Looking for the Best of Isla Mujeres? Some people plan their vacation around Cancún and use Isla Mujeres as a side trip. But Isla Mujeres, in the Yucatan Peninsula, is a destination all in its own, and it’s generally quieter and more affordable than the options you get across the bay.
Yes, you will find a few ticky-tacky tourist shops, but folks still get around by golf cart and the crushed-coral beaches are undeniably lovely. As for the calm turquoise water of Isla Mujeres, well, you really just have to see it for yourself.
There’s just enough here to keep you entertained: snorkel or scuba dive, visit a turtle farm or put on your sunglasses and settle in with that book you’ve been dying to finish. Come sunset, there are plenty of dining options, and the nightlife scene moves at a relaxed island pace. Isla Mujeres Vacations is the perfect beach vacation. Start planning your trip now. For more information on the Yucatan Peninsula visit here, or visit all the wonderful beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Isla Mujeres Weather – When to Visit
High season here extends from late November (American Thanksgiving) straight through Easter. Other months qualify as low season, and prices may be cut in half. Some of the best deals can be found from late October to mid-November, after the rainy season has passed but before the crowds have arrived.
Isla enjoys its best weather between November and May, when temperatures usually hover around 80°F. June, July, and August are the hottest and most humid months, with daytime highs routinely over 95°F.
A few festivals and holidays are worth keeping in mind while you’re planning your trip: Carnaval in either February or March (the week before Lent); the Sol a Sol Regatta in late April; Founder’s Day on August 17; the Day of the Virgin de la Caridad del Cobre, patron saint of local fishermen, on September 9; the Day of the Dead from October 31 to November 2; and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception from December 1 to 8.
Best Isla Mujeres Beaches
Playa Lancheros
Playa LancherosPlaya Lancheros is a small beach on the southwest coast of Isla Mujeres, best known for a seafood restaurant of the same name that is set on the beach. Meal times is when the crowds come in, so vacationers looking for a secluded each-going experience can find it here early in the morning and in the middle of the afternoon.
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Playa Pancholo
Playa PancholoSet on the north tip of Isla Mujeres, Playa Pancholo. The beach isn’t especially popular, despite it’s beauty and cool waters, but those who do visit certainly enjoy beach combing, sunbathing, and swimming. Beware of the current however, because there are days when it can be pretty strong.
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Playa Norte
Playa NorteOnce you reach Playa Norte, the island’s main beach, you won’t want to leave. Its warm, shallow waters are sapphire blue with crushed coral on the beach. Unlike most of the island’s east coast, Playa Norte is safe for swimming and the water is only chest deep even far from the shore.
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Playa Pescador
Located on the west coast of Isla Mujeres, Playa Pescador is a beach where you won’t have any trouble claiming a spot in the sand for a day of sun and sand. Despite the beach’s apparent beauty, it remains an uncrowded gem. There are no facilities here, but there are nearby restaurants.
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Playa Garrafon
Playa GarrafonLocated on the southern side of the island of Isla Mujeres, You might want even if you aren’t staying particularly close by. Those of you who might prefer a beach that’s a little less crowded, but still fun and active, should give Playa Garrafon a try. It’s not the type of beach that gets packed every day, but it’s also not completely secluded.
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Best Isla Mujeres Restaurants
Lola Valentina $11 – 30
Lola Valentina restaurant has become an island favorite for its luxurious breakfasts and brunches. Top menu items include wonderful French toast options, as well as breakfast cocktails and fresh juices. Many of the breakfast items also have a vegetarian or vegan option available. Lunch and dinner have Mexican fusion cuisine like stuffed chili poblano and red snapper in hollandaise sauce, or you can just stop by for evening drinks at the street-side bar. Telephone: 47-936-49-725 Web: Lola Valentina.
Javi’s Cantina $11 – 30
Get the catch of the day with the Parmesan crust and tamarind sauce, and their delicious sides such as garlic mashed potatoes – comfort food meets island fare! Wash it down with a signature tamarind margarita to tie it all together! Telephone: 52-998-205-3003 Web: Javi’s Cantina
La Lomita Under $10
This beautiful little restaurant just south of the busy downtown is known for their savory and perfectly tender bean soup served in a clay pot. Seafood lovers, be sure to get the relleno de mariscos, a fresh poblano, roasted and stuffed with various seafood in a creamy sauce and baked to perfection. Telephone: 52-998-939-2331 Web: La Lomita.
Bastos Under $10
You can’t go wrong with the quesadillas from Bastos. Meat eaters, go get the arrachera! If you are in the mood for a perfectly cooked piece of steak, seasoned just right, the arrachera stands out in either tacos or quesadillas. The rajas y crema is perfect if you are leaning toward a meatless dish. Telephone: 52-998-142-5617 Web: Bastos
El Veradero $11 – 30
This popular spot along the lagoon fills up fast on Sundays, when the yachts dock while folks enjoy dinner and live salsa music. The Cuban specialties are perfected, including Ropa Vieja, whole fried fish and tostones. Swing in a hammock while you wait for your food, or get up and dance to the music! Telephone: 52-998-877-1600 Web: El Veradero
Best Nightlife
Buho’s
From 10 am to midnight, you can grab a swing or hammock, order a cold drink, and let the hours roll by at Buho’s palapa beach bar. You can also rent a Buho’s lounge chair on Playa Norte, which includes a free nonalcoholic beverage. Telephone: 52-998-877-0301 Web: Buho’s.
Café del Mar
Designed by renowned architect Lluís Güell, Café del Mar is an Ibiza-inspired beach bar that plays chill-out music by day and has live music at night. The fish tacos are a perfect cerveza accompaniment. Try to stop by for the gorgeous sunset. Telephone: 52-998-848-8473 Web: Café del Mar.
Jax Bar & Grill
When you’re looking for live music, cold beer, good bar food, and a satellite TV that’s always tuned to the current game, make tracks for Jax. It is open daily, 9 am to 11 pm. Telephone: 52-998-887-1218 Web: Jax Bar & Grill.
La Adelita Tequileria
Connoisseurs can sample more than 150 varieties of tequila and cigars at this popular spot. Telephone: 52-998-877-0528 Web: La Adelita Tequileria.
Bobo’s Bar & Grill
This is a great spot to get tasty food and drinks for a great price. Everything on the menu is great, especially the fresh fish and chips. You can come down during Happy Hour between 4-6pm to take advantage of drink specials and a pound of chicken wings. Bobo’s also broadcasts sporting events so you won’t have to miss anything while you’re on vacation. Telephone: 52-998-274-0055 Web: Bobo’s Bar & Grill
Best Isla Mujeres Hotels
Wow I really want to visit here and many other places on your site. You make them look and sound amazing. I’m not really a beach-holiday kind of gall as I get a bit bored lying in the sun too long and get itchy feet, but it sounds like there is a lot to do here that could keep me occupied.
Do you think this would be a good destination with children – or are there others you would recommend above this one? Just interested as it’s such a big world out there and there are so many possibilities. Thanks again. Gail
There is plenty to do here for kids, and it is very kid friendly. I think your family would have a blast. Yes, there are a ton of possibilities, with a lot of places that are kid friendly. This is just one 🙂 Thanks for visiting Isla Mujeres Vacations.
Last time I was in Cancun we took a boat over to Isla Mujeres and rented a golf cart. We could have stayed way longer. I live to collect sea shells and found a great selection on this island. The vibe here is very laid back and relaxing which makes it even better for enjoying a cold beer. I will totally be back, and this time I will be spending a day or two instead!
It is definitely worth a hotel stay. I love collecting sea shells as well. And yes, the vibe is laid back and relaxing. Perfect for the beach bum in me. Glad you enjoyed reading Isla Mujeres Vacations and I prompted to visit again 🙂
Fantastic website and article! Me and my partner are going on honeymoon this month to Mexico but think we are a fair distance from this, we are going to Riviera Maya?
Either way this post was a terrific read!
Yes, some say it is part of the Riviera Maya, and some say the Yucatan Peninsula. I do believe the terms are interchangeable for Isla Mujeres 🙂 Where in Mexico are you going? I am sure you will have a fantastic time! Thanks for reading 🙂
I’ve been to Isle Mujeres and I loved it! Your article was spot on and makes me want to go back! I’m a foodie and a beer lover and really enjoyed Jax Cafe. The weather is fantastic and I particularly loved the boat ride over and the evening boating excursions around the island!
Wow, awesome Steven! I am glad my post was so spot on. Yes, the Jax Café and the boat ride are a must. I believe this island in Mexico is worth a bucket list item and worth visiting more than once for sure! Thanks for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com.
Well I am ready for a vacation now, I love the beach and the video is so inviting,My husband has always wanted to go to the Bahama. Me I just want to be on the beach thank’s for such a great Presentation of this beautiful place. VickiG
Yeah, same here. I just love the beach. I don’t need to go somewhere popular or well known. I do like to explore though and see things, so Isla Mujeres vacations are perfect for that. Thanks for reading!
Very interesting post with lots of information. I hope to visit this beautiful place and all on Yucatan Peninsula. I want to visit Turtle Farm, it seems very interesting and of course, swimming with dolphins. Also, the coral beach of Playa Norte looks beautiful and I want to visit it definitely. Thanks for recommending good restaurants. This is a very valuable information for tourists. So, this is a great post, thanks for it.
You are welcome Maja, and yes there is so much to offer on Isla Mujeres. I personally like the turtle farm too! I have not swam with the dolphins, but that is definitely something I plan on doing. They are such beautiful sea animals. Thank you for reading about Isla Mujeres Vacations!
Another great beach post. Boy I am almost sold on these. The Isla Mujeres turtle farm would probably be my favorite place to hang out here. I love the sea life. However, knowing that I can go swimming and not have to worry about it getting more than chest deep is very tempting also.
Thank you for the extra special tips about not riding a bike at night because of no lights and making sure the damage is noted before hand.
You information is always great.
Thank you
Thanks Melissa and I try 🙂 Isla Mujeres is gorgeous and a great alternative to some of the more crowded Mexican beach destinations. I am glad you enjoyed your visit to Isla Mujeres Vacations.
This a fantastic article on Isla Mujeres, you really focus on giving enough information to understand why you would go there and what to do where you are there. I love the concept of only being able to get around on golf carts. This is a new concept for me and I need to look into these places more. I’ve read a few of your articles and I am always informed after I finish reading and always wanting to go where you recommend 🙂 – Thanks for the restaurants and nightclub options!
You are welcome Lyndsay, and as always thank you for continuing to visit my website and for reading about Isla Mujeres Vacations! I am glad you enjoyed!
Wow Mexico is truly beautiful! I’m surprised Cancún is the only one that gets most of the masses attention. Mexico has so many places that offer a dream vacation. I plan on taking a trip this summer maybe Mexico will have to be on the top of my list now!
Yes, you will have to plan a trip to Mexico. Cancun is wonderful, but there are so many places that are just as wonderful, less crowded, and less expensive. Thanks for visiting Isla Mujeres Vacations!
Isla Mujeres in the Yucatan Peninsula sounds like a wonderful place to visit. I have been to Cozumel, Mexico twice but have never been anywhere else in Mexico. I like the idea of it being quieter and more affordable.
Playa Norte Beach sounds like the place to go too with the crushed coral on the beach and the fact that you can go out pretty far in the water and it is only chest deep. That’s my kind of beach!
I think that I have been to Punta Sur as we traveled by ferry then a van for a few hours the last time we were there. It was quite lovely to visit.
What is your favorite place to stay there?
You know I have been to Cabo many, many times and still love it there. Even though it is crowded, and expensive. I guess there is this familiarity there for me. Cancun is probably busier than Cabo, so I would definitely pick any place on the Yucatan over Cancun. And yes, Playa Norte is my kind of beach too!
Traveling around the world has always been a dream for me, and Cancun was definitely a must see on the list. I’m glad to have read this and been so informed about Isla Mujeres. Seems like another must see especially if I am around that area of the world! Wing diving also looks crazy fun! Thanks for the article
Yes, if you are in Cancun, you have to make it to Isla Mujeres. Wing Diving IS crazy fun! Glad you enjoyed reading Isla Mujeres Vacations.
Great review, though i can’t pronounce the name of the place its looks like such a nice travel destination with lots of things to do. I like the turtle farm the most since i am an advocate of protecting the endangered species, i would visit the place to support the initiative.
Yes, Anita I am with you on the turtle farm. Anyway to protect them, I am all for it! Thanks for visiting Isla Mujeres Vacations!
Oh wow, swimming with dolphins? You’ve sold it to me already as that has always been my dream. In fact, this sounds like the perfect holiday for me – good weather, clear sea, and lots of animal related activities like the turtle farm. It’s sad they are still hunted but also great that efforts are being made to help save them.
Another thing I love about Isla Mujeres is getting around on a golf buggy, how cool is that? It’s the simple things in life that make me happy 🙂 Thanks for yet again, another wonderful holiday review.
You are very welcome Stefanie! I agree. I too, just love the simple things in life. Nothing complicated. I do believe that you will love Isla Mujeres. Thanks for reading and visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com!
Looking at your website, makes me want to pack my bags and hop onto a plane to Mexico. The place looks great.
Your correct in saying that most people centre around Cancun when they want to go to Mexico, but there seems to be more great places around the vicinity.
I’ve never been to Mexico before but it’s on our bucket list, and seen as me and my wife enjoy beach holidays and a place to relax, Isla Mujeres looks the place to be.
You know I have been to Mexico probably 15 times, and only once to Cancun. There are so many other places, and being a single mom on a budget…well I tend to find the less traveled places such as Isla Mujeres. Thanks for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com