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I recently spent a long weekend in Isla Mujeres for my sister’s Bachelorette Party, and I have to say, it was one of the BEST trips I’ve been on. I can’t recommend Isla enough if you’re looking for an easy, beach getaway with the ladies.
Below I've compiled a list of my favorite things to see and do on the island. I hope this helps with your planning, and that you fall completely in love with Isla like I did.
But first...
A Little About Isla Mujeres:
We thought Isla Mujeres was the perfect Bachelorette destination since it translates to "Island of Women." Isla is a very small island off the coast of Cancun, away from the big resorts and cities. This island is only 5 miles long and even with its close proximity to Cancun, somehow manages to keep its small-town feel. Beautiful bougainvilleas, brightly-colored stucco homes, and sunbathing iguanas line the streets of this quaint island.
As the name suggests, Playa Norte is located on the north side of the island. Considered one of the prettiest beaches in the world, this is where you'll find beach clubs steps away from the bluest of blue water. On the south side of the island is Punta Sur, which is magical. You'll find the best views here from the majestic cliffs of Mexico. It really is beautiful.
How to Get to Isla:
It may seem daunting, but getting to Isla Mujeres from Cancun is very easy. When you arrive in Cancun, you'll want to take a taxi to the Ultramar Ferry in Puerto Juarez. You can quickly grab a taxi at the airport, but I recommend booking one before arriving. This will help you not overpay (especially if you're going with a group, because some taxis like to charge per person). I booked through TasteofIsla for 7 people, costing me $55 total (plus water/beer included). The ferry terminal is about a 15-minute drive from the airport.
Once at the ferry terminal, you can purchase an Ultramar ticket to Isla Mujeres for $15 one-way. The ferries are scheduled every 30 minutes, so have a quick margarita while you wait.
The ferry ride is about 10-15 minutes and it's breathtaking. It's a calm ride across unbelievably blue waters. Truly magical. But bring a hat and some sunscreen because you will get hot!
Where to Stay:
There are plenty of VRBO, Airbnb, and hotel options on the island. For this trip, we rented Casa Mar Azul through VRBO. A real gem! If you're going with a large group, I highly recommend this place.
I was a little nervous since the house is located on the south end of the island, away from downtown and Playa Norte. However, it was so nice being away from the hustle and bustle in town. Riding alongside the beautiful coast in a golf cart to town was actually one of my favorite parts of the trip ( *see recommendations below).
Link to Book through VRBO: Casa Mar Azul
If you're looking to stay closer to town, I've also stayed in Casa Murmullos through Airbnb. We had an ocean view and could walk to town and Playa Norte. We even saw turtles right from our house! This house is great for a couple or small group and is budget-friendly.
My Top Recommendations:
Whether you're traveling with friends, family, your partner, or solo, there is plenty to do on this small island. I wanted to gather a few of my favorite recommendations. Try some of these out, and you will absolutely love your trip.
Here are some of my top recommendations:
Rent a Golf Cart
There are plenty of places on the island to rent a golf cart. You can find most of them right when you exit the ferry terminal. We didn't rent one ahead of time. Just walked up and reserved two. The cost should be about $60-80/day.
Please take my recommendation and rent one of these! It's such a fun way to see the entire island. Especially in a group, you won't have to worry about splitting up and taking separate taxis. We had such a great time cruising and laughing around the island.
Pro Tip: Watch for the speed bumps! Sloowwwww wayyyyy down.
Have Breakfast at Caribbean Garden
We actually ate here for breakfast twice. It was so peaceful starting the morning with a cappuccino and pineapple mimosa in this jungle-like space. It's away from the downtown crowds, which makes for a perfect, zen morning.
You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Some great menu options include Rancheros Eggs, French Toast with Mango and Passion Fruit, Avocado Toast, and Eggs Benedict with Lobster.
Mango & Passion Fruit French Toast
Snorkel at Garrafon de Castilla Beach Club
If you want an easy snorkeling experience, try the Garrafon de Castilla Beach Club (not to be confused with the Garrafon Natural Reef Park). We didn't want to commit to an excursion or get on a boat to go somewhere. We didn't buy tickets in advance but just showed up at the club in the morning (they open at 10 AM).
When you arrive, you can buy a ticket and rent snorkeling gear. Super easy! They also have food and drinks here if you want to stay all day!
Reserve a Cabana at Playa Norte
If you're visiting Isla Mujeres, you'll need a beach day at Playa Norte. I reserved a cabana at the Green Demon Beach Club a few days in advance. Great food, tropical cocktails, and a killer DJ here! You can set up a reservation directly on their Facebook page. It can seem a bit pricey ($28 dollars to reserve a cabana + $28 per person food/drink minimum), but completely worth it! And if you stay for a few hours, you'll hit your minimum fast.
There's nothing like Playa Norte. Once you lie down in the shallow, electric blue water, your troubles will float away. It's heaven on earth.
Ceviche Tostadas- Green Demon Beach Club
Drinks at Chili Brothers
We stumbled upon this cute place for a mid-afternoon drink before dinner. We had such a good time here! This is a great place to sit on the patio and people-watch the day away. We didn't get to try their food (although their dinner menu looked fantastic), but the drinks were perfect. Their spicy mango margarita tasted like it was made with fresh juice, and had a great kick.
Not only were the drinks top-notch, but the waiters were so friendly and accommodating. Go check this place out!
Book a Private Chef with Taste of Isla
Highly recommend! We loved this fun, Real Housewives-esque experience. Private chefs will go directly to your rental, and prepare you a phenomenal meal. The food was incredible, and we so enjoyed our chefs! Not only did they prepare a wonderfully fresh meal, but they were also so pleasant and really provided an unforgettable experience. They even put nicely-packed leftovers in our fridge for a next-day snack.
Taste of Isla has many menu options. We opted for the taco party, and wow! The meal was complete with three different salsas. I've NEVER had better salsas. Their barbacoa and pastor tacos were fantastic and paired well with the open-bar margaritas.
Definitely give this a go if you're looking for an indulgent moment for a decent cost. The taco party + margaritas cost about $50 per person.
Enjoy Dinner at Lola Valentina
I love coming here for a fancy meal that won't break the bank. Located in town, it's an excellent place to start your night. Everything on the menu sounds delicious, so choosing is tough. I ordered the Latin Surf and Turf with chimichurri, and it was incredible! Their drinks are also spot on. The atmosphere here is lively and energetic, yet somehow also intimate. Definitely, definitely put Lola on your list.
Latin Surf & Turf
Dance at La Terreza
The atmosphere is incredible. This is such a fun place to check out live music and dance the night away. This small, intimate bar almost feels like you’re going back in time. This is my favorite kind of bar: a little dive with high energy. I’ve not eaten here, but I’ve heard the food is incredible and kind to the budget. They have live music every night, so definitely put it on your list to stop by.
I just returned from Isla Mujeres, but I am already planning my return trip. As Texans, we are very fortunate to live so close to Mexico.
I hope this post serves as inspiration for you. Pack your bags and go!
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