Why you should visit Isla Holbox

I should really tell you that you should never visit this fairy tale island because increased tourism is a double-edged sword for such a lovely, tranquil little place.  However, in the spirit of full disclosure, I will admit that this was the most heavenly vacation spot and that you should absolutely make the trek if you want a very non-resort-like beach vacation experience.

Located a 2-hour shuttle ride and 25-minute ferry crossing north of Cancun, Isla Holbox is about as far away from the vibe of Cancun as you can get.  For starters, 2/3 of the island is a natural protected area with a lush jungle vibe.  There are very few cars and most people travel by foot, bike, golf cart or motorcycle.  You can safely stroll down the dirt roads at all hours, or you can rent a bike or golf cart for a few hours or for the whole day.  While I did see some visitors from the US, the majority I encountered were from Europe and Mexico. 

One of many opportunities for swinging in the surf. 

One of many opportunities for lounging in the sea.

There are so many hammocks, and hammock chairs, on this lovely island.

Colorful bikes with baskets! They're everywhere!

View of the island from the ferry. 

At certain times of the year you can swim with whale sharks, visit nearby islands to view flamingos or check out the bioluminescence in the water at night!  If you’re adventurous, you can also go kiteboarding or explore all that beauty underwater.  I personally stepped on something that moved on the ocean floor and I flew out of the water like I had been attacked by an ocean predator.  The next morning, I saw three starfish in the same location so I think I was the one doing the attacking.

I visited Holbox at the end of January and it was pleasantly warm with a little bit of rain and spectacular cloud displays every day.  The water glistened with shades of turquoise, a gentle breeze and lots of palm trees providing shade, perfect for an afternoon nap.  Head out to Punta Coco for the best sunset views, or hang out on a swing at the Hotel Zomay beach bar for a second-best view.  There are large swaths of ocean where the water is shallow enough to walk for 100+ feet without getting your shorts wet, which makes you feel a bit like you are walking on water, and there are swing sets and hammocks available at multiple spots in the ocean shallows.  There’s nothing better than contemplating  your next steps in life on an ocean swing or in an ocean hammock.

There was some rain, but thankfully, there was also some solid sun.

Sampling of wildlife. 

Sampling of sunsets. 

There are several beach clubs where you can cop a squat for a few hours while swimming, lounging and enjoying food and drinks.  I normally don’t take pictures of my meals but the food on the island was so beautiful and so delicious that I simply could not help myself.  The island is also brimming with an exquisite collection of street art.  Make your way to the centro and simply wander down each street to discover one awesome piece of art after another. If you get tired, head back to the beach to look for one of the many huts with massage tables set up for one of the best hours of your life.  And then head to any other beach hut for some food and drink to continue replenishing your soul.

While the island does have cell phone and internet service in many locations, if you want to disconnect, you definitely can.  I stayed up late enough to see the glittering array of stars in the sky each night, but also got 10-12 hours of quality sleep each night.  No cars, no church bells, no fireworks or roosters.  It was heavenly!

So much glorious street art. 

So much glorious food. 

So many sights to help you relax.

There are lots of options for where you can rest your head, including hostels for around $10 a night, super fancy hotels, inexpensive and mid-range hotels, and hippy campgrounds.  There were three ATMs on the island when I visited, but I was warned that they may or may not be working on any given day, and cards aren’t accepted most places (including at many hotels), so get your pesos before you arrive and bring sunscreen, bug spray, flip flops and a hat for maximum comfort.

So there you have it.  Isla Holbox is a little slice of heaven.  If you want to see it in its prime, get there before celebrities start Instagraming it, and make sure you do your part to keep it clean and conserve water while you're a guest.