The Ultimate Guide to the Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is not your typical Mexican vacation. It combines the best of scuba diving, yoga retreats, eco-tours, and family fun into one unique experience.
Though there may not be any world-class restaurants on Isla Holbox (some will say that’s a good thing), there are endless activities, beautiful beaches, and world-class diving spots. Holbox is the best of both worlds if you want to relax on a Mexican island but feel like you’re getting an authentic experience.
How to get Isla Holbox?
The best way to get to Isla Holbox is by flying into Cancun International Airport. Cancun is a major tourist hub with international flights from the US, Canada, and Europe. If you’re traveling from within Mexico, then your best option is to fly into the island’s small airstrip in Chiquila, which still has limited flight options.
How long to spend in Isla Holbox?
We recommend a minimum of 2 nights on Isla Holbox. It’s a small island which makes it easy to see the sights by bike or rented moped. As with any tropical resort, the high season runs from December until February, at which point prices drop for Spring Break and Easter holidays.
Isla Holbox is ideal for:
– Swimmers looking for calm waters without the big waves
– Snorkelers looking for a well preserved coral reef to explore in clear waters
– Anyone looking for an isolated island experience with plenty of wildlife and underwater scenery
The Best Way to Get Around on Isla Holbox
The best way to get around on the island is by bike. The flat landscape makes it easy to navigate, and renting a bike for one day costs about $5. If you’re looking to go further out or just stay lazy, then there are always taxis available that can take you around the island for $1-2
What to do and what to See in Isla Holbox
– Relax on the beach with a beer in hand. Holbox has an endless stretch of white sand beaches with small waves perfect for lounging and swimming.
– Go snorkeling in the coral reefs – Isla Holbox is home to one of Mexico’s largest barrier reef, so that you can expect great snorkeling
– All-inclusive yoga retreats and spa treatments at Komandoo
– The Museum of Mayan Archaeology located in the central square
Best Places to Stay in Is la Holbox
There are many different places to stay on the island. We recommend staying near the beachfront as most restaurants and shops are within walking distance of your accommodation.
– Vacation rentals – If you’re traveling with a group or family, then look into renting one of Isla Holbox’s vacation homes which usually have kitchens and a relaxing living room.
– The Beach Hotel – Isla Holbox’s only hotel with stunning ocean views from its springy spring beds. It is close to all the restaurants in town and one of the cheapest options on the island.
– Komandoo Yoga Retreat – Spend your days practicing yoga under the beach palms and your nights at the most luxurious hotel on the island. It is home to Isla Holbox’s most exotic restaurant, Naan Stop, where you can eat sushi in the sand under the stars.
– Hotel de la Viña – Located in Chiquila, about 10 minutes outside of town, this family-owned hotel
Nightlife in Isla Holbox
Holbox has lively nightlife whether you’re looking to dance or just drink cocktails in a rooftop bar.
– Blue Angel Bar – On the quiet side of town, this is Holbox’s most popular beachfront lounge and bar. Its big thatched roof provides shade during the day while its lights twinkle at night.
– Cafe del Mar – If you’re looking to party, then this is the place to be. Open-air bar with DJs and cheap beer.
Kartik’s is the main watering hole in town, offering live music and good vibes. If you’re looking for a casual night out to dance with friends, then this is it.
Las nubes beach club: This is the best beach club in town, with hammocks, day beds, and a swimming pool.
– THE HOT CORNER – This bar has a great happy hour and is often where the ex-pats go for drinks. It’s located right on the water with its pier, which you can walk out onto to view the sunset. There are also small huts nearby that you can rent, so you don’t have to remove your shoes before entering the sea.
– Isla Holbox Sunset Bar – This bar on the beach offers excellent views of the sunset and free BBQ on Mondays!
Isla Holbox facts:
– Central America’s largest barrier reef is off the coast
– Isla Holbox is home to an impressive range of animal species, including pumas, flamingos, and vultures
– In the southern half of the island, there are yearly whale shark sightings from mid-April until early November.
