Island Information
What is there to do Isla Mujeres?
You can do as much or as little as you like, and you will find people doing just that all over the island.
Playa Norte or North Beach
North Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With crystal clear turquoise waters, powder white sand from limestone (this type of beach produces the softest sand and does not heat up in sunshine), a shallow slope and gentle waves (perfect for children or just lounging in the water), it is the perfect beach to swim, snorkel, windsurf, or simply sunbath while taking in the most beautiful water anywhere.
Swim with the WhaleSharks
Between the months of May and August, in the tropical waters north and west of Isla Mujeres, hundreds of whale sharks migrate to this region. These docile immense creatures measure between 35 and 50 feet (13-16 meters) in length. The opportunity to swim with these calm and noble animals is an unforgettable experience. Click Here for info on a whaleshark tour
Swim with the Dolphins
Dolphin Discovery in Sac Bajo offers several different packages to swim with the dolphins. They have all day programs that include food and pool activities too.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Isla Mujeres is world renown for its excellent diving and snorkeling. The scuba shops offer a wide range of activities including: scuba, snorkel tours, certifications, beginner programs, and explorations of coral formations, shipwrecks and the Sleeping Shark Cave. You can see eagle rays, turtles, dolphins, and tropical fish and more in the clear, warm waters.
Punta Sur and Sculpture Garden
In 2001 the park on Punta Sur (South Point) was opened that featured a path along the cliffs and many sculptures from artists around Mexico. Also on Punta sur are the ruins of the Mayan temple dedicated to the Goddess Ixchel - the Mayan earth and moon goddess and patroness of pregnant women. This is where the first rays of sunshine hit the Mexican Republic each morning. You can also climb the lighthouse on Punta Sur.
Turtle Farm
Marine turtles are a protected species in Mexico, and the Turtle Farm located on Sac Bajo, has a project that helps increase their chances to reproduce and survive in the open sea. Eggs are gathered after they are laid by adults by volunteers all over the island. After hatching and much care, once the newborns are strong enough to insure their survival, they are freed in a public event where the community and visitors are invited to participate.
Garrafon Park and Manchones Reef
Just off the southwest point of Isla Mujeres is Manchones Reef that provides the best snorkeling and diving in the area. There are two marine parks located nearby, Garrafon and Garrafon de Castilla. Both offer various aquatic sports, ranging from snorkeling the shallow coral reef, to kayaking, scuba diving, or riding zip lines over the water, perfect for families and beginners -- and adventurers!
Shopping
The town center is located on the northern end of the island. There you will find quaint, picturesque streets, nestled with unique jewelry and clothing boutiques, and craft stores that show off art from around the Caribbean. Expect to see beautiful handmade ceramics, woodcrafts, Panamanian-style hats, knit throw rugs from Chiapas, shawls, textiles, hammocks, onyx jewelry, t-shirts, local clothing, and native art and much much more. Shops are located up and down Medina, Juarez, and Hidalgo and the side streets as well. There is also flea market style shops just across from the Poc Na hostel off Matamoros.
Dining
The island offers a fantastic selection of restaurant choices. At night the main street downtown Hidalgo (pedestrian traffic only) transforms into a European style village with cafes and restaurants spilling their tables and chairs into the street. You can find some of the best eating in all the Yucatan here and its a great place to people watch too. After dinner locals bands play at several hotspots along Hidalgo as well.
Mundaca Estate and Empty Grave
Mundaca Park along with the Mundaca Estate were converted into a zoo that has been recently remodeled shortly. As of this writing the Navy had just dedicated the opening. We are not sure of what animal are in the zoo yet. You can visit the Estate to relax under the trees and enjoy the flora and fauna. Mundaca park is located on the southern end of La Gloria on Medina. Located in the cemetary near Playa Norte is Mundaca's empty grave. He is actually buried near Merida and never occupied the grave. Legend has it he fell in love with a young local girl. She wanted nothing to do with him, as she was in love with a young local fisherman. The inscription on the grave reads (translated) As you are now, I once was, and as I am now, so shall ye be. You can find the grave in the graveyard (Skull and crossbones on it) open daily, no charge to visitors.
Sailing
During the last week of April, the island is the headquarters for an international sailing event called Regatta del Sol al Sol. Sailboats from Florida are enthusiastically received, with partying and festivities throughout the week.
Fishing and Sportfishing
Fishing is a very popular activity on Isla Mujeres. During the summer there are regional and national tournaments. During winter months dozens of sport fishing boats can be seen going in and out of the harbor daily. Click here for info on booking a fishing trip