Curator’s statement
Holbox is a small eco-friendly island with no cars and a super relaxed vibe. The Mexican island just two hours north of Cancun is a true paradise with calm, azure waters, beautiful wooden villas, fresh seafood and a laid back atmosphere that reminded me of Madonna’s hit La Isla Bonita. In fact, the wifi on the island is so bad that there isn’t much more to do than lay back and take it all in. It is also an island of natural wonders including pink flamingos and nighttime bioluminescence.
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Where to stay in Holbox Island, Mexico
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Things to do in Holbox Island, Mexico
When in Holbox your absolute first and most instinctive activity should be to enjoy the paradisiacal Caribbean beaches. When you’ve sunbathed and relaxed, it’s time to explore the island.
Explore the village
Grab a bike at your hotel or rent a golf cart to get around. Walking is pretty easy and there are also golf cart taxis to jump into at any moment. Take a spin around the town center and eat churros in the main square. Check out the murals and street art around town and maybe even grab a drink at a lively bar.
Nature adventures
May through September is whale shark season and you can head out to swim with the sea’s gentle giants from this island. You can also go on a three hour boat ride and stop at Yalahau Cenote – a freshwater sinkhole – which was used by pirates for freshwater supply. You can also see pink flamingos on this ride and possibly even feed wild raccoons on the island. These tours are offered all down the beach, so choose the cheapest or the guide that seems the most friendly. At night you can also see the native bioluminescent population on a kayaking tour. Just make sure it’s not a full moon though, or it may be too bright to see them!
Island time
Journey to Playa Punta Coco to nap in the shallow water hammocks and snap a typical Bacalar Insta shot. You can also walk on the huge soft white sandbar to Mosquito Point and see wild stingrays in the clear shallow water. Finally, you can even volunteer at the Refugio Animal Holbox where you can play with rescued dogs, give them a bath or even adopt them!
Eat & drink in Holbox Island, Mexico
Parador 33: Fantastic wood-oven pizza. This restaurant has an outdoor gravel area that is great for kids who can't sit still too long.
Mandarina: Delicious and actually on the beach so the kids can play while you have a leisurely dinner.
LUUMA: Stylish tapas bar with some of the best cocktails on the island.
Travel Advisor
Wendy Wallace
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