Resort life is great—until you start to feel like a decorative pillow. I desperately needed to shake things up on my Riviera Maya Trip and experience the real culture of Mexico. So I booked a snorkeling, sailing, and shopping excursion to Isla Mujeres with Cancun Adventures, and let me tell you—it was one of the best decisions of the trip.
Snorkeling had been sitting on my bucket list, so knocking out a few tropical dreams all in one day? Yes, please.
What the Excursion Includes:
- An hour of sailing through the Caribbean
- 30 minutes of snorkeling (weather permitting)
- An open bar 🍹
- Lunch served aboard
- Two hours of exploring Isla Mujeres
It’s basically a choose-your-own-adventure on the prettiest water you’ve ever seen.
All Aboard the Catamaran
As soon as we arrived at the marina, we were escorted onto the catamaran. The music was already bumping, the crew was full of energy, and the boat was spotless. Before we even left the dock, there was a competition between boats to see who could cheer the loudest. You better believe we showed up.
That day, the wind was too high for snorkeling, and the crew announced the change right away. They offered a full refund if anyone wanted off. Most of us stayed—because honestly, the vibes were already that good.
Sailing to Paradise
Listen, I know every travel blog says this—but the water really is that blue. No filter. No Photoshop. Just straight-up Caribbean magic.
While we sailed, the onboard chef served lunch (legit good) and the crew gave us a little backstory on the island. Isla Mujeres means “Island of Women,” named after images of Ixchel—the Mayan goddess of childbirth and fertility—found there during a Spanish expedition in 1517.
Big goddess energy. Loved that for us.
Exploring Isla Mujeres
Once we docked, the crew gave us a rundown: go snorkeling on your own in this small cove near the island, shop the town, or rent a bike or golf cart to explore. We went with the golf cart. It was $40 USD for two hours, and yes—you have to leave your driver’s license as collateral.
Totally worth it.
We headed to Punta Sur, the southern tip of the island. It’s home to Mayan ruins, the Cliff of the Dawn, bright artwork, giant iguanas, and panoramic views of the ocean. I tried to get a close-up photo of one of the iguanas but was strongly advised otherwise by someone who shall remain unnamed. Chicken. (It’s fine—I still got the shot.)
Scenic Cruising + Missed Taco Opportunities
Driving from the south end of the island back up north was chef’s kiss. Think ocean views, unique homes, beachy shops, and roadside coconut stands. I’m still mad we didn’t stop for tacos, but traffic was backed up and we kept moving. Next time, we’re pulling over. Period.
Shopping & Smooth-Talking Salesmen
There’s a small public beach near the main shopping area, but it was a little crowded, so we kept exploring. The water was clearer than at the resort, but we didn’t stay in long.
Shopping and chatting with the locals was a total vibe. One vendor complimented my ankles and told me his handmade anklet would look “absolutely stunning” on me. I mean, SOLD. Take my money, flattery works.
Already Planning a Return Trip
Three hours on the island wasn’t enough—I could’ve easily stayed a week. I’m already dreaming of coming back with a group of friends and posting up in a cute Airbnb with a hammock and no agenda.
Got a rec? Slide it my way.
If you ever get the chance to visit Isla Mujeres—do it. Rent the golf cart, buy the anklet, skip the snorkel if you want to. It’s the kind of place you don’t forget.
🌴 Ready to Book Your Own Isla Mujeres Adventure?
Want to sail the Caribbean, explore Isla Mujeres, and sip pineapple drinks under the sun?
You can book the exact same excursion I did right here:
👉 Book the Cancun Adventures Catamaran Tour on Expedia
Affiliate link. Same price for you—small commission for me to keep the sunscreen stocked.