small and incredibly charming island.
It’s part of the Yum Bala Biosphere Reserve and is separated from the mainland by a lagoon that’s home to flamingos and pelicans.
In the Mayan language, the island’s name means “black hole,” likely referring to the lagoon’s dark color.
It’s often described as a place where time stands still, and I totally agree! Even though more tourists are discovering it, Isla Holbox still feels authentic and unique.
People come here for the shallow, crystal-clear waters, soft sandy beaches, and the opportunity to dive with sharks during the season.
A fun fact: cars are not allowed on Isla Holbox! This makes it easy to explore the island on foot or by bike, adding to its relaxed vibe that perfectly matches the colorful houses and sandy streets.
Isla Holbox Mexico Travel Guide: Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Isla Holbox is during the dry season, which runs from November to April on the Mayan Riviera. Keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so you might find higher hotel prices and larger crowds.
In May, the weather gets hotter, while December tends to be cooler, making it a comfortable time to explore. It’s best to avoid September and October because of the hurricane risks during those months.
If you want to see whale sharks, plan your trip between mid-May and mid-September. Just remember, this is also when the rainy season starts, which could mean more seaweed on the beaches.
Isla Holbox Mexico Travel Guide: How to Get There
By Plane
The quickest way to get to Isla Holbox is by private plane from places like Cancun airport. However, this can be quite expensive, with rental prices starting at several hundred dollars for a group.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider taking the bus, using organized transport, or renting a car. You’ll then take a ferry from the small town of Chiquila to reach the island.
By Bus
The bus ride from Cancun to Chiquila takes about two and a half hours, while from Tulum, it’s a bit longer at three and a half hours.
ADO, the most recommended bus company in Mexico, makes it easy with online booking.
The fare is around 360 Mexican pesos from Cancun to Chiquila and about 515 Mexican pesos from Tulum to Chiquila.
By Car
For larger groups, renting a car can be a practical choice. It’s best to book in advance through Rentalcars.com, with standard prices starting at around 250 Mexican pesos per day.
Hertz is a reliable rental option, and you’ll find private parking spots near Chiquila Harbor, costing about 100 Mexican pesos for 24 hours.
By Ferry
Ferries from Chiquila to Isla Holbox run every thirty minutes from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, so you’ll have plenty of chances to hop over to the island.
You can choose between two ferry companies: 9 Hermanos, which departs on the hour, and Holbox Express, which leaves at half past the hour.
As for ticket prices, it’s pretty reasonable—200 Mexican pesos for kids and 300 Mexican pesos for adults. You can grab your tickets right at the port before you board, making it super easy.
Once you arrive on Isla Holbox, you’ll find that only electric cars serve as taxis at the ferry terminal.
Just a heads up: the island is divided into zones, so taxi fares will depend on where your hotel is located within those zones.
Where to Stay on Isla Holbox
On Isla Holbox, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious to budget-friendly.
The island features small, cozy places instead of big resorts, giving you a more intimate experience.
You can choose from standard rooms with sea views or charming bungalows. If you’re up for an adventure and want to get closer to nature, there’s even the option to stay overnight in a tent!
Prices for accommodations start at around 500 Mexican pesos, so there’s something for every budget.
It’s a great idea to book a place right on the beach, ensuring you have a wonderful stay no matter where you choose to rest your head!
Casa Las Tortugas Petit Beach Hotel & Spa
If you’re looking for a great place to stay, check out Casa Las Tortugas Petit Beach Hotel & Spa. I had a fantastic experience there.
It’s right on the main beach, and the rooms and apartments are beautifully decorated with amazing sea views.
They have a lovely outdoor swimming pool, a Turkish bath, and a hot tub where you can relax. Plus, you can start your day with morning yoga classes!
Breakfast is served at a cozy beach restaurant that turns into a fancy dining spot in the evening. It’s such a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the Isla Holbox vibes!
Isla Holbox Mexico Travel Guide: Best Things to Do
Isla Holbox is famous for its many captivating attractions that will keep you entertained. Here’s a list of must-do activities during your stay on the island.
Unwind on the Beach
One of the best things to do on the island is to relax on its pristine beaches. The sandy shores, with their white expanse, are paired with shallow, crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming.
If you love snorkeling, there are plenty of opportunities to discover the underwater wonders. Spend your day lounging on Playa Holbox, the island’s most popular beach, while sipping on fresh coconut water.
As evening falls, don’t miss the chance to head to Punta Cocos Beach to catch a stunning sunset. It’s a perfect way to end your day!
Cycle Around
Another must-do activity on the island is to embark on a bike ride. There’s no better way to explore the beauty of Isla Holbox than on two wheels.
Thanks to its compact size, getting around is super easy, and it’s nearly impossible to get lost.
You can rent bicycles at several spots in the island’s center. The rental cost is 35 Mexican pesos per hour or 250 Mexican pesos for the whole day. So grab a bike and start your adventure!
Swim with Whale Sharks
Undoubtedly, the main highlight of Isla Holbox is the chance to swim with the largest fish in the world, the whale shark.
Isla Holbox is one of the few places globally where you can see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The whale shark season runs from mid-May to mid-September.
To enjoy this unique experience, you’ll need to join an organized guided tour.
A full-day trip with fellow tourists costs 3,300 Mexican pesos, while a private excursion will set you back 19,800 Mexican pesos.
Witness the Sunsets
Another must-do on Isla Holbox is savoring the stunning sunsets. The island’s location allows the sun to set directly over the sea, creating a breathtaking view.
In my opinion, the best spots to take in these magical sunsets are the pier, the Mandarina restaurant, and Punta Cocos beach on the west side of the island.
Explore Three Islands
If you’re ready to take a break from sunbathing, consider taking a boat trip to the three islands. It’s a fantastic way to stay active and connect with wildlife.
On this excursion, you’ll visit Bird Island (Isla Pájaros), where you can spot flamingos and pelicans, as well as the uninhabited Passion Island (Isla Pasión).
You can wrap up the day with a refreshing swim at Yalahau Cenote.
You can book the tour in the island’s center or right on the beach, with typical costs around 950 Mexican pesos.
Witness Bioluminescence
One of the most enchanting experiences on the island is witnessing bioluminescence at night.
This magical phenomenon, created by microscopic phytoplankton, lights up the water with a beautiful blue glow.
You can enjoy the bioluminescence on your own or join an organized trip to see it. The best time to catch this stunning sight is from April to November. It’s truly a moment to remember!
Appreciate the Street Art
Another fun activity on the island is taking a stroll along the trail of local murals, which are plentiful in this vibrant community.
The brightly colored murals, created by talented artists from around the world, add a unique vibe to the local buildings and tell fascinating stories.
One standout mural is a child’s face painted by Mexican artist Jace Jano, which is truly captivating. Exploring these murals is a great way to soak in the island’s artistic spirit.
Experience a Kitesurfing Lesson
Isla Holbox is a fantastic place to kickstart your kitesurfing journey.
It’s known for its perfect conditions for beginners, featuring shallow waters, a wide coastline, and gentle winds, making it ideal for learning the sport. You can find kitesurfing classes available year-round.
KukulKite is the most popular kitesurfing school on the island, offering a range of courses. Prices start at 120 dollars for a two-hour group class and go up to 650 dollars for a nine-hour private lesson.
Isla Holbox Mexico Travel Guide: Best Places to Eat
Isla Holbox isn’t just about sandy beaches and charming hotels; it’s also, and above all, about delicious local cuisine. Here’s a list of places I recommend for enjoying exceptional food on the island.
ROOTS Pizza a Leña
As you might expect, the island is famous for its outstanding seafood, with lobster being the star attraction.
The most iconic dish here is lobster pizza. Locals say the best lobster pizza can be found at ROOTS Pizza a Leña, where you’ll find over a dozen varieties of artisanal wood-fired pizza.
In addition to pizza, they offer a range of other Italian dishes, and you can also enjoy quality mezcal.
Sample prices: lobster pizza 600 pesos, lasagna bolognese 219 pesos, craft beer 85 pesos. Open daily from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM.
Holbox Foodie Market
Another excellent dining option on the island is the Holbox Foodie Market. Featuring five distinct restaurants, each specializing in unique offerings, you’ll have plenty of choices.
You can opt for Japanese cuisine with delectable sushi, savor Mexican flavors with delicious seafood tacos, or indulge in Italian treats like panini and homemade noodles.
Plus, the market is famous for serving the best burgers and crispy chicken wings on the island.
Sample prices: fish taco 40 pesos, shrimp taco 50 pesos. Open daily from 1:00 PM to 10:30 AM.
Taco Queto
If you’re a fan of tacos, you’ve got to visit Taco Queto!
This spot is super popular with both locals and tourists, and they serve up some seriously delicious Mexican food at great prices.
Don’t miss out on their taco al pastor with marinated grilled pork and the tasty chorizo taco.
And if you’re feeling hungry, the classic burrito is definitely worth a try!
Sample prices: taco al pastor 24 pesos, steak taco 28 pesos, burrito el pastor 142 pesos. Open daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Restaurante & Beach Club Mandarina
If you’re in the mood for a beachfront experience, you’ll want to check out Mandarina restaurant.
You can kick off your day with a delicious breakfast while gazing at the sea, grab a quick lunch, and then enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner with your toes in the sand.
The local chef does an amazing job of mixing flavors from Mediterranean, South American, and Caribbean cuisines, making every meal special.
Plus, they have a great selection of wines to complement your dining experience.
Sample prices: eggs and bacon 180 pesos, chilaquiles 190 pesos, pasta with prawns 450 pesos, steak 480 pesos, grilled fish 1.20 pesos per gram. Open daily from 07:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
Luuma
In the evening, don’t miss out on a starlit dinner at the charming Luuma.
This place has the perfect vibe for enjoying quality time with friends while relaxing to chillout music.
Located right in front of Casa las Tortugas hotel, Luuma serves some of the best cocktails and snacks I’ve ever had in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Each dish is made with fresh, local ingredients, giving it a delightful and unique flavor.
Sample prices: empanada 80 pesos, Luuma Colada 180 pesos. Open daily from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Note that they’re closed from September 15 to October 31.
Useful Tips
Wifi
Most hotels and restaurants on the island offer internet access, but it can be slow and unreliable.
For a more stable connection, consider getting a local prepaid Telcel SIM card, available at locations marked with the Telcel logo.
Money
There are more ATMs on the island now, but it’s still smart to carry cash since not all places accept cards.
ATMs can run out of cash, and transaction fees are common. Both dollars and pesos are accepted, but using pesos is usually cheaper.
Safety
Isla Holbox is generally safe, making it great for solo travelers.
Still, take basic precautions: avoid walking alone after dark, don’t carry valuables, and stay away from drugs.
Be careful while biking on uneven roads, and make sure to stay hydrated.
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Isla Holbox Mexico Travel Guide: Summary
In summary, Isla Holbox on the Yucatán Peninsula is the perfect getaway for those looking to escape the everyday hustle and unwind.
With its stunning beaches, pristine nature, delicious cuisine, and fascinating attractions, there are plenty of reasons to explore this enchanting Mexican island.
I hope my Isla Holbox Mexico travel guide inspired you to plan your vacation in this beautiful destination!
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