Isla Holbox: Paradise unplugged

Isla Holbox is a dreamy escape off the coast of Yucatán, where sandy streets replace pavement and golf carts are the main mode of transport. The island blends laid-back vibes with natural beauty—think turquoise waters, hammocks over the sea, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks. Whether you're spotting flamingos, swimming with whale sharks (in season), or just enjoying fresh ceviche with your toes in the sand, Holbox invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

WHAT TO DO IN ISLA HOLBOX

1. Exploring Isla Holbox Village

Our first activity on Isla Holbox: wandering through the heart of the village. With its sandy streets, laid-back vibe, and bursts of color at every corner, Holbox feels like a hidden treasure. The roads are unpaved, giving the town a beachy, barefoot charm, and the walls are covered in vibrant street art—murals that tell stories of the sea, local culture, and island life. Cafés, boutique shops, and friendly locals add to the welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect introduction to the island’s relaxed rhythm and creative soul.

2. Book a boat tour

One of the most exciting experiences you can book on Isla Holbox is a boat tour to spot whale sharks. These gentle giants migrate through the waters around the island from mid-May to mid-September, making it a seasonal activity that draws nature lovers from all over. Sadly, even though we were there during the official season, the conditions didn’t allow for the tour to go ahead—so spotting whale sharks wasn’t possible for us this time.

Luckily, there’s a fantastic alternative: a trip to Cabo Catoche. This tour starts with snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, where you can swim alongside nurse sharks and graceful stingrays. After the underwater adventure, you’re treated to freshly prepared ceviche right on a pristine white-sand beach. It’s the perfect blend of thrill and relaxation, and a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Holbox even if the whale sharks don’t show up.

3. Spend a day in a beach bar

No visit to Isla Holbox is complete without spending a full day soaking up the sun at one of its dreamy beach bars. The island boasts some of the most stunning white sand beaches in all of Mexico—soft, powdery, and stretching endlessly along turquoise waters. Settling into a cozy beach bar with a chilled drink in hand and fresh local bites on the table is pure bliss. Whether you're lounging in a hammock, dipping your toes in the sea, or just enjoying the laid-back vibe with music in the background, it's the perfect way to unwind and embrace island life.

4. Walk Across the Sandbank to Flamingo Point

One of the most unique experiences on Isla Holbox is walking across the sandbank that stretches out into the sea. At certain times of the day—when the tide is low and the water recedes—you can wade through knee-deep water along this natural path. It’s a surreal feeling, surrounded by shallow turquoise waters and open sky, as you make your way toward a nearby nature reserve.

At the end of the walk lies a peaceful sanctuary where flamingos can often be spotted, especially during the right season. Their elegant pink silhouettes against the blue horizon make the journey truly worthwhile. Just be sure to check the tide schedule before heading out, as this walk is only possible when the sea allows it.

5. Catch a Sunset

One of the most magical moments on Isla Holbox is watching the sun melt into the sea. Almost anywhere on the island offers a front-row seat to this daily spectacle—whether you're lounging in a beach bar with a cocktail in hand or stretched out on a towel in the sand. The sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges, soft pinks, and deep purples, reflecting off the calm waters in a way that feels almost surreal. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and the perfect way to end a day in paradise.

6. Witness Bioluminescence at Night

One of the most enchanting experiences on Isla Holbox happens after the sun goes down: bioluminescence. On certain nights, especially during the warmer months and when the moonlight is minimal, the waters around the island come alive with glowing plankton. As you move through the shallow sea, every splash and ripple lights up with a surreal blue-green shimmer—like stars dancing beneath the surface.

The best way to enjoy this? Skip the organized tours. Instead, hop on a bike and ride to Punta Cocos, one of the island’s quietest and most beautiful spots. From there, you can walk into the water yourself and witness the glow up close. It’s a peaceful, personal experience that’s far more magical without the crowds. Just check the tide and moonlight conditions beforehand to make sure nature’s light show is on.

HOTEL AND RESTO TIPS

Our hotel stay

During our time on Isla Holbox, we stayed at Alcobas—a trendy and charming boutique hotel that was just right for our adventure-filled days. With its cozy vibe and tasteful design, it felt like a little oasis in the heart of the island. The small pool was a refreshing bonus, perfect for a quick dip after exploring. If you're planning to spend most of your time discovering Holbox and want a comfortable, stylish base to come back to, Alcobas is a great pick.

Tried and tasted: Restaurant tips

When it comes to food recommendations, I like to keep things real. The restaurants listed below aren’t just random picks—they’re places we actually visited and genuinely enjoyed. Each one offered something special, whether it was the atmosphere, the flavors, or the warm hospitality.

So if you’re looking for spots that are truly worth your time (and appetite), these are our personal favorites—and absolute must-tries.

Mr Happy: Good breakfast or lunch