One of the must-dos when exploring Cancun is to visit Isla Holbox, Mexico. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful islands to visit, and it’s very easy to visit if you follow a few important tips to make your trip go smoothly.
Whether you’re visiting Isla Holbox, Mexico for a day trip or for a longer trip, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure to book certain things before you arrive. We realized this the hard way on our last trip and really wished we had planned (and packed) our trip more.
So, to help your visit go smoothly, we have detailed all the tips and tricks for getting to Isla Holbox, as well as what to do once you arrive.
That way, you can spend all your precious vacation time enjoying the island (without getting stuck with delays or additional research). I hope you have the best time.
How to get to Isla Holbox in Mexico
First you need to go to the town of Chiquila, where most boats to Isla Holbox depart. Now, if you are planning this trip on your own, be sure to ride it. holbox express. Boats run hourly from 6:30 AM to approximately 9:30 PM. The boat itself is relatively fast and costs just over 200 pesos. Plus, you can also use cards, which makes everything super easy.
Will you be staying in Cancun?surely Book your Holbox Island tour Organize all transfers, boats and timetables from your hotel. This tour is really great if you want to take a day trip to Holbox Island. However, be prepared to leave relatively early in the morning.
Please be sure to Book this tour before arriving in Cancun. Finding accurate prices (without haggling) with local vendors can be very tedious, as spaces sell out quickly during peak times. Please be sure to bring cash and a debit or credit card. The tour requires you to pay a Balam preparation tax (approximately 500 pesos or so).
Things to do on Isla Holbox
1.) Kayaking at sunrise in the mangrove forest
If you’re an early bird and staying overnight on Isla Holbox, be sure to: Book a guided sunrise kayak experience. As you kayak through the peaceful mangrove forest, you’ll see the following: Flamingos and pelicans all live in this area. Not only that, you might even spot local osprey.
Along with this specific tour, where you’ll be picked up by a golf cart from your hotel on Holbox Island and taken directly to your kayak on the water. It’s all so easy and so beautiful. Additionally, all of our guides are experienced and speak both Spanish and English.
Read more: Things to do in Tulum
2.) Holbox Island Beach
Isla Holbox’s protected coastline is perfect for exploring when visiting Isla Holbox, Mexico. playa holbox Probably the most famous part of the coastline to visit, the white sand beaches are stunning.
In addition, there are many small beach bars, sun lounger rentals and pools right on the sandy beach.
Jump in for a snack La Playa de Nhaña. Their ceviche is so delicious and their tacos are second to none. As with most beachfront clubs with loungers, there is one caveat. There is a minimum usage amount. It usually costs around 500 pesos, but that price is discounted if you buy food and drinks.
3.) Whale shark tour
One of the most famous habitats around Mexico’s Isla Holbox is the whale shark, which frequents waters throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. It is truly beautiful to see this gentle giant in the wild, especially in its natural habitat around the coastline.
Please be sure to Book your Isla Holbox whale shark tour To see them in the wild. Not only will you receive accurate safety briefings, but you’ll also enjoy snorkeling in Cabo Catoches on a day trip. Very worth it.
4.) Rent a golf cart
When you visit Isla Holbox, Mexico, there are no cars or trucks. There are no big circles all over the island, which makes it a great experience to explore.
That being said, if you want to explore the length and breadth of the island, be sure to rent a golf cart or buggy.
There is currently no need to reserve these in advance. When you arrive, you will find many vendors renting. You can try to haggle a little, but the price will vary very little. That being said, maybe we’re just bad at haggling.
Read more: Things to do in Tulum
5.) Playa de Punta Coco
Another great beach to visit on Isla Holbox, Mexico is playa de punta coco. There are few buildings around the coastline itself, giving it a more natural feel. In other words, it’s a great place to relax if you want a little break from the crowds of the beach, which can be crowded at peak times.
Also, almost forgot, this is a great beach to watch the bioluminescent plankton light up the waves and the ocean itself. If it’s right down your street, Book this bioluminescent tour From Holbox Island itself. It’s really great when the conditions are right. That being said, you should be prepared to not see it at all.
6.) Scroll through the port area
Once you’ve had your fill of sea air and filled your stomach, be sure to head to the port area (where you arrived by ferry). From here you can walk the entire width of Isla Holbox and admire the colorful streets and small restaurants and bars of the town itself.
The whole area is fully prepared for tourists and you feel really safe walking around.
If you want to find a nice spot, go to the following places. Arte Sano For a delicious breakfast roots famous lobster pizza viva zapata Enjoy grilled fish and fresh tacos. Leave this area packed.
Read more: Things to do in Tulum
7.) Mantalaya Beach Club
If you’re looking for a beach club atmosphere while visiting Isla Holbox, Mexico, head to Mantalaya Beach Club. Now, don’t expect a fancy beach club in the style of Ibuza. It’s a place with plastic chairs and a beautiful coastline. But don’t let that discourage you. This is a pretty good place for a more rustic seaside dining spot.
Their grilled fish is very tasty and the salads are very tasty especially when it’s so hot outside.
As with most beachfront spots, you have to pay a “holding fee” to sit and lounge, which is usually charged out of your meal bill.
Cards appear to be accepted everywhere on Holbox Island, but there appears to be a 5% fee (or something similar) added to card usage. If that bothers you, be sure to bring pesos.
Read more: Things to do in Tulum
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