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Explore the islands from Playa del Carmen

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EXPLORE THE ISLANDS FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Discover the magic of the islands

Plan your visit to discover all the magic of these Caribbean paradises while making sure to respect and preserve their natural beauty for future generations.

Cozumel Island: paradise for diving and snorkelling

The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, which makes it an ideal destination for fans of diving and snorkelling. Explore the Cozumel Reefs National Park, home to colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life.

How to get to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen?

Getting to the island from Playa del Carmen is quick and easy. You can take a ferry from the port in Playa del Carmen, with frequent departures throughout the day. The trip takes around 45 minutes and provides spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.

Main attractions in Cozumel

Among the best are the Chankanaab Park, where you can swim with dolphins and explore a botanical garden, and the Cozumel Island Museum, which presents a captivating vision of local history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to visit El Cielo, a beach famous for its turquoise waters and starfish.

Diving and snorkelling experiences in Cozumel

Discover sites like Palancar and Santa Rosa Wall that create unique experiences. Here you can swim with sea turtles, rays and a variety of tropical fish. If you’re a beginner, there are a lot of diving schools that have courses and guided excursions for all levels.

The island of tranquility and unspoiled nature

Holbox is a relaxing refuge in the heart of nature, ideal for travelers seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle. This island is part of the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve and is famous for its virgin beaches and relaxed ambience.

What to do in Holbox Island?

Guests can enjoy activities such as sighting flamingos in Punta Cocos, bike rides around the island or relaxing in hammocks over the water. Don’t miss the chance to see the amazing natural wonder of bioluminescence on the dark nights.

Holbox cuisine

This will be a delight for all the senses. Try fresh seafood such as octopus ceviche and shrimp tacos. Don’t miss the lobster pizza, a local specialty that combines unique flavours. To end your stay, enjoy a home-made ice cream in one of the island’s ice cream parlors.

Isla Mujeres: culture and natural beauty

This destination combines the rich Mexican culture with the natural wealth of the Caribbean. This small island is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing.

Visit Isla Mujeres in one day

Day trips to Isla Mujeres are a popular option for guests staying in Playa del Carmen. You can take a ferry from Cancun to the island in around 20 minutes. From there you can tour the island and discover its charms at your own pace.

a group of people walking on a beach with a yellow canoe

Essential activities

Don’t miss the chance to visit Playa Norte, considered one of the best beaches in the world. You can also explore Garrafón Park, where you can snorkel, kayak and zipline. If you are looking for a more cultural experience, discover the Temple of Ixzel, dedicated to the Mayan goddess of productivity.

Tips for exploring Isla Mujeres

To enjoy your visit to the island to the full, bring sunscreen, a hat and water to stay hydrated. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine such as fish tacos and fresh ceviche.

Isla Contoy: a protected natural refuge

This small island to the north of Isla Mujeres is a sanctuary for seabirds and has enchanting scenery with mangrove forests and pristine beaches.

Isla Contoy flora and fauna

There is also a home for more than 150 species of birds, including frigate birds, pelicans and cormorants. The island also has rich flora, such as mangrove forests and palm trees, which provide an ideal habitat for wildlife. During your visit, you can see sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish in the reef.

How to get to Isla Contoy?

To get here, you must take an organized tour from Cancun or Isla Mujeres, as access is restricted to protect the natural environment. Tours usually include boat transport, expert guides and time to explore the island.

Tips for planning a tour of the islands

Be sure to research the transport and activity options available on each island, and consider booking in advance to guarantee your place on the most popular tours.

What to take on your excursion?

To enjoy your excursion to the full, take the essentials: sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a swimsuit. Don't forget a towel, a change of clothes and a camera to capture the best moments. Also take water and snacks with you to stay hydrated and full of energy during the day.

a woman in a garment underwater with a boat in the background

Conservation and sustainability rules

Don’t leave rubbish and respect the local flora and fauna. Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect coral reefs and avoid touching or feeding the animals. Help preserve these natural treasures for future generations.

Onze bestemmingen in Playa del Carmen

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Door Sara García

Journalist and content writer. Graduated from Carlos III University of Madrid, she has worked on coding for print media and web content. Her passion is writing and sharing what the world experiences as she travels through life.