Enjoy lazy days on white-sand beaches, superb wildlife spotting and varied watersports at this blissful and untamed island on the Yucatan Peninsula.
Discover the true essence of a Caribbean island dreamland at Isla Holbox. Swing in a hammock while watching ocean ripples on the shore, look for over 150 bird species and dabble in thrilling watersports. Isla Holbox lies where the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico meet. It forms part of the Yum-Balam Biosphere Reserve. Pristine beaches cover 22 of its 26 miles (36 of 42 kilometers) of length.
The island’s tourist center is Holbox, a small town characterized by sandy streets and colorful Caribbean architecture. Select from its abundance of guesthouses, hotels, seafood restaurants and tour operators. Nothing is far away in Holbox. It’s easy to get around by foot or rented bike or golf cart. Visit the Main Square, home to the Holbox Church, a kid’s playground and a basketball court.
A short walk northwest of the town is Holbox Beach. Its warm, shallow water is perfect for swimmers of all ages and abilities. Try kayaking, kitesurfing, stand-up paddle boarding and windsurfing. Join fishing trips and boating adventures to spot whale sharks from May to September.
Be amazed by the variety of birds inhabiting the coastline and Yalahau Lagoon, which separates the island from the mainland. See egrets, herons, ibis, flamingos and pelicans, among others. Spot crocodiles, dolphins, rays and turtles. Punta Mosquito Beach, at the island’s northernmost tip, is a great location for viewing flamingos.
Step aboard a boat and visit the islets scattered around the island. Come face-to-face with endangered birds via the walkways through Bird Island’s cacti and mangroves. Escape real-world stresses at the palm-fringed bays of Passion Island. Bathe in the freshwater spring of Yalahua Cenote.
Reach Isla Holbox by catching a bus from Cancún to Chiquilá then take a 15-minute ferry ride. Come prepared for year-round hot temperatures, with heavy rains and a large presence of mosquitoes from June to October.