Isla Holbox Mexico Tips and Highlights: a Visitors´ Guide
Planning a Trip to Isla Holbox Mexico? Here’s all you need to know about Isla Holbox Mexico. I have been there several times, and as I am writing this, I have just returned from an amazing weekend on the island with some friends, in this post, I will tell you my top travel tips and all the news about this tiny but busy island of Mexico.
Having lived in Cancun for years, I’ve visited Holbox multiple times, and each visit brought something new to love—whether it was a hidden gem of a restaurant, a picturesque spot, or a unique experience that added to my appreciation of this island.
The island was once the ideal escape from the chaos of Tulum—a true hidden gem. While it has grown in popularity, it still maintains its laid-back charm. If you’re looking for an alternative off-the-beaten-path destination, I’d recommend visiting El Cuyo before it turns into the next Tulum.
Despite its increased popularity, Holbox’s allure remains undeniable. Between its pristine beaches, a variety of water activities, stunning hotels, and incredible food, there’s plenty to enjoy here.
My favorite areas are Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquitos, which happen to be on the extreme opposite sides of the island. I will talk more about both areas in this post.
Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy my privacy policy.
Where is Isla Holbox
Holbox Island sits within the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Nature Reserve, a protected area covering over 154,000 acres of coastal and marine territory in northern Quintana Roo. The reserve was established in 1994 thanks to the efforts of local Mayan communities who aimed to preserve this untouched paradise rich in biodiversity and cultural history.
Yum Balam is home to Holbox, Chiquilá, and surrounding villages like Solferino, San Ángel, and Kantunilkin. While fishing and tourism are the main economic activities in Holbox and Chiquilá, agriculture and melipona honey production are important in nearby communities.
From May to September, Yum Balam becomes the largest whale shark gathering site on the planet. By 2009, it was officially declared a Whale Shark Sanctuary, reinforcing the community-led efforts to regulate respectful marine tourism that began in the early 2000s.
This protected area also supports over 420 bird species—35% of which are migratory—as well as endangered animals like jaguars, tapirs, crocodiles, and hawksbill turtles. The marine environment is equally rich, home to countless species of fish, crustaceans, and shellfish.
Important: Flying drones in Holbox and the Yum Balam Reserve is strictly prohibited without a specific permit from CONANP (Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas), which manages the reserve. Unauthorized drone use can disrupt wildlife and carries legal consequences.
Getting to Isla Holbox, Mexico
Holbox is easily accessible from Cancun by car or bus.
- By car: Approx. 2 hours to Chiquilá, followed by a short ferry ride. You will find a lot of parking spaces in Chiquila’ for as little as 100 MXN per day (5 USD)
- By bus: Approx. 3 hours to Chiquilá.
Amazing free things to do in Isla Holbox Mexico
1. Hang out in Punta Cocos
When I went the first time, I was lucky to see a few pink flamingos hanging out close to the shore, but they are not always there.
However this area is one of my favorites for multiple reasons: it’s secluded and fewer people go there, with the right winds, it’s a great spot for swimming, the perfect place to watch the sunset and in some occasions you can watch the bioluminescence at night.
Punta Cocos is located about 1.5 miles south of the town, and you will need either a bike, a golf cart, or a taxi to get there. There are a couple of shacks and a beach club if you want to get something to drink and eat or bring them home.
Once you get to the end of the road, when you meet the water, you should park your bike or cart and keep walking south until the end of the beach. There you will find the most beautiful pristine waters and if you are lucky a colony of flamingoes, sunbathing on the horizon.
In that area you can also see the bioluminescence at night, if it’s the right time. Since it’s caused by those critters that are usually food for whale sharks, the best time of the year to see them is summer, from June through September, when is also whale shark season.
In case you see flamingoes, please do not get too close because they are very reserved animals, and they get scared if humans get too close, disrupting their natural behavior.
2. Take a walk on the bank of sands
Opposite Punta Cocos on the other side of the island, right in front of the prestigious hotel Las Nubes, a 2 km long bank of sand emerges when there is low tide. It’s a silent and peaceful walk while the turquoise water surrounds you, it seems surreal.
Remember to check the tide before going so you don’t get trapped in the middle of the sea when the water rise. It would only take 1 to 2 hours to go and back depending on how many times you would stop to take pictures.
3. Check out the colorful and inspiring Holbox murals
The pretty tiny village of Holbox is painted in multicolor beautiful murals representing the island life and wildlife and brightening up the otherwise dull white walls.
They have become an icon of the island and, for sure, one of the highlights of this top-rated Mexican destination.
You can’t miss them while you walk around town heading to your tour or dinner, but it’s worth setting up an itinerary just to spot all the beautiful murals and take a selfie with these joyous backgrounds.
4. Watch the sunset
Sunsets in Holbox are memorable and there is nothing better than ending your day on a beautiful beach watching the sun go down and the beautifully painted sky. If you also have booked a hotel on the beach on a higher floor the show is even more spectacular.
The Best Sunsets are in Punta Cocos and you can also stay there right after, and just before the moon rises, to look for the bioluminescence.
5. Rent a golf cart or a bike
The best way to move around Holbox along the unpaved roads is by bike or golf cart, or you can call a taxi, but they are not always available when you need them.
If you have your own vehicle you will be free to move around at your pace without depending on anyone. I have rented a bike for my entire stay because I love to explore. And it also helped to fight the heat.
Cart rental costs: 200 MXN/hr (min 2 hours) I Bike rental cost: 20 MXN/ hour
If you wish to get the bike for the entire stay or an entire day it’s way more convenient than renting it per the hour.
6. Have lunch on the beach
All along the coast on the beautiful white sand beach, you can find many different restaurants that are also Beach Clubs where you can pay a fee for the day to use the beach chairs and facilities. The amount will be used to pay for your meal.
My favorite spot was inside the Hotel Mawimbi, which also has spectacular rooms.
7. Swim with the whale shark (seasonal)
One of the most popular boat tours is to go swimming with the whale sharks, and originally the only reason why somebody would go to Holbox.
It’s not like that anymore because you can easily join a whale sharks tour from Cancun or Isla Mujeres as well. While in Holbox you can enjoy many other activities and explore the surrounding nature or just relax on the beach.
8. Admire the local wildlife
There are local tours that you can join and you can book them either from one of the local agencies that you find in town or from the reception of your hotel.
I am sure they will be happy to assist you. Tours normally take you to Isla de los Pajaros (bird islands) known for the bird’s colonies that breed right there, and Isla de la Passion where you can also find other birds.
9. Take a dip in Yalahau cenote
Yalahu cenote is a natural sinkhole surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s located on the mainland, but you can only reach it by boat. Normally, the three island tours include a visit to the cenote.
10. Experience the incredible bioluminescence phenomenon
There are many kayaking tours to take you on an amazing night adventure around the island to see the bioluminescence phenomenon in the water not far from the shore.
11. Take a boat tour around the island
This most complete tour includes the Isla de los Pajaros, Isla de la Passion, and a stop at the Yalahu cenote. It’s a full-day tour immersed in nature, and you will also have the opportunity to spend some time on untouched beaches and swim in even more transparent waters.
12. Should you wish to pre-book your tours
If you have only a couple of days in Holbox, you might want to make sure you book your tour in advance in order to not miss anything. See a few amazing options here below.
1-day tours to Holbox from Cancun and the Riviera Maya
In case you are not planning to stay in Holbox overnight but wish to take a day tour of the island from wherever you are vacationing, you can do that too.
You could do it on your own, but in order to save time, I would suggest you take a one-day tour that usually includes transportation to Chiquila’ and a boat tour to Holbox and then Holbox Cancun back to your hotel.
I warn you it is going to be a very long day but all worth it.
What’s the best time to visit Holbox
Winters are cooler, with a gentle breeze that makes the heat more bearable. Rain is less frequent but possible.
Having said that it is a destination all year round, but if I had to choose I would go in June, exactly when I went the last time.
In June, it’s still not extremely hot, and you still have the opportunity to take a tour to swim with the whale sharks, which are around only from June through the beginning of September, and it’s something you don’t want to miss.
How to get to Holbox
Regardless of where you are coming from, you would need to get to Chiquila’ to take the ferry.
Getting to Chiquila’ by car
From Cancun to Holbox (Chiquilà) it’s about 2 hours drive if have your own car, 2hrs 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen, and 3 hrs from Tulum.
Once you arrive in Chiquilà, you will need to find a car park where you will need to leave the car for the entire time you are in Holbox since vehicles are not allowed on the island.
There are privately owned parking lots where they charge around 200 MXN per day, which you would pay at the end of the service when you go and pick up your car.
They are normally reliable, but it’s better not to leave any of your belonging in the car, just to be on the safe side.
Getting to Chiquila’ by bus
If you are traveling by bus there are buses from Cancun Playa del Carmen and Tulum or Merida or even directly from Cancun Airport you can check the times and prices on the ADO site the local transportation company. Rates vary depending on the time of the day.
The bus from Cancun would take around 3 hours to get to Chiquila’, sometimes longer.
Private transportation to Chiquila’
If you want your own private transportation, this is possible too. You could either hire a taxi or book with a travel agent. This company offers private luxury transportation from Cancun airport to Chiquila’.
Ferry Chiquila’ Holbox
From Chiquila’ there are two companies that run the ferry to Holbox at alternate times. You don’t have to worry because there are boats all day long. Here below in the pictures, you can find the schedule.
However, if you are a group of 5 or 6 it will be more convenient to hire a fishing boat to take you at your desired time, and if you have time, for a few extra dollars they include a tour around the island.
Read also: How to get to Isla Holbox where I explain it in more details
Where to stay in Holbox
If I think about Holbox a decade ago, I cannot believe how much it has developed over the years.
I remember that there was only one exclusive hotel, Las Nubes, which used to have outrageous rates, and only a few other very rustic small hotels. Nothing in between.
Now, you can find here many different hotels of any budget and style, but luckily, they haven’t managed to build the huge all-inclusive giants that you find in Cancun.
Here is a totally different concept of hospitality and architecture. And that’s one of the things that make Holbox a very special place.
My top favorite hotels are still the most expensive ones but nothing they are not anywhere close to the outrageous prices of Cancun. Here is my top selection:
Casa Punta Cocos – Adult-only luxury boutique hotel – quiet and laid-back. You will love the cozy rooms, friendly staff, chef-prepared meals, and the peaceful beach. It feels more like staying at a friend’s place than a hotel, with ocean views and plenty of spots to relax.
Aparthotel Onda Maya – Adults Only – It’s a quiet spot just a short walk from Playa Holbox. It offers modern, apartment-style stays with full kitchens, comfy living areas, and a pool view. Guests love the peaceful vibe, the pool and garden area, and the convenience of having everything they need—including Wi-Fi and AC. Bike rentals and tours are available if you feel like exploring.
Mid-range Hotel
Hotel Mawimbi
This pretty hotel little hotel is located in the heart of Holbox right on the beach on a beautiful stretch of sand and close to all the restaurants and bars. The rooms are beautifully decorated with colorful pieces of art. The beach bar and restaurant provide a cozy corner for your delicious meals on the beach. Beach chairs are available as well for the hotel guests to use.
Check rates & availability for HOTEL MAWIMBI
Look for more hotels on this interactive Map
Where to eat in Holbox
There are so many restaurants in Holbox that you really have one for each day, although I kept going to the same one, Painapol, for my breakfast and lunch, as it was particularly cozy.
If you are vegan or vegetarian, this is the place for you. Too bad is only open for breakfast and lunch, until 4 pm.
Otherwise, there are many other great options for dinner, too.
Here below, I am listing a few.
Painapol
As I mentioned before this was my favorite spot in Holbox, for its delicious breakfast and lunch and great vegan choices. Forgive me if I am repeating myself but I wanted to make sure you didn’t skip it. You will thank me later.
Read the reviews on TripAdvisor
Arte Sano
A cozy little restaurant with an internal patio. I had the best vegan hamburger and juice there. The friendly staff is awesome too.
Read the reviews on TripAdvisor
Fresco bar and grill
For the seafood lovers this is the perfect spot, be it for lunch or dinner, Fresco bar is the best-rated beach restaurant for the amazing location and the world-class cuisine. They do have vegan options as well and they are open for breakfast too
Read the reviews on TripAdvisor
Le Jardin Panaderia Cafeteria
I didn’t try this place just because I loved the Painapol, but it was close to my hotel and always crowded. It must have been good and the reviews confirmed it, so I have included it here. Only open for breakfast.
Read the reviews on TripAdvisor
Luuma
A trendy place for your night in Holbox. Great Mexican food in an elegant casual-chic environment. Very popular for dinner and drinks.
Read the reviews on TripAdvisor
How to move around in Holbox
In Holbox, there are no cars, except for some trucks. People move around on golf carts or bikes. Also, there are no paved roads, so expect a lot of dust, especially if it doesn’t rain.
And you can do it too. You could even walk around the center, but in order to reach the beautiful beaches and the best spots, it would be too hot.
I rented a bike for the entire time I was there, and it was perfect. If you want to be more comfortable, a golf cart would do for you.
Bike rental for 1 day should be around 200/250 MXN
Golf Cart for 1 day is around 1200 /1500 MXN
You can also rent by the hours
Although it’s a car-free island, you will find super modern taxis that are like motorized golf carts. You will find a lot at your arrival at the harbor, or you can ask your host to book one for you or give you the number of their recommended drivers.
FAQ about traveling to Holbox
Are there a lot of mosquitos in Holbox?
Yes, there are. Although during the rainy seasons, there are more, and it’s almost impossible to stay on the beach at sunrise or sunset, you will find them also in the dry season. I am afraid. Use a good repellent, but keep in mind that it may not work.
OFF! Botanicals Deet-Free Insect Repellent, Plant-Based Bug Spray & Mosquito Repellent, 4 oz
6885 4.5-⭐️ Reviews
Is Isla Holbox expensive?
It all depends on your standards. I don’t think Holbox is more expensive than Cancun or Playa del Carmen. You will find cheap rooms and expensive luxury stay.
Is Isla Holbox worth visiting?
In my opinion, Holbox is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the Yucatan peninsula. If you love beach life and bohemian culture that is still not overdeveloped and preserves its charm and authenticity, this is your place. I hope it won’t change. So, yes, Holbox is definitely worth visiting.
How do you pronounce Isla Holbox?
You would pronounce as in “hole”- “bosh”.
Is Isla Holbox safe?
It is a very small island where all the locals pretty much know each other.
So, yes we can say that Holbox is safe indeed, so far, if you don’t count petty crime just like anywhere else in the world.
Just bring your commonsense with you when you travel and you are just fine:
- Don’t leave your valuables unattended either on the beach or on your golf cart or on the chair at the restaurant.
- Don’t leave your laptop or valuable object close to the window of your home.
- Just don’t be naive
It’s a small village where everything is pretty much under control, especially with the navy base on the island.
So, no worries, and start packing.
Which is better, Isla Mujeres or Holbox?
If a couple of decades ago it would have been a very difficult question to answer, now I can tell you without a doubt that Holbox is 100% much better than Isla Mujeres, for the above-mentioned reasons. It’s still preserving its original vibe of a fishing village even with the developments of new restaurants and hotels; it’s still a cute, laid-back, clean place with spectacular deserted white sand beaches.
But that is just my opinion. If you disagree, I would love for you to leave a comment below and let me know.
Does Holbox have seaweed?
While I am writing, there are no seaweeds on Holbox beaches, and also, in the past, when the Riviera Maya had to face the Sargasso issue, Isla Holbox was Sargasso-free.
Can I drink tap water in Holbox?
Absolutely NOT. In all of Mexico, tap water is undrinkable. It’s not deadly, but if you don’t want to risk spending your vacation sitting on a toilet, I would suggest you should use bottled water.
If you want to use environment-friendly practices, take your water bottle with you and refill it. Remember to keep hydrated in such hot weather. Or use a water-to-go filter bottle and drink from tap water.
WATER-TO-GO FILTER BOTTLE
✔ kills 99.99% of bacteria of all sorts, illness-causing contaminants, including those as small as a virus, pesticides and nitrates, heavy metals…
✔ available in different shapes sizes and colors
✔ easy to use
✔ three month shelf life in total
✔ Better protection for you and the planet. The filter replaces 400 plastic bottles, and the bottle is made from sugarcane.
What should I wear in Isla Holbox?
Holbox is a very laid-back island where you can hang out all day in your simple beachwear unless you love to go fancy all the time. It’s really up to you.
There are nice restaurants where you might love to show off your pretty dress for dinner, but remember, it’s no place for heels.
There are a few things though that you cannot do without, such as a good (ecofriendly) sunscreen, a nice beach towel, mosquito repellent, an ID if you want to rent a golf cart, a hat, a camera. Good Vibes!
