ISLA MUJERES BEACHES

Tropical beaches lie all around Isla Mujeres with the most popular at the north end. The beaches start just next to the docks as you exit and walk west. These are public beaches however beach chairs and chez-lounges are the properties of hotels and restaurants.

Much of the coastline is rocky and void of white sand but from the docks west circling the islands west side to the north are beautiful beaches. The northern side is pretty rough and although there are sporadic beaches located on this side, they are un-swimable most days of the year.

Outside of the hotel zone going east much of the cost is either privately owned, secured for turtle egg hatching, too rocky or developed by a hotel/resort and the beaches are only accessible by admission via the hotel or by boat.

A popular attraction on the islands eastern side is Garrafon Park which provides numerous aqua activities.

Playa Norte

Playa Norte [now known as North Beach is also known as Playa Cocos and Nautibeach] is the most popular beach on the island and is easy to get to. You simply walk; drive west until you hit the beach. The coastline kind of curves which is why you go west to hit the north beach.

You can rent water toys, kayaks and snorkeling gear as well as lounge chairs and beach umbrellas. There are several palapa restaurant/bars that will also bring drinks and snacks to you on the beach. Just flag down a passing waiter.

You can also just walk the beach line starting at the north-westerly side after the docks and walk until you find a nice spot.

Playa Lancheros and Playa Indios, Playa Paraiso

Along the west coast heading east is the odd beach which has been turned into a mini tourista zone. Here you will find unbelievable fish barbeques with fishermen bringing in the catch while you are watching the BBQ. Many of the snorkel tours bring their tours to these beaches for their lunch and dinners as part of their tour program.

These beaches have open air palapa restaurants, gift shops, bathrooms, chairs, tables and umbrellas. You can also rent kayaks, canoes and even beach toys for children.