How to Get to Isla Mujeres from the Cancun Airport: A Local’s Guide

Post by Kelly McLaughlin October 25,2024

Getting to Isla Mujeres is easy, and as someone who’s been living in the region for two decades, I can promise you that the trip is worth every minute. With soft white sands, exciting ocean activities and some major relaxation time, getting to Isla Mujeres is an ideal way to satisfy all your cravings for a perfect beach escape.

Why Visit Isla Mujeres?

• Ocean Bliss: The coast of Isla Mujeres offers some of the best snorkeling, diving, and fishing in the Mexican Caribbean.
• Beach Relaxation: Playa Norte’s cool, white sands and calm, turquoise water make it one of the best beaches in the world.
• Laid-back Vibe: Isla Mujeres is a chill little island, with colorful Mexican culture, groovy little beach clubs and authentic Mexican cuisine and seafood.

Getting There: Travel Options to Isla Mujeres

First, you’ve got to get to the Isla Mujeres ferry dock on the mainland, located in Puerto Juarez, 20 kms from the Cancun Airport, about a 30 minute direct drive, give or take a few minutes for traffic. You could take the ADO bus to Cancun Centro then negotiate a taxi with unknown drivers all while lugging your own baggage, but yeah, just skip it and book private in advance, that’s my best advice, my dos pesos if you will.The easiest way by far to get from the Cancun Airport to Isla Mujeres ferry dock is with private transportation.

The ferry to Isla Mujeres departs from the Puerto Juarez dock, The Isla Mujeres ferry costs approximately 462 mxn pesos round-trip and the ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes. The Isla Mujeres Ferry starts running at 5:30 am and the last returning ferry to Cancun departs at 12:00 am. The ferry ride itself is the start to a great Isla Mujeres vacation, the views of the turquoise sea will take your breath away.

Best Option: Private Transportation to Isla Mujeres Ferry Dock

The easiest, most comfortable and safest way to get from Cancun Airport to Isla Mujeres is to book a private shuttle. This service will take you directly to the ferry dock and can even include the Isla Mujeres ferry tickets.

Why?

Booking a private shuttle ensures a smooth and reliable ride. The bus only gets you to Cancun Centro and you have to manage your own bags and negotiate and navigate in Spanish. Taxis can be unpredictable, and while Uber is available, it’s not without its issues due to conflicts with the local taxi unions.

Local Tip: Cancun’s airport can be chaotic, with many “taxi” offers from unlicensed drivers, which can be scams. Stick with a trusted, pre-arranged service and avoid unnecessary risks.

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres

Whether you’re after luxury, boutique hotels, or more local accommodations, Playa del Carmen offers plenty of options.

• Luxurious Resorts: Resorts dot the island’s shores offering the beach vacation of a lifetime, pure luxury and VIP service.
• Boutique Hotels: For a more intimate vibe, consider chic options like La Casa de la Suenos where exclusivity, privacy and indulgence are all yours.
• Isla Mujeres Airbnb Rentals: Stay in a condo near the beach or a budget-friendly rental further inland for a local Isla experience.

Adventure Awaits in Isla Mujeres

• On the Water: Snorkeling and scuba diving along Isla’s coral reef, part of the second-largest barrier reef in the world, are must-do activities. You can also head over to Cancun for impressive underwater sculptures at MUSA.
• Once in a lifetime: Swimming with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres is a HUGE once in a lifetime opportunity.
• Deep sea fishing: Charter a yacht and head to the deep blue sea for the best fishing of your life!

Why I Keep Coming Back

As a long-time resident of Cancun, Isla Mujeres has always been one of my favorite spots for a fun weekend escape. There’s nothing like strolling along Hidalgo Avenue, discovering new artisans, indulging in handmade ice cream and fresh seafood, and enjoying a refreshing margarita (with a salted rim, of course). The people-watching is out of this world, and the beach is straight out of a travel documentary. Isla is a funky, refreshing,colorful destination that I never get tired of exploring.

Ready for Your Isla Mujeres Getaway?

Getting to Isla Mujeres is just the beginning of a fabulous Mexican Caribbean adventure. Whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth, Isla has so much to offer that you’ll want to come back over and over. From luxurious boutique hotels to exciting ocean activities, the perfect island getaway is waiting for you. Book your ride with a trusted local shuttle company and start your trip off stress-free. See you on the beach at Playa Norte Isla Mujeres! Peace and amor, amigos! - Kelly

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