The Most Popular Islands Near Cancun

The beaches here are not overwhelmed by large resorts, offering a more serene beach day experience. The Most Popular Islands near Cancun.

Along the Mexican Caribbean coast, there’s no shortage of stunning vacation destinations, but only a few paradisiacal islands like Isla Mujeres and Cozumel stand out for their unique day-trip appeal.

In just the first three months of 2024, these islands welcomed over 2.5 million tourists, highlighting their growing popularity. Here’s why these two islands near Cancún are drawing more visitors.

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Easy Access and Quick Journeys

One of the greatest advantages of Isla Mujeres and Cozumel is their accessibility from major tourist hubs like Cancún and Playa del Carmen.

Two different ferry companies operate routes to these islands, making them easily reachable for a spontaneous day trip.

From Cancún, Ultramar ferries depart from three locations, including two in the Hotel Zone, ensuring convenient access for most tourists.

The travel time to these islands is another plus. With services like Xcaret Sailing and Ultramar operating from early morning until late evening, trips to Isla Mujeres take between 20 to 30 minutes, and reaching Cozumel from Playa del Carmen takes about 45 minutes.

This makes both islands perfect for a quick getaway, without needing to invest more than a day.

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Affordable Travel Options

While ferry prices vary, they remain reasonably affordable for most travelers.

A round-trip ferry ride with Ultramar from Cancún to Isla Mujeres costs around $32 for adults and $24 for children.

From Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, prices range between $34 and $27.

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The Most Popular Islands near Cancun

Unique Activities and Attractions

Both Isla Mujeres and Cozumel boast unique attractions that cater to adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

They offer exceptional snorkeling opportunities thanks to their proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef system in the world.

Isla Mujeres is also home to the MUSA, an underwater museum, and both islands feature small Mayan ruins that add a historical touch to the visit.

Charming Towns and Fewer Tourists

If you’re looking to escape the crowded resorts of the mainland, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the charm of these islands.

Both Isla Mujeres and Cozumel feature quaint towns with locally-run restaurants, cozy bars, and shops selling handmade crafts.

These islands provide a more relaxed and authentic experience compared to the bustling scenes of Cancún and Playa del Carmen.

Plus, their towns are highly walkable and conveniently close to the ferry ports.

Lesser Sargassum

A lesser-known fact that might make day trips to Isla Mujeres and Cozumel even more appealing is the lower presence of sargassum.

This seaweed can be unsightly and smelly as it decomposes on the beaches, but due to the geographic positioning of the islands, they experience less sargassum, especially during the spring and summer months when it peaks.

The Most Popular Islands near Cancun

Beautiful Beaches

Lastly, both Isla Mujeres and Cozumel boast stunning beaches known for their soft white sand and clear turquoise waters.

Unlike other parts of the Mexican Caribbean, the beaches here are not overwhelmed by large resorts, offering a more serene beach day experience.

With easy access, affordable travel, unique attractions, charming local towns, lesser sargassum, and beautiful beaches, it’s clear why Isla Mujeres and Cozumel are becoming favorites for those looking to explore beyond Cancún during their Mexican Caribbean vacation.

R. The Most Popular Islands near Cancun