A small Caribbean island with calm beaches, snorkeling at Playa Norte and Garrafon, and an easy golf-cart tour.
Isla Mujeres is a walkable island whose main draws are Playa Norte, shallow turquoise water, and the Garrafon reef park. Many visitors rent a golf cart to reach Punta Sur, the island's southern cliffs, and the nearby sculpture park. The ferry from Puerto Juarez takes about 20 minutes and runs frequently through the day.
Snorkeling trips depart for the MUSA underwater museum and, seasonally, for whale-shark encounters between roughly June and September.
| Distance | About 13 km northeast of Cancun by sea |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 20 minutes by ferry from Puerto Juarez |
| Getting there | Ultramar ferry from Terminal Puerto Juarez to Isla Mujeres (about MXN 580, USD 33 round trip for adults) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Address | Terminal Maritima, Av. Rueda Medina, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo |
How to get there
- Ultramar ferry from Puerto Juarez
- Ferries from Playa Tortugas (Hotel Zone)
- Catamaran tour
- Private boat
Suggested itinerary
- Morning ferry from Puerto Juarez, Playa Norte, golf-cart loop to Punta Sur, lunch in town, snorkeling or beach time, evening ferry back
Location
Terminal Maritima, Av. Rueda Medina, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo
21.2314, -86.7313 View on map
Highlights
- Playa Norte
- Punta Sur
- Garrafon reef
- MUSA underwater museum
Tips for visiting
- Take the first ferry for calmer water
- Rent a golf cart in town for about half a day
- Bring cash pesos for small shops
- Check return ferry times at the terminal
When to visit
Weekday mornings avoid cruise-ship crowds.
Accessibility
The ferry and main town are accessible; Punta Sur involves uneven paths.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How can visitors get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun?
Take the Ultramar ferry from Puerto Juarez, about 20 minutes each way.
Is a golf cart necessary?
Not strictly, but it is the easiest way to see the southern end of the island.