The Complete Guide to Isla Holbox

Tulum has seen world wide travel the past four years and it seems that the once off-grid bohemian escape is now a major tourism hub! If you’re looking to spend a few days locked away in paradise on an off-grid path in an actual authentic area, then you need to add Holbox to your destination. Isla Holbox is a small island in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. The island does not have all of the adventures of Cancun and Tulum but they make up for it with peaceful surroundings, hotels that are steps away from the beach, friendly locals, and beautiful views.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, which are at no cost to you. It just helps support me so I can continue to put out free content for you like this! Thank you for your support!

Best time to visit: 

March - May

Just like any Mexican destination. The area will get more crowded the hotter the months. I’m a strong advocate for off-peak travel because you not only dodge the crowds but you’re able to save much more money. Peak season is from June to August as those are traditionally the hottest months and when most people are able to travel. 

Transportation: 

This island is absolutely car-less. One can only get around by foot, bicycles, and golf carts. To get to the island, some are able to fly in through a private plane but if you want an option with much more character, I suggest taking an ADO bus from Cancun’s main bus station to Chiquilá. From there, you will get on a ferry that takes you to the island. The bus ride is about 2 ½ hours long and the ferry ride takes about 20 minutes. 

I recommend buying your bus tickets to and from in advance as they do book up. Ferry tickets are bought at the station and there are two ferry companies that operate in thirty-minute increments. 

Bus tickets range at about $17-$20 usd 

Ferry tickets range from $12-$15 usd

Weather: 

The climate will generally stay consistent from March to October but let me warn you all, it gets very HOT on the island. Pack extra sunscreen and bug spray to protect your skin. 

Language: 

Spanish

Although a lot of locals speak English as well, I still suggest arriving with as much Spanish as you can know. 

Currency: 

Pesos

As a word of advice the island has very few working ATM machines and they often run out of cash. Newer areas do accept cards such as the hotel I stayed at but it is recommended that you bring enough cash to last you for your entire duration. 

Where to Stay

Palapas Del Sol  

I stayed here during my time in Holbox and not only was my room extremely cozy and bohemian but the staff was very friendly and warm.    

Aldea Kuka

This is a beautifully designed hotel with amazing sea views and gorgeous architecture. 

This hotel is much closer to stores and other restaurants but the scenery is still as peaceful 

Click here for a full guide of the best hotels in Isla Holbox 

Restaurants/Bars: 

Amaite Hotel & Spa Restaurant

ALMA Bar 

Some of the best rooftop views on the island and delicious guacamole  

Mandarina Seaside Restaurant

Tierra Mia Juice & Coffee 

LUUMA 

A fancy and upscale bar with sophisticated drinks and food

Pura Vida Sushi & Roots Bar 

Painapol 

This Mexican restaurant has some of the best breakfast food on the island

The Notorious Cocktail 

The Hot Corner 


Things to Do: 

  1. Enjoy Drinks at a Rooftop Pool Bar

    The pool and lounge bar of the Hotel Villas Tiburon

  2. Relax at a Local Spa 

    You can check out the Casa Las Tortugas spa for a serene experience. An hour massage here is priced at about $75 usd or you can get some quality massages on the beach for half the price.

  3. Chill on the Hammocks 

  4. Take a Boat Tour to See Wildlife 

  5. Bike Along the Beach 

  6. Visit the Beautiful Murals 

    The wall murals and street art in Holbox are absolutely stunning. Block off about thirty minutes to walk around the town and appreciate the art.

  7. Indulge in Amazing Food 

  8. Watch the Sunsets Over the Beach 

  9. Take a Yoga Class 

    Although Holbox isn’t quite known for the wellness activities that Tulum has to offer, I was able to take a pretty great yoga class through Holbox Wellness

  10. Visit the Animal Rescue Sanctuary

    Refugio Animal Holbox rescues, re-homes, and cares for animals in the surrounding Holbox area. They are open from 10am until 6pm and can use donations, helping walking dogs, and cleaning the kennels.







Previous
Previous

The 7 Best Tips for Traveling With Natural Hair

Next
Next

Fun Things to do in Miami for Cheap!