We come here mainly to relax at Playa Norte which is considered one of the best beaches in the world , but also to snorkel and dive in the 2nd largest reef in the world !
1. Garrafon Park
The Garrafon Natural Park is a must in Isla Mujeres because it offers both a place of relaxation and several activities.
It should be understood that the beaches of Isla Mujeres are quickly overrun and Garrafon offers a much quieter and more exclusive alternative.
It is a small private beach where you can access by paying an entrance fee of 90$usd which includes deckchair, parasol, shower and toilet.
It is the ideal place for snorkeling because Garrafon is part of the longest coral reef in the northern hemisphere and is home to a rich ecosystem.
It is also possible to go kayaking , zip line (there are 3!), enjoy the swimming pool facing the sea and rest in the hammocks between the palm trees.
An interesting option is to take this “all-inclusive” excursion to El Garrafon Park from Cancun which includes the return ferry, breakfast on the boat, open bar on the boat for 18+, lunch on site.
In addition of course to access to all activities! To book here:
2. Garrafon de Castilla
Right next to Parc Garrafon is its cheaper, much less crowded and quieter version: Garrafon de Castilla
You don’t come here for a luxury stay, but it’s the perfect option for a cheap day out in Isla Mujeres!
It is a simpler beach club, but offers the same beautiful water for swimming or snorkeling, as well as an on-site restaurant and the basic facilities (deckchair, lockers, showers).
3. Explore Punta Sur
South of Isla Mujeres is Punta Sur , the highest point on the Yucatan Peninsula .
This is a must-see spot in Isla Mujeres for its magnificent sea views, but also for its Sculpture Garden and the ancient temple dedicated to Ixchel , the Mayan goddess of the moon and fertility.
And since we are far from the beaches here, there are a lot fewer tourists!
It can be reached through the Garrafon Natural Park , taking a pretty path facing the Caribbean Sea.
With its white sand, calm, warm and shallow water, we quickly understand why!
Indeed the water is so shallow that you can walk 200m in the water without having the water above your waist.
It is a 1km public beach with different sections, umbrellas, bars, but also a quieter section with restaurants which is the ideal place for a family trip to Isla Mujeres .
It must be recognized that the beach is a victim of its notoriety and that it fills up quickly in high season, but it is also one of the widest beaches in Mexico (100m) so you don’t feel cramped like elsewhere.
4. Take advantage of less touristy beaches
Playa Norte is the best known beach in Isla Mujeres , but there are others worth seeing like Playa El Pescador, Playa Tiburon, Playa Paraiso, Playa Na Balam, etc.
At Playa Pancholo the sea is choppy and that’s why there’s hardly anyone around. It’s great for sunbathing on the beach, but not for swimming!
5. Sunbathe at Kin Ha Park
-Miguel Hidalgo street : it is the main street of Isla Mujeres which is 3km long, there are shops, many restaurants and bars, live music. You can walk there day and night without any problem!
-See the colors of Isla Mujeres : and the island has no shortage of them! Between its street art and its many colorful houses (special mention to Casa Crayola), it’s a feast for the eyes.
-Walk the malecon: the perfect place to walk from north to south of the island in 40 minutes along the sea. Along the walk, there are several points of interest such as the statue “la Trigue ñ a ” and especially the colorful sign of Isla Mujeres (at the intersection of Calle Abasolo) which is the perfect spot to take a photo.