Related Items:27 Jun 2019
Sometimes the very best tours are the ones we create for ourselves. On Isla Mujeres, all you need is a golf cart! Golf carts are a top form of transportation around this tiny Caribbean island, and visitors can easily rent them out to explore the culture, cuisine, and beauty packed into the beach-and-cliff coastline. So… how’s it done?
How to get your own golf cart in Isla Mujeres
As you exit the ferry terminal and step onto the main avenue of downtown Isla Mujeres, you’ll immediately find golf cart rental establishments just across the street (and maybe a few vendors approaching you personally offering the service). Most places will charge roughly $650 – $700 pesos for the day (between 9am and 5pm). Many places also have hourly rental rates available, but a full-day rental allows you to explore the island with more flexibility and less stress, making as many stops as you like along the way to check out Caribbean Sea views or grab a drink at one of the island’s beach bars. To rent a golf cart on Isla Mujeres, all you need is a valid driver’s license. Typically the rental shop will give you a form to fill out; they’ll hold on to your license as a deposit and the form will serve as your “Isla license” for the day.
The best places to go on your golf cart adventure
While top Isla Mujeres locations like North Beach and Avenida Hidalgo are easily walkable from the ferry, a golf cart rental allows you to experience lesser-known but equally enchanting locales. The west coast of the island faces out toward the mainland, with Cancun’s hazy resort skyline visible on the horizon above the cyan-and-turquoise stripes of the ocean. The calmer western road of Isla Mujeres first passes some restaurants and small hotels before entering the central town, where most of the island locals live. Ride by the town’s colorful houses, roadside coconut stands, and beer shops before reaching a roundabout, where you can veer right to discover a hidden treasure: the west coast road between the lagoon and the ocean. This quiet road is lined in some of the most beautiful vacation homes on Isla Mujeres, as well as a few nice hotels and restaurants, and the famous turtle farm. If you’re in the mood for a break or maybe some lunch, stop at Zama Beach Club, an oceanfront restaurant where you can get sucked in and hang out on the white sand beach, or just have a quick drink then keep exploring – it doesn’t much matter because you’re on “island time”. Once the road ends, turn back and drive back up the road, then take the right-hand road when you reach the roundabout.
The Cliffs of Punta Sur
Just past the lookout point is the entrance to Punta Sur (South Point, in English), a park at the very southern tip of the island, surrounded by cliffs and dangerously beautiful turquoise water on three sides. A small booth at the entrance requires $30 pesos per person for access. Get your bracelets and enter the park, then spend some time taking pictures from atop the cliffs and around Templo Ixchel, a real Maya temple at the edge of the park. Punta Sur is also the easternmost point in Mexico, and on each New Year’s Eve, it’s a popular place for people to gather and be the first to see the first sunrise of the new year.
What to See on Isla Mujeres’ East Coast
The wilder east coast feels like another world from the rest of Isla Mujeres, with vacation homes to one side and small cliffs on the other. The crashing waves and craggy rocks are a sight not often seen in southeastern Mexico. As you drive north along this side of the island, you might pass a row of makeshift stands selling shell handicrafts and jewelry – the perfect pit stop. A little further north, you’ll come across the red path of a coastal walkway, complete with benches for resting and idyllic spots for photos. To finish your island golf cart tour, just continue north, back through the central town then into the main downtown area. By late afternoon, you’ll have seen most of the island for $700 pesos.
How to rent a golf cart easily by remembering these things
Most golf cart rentals on Isla Mujeres charge around $700 pesos for a full day, and some even offer hourly and half-day rates. All you need is your driver’s license and form of payment (cash or credit card). I also recommend applying sunscreen to your arms and legs; even though all golf carts will have a roof, you might (like me) fall victim to a left leg sunburn from driving on one side of the island for too long. Want to experience the island’s restaurant scene while you’re exploring? Here’s our list of our favorite places to eat on Isla Mujeres.
FAQs
How long does it take to get around Isla Mujeres in golf cart? ›
It takes about two hours to drive completely around Isla Mujeres in a golf cart. The island is only about 5 miles long and 0.5 miles wide, so it's not very big. That means you can get from one side of the island to the other relatively quickly.
Can you drive a golf cart around Isla Mujeres? ›On Isla Mujeres, all you need is a golf cart! Golf carts are a top form of transportation around this tiny Caribbean island, and visitors can easily rent them out to explore the culture, cuisine, and beauty packed into the beach-and-cliff coastline. So… how's it done?
Where is the best part of Isla Mujeres? ›Playa Norte is super popular among tourists as it hosts some of the best restaurants, bars, and hotels in Isla Mujeres. And let's not forget about the white sand beaches with turquoise waters that will make you feel as if you're in paradise!
How do people get around on Isla Mujeres? ›Moving around Isla Mujeres is very easy. You can either rent a golf cart or a bike and have a nice tour around the island.
What is the rainiest month in Isla Mujeres? ›May through September are the rainiest months with the highest humidity, most visitors need A/C at night.
How much do you tip in Isla Mujeres? ›It is customary to leave a tip equal to 15 to 20% of the total bill. If a service charge is included, you may choose to tip extra for great service. Remember, foreign coins are worthless in Mexico, tip only with bills or mexican coins.
Can you drink on golf cart Isla Mujeres? ›There is zero alcohol tolerance for drivers, and there must be no open alcohol containers on the Golf Carts (even passengers).
Can you use US dollars on Isla Mujeres? ›The Mexican peso is the standard currency used in Mexico. Everyone in Cancun and on Isla will take US dollars or Mexico pesos.
Can you drink on the street in Isla Mujeres? ›Yes, it is technically illegal.
What cartel runs Isla Mujeres? ›"El Cártel de Cancún," which operates as a branch of the Sinaloa Cartel, is mostly responsible for the area of Benito Juarez and Isla Mujeres.
Can I walk around Isla Mujeres? ›
Walking is the best option if you are downtown or by the beach. Isla Mujeres has 2 main spots that will make you fall in love with the island. The north area and the south point. On the south part of the island, you can see panoramic views that will become great pictures.
Is it safe to walk around Isla Mujeres? ›Isla Mujeres is one of the safest destinations in Mexico, from my experience. It teems with friendly locals, well-lit streets in the Playa Norte area, and tourist police. That said, it's always wise to revisit the DOS' website before you travel in case their safety recommendations change.
Which side of Isla Mujeres is better? ›If you prefer a more quiet and tranquil atmosphere, then I would recommend staying at a hotel on the western side of the island. This area tends to be less crowded than Playa Norte and still offers nice Isla Mujeres beaches with stunning views and calm waters.
How long should you stay in Isla Mujeres? ›I would suggest one week max on Isla and then another week somewhere on the mainland where you can " tour, snorkel, and hike". If you don't want to be in Cancun or Playa del Carmen (although PDC is a great location to do day trips from, so I wouldn't discount it) you can maybe stay in the Akumal area or Puerto Morelos.
What to do if it rains in Isla Mujeres? ›- Women's Beading Cooperative. 606. Points of Interest & Landmarks. ...
- Capilla de Guadalupe. 131. Churches & Cathedrals. ...
- Iglesia de Concepcion Immaculada. 162. ...
- Mayan Spa Isla Mujeres. 133. ...
- Maha Shanti School of Yoga. 168. ...
- Rock Bar. 121. ...
- Miile Spa at Excellence Playa Mujeres. Spas. ...
- Pau Pao Desing. Speciality & Gift Shops.
Known for beautiful white sand beaches, calm crystal clear turquoise waters and the friendliest locals in the Mexican Caribbean. Isla's diversity, from the fisherman, artists and musicians to divers, chefs and ex-pats, make up a community unlike any other.
Is it worth to stay in Isla Mujeres? ›Located off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is well-known for its beauty. Palm trees, white sand beaches, rocky coastlines, and a hoard of flora, fauna, and nature, this island paradise is absolutely worth a visit if you're in Mexico's Riviera Maya.
Is $5 a good tip in Mexico? ›They depend upon those tips to live. If you're on a tour with a lot of people (20-100 people), each person should leave a tip of at least $5 U.S. (90 pesos). If you're on a tour with very few people (e.g., four people in your family), the group should leave a tip that is equivalent to 15-20% of the cost of the tour.
Is 50 pesos a good tip? ›Is 50 Pesos a Good Tip? In Mexico, a good rule of thumb for tips is to leave 10-15% of the bill. 50 pesos would be a standard tip for a bill that was around 500 pesos. For example, if you go out for dinner and get drinks, you should expect to spend around 400 MXN.
Is $100 a good tip in Mexico? ›It's up to you how much you tip, but the recommended amount in Mexico is between 10% – 20% (15% is a good standard in tourist areas) of the bill or ticket price.
Can I use my debit card in Isla Mujeres? ›
Isla restaurants, taxis and most stores operate on a cash-only basis. The best way to handle this, is to convert USD to pesos. You can either exchange USD to pesos at a money exchange downtown (you may need your passport), or get pesos by using your debit card at an ATM.
Is the water clear in Isla Mujeres? ›Nothing compares to the crystal clear waters and gentle waves that contrast perfectly with the white sand of the beaches of Isla Mujeres.
Is Isla Mujeres a party scene? ›Isla Mujeres is known for being a magical town of calm and tranquility, but at night it enjoys a fabulous nightlife. Those who enjoy partying and having fun will be amazed to discover the variety of bars and clubs they can visit during their visit.
Is it better to buy pesos or dollars? ›The short answer is use pesos! Most businesses will take U.S. dollars, but it's better to convert your currency to pesos. You'll get better deals and it is the currency of Mexico. Many people get pesos from their bank at home before travel.
How many pesos is $50 US dollars? ›The best currency to bring to Mexico is a mix of pesos and US dollars. Use the dollars to pay for tours, entrance fees, accommodation, and travel. For everything else use pesos.
Are there snakes in Isla Mujeres? ›In the mangroves and jungles of Isla Mujeres you can find up to 120 different species of terrestrial and aquatic animals. During your visit to the region you will be able to observe different birds, such as: hawks, hummingbirds, herons, pelicans, etc. & different reptiles: turtles, iguanas, frogs, snakes, lizards, etc.
Are there mosquitoes in Isla Mujeres? ›In November, we walked from our hotel at the Excellence Playa Mujeres to the Puerto Juarez ferry and were eaten alive by mosquitos!
Is there cell phone service on Isla Mujeres? ›Most US cell phones will work in Isla – you should call your provider before you go to Mexico and tell them you will be in the Cancun Mexico area (some providers offer temporary plans for travelers) and you want to make AND receive calls while there. This can be expensive.
What does Isla Mujeres mean in English? ›Isla means “island,” and mujeres means “women.” So the title given the land was “Island of Women.” It has since been shortened to simply, “Isla Mujeres.” The temple of the goddess Ixchel was situated on the south side of the island and was used as a lighthouse for ships.
Are there crocodiles in Isla Mujeres? ›
Quintana Roo is a state conducive to the life of crocodiles, throughout its geography we find them in different lagoons that are distributed throughout the state, from Holbox to Chetumal passing through Cancun, Isla Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, the coastal area from Felipe Carrillo Puerto to ...
What is the drinking age in Isla Mujeres? ›The minimum legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old. Mexico requires that young adults show photo identification, either a passport or driver's license, as proof of age when buying alcohol.
How do you spend a day on Isla Mujeres? ›Your Isla Mujeres day trip can include open bar, buffet lunch in a private beach club and adventures like snorkeling, shopping in the colorful town center and a visit to the famous beach at Playa Norte, named one of the best beaches in Mexico by Trip Advisor!
Can you swim with turtles in Isla Mujeres? ›Tortugranja is a turtle sanctuary in Isla Mujeres, a kind of small aquarium, and it is just 30 minutes away from Cancun. And although you won't be able to snorkel with turtles you'll admire and learn from them.
Are credit cards accepted in Isla Mujeres? ›Credit cards: Most shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards. Better rely on Mexican cash. There are banks and ATMs on the island.
Does it rain all day in Isla Mujeres? ›The chance of wet days in Isla Mujeres varies significantly throughout the year. The wetter season lasts 5.3 months, from May 27 to November 4, with a greater than 32% chance of a given day being a wet day.
Can you swim on the east side of Isla Mujeres? ›The more secluded beaches, such as Playa Paraiso, Playa Lancheros and Playa Indios are located on the west side of Isla Mujeres facing Cancún, mid-island near Hacienda Mundaca. The rest of the beaches on the east side are rocky and dangerous for swimming because of the strong currents.
What is the main town on Isla Mujeres? ›...
Towns and villages.
| Name | Population (2010 Census) |
|---|---|
| Punta Sam | 30 |
| Total municipality | 16,203 |
November – December
The autumn-winter months are considered by many to be the best times to visit Isla Mujeres. The hurricane season has passed by this time and the humidity is low.
In 2022, one of the worst years for sargassum ever, Isla Mujeres remained mostly free of the smelly brown seaweed from about July to at least September. In fact, Isla Mujeres had some of the lowest levels of sargassum in the Mexican Caribbean in 2022.
Can you drink ice in Isla Mujeres? ›
Yes, Isla Mujeres has some of the safest water treatment systems in Mexico. It is connected to the Cancun Hotel Zone. Also, ALL of the local establishments outsource their ice to the two main ice factories here on the island which provide filtered ice. So, you can drink without concern.
How much does it cost to rent a golf cart in Isla Mujeres? ›| Description | RETAIL walkin in no resevation |
|---|---|
| Per Hour: | $250 |
| Per half day 9 am to 5pm: | $850 |
| Per one 24 hours: | $1,200 |
| *** VIP Golf Cart & Beach Club day pass one day reservation ahead: | Deal available for make a reserve for one dar ESPECIAL feature for day trippers from Riviera And Cancún Hotels |
You purchase tickets for the Ferry at the Ferry Dock and the ferry takes you across the Bay of Mujeres to the island. During the day the Ferry runs about every 30 minutes and takes about 20 minutes to cross the bay.
Can you walk around Isla Mujeres? ›Walking is the best option if you are downtown or by the beach. Isla Mujeres has 2 main spots that will make you fall in love with the island. The north area and the south point. On the south part of the island, you can see panoramic views that will become great pictures.
How many miles long is Isla Mujeres? ›This beautiful island off Cancun also contains an abundance of culture and history worth exploring during your visit. Enchanting Isla Mujeres is only 5 miles long and about a half a mile wide, with bright-colored buildings lining the quaint village streets.
How long does it take to drive around Isla? ›A: The Ring Road which encircles the island is approximately 1,333 kilometers. Assuming that it takes around one hour to complete 100 kilometers, you can drive around Iceland in 12-13 hours.
Is the water safe to drink on Isla Mujeres? ›The water on Isla Mujeres is actually pumped in from Cancun hotel zone, which means that it is probably the cleanest water in Mexico, but it still not safe to drink. Bottle water is available at all mini-conveniences stores (found every couple of blocks). Ice and blended drinks are safe to drink.
Is Isla Mujeres worth going to? ›Yes, Isla Mujeres is worth it! It's a beautiful island with plenty to see and do. Isla Mujeres, in addition to its lovely beaches and clear blue waters, is also an official “pueblo magico”, or magical town.
How much does it cost to rent a bike in Isla Mujeres? ›Our little great island is only 5.5 miles long or 8 km. You can rent a bike for about 200 pesos per day from 9 am to 7 pm. Mopeds are about 300 pesos for the day 9 am to 5 pm. The golf carts rental price varies with the season.
How long does it take to drive the Golden Circle? ›While technically driving the golden circle is only 3 hours round-trip, the reality is a 6-8 hour day depending on how long you spend at each stop. If you want to experience some of Iceland's stunning landscapes but don't have a lot of time (for example, a one-day layover), the Golden Circle is a wonderful option.
How much is the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres? ›
The Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Cancun ferry dock to Isla Mujeres (Ultramar) is located in Puerto Juarez, just 10 minutes from downtown Cancun. The boat leaves every half hour from 5:00 am to 11:30 pm. Ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres costs 24 dollars round trip and crossing takes about 25 minutes.