You’re sitting in Cancun, staring at the turquoise waters, and you can’t help but wonder—what’s out there?
Those islands everyone keeps talking about. The ones in the Instagram photos. The hidden beaches. The underwater caves.
Here’s the truth: You’ve got some incredible options. And I’m going to show you exactly how to get there, what it costs, and which one deserves your time.
Let’s dive in.
Quick Answer: Best Islands Near Cancun to Visit
Five beautiful islands are within reach of Cancun.
Isla Mujeres sits just 15 minutes offshore. Think gorgeous beaches, fresh lobster, and that laid-back Caribbean vibe.
Cozumel is where divers come to play. Crystal-clear waters. The Mesoamerican Reef. Underwater magic.
Holbox takes you off the grid completely. No cars. White sandy beaches for days. Swimming with whale sharks if you time it right.
Isla Contoy is the nature lover’s dream. A protected natural reserve. Only 200 people allowed per day.
Isla Blanca is Cancun’s best-kept secret. Empty beaches. Perfect for kitesurfing. Hardly anyone knows about it.
Here is the Mexico official Tourism website.
Which Mexico Island Should You Choose?
First-Time Visitors → Isla Mujeres
Look, if you’re new to the area, start here.
The ferry from Puerto Juarez takes 15 minutes. Fifteen. You could literally do this on a whim.
Rent a golf cart. Cruise around the island. Hit Playa Norte for some of the softest white sand you’ll ever feel. Grab fresh seafood. Be back in Cancun by dinner.
But first read out Is Isla Mujeres Safe for Families?
Easy. Affordable. Unforgettable.
Scuba Divers & Snorkelers → Cozumel
Cozumel is one of those places divers talk about in hushed, reverent tones.
Why? The visibility. We’re talking 100 feet of crystal-clear waters. You can see everything.
It’s part of the Mesoamerican Reef—the second-largest reef system on the planet. Whether you’re trying snorkeling and scuba diving for the first time or you’ve been diving for years, this place will blow your mind.
Nature & Wildlife Lovers → Isla Contoy
Here’s something cool: Contoy Island only allows 200 visitors per day.
That’s it. Just 200.
This protected natural reserve hosts 152 bird species. Sea turtles nest here. The beaches look exactly like they did centuries ago—completely untouched.
Tours include guided walks, pristine reef snorkeling, and fresh fish grilled by local fishermen right on the beach.
Pure natural beauty. No crowds. No development.
Beach Solitude Seekers → Isla Holbox
Picture this: No cars. Not a single one.
Just golf carts and scooters putting along sandy streets. Miles of white sandy beaches stretching in every direction.
Enjoy the top-rated Holbox boat tours
And here’s the kicker—from June to September, you can go swimming with whale sharks. These gentle giants migrate through, and ethical tour operators will get you in the water with them.
The journey takes 2.5 hours from Cancun. But that’s exactly what keeps it special. Read more about Holbox Island.
Exclusive Experience → Isla Blanca
Most tourists have never heard of this place.
And that’s perfect.
Isla Blanca sits along the coast of Cancun, tucked between a calm lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. Kitesurfers discovered it years ago. Everyone else? Still sleeping on it.
You’ll have the beach practically to yourself. No ferry needed—it’s connected by road.
Trust me on this one.
Budget & Convenience → Cancun Hotel Zone
Okay, real talk: Cancun’s Hotel Zone isn’t technically an island.
It’s a narrow barrier peninsula between the sea and Nichupté Lagoon. But it offers easy beach access if you just want sand and surf without the ferry hassle.
Public beaches. Tons of restaurants. Water sports everywhere.
Sometimes simple is good.
Best Time to Visit Islands Near Cancun
Weather & Season Guide
December through April in the state of Quintana Roo? Chef’s kiss.
Sunny skies. Temperatures hovering between 75-85°F. This is what you came for.
May through November brings afternoon showers. Fewer crowds. And here’s the beautiful part—20-40% savings on everything.
Hurricane Season Impact (June-November)
September and October are the peak months.
But before you panic—modern forecasting gives you plenty of warning. Direct hits are actually pretty rare.
Just grab travel insurance. Stay flexible with your bookings. You’ll be fine.
Best Months for Each Island
Isla Mujeres: January through March is absolute perfection.
Cozumel: April through June for the clearest diving conditions.
Holbox: Summer is whale shark season. That’s when you want to be there.
Punta Sur: Winter brings migrating birds. Visit Punta then if you’re into wildlife photography.
Complete Guide: 6 Islands Near Cancun Mexico
1. Isla Mujeres: Most Popular Day Trip from Cancun
Why Visit Isla Mujeres
“Isla Mujeres” translates to “Island of Women.”
The name comes from ancient worship sites dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel. Local legend says Spanish explorers found female-shaped statues all over the island.
At just 4 miles long, you can discover Isla Mujeres in a single day. It’s this perfect mix of tradition and modernity—where locals and tourists hang out together naturally.
Read more about How to Get Around Isla Mujeres?
No pretense. Just good vibes.
Getting to Isla Mujeres
The ferry from Puerto Juarez: Boats leave every 30 minutes from 5 AM to 11:30 PM.
What it costs: Around $28 round-trip for adults, $21 for kids ages 6-11. Little ones under 5 ride free.
Book through Ultramar online and you’ll save 10-15%.
How long: That short ferry ride takes just 15-20 minutes. You could literally make multiple trips to Isla during your vacation.
Best Beaches & Activities
Playa Norte is one of the best islands beaches in Mexico.
Soft sand that feels like powder. Shallow, calm water perfect for families. Sunsets that’ll make you forget to check your phone.
Snorkeling? Hit the underwater sculpture museum (MUSA).
Over 500 life-sized sculptures sitting on the ocean floor. They’ve created this incredible artificial coral reef ecosystem. It’s bizarre and beautiful at the same time.
Golf cart rentals run about $40-60 per day.
You can drive around the island in an hour, hitting southern cliffs and hidden beach coves. It’s the best way to explore the island without breaking a sweat.
Where to Stay
Hostels start at $25-40 per night if you’re on a tight budget.
Mid-range hotels on the island run $80-150. They’ve got way more character than the big Cancun resorts.
Stay downtown. Everything’s walking distance—restaurants, shops, the ferry terminal, bars.
Budget Guide: Daily Costs
Budget travelers: $60-80 covers your ferry, golf cart rental, lunch, and drinks.
Mid-range: Bump it to $100-120. You’ll add nicer meals, maybe a snorkeling tour, some extra activities.
2. Cozumel: Premier Diving Destination in the Mexican Caribbean
Why Visit Cozumel
World-class diving put Cozumel on the map.
But there’s more here than just reef access. San Miguel (the main town) has real culture beyond the cruise ships. You’ll find Mayan ruins. Quiet beaches of Isla beauty. Authentic local character.
This isn’t just a diving destination. It’s a legitimate beautiful island with soul.
Getting to Cozumel from Cancun
Here’s the route: First, get yourself to Playa del Carmen.
That’s 45 minutes by bus from Cancun Airport or the Hotel Zone. Then you catch the ferry to Cozumel—either Ultramar or Winjet runs this route. Near Playa del Carmen’s ferry pier, boats leave constantly.
Current prices: Around $32 round-trip for adults, $24 for kids.
Departures every 1-2 hours from 7 AM to 10 PM.
Pro tip: Base yourself in Playa del Carmen if you’ve got time. You can easily day trip to Cozumel, Tulum, and cenotes all from there. It’s the perfect Riviera Maya hub.
Best Beaches & Dive Sites
Palancar Reef is legendary.
Dramatic coral formations. Natural swim-throughs. Fish everywhere. This slice of paradise has depths ranging from 40-80 feet.
Paradise Beach has full amenities and a beach club setup. Gets crowded when cruise ships dock, though.
San Francisco Beach gives you the same beauty with half the people.
Dive operators charge $80-120 for two-tank dives. Some luxury resorts bundle dive packages with accommodation.
Budget Guide: Daily Costs
Expect to spend $80-100 minimum. That covers meals, reef entry, and basic activities.
Mid-range budget? More like $120-150. You’ll add car rental, hit multiple dive sites, maybe upgrade your lunch spot.
3. Isla Holbox: Off-the-Grid Paradise
Why Visit Holbox
Cars literally don’t exist on Holbox.
Not a single one.
Streets are unpaved sand. Life moves at golf cart speed. This is where you come to genuinely disconnect and soak in natural beauty everywhere you look.
Your stress will melt away. I promise.
Getting to Isla Holbox from Cancun
The journey goes like this:
Bus or shuttle to Chiquilá (2-2.5 hours, costs $15-20). Then hop the ferry (20-25 minutes, $10).
Total trip: About 3 hours and $25-30 one-way.
Transportation from Cancun is straightforward—ADO buses run regularly to Chiquilá. They’re comfortable and reliable.
Best Beaches & Natural Beauty
The beaches stretch forever.
The north shore has shallow water that goes on seemingly forever. You can wade out and still touch bottom.
Bioluminescence tours (July-September): You kayak through water that literally glows in the dark. The plankton light up with every paddle stroke.
It’s magical. No other word for it.
Whale shark season (June-September): Swimming with these gentle giants costs $100-140.
Ethical operators follow strict guidelines. These are filter-feeders the size of school buses. And you get to swim right next to them.
How to Swim With Whale Sharks In Holbox
Car-free living: Rent golf carts and scooters for $50-70 daily. Bikes are $10-15.
The absence of cars makes everything quieter. Cleaner. More peaceful.
Budget Guide: Daily Costs
Budget: $70-90 daily for basic accommodation, meals, and getting around.
Mid-range: $110-140 adds better hotels, bioluminescence tours, or whale shark experiences.
4. Isla Contoy: Protected National Park
Why Visit Contoy Island
Contoy ranks among Mexico’s most important wildlife sanctuaries.
Nobody lives here. It’s completely uninhabited.
The island limits access to just 200 visitors per day. This protects the natural reserve and keeps the ecosystem pristine.
Getting to Isla Contoy
Tour-only access. You can’t just show up.
Everyone joins authorized 8-10 hour tours that leave from Isla Mujeres or Cancun.
Current prices: Tours run $90-120. That includes boat transport, park fees, snorkeling gear, guided nature walks, and lunch cooked fresh by a local fisherman.
Book ahead. These tours sell out days in advance, especially December through March.
Natural Beauty & Wildlife
152 bird species nest on Contoy.
Multiple sea turtle species use these beaches for nesting. The shores remain completely natural—zero development anywhere.
Snorkeling at Ixlaché Reef shows you what coral reef systems looked like before humans touched them.
Tours typically start early—around 9 AM. Guides walk you through the island’s ecology. Fresh seafood gets grilled right on the beach for lunch.
Expect a full, active day completely focused on nature.
5. Isla Blanca: Cancun’s Hidden Beach Paradise
Why Visit Isla Blanca
Close to Cancun but feeling remarkably remote.
This narrow peninsula separates the calm lagoon from Caribbean Sea waves. One side is mirror-flat. The other has rolling surf.
Kitesurfers figured this place out years ago. Everyone else is still clueless.
Getting to Isla Blanca
Drive 45 minutes north of the Hotel Zone. That’s it.
No ferry needed. It’s connected by road.
Entrance fee: Just $5-10 per person.
Best time to visit: November through March for consistent kitesurfing winds.
Beach Activities & Water Sports
Kitesurfing paradise.
Consistent winds. Shallow areas perfect for learning. Lessons run $80-150 and instructors here are top-notch.
The lagoon side has waist-deep water extending for hundreds of meters. Perfect for kids. Great for paddleboarding.
Beach clubs are rustic and simple. Fresh seafood. Cold drinks. Nothing fancy.
Even during peak season, you’ll find your own stretch of beach easily.
Budget Guide: Daily Costs
$50-80 covers entrance, food, drinks, and lounging around.
Add kitesurfing? You’re looking at $120-160 total.
It’s one of the most affordable beach destinations near Cancun.
6. Cancun Hotel Zone: Beach Access Without Ferries
Why Consider the Hotel Zone
Let’s be honest: The Hotel Zone isn’t an island.
It’s a narrow barrier peninsula between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupté Lagoon. But it functions like one—beach access on one side, calm waters on the other.
For pure convenience over authentic island vibes, it works.
Beach Access Guide
Playa Delfines is the most popular public beach.
Free parking. Facilities. That iconic “Cancun” sign everyone takes photos with.
Best beaches: Playa Delfines for waves and surfing. Playa Tortugas for calm water. Playa Forum near all the nightlife and restaurants.
Activities: Everything’s available. Jet skis. Parasailing. Snorkeling tours. Fishing charters.
When Hotel Zone Makes Sense
Limited time in Cancun? Families needing predictable services?
The Hotel Zone delivers convenience and reliability. You get beautiful beaches without authentic local vibes.
That’s the trade-off. Sometimes it’s worth it.
Island Hopping Itineraries from Cancun
3-Day Riviera Maya Island Experience
Day 1: Morning ferry to Isla Mujeres. Explore the island by golf cart. Lunch downtown. Afternoon at Playa Norte.
Day 2: Early start to Cozumel. Diving or snorkeling all morning. Explore San Miguel town in the afternoon.
Day 3: Full-day Isla Contoy tour. Experience pristine nature and wildlife.
This hits three completely different vibes. Beach relaxation. Underwater adventure. Nature immersion.
Weekend Quick Trip: Best Two-Island Combo
Saturday: Isla Mujeres for classic Caribbean vibes.
Sunday: Cozumel for diving. Or Isla Blanca for peaceful solitude.
Two days. Two totally different experiences.
Single Day: Which Island to Choose?
Limited to just one day trip?
Isla Mujeres wins for most visitors. It’s the nearest. Most accessible. Offers the most diverse activities. Delivers authentic experiences.
Serious divers might pick Cozumel instead. Nature lovers could choose Contoy.
The best island depends on what you’re chasing.
Practical Ferry & Booking Information
How to Book Ferry Tickets
Online: Ultramar’s website typically saves you 10-15%. Digital tickets hit your email immediately.
Walk-up purchases: Fine during off-season. Peak season? Book ahead or risk missing your preferred time.
Groups: 10+ people get 15-25% discounts on most routes.
Ferry Company Comparison
Ultramar dominates most routes. Modern boats. Frequent departures. Generally your safest bet.
Winjet competes on the Playa del Carmen to Cozumel run. Similar prices. Both maintain solid safety records.
Money-Saving Ferry Tips
Buy round-trip tickets immediately. Don’t wait.
Travel shoulder season (May-June or October-November). Prices drop significantly.
Book online for automatic discounts. Skip street vendors selling “special deals”—they’re usually scams.
Peak Season Booking Strategy
Book 3-5 days ahead during December through April.
Traveling Christmas, New Year’s, or Easter week? Book weeks in advance. Maybe even a month.
Morning departures and evening returns fill up fastest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many islands can you visit from Cancun?
Five real islands: Isla Mujeres (closest), Cozumel (world-class diving), Holbox (off-grid escape), Isla Contoy (protected nature reserve), and Isla Blanca (hidden gem).
Plus Cancun’s Hotel Zone if you want beach access without island travel.
You could hit them all in a week-long Mexican vacation.
What is the closest island to Cancun?
Isla Mujeres. Just 8 kilometers offshore.
The ferry from Puerto Juarez takes 15-20 minutes. That short ferry ride makes it perfect for spontaneous day trips.
How much does the ferry to Isla Mujeres cost in 2025?
Around $28 round-trip for adults. $21 for kids ages 6-11. Under 5 rides free.
Book online through Ultramar and save 10-15% compared to buying tickets at the dock.
Can you do Isla Mujeres as a day trip from Cancun?
Absolutely.
Morning ferries start at 5 AM (though 9-10 AM is more reasonable). Spend 6-8 hours exploring. Return on evening ferries that run until 11:30 PM.
Here’s my advice: Stay overnight if you can. The island transforms after the day-trippers leave. You get to see Isla in a completely different light.
How far is Cozumel from Cancun?
About 70 kilometers south.
No direct ferry exists. You go to Playa del Carmen first (45 minutes by bus from Cancun Airport). Then catch the ferry to Cozumel (another 45 minutes).
Total travel time: 1.5-2 hours each way.
Is Holbox worth the long trip from Cancun?
For authentic, laid-back Caribbean islands experiences? Absolutely.
The 2.5-3 hour journey naturally filters out casual tourists. That’s exactly what keeps Holbox special.
Plan at least two nights. The travel time isn’t worth it for just one day.
During whale shark season (June-September)? Definitely make the trip.
What’s better: Isla Mujeres or Cozumel?
Depends what you’re after.
Isla Mujeres wins for: Accessibility. Budget travel. First-timers. Manageable size.
Cozumel wins for: Serious diving. More developed infrastructure. Boutique resorts. Longer stays.
Both are excellent Caribbean islands. Just different vibes.
Which island is best for families with kids?
Isla Mujeres. Hands down.
The short ferry ride keeps kids from getting antsy. Playa Norte has shallow, calm water—super safe for little ones.
Golf carts make transportation fun. Kids love driving around the island (with you steering, obviously).
The size is manageable. Less walking. Less exhaustion.
Family-friendly restaurants serve familiar foods alongside authentic Mexican options.
What’s the cheapest island to visit from Cancun?
Isla Blanca costs the least. No ferry fees. Just small $5-10 entrance charges.
Isla Mujeres comes close. Affordable ferries. Budget-friendly food everywhere.
Isla Contoy costs most at $90-120 for mandatory tours. But the experience justifies every dollar.
Are the ferries safe and reliable?
Yes. Very safe.
Major operators like Ultramar maintain excellent safety records. Modern boats meet international standards.
Captains actively monitor weather. They cancel departures during sketchy conditions.
Millions of passengers ride these routes annually. Incidents are extremely rare.
Final Recommendations: Your Perfect Island Match
Our #1 Pick for Most Visitors
Isla Mujeres earns top recommendation. Here’s why:
It perfectly balances accessibility, affordability, activities, and authentic charm.
That 15-minute ferry from Puerto Juarez? Even nervous travelers feel comfortable making the trip. You’re barely on the water before you’re already getting off.
The island offers enough to do without overwhelming you. Beautiful beaches like Playa Norte. Snorkeling at MUSA and the coral reef. Golf cart adventures around the island. Fresh seafood everywhere.
Whether you’ve got one day or several nights, Isla Mujeres delivers.
Get to Isla Mujeres early. Explore thoroughly. You’ll understand why it remains the most popular choice for people visiting Cancun.
The turquoise waters alone are worth the trip. Everything else is just bonus.
Quick Note: Prices and ferry schedules change with seasons. Always verify current info directly with Ultramar, Winjet competes or ferry operators before booking. Weather can affect departures too.
Now stop reading and go book that ferry ticket. The Caribbean Sea is waiting.