Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres: 12 Best Hotels & Areas (Updated 2025)

White sand beaches, luxury hotels, super cool beach clubs, and some of the most delicious Mexican food, yep, that’s Isla Mujeres for you in a nutshell!

I’ve got to say, Isla Mujeres is one of my absolute favorite spots in Mexico for so many reasons. Sure, it’s swarming with tourists, a tad overpriced, and maybe not the most authentic slice of Mexico, but who cares? The beaches are stunning, the water is crystal clear, the food is just so tasty, and the Coronas are ice-cold. If you’re not having the best time on Isla Mujeres, it’s definitely not the island’s fault, you just need to embrace it for what it is.

I’ve visited countless times, and now it’s finally time to share all my tips and top recommendations for where to stay in Isla Mujeres. I’m here to help you discover the best areas and hotels for your next Mexico adventure.

In a Rush? Here Are Our Favorite Hotels in Isla Mujeres Mexico

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Izla Beach Front Hotel – Click here for rates & availability

⭐️⭐️ Casa del Jaguar – Click here for rates & availability

⭐️ Hotel Secreto – Click here for rates & availability

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres: BEST 5 Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres – My Experience

I’ve been to Isla Mujeres about five times now, which I know sounds like a lot, but I promise I have a good reason. I honestly think Isla Mujeres is one of the best destinations in this part of Mexico. Tulum or Cancun can sometimes feel a bit too big, busy, and overwhelming, but Isla Mujeres is smaller, more relaxed, and has that easygoing island vibe I can never get enough of.

Personally, I love staying close to the beach. Being able to walk to my favorite Mexican restaurants without cars honking at me every five seconds is exactly what I want from a vacation, and Isla Mujeres delivers that perfectly.

And let’s talk about the beaches. I really believe Isla Mujeres has some of the best in Mexico. Playa Norte especially is still so underrated in my opinion, it’s this dreamy stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. Honestly, what more could you ask for?

In the past I stayed at quite a few cheaper and more affordable hotels and hostels and recently I treated myself to my first upscale hotel in Isla Mujeres. I stayed at Casa del Jaguar which is located right on the beach and it’s so beautiful, I highly recommend!

The Best Areas to Stay in Isla Mujeres Mexico

Isla Mujeres might only be 7 km long, but don’t let its small size fool you, it’s not exactly walkable. That’s why you’ll see everyone (myself included) zipping around in golf carts. Honestly, that’s half the fun, but it also makes choosing the right area to stay in even more important. Each part of the island has its own vibe, so picking the spot that fits your type of trip really makes all the difference.

Playa Norte

If I had to choose a favorite, it’s hands down Playa Norte. I’m a huge fan of this area and it’s pretty much my go-to whenever I visit (and I’ve been more than five times now). What I love most is that it’s actually walkable, I can stroll to the beach, head to dinner, grab drinks, and just wander around without needing a golf cart. The beach here is stunning, with calm turquoise water, and the atmosphere feels lively but not overwhelming.

Punta Sur

I’ve also stayed down at Punta Sur, which is basically the opposite of Playa Norte. It’s quiet, remote, and has this peaceful vibe that I really enjoyed for a change of pace. The only thing is, it’s pretty isolated. So while I loved the calm, I definitely needed to rent a golf cart to get around the rest of the island. If you’re looking for relaxation and don’t mind being away from the action, Punta Sur might be your spot.

Sac Bajo (Great for Families)

If you’re traveling with kids or just want everything in one place, Sac Bajo is a fantastic choice. This area is lined with family-friendly resorts that come with private beaches and swimming pools. It’s more of a resort-style stay, which means you’ll probably spend a lot of time on-site, but for families it’s super convenient.

Salina (For a Budget-Friendly Local Vibe)

For something affordable and authentic, Salina is a great option. It’s not touristy at all, which means you’ll find smaller hotels, guesthouses, and homestays at very reasonable prices. The beaches aren’t on your doorstep here, but it’s a good base if you don’t mind using a golf cart to get around and want to save some cash.

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres for the First Time: Playa Norte

I’ve visited Isla Mujeres multiple times now, but Playa Norte, which is right in Downtown Isla Mujeres, remains my favorite spot. As the name suggests, it’s on the north side of the island, and it’s got everything you need. The ferry arrives here, and there are tons of great hotels and resorts in the area. Plus, most of the bars and restaurants are located right here.

Sure, it’s the most touristy part of the island, but it’s also super convenient, especially for first-timers. Playa Norte just has those stunning views of crystal-clear blue water and powdery white sand beaches—perfect for swimming and sunbathing!

Things to do in Playa Norte:

You’ve got to try the most delicious Carne Asada, steaks, Chile Relleno, and Queso at my favorite restaurant on the island, Lola Valentina.
Spend a day at Zama Beach Club. Enjoy cheap beers, savor delicious food, and soak up the sun.
Go snorkeling and check out the famous underwater museum, MUSA. (Click here for snorkeling trips)
Rent a golf cart and explore the island. Don’t forget to stop at Punta Sur for breathtaking views and the best sunset spots.

Best Hotels to Stay in Playa Norte

Casa del Jaguar Beach Hotel // My Top Hotel in Isla Mujeres

Honestly, Casa del Jaguar Beach Hotel has been the nicest place I’ve stayed at on Isla Mujeres so far. Back in my earlier travels I was always on a budget, so this was actually the first real luxury hotel I treated myself to and wow, it did not disappoint.

From the second I arrived, the staff were so friendly and welcoming, the food and drinks were fantastic, and the pool overlooking the ocean was the kind of spot I could (and did) spend entire days just lounging at. It was absolutely beautiful and such a highlight of my trip.

Book Here: Casa del Jaguar Beach Hotel

Hotel Secreto // Best Boutique Hotel in Isla Mujeres

One of the more modern hotels in Isla Mujeres is Hotel Secreto. Its rooms offer wonderful views of the north end and the western coast of the island. The hotel has a stunning new pool, perfect for relaxing all day, and offers a range of other services like golf cart rentals, tours to the turtle farm, and swimming with whale sharks.

Book Here: Hotel Secreto

Hotel Bahia Chac Chi

If you’re looking for one of the best cheap hotels in Playa Norte, then Hotel Bahia Chac Chi is perfect for you. It’s located within walking distance of downtown and the beach, and most of the rooms come with a private balcony. It’s really the only hotel in a lower price range I found that offers great value for money.

Book Here: Hotel Bahia Chac Chi

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres for Quiet Beaches: Punta Sur

If you’re looking for a serene escape, Punta Sur on the southern tip of Isla Mujeres is the place to be. It’s much quieter down here, and I loved the less crowded beaches. It’s perfect for some peace and relaxation away from the downtown hustle and bustle.

Punta Sur is known for its stunning views, pristine beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. There are plenty of accommodation options, from charming boutique hotels to more social hostels.

Just a little tip from my adventure: Punta Sur is quite far from the ferry terminal, so you’ll need to grab a taxi or shuttle when you arrive.

Things to do in Punta Sur:

Head to the Punta Sur viewpoint for fun art installations and some of the best views of the island.
Visit the famous El Farito lighthouse for amazing photo opportunities.
Take a dip in the natural pool at Garrafon Park, where you can also snorkel, zipline, and enjoy a variety of water activities.
Hang out at the Mayan Monkey Beach Bar for great drinks and fun parties.

Best Hotels to Stay in Punta Sur

Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres

One of my favorite hotels on Isla Mujeres, located on the south side of the island, is Hotel La Joya. This charming boutique hotel offers stunning ocean views, private balconies, and an infinity pool overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. What really sets this hotel apart is its focus on sustainability. They have a beautiful garden with herbs and vegetables used in their restaurant, as well as solar panels for energy efficiency.

Book Here: Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres

Mayan Monkey Isla Mujeres // Best Hostel in Isla Mujeres

My favorite hostel on the island, Mayan Monkey Isla Mujeres, is just a stone’s throw from the beach in Punta Sur. It’s a fun spot with tons of options, from standard dorms to private rooms with ocean views. They’ve got an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant, where you can chow down on tasty food and drinks while hanging out with other travelers.

Book Here: Mayan Monkey Isla Mujeres

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres for Families: Sac Bajo

Sac Bajo is a long, isolated strip of beach on the east side of Isla Mujeres. It’s quiet and residential but also home to some of the most luxurious resorts on the island. If you’re traveling with your family and looking for a more peaceful and upscale experience, Sac Bajo is definitely worth considering.

This area is also where the Turtle Sanctuary used to be (unfortunately, it’s permanently closed) and is home to Dolphin Discovery, where kids can swim with dolphins.

Things to do in Sac Bajo:

Relax on the beach. The beach at Sac Bajo is calm and ideal for swimming, perfect for families with young children. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the clear blue waters.
Visit Dolphin Discovery. This family-friendly attraction offers interactive experiences where you can swim and play with dolphins. It’s a memorable experience that both kids and adults will love.

Best Hotels to Stay in Sac Bajo

Izla Beach Front Hotel

One of my favorite hotels in Isla Mujeres is the Izla Beach Front Hotel. The Izla Hotel features an incredible pool area with sunbeds and a bar where you can enjoy the most amazing sunsets. If the pool gets too cold at night, you can head up to their rooftop bar for another stunning view of the sunset. It’s truly breathtaking.

Book Here: Izla Beach Front Hotel

Hotel Belo Isla Mujeres

If you’re happy to dig a little deeper into your pockets for a luxurious stay, I highly recommend Hotel Belo Isla Mujeres. It is one of my number one Isla Mujeres hotels and it is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean. With spacious rooms, an infinity pool, and a top-notch restaurant, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing and memorable vacation.

Book Here: Hotel Belo Isla Mujeres

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres for a Local Vibe: Salina

The Salina neighborhood is basically central Isla Mujeres and located in the mid island area. This means you are close to everything and can easily walk or bike around the island.

Salina offers a more local feel with plenty of small shops, markets, and restaurants. You’ll also find a few budget-friendly accommodations in this area, making it perfect for travelers on a budget who want to experience the authentic side of Isla Mujeres.

Things to do in Salina:

Try some of my favorite food at Green Verde, where you can enjoy delicious chilaquiles, fish tacos, and affordable margaritas. Alternatively, check out Mango Cafe, perfect for a hearty Mexican breakfast.

Best Hotels to Stay in Salina

Villas Najo Isla Mujeres

Here, you can enjoy a fully equipped one-bedroom apartment with a spacious, bright living area and access to the property’s pool. The highlight of this accommodation is the beautiful rooftop terrace, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views of the island. It’s also just a short walk from the main beach in Salina.

Book Here: Villas Naja Isla Mujeres

Suites Haixa

Located just a few minutes from Salina’s main square, this hotel offers spacious and modern suites with kitchenettes and comfortable beds. The property also has a cute little private balcony, perfect for chilling in the hammock and watching the sunset.

Book Here: Suites Haixa

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres – Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun Airport?

To get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun Airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the ferry terminal in Puerto Juarez or Gran Puerto. From there, you can take a 20-minute ferry ride to Isla Mujeres. Click here for ferry tickets!

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Isla Mujeres?

The best time of year to visit Isla Mujeres is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny with temperatures averaging between 75-85°F (24-29°C). This is also considered high season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June or October-November!

Is Isla Mujeres Expensive?

Isla Mujeres can be expensive, especially during high season. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for accommodation, dining, and activities. It all depends on your travel style and preferences.

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres – Final Words

With so many areas and hotels in Isla Mujeres, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay in Isla Mujeres.

I hope my guide helps you make a decision. Consider your budget, travel style, and what you want to experience on the island. Regardless of where you choose to stay, Isla Mujeres has something for everyone, from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels, there’s no wrong choice.