Travel

How To Get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun Hotel Zone

Last Updated 2 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: August 30, 2019

How to Get from Cancun Hotel Zone to Isla Mujeres (

After a beautiful stay at the Hard Rock Cancun, we were ready to go a little off the beaten path and explore Isla Mujeres. Although it was a popular destination, we found that whenever we asked people how to get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun, we received a variety of different answers, which left me a bit confused. After conducting research, we realized that the recommendations we kept receiving were more expensive for no reason. So I decided to share the top three ways people can get to Isla Mujeres from the Cancun Hotel Zone (Hint: It’s pretty easy!)

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Table of Contents

The easiest way to get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun is to take a taxi from the hotel to Puerto Jaurez. From Puerto Juarez, take the UltraMar Ferry ($20 round-trip ticket for adults and $15 for children, if purchased online, but more expensive if purchased in person) to Isla Mujeres.

Isla Mujeres Ferry Schedule

Both the Ultramar Ferry and Navegante Isla Mujeres Ferry depart every 30 minutes and offer amenities such as air conditioning, bathrooms, a coat check, and indoor and outdoor seating.

The hotels will recommend that you take a taxi or private transportation from the hotel to Playa Tortugas or El Embarcadeo. From there, you take the Ultramar ferry to Isla Mujeres. Prices are $26 round trip tickets if purchased online, and more expensive if purchased in person.

Why don’t I like this option? While technically these ports are a little closer than the Puerto Jaurez departure point (about a 10-minute drive from downtown Cancun), the taxi fare is not that much more. Since there were two of us, we saved about $20 going the other route. Also, this one departs only every hour, while the ferry at Puerto Juárez departs every half hour.

The Cheapest Route

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t have much luggage, the public bus system is the best option. It looks complicated at first, but the Cancun’s hotel zone is pretty straightforward. For about $6, you can take the R1 or R2 to the Puerto Juarez ferry terminal (just 10 minutes from downtown Cancun) and take the high-speed ferry service from there. This is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, and I’ve also included the route map.

Tips for a Smooth Ferry Ride

Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure.
Have cash or a credit card ready for ticket purchase.
If prone to seasickness, consider sitting in the middle of the vessel where there is less motion.

Once You Get to Isla Mujeres

Once you get to the coast of Isla Mujeres, you have a couple of options. The island is small but not necessarily walkable. Most people get around by golf cart for about $60ish a day. If you plan on using a golf cart every day (we decided to only rent one for a day), go ahead and rent a golf cart from the beginning to prevent having to drive into town twice.

We decided to spend our first day relaxing at our hotel, so we opted for a taxi (about $7 to the Izla Hotel). After you leave the ferry port, you immediately take a left, and they have a little taxi station where they help people get into taxis in an orderly manner. It tends to be a little packed right after the ferry lets everyone off, so try to get there fast if you can.

Ariel View of Isla Mujeres — A view of Isla Mujeres from our plane

Things to do in Isla Mujeres

Now that you’ve arrived in Isla Mujeres, it’s time for all the fun to begin! From its beautiful white-sand beaches to colorful coral reef, Isla Mujeres is Cancun’s closest island and worth a visit. It’s one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya, and for good reason. While a lot of people go for a day trip, I’d say 2-3 days in Isla Mujeres is the perfect number. You can read about the best things to do in Isla Mujeres here!

How To Get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun: FAQs

What is the best way to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres?

The most popular way to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres is by ferry. This 30-minute ferry ride departs from Puerto Jaurez every 30 minutes. The ferries are comfortable, and least expensive way to get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun ($20 round-trip ticket for adults and $15 for children if purchased online).

How much is a taxi from Cancun International Airport to Isla Mujeres?

A taxi from Cancun Airport to the Isla Mujeres ferry terminal (Puerto Juarez) typically costs between $45 and USD 50. Pre-booking a private transfer is more reliable and cost around USD 40. To avoid higher fares and unlicensed drivers, it’s recommended to book your ride in advance.

Do I need cash for Isla Mujeres?

Yes, carrying cash is essential when visiting Isla Mujeres. While major hotels and some restaurants accept credit cards, many local businesses, street vendors, and taxis operate cash only. It is recommended to use Mexican pesos, as paying in U.S. dollars may result in unfavorable exchange rates.

How To Get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun: Final Thoughts

I’ll never forget that first glimpse of Isla Mujeres’ turquoise waters and most beautiful beaches. The ferry ride itself becomes part of the adventure, and once you set foot on the island, you’ll instantly know it was worth it. So, take your pick – ferry or private boat – and get ready to be captivated by the charm of Isla Mujeres. So, plan your route, pack your beach day necessities, and prepare for an island escape you won’t soon forget!