How to Get to Holbox Mexico (The Easiest Ways to Get There) 2025

Out of all the popular destinations in this part of Mexico, I’d say Isla Holbox is probably the trickiest one to reach, at least compared to Cancun, Tulum, or even Isla Mujeres.

Holbox is a small island not too far from Cancun, but it’s much less developed than the other beach towns nearby. That also means the infrastructure isn’t quite as smooth, so getting there takes a little more effort (and patience).

Personally, I don’t see that as a downside at all. In fact, that’s exactly what I love about it. The fact that it takes a bit more effort to get to Holbox means fewer crowds, quieter beaches, and a much more peaceful atmosphere, something I found hard to find in places like Tulum or Playa del Carmen these days.

And it seems I’m not the only one who feels this way. More and more travelers are skipping the overrun resort beaches and heading to Holbox instead for that laid-back island vibe. 

So, in this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to get to Holbox (Or at least how I usually do it), step by step, to make your trip there as easy (and stress-free) as possible.

How to Get to Isla Holbox – My Experience

I’ve been to Isla Holbox a couple of times, first about five years ago and again recently, and while a few things have changed, the journey hasn’t. 

I fell for Holbox the moment I arrived: I prefer a rustic, rough-around-the-edges island vibe with wide, empty white-sand beaches and no towering resorts like you get in Cancún. Not everyone will love that, and that’s fine, but it’s exactly my kind of place.

Getting there is honestly super straightforward. I’ve taken an ADO bus (Mexico’s equivalent of Greyhound or FlixBus) from Cancún or Playa del Carmen to Chiquilá, the small port town where the ferries leave, then hopped on the ferry and, about 25 minutes later, I was in Holbox. 

The first time I arrived really late and the ferries had stopped running, so I paid a local fisherman to take me across. It sounds wild, but among backpackers it’s more common than you’d think.

People make the trip sound more hectic than it is. It’s just a bus and a ferry, not an expedition. That said, I get it: not everyone wants to jump on a two-hour bus straight from the airport and then catch a ferry. Below I’ll explain the steps in order and include links for bus tickets, private shuttles and ferry bookings so you can choose what fits your travel style.

Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Isla Holbox

Holbox is Rough Around the Edges

Holbox is rustic, and I mean that in the best way. It’s not a polished resort town like Cancún; it’s a proper island with dirt roads, golf carts instead of cars (yep you heard right, there is no cars at all allowed in Holbox), and the occasional rooster alarm clock. The restaurant scene is small but charming, and what you lose in luxury, you gain in authenticity. For me, that’s the magic, a more untouched, laid-back escape that still feels real.

Book in advance

I always book my ADO bus tickets online before I go. The ADO website is in English and super easy to use. It just saves a lot of stress when you land. As for the ferry, I usually buy my ticket directly at the counter in Chiquilá, but you can also pre-book through Bookaway if you prefer to have everything sorted ahead of time.

Watch out for seaweed season

Seaweed is a real thing and honestly, I don’t even bother visiting this part of Mexico outside the dry season anymore because it’s gotten pretty bad in recent years. Holbox isn’t immune to it, and since the beach is the island’s main attraction, the seaweed can really ruin it. I only visit between December and February, when the beaches are usually clear and the weather is perfect.

Book hotels early

Because Holbox is so small, accommodation fills up quickly in high season. The best boutique hotels and beachside stays get snapped up months in advance, so I recommend booking early to get a good deal. You can check out my full guide on where to stay in Isla Holbox for hotel tips and personal favorites.

Get an eSIM (I Use Sim Local)

Wi-Fi can be spotty on the island, so I always make sure to have mobile data. I travel everywhere with an eSIM, and it’s made my life so much easier. I use Sim Local, they’re great, and you can sign up here using my discount code GIRLONAZEBRA for a small bonus.

How to Get to Holbox Mexico

Step 1: Transport to Chiquila (Ferry Port)

First things first, getting to Chiquilá, the small port town where ferries to Isla Holbox depart. It might look close to Cancún on the map, but thanks to the winding roads, it usually takes around 2–3 hours to get there.

I’ve always taken an ADO bus because, honestly, it’s the easiest and most convenient option. The buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and reliable, and I always book my ticket online in advance rather than queuing at the counter.

Buses run several times a day from different departure points. I’ve personally taken them from Cancún Downtown and Playa del Carmen, but there are also routes from Tulum and Cancún Airport, which makes the whole process super straightforward.

If public transport isn’t your thing, there’s a great alternative which is a private transfer: several private shuttle companies operate direct transfers from Cancún Airport to Chiquilá. I haven’t tried them myself, but the reviews are excellent, and it’s definitely a faster and more comfortable option if you don’t mind paying a bit extra.

Book Here: Ado bus to Holbox (Chiquila Ferry Port)

Book Here: Private Transfer to Chiquila Ferry Port

Step 2: Ferry Chiquila to Holbox Island

Next up, catching the ferry from Chiquilá to Isla Holbox. Don’t worry when I say Holbox is rustic; the ferry setup is perfectly modern. There’s a proper pier, two organized operators, and everything runs surprisingly smoothly, very similar to the ferry in Isla Mujeres, just on a smaller scale.

I’ve taken this ferry several times now, and every trip has been easy and reliable. The only exception was on my very first visit, when I arrived too late and ended up paying a fisherman to take me across, which, funny enough, is a common backpacker story here. But under normal circumstances, the ferry runs like clockwork.

Two companies operate on a 30-minute rotation, and the ride itself takes about 25–30 minutes. You never have to wait long for the next departure. I usually don’t buy tickets in advance; I just show up at the port and grab one from whichever company is leaving next. That way you’re not stuck waiting for a specific departure time.

Tickets cost around MXN 220 (roughly USD 13–14) and the sea is almost always calm since the area is well protected. In fact, I find it a smoother and more scenic ride than the ferry to Isla Mujeres.

Travel tip: Sit on the upper deck if the weather’s nice, you’ll get a great view of the turquoise water as you approach Holbox.

Book Here: Ferry Ticket from Chiquila to Holbox

Step 3: Getting to Your Hotel in Holbox Island

This last step really depends on where you’re staying. Both times I visited Holbox, I only had a small backpack and stayed near Playa Holbox and the town center, so I just walked from the ferry port and it took maybe 10–15 minutes tops. Check out my Where to Stay in Holbox guide to find the best area and hotel!

But I know that’s not the case for everyone. If you’re traveling with family, have bigger suitcases, or are staying at one of the hotels further down the beach, walking in the sand (and heat) might not be ideal.

In that case, grab one of the golf cart taxis, since there are no cars on Holbox, these little golf carts are the local taxis. You’ll find plenty of drivers waiting just outside the ferry port, and they’ll take you anywhere on the island. Fares depend on the distance but generally range from about USD 5–15.

Alternatively, check with your accommodation ahead of time, many hotels and resorts offer transfers or can arrange a golf cart pickup for you, which can be easier (and sometimes cheaper) than negotiating on arrival.

Travel tip: If you’re arriving after dark, definitely book a pickup in advance, the roads are unpaved, and finding your hotel on foot at night can be a bit tricky.

Alternative Ways of Visiting to Holbox Mexico

Fly from Cancun to Isla Holbox

One of the coolest and fastest ways to get to Isla Holbox from Cancun is by taking a flight. Yep, you can actually fly straight from Cancun International Airport to Holbox’s tiny airstrip, and it only takes around 30 minutes.

I haven’t done this myself (mostly because it’s a bit pricey), but I’ve looked into it and there are a few reputable companies offering private flights. 

The cost is roughly $1,000 per plane, which you can split between up to five people, so about $200 per person. Not terrible when you think about it, especially since it doubles as a scenic flight over some of the most stunning turquoise water in Mexico.

If you’re traveling for a special occasion, a honeymoon, bachelorette trip, or just want to treat yourself, this is honestly such a fun and unique way to arrive. It saves time, skips the crowds, and gives you those once-in-a-lifetime views right from the start.

Book Here: Private Flight from Cancun to Holbox

FAQs About How to Get to Holbox Mexico

How to get to Holbox from Cancun?

The easiest way is to take a bus or private shuttle to Chiquilá, then hop on the ferry to Isla Holbox. The whole journey usually takes around 3–4 hours depending on traffic and connections.

Is there a Cancun to Holbox flight?

Yes, there’s a private charter flight option from Cancun Airport to Holbox. It only takes about 30 minutes and offers incredible aerial views of the Yucatán coast and Yucatan Peninsula. It’s definitely the fastest and most comfortable way to arrive, especially if you’re traveling for a special occasion.

How to get to Holbox from Cancun Airport?

The easiest way is to catch either an ADO Bus or a private transfer from the airport to Chiquila. From Chiquila you can then catch the ferry to Isla Holbox.

Do you have to take a ferry to Holbox?

In most cases, yes. You’ll need to take the ferry from Chiquilá to Holbox, unless you choose to fly or arrange a private boat transfer.

Where is the ferry port for Holbox?

The ferry departs from Chiquilá, a small port town about 2–3 hours from Cancun. From there, ferries run every 30 minutes throughout the day to Isla Holbox.

Final Thoughts on Getting to Isla Holbox Mexico

People often make the trip to Holbox sound more dramatic than it really is. I remember chatting with travelers in Cancun who said it was such a hassle but honestly, I think it’s totally doable. Maybe it’s the backpacker in me, but this kind of travel day feels like part of the adventure.

And it’s so worth it. Holbox is easily one of my favorite spots in Mexico, and I’d recommend it to anyone, even if it takes a little extra effort to get there.

If buses and ferries aren’t your thing, you can always treat yourself to a private scenic flight instead. Either way, I hope this guide gave you a clear picture of how to get to Isla Holbox and that you’re now ready to make the trip.

Check Out My Other Isla Holbox Travel Guides

How to Get to Holbox: A Step by Step Guide

Is Holbox Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

The Best Time to Visit Isla Holbox: My Seaweed & Whale Shark Guide

Where to Stay in Isla Holbox: The Best Areas & Hotels

Best Restaurants in Holbox: My Favorite Places to Eat in Isla Holbox

Cafes in Holbox Island: The Top Cafes & Coffee Shops in Isla Holbox

Things to Do in Holbox: My Favorite Activities in Isla Holbox

Best Beaches in Holbox: My Favorite Holbox Beaches