Isla Mujeres - Mexico

The view from the ferry

A small group of ladies and I took advantage of some free time today to slip off to Isla Mujeres (Island of the Woman). It seemed fitting, as it was womanhood that brought us to Mexico in the first place. We took a bus from our hotel to the ferry terminal, then boarded a ferry for the island. It was 35 pesos each direction.

(Tip: The bus cost 8.5 pesos to get pretty much anywhere. Be prepared for a wild ride - they drive everywhere FAST, but it is cheap and easy and bus stops are plentiful.)

On the ferry there were people selling transportation options for on the island, and a man busking with a guitar. We rented a golf cart to drive around and got a recommendation for a great place to eat.

(Tip: Find a local and ask where THEY like to eat.)

The first thing I noticed when we set foot on the island was the slower pace. It was immediately clear we were no longer in the hustle and bustle of the city of Cancun.

Being serenaded on the ferry

There are very few cars on Isla Mujeres -- most people get around the five mile long island using golf carts or mopeds. People stroll the streets. Dining was casual and affordable, but seriously amazing. We stopped at an open air cafe near the ferry dock and were immediately in heaven surrounded by plates piled high with local goodness. Drinks were also plentiful and delicious, and a mariachi band entertained us at our table.

We picked up our golf cart and started out across the island. None of us had ever driven a golf cart before, but after a quick demo by the friendly staff, we were on our way. Driving it was fun! After a quick look at a guidebook, we set off toward the ruins of a temple on the far end of the island.

Amazing food. Amazing.

Isla Mujeres is only half a mile wide and five miles long, so getting lost isn't too much of an issue, but there is plenty of diversity and lots to see. We were soon disappointed we had only set aside half a day for exploration. Accommodations are available on the island -- I am excited to spend more time there one day.

(Tip: Check out this map of the island -- though I must admit, it makes the island seem a lot busier than it feels!)

Along the road we stopped to check out an art gallery filled with hand-crafted jewelry and beautiful paintings called the Kimberley Art and Gem Gallery. It was a really lovely little oasis and a special surprise find.

(Tip: There are several art galleries on the island with beautiful pieces to browse or purchase. If you have time to do some scuba diving, there is a seriously amazing underwater museum to check out.)

This guy was selling conch shells on the side of the road.

The gallery was not our only stop, either. In addition to a visit to a very special temple, a slight detour brought us face-to-face with a local man selling conch sells of all sizes and colors. Wow, the photo does not do it justice! We were all amazed and couldn't drive away without partaking of his wares.

Our shopping did not end there. On our way back to the ferry we had a great time exploring the open air shops selling everything from trinkets to jewelry to clothes. None of us walked away empty handed.

(Tip: As the end of the day approaches, ferry lines get long! Be sure to leave yourself enough time if you are heading back to the mainland. Check and double check that you are in the right line for the type of ferry ticket you have purchased.)

Our visit to the island was really fantastic -- well worth the effort! I definitely recommend checking it out.

Isla Mujeres Vacations