Come And See The 3 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit Near Cancun

Everyone knows that Cancun, aka The Jewel of the Mexican Caribbean, is the glittering vacation destination located on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. But did you know that while visiting Cancun, you can take a day trip to one of the 3 best Mexican islands located in the area? Each one is very different and special in its own way, rich with Mayan history and natural treasures, and all three are among the safest Caribbean islands.

1. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres, which loosely translates to “Island of Women”, is the small island located off the coast of Cancun and is just a 25-minute ferry ride away from the hotel zone or Playa Mujeres, where Excellence Coral Playa Mujeres, Excellence Playa Mujeres, Finest Playa Mujeres, and Beloved Playa Mujeres are all located.

It is believed that Spanish conquistadors named the island based on the many statues of the Mayan Goddess of Fertility, Ixchel, which they found upon their arrival. There is a Mayan archeological site open to the public at Punta Sur, the southernmost point of the island, which was used to worship the goddess Ixchel. (Fun fact: Punta Sur is the first place where the morning rays of the sun touch Mexican soil each day.) 

When you arrive on the island, the best thing to do is to rent a golf cart from one of the many providers located near the ferry dock. You’ll need it for about 2 hours. Then, head south and circle the entire island. Make a stop at the lookout on the ocean side of the road over Parque Garrafon (Garrafon Park), right before Punta Sur, for the best views of the entire island. 

After you circle the island, return your golf cart and stroll over to Playa Norte (North Beach), where the turquoise waters are clear and calm. Choose from one of the many beach clubs, order your preferred tropical cocktail, and settle in for an amazing beach day. For the perfect ending to the perfect day, time your ferry return for sunset and sit outside on top of the ferry.

2. Cozumel

Cozumel is a popular cruise ship port and is known as one of the best islands in the Caribbean. Its name comes from the Mayan word “cuzamil”, which means “Land of the Swallows”, referring to the bird species. Cozumel was considered by the Mayans to be a sacred place and another home of the goddess Ixchel, who was often depicted with swallows at her feet. 

Cozumel is located off the coast of the Riviera Maya and can be reached with a 45-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, which is only about a 30-minute drive from Excellence Riviera Cancun. Upon arrival on the island, you can exit the ferry dock and turn left to find a taxi stand where you can acquire a ride to your destination. 

So, where are you going? To the preset meeting place for your unbelievable tour to El Cielo, which means “The Sky” or “Heaven”. Once you visit this place, you will have no doubt where it got its name. El Cielo is a breathtaking area in the Caribbean Sea known for its beautiful white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, which are filled with stingrays, starfish, and other marine life.

Most tours to El Cielo include snorkeling, lunch, and cocktails. They often sell out quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead. When you return to downtown San Miguel de Cozumel, take a stroll or shop in the many stores located around the charming town square. You could even hang around for dinner. The last ferry leaves at about 8:00 pm on odd days and 9:00 pm on even days. You can check the Ultramar ferry website for exact times. 

3. Isla Contoy

Unlike Isla Mujeres and Cozumel, Isla Contoy is a totally uninhabited island located about 30 km north of Isla Mujeres. Its name is believed to come from either the Mayan words "kom" which means low and "To'oy" which means shelter, or the Mayan word "Pontó" which means pelican.

The island has been protected by the Mexican government since 1961 and was declared a National Park in 1998. It can only be reached by booking a guided tour and has a strict limit of 200 visitors per day. Because of this rule, visiting Isla Contoy is an exclusive experience. Not many people have visited the island.

Most tours to Isla Contoy, which is known as a sanctuary for marine birds, include a visit to Isla Mujeres, so you can kill two birds with one stone. (No pun intended) However, keep in mind that you wouldn’t have as much time on Isla Mujeres as if you planned a full day there. 

During your visit, you’ll spend about 4 hours on the island. Most tours will take you on an informative guided walk during which you will explore its natural beauty and learn about its unique ecosystem. Some tours include a visit to the Contoy Island Museum or a stroll through the mangroves. Then you’ll have some free time to lounge on the virgin beach. After lunch, it will be time to board your boat and head out to sea.

Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, and Isla Contoy are some of the best islands in Mexico. Each one is unique and well worth a visit. Which one will you travel to during your next stay?