Though only a short ferry ride away from Cancun, Isla Mujeres (meaning, “island of women”) seems worlds away. There are still resorts and beaches dotted with sunbathers, but the island on the Caribbean Sea is small and quiet for the most part. It’s only 7 km in length — in fact golf carts are a popular way to get around.
The island was a Mayan sanctuary to goddess Ixchel for about a thousand years. If you find yourself in Cancun, but looking for something calmer and a little smaller in scale — with even better access to the natural beauty and culture of the Yucatan…the Isla is worth retreating to.
The laid back feel of Isla Mujeres translated to instant relaxation for me, so take a deep breath and come on a photo journey there with me now.
The white powdery sands of Playa Norte…
Boat trips out on the warm Caribbean Sea…
Fresh fruit drinks and refreshing shade…
Uncrowded beaches…
Unique snorkeling and diving (Cancun Underwater Museum)
A thriving underwater world to explore…
SeaWalls street art and mural project…
Architecture…
And glimpses of local life…
Of course not without fresh seafood and fine Mexican cooking…
All topped off by a glowing sunset and dinner on the sand.
(Isla Mujeres Palace Hotel.)
Thank you to the Cancun CVB for hosting me. All opinions (and images) are fully my own.
Updated March 2019.
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debster says
wow. and WOW. I wanna go there and visit now.
thank you for this post. 🙂
Anne says
I want to go back! Thanks for reading. Happy travels! 🙂
Chanel | Cultural Xplorer says
Just booked my flight to the Cancun area…. I think I am interested in visiting this Island 😀 Thanks Anne!
Anne says
Awesome! When are you heading down there Chanel?
Chanel | Cultural Xplorer says
I will be going there in July 😀
Anne says
Awesome! You will love it. Let me know if I can be of any help 😀
Naomi says
We LOVED our time at Isla Mujeres! Can’t wait to go back again! It was too short a visit!!
Anne says
It’s a gorgeous island, with a very different feel from Cancun. I’d like to go back as well!
Deepak Acharya says
Looks like a lovely place 🙂
Kristin says
Amazing photos! That sand and water are stunning. Looks like such a romantic spot for dinner on the beach.
Jerry says
Planning to go to IM for our 35th wedding anniversary in June 2016.
Anne says
That’s wonderful! It’s a romantic spot 🙂