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| Isla Mujeres Travel Guide |

Version Español |
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| Hotels, restaurants, travel services, tourist attractions, videos, maps, climate, etc. |
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| ISLA MUJERES TOURIST INFORMATION / TOURISM IN ISLA MUJERES |
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Just 11 km north of Cancun, Isla Mujeres (The Island of Women) has a decidedly different rhythm, more laid back and Caribbean than Cancun, keeping with its pre-Hispanic and pirate past. Less than a kilometer wide and barely 8 km long, it is a typical palm-fringed tropical retreat, than began its urbanization back in the 1950's, when Cozumel and Cancun were just developers' distant dreams.
Isla Mujeres is a favorite destination for laid-back travelers and professional divers; though it is increasingly frequented by vacationers from Cancun who want to spend a night or two on the island. The locals are fishermen and divers who have lived here for generations; islanders who want the island to remain the paradise they know and love.
Sunsets are spectacular; it's like seeing a ball of fire going down into the sea, setting behind the cityscape of not-so-distant Cancun. There is only one small archaeological site on Isla Mujeres dedicated to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of love and fertility. For its unique location and historic importance, the temple is definitely worth visiting.
Ferries from Puerto Juarez and express boats from Cancun dock in the downtown area. As visitors arrive, they see colorful fishing boats, two lane avenues, and lots of outdoor cafes and restaurants. Golf carts, motorcycles and bicycles are the most common means of transportation and are available for rent.
The many and varied interesting attractions of the island are: Garrafon National Park, the Mayan temple, the Park of Sculptures, the colorful Isla Mujeres in Mexicodowntown area full of restaurants, bars and handicrafts shops, and Playa Norte (North Beach) with its beautiful white and tranquil crystal clear waters. We must not forget to mention Pirate Mundaca's Hacienda, which has a multitude of fascinating stories about eternal love surrounding it.
The most frequented and highly recommended beaches are located on the north tip of Isla Mujeres, where the shallow crystal clear waters are calm, with beautiful coral reefs a short distance from the shore.
You can also visit the Turtle protection center, a brilliant example of how to respect and protect endangered marine species. Diving enthusiasts find the El Farito and Manchones reefs, as well as the Cave of the Sleeping sharks, the best options to encounter the amazing marine life abundant in the area. |
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- HOTELS
- ATTRACTIONS
- RESTAURANTS
- NIGHTLIFE
- SHOPPING
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Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres 
Address: Calle Zazil Ha s/n Int 7, Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres
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Ixchel Beach Hotel 
Address: Calle Guerrero SM 1 M 17, Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres
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Isla Mujeres Palace 
Address: Carr Garrafon SM 7 M63 L1, Col Vista Alegre, Isla Mujeres
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Hotel BahÃa Chac Chi 
Address: Av Rueda Medina SM01 M8 L12, Col Centro, Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Casa IxChel Isla Mujeres 
Address: Av. Jesús Mártinez Ross, SM 4, Mza 98 lote 5, Salina Chica. Isla Mujeres
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Chac Chi Hotel and Suites 
Address: Av 5 de Mayo manz 79 lote 2 smz 3, Electricistas. Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Cristalmar Resort & Beach Club 
Address: Fracc. Laguna mar Makax L. 16, Fracc. Laguna Mar. Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Cabañas MarÃa del Mar 
Address: Av. Arq. Carlos Lazo #1. Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Plaza Almendros Isla Mujeres 
Address: Av. Hidalgo Lote 14 SM 1 Mz.18, Centro. Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Marias Kankin Isla Mujeres 
Address: Carretera al Garrafon Km. 4, Fracc. Mar Turquesa. Isla Mujeres
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Na Balam Suites Beach Hotel 
Address: Calle Zazilt-Ha No. 118 Playa Norte, Playa Norte. Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Posada del Mar 
Address: Avenida Rueda Medina #15-A, Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres 
Address: Av Adolfo López Mateos, Col Centro, Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Unik Island Resort and Spa Isla Mujeres 
Address: SM 009 Mza 055 Lote 008, Fracc del Sureste. Isla Mujeres
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Hotel Villa Vera Puerto Isla Mujeres 
Address: Puerto de Abrigo, s/n Col Elect, Isla Mujeres
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| TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN ISLA MUJERES / PLACES TO VISIT IN ISLA MUJERES |

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Contoy Island
Contoy Island, uninhabited by humans, is a bird sanctuary for large colonies of wild frigates and definitely a wonderful way to enjoy nature's beauty. Located about 45 minutes north of Isla Mujeres, Isla Contoy also has a scenic lookout tower with a spectacular panoramic view. Excursions are available daily, although a limited number of visitors are allowed and therefore prior reservations are a must. The day trip usually includes a continental breakfast, snorkeling and lunch on the beaches of Contoy.
Dolphin Discovery
Swim with dolphins on Isla Mujeres: It's a memory for a lifetime! This amazing educational experience is safe, fun and available for everyone, even if you don't know how to swim, since Dolphin Discovery has life jackets and a professional lifeguard takes care of guests. The level of interaction with the dolphins varies; it can range from just touching the friendly mammals, to kissing, swimming and even singing with them! Other animals live in Dolphin Discovery as well, like bull sharks, manta rays, titi monkeys, macaws and toucans, all waiting to meet you.
El Garrafon Marine Park
El Garrafon Park is named after an incredible reef formation which is only meters away from the coastline. The reef is the park's major, but not only attraction. El Garrafon is a natural living sculpture, part of the longest reef in the hemisphere and an example of an ecosystem that supports a large number of endangered species. Swimming and snorkeling are a piece of cake here, since the current is extremely gentle. You can also go kayaking, swim in the infinity pool, or experience the four station zip-line that goes from the upper side of a hill, to the sea and finally to the beach. The food at El Garrafon is great, and the impressive landscape seen from the main restaurant will take your breath away.
Mayan Temple
In pre-Columbian times, Isla Mujeres was a sacred place dedicated to worshipping Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of the moon, love and fertility. Back in those days, several offerings were taken to her temple, including clay figurines shaped as women. When the Spaniards arrived at the island and found the figures, they decided to name the island Isla Mujeres (Island of Women). Nowadays, there's only a small temple on the island, in the area known as Punta Sur. Since the landscape is so impressive, the temple is worth visiting.
Mundaca Pirate's Fortress
This fortress-like hacienda was built by a retired pirate whose name was Fermin Mundaca de Marechaga and used to cover nearly forty percent of the Island. During the early 19th century it was surrounded by wonderful gardens. He then proceeded to create a blissful paradise in a pretty, shady spot while making money from selling slaves to Cuba and Belize. Nowadays, only a few parts of the construction remain, and there's a small zoo within the grounds. Mundaca's hacienda has several stories of eternal love; discover them all during your vacation to Isla Mujeres.
Punta Sur
Almost 66 feet above sea level, on the southern tip of Isla Mujeres, there's a rocky zone named Punta Sur. This is the best place on the island to observe amazing dawns, since it's the first place in the whole country that the sun caresses with its warm rays. Because of the white sand that surrounds the island the multiple hues of the Caribbean Sea can be seen, as well as the refreshing show given by nature of crashing waves against the rocks at Punta Sur. As an extra bonus, there's a lighthouse in Punta Sur, for a better view of the whole area.
Punta Sur Sculpture Park
This beautiful park was inaugurated in 2001, after the success of the First International Sculpture Encounter, in Punta Sur, and this also happens to be where the first rays of sun touch Mexican soil each day,.
A total of 23 artists collaborated in the creation of the park, Mexican sculptors Jose Luis Cuevas and Sebastian were among them. Unlike most art galleries, these masterpieces are outdoors, on a rocky cliff surrounded by the turquoise waters of the beautiful Mexican Caribbean.
Turtle Farm
The turtle farm is one of Isla Mujeres' main attractions, and the island has been a nesting ground for enormous sea turtles for a very long time. Every year, from May to September, turtles hide their eggs in the soft sand until they hatch. These beautiful animals are now protected by the federal government, for they used to be slaughtered, eaten and their shells sold as souvenirs to tourists.
At the Turtle Farm (or Tortugranja, as locals call it) their eggs are kept away from natural predators and hunters, and little turtles are set free only when they're strong enough to survive in the wild. The process of releasing them is performed by local children, and also by tourists visiting the farm and is truly a magic moment.
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| RESTAURANTS IN ISLA MUJERES / PLACES TO EAT IN ISLA MUJERES |

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Angelo
Angelo is a traditional Italian restaurant serving an excellent variety of pasta dishes and extraordinary "homemade" pizza. Everything at Angelo's is prepared according to traditional recipes, and since the owners personally attend to you, guests always enjoy an excellent dining experience.
Bamboo
Like many restaurants on the island, Bamboo offers a pleasant outdoor area, enjoyable lounge music and shows sports on large TV screens. The sophisticated yet affordable menu includes dishes such as Thai Chicken in peanut Sauce, Pineapple Lobster, and many delicious desserts. Bamboo often has promotions on beer and cocktails, so ask you waiter as soon as you arrive!
Casa Louise Ixchel
Casa Louise Ixchel's singular menu was created by a chef of a very renowned culinary center in the United States and consists of Mexican and international specialties, mixed with the best of the island's cuisine. The extraordinary location offers you amazing sunsets and beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
Casa O's
Casa O's is located on the road to Punta Sur, in Isla Mujeres and actually opens at 1 p.m. However, visitors don't usually start to arrive until dusk. The restaurant is based around a huge oceanfront Palapa, which is surrounded by manicured gardens and pathways illuminated by torches and while eating dinner, you can watch the sky go from intense blue to red, and a little later turn black. Casa O's has an intimate atmosphere and the finest selection of lobster and steaks on the island.
CoMoNo Kitchen and Bar
CoMoNo Kitchen and BarThe friendly owners of CoMoNo offer a truly international eating experience that goes from hummus and falafels to Spanish tapas and shrimp tempura. Vegetarian options as well as homemade Schnitzel make this Mediterranean gourmet restaurant one in a class by itself. Large servings at reasonable prices, all dishes, dressing and sauces are made the same day, giving you quality and value. While waiting for your food, smoke a flavored tobacco hookah or admire the art gallery or boutique. The second floor is an acid-jazz bar lounge where there are also live bands and movies.
Don Chepo
This restaurant is located in the heart of Isla Mujeres, on Hidalgo Avenue. Don Chepo's specialty is grilled meat, so if you're in the mood for chicken fajitas, taquitos, or a juicy Rib-eye or a Sirloin steak, then this is the perfect choice for you. Don Chepo has many drinks to accompany your meal including fruit juice, soda, beer, cocktails (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and much more.
Elements of the Island
Start you day in Isla Mujeres having a delicious yet balanced breakfast at this unique coffee shop. Earth, wind, fire and water are depicted in the cafe's architecture and decor, which along with its garden and central fountain creates a harmonious atmosphere. Try their gourmet coffee, freshly squeezed fruit juice, as well as home made cereal, pasties, and pie.
Manana
Feed your stomach as well as your mind at this peculiar coffee shop. Manana (Tomorrow) serves delicious sandwiches and baguettes for breakfast, as well as interesting literature to start your day. The whole restaurant is designed to make customers feel at home and is decorated with cozy couches and small dining tables. You must try their coffee brewed with Italian beans and also the fresh fruit milk shakes and delicious biscuits, all while reading a book in English, Spanish or even German.
Pizza Rolandi's
Pizza Rolandi's has been a popular restaurant with locals and international travelers for a long time. The specialty, as the name implies, is the stone baked pizza and also garlic bread. Open for lunch and dinner, Pizza Rolandi's is always a great choice for authentic Italian flavors in Isla Mujeres. They also have an excellent wine list.
Sesoloco's
When touring around Isla Mujeres, make a stop in this friendly, open-air restaurant for a taste of the delicious local specialties and refreshing drinks. Salads, fresh seafood and typical plates like quesadillas, guacamole and flavorful soups are part of the varied Mexican menu offered at Sesoloco's. Italian pastas and juicy steaks are also served in this picturesque place, located right in the middle of this extraordinary Caribbean island.
Villa Rolandi
One of the best places to eat in Isla Mujeres is the restaurant at Villa Rolandi, which is ranked as one of the 50 best restaurants in Mexico. Try amazing Swiss and North Italian dishes, all in a fantastic atmosphere, overlooking the gorgeous Caribbean beach. Villa Rolandi really is an ideal spot for an exquisite, romantic dinner. |
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| NIGHTLIFE IN ISLA MUJERES / BARS & CLUBS |

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Bar OM
Located just off the main street is Bar Om, a cave of wonders. The artistic vibe is reminiscent of Gaudi and Van Gogh with Moroccan and Thai influences all fused together. Kick back, relax, and listen to the funky beats of jazz, acid jazz and reggae.
La Malquerida
This bar's surreal decor consists of a multitude of colors such as fuchsia, pale blue and mahogany red, along with antique items such as lanterns, pots, and meat grinders on the tables, all combined with soft illumination, modern art and handwritten proverbs on the walls. La Malquerida is an exciting alternative for nighttime entertainment, and also a fine dining experience.
Fayne's
Isla's best choice for traditional Caribbean fine dining is found at Fayne's. This restaurant offers the island's most exclusive location for vacationers looking for a true Mexican atmosphere, ideally located on the walkway to North Avenida Hidalgo.
Hotel Na-Balam Beach Bar
As the sun sets on Isla Mujeres the beach bar at the Hotel Na Balam in Playa Norte begins to heat up. It usually stays busy until around midnight and features live music on Saturdays and Sundays.
La Adelita
La Adelita is the island's one and only tequila bar, where you can sample from a variety of over 150 different tequilas, enjoy quality cigars, or relax with a delicious tropical cocktail. |
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| SHOPPING IN ISLA MUJERES / WHERE TO BUY IN ISLA MUJERES |

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Streets, walkways, beaches, and piers
Shopping and handicrafts in Isla Mujeres, MexicoHow would a carved wooden figurine you bought as a token of your visit to this charming island look in your home? Or how about a conch lamp with hanging seashells instead? Practically the whole island of Isla Mujeres is full of shops selling crafts made from local materials, so stop by one of these shops and admire the large conches brought up from the bottom of the sea by the local fishermen.
Downtown
Shopping and handicrafts in Isla Mujeres, MexicoIsla Mujeres is brimming with shops that carry an assortment of traditional items from all over Mexico. From handmade figurines made of seashells and thread, black pottery from Oaxaca, wooden masks, engraved glass ashtrays, and acrylic key chains, to complicated brightly-colored Mexican folk art, and sculptures of fantastical animal-like creatures called 'alebrijes' made of papier mache. A tour through the streets of Isla Mujeres is a must, almost as important as going snorkeling or sunbathing at Playa Norte.
shopping en isla mujeresIn Downtown Isla Mujeres there are a number of jewelry stores selling unique pieces made of silver and gold from Guerrero, mostly from the small town of Taxco. Also there are numerous necklaces, bracelets and charms with inlaid patterns of jade or amber, created mainly in Chiapas.
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