About
Just a short ferry ride from Cancun is Isla Mujeres, home to what the world hails as Mexico's most beautiful beach. Welcome to Playa Norte!
This public beach is perched on the northern tip of Isla Mujeres and offers white sand, brilliant turquoise waters, and stunning horizons.
Isla Mujeres translates into "Island of Women," which the Spanish named after discovering figures of the Mayan Goddess Ixchel.
Over the years, this once-secluded island has become a cherished vacation destination. It features top-end hotels, restaurants, beach bars, and even a world-renowned museum. These are immersed between swaying palms, sugar-white sandy beaches, and blue waters.
Its less-crowded beach and laid-back vibe also make it appealing. The calm currents and lack of rocks make it one of the safest for families with younger children.
Also on the five-mile-long island is Garrafon Park, a water theme park centered around a stunning reef. They offer paddleboarding, ziplining, and snorkeling trips.
Speaking of water adventures, a must-do when visiting is signing up for a tour of the MUSA Underwater Museum. These underwater sculptures create a natural reef that is stunning to behold, either snorkeling or scuba diving.
You will find paradise on your Cancun vacation at Playa Norte!
Playa Norte-Isla Mujeres: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A cool feature is the ferry ride. While several companies offer this service, the most popular is Ultramar. The cost is competitive, and it docks near Playa Norte. Here, you can walk or rent a golf cart to get to the beach, which is .4 miles away.
Speaking of golf carts, booking one for your Playa Norte adventure allows you the freedom to explore on your timeframe and leisure. For a list of dealers, check the website's Things To Do. Reserving in advance is advisable, making the financial transaction safe and avoiding the hassle of using cash.
Since we're on the topic of money, many small island vendors only take cash. Larger hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, so check before you go!
Aside from soaking up the sun beside the crystal-clear waters, the area is rich with reefs to snorkel and scuba dive. The aforementioned MUSA is one option, while many water tours abound on Isla Mujeres for all levels and interests.
A cool feature (literally!) is the sandy beach. Made of finely crushed coral, it remains cool under intense tropical sun. This refreshing aspect makes strolling and reaching the surf safe for young and old alike.
When you need cool beverages or a delicious meal, top-tier restaurants are a short jaunt away. One example is Zama Beach Club, which offers outdoor seating, water views, and fresh seafood.
Another perk of visiting is experiencing the stunning sunsets. The island's unique position offers unobstructed views as orange, yellow, and crimson hues mark the ocean's horizon.
Playa Norte provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're lounging under a swaying palm, snorkeling among vibrant marine life, or indulging in fresh local bites, this beach promises an unforgettable escape that embodies the heart and soul of Mexico's tropical charm.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from Cancun to the Ultramar Ferry Dock:
- Take Boulevard Kukulcán to Carretera Puerto Juarez.
- Continue until reaching the Ultramar Ferry Dock.
- Park your vehicle at the parking facility.
- Ferries run frequently every 15 to 20 minutes.
- After arriving on the island, walk, rent a bike, or take a taxi to Playa Norte.
- Address: Calle Abasolo S/N, Centro, Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, C.P. 77400.
Local Tips
- Arrive early in the morning to secure a prime spot on the beach.
- Bring cash in small denominations for rentals and local vendors.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life while swimming or snorkeling.
- Rent a golf cart or bike to explore beyond Playa Norte.
- Avoid peak hours on weekends to experience a quieter and more relaxing environment.
- Pack water and snacks to save money.
