Last year, I took a short trip to Isla Holbox, an island north of Cancun, Mexico known for its laid-back vibes and natural beauty. It is part of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo and is situated in the Yum Balam Nature Reserve. Before going, I had no idea what to expect and I was still recovering from surgery, but it turned out to be the perfect first post-operation vacation.
How to Get to Isla Holbox
Getting to the island isn’t difficult, but you need to give yourself plenty of time. Sammi and I flew directly from Atlanta to Cancun, where a private shuttle was waiting for us to take us to the ferry dock. There are dozens of companies that offer this and you can book when you arrive.
The drive took around two hours on bumpy backroads, made better by the cervezas we were offered. When we got to the ferry dock, there were two ticket companies running on alternating half hours. We picked the soonest, a return ticket price of around $13 USD.
The ferry was only around 30 minutes and was fairly crowded but we found seats on the top deck to take in the views. When the ferry arrived on Isla Holbox, we were met with a representative from our hotel, but if we were to go again, we’d rent a golf cart from one of the many operators as it’s the best way to get around. There are also golf cart taxis.
What to Do on Isla Holbox
One of the main draws to Isla Holbox is its diverse wildlife, including birdwatchers, who come during the migration season when flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other birds can be spotted. It’s also known for the chance to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world, which gather in the waters around Holbox from May to September.
Holbox Village is a charming and colorful town with sandy streets, small shops, and local restaurants. There are no cars on the island, contributing to its tranquil and eco-friendly atmosphere. Transportation is mainly by golf carts or bicycles as there are limited vehicles on the island.
There aren’t a lot of traditional attractions, apart from the underwater variety. But I had heard about Refugio Animal Holbox before we went. The animal shelter allows visitors to stop by and play with dogs, take them for a walk, and even adopt them to bring home. They accept donations if you’re unable to adopt as well.
The island is also covered in colorful murals so you could spend a day just scoping them out.
Where to Eat on Isla Holbox
Most of our meals were at the resort we were staying at (more on that soon), but we did venture out a bit to try some bites around town. At La Bamba Marisquería Jarocha, we had incredibly fresh ceviche and delicious cocktails overlooking the town.
Mr. Happy is one of the trendy spots and was busy each time we walked past, serving breakfast and brunch in an open-air space. We also enjoyed a coffee and took a bag home from Alta Nota, a regional coffee roaster.
Where to Stay on Isla Holbox
The reason for my trip was to write about St. Somewhere, a resort on the quiet western side of the island, where you’ll find the bioluminescent bay and nearly empty beaches. The Jimmy Buffet-backed resort has since changed hands, now called NÁAY Boutique Hotel, so I can’t exactly recommend it. But the meals we had were delicious and the accommodations were beautiful.
Instead, you can stay at one of the many rentals, hotels, and campsites scattered around the island. Casa Las Tortugas Petit Beach Hotel & Spa offers luxurious palapa-style rooms with an onsite pool and easy beach access.
Mapache Hostel & Camping is great for budget travelers, with A-frame cabins and covered campsites. Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort is a stylish design-forward hotel with all the bells and whistles.
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