We were in sunny Cancun for about three days and wanted to do some more exploring of other cities in Mexico. While walking the strip in downtown Cancun, we noticed a ferry sign that advertised taking you to Isla Mujeres for the day. So we stopped in and got the details, times of the ferry and what the city had to offer and decided we would visit Isla Mujeres for a day trip.
As we got to the pier to prepare for the trip we were greeted by a bartender that offered us some alcohol laden coconuts (coconut water and tequila) that were delicious (not free of course) but was a nice start to the trip. We then saw the ferry coming in and lined up to get on board. Before we boarded the ferry our photo was taken at the deck (was later available for purchase). We got seated on the ferry and it took off for a 15-20 minute ride, splashing through the waves as the seas were a bit rough that day. We were also serenaded on aboard as entertainment.Â
Isla Mujeres is just off the coast of Cancun and it’s a very small island that is only 5 miles long. It is filled with beautiful beaches, tons of shopping and restaurants to explore. It’s also known for stellar snorkeling and scuba diving. Although we were there for a day, we decided to focus on enjoying authentic local eats and touring the island.
We decided to go see what tours were available upon arrival, and ended up renting a go cart for the day and explored the island on our own with suggestions of must see spots from the go cart company. We drove around the island stopping at various beaches, shopped here and there and then landed on a breakfast restaurant that is known more to the locals than the tourist, that was recommended by a local we met on the street, which turned out to be one of the best breakfast meals we had during our entire stay in Mexico.
There are many other dining and entertainment options that can be found on Hildago Street, a cobble stone pedestrian walkway with boutiques and restaurants reminiscent of Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue. One of the things we did discover was that the shopping and dining seemed to be more reasonable there than in Cancun. Even though it rained off and on during the day, riding around in the go cart and getting hit by the rain and wind actually made the ride more fun.
So if you are in the Cancun or Cozumel area, hop on the ferry and head to Isla Mujeres. There is lots to explore!
