I've been to Cancún countless times — but I prefer this quieter island about 30 minutes away
I enjoy visiting Cancún, but I've been looking for a place that offers the same clear water with fewer crowds. I found it on an island, Isla Mujeres.
Isla Mujeres, an island situated just 30 minutes away from Cancún, has become a preferred destination for those seeking a quieter, more tranquil beach getaway. Kaila Yu, a traveler who frequents Cancún, discovered Isla Mujeres while on the lookout for a similar spot with fewer crowds and less nightlife.
Upon arriving on the island, Yu was immediately captivated by the gorgeous food and stunning views. The island's atmosphere provided a much-needed escape from the bustling crowds, loud music, and traffic she encountered in Cancún. The island's size also played a significant role in its appeal, as it was much smaller than Cancún's Hotel Zone, measuring just 5 miles long.
Access to Isla Mujeres is easy, with a 30-minute boat ride from Cancún and a short ferry ride for those wishing to stay longer. The island offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. Yu opted for an all-inclusive resort that provided a catamaran ride from Cancún, with the option to take a ferry for under $20 (one way).
Yu's journey began upon boarding the catamaran, where she found a comfortable spot next to the captain and enjoyed the scenic boat ride. Along the way, she noted the possibility of spotting dolphins, though they were not visible on her trip. As soon as she disembarked, Yu immersed herself in exploring the island, admiring the brightly colored homes painted in hues like banana yellow and aquamarine, as well as watching cute iguanas sunbathe.
One of the island's major attractions is the Mayan goddess Ixchel statue at Punta Sur, located at the southern tip of the island. Yu also visited other popular Instagrammable spots and monuments, such as the whale shark swimming area. Whale sharks are known to visit Isla Mujeres between summer and early fall, making it a prime location for ethical swimming experiences.
The local regulations protect both the animals and their environment, making Isla Mujeres one of the best places in the world to swim with these gentle creatures.
In addition to whale sharks, Isla Mujeres offers excellent opportunities for scuba diving. While Yu did not have the chance to dive during her visit, she plans to explore the MUSA Underwater Museum, a site featuring hundreds of life-sized underwater sculptures. The island boasts several white-sand beaches, with Playa Norte being her favorite, located on the northern tip of the island.
Yu's favorite dish from her trip was tikin xic, a seafood dish marinated in Mayan-style achiote paste and spices, served whole. Other local must-tries include cochinita pibil and marquesita, a fried, crepe-like wrap filled with cheese. With its turquoise waters, less crowded atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, Isla Mujeres is the perfect alternative to Cancún and Tulum for those seeking a relaxing, nature-filled beach experience.
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