Isla Holbox travel guide: what to know about Mexico's dreamy car-free island

Welcome to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s Best-Kept Island Secret

Stepping onto the sun-bleached shores of Isla Holbox feels like entering a secret beach club you wish you'd joined years ago. This slender island—just 26 miles long and a mile wide—floats off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, where the Caribbean Sea melts into the Gulf of Mexico. Think sandy streets, buildings splashed in tropical hues, and the gentle sputter of golf carts—the only vehicles allowed.

While the island’s backpacker days are fading fast, Isla Holbox still has the charm and barefoot appeal that lured travelers here in the first place. It’s an idyllic escape from the crowds of Cancún, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen—perfect for travelers craving tranquility with a splash of rustic luxury.

How to Get to Isla Holbox

One of the reasons Isla Holbox remains relatively peaceful is that it takes a bit of effort to reach.

Step 1: Fly to Cancún

Most travelers arrive via Cancún International Airport (CUN). From there, you can:

Rent a car

Take an ADO bus (the most convenient and budget-friendly option)

Arrange a private shuttle or taxi

Your destination is the tiny port town of Chiquilá, the final stop on the mainland.

Step 2: Ferry from Chiquilá to Isla Holbox

From Chiquilá, ferries depart every 30 minutes to Holbox. The ferry ride is short—about 15 minutes—and costs around $12 USD. You’ll ride in an air-conditioned catamaran across calm waters.

If you drive to Chiquilá, keep in mind that Isla Holbox is car-free. You’ll need to leave your car in one of the small, unofficial parking lots (fees are negotiable). ADO buses from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum offer the most reliable and cost-effective transportation.

Best Things to Do on Isla Holbox

1. Lounge on the Beaches

Holbox's beaches are its crown jewels. Powdery white sand, ankle-deep turquoise water, and tranquil vibes are the island’s signature. Don’t miss Punta Mosquito, the northern tip of the island, known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere.

2. Swim with Whale Sharks

From June through September, Holbox becomes a hotspot for whale shark tours. These gentle giants can reach up to 40 feet long, and snorkeling alongside them is one of the most humbling experiences in Mexico.

3. See Bioluminescence at Night

Between July and January, you can witness bioluminescent plankton glowing in the shallow waters—particularly on the southern shores. Nighttime kayak or paddleboard tours are the best way to experience this natural phenomenon.

4. Explore Cenotes and Nature Reserves

Visit Cenote Hoyo Negro Yalahau, a freshwater lagoon just across the channel, or venture deeper into the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, which surrounds much of the island.

5. Paddle, Kiteboard, and Kayak

Active travelers can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, and kiteboarding. Rentals and guided tours are easy to find near the main beach areas.

Where to Eat on Isla Holbox

From beachfront ceviche bars to wood-fired seafood pizzerias, Isla Holbox restaurants serve up some of the best food on the Yucatán coast.

• Roots – Famous for its wood-fired lobster pizza and bohemian vibe

• Ser Esencia – Elegant sea-to-table cuisine with Caribbean flair

• Las Panchas – Beloved local spot for affordable fish and shrimp tacos

• Barba Negra – Trendy taco bar with a laid-back vibe

• Milpa – Upscale tasting menus in a cozy, family-run space

• Raices Beach Club – Great for beachfront ceviche and cocktails with your toes in the sand

Where to Stay on Isla Holbox

Holbox may be growing in popularity, but it still favors boutique hotels over mega resorts. Here are some top picks for where to stay on Isla Holbox:

1. Ser Casasandra

An art-centric luxury hotel favored by Journey Mexico, this property feels like a beachfront gallery. Don’t miss the Master Luxury Beachfront Room for ocean views and a private balcony.

2. Nomade Holbox

The new darling of the island, Nomade Holbox brings boho-luxury vibes to the shoreline—think jungle treehouses and oceanfront glamping tents. Tip: Sip the Signature Cocktail #3, made with mezcal, Ancho Reyes, and fresh fruit.

3. Hotel Punta Caliza

A photogenic favorite with A-frame palapa-roofed suites arranged around a turquoise pool. Rooms are cozy, minimalist, and totally Instagram-worthy.

4. Hotel Las Nubes

Located at the far end of the island, this eco-lodge offers the most remote, off-the-grid feel. Stay in a Master Suite for panoramic sea views and a private terrace.

Isla Holbox Travel Tips

• Pack mosquito repellent. The island is part of a protected nature reserve, and mosquitos are fierce—especially near the mangroves.

• ATMs can be unreliable. Bring enough cash, especially for smaller businesses.

• Don’t expect fast Wi-Fi. Holbox is ideal for unplugging, so plan to disconnect.

• Book whale shark tours in advance. The best providers fill up quickly during peak season.

Why Isla Holbox Belongs on Your Mexico Travel Bucket List

Isla Holbox isn’t a secret anymore—but that doesn’t make it any less special. With its laid-back vibe, dreamy beaches, and rich biodiversity, this island still feels worlds away from the crowded resorts of the Riviera Maya. Whether you’re watching bioluminescence under the stars or sipping mezcal beside the sea, Holbox delivers the kind of magic that sticks with you long after your tan fades.