Just 5 km (3 miles) off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres emerges as an unmissable destination for a day trip. This small island of 1,100 km² (400 sq mi) offers a charming atmosphere and diverse activities to enjoy.
Getting to Isla Mujeres is easy and comfortable thanks to the fast ferries that depart from various points in Cancun. The main, fastest, and most regular route is located at the port of Puerto Juarez. However, there are also other ferry options available in the hotel zone.
Once on the island, one of the best ways to explore it at your own pace is by renting a golf cart or a motorcycle. You can also opt for affordable bicycles and spend the day discovering every corner of Isla Mujeres.
The island’s beaches will welcome you with crystal-clear waters and incredible sand, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the Caribbean landscape.
A Glimpse into its History and Name
Isla Mujeres, which means “Island of Women” in Spanish, received this name from the Spanish in reference to the Mayan goddess Ixchel.
This deity represented the moon, fertility, reason, medicine, and happiness, and her temple was located at the southern end of the island. When Francisco Hernández de Córdoba discovered the island in 1517, he found female idols of Ixchel, which gave rise to its current name, although its original Mayan name was Ekab.
Although pirate legends link it to figures such as Jean Lafitte and Henry Morgan, who supposedly visited the island and even buried treasures there, today Isla Mujeres offers a peaceful and pleasant experience for visitors.