23 Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres Mexico in 2025
Looking for the best things to do in Isla Mujeres Mexico? You’ve come to the right guide!
As a travel blogger that has lived in Playa del Carmen for many years, I’ve visited the nearby island of Isla Mujeres many times for excursions and activities.
Isla Mujeres offers something for everyone from spectacular beaches and unique snorkeling adventures to boat excursions and golf cart bar crawls.
MY TOP PICK
⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?
My top recommendation for the best thing to do in Isla Mujeres is to relax at Playa Norte–consistently voted as one of the best beaches in the world!
In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations for the best things to do in Isla Mujeres both in the water and on land.
So whether you’re staying on the island or just visiting on a day trip, I’ve got you covered!
Ready to find out what to do in Isla Mujeres Mexico? Let’s get started!
Top 3 Picks: Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres Mexico
Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres Mexico
These are the top things to do in Isla Mujeres whether you’re staying on the island or taking a day trip to Isla Mujeres from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or the Riviera Maya:
1. Relax on Playa Norte
Starting at the top of the list of things to do in Isla Mujeres has to be a visit to Playa Norte (North Beach), which is the most popular beach on the island.
This Isla Mujeres must see beach is located on the northern end of the island and the perfect place for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
Playa Norte is basically the party cove of the island, and one of the most popular places for boats and yachts to anchor at–you might even spot a celebrity super yacht!
There are numerous beach clubs and bars on Playa Norte, as well as beach volleyball nets. You can also rent all sorts of non-motorized water sports equipment here.
Travelista Tip: If you’re looking to relax, the northern end of Playa Norte is generally less crowded and less congested with beach umbrellas.
Recommended Isla Mujeres Beach Clubs
Check out these Playa Norte beach club recommendations below for beach bed rentals and food and beverage service:
- Green Demon Beach Club: My personal favorite, this trendy Isla Mujeres beach club has string lights, great music, and hexagon-shaped beach beds, and offers healthier food items, drinks, and cocktails.
- Oceanus Beach Club Isla Mujeres: This popular Isla Mujeres beach club is situated inside of the Casa del Jaguar Beach Hotel offering full-size beach beds and umbrellas for rent.
- Guru Beach Club and Restaurant: This upscale adults beach club is located on the north end of Playa Norte with beach beds for rent, a pool, music with a live DJ, restrooms, and showers.
2. Go on an Isla Mujeres Catamaran Sail
Isla Mujeres is known for its crystal clear turquoise water and one of the best ways to experience it is on a catamaran sail!
Catamarans are large sailing vessels that have two hulls, or pontoons. This makes them stable and ideal for enjoying the island’s coastline.
On an Isla Mujeres catamaran tour, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on deck, swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and have free time to explore Isla Mujeres at leisure.
Plus, lunch and an open bar are included so you can enjoy unlimited margaritas while taking in the views!
This is a great option for those who want to take a day trip to Isla Mujeres from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or the Riviera Maya, as all of your transportation is included.
I went on an Isla Mujeres catamaran sail for a friend’s birthday once and it was such an unforgettable experience!
The bright turquoise color of the water will definitely leave you with a jaw-dropping first impression.
3. See the MUSA Underwater Museum of Art
Isla Mujeres is home to an Underwater Museum of Art known as MUSA (“Museo Subacuático de Arte”).
This underwater museum is made up of over 500 sculptures that have been placed on the seabed near the island.
You can either book a MUSA snorkeling tour or a scuba dive to see the underwater sculptures, which are designed to promote the growth of coral reefs.
Aside from the sculpture garden, you’ll also get to see a house and car under the water. The experience is so unique and a step above your typical snorkeling excursion!
4. Visit Punta Sur
Punta Sur is the southernmost tip of Isla Mujeres, and is home to a beautiful sculpture park, lighthouse, and breathtaking ocean views.
With a small entrance fee, it is essentially an island landmark and one of the best places to visit in Isla Mujeres.
Often overshadowed by the more popular Playa Norte, Punta Sur is one hidden gem in Isla Mujeres that shouldn’t be missed!
Punta Sur Lighthouse
Punta Sur Isla Mujeres is also home to a small lighthouse located in the middle of the park.
Visitors are not able to climb the lighthouse, but it is still makes for a good photo backdrop.
Note there used to also be a Punta Sur restaurant here but it is currently closed.
Punta Sur Sculpture Park
At Punta Sur, you’ll also find a Sculpture Park that features contemporary art and sculptures, which are modern representations of Mayan civilization by artists from around the world.
Punta Sur Mayan Ruins
In this area, you’ll also find the remains of the Temple of Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of love and fertility.
In fact, this is how Isla Mujeres (Island of Women) got its name after the Spanish discovered several female figures when they arrived on the island.
Punta Sur Cliffs
Another notable feature at Punta Sur is the Punta Sur Cliffs, natural rock formations overlooking the ocean with many different viewpoints and pathways. It’s a great spot for ocean views and an incredible photo op!
⚠️ Near Punta Sur, you’ll also find the popular Garrafon Reef Park and Beach Club which I don’t like to recommend because it has dolphins held in captivity. There are plenty of places in this part of Mexico where you can see dolphins and other marine life in the wild which is so much cooler! I encourage you to keep that in mind when choosing to visit Garrafon Natural Reef Park.
5. Go Swimming with Whale Sharks
Swimming with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres Mexico is such as unforgettable experience and trust me, it’s not as scary as it sounds!
These massive creatures are the largest fish in the world, but they’re actually filter-feeding gentle giants and their mouths are only the size of a quarter.
Whale shark season in Isla Mujeres is only from May to September, when they arrive to feed in the plankton-rich waters off the coast of the island.
On the Isla Mujeres whale shark tour, you’ll get to swim right alongside these huge creatures for an up-close view but no touching is allowed.
I personally swam with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres and it was such an incredible experience!
You can read my full Isla Mujeres whale shark tour guide for all the details!
6. Rent a Golf Cart to Explore the Island
Golf carts are one of the main modes of transportation in Isla Mujeres and can be rented to explore the island at your own pace–and they’re a ton of fun!
Golf cart rentals in Isla Mujeres cost around $50-$100 USD for 24 hours and can be arranged at the Isla Mujeres ferry terminal, at your hotel, or at many other places around the island.
With a main road that goes around the island, it’s pretty easy to navigate, but you’ll be sharing some of the roads with cars, taxis, and pedestrians.
Once you’re away from the main tourist areas, you can explore some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Punta Sur and the beaches on the east side of the island.
My friend and I rented a golf cart while visiting and it was such a blast! The scenic roads along the coast are really beautiful.
7. Go on an Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour
As part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (the second longest barrier reef system in the world), Isla Mujeres is a great place to do some snorkeling.
While not as renowned as nearby Cozumel, there are still several great snorkeling spots around the island.
And since the water is crystal clear, there’s an abundance of marine life to see, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even stingrays.
On an Isla Mujeres snorkeling tour, you’ll get to visit some the best snorkeling spots in Isla Mujeres, including Manchones reef, which is the biggest coral reef on the island.
Isla Mujeres snorkeling tours typically include all snorkel gear, a boat trip to Isla Mujeres, lunch, and beverages for a full day adventure.
8. Go Souvenir Shopping in Downtown Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a popular tourist destination in Mexico, and souvenir shopping is one of the main things to do on the island.
There are many souvenir shops along the main road in downtown Isla Mujeres known as Avenida Miguel Hidalgo selling all kinds of souvenirs, from t-shirts and hats to handcrafted goods, leather products, and jewelry.
Isla Mujeres shopping prices vary depending on the item, but you can usually find good deals if you shop around. And don’t be afraid to bargain!
Some of the most popular souvenirs to buy in Isla Mujeres are handmade items such as pottery, straw baskets, and textiles.
9. Go Scuba Diving in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is also popular for its scuba diving, and the island is home to some amazing dive sites with crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life.
Isla Mujeres is a popular destination for both beginner and advanced divers, and there are many dive shops on the island that offer Discover Scuba introductory sessions, as well as open water certifications if you want to get scuba certified.
You can also scuba dive at the MUSA underwater sculpture museum for a totally unique diving experience!
10. Take a Day Trip to Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy is a small, uninhabited island located about 30 kilometers north of Isla Mujeres.
Only allowing 200 visitors per day to its pristine beach, the tiny island offers a totally exclusive tropical island experience.
Despite its small size, the island is also home to a variety of plant and animal life, including over 100 species of birds.
Visitors from the mainland can take a boat tour to Isla Contoy, where they can enjoy the island’s spectacular beaches, untouched palm trees, and birdwatching opportunities.
I personally visited Isla Contoy and can honestly say it’s the most beautiful beach I have seen in Mexico–it is really unbelievable!
11. Go on an Invisible Boat Ride
One of the most unique things to do on Isla Mujeres is the Clear Boat, which is an “invisible boat” that is entirely transparent on all sides.
This type of boat totally blows traditional glass bottom boats out of the water giving you unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea beneath your feet.
On the tour, you’ll get to cruise around the waters near Isla Mujeres on the clear boat, getting to spot marine life such as sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish.
You’ll also stop at El Meco Reef, a famous diving site with underwater statues. I’ve done the Clear Boat in Cozumel and it was such a memorable experience!
12. Sip on Swings at a Beach Bar
Head to the one of the many beach bars on Playa Norte for a laid-back spot to enjoy a refreshing beverage.
This wide, stretch of white sand beaches is dotted with bars that offer up swings instead of chairs, perfect for kicking back with a margarita or cerveza in hand.
You’ll likely be able to find a bar with swings just by walking down Playa Norte but one bars with swings is the Mayan Beach Club.
Swing away as you sip on your drink and take in the incredible surroundings! If you get hungry, most beach bars and Isla Mujeres restaurants also serve up traditional Mexican fare like tacos, quesadillas, and nachos.
13. Go Kayaking on Isla Mujeres
For a more adventurous activity, try kayaking on the clear waters around Isla Mujeres.
There are many different beach clubs that offer water activities in Isla Mujeres for guests such as kayaking, water trampolines, swimming, and snorkeling.
One place to go kayaking is at Parque de los Suenos, which is a beach club and restaurant with an oceanfront deck and pool overlooking the water.
Guests can also enjoy kayaks, a water slide, and a makeshift water zip-line while visiting.
It’s one of the best things to do in Isla Mujeres with family where you can hang out, eat and drink, and enjoy the beautiful views of the island in a relaxed and more enclosed space.
Typically, you’ll just pay a minimum consumption fee when visiting.
14. Snap a Photo in Front of the Colorful Isla Mujeres Letters
When visiting Isla Mujeres, be sure to snap a photo in front of the colorful letters that spell out the island’s name.
The letters are located on the northeastern side of the island opposite of Playa Norte (📍 Google Maps) and offer a scenic background right on the edge of the water.
This photo op is a popular one for visitors, and one of the best free things to do in Isla Mujeres!
15. Go Fishing in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a popular destination for fishing, and you can find several charter companies that offer half-day and full-day trips.
This private fishing trip from Isla Mujeres is a great option for outdoorsy families. You’ll head a few miles out from the coast for several hours trolling for fish on a private boat.
Depending on the season, cast your line for barracuda, snapper, grouper, and other local fish species.
Get fishing advice from your dedicated captain, snack on food and beverages onboard, and soak up the sun as you sail away in the clear waters around Isla Mujeres.
16. Catch the Sunset at Playa Sol
If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to watch the sunset, head to Playa Sol on Isla Mujeres.
This beach is located just next to Playa Norte, but it’s slightly less crowded because the water isn’t quite as clear.
But that doesn’t mean it’s any less gorgeous! You can order a cocktail and watch as the sun goes down over the water.
You don’t get to see sunsets like this from the mainland so watching the sunset in Isla Mujeres really shouldn’t be missed!
17. Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is an eco-friendly way to explore the waters around Isla Mujeres and get a great workout too!
It’s a fun water sport that provides a low-intensity workout by challenging your core, upper body strength, balance, and stability. Plus, standup paddleboarding is suitable for most ages and activity levels.
In Isla Mujeres, paddle boards can be rented from some of the beach clubs on the west side of the island.
If you are a beginner, the clear and calm waters around Isla Mujeres are a great place to start!
18. Grab Some Cheap Eats at the Mercado Municipal
If you’re looking for a cheap and delicious meal in Isla Mujeres, head to the Mercado Municipal for a taste of the Yucatan peninsula.
This local market is known for its inexpensive Mexican food, and you’ll find everything from fruits, vegetables, and fresh juices to prepared dishes like tacos, empanadas, tortas, and quesadillas.
The market is open daily from early morning until late afternoon, so you can stop by anytime for a quick bite for breakfast or lunch.
A casual spot with plastic tables and chairs, it’s also popular with locals, so you know the food is going to be good!
19. Ride a Bike Around the Island
Isla Mujeres is a small island, and it’s fairly easy to get around by bike.
Bike rentals on Isla Mujeres are inexpensive (around $10-$12 USD for the day) and can be rented from many rental shops near the ferry and in the downtown area.
With a bike rental, you can ride all over the island at your own pace, including to Punta Sur, the island’s eastern side, or up to Playa Norte.
Main roads can be busy with cars, taxis, and golf carts so you will want to ride carefully and be mindful of speed bumps. And be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water before heading out!
20. Charter a Private Yacht to Playa Norte
If you want the most EPIC experience in Isla Mujeres, then book a private yacht charter to Isla Mujeres Playa Norte!
A private yacht charter is a much more exclusive experience where you can ditch the crowds for a spacious yacht with a private captain and crew, open bar, and food and drink.
Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres is one of the best beaches in the world, and a private yacht is the most unforgettable way to experience its unbelievably bright turquoise waters.
Isla Mujeres charters are perfect for larger families, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or large groups of friends. It won’t come cheap but is worth every penny!
I’ve done this before for birthday celebrations with friends and it is always such a blast!
21. Admire the Isla Mujeres Street Art
Another thing that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Isla Mujeres is the unique street art.
Walking around Isla Mujeres, you’ll see colorful paintings of turtles, dolphins, and other sea creatures, as well as portraits and political statements.
The street art can be admired by simply walking around town where you’re likely to stumble upon some impressive sea wall murals.
22. Explore the Beaches on the East Side of the Island
One of the most non-touristy things to do in Isla Mujeres is to explore the beaches of the east side of the island for some Isla Mujeres sightseeing.
Golf cart rentals in Isla Mujeres are the best way to get around and gives you the freedom to explore the entire island at leisure.
On the east side of the island, you can see rugged beaches, stop at the picturesque seaside chapel known as Capilla de Guadalupe, or spot the noteworthy Shell House (one of the most famous AirBnBs in the world).
The beaches in Isla Mujeres on the east side of the island are the complete opposite to the Playa Norte beaches with rough waves and rocky cliffs.
While not suitable for swimming, they’re still beautiful to look at and make for a great Isla Mujeres day trip.
23. Watch the Sunrise at Punta Sur Cliff
For early risers, watching the sunrise at Punta Sur Cliff on Isla Mujeres is an incredible experience.
In fact, it’s the eastern most part of Mexico and the first place where the light of the sun touches the country.
Punta Sur Cliff attracts Isla Mujeres travelers, photographers, and yoga enthusiasts to gather every morning to watch the sun come up over the horizon.
As the sun slowly rises, the colors change and reflect off the water. It’s a truly stunning sight that you won’t want to miss if you can bear to get up that early!
Is Isla Mujeres Safe for Tourists?
Isla Mujeres is generally safe for tourists, but there are a few things to be careful of in Isla Mujeres to stay safe while visiting.
While the crime rate is relatively low on Isla Mujeres, there have been some reports of petty theft and pickpocketing, so it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings when out and about or when visiting a beach club.
You’ll also want to use common sense and be on alert for common tourist scams such as overcharging.
Overall, as long as you take basic safety precautions, Isla Mujeres is a safe and enjoyable place to visit.
🚨 Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by clicking here!
Visiting Isla Mujeres: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Isla Mujeres:
Isla Mujeres is definitely worth visiting! This charming island off the coast of Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere.
The island of Isla Mujeres is a commercialized vacation destination and although the island is less than 5 miles long, it’s home to plenty of restaurants, shops, homes, Isla Mujeres hotels, and all-inclusive resorts.
Aside from its beautiful beaches and clear turquoise waters, Isla Mujeres is also a “pueblo magico”, or magical town. This official designation is given to towns in Mexico that are considered to be particularly special or charming.
For tourists, Isla Mujeres can be visited from mainland Mexico by taking the Ultramar ferry from Puerto Juarez on the coast of Cancun. The ferry terminal is located about 25 minutes from the Cancun Airport.
Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres Mexico
As you can see from this list of fun things to do in Isla Mujeres, there is plenty to see and do on the island!
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed vacation, Isla Mujeres offers a great mix of relaxation and adventure.
My top pick for the best thing to do in Isla Mujeres is simply to relax on Playa Norte! This beach is the real highlight of the island and really shouldn’t be missed.
But if you’re looking for a little more adventure, then I would highly recommend going on a catamaran sail or snorkeling at the MUSA Underwater Museum of Art.
Plus, the cliffside park at Punta Sur is definitely a hidden gem and one of my favorite spots on the island.
But no matter which of these best Isla Mujeres activities you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time on this beautiful and charming island!
Now that you know what to do on Isla Mujeres, which activities are you adding to your Isla Mujeres things to do list?!
🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨 Hotels: I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗 Rental Cars: I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!
🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
