Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres: Top Picks and Insider Tips (2023)

Isla Mujeres, a stunning slice of paradise just 13 km off the Yucatan Peninsula, offers a dreamy escape for travelers seeking sun-kissed beaches and underwater adventures. This tiny yet vibrant island boasts pristine white sand shores, shimmering turquoise waters, and a lively atmosphere that you’ll surely fall in love with. It’s no wonder that so many people are attracted to this gem in the Riviera Maya, which has the perfect combination of relaxation and excitement.

With a multitude of accommodation options available, finding the ideal place to stay at Isla Mujeres can be just as delightful as exploring the island itself. From luxurious resorts with world-class amenities to budget-friendly hostels that won’t break the bank, there’s something to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a returning island addict, you’ll find that Playa Norte, Meteorológico, and Punta Sur are among the top recommended neighborhoods to base your stay.

While enjoying the blissful serenity of Isla Mujeres, don’t miss the chance to partake in some exciting activities such as snorkeling in Garrafon Natural Reef Park, swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery, or simply lounging on the picturesque beaches that have put this island on the map. Ultimately, Isla Mujeres is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences and memories waiting to be discovered by every kind of traveler.

What Makes Isla Mujeres Unique

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island getaway off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, known for its pristine white sand beaches and glittering turquoise waters. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Fun Fact or Interesting Story

Did you know that Isla Mujeres got its name from the Spanish explorers who found the island in the 16th century? They named it “Isla Mujeres,” which translates to “Island of Women,” due to the numerous statues of goddesses they discovered at a Mayan temple on the island.

Things to do

There is no shortage of activities for you to enjoy during your stay in Isla Mujeres. With the island’s diverse attractions, you can create the perfect vacation tailored to your interests. Here are a few popular things to do:

• Beach time: Visit Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, known for its soft sands and calm, crystal-clear waters. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
• Swim with whale sharks: Isla Mujeres is famous for providing unique experiences like swimming with whale sharks, gentle giants who feed on plankton near the island between May and September.
• Explore the island: Hop on a golf cart and explore all that Isla Mujeres has to offer. Drive to Punta Sur, the southernmost point of the island, to discover the stunning cliffs and take in breathtaking ocean views.
• Underwater adventures: Take a snorkeling or diving trip and discover the colorful underwater world of Isla Mujeres. The island is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system globally, offering incredible biodiversity and unforgettable experiences.

Remember, these are just a few of the many activities that you can enjoy during your stay in Isla Mujeres. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique island paradise!

Beachfront Hotels

Isla Mujeres is a stunning destination with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. When choosing a place to stay, beachfront hotels offer the best views and easy access to the gorgeous coastlines. In this section, we’ll cover three popular beach areas: Playa Norte, Playa Paraiso, and Playa Lancheros.

Playa Norte

Playa Norte is known for its powdery white sand and azure waters. It’s a great location for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Some of the best beachfront hotels in this area include:

• Ixchel Beach Hotel: A top choice with modern amenities, Ixchel Beach Hotel is perfect for those who want to be close to plenty of restaurants, bars, and markets. More information here.
• Nautibeach Beach Front Condos: Located along the stunning Playa Norte, these condos offer a cozy, home-like stay with access to a private beach area. Find out more.

Playa Paraiso

Located on the southern end of the island, Playa Paraiso is well-known for its natural beauty and tranquility, making it the perfect spot for relaxation or a romantic getaway.

• Hotel Belo Isla Mujeres: A modern, luxurious option for any budget, Hotel Belo has elegant rooms, including an all-inclusive presidential suite. Five-star amenities await your stay. Discover more here.

Playa Lancheros

Playa Lancheros is a beautiful spot for family trips, with quiet beaches and various attractions nearby. Some beachfront hotels in this area include:

• Izla Beach Front Hotel: A garden, restaurant, and sun terrace with swimming pool make Izla Beach Front Hotel a fantastic choice. Beachfront rooms with plunge pools are available. Check out their website.

Fun Fact or Interesting Story: Isla Mujeres got its name from the ancient Maya, who believed the island was home to the goddess of childbirth and medicine, Ixchel. They built temples to honor her on the island’s southern tip, which you can still explore today!

Things to do: During your stay at any of these beachfront hotels, be sure to embark on island activities like snorkeling or scuba diving through crystal-clear waters, visiting the breathtaking Garrafon Natural Reef Park, or exploring the charming downtown area with its colorful shops, galleries, and local markets.

Boutique Hotels

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island with a variety of charming boutique hotels to choose from. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best options for your stay, whether you prefer the bustling downtown area or a quieter retreat.

Downtown

When staying in downtown Isla Mujeres, the following boutique hotels are noteworthy options:

• Hotel Boutique Skulls Landing: Located by the beach with beautiful sunset views, this hotel offers spacious and elegantly designed rooms with comfy beds. Enjoy the on-site bar and restaurant, as well as the convenient proximity to local attractions.
• Boutique Hotel Bahia Tolok: This centrally located hotel in Mid-Island Bay features 12 charming rooms with comfortable beds and authentic island design touches. Relax by the pool, sip a drink at the poolside bar, or dine at the on-site restaurant.

Quiet Areas

If you’re searching for a more tranquil experience, consider these boutique hotels in quieter areas of Isla Mujeres:

• Casa de los Sueños: This boutique hotel, set on the tropical island, boasts swimming pools, massage service, and direct access to the Caribbean Sea. Some suites even have private balconies with stunning sea views.
• Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres: Indulge in an all-inclusive experience at this luxury boutique hotel that offers picturesque views, exceptional service, and top-notch amenities.

Fun Fact or Interesting Story

Did you know that Isla Mujeres is named “Island of Women” due to the numerous statues of women that were discovered by Spanish explorers in the 16th century? These statues were part of the Mayan civilization’s religious practices and are still a unique part of the island’s history today.

Things to do

While staying at any of these boutique hotels, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore the island and its various activities. Some popular things to do include:

• Snorkeling or scuba diving at Garrafon Natural Reef Park
• Visiting Punta Sur, the easternmost point of Mexico
• Exploring the Women’s Beading Cooperative, an organization that supports women artisans on the island

Budget-Friendly Options

When planning a trip to Isla Mujeres, there are various options for budget-friendly accommodations. In this section, we will discuss hostels and vacation rentals that offer great value without breaking the bank.

Hostels

If you’re looking for a low-cost stay with a lively atmosphere and opportunity to meet fellow travelers, hostels can be a fantastic choice. One popular hostel in Isla Mujeres is Nomads Hotel, Hostel, & Beach Club, where a shared room costs around $30 a night. The club features a wide variety of activities like a pool bar, sunbeds, and hammocks for you to relax and engage with others.

Vacation Rentals

In addition to hostels, vacation rentals can offer great value for your Isla Mujeres stay. These more private accommodations can be found on various platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com. Prices vary depending on the size and location of the property, but there are definitely options to suit modest budgets.

Fun Fact or Interesting Story

Did you know that Isla Mujeres got its name from the Spanish explorers who found numerous statues of the Mayan goddess Ixchel on the island? The island was dedicated to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility and the moon, and was therefore named “Isla Mujeres,” meaning “Island of Women.”

Things to do

Apart from enjoying the beautiful beaches, there are numerous activities you can partake in while in Isla Mujeres. Some popular activities include:

• Visiting the Punta Sur Sculpture Garden and taking in the incredible views from the cliffs.
• Exploring the underwater world in the MUSA Underwater Museum.
• Swimming with whale sharks in the waters near Isla Mujeres during the summer months.

Whatever your accommodation preferences and budgets are, Isla Mujeres offers various options to make your stay enjoyable and memorable. Remember to always book in advance to get the best deals!

Luxury Resorts

Isla Mujeres is home to a variety of luxurious resorts that offer top-notch experiences for travelers seeking relaxation and indulgence. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best options for both all-inclusive and adults-only luxury resorts.

All-Inclusive

• Mia Reef Isla Mujeres: This all-inclusive resort is located on an exclusive beach surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, such as a spa, multiple pools, and themed restaurants.
• Privilege Aluxes: Another great option for all-inclusive luxury is Privilege Aluxes. This resort boasts luxurious rooms, a spa, beach club, and various dining options, while also offering a range of activities including snorkeling, fishing, and cultural experiences.

Adults-Only

• Zoetry Villa Rolandi: For a more intimate and serene experience, consider this adults-only boutique hotel which offers spacious suites, complete with private Jacuzzis on the balcony. Guests can also indulge in a state-of-the-art spa, a variety of dining options, and various water sports.
• Hotel Secreto: This adults-only hotel features 12 luxurious rooms, alongside opportunities for total relaxation in a tropical setting. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming with dolphins, and snorkeling on the reefs.

Fun Fact or Interesting Story: Isla Mujeres is home to the famous sculpture park, “MUSA” (Underwater Museum of Art), which features over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the ocean to create an artificial reef. Visitors can experience this unique attraction through snorkeling, scuba diving, or even a glass-bottomed boat tour.

Things to do: While staying at any of these luxury resorts, take advantage of the various activities offered on the island. This includes exploring the Punta Sur eco-park, visiting the Hacienda Mundaca ruins, or taking a day trip to nearby islands such as Isla Contoy for bird watching and pristine beaches.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Isla Mujeres is a perfect destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing vacation. There are several family-friendly accommodations on the island, with various amenities to cater to the needs of both parents and children.

One excellent option for families is Casa de los Sueños, a luxury all-suite hotel that offers exciting kid-friendly amenities such as a zip line, infinity pool, and a pint-sized water park with another pool.

For an all-inclusive experience, consider staying at Mia Reef Isla Mujeres. This resort provides various family-oriented activities, entertainment, and dining options that everyone will enjoy.

Other notable family-friendly hotels on Isla Mujeres include:

• Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun
• Bahia Chac Chi – Adults Only
• Hotel Isla Mujeres Cabanas Maria Del Mar
• Hotel Casa De Los Suenos Hotel Boutique
• Nomads Hotel & Beachclub Isla Mujeres
• Sol Caribe Aparthotel Isla Mujeres

Fun Fact or Interesting Story

Did you know that Isla Mujeres used to be a sanctuary for goddess Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of the moon, fertility, and medicine? This beautiful island is rich in history and legend.

Things to do

While staying on Isla Mujeres, there is no shortage of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• Swimming and snorkeling at Playa Norte, a stunning beach with crystal-clear water
• Exploring Punta Sur, a beautiful cliffside area with stunning views and a fascinating sculpture park
• Visiting Garrafon Natural Reef Park for zip-lining, snorkeling, and kayaking experiences
• Embarking on a family-friendly boat tour to explore the hidden gems of the island

With these accommodations and activities, families are sure to create unforgettable memories on their Isla Mujeres vacation!

Location Considerations

When choosing a place to stay in Isla Mujeres, there are some important factors to take into account. In this section we will discuss proximity to attractions and transportation options, helping you make a well informed decision for your trip.

Proximity to Attractions

Isla Mujeres is home to many exciting events, attractions, restaurants, and activities that visitors can take part in. Depending on your interests, you may want to consider staying near the following popular areas:

• Playa Norte: This is the best place for first-time visitors and offers easy access to beautiful beaches, restaurants, and shopping.
• Meteorológico: If you’re traveling on a budget, consider staying in this area which is more affordable while still being near popular attractions.
• Punta Sur: This is the ideal area for families as it offers a quieter atmosphere, more spacious accommodations, and family-friendly attractions.

Transportation Options

Getting around Isla Mujeres is relatively simple due to its compact size. However, it’s still important to consider the transportation options available near your chosen accommodation. Some popular options include:

• Walking: The island is small enough that you can walk to many attractions, particularly if you’re staying in the North End or downtown areas
• Golf Carts: These are a popular mode of transport for getting around Isla Mujeres, and many accommodations offer rentals or can help you arrange a rental.
• Taxis: If you prefer traditional transportation, taxis are readily available throughout the island.

Fun Fact or Interesting Story: Isla Mujeres is home to a unique underwater museum, MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte), which features over 500 sculptures submerged in the waters surrounding the island. This one-of-a-kind attraction offers an unforgettable experience for divers and snorkelers alike.

Things to do: During your stay on Isla Mujeres, take time to explore its beautiful beaches, visit the ancient Mayan temple at Punta Sur, go on a snorkeling or diving adventure, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and variety of dining options.

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Place to Stay

While there are many options to choose from when deciding where to stay on Isla Mujeres, it’s important to consider your priorities and preferences. Here are a few helpful tips to guide your decision-making process.

• Consider your budget: Staying on a budget is more manageable when you opt for the Meteorológico area, which offers affordable accommodation. On the other hand, if you do not mind spending a bit more, you can look into some upscale options like the Isla Mujeres Palace.
• Family travels: For those visiting with family, Punta Sur is a great area to stay as it is family-friendly and offers a good mix of activities for everyone to enjoy.
• First-time visitors: If it’s your first time on the island, it’s highly recommended to stay in Playa Norte, known as the best area for first-time visitors. Playa Norte has a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Romantic getaway: For couples seeking a romantic ambiance or an adults-only resort, consider booking a stay at Isla Mujeres Palace, offering an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

Fun Fact or Interesting Story

Did you know there’s a house near Isla 33 with coconuts painted red and gold hanging in the trees? It makes for a unique photo opportunity and is a quirky local sight to behold!

Things to do

While staying on the stunning island of Isla Mujeres, you can explore various activities such as:

• Relaxing on the beautiful beaches
• Visiting the turtle sanctuary
• Snorkeling or scuba diving
• Renting a golf cart to explore the island
• Enjoying the lively bars and restaurants