Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres → 12 TOP Hotels + Useful Tips
Planning an island vacation in Quintana Roo, Mexico? Isla Mujeres is just the place to be! I visited this stunning island as part of my honeymoon and couldn’t have loved it more! So today, I’m your guide for where to stay in Isla Mujeres!
This practical post shares all the information you need to plan your trip, starting from a quick overview of the best areas, my curated selection of the top-rated hotels in all 3 budget categories (plus vacation rentals!), and other useful info.
In short, stay in the North of the island to be close to all the action and the best hotels! The island is small anyways, so moving around will be a breeze.
Now I do recommend you book your stay here in advance to secure the best deals! Same goes for all tours you plan to take!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a list of the best Isla Mujeres hotels, all located in the North end:
budget hotel
Best affordable accommodation in the center
Where to stay in Isla Mujeres – area overview
Here’s a quick map that shows the 3 main parts of the islands:
- North End: for nightlife and culture
- Sac Bajo: for families and luxury
- Ponta Sur: for adventure and diving
The island of Isla Mujeres sits just a quick ferry ride from Cancun, Mexico. It stretches for 5 miles (8 km), and it’s only half a mile (0.8 km) wide.
I must say that I absolutely loved my stay here. Boutique hotels tucked between Caribbean-style homes, friendly locals, beautiful waters, and tons of ancient history await on every corner!
Now, you’d think finding a perfect place to stay is easy on such a small island.
However, there are several distinct areas with a very different vibe. Plus, the names of the areas can get confusing. For example, they call the Northern tip of the island El Centro (center)! But that’s only because this is the center of all the action (and where I recommend you to stay!), rather than the geographical center.
Here’s my quick overview of the island’s main areas so you can understand right away which one is best for you:
- North End – this area encompasses two central locations, Downtown (El Centro), which is the most touristy area, and Playa Norte, the most popular white sand beach on the island. All the best hotels, shops, restaurants, and entertainment are right here, especially around Hidalgo Street and Rueda Medina Avenue.
- Sac Bajo (Southern part) – located in the South part of the island, Sac Bajo is your quiet gem with private villas, small and secluded beaches, and some of the main attractions on the island, like the Dolphin Discovery, where you can swim with these cute sea creatures.
- Ponta Sur (Southern tip of the island) – known for its natural beauty, an ancient temple dedicated to the Mayan Goddess of Ixchel, and the main diving spots on the island (we came back here on our second trip to Isla Mujeres just for diving!), Ponta Sur is the go-to point for adventure seekers.
FUN FACT: Ponta Sur is the first place in all of Mexico to see the light of the day every morning! It’s also the highest elevation point on the Yucatan Peninsula!
To make your decision-making even simpler, I summarized all the key features of the top areas in the table below:
Best hotels in Isla Mujeres
Now, let’s get to the juicy part! I picked 9 top accommodation options for all budget categories, plus added an extra section on vacation rentals since they’re just so popular here (especially for families).
Luxury (US$200 and up)
Luxury hotels in Isla Mujeres range from affordable luxury starting at around US$200 per night to upscale resorts for over US$2,000 per night.
I listed the 3 most popular luxury options across the island and sorted them from least to most expensive:
- Ixchel Beach Hotel – The best hotel in the North End of the island, just a short walk from Playa Norte, with its very own gorgeous beach with white sand. Choose a suite on the first floor so you can just walk right to the pool or the beach! Plus, the hotel is totally walkable to the central Hidalgo Street (map).
- Izla Hotel – Everyone loves this 5-star hotel in Sac Bajo for its sensational private beach and stunning pools! They also have 2 restaurants, rooms with private balconies and views, and a nice spa center where you can relax.
- Impression Isla Mujeres – Here’s a 5-star adult-only resort that’ll blow you off your feet! It’s located in Ponta Sur and is the perfect destination for honeymooners or couples who want to splurge on their stay. Catch the most scenic sunset from their infinity pool and enjoy all the luxury amenities with style.
Mid-range (from US$80 to US$200)
Mid-range travelers to Isla Mujeres are in for a treat since accommodation is available all across the island!
You’re mostly looking at private apartments, but there are also 4-star hotels with pretty affordable prices.
- Casa Barco Hotel Boutique – One of the top-rated casas on the island, with a stunning and bright interior, a rooftop pool, and a central location. Everyone loves how comfy the beds are here!
- Hotel La Joya – Located in the South of the island, the hotel has rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea and beautiful gardens. You can rent kayaks or participate in activities like snorkeling, too. Plus, they also offer spa services and breakfast in your room!
- Kay Apartments – Located in the middle of the island, Kay Apartments offers a glimpse into local life with its lovely inner courtyard and authentic furniture. The location is also close to the attractions, which is a major plus.
Budget (up to US$80)
Most budget accommodation on the island is located in the North and middle part of the island.
TIP: I recommend you stay in budget-friendly “Casas” or hotel homes because they offer the best value for money. Why not live like a local when you have the chance?
- Selina Poc Na – The most iconic hostel in the North, with rates starting from US$9 per night! They have bicycle and e-scooter rentals, plus the perfect location for early morning meditation by the sea. I normally wouldn’t recommend this hostel since it does need some upkeep, but it’s the most popular option on the island for backpackers.
- Casa Aura – An excellent budget-friendly alternative with a more peaceful location in the North, plus more affordable private rooms and free parking.
- Mayan Monkey Isla Mujeres – A brand new hostel in the South end with dorms and private rooms, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a beachfront location. Their dorms fall into the budget category, while private rooms are ideal for mid-range travelers.
Vacation rentals (from US$70 to US$1,000+)
Planning a trip to Isla Mujeres with kids or a large group? Get yourself a vacation rental! They are plenty, mostly luxurious, and offer unparalleled comfort.
Plan to spend up to US$100 per night for budget rentals, around US$300 for condos, and infinity and beyond for private houses.
- Sotavento Isla Sunset Rentals – Sotavento is the best vacation rental agency on the island, and this Ponta Sur rental is just one example of what they have to offer. Fully equipped, modern apartments with a stunning pool and terrace just steps from the beach! I mean, what else do you need for a dream tropical vacay?
- Casa Zama Luxury Ocean Front – Another one of my favorite luxury rentals overlooking the sea with 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, ideal for groups of up to 10 people. The rental is at the South end of the island, just by Ponta Sur.
- Nautibeach Condos – Fully furnished condos with private kitchens just by the beach in the North Isla Mujeres, ideal for families with kids. There’s also private parking, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant where you can try fresh local food.
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Practical information
Now let’s talk about getting around, things to do, and some other useful stuff that’ll make your trip planning easier!
Getting to Isla Mujeres
The road to Isla Mujeres is a short one once you land in Cancun International Airport. A 30-or-so-minute ride to the Puerto Juarez ferry port, and then another 30 minutes on the ferry until you reach the isle.
Getting from the airport to the ferry port
Once you land in Cancun, you have multiple options to get to the ferry port, depending on your arrival time, budget, and travel habits.
- Private transfer: Pre-book a ride for ultimate comfort and convenience. You get tons of perks: friendly English-speaking drivers, cold refreshments, and comfy cars that can fit all your luggage! Some services can hook you up with ferry tickets as well so you don’t have to wait in line once at the terminal! What a time saver! Private transfers to the port start at around US$40, and ferry tickets are around US$30.
- Taxi: You can get a taxi as well, but book online via Cancun Airport website for major discounts. The ride to Puerto Suarez is around US$25. Ride-hailing apps don’t operate at Cancun airport.
- ADO bus: Cheap but least convenient option, just look for the ADO bus sign on the terminal. This one can take a whole hour to reach Downtown Cancun for US$6, and then you’re in for a short taxi ride to the port for another US$6. Definitely only use this as a last resort.
Taking the ferry
Ferries to Isla Mujeres depart from Puerto Juarez. The most popular ferry, Ultramar Ferry, departs from the Gran Puerto (map) terminal with daily departures every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 11 PM.
The other more budget-friendly Jetway Ferry departs from the original dock just a bit further North (map), but I definitely don’t recommend it as the service is super slow and the staff is scammy.
NOTE: Some tourists get told that Jetway Ferry is the only ferry in and out of Isla Mujeres. This is so not true, so don’t fall for the scam. Just go to the Gran Puerto port directly and you’ll be fine.
TIP: Unless you’re staying at Zona Hotelera in Cancun, I recommend you take the ferry from Gran Puerto, and not at the ferry terminals in the Zone (there are 3 of them there). The departures are more limited and prices are higher. Plus, Gran Puerto has all the cool amenities you need when traveling in the heat (clean bathrooms, drinks, places to sit, etc).
TIP 2: If you’re not coming from the airport but from Downtown Cancun, still pre-arrange your ferry tickets in advance on the ferry operator’s website to avoid standing in lines. They can get super long and exhausting in the heat!
Alternative options
Although most people take the pre-arranged transfer and ferry combination, there are other ways to get to Isla Mujeres:
- Private water taxi – For around US$250, you can take a one-way private water taxi to Isla Mujeres. Riviera Charters is a popular operator.
- Take a tour – You can just hop on for a full-day sightseeing cruise to Isla Mujeres from Cancun. The prices start from US$80 per person.
Getting around the island
As you arrive in Isla Mujeres, just rent a golf cart (also referred to as buggie) from one of the many providers Downtown (here’s a good option, map).
The Isla Mujeres streets are too narrow for cars, so I don’t recommend them at all. Although the island is not completely car-free, you’ll mostly see scooters and golf carts on its streets. Tourists use those to tour the island at their own pace, and they’re super convenient.
Daily rates for scooters are around US$40, while golf carts cost around US$70 for the whole day, fuel and insurance included. You can also rent for just a few hours!
TIP: Definitely rent a buggy if you stay in the lower parts of the island, like Ponta Sur and Sac Bajo. If you stay in the Northern part, you can just walk everywhere!
Payment options on Isla Mujeres
Here are the main things to know when it comes to paying for stuff in Isla Mujeres:
- Most businesses accept US dollars, but I advise you to pay with local currency (Mexican peso) to avoid getting overcharged.
- Most places accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to exchange some cash just in case, especially for purchases in small shops.
- You’ll find a money exchange office just next to the Ultramar terminal (map).
- ATMs are widely available on the island, so don’t worry about those! Don’t exchange money at Cancun airport.
- If you tip, do so in pesos. It’s standard to give a 15% tip, but you can give more if you were really happy with the service (this mostly goes for restaurants).
Best tours on Isla Mujeres
Once you’re all settled on the island, you can start exploring! These are the best experiences to book in advance:
Remember that Isla Mujeres is your relaxing vacation destination rather than the action-packed spot with tons of sightseeing. Prioritize rest, casual strolls, chilling at the beach, and take a few tours on or underwater because the marine life here is just wow!
NOTE: Try to plan your visit from January to April, as this is when the weather is the best. You’ll also find most crowds and festivals at this time. Avoid visiting from May to November due to the hurricanes.
FAQs about Isla Mujeres lodging
🐚 Where should you stay in Isla Mujeres?
One of the best places to stay in Isla Mujeres is Playa Norte, as it hosts most of the tourist attractions, great restaurants, and hotels such as Ixchel Beach Hotel.
🏝️ What is the best part of Isla Mujeres?
It depends on what you’re hoping to see during your holiday. Playa Norte is a touristy area so it will be more crowded. The Southern end is best for diving and adventures, while Sac Bajo is ideal for families with kids.
🤔 Is it better to stay in Cancun or Isla Mujeres?
Cancun is a city, so it definitely has a different feeling than Isla Mujeres, which is a small island. Both offer unique experiences and hotels, but Cancun definitely has more attractions.
🍹 Is Isla Mujeres a party place?
Life on the island is very laid-back and relaxed, so you won’t find a big party scene here. However, you will come across different beach bars where you can listen to music and get a cocktail.
🛵 How to get around Isla Mujeres?
By renting a golf cart or a scooter! These are the most popular transport methods, you won’t even need a car.
🏨 Which is the best beachfront hotel in Isla Mujeres?
👶 Where to stay in Isla Mujeres with kids?
Pick any location in the middle and South of the island as it’s quieter and more secluded, but still close to kid-friendly attractions. I recommend the Sotavento Isla Sunset Rentals, or if you’re more into hotels, the Izla Hotel in Sac Bajo.
✅ Is it safe to walk around Isla Mujeres at night?
Isla Mujeres is safe in general, but definitely stay aware when walking around at night. Only stay in well-lit areas where there are people, and avoid walking alone just for added safety.
📅 How many days should you spend in Isla Mujeres?
Plan at least 2 full days so you can see the attractions on all parts of the island.
🏊♀️ Can you swim on the East side of Isla Mujeres?
Yes! Mascotas Beach (map) is one of the most popular, swimmable beaches on the East side of Isla Mujeres. It’s very small and secluded, but it checks the East-side-beach box.
🌊 Is there a lot to do on Isla Mujeres?
Think long white sandy beaches, incredible marine life, old colonial homes, and a relaxing vibe with beach bars and restaurants on every corner. I’d say there are quite a few things to do here to keep you busy for a few days!
Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Isla Mujeres
Phew! You made it to the end of our guide on where to stay in Isla Mujeres! Hopefully, it answered all your questions and gave you some fun ideas!
I know that it can be hard to choose your accommodation when all of the hotels look so good, so here are my top 2 favorite hotels, both located in the North of the island:
Before I let you go, I just wanted to give you a final reminder to book your hotels in Isla Mujeres in advance. There’s a limited number of good places and you really don’t want to lose the best spot just because you checked too late!
If you have any questions about the Isla Mujeres or any suggestions for our fellow readers, leave me a comment below, and I’ll make sure I answer it ASAP!
Safe travels,
Yulia
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