Looking for the best things to do in Holbox? Whether you’re out exploring the island’s many natural wonders, swimming with whale sharks, or simply kicking back and enjoying the view, Isla Holbox has something to offer every traveler.
I absolutely love exploring Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula! From colorful towns and Mayan ruins to cenotes and jungle adventures, the area has so much beauty to discover. I’ve visited Tulum, Mayakoba, Valladolid, Merida and Laguna Bacalar to name a few… and I was so exited to add Isla Holbox to the list!
Isla Holbox is the ultimate destination for beach lovers seeking a tropical island paradise. There are many things to do in Holbox, and with glorious white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and breathtaking sunsets, it’s filled with natural beauty.
Now is the best time to cross Isla Holbox off of your bucket list and enjoy the peaceful beauty it has to offer. So, to make sure you get the most out of your Isla Holbox experience, I’ve put together a guide with everything you need to know to make the most of your time on this beautiful island, along with the best things to do in Holbox.
About Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is an ideal destination for feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, listening to the sounds of the Caribbean and letting go of all worries. Situated off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, this small island boasts crystal clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere that encourages rest and rejuvenation.
But Isla Holbox is more than just a beach paradise — it’s also a place where people can connect with nature and each other, whether it’s through yoga, eco-tours, or simply soaking up the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
As part of the Yum Balam Reserve, the island and its surrounding area is protected to preserve its flora, fauna, and wildlife. Flamingos, crocodiles, whale sharks and many more species call this area home making it a unique place to spot some incredible wildlife!
From snorkeling with colorful fish and whale sharks to watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico, there are endless opportunities to create lasting memories and have a truly transformative experience.
Where is Isla Holbox?
Isla Holbox is located off the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s part of Mexico’s state of Quintana Roo and, because of its location in a protected reserve, is known for its relaxing atmosphere and stunningly vibrant wildlife. With a combination of gorgeous white-sand beaches, picturesque sunsets, and enchanting ecological attractions, Isla Holbox is a popular destination for travelers to the Yucatan Peninsula.
How to Get to Isla Holbox
The best way to get to Isla Holbox is by car and then ferry to the island. The closest major airport is Cancun International Airport (CUN), which is just over two hours away by car. If you’re coming from Tulum, the journey would take about 2.5 – 3 hours total.
We were traveling from the Playa del Carmen area so we had a private driver take us to the ferry terminal in Chiquila, which took about 2 hours. Once you get to Chiquila, you can buy your ferry tickets at the ticket stand and the small ferry ride only takes about 25 minutes.
The ferries run about every 30 minutes and tickets for the ferry cost about 220 pesos (about $11 USD) one way. While we were there, we also were required to pay a nature reserve entrance fee which was a few dollars (this was only required on the way to Isla Holbox, not on the way out!).
If you’re looking for a more direct option, you can charter a private flight from Cancun to the island’s own Holbox International Airport (HIX). The flight takes just 35 minutes and planes can accommodate between 5 and 13 people with prices ranging from $800 – $1,300 (depending on the plane).
The Best Time to Visit Isla Holbox
Like many other beach destinations in this region of Mexico, you can expect beautiful, sunny weather through the months of November to April. During these months, the average temperatures are between 75 – 80° F and there is little chance of rain. During the holiday weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s, there are generally more visitors with higher hotel rates and flight prices.
Starting in May, the temperatures begin to soar to 80 – 90° F and continue to stay hot through the summer. Hurricane season starts in late May and lasts until late October, with the island getting the most rain in August through October.
Since Isla Holbox is one of the few places in the world where people can spot whale sharks, many visitors chose to visit during whale shark season. These majestic creatures can be found around the island from the beginning to June through mid-September.
How Long to Spend in Holbox
As for how long to spend in Holbox, that’s entirely up to you and what you hope to experience while you’re there. If you’re just looking to relax on the beach and soak up the island’s laid-back atmosphere, a long weekend might be all you need.
But if you want to really get a feel for the island and explore all it has to offer, such as snorkeling with whale sharks or visiting the nearby mangroves, a week might be more suitable.
If swimming with the whale sharks is on your bucket list, I’d plan at least a few days so you have more chances to see them in case they are elusive on your first try!
Many people visit Isla Holbox as part of a larger Yucatan trip; if this is your plan, definitely make sure to set aside at least a few days for this special island. Personally— since I’m coming all the way from California – I love visiting multiple destinations in the Yucatan when I visit!
Things to do in Holbox
Here comes the fun part! Holbox has so much to offer, and to make sure you don’t miss the best of the island, here’s a list of the best things to do in Holbox.
Swim with Whale Sharks
If you’re an adventure seeker, you can’t miss the chance to swim with the largest fish in the world. Holbox is one of the few places in the world where you can do this, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Tour the colorful wall murals
Holbox is home to a number of colorful wall murals that have been painted by local artists. These murals depict the island’s rich cultural heritage and are a great way to learn about the history and traditions of Holbox.
See the Bioluminescence at Night
Holbox is home to a unique natural phenomenon called bioluminescence, which is when the water glows blue at night. This is caused by tiny plankton that emits light when they are agitated. You can go on a fun boat tour or kayak through the mangroves to see this amazing sight.
Watch the Sunset at Playa Punta Cocos
This beach is located on the western side of the island and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. The view is breathtaking, with the sun sinking into the sea in a burst of orange and pink hues.
Take the “Three Islands” Boat Tour
This boat tour takes you to three small islands located off the coast of Holbox. You’ll get to snorkel in the crystal clear waters, relax on the white sandy beaches, and see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region.
Swim in Yalahau Cenote
A cenote is a natural pool of crystal clear water and they are found all over this region of Mexico (there are thousands of them!). Yalahau Cenote is a must-visit for anyone who loves swimming in natural pools… the water is spectacularly beautiful.
Visit Punta Mosquito
This is a small peninsula located on the eastern side of the island. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, as it’s home to a variety of exotic species. You can also go snorkeling here and see a variety of vibrant fish and coral reefs.
Kayak the Mangroves
The mangroves of Holbox are home to a variety of plant and animal species, including exotic birds and reptiles. You can go on a kayak tour through the mangroves and see these creatures up close.
Go Flamingo Spotting
Holbox is home to a large colony of flamingos, which can be found in the lagoons and marshes on the island. You can go flamingo spotting and see these beautiful birds up close.
Rent a Golf Cart
One of the fun and exciting things to do in Holbox is to explore it by renting a golf cart. These vehicles are small and easy to maneuver, and they allow you to see all the sights of the island at your own pace.
Chill at a Beach Club
After a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than relaxing at a beach bar with a cold drink. Holbox has a number of beach bars where you can sit back, lie down, and watch the sunset over the sea.
Restaurants on Isla Holbox
When speaking about the best things to do in Holbox, you cannot overlook the amazing array of restaurants the island has to offer. If you ever feel the need for a delicious meal, look no further than the following Holbox restaurants:
- Restaurant at Nomade: The menu at this gorgeous restaurant at Hotel Nomade features Mayan-Mexican dishes mixed with Peruvian and Japanese influences. Don’t miss trying the ceviche or the matcha volcano dessert!
- LUUMA: This popular eatery offers a delicious selection of Mexican and international cuisine, including seafood, tacos, and sandwiches. With its cozy atmosphere and beachfront location, LUUMA is the perfect spot for a charming dinner or a casual lunch.
- Painapol: Pizza lovers will want to visit Painapol for sure! Here, you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings, as well as sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, and the restaurant is conveniently located in the heart of the island.
- Mandarina: This trendy restaurant serves up Mexican and international fare with a modern twist. The menu includes a variety of dishes, including seafood, tacos, and sandwiches. The decor is chic and modern, and the beachfront setting makes Mandarina the perfect spot for an evening out.
- Barba Negra: If you’re looking for a cozy restaurant to grab some Mexican and international cuisine, Barba Negra is a great choice. The menu features a variety of dishes, including seafood, tacos, and sandwiches.
- Big Fish: For seafood lovers, Big Fish is a must-visit. This restaurant serves a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including ceviche, oysters, and lobster. The atmosphere is laid-back, and it’s located right on the beach, making it the ideal spot to enjoy some delicious seafood while soaking up the sun.
- Roots Pizzas a la leña Isla Holbox: If you’re in the mood for pizza, Roots Pizzas a la leña Isla Holbox is a great option. This popular restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings, as well as other dishes like sandwiches and salads.
Best Hotels in Isla Holbox
The next thing you may want to consider when planning your trip to Isla Holbox is where you are going to stay. To help you make the best decision, here are some of the top hotels on the island.
- Nomade Holbox: Nomade Holbox is an eco-friendly beachfront hotel featuring rooms and suites with natural wood decor, balconies overlooking the ocean, deluxe beach beds, and a beautiful pool in front.
→ Read Next: Staying at Nomade Holbox in Isla Holbox, Mexico
- El Corazón Boutique Hotel: El Corazón Boutique Hotel is situated right on Punta Cocos Beach in Isla Holbox and boasts a rustic colonial-style atmosphere with luxurious amenities, including outdoor swimming pools surrounded by lush gardens and jacuzzi tubs.
- Villas Caracol: Villas Caracol offers stunning landscapes and views from every room, elegantly decorated to maximize relaxation.
- Casa Blanca: Casa Blanca is situated conveniently close to the main square within Holbox Island’s town center. This plush, 3-star rated hotel offers a memorable vacation experience. If you are looking for quality time away without breaking your bank account, Casa Blanca is the perfect spot for you.
- Palapas del Sol: Palapas del Sol is a luxurious beachfront hotel located on the beautiful island of Isla Holbox. The property features stylish guest rooms, all with private balconies and views of the Caribbean Sea. Onsite amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub surrounded by sun beds, as well as a restaurant serving traditional Mexican dishes.
- Boutique Hotel Casa Muuch Holbox: Hotel Boutique Casa Muuch Holbox is a luxurious beachfront property located on one of Isla Holbox’s tranquil beaches. The gorgeous Honeymoon Suite features an open-air rooftop with a jacuzzi… talk about dreamy!
Tips for Visiting Isla Holbox
Now that you’ve learned about the best things to do in Holbox, here are a few tips to ensure you have the best holiday experience possible. By following these guidelines, you can make sure that your time on Isla Holbox is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible while maximizing your opportunities for exploration and adventure.
- Respect nature: Isla Holbox is renowned for its incredible natural beauty, so it’s important to show respect for the environment during your stay. Keep a safe distance from wildlife and make sure to leave no trace of your visit.
- Go slow: The pace of life on Isla Holbox is different from many places in the world—it’s a slower pace of life. Leave plenty of time to explore and enjoy each moment as you go along.
- Embrace the water: With its turquoise lagoon, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming and water activities. You can snorkel or dive around some of the incredible coral reefs, kayak in the mangroves, swim in the lagoons, or try kite-surfing or paddle boarding on the waves of the Caribbean Sea.
- Explore on foot, bicycle or golf cart: There are no cars allowed on Isla Holbox, leaving it a maze of narrow dirt streets and sandy trails—perfect for exploring by bike or foot. Take a stroll around each viewpoint and soak up all the natural beauty around you!
- Sample local cuisine: Isla Holbox has an array of exciting culinary options, from seafood restaurants to Mexican street food and even exotic pizzas topped with fresh lobster! So, make sure you sample some delicious dishes cooked up by the locals during your visit!
- Bring cash: There are a couple of ATMs on the island but they sometimes run out of money or only dispense US dollars instead of pesos. While most of the businesses on the island accept US dollars, you may not get the best conversion rate. I would definitely recommend bringing cash with you (preferably a mix of pesos and USD), just in case, and plan for about 1,000 pesos per person per day. Another word of caution is that some businesses are particular about the bills being in mint condition (if there is a slight tear or rip, they may refuse them).
What to Pack for Isla Holbox
The island has a relaxed and casual feel so you won’t need to pack anything very dressy! Plus, the roads are sandy with plenty of potholes so there’s no need to pack your heels. Plan to bring lots of swimsuits, beach cover-ups, casual dresses, beach bags, sunglasses and hats!
The mosquitos in Isla Holbox are no joke… they are the most vicious mosquitos I’ve ever encountered (seriously, haha). Maybe it was the time of year that I went… but I would absolutely pack bug spray just in case. I usually stick to the natural bug spray but I read about the mosquitos beforehand and I brought OFF! repellent and I’m glad I did because the natural bug spray didn’t work against them at all!
If you plan to do a boat tour or get out on the water at all, it’s always handy to have a dry bag to make sure your belongings don’t get wet. There’s nothing worse than losing an iPhone or camera to the sea!
When in Mexico, it’s important to take sun protection seriously! Make sure to bring a reef-friendly sunscreen if you plan to apply and then swim in the sea.
I always pack a lightweight beach towel which comes in handy for adventures outside of the hotel. We ended up using this on our boat day after jumping in the sea and the swimming around in the cenote.
Honestly, I resisted buying these for so long because I wanted to wear cuter sandals… but they are just so practical and comfortable! I’m glad I ended up getting these because they are great for long days where you’ll be jumping in cenotes, walking on the beach, hopping on a boat and more.
Again, make sure you have lots of protection from the sun while you’re at the beach. I always have a beach hat with me, and bonus if it is UV UPF 50 like this one!
That’s a wrap on my guide to Isla Holbox so now you know all the best things to do in Holbox! It’s time to escape to this Caribbean oasis and experience why so many people love this secluded, stunning paradise.
Leave a Reply