For the past few years, we have made Isla Mujeres our go to Mexican getaway (read all about it here) . The locals had told us about another island to visit that is perfect for young kids called Isla Holbox (pronounced Hole-BOSH). We heard about this island and were intrigued, so we decided that the next time we could travel, we wanted to go there.
With its unspoiled beauty, sandy roads, and chill vibe, this island is literally paradise. Many bloggers have been reluctant to write about it to keep this gem of an island a secret. People have seen my pictures on social media asking, “Is the island still quiet? I went many years ago and it was amazing!” So whatever you do, do not tell anyone about this place!!
Travelling with kids can be challenging at times, so we laid out everything you need to know to make your trip to Isla Holbox smooth, easy and enjoyable!
Getting to Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is 61 km northwest of Cancún, located on the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and is accessed by ferry from the mainland town of Chiquilá. You have a few options on how to get to Isla Holbox.
By private transfer
This is the option that we chose. If you are flying into Cancún, It is best to have this pre arranged prior to your arrival in Mexico. After exiting baggage claim, you will come across car rental agencies, people offering you tours, and many taxi cab drivers wanting you to take their cars. There will be the driver holding a sign with your name, so be on the lookout. They will take you to your own private shuttle that will take you to Chiquilá. We used Go Holbox to book our transfer. One way from Cancún to Chiquilá costs $120USD + tip. ($240 USD round trip) Ask them to take the toll road ($176 MXN pesos which you have to pay) Be aware that the road is quite bumpy, so if you are someone who gets nauseous, it would be ideal to take a motion sickness pill. The ride from Cancún to Chiquilá is approximately 2 hours, so be sure to have some water and snacks handy. There are extra costs involved for stopping along the way.
By plane
The most expensive way is by private Cessna aircraft. You can fly direct from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Mérida, Isla Mujeres, and Cozumel. A one way flight will cost you on average $700USD https://flights-holbox.com/
By car
Another option is to rent a car and drive to Chiquilá. No cars are allowed on the island, so you will have to park your car for the duration of your stay on the island at one of the many secure car parks near the ferry docks. Average cost is $6USD per day.
By bus
The Yucatán peninsula has a very efficient public transport network of different classes of buses. Taking the bus to Chiquilá is an economical means of transport but it does take a bit more time. Not only is it the cheapest way to travel, it is a unique experience. Depending where you are travelling from, the cost is $100-500 MXN pesos. Bus companies: ADO, Mayab, Oriente and Noreste
Once you reach Chiquilá, you will need to purchase your ferry tickets. There are two ferry providers which operate a regular service between the small fishing village of Chiquilá and Holbox: the ‘Holbox Express’ and ‘9 Hermanos’. Ferries leave every half hour, so purchase your tickets for whichever ferry is leaving next.
When about to board, hand off your luggage to the attendants who will place it at the front of the boat. You will then board and you can sit on the upper deck outside, or below inside with air conditioning. A short 25 minute ride across the bay and you have made it to Isla Holbox!
Arriving on Isla Holbox
As soon as you arrive, you will see taxi golf carts to the left of the ferry dock. The cost varies on the distance to your accommodation.. You can walk to your hotel as the island is pretty compact, however, we were tired from travelling all day and being in the hot sun, so we hired a taxi. The ride cost us approximately $2US
Taxi line up Taxi prices for zones
Where to Stay
Holbox started as a backpacker destination, but there are now many small-scale beach hotels offering mid-range and luxury stays. The vibe though is still very much barefoot and casual. Your two options where to stay are on the beach or in town. It will be cheaper to stay in town as you do not have the beach access readily available. We stayed at Villas HM Paraiso del Mar. Great location directly across from the beach, with a pool, option for all inclusive, and a short 15 minute walk into town.
Things to do in Holbox
One of the draws to the island is doing absolutely nothing! People come here to relax, enjoy the warm Caribbean waters, and unwind. It truly is a place of rest and relaxation. That being said, if you want to keep your kids busy, there are many activities you can do as a family! Listed below are a few!
Watch the sunset
Rent bicycles and cycle around the island
Explore the island by golf cart
Explore the town
Hit up Instagram spots
Discover the art murals
Get a beach massage
Money
Before heading to the island, be sure to bring enough pesos with you. Many places do not take credit cards, or the payment terminal is connected to wifi, and most of the time it does not work. There is a money exchange in town, if you find yourself needing to change currency. The bank machines are unreliable as they run out of pesos, so do not bother trying.
Where to eat
Being an island, there are many restaurants that serve fresh fish caught in the ocean that morning. However, there are some of the finest restaurants and there are many options for all types of diets.
Taco Queto serves traditional Mexican tacos, burritos. Very affordable $
The food truck in the restaurant where food is prepared Chicken tacos Milo approves! Pastor Burro Super Quesadilla
Raices serves fresh fish and traditional Mexican food. Beach seating and great spot to watch the sunset. Very affordable $
Raices on the beach Portions are very big, and very affordable!
Roots Pizza– If you are in the mood for pizza, this is your spot! Thin crust, wood oven fired and delicious. You must try the lobster pizza! Affordable $$
Roots Pizza A La Leña Famous Lobster Pizza All pizzas made from scratch
Why choose Isla Holbox?
Isla Holbox is a place that is not easy to get to, however once you make the trek, you will be glad you did. The island is literally paradise. The warm, calm, crystal clear waters make it the ideal beach for kids to swim and play in. We have been fortunate to visit many places, and nothing compares to Isla Holbox. Being a same sex family, we felt very safe, welcomed, and made many friends along our way. The island is simple, laid back, and there is something magical about it that cannot be put into words, so you will have to experience it for yourself. We cannot wait to return! Isla Holbox definitely has a special place in our hearts.
