A mere 15-minute boat ride away from the humming city of Cancun lies the pretty, sleepy little Caribbean Island of Isla Mujeres, and a welcome sanctuary for those wishing to escape the town across the water.

A rustic, white-sanded and turquoise-watered beach destination, one whiles away the hours with some great diving, snorkelling, sunsets, walking, boat trips and dining out on some delicious fresh seafood.

With a young and lively atmosphere, the island does have a relaxed yet vibrant nightlife and the hotels tend to not be as sophisticated or luxurious as those in Cancun or Playa del Carmen, but then again Isla Mujeres’ size and temperament dictates more of an intimate and modest mindset.

What to do

  • Snorkelling
  • Diving
  • Visiting the small Mayan temple in the south
  • Birdwatching
  • Turtle Conservation Centre
  • Catamaran excursions