Your Perfect Weekend in Isla Holbox with iBestTravel

iBestTravel’s travel expert recently returned from a weekend in Isla Holbox, Mexico. Here she shares trip highlights and what to prepare for before you step foot on the island.

Why Choose Isla Holbox for Your Getaway?

What screams “30” better than a girls’ trip? When my sister proposed a weekend getaway for her birthday, she envisioned one destination – Isla Holbox. If you’re yearning for a Mexican escape without throngs of tourists but with beach clubs and fantastic cuisine, then Holbox is your ideal retreat. Once she set the dates, I could already picture myself lounging on a cozy beach chair while the ocean waves washed over my worries.

While I’ve enjoyed typical destinations like Cancun and Tulum, I had yet to explore beyond the popular spots in the Yucatán. That’s where Holbox steps in. I’d never met anyone who had visited before, so I am truly grateful my sister introduced me to its enchanting beauty.

Where to Stay and the Atmosphere

Holbox is undoubtedly a hotel paradise. This car-free island allows you to navigate by bike or taxi buggy (pro tip: keep some cash handy, particularly small bills). We chose to stay at Punta Caliza, drawn by its boutique ambiance, beach club, and proximity to the ocean. Located about a 5-minute buggy ride from the center, each room features a swim-up pool, breakfast included, and a stunning lookout point.

The Nômade hotel also piqued my interest. Positioned toward the island’s southern end, it’s a bit farther from the center, yet still conveniently accessible. The beach club and restaurant near Playa Punta Cocos are breathtaking, and I already plan to stay there during my next visit.

My suggestion: select a hotel near the beach. Beach club access can often save you both time and money. Reservation costs can vary, typically falling between $20–65, but these are usually applicable towards food and drink orders.

Unforgettable Dining Experiences

As a vegetarian who cherishes delightful meals, traveling can present its challenges. However, dining in Holbox, renowned for its Mexican cuisine, offered some of the freshest bites I’ve savored in recent time. I was especially impressed by the healthy brunch at Painapol and an extraordinary six-course tasting menu at Milpa, which had us marveling at each dish for a good 15 minutes.

At Ser Casasandra’s Mojito Beach Club, we indulged in chile relleno tacos (featuring almond cheese) paired with tostones and guacamole. We couldn’t resist ordering three rounds! Every meal was refreshingly packed with vegetables, seafood, and delectable sauces, elevating our dining experience. I must admit, the avocados in Holbox are on another level compared to those I’ve encountered in New York!

Planning Your Trip — What to Reserve Ahead of Time

Ensure you arrange transportation, dining, and beach clubs prior to arrival. You can book a van from Cancun airport to reach Chiquila, where you’ll catch the ferry to Isla Holbox for around 300 MXN. It’s advisable to carry cash for ferry tickets; while some establishments accept cards, reliability varies.

Given that beach clubs can fill up quickly, securing your first choice before your arrival will make a significant difference. If your hotel features a beach club, consider booking through them for more convenience.

Your Essential Beach Clubs

• Mojito Beach Club
• Casa Punta Cocos
• Zomay—Perfect for stunning sunsets
• Casa Las Tortugas

Must-Do Activities in Holbox

The highlight of Holbox is Punta Mosquito, a nature reserve on the island’s northern side, which promises an enjoyable 1–1.5-hour walk along picturesque sandbars. You’ll encounter stunning wildlife, including stingrays and flamingos. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and a cover-up to protect yourself from the sun’s harsh rays!

Additionally, I indulged in horseback riding after booking a few weeks in advance. While it took some getting used to, we were quickly back in the saddle, soaking in the stunning ocean views along the beach. Following our equestrian adventure, we rushed back to our hotel for refreshing drinks at Zomay to cap off a perfect day.

Essential Packing List

For a successful trip, ensure you pack the following:

• Hat and Sunscreen: The sun is fierce! I recommend bringing your ocean-friendly zinc oxide sunscreen to ensure you avoid any skin issues.
• Bug Spray: Remember, Punta Mosquito translates to “mosquito point,” so protect yourself with insect repellent.
• Cash: While some places accept credit cards, cash is often preferred, particularly in local establishments. Bring smaller bills for taxis.