|
|
| Holbox Travel Guide |
Version Español |
 |
 |
| Hotels, restaurants, travel services, tourist attractions, videos, maps, climate, etc. |
|
 |
| HOLBOX TOURIST INFORMATION / TOURISM IN HOLBOX |
 |
|
Holbox Island is located in a privileged spot from where it is easily observed the merging of the beautiful turquoise colors of the Caribbean Ocean with the emerald green of the Gulf of Mexico, providing an unparalleled beauty to all who view it from its kilometers of virgin beaches of fine white coralline sands. Thanks to its location this island has a wide variety of exotic marine life, as well as several species of exotic birds nestled in the lush vegetation of the island's mangroves.
Thanks to its location and abundance of marine life, inhabitants of Holbox have been developing their fishing techniques for decades and it's the primary source of income for people of this gorgeous island, although they also take advantage of the coconut plantations. During your Holbox vacation take a rest on the comfortable hammocks woven by local women, take a walk along the unpaved roads amongst the thatched roofed wooden cabins, and relax on the virgin white-sand beaches while enjoying the tranquility of this island where telephones, traffic and work are the last things on your mind.
From the town of Chiquila, approximately two and a half hours north of Cancun, take a ferry across the sparkling waters of the Caribbean to arrive at this tropical island paradise, located off the northern Yucatan peninsula in Cabo Catoche, where the waters of the Gulf of Mexico merge with those of the Caribbean Sea. Then get ready to explore the 25 mile long idyllic island of Holbox.
On the southern part of the island you will find a beautiful lagoon with water so dark it creates the illusion of a black hole, and it's also the reason why the Island is called Holbox, or Black Hole.
On Holbox, life has a different pace. This small piece of heaven is secluded from the rest of the world, far from the hectic rhythm of the city. Holbox has been declared a protected area by the Mexican government, and it's inhabited by friendly people who get around the island on bicycles, motorcycles or golf carts.
While staying at this world-class tourist destination, you can get in touch with nature and enjoy the many eco-touristic activities available, designed to help preserve the extraordinary flora and fauna of the island, and make sure it will be preserved,in pristine condition to be enjoyed for many generations to come.
Also enjoy the variety of exquisite fresh seafood available on Holbox, such as shrimps, fish, crabs, tuna, clams and octopuses, or savor the tastiest lobster you have ever tried, Holbox style. Other mouthwatering favorites available are a traditional "Holbox" Ceviche and the delicious fish empanadas. There is also an abundance of juicy exotic fruits, such as papayas, mangoes and pineapples growing wild on the island. There are many exotic beverages, but the most representative and delicious is fresh coconut milk mixed with a healthy splash of rum, the perfect accompaniment to any meal!
Come and discover Holbox and enjoy a unique experience with the most spectacular vistas, the abundance of marine life, colorful birds, the virgin beaches of coralline sands, and all that's hidden amongst the waters and mangroves of this enigmatic island. Come to Holbox and have the best vacation of your life!
|
|
|
|
|
- HOTELS
- ATTRACTIONS
- RESTAURANTS
- NIGHTLIFE
- SHOPPING
 |
Faro Viejo Holbox 
Address: Av Juarez y Playa s/n, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Villa Flamingos Holbox
Address: alle Paso Kuka s/n, Playa Norte, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Villas Paraiso Del Mar Holbox 
Address: Av Plutarco ElÃas Calles s/n, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Casa Blat Ha Holbox
Address: Calle Esquina Caguama con Charral, n/a. Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Casa Las Tortugas Holbox
Address: Calle Damero, Isla de Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Casa Maya de José Lima Holbox
Address: Calle Sierra por paseo carey, Sin Colonia, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
CasaSandra Hotel Boutique
Address: La Igualdad s/n. Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Elements Holbox
Address: Paseo Kuka s/n, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel La Palapa Holbox
Address: Av Morelos #231, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Las Nubes de Holbox
Address: Paseo Kuká s/n, esquina Calle Camaron, ZH, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Maya Inn Holbox
Address: Calle Benito Juárez esq con Palomino, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Villas Delfines Holbox
Address: Domicilio Conocido, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Hotel Xaloc Resort Holbox
Address: Calle Chacchi s/n esq Playa Norte, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
 |
Holbox Dream
Address: Av Pedro Joaquin Coldwell, M5, L1, Isla Holbox
Location: Holbox | Map View |
|
Hotel View |
|
| TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN HOLBOX / PLACES TO VISIT IN HOLBOX |
|
Whale shark watching
This is an unforgettable and unique experience that you shouldn't miss, to swim side by side with the largest fish on earth, the Whale Shark. There is also a good possibility of seeing dolphins and giant rays; it's truly something you won't forget. Even though the whale shark is the biggest fish (almost 13 meters long) on the planet it only eats plankton, hence it is a harmless creature and perfectly safe to dive with. Thanks to the perfect climate and the warm, rich waters that surround Holbox, it is considered one the best locations to admire these creatures. Between May and September Holbox becomes the home for more Whale Sharks than anywhere else in the entire world.
Birds Island
Another fantastic spectacle well worth admiring while visiting Holbox is Bird Island. Flamingos, ducks, seagulls, herons, and grey and white pelicans are just a few of the more than 100 species of birds that inhabit the island. Native and migratory species, they all come to here to nest. This island, located only 10 minutes by boat from Holbox, is surrounded by the sixty meter wide Yalahau lagoon. Your adventure will start before you get there, with the chance to see all kinds of wild life on the way. When visiting this magical place take the time to relax in a hammock and enjoy the warm sun and the stunning view, paradise!
The main reason behind Isla Pajaros is to protect the birds that nest here; some of them are endangered species. Two observation towers were built to avoid disturbing the birds and from here you will have an amazing breathtaking view. The twilight and the dawn are the ideal times to appreciate the birds, but it doesn't matter what itinerary you may have, it's always well worth the visit.
Dolphin watching
The early hours of the morning are the best time to view these intelligent and friendly creatures near the Yalahau lagoon, while they dine on a breakfast of fish that come to the lagoon looking for shelter. It's possible to see an entire family of dolphins showing off their hunting skills, and many of the locals are more than willing to take you out their boats to appreciate them from a closer vantage point. The summer is the best time of the year to snorkel with the dolphins, because it's the season when the mothers give birth and the ideal moment to observe them interacting with their new families.
Traditional fishing
Enjoy the experience of catching your own fresh seafood dinner. Depending on the season you will find octopus, crabs and always plenty of fish, then order them to be cooked in the style that you like; the delicious Ceviche and the Holbox style are always firm favorites. The boats depart in the mornings with space for up to 5 people, take a trip and have fun trying to catch your evening meal.
Turtles
Watching a turtle lay its eggs is a marvelous spectacle, and Punta Mosquitos on Holbox is one of the best places to see it. Thanks to the isolated, unspoilt beaches it's the perfect location for these beautiful creatures to nest and lay their eggs.
During the months of May, Jun and July hundreds of female turtles take up residence on the beaches of Holbox to lay their eggs. The most interesting fact about this animal is that they return to lay their eggs on the same beach as they were born on. It can take the whole night to dig the hole, lay the eggs and cover the hole again before returning to the safety of the ocean. It is a truly emotional experience and one you shouldn't miss.
Passion Island
A 15 minute journey is all the time it takes to get to Isla Pasion from Holbox; a place perfect for relaxing and enjoying a romantic, cozy evening. Don't forget to bring your hammock to rest, while you appreciate the fantastic sunset that only Isla Pasion can offer you; a small Caribbean island to let yourself go and forget about the outside world.
Yalahau Cenote
For dive enthusiasts, the Yalahau Cenote is an excellent site for this exciting sport. You can snorkel or simply just relax and enjoy the flamingos and dolphins that come by to feed on the shrimp abundant in this area. One of nature's most fascinating creations, this fresh water eye, surrounded completely by salt water, is known as the "fountain of youth". You can access it only by boat and it is located only 20 minutes from Holbox Island; an adventure that you can't miss.
|
|
|
| RESTAURANTS IN HOLBOX / PLACES TO EAT IN HOLBOX |
|
Cariocas
Cariocas is located on the beach and is a large palapa, perfect for enjoying the tropical island atmosphere. It features an open-air section and an indoor one where the DJ runs the party. In addition, this restaurant offers a bar area with tables to savor tasty caribbean specialties and cocktails. Cariocas is an important part of Holbox's nightlife for the local community who always meet there to chat, dance and have fun.
Edelyn
Enjoy the specialty of the house, the succulent "Lobster Pizza". Contemplate the incredible view from the spacious roof-top terrace on the restaurant with the best location in Holbox, just in front of the main square. But don't worry! Even though lobster is an extravagant delicacy, here it won't cost even half what you expect!
La Isla del Colibri
This little cabana, with a beautiful view of the main square, is a great place for a light breakfast, a delicious lunch or an informal dinner. The options range from a simple seafood cocktail, to juicy steaks from the grill. And the drinks include natural juices, hot and cold coffees, and fruity tropical cocktails. The interior has been decorated with old pictures and reproductions of Frida Kahlo's paintings, adding to the unique, cozy atmosphere of this quaint restaurant.
La Parrilla de Juan
With a distinct Italian style, La Parrilla de Juan serves the most delicious lasagna in all of Holbox. You must also try the succulent steaks and wonderfully fresh salads, or perhaps a Mediterranean dish prepared with seafood recently caught from the waters surrounding the island. Choose a good red or white from their comprehensive wine list to complement your gastronomic experience. The atmosphere, like on the rest of the island, is extremely relaxed and perfectly suited for a fantastic evening meal and some good conversation.
Pelicanos
La Parrilla de JuanThis laid back, bohemian restaurant, located less than a block from the main square, has a great family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy the most delicious espresso on the island, along with a selection of delicious dishes with an unmistakable Italian touch, all to the rhythm of contemporary jazz. Fish Carpaccio, Caprese salad, or salmon and spinach crepes, are just some of the tantalizing options on offer.
Viva Zapata
Savor the most exquisite regional appetizers and a huge variety of domestic and international drinks. This restaurant features a very Mexican atmosphere and typical decor of the "Mexican Independence". While listening to the traditional Mexican music, you will realize that you are on a gorgeous island, and would rather be nowhere else on earth.
Zarabanda
Zarabanda is undoubtedly the most representative restaurant, for the authentic cuisine of Holbox. It offers a refreshing, comfortable atmosphere and succulent seafood dishes. Try the delicious cocktails which are the house specialty. Zarabanda will welcome you with open arms and give you first-class service and a wonderful view of the main square.
|
|
|
| NIGHTLIFE IN HOLBOX / BARS & CLUBS |
|
Habana Nights
The thing that first catches the visitors' eye is the fact that almost all of the furniture in this bar is made out of old tree trunks. The palapa (a Mexican-style thatched roof) provides the perfect environment to enjoy a refreshing tropical cocktail and watch the music videos on their big screen. This bar is always the last one to close on the island, and it's probably just a few minutes from your hotel. So if you are looking to experience a little nighttime entertainment then come and enjoy Habana Nights in Holbox!
La Isla
Located in the center of Holbox, La Isla is pretty much like the island itself: relaxed, adorable and inviting. All the furniture is made out of reclaimed wood and features some interesting details, such as a fishing net draped over the service bar, helping to give the place a really rustic 'Caribbean' feel. To accompany your beer or cocktail, you should definitely consider trying their shrimp, cooked either in a mango sauce, tequila, or char grilled.
Tiki Tiki
Come and enjoy the soothing atmosphere of this unique, tropical palapa-bar. From the second floor you'll have a great vantage point, from where you can watch the slow pace of nightlife in Holbox and also see the tourists leisurely browsing around the many handicraft stores, looking for unique necklaces and bracelets. Enjoy your favorite cocktail or just a cold beer, as chill-out and lounge music float in the warm evening air.
|
|
|
| SHOPPING IN HOLBOX / WHERE TO BUY IN HOLBOX |
|
Small shops
If you are looking for beautiful hammocks, colorful fabrics, traditional items, handicrafts, hats, silver items and countless typical Mexican ornamental products, you should not forget to visit the small Holbox shops. You will be amazed by the creativity of the locals, who manufacture these gorgeous art pieces with basic materials such as bones and wood.
Main Square
One of the most important attractions on this Caribbean island is its main square, come and find the perfect souvenir to take home as a memory of your amazing vacation spent on this gorgeous, unique island. While taking a walk around the main square you can find beautiful handicrafts and ornamental items, which can only be created by the imaginative minds of the locals, who use every material in their reach resulting in products rich in color and unique in design.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Top