On Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women, you can enjoy a variety of activities or do nothing at all!
North Beach
North Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With crystal clear waters, white sand, a shallow slope and gentle waves, it is the perfect beach to swim, snorkel, windsurf, or simply sunbath while watching the breathtaking Mexican Caribbean sunset.
Shopping and Dining
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, and native art. The town also offers a great selection of restaurants, ranging from favorite islander beach restaurants like Picus, to five-star locations like Villa Rolandi’s and Casa O’s.
Garrafon Park
There are two marine parks on the southern end of the island, 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!
Mayan Ruins
On the southern tip of the island you can visit the remains of a 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 and if you are receptive, you can feel the charged energy that this place emanates!
Turtle Farm
Marine turtles are a protected species in Mexico, and the Turtle Farm on Isla Mujeres has a project that helps increase their chances to reproduce and survive in the open sea. 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.
Dolphin Discovery
For those who want to experience an immersion into the world of dolphins, two daily programs are offered called "Swim with Dolphins" at Dolphin Discovery in Sac Bajo.
Swim with Whale Sharks
Between the months of May and August, in the tropical waters off the coast of Isla Mujeres, a unique phenomena occurs each year. Hundreds of whale sharks migrate to the local waters. These 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.
Recreational Fishing
Recreational Fishing is a very popular activity on Isla Mujeres. During the summer there are regional and national tournaments, held primarily at two fishing spots, La Grieta and La Corrientada.
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, including the famous Regata Amigos, where sailors take children for a ride around the island. The event culminates with a traditional Cinco de Mayo celebration.
Snorkeling and Scuba diving
Isla Mujeres is world reknown 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.
Sculpture Garden
Thanks to the initiative and patronage of a Mexican sculptor, this unique park was created on the South Point (Punta Sur) in 2001. He helped summon national and international artists to leave their mark on the island with more than twenty sculptures, some offering a stark contrast to their surroundings.
Mundaca Estate
Mundaca Park along with the Mundaca Estate were converted into a zoo that will be remodeled shortly. This remodeling will include the introduction of new regional animals and natural resources. You can visit the Estate to relax under the trees and enjoy the flora and fauna.
Lighthouses
Isla Mujeres has two lighthouses, one each on the North and South points of the island. You can climb both and admire a beautiful panoramic view of the island.
Daytrips
Need more? Catch a boat from one of the docks in town for a visit to the bird aviary at Isla Contoy, or a snorkeling trip along other parts of the reef off this part of the Yucatan. Or take the ferry that runs every half-hour back in to Cancun, for more shopping and dining choices, or for excursions to visit famous Mayan ruins like Chitzen Itza, and Tulum.
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