Playa Norte, coral reefs and sculptures reveal the different sides of Isla Mujeres. When choosing a holiday rental, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip: beaches and swimming, snorkelling, or art and island history. The island’s places and themes offer concrete points of reference.

Getting there: plan your departure point

Ferries from Cancún to Isla Mujeres depart from Puerto Juárez, Playa Tortugas, El Embarcadero and Playa Caracol. When planning your journey, consider which of these four points you would like to depart from, and check the latest departure information before travelling: departure arrangements may change.

Beaches, reefs and seasonal activities

Playa Norte has clear, shallow water and white sand. You can swim, relax and snorkel there. Garrafón Natural Reef Park is on the Punta Sur of Isla Mujeres; visitors can also snorkel at its coral reef. The focus differs: Playa Norte combines a beach and shallow water with opportunities for swimming and relaxation, while Garrafón combines snorkelling with a coral reef.

Seasonal interests may also play a role in your planning. Whale shark sightings are associated with May to September; international fishing tournaments with May and June. Swimming with whale sharks is among the activities promoted to tourists. Check current dates, operating conditions and permits before making specific plans.

Sculptures and Maya culture

At Parque Escultórico de Punta Sur, sculptures reflect Maya symbols, rituals and forms of expression associated with the Maya worldview. The park has 21 sculptures; this number may change. The Templo de Ixchel in Punta Sur was built in honour of Ixchel, the Maya goddess of fertility, love and medicine. On the island, you can encounter both artistic representations and a place with religious ties to Maya culture.

At Malecón Caribe, 25 sculptures are arranged in five “habitats”. They represent the island’s natural and cultural richness. The sculpture “Mujer Isleña” contains two QR codes that provide access to interpretations of island trova music. These include “Mujer Isleña” by Virgilio “El Chino” Fernández and “Sirenita de Amor” by Isolda Martínez Vera. The malecón thus combines public art with musical interpretations of the island’s traditions.

MUSA and the underwater world

MUSA, the Museo Subacuático de Arte, in the southern part of Isla Mujeres aims to illustrate the interaction between art and environmental sciences. Over time, marine life finds refuge in MUSA’s submerged sculptures. More than 440 of the museum’s submerged sculptures are located in the Manchones exhibition area near the south of Isla Mujeres; this number may change.

Hacienda Mundaca is a historic place steeped in tradition on Isla Mujeres. The Concurso del Ceviche Isleño 2025 offered a glimpse into the food culture: local chefs, fishers, restaurants and amateur cooks presented different versions of the traditional dish.

Facilities and finding accommodation

Parque Zazilhá has 11 water features, toilets, showers, lockers, tables for gathering and public parking. Check the individual facilities before your visit.

When looking for a holiday rental, you can match your interests to the focus of your stay: beaches and swimming, snorkelling, or art and culture. First decide what matters to you, then compare the specific details of each accommodation with your travel plans.

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