The 9 Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres + 2 Things I’d Skip (2025)

Isla Mujeres may be small, but she packs a punch. The island’s only 5 miles long, yet somehow it’s got the most beautiful beaches, amazing food, and margaritas that could honestly fix most life problems. 

Most people come here for a day trip from Cancun, but once you’ve had a sunset drink on Playa Norte, you’ll get why I always tell people to stay a few nights.

After visiting Isla Mujeres more times than I can count, I’ve figured out what’s worth your time and what’s just a tourist trap in disguise. From swimming with whale sharks and morning yoga at The Treehouse to the best beach clubs and local eats, here are all the top things to do in Isla Mujeres and two popular spots I’d personally skip.

Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres — My Experience 

Isla Mujeres is one of those places I just keep finding myself coming back to. It doesn’t matter that I’ve done pretty much everything on this list multiple times; it never gets old. 

The first time I visited, I actually wasn’t a huge fan. It was in the middle of a backpacking trip, the weather was awful, and while drinking margaritas under a restaurant roof is fun for a while, after three days of rain, I was more than ready to get off that island. I honestly thought, adios, hope to never see you again.

But thank goodness I was so wrong. A few months later, some friends were heading there for Christmas and New Year’s, so I gave it another chance and wow. When the sun is shining and there’s that festive island buzz in the air, Isla Mujeres just glows.

I spent my mornings doing yoga overlooking the ocean, sneaking in a quick swim before coffee and breakfast, and then jumping on a golf cart to explore every corner of the island. While it’s small, there’s just enough to keep you entertained for a proper beach getaway. And honestly? If I’ve got a beach, good food, and somewhere to wander, I’m happy. So, let’s get into all the best things to do on Isla Mujeres and how to make the most of your time here.

9 Things to do in Isla Mujeres

If you’re planning a trip to Isla Mujeres, get ready for turquoise water, palm trees, and just the right mix of chill and adventure. 

From snorkeling and yoga to tacos and live music, here are all my favorite things to do on the island.

1. Hang Out at Playa Norte

Playa Norte is the beach everyone talks about on Isla Mujeres, and for good reason. It’s easily one of the prettiest beaches I’ve ever been to, with soft white sand, turquoise water, and palm trees swaying just enough to remind you that life’s pretty good.

Yeah, it gets crowded during the day, especially when all the day-trip boats from Cancun show up, but even then, it’s still beautiful. If you want a quieter spot or don’t want to pay for a sun bed, walk down toward Green Demon Beach Club. Right before it, there’s a small stretch of beach with palm trees and soft sand that feels like a little hidden corner. That’s my go-to spot every time.

I usually grab some beers from the corner shop, or if I’m in the mood for something a little fancier, I’ll grab a piña colada from Green Demon and bring it back to my towel. The water here is so calm and clear that you can just float for hours. And when the sun starts to set, everything turns pink and golden; it’s easily my favorite time to be there.

2. Visit Punta Sur

This is probably the second most popular thing to do on Isla Mujeres, and honestly, it deserves the hype. It’s at the very southern tip of the island, and it feels completely different from the calm, turquoise water up north. Down here, the waves crash against the cliffs with so much force it’s crazy!

I’ve been a few times now, and every time I’m blown away by how wild and beautiful it is. There’s a little walking path that winds along the coastline with ocean views in every direction. You’ll pass by some Mayan statues, a few lookout points, and a bunch of iguanas sunbathing. It’s such a unique stop on the island.

It’s not something that takes a ton of time, maybe an hour or so, but it’s absolutely worth it. Bring a hat, some water, and your camera. And if you’re exploring by golf cart, definitely make this one of your main stops for the day.

3. Go Snorkeling or Diving

If you only do one water adventure on Isla Mujeres, make it snorkeling. The water here is ridiculously clear, and there’s so much marine life that it feels like you’ve dropped into a giant aquarium.

I did the Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure with Diego and Ernesto, and it was honestly one of the best experiences I’ve had on the island. They took us to three different spots, including the famous MUSA Underwater Museum, which is filled with these hauntingly beautiful sculptures covered in coral. We also swam over colorful reefs packed with fish, and even spotted a turtle gliding by.

What made it extra special, though, was how personal it felt. Both guides made sure we saw as much as possible without ever feeling rushed. It was just such a fun, easy day out on the water.

If you want to book the same tour, this is the one I recommend: Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure.

4. Morning Yoga at The Treehouse

When I need a little break from my taco-beach-margarita routine, I always end up at The Treehouse for morning yoga. It’s this open-air studio that literally sits right over the water, and as you’re moving through class, you can hear the waves and feel the ocean breeze coming through. It’s honestly one of the most peaceful ways to start the day.

I usually go to the 7:30 a.m. class (there’s also one at 9 a.m.), and it’s perfect because the island is still quiet, just a few golf carts puttering by and the sound of the sea. They also do a sunset class, but it’s a little busier on the beach then, so I prefer the mornings.

Afterwards, I always walk straight to Café Mogagua for breakfast and a coffee, still half in a post-yoga haze, before heading back to the beach. It’s the best kind of balance.

5. Explore Downtown Isla Mujeres

Downtown Isla Mujeres might be small, but it’s packed with charm. The streets are lined with colorful buildings, local shops, and restaurants spilling out onto the sidewalk. I usually start around Avenida Hidalgo, where you’ll find most of the action: live music, street tacos, and boutiques selling everything from handmade jewelry to embroidered dresses.

It’s also where I go when I need a break from the beach. I’ll grab a smoothie or iced coffee, pop into a few shops, and just people-watch for a bit. There’s such a laid-back rhythm here, especially in the late afternoon when the sun softens and everyone’s out strolling.

And if you’re around for happy hour, keep an eye out; there are tons of 2-for-1 margarita deals downtown. It’s vacation, so why not, right? For dinner, head to Lola Valentina (my absolute favorite restaurant on the island), and then end the night at El Patio for some live music and good vibes. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a beach day in Isla Mujeres.

6. Rent a Golf Cart and Explore the Island

I firmly believe you can’t go to Isla Mujeres without renting a golf cart for at least one day. It’s just part of the experience; wind in your hair, salty air on your skin, cruising past turquoise water on one side and beach bars on the other. It’s basically the island version of freedom.

The whole island only takes about 30 minutes to drive around, but trust me, you’ll want to make a few stops. The Soggy Peso is one of my favorite little bars to pop into for a drink (their margaritas are no joke), Kin Ha has a chill swimming area where you can rent paddle boards or snorkel for a bit, and there’s a cute coffee spot down south that’s perfect for a mid-morning break.

Just grab a cart, throw on some sunscreen, and start exploring—the best memories on Isla usually happen when you’re cruising around on a golf cart with no real plan.

7. Spend the Day at a Beach Club

Some of my favorite days on Isla Mujeres have been the ones where I did absolutely nothing, just parked myself at a beach club and stayed there until sunset. There’s something so perfect about it: good music in the background, a frozen margarita in hand, and turquoise water right in front of you.

Green Demon is usually my go-to. It’s laid-back but still has that fun beach vibe, and their drinks are amazing. I’ll usually grab a sun bed, order a couple of snacks, and just stay there for hours, swimming when it gets too hot and chatting with whoever ends up next to me. If I’m feeling fancy, Zama is another great option closer to Playa Centro. It’s a little more upscale, making it perfect for couples and privacy! 

Honestly, if you’re in the mood to just chill and lean into the island life, a beach club day is essential. No plans, no stress, just you, the ocean, and a drink that keeps refilling itself.

8. Try the Local Food

I was honestly so shocked at how good the food is on Isla Mujeres. Usually, the more touristy the place, the worse the food, like, how many overpriced soggy tacos can one person eat? But Isla totally proved me wrong. From hole-in-the-wall taco stands to fancy oceanfront dinners, the island seriously nails it.

Some of my go-to spots are Lola Valentina for their aracherra steak and creative cocktails, Mogagua for brunch (their chilaquilas are out of this world), and Fish & Gin if you’re craving something a little more modern. And of course, you can’t skip Taquerias Los Burritos, which are easily some of the best tacos on the island.

Whether you’re after street eats or date-night vibes, Isla Mujeres has you covered. For a more detailed list, check out my Top 10 Restaurants in Isla Mujeres. I’ve eaten at every single one, and trust me, they’re worth it.

9. Swim with Whale Sharks

Sadly, I haven’t actually had the chance to swim with whale sharks yet because I’ve never been on Isla Mujeres during whale shark season, but it is so high on my bucket list. Every summer (roughly June to mid-September), these gentle giants migrate through the waters off the coast, and you can actually swim alongside them, how crazy?!

Every time I visit the island, I swear I see photos or hear stories from people who’ve done it, and it looks unreal, with calm blue water, giant whale sharks cruising by, and everyone just floating there in awe. When I finally time my trip right, this is the first thing I’m doing.

Two Things I’d Skip on Isla Mujeres

Alright, let’s be honest, not everything on Isla Mujeres is worth your time. For such a small island, it packs in a ton of activities, but a few are definitely more tourist traps than treasures. 

So here are the two things I’d personally skip

1. Garrafón Natural Reef Park

This one sounds amazing on paper, I mean, it has ocean views, snorkeling, infinity pools, but in reality, it’s kind of a letdown. Garrafón can be super crowded, pretty pricey for what you get, and the snorkeling area is tiny and roped off, so you can’t actually explore much on your own. 

Most people go expecting this untouched natural reef adventure, but it’s really more like a cruise excursion stop with drinks, a disappointing buffet, and lots of people. 

If you’re looking for a more chill and authentic vibe, I’d skip Garrafón and head to Kin Há Beach Club instead. It’s way more relaxed, you can snorkel right from the shore, and it feels more like the laid-back Isla experience everyone falls in love with.

2. Dolphin Discovery

I know this one pops up on every “top things to do” list, but personally, I’m not a fan. The enclosures are small, and it’s tough to ignore the ethical side of keeping such intelligent animals in captivity for entertainment.

If seeing marine life is what you’re after, go for something more natural like snorkeling at MUSA or swimming with whale sharks (seasonally, of course). You’ll still get those incredible ocean moments, but in a way that respects the wildlife and the island’s ecosystem.

FAQs: What To Do in Isla Mujeres Mexico

What are some free things to do in Isla Mujeres?

Honestly, some of the best parts of Isla are totally free like swimming at Playa Norte, watching the sunset, walking around downtown, visiting Punta Sur, or doing yoga on the beach. You really don’t have to spend a ton of money to have an amazing time here.

What are the best things to do in Isla Mujeres with family?

Families love snorkeling trips, exploring the island by golf cart, and spending lazy days at the beach. Playa Centro is especially great for kids since the water is calm and shallow.

What are the best things to do in Isla Mujeres at night?

Evenings on the island are the best! Go for dinner at Lola Valentina, grab a 2-for-1 margarita deal downtown, and head to El Patio for live music and dancing. If you’re in the mood for something chill, sunset beers on Playa Norte are hard to beat.

When is the best time to go to Isla Mujeres?

The best time to visit Isla Mujeres is from December to May, when the weather is sunny and the water is clear. June to November is hurricane season, and while it’s still warm, you might get more rain (and sargassum seaweed).

What are the most romantic things to do in Isla Mujeres?

For a romatic getaway in Isla I recommend watching the sunset on Playa Norte, have dinner by the water at Muelle 7, and book a couple’s massage or private snorkeling trip. Honestly, the whole island has that laid-back, tropical romance vibe, it’s hard not to fall a little bit in love here.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres Mexico

Even after visiting Isla Mujeres so many times, I still don’t think it’s a place that’s about doing a million things, and honestly, that’s what makes it so special. The island has this easy, breezy rhythm that just pulls you in. Sure, the snorkeling and beaches are incredible, but it’s the laid-back mornings, the sunset margaritas, and the friendly locals that really make Isla what it is.

So don’t worry about checking off every item on this Isla Mujeres travel list. Do the things that sound fun, skip what doesn’t, and leave a little space to just be on island time. Grab a golf cart, chase a few sunsets, and let Isla work its magic; it always does to me.

Check Out My Other Isla Mujeres Travel Guides

Restaurants on Isla Mujeres: My Top Food Spots

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

Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

How to Get to Isla Mujeres: The Easiest Way to Get There

Best Time to Visit Isla Mujeres: My Seaweed & Weather Guide

Isla Mujeres Beaches: My Favorite Beaches in Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Isla Mujeres

Day Trip to Isla Mujeres: How to Spend 1 Day in Isla Mujeres