Mini Guide to the Top things to do in Isla Mujeres + Best Tours
If you plan on visiting Isla Mujeres, you have two options: to go on a day trip from Cancun or stay on the island for a few nights.
Since I live in Cancun, I did both, and in this post, I will share the best activities and things to do in Isla Mujeres. I hope it will help you decide the best way to visit this island. Or, in case you have already opted to stay for a few days, I am sure this post will help you plan your trip.
Despite its small size, Isla Mujeres is a destination that offers many things to do, which can sometimes be overwhelming.
Below are a few top things to do to help you narrow down your Isla Mujeres Bucket list.
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Watch the sunset from the beach
Isla Mujeres has breathtaking beaches, and a beach day is made doubly unforgettable with an evening spent watching the endless turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea turned golden by the setting sun.
There are plenty of bars along the coast that offer service right on the beach, so you can take advantage of the facilities provided there and lounge on one of their deck chairs to enjoy the sunset while sipping on freshly made cocktails.
Rent a golf cart and explore
Isla Mujeres is gorgeous but also small enough to explore around at a slow pace and take in the surrounding beauty.
This makes a golf cart rental perfect for exploring the island and seeing its many attractions and scenic beaches.
Visit el Garrafon
4⭐ 27 Reviews
El Garrafon is a reef park on Isla Mujeres where you can enjoy an array of thrilling activities like zip-lining, snorkeling, and kayaking as well as things like temazcal ceremonies and relaxing in an infinity pool with breathtaking views of cliffs and reefs in front of you.
You can also purchase a VIP pass to the park and enjoy added facilities like exclusive admission, a VIP lounge with a jacuzzi, an open bar, unlimited snacks, a buffet lunch, and even round-trip boat transportation to the park from Cancun.
ViP very worth it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Kevin_S, Jul 2018
Had a great time. Separate areas meant never having to worry about finding a table or lounge chair. Staff was fantastic and attentive. We have done the park 5 times at least… but the VIP is worth every penny. Had a great time. And a real bargain for a full day.
Visit Punta Sur
Punta Sur is located at the southern tip of Isla Mujeres. It’s a popular ecological park on the island, with a sculpture garden featuring various art pieces as well as an ancient Mayan temple, a small lighthouse, some restaurants, and a few souvenir shops there.
This is the island’s highest point, so it serves great as a lookout spot to watch the sunrise or simply enjoy awe-inspiring views of the Caribbean Sea.
Spend a day on North Beach (Playa Norte)
Located at the northern tip of Isla Mujeres, Playa Norte is one of the most popular beaches on the island.
Make sure you spend a day at North Beach and participate in all the fun water activities offered to make your trip memorable.
Many beachfront resorts and luxury hotels of Isla Mujeres have a private beach area at Playa Norte for their guests as well.
If you’re staying at such a place, you can spend time on North Beach just a few steps from your lodgings while enjoying a variety of water sports and 5-star service.
Take a snorkeling tour
5⭐ 1033 Reviews
If you’re looking to go on an underwater adventure, there’s no better place than Isla Mujeres. The island’s coast is home to exotic marine life, including dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, and more.
You can join one of the many organized snorkeling tours to explore coral reefs full of vibrant colors and aquatic species.
Here’s one with a memorable experience and a delicious beachfront lunch.
Great adventure with kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cynthia_M, Jan 2023
Theo was our guide and we enjoyed his good nature and expertise. He engaged with all of us – including our kids – like a total pro. Our boat captain Jose was likewise skilled. We saw loads of fish, and even a stingray and a turtle. Lunch is the last stop (yummy grilled fish, noodles, rice, and a salad), so eat before you go!
Snorkel in the underwater museum
5⭐ 119 Reviews
Speaking of snorkeling, you can also take this tour to go on a unique experience in the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA) located off the coast of Isla Mujeres.
This incredible museum is home to over 500 sculptures made by local and international artists and carefully placed in three different galleries, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Amazing half day trip
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jazmond_M, Sep 2022
Amazing trip. Diego and other guide was amazing. We stopped 3 different places and then for an amazing lunch. We got two guides due to weather however it wasn’t bad at all. Guides were patient and informal as well as poured great margaritas 10/10
Dive into the underwater museum
5⭐ 61 Reviews
If you would like a deeper look (literally) into MUSA, this diving tour is just the thing for you. You will be provided all the scuba gear required for the trip to this fascinating underwater world, as well as delicious snacks and refreshments and a certified instructor to go along with you.
Pepe and crew made it a wonderful experience to share with my teenagers
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Julie_P, Apr 2022
I was having difficulty relaxing. It was our first dive but I wanted to share the experience with my children. Pepe was very patient and walked me through several times while taking a lesson in the pool. He and the rest of the crew helped me along the way and made sure we had a good time. Thanks for the memories!
Swim with whale sharks
Swimming with whale sharks in their natural habitat is truly an experience of a lifetime, and Isla Mujeres is one of the best places to do it.
This is where whale sharks migrate in huge numbers. So, if you want to take advantage of this opportunity while visiting the island, the Whale Shark Tour Isla Mujeres is a great choice.
