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Untouched beaches, turquoise sea, and a relaxed atmosphere – welcome to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s hidden gem. This intimate tropical island is located on the north coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and is one of those places where time slows down. Discover the best things to do, from sipping coconut water on the beach to snorkeling with whale sharks, admiring the sunsets, or exploring the island by bike. Uncover the top places to eat and find out how to get the most out of your Isla Holbox experience with this comprehensive Isla Holbox travel guide.
Table of Contents
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: Introduction
Isla Holbox, just a few hours north of Cancun, is a small yet incredibly charming islet.
It’s part of the Yum Bala Biosphere Reserve and is separated from the mainland by a lagoon home to various birds, such as flamingos and pelicans.
In the Mayan language, the island’s name, meaning “black hole,” possibly refers to the lagoon’s dark hue.
Often described as a place where time stands still, I wholeheartedly agree. Despite the growing number of tourists, Isla Holbox maintains its authenticity.
Visitors are drawn to the shallow, crystalline waters, soft sandy beaches, and, during the season, the opportunity to dive with sharks.
Notably, cars are prohibited on Isla Holbox, but this isn’t an issue. The island is small enough to explore on foot or by bike. The absence of cars contributes to the island’s relaxed ambiance, blending seamlessly with its colorful houses and sandy streets.
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: Best Time to Visit Isla Holbox
The optimal time to explore Isla Holbox is during the dry season, spanning from November to April on the Mayan Riviera.
However, this period tends to attract crowds, leading to increased hotel prices. May brings the hottest days, while December experiences cooler temperatures. It’s advisable to steer clear of September and October due to hurricane risks.
For those eager to witness whale sharks, the ideal window is between mid-May and mid-September. Nonetheless, be aware that this timeframe coincides with the rainy season, potentially leading to the appearance of seaweed on the beaches.
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: How to Get to Isla Holbox?
The most expedient route to the island is by private plane, departing from Cancun airport, among others. However, this option tends to be the priciest, with rental prices starting from several hundred dollars for multiple passengers.
For a more economical journey, opt for the bus, organized transport, or a rented car, followed by a ferry crossing departing from the port in the small town of Chiquila.
The bus ride from Cancun to Chiquila takes around two and a half hours, while from Tulum, it’s slightly longer at three and a half hours. ADO, the most recommended bus company in Mexico, offers online booking for added convenience.
The fare from Cancun to Chiquila is approximately 300 Mexican pesos, and from Tulum to Chiquila, it’s 250 Mexican pesos.
For larger groups, renting a car might be a practical choice. Booking in advance through Rentalcars.com is advisable, with standard prices starting around 300 Mexican pesos per day.
Hertz is a reliable option, and there are private parking places near Chiquila Harbor, costing around 100 Mexican pesos for 24 hours.
Ferries from Chiquila to Isla Holbox depart every thirty minutes from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM, with two companies to choose from. 9 Hermanos departs on the hour, while Holbox Express leaves at half past the hour.
Ticket prices range from 180 (children) to 220 Mexican pesos (adults) and can be purchased at the port before departure.
On the island, electric cars, not standard taxis, wait for tourists at the ferry terminal. The island is divided into zones, and taxi fares depend on your hotel’s location within these zones.
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: Where to Stay on Isla Holbox?
On Isla Holbox, you’ll discover a variety of intriguing accommodation options, ranging from luxurious to more budget–friendly.
The island is characterized by small, intimate establishments, avoiding large resorts. Guests can choose from standard rooms with sea views to atmospheric bungalows.
For those seeking adventure and a closer connection with nature, there’s even the option to spend the night in a tent.
Accommodation prices start at around 450 Mexican pesos, ensuring options for every budget. Opting for a facility directly on the beach is advisable, promising a satisfying experience no matter your choice.
I recommend considering Casa Las Tortugas for your stay. Situated right on the main beach, it offers well-furnished rooms and apartments with sea views.
On-site amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, Turkish bath, and hot tub. Start your day with morning yoga classes, and enjoy breakfast at the atmospheric beach restaurant, transforming into an elegant dining spot in the evening.
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: Best Things to Do on Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is renowned for numerous captivating attractions that will undoubtedly ensure you stay entertained. Here is a list of must-do activities during your stay on the island.
Unwind on the Beach
Undoubtedly, one of the most enjoyable activities on the island is relaxing on its pristine beaches.
The sandy shores, with their white expanse, are complemented by shallow and crystalline waters, creating an ideal setting for bathing.
Snorkel enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to explore the underwater wonders. Spend your day leisurely sipping fresh coconut water and reclining on Playa Holbox, the island’s most popular beach.
As the evening sets in, make sure to head to Punta Cocos Beach to witness a breathtaking sunset.
Cycle Around
Another essential activity on the island is to embark on a bike ride. There is arguably no better way to explore this beautiful island than on two wheels.
Given its compact size, navigating the island is exceptionally easy, and losing your way is virtually impossible.
Bicycles are available for rent at numerous locations in the island’s center. The rental cost is 35 Mexican pesos per hour, or 250 Mexican pesos for the entire day.
Swim with Whale Sharks
Undoubtedly, the main highlight of the island is the opportunity to swim with the largest fish in the world, the whale shark.
Isla Holbox stands out as one of the few places globally where you can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The whale shark season commences in mid-May and extends until mid-September.
Participating in an organized guided tour is mandatory for this unique experience. The cost for a full-day trip with fellow tourists is 3,300 Mexican pesos, while opting for a private excursion amounts to 19,800 Mexican pesos.
Witness the Sunsets
Another essential activity on the island is savoring the picturesque sunsets. Thanks to the island’s positioning, the sun sets directly over the sea, enhancing the entire spectacle.
In my opinion, the optimal locations to appreciate these magical sunsets include the pier, the Mandarina restaurant, and the beach of Punta Cocos situated in the west of the island.
Explore Three Islands
If you’ve had your fill of sunbathing, consider embarking on a boat trip to the three islands. It’s an excellent way to spend time actively and connect with wildlife.
During the excursion, you’ll visit the Bird Island (Isla Pájaros), where you can observe flamingos and pelicans, as well as the uninhabited Passion Island (Isla Pasión). Conclude the day with a refreshing swim at the Yalahau Cenote.
The tour can be booked in the center or directly on the beach and typically costs around 800 Mexican pesos.
Witness Bioluminescence
One of the most captivating experiences on the island is observing bioluminescence at night.
This enchanting phenomenon, caused by microscopic phytoplankton, manifests as glowing blue water.
You can marvel at the bioluminescence independently or join an organized trip. The optimal time to witness this phenomenon is from April to November.
Appreciate the Street Art
Another worthwhile activity on the island is strolling along the trail of local murals, which abound in this vibrant community.
The brilliantly colorful murals are the creations of renowned artists from around the world, lending a unique atmosphere to local buildings while simultaneously narrating captivating stories.
One of the most captivating murals on the island is a child’s face painted by Mexican artist Jace Jano.
Experience a Kitesurfing Lesson
Isla Holbox provides an excellent setting to kickstart your kitesurfing journey.
Renowned for its ideal conditions for learning the sport, including shallow waters, a spacious coastline, and gentle wind conditions, the island offers kitesurfing classes year-round.
KukulKite stands out as the most popular kitesurfing school on the island. Course prices range from 130 dollars for a three-hour group course to 650 dollars for a nine-hour private course.
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: Best Places to Eat on Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox isn’t just about sandy beaches and charming hotels; it’s also, and above all, about delicious local cuisine. Below, you’ll find a list of places I recommend for enjoying exceptional food on the island.
ROOTS Pizza a Leña
As you might expect, the island is renowned primarily for its exceptional seafood, with the undisputed star being lobster.
The most iconic dish on the island is the lobster pizza. According to locals, the best lobster pizza can be found at ROOTS Pizza a Leña. The establishment boasts over a dozen varieties of artisanal wood-fired pizza. Apart from pizza, you can enjoy various other Italian dishes here, along with sipping on quality mezcal.
Sample prices: lobster pizza 600 pesos, lasagne 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. Boasting five distinct restaurants, each specializing in unique offerings, you have a variety of choices.
Opt for Japanese cuisine with delectable sushi, savor Mexican flavors with delightful seafood tacos, or indulge in Italian treats like panini and homemade noodles.
Additionally, the market is known 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
Enthusiasts of delectable tacos should make their way to Taco Queto, a popular spot among both locals and tourists.
This establishment serves authentic Mexican cuisine at a reasonable price. Ensure you sample the local taco al pastor with marinated grilled pork and the chorizo taco.
Additionally, trying the classic burrito is also highly recommended.
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.
Mahi Holbox
In my opinion, Mahi Holbox restaurant offers the finest seafood on the island. Distinguished by its extraordinary ambiance and unique culinary offerings, this establishment sets itself apart.
The menu seamlessly blends Mexican Pacific cuisine with traditional Caribbean flavors. Make sure to indulge in the specialty known as Agasajo, along with a toast featuring smoked marlin.
Additionally, consider trying one of their refreshing ceviches.
Sample prices: seafood taco 60 pesos, fish tostada 110 pesos, shrimp ceviche 260 pesos. Open daily from 12.00 PM to 3.00 AM.
Restaurante & Beach Club Mandarina
If you’re seeking a beachfront ambiance, head to the Mandarina restaurant. Start your day with a breakfast overlooking the sea, enjoy a quick lunch during the day, and savor an exquisite candlelit dinner in the evening with the sand beneath your feet.
The local chef skillfully blends the flavors of Mediterranean, South American, and Caribbean cuisines. Alongside delectable food, the restaurant boasts an extensive selection of wines.
Sample prices: eggs and bacon 180 pesos, chilaquiles 190 pesos, pasta with prawns 450 pesos, steak 480 pesos, grilled fish 1.20 pesos / gram. Open daily from 07.30 AM to 11.00 PM.
Luuma
In the evening, make sure to indulge in a starlit dinner at the enchanting Luuma. Luuma provides the perfect ambiance for spending quality time with friends while enjoying chillout music.
Situated in front of the Casa las Tortugas hotel, the restaurant serves some of the finest cocktails and snacks I’ve had the pleasure of trying in the Yucatan Peninsula. Every dish is crafted with local ingredients, resulting in a delightful and amazing taste.
Sample prices: empanada 80 pesos, Luuma Colada 180 pesos. Open daily from 5.00 PM to 11.00 PM.
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: Additional Travel Tips
Wifi
While most hotels and restaurants on the island offer internet access, it tends to be slow and unreliable.
For a more stable connection, it’s advisable to obtain a local prepaid Telcel SIM card. You can purchase this card at various locations, typically identified by the Telcel logo at the entrance.
Money
While there are more ATMs on the island nowadays, it’s still wise to carry cash, as not all establishments accept card payments.
Additionally, ATMs may occasionally run out of cash, and transaction fees are common. Both dollars and pesos are accepted, but using the local currency is generally more cost-effective.
Safety
Isla Holbox is generally safe, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers. However, it’s essential to take basic precautions, such as avoiding walking alone after dark, refraining from carrying valuable items, and steering clear of drugs.
Exercise caution while biking, as the roads can be uneven, and remember to stay well-hydrated.
Isla Holbox Travel Guide: Summary
In summary, Isla Holbox is an ideal escape from the routine, offering a tranquil holiday experience. With beautiful beaches, pristine nature, delectable cuisine, and intriguing attractions, the island beckons visitors. I trust that my Isla Holbox travel guide has proven valuable to those choosing to spend their vacation on this enchanting island.
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