Twenty minutes by ferry from Cancún to one of the best beaches in the world. Rent a golf cart, swim at Playa Norte, eat ceviche, catch the sunset at Punta Sur. Best day trip in the Yucatán.
One of the best day trips available from anywhere in Mexico. The island is 5 miles long and a quarter-mile wide. A golf cart covers everything in 30 minutes. Playa Norte is consistently ranked among the top 10 beaches in the world.
The north tip of the island has Caribbean-flat, waist-deep turquoise water and white sand that stays cool in the sun. Consistently rated one of the best beaches in the world. Go before 11am when day-trippers arrive. There are palapa bars on the beach — get a fresh coconut and settle in.
Hidalgo Street is the island's pedestrian main drag — several small ceviche and taco spots open for lunch. El Pibe (Argentine-leaning), Minino's (local staple), and Lancheros (beachside) are all reliable. Order the ceviche, the fish tacos, and whatever seafood is fresh.
The south tip of the island has the most dramatic scenery — open Caribbean crashing against limestone cliffs, a small Mayan temple ruin (Ixchel), and a sculpture garden with colorful contemporary art. Drive your golf cart to the end of the road. Sunset here is spectacular if you stay late enough.
Last ferry back runs around 8:30pm but check the current schedule. Return your golf cart 30 minutes before your ferry. The ride back to the Hotel Zone at sunset, crossing the Caribbean with Cancún's skyline appearing on the horizon, is a good last memory.
Puerto Juárez ferry terminal is the cheapest and most frequent option — 15-minute crossing, ferries every 30 minutes, about each way. Take a cab from the Hotel Zone to Puerto Juárez (15 min, ). The Hotel Zone ferry terminals also work but charge more and run less frequently.
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