Imagine stepping off a boat onto a dock where, instead of music, you hear only the gentle sounds of the Caribbean Sea. This is the peaceful beginning of a stay on Isla Mujeres, at a resort that offers a real contrast to the energy of nearby Cancun. If you’re looking for a place where you can connect with nature and local culture without sacrificing comfort, this island getaway is worth exploring.
A Serene Island Escape
Isla Mujeres truly offers a unique experience, especially when you find yourself on its tranquil southwest coast. The island itself is a destination that encourages exploration, whether you’re zipping around in a golf cart or discovering its ancient history. The approach to this side of the island provides an immediate sense of calm.
Finding Peace on the Water
One morning, I was practicing yoga on a dock, looking down at the clear turquoise water. Little silver fish darted beneath the planks, a natural show that made me pause. This quiet moment by the sea, a world away from the busier parts of the Yucatán, set the tone for the entire visit. Arriving by catamaran from Cancun highlights the dramatic shift in scenery and atmosphere.
Luxury Meets Local Culture
This resort on Isla Mujeres is designed to offer a luxurious experience that’s deeply rooted in the island’s heritage. It’s not the typical all-inclusive where you might spend your entire day by the pool. Instead, it encourages you to engage with the island’s natural beauty and Mayan past.
Exploring Punta Sur
A guided walk to Punta Sur, the island’s southernmost point, is a must. This rugged cliff area is steeped in history. It’s known as the place where Mexico’s first sunrise is seen, offering a powerful connection to the island’s ancient significance. The views from here are breathtaking, with dramatic drops to the sea below.
Island Transportation
Getting around Isla Mujeres is an adventure in itself. Renting a golf cart is the preferred way to navigate the island streets and reach various points of interest. It offers a sense of freedom and allows you to stop whenever a beautiful view or a charming spot catches your eye. The resort makes it easy to arrange these rentals right at reception.
Coastal Adventures
The waters around Isla Mujeres are perfect for various activities. Taking a boat trip offers a different perspective of the island. One afternoon, I found myself relaxing on the netting of a catamaran, enjoying a local drink and the gentle sway of the waves. Later, I jumped into the clear waters off Playa Norte, the island’s famous white-sand beach, dotted with palm trees.
Tranquil Pockets and Island Flavors
While Isla Mujeres can certainly be lively, there are many quiet corners to discover, especially at this resort. Whether you’re lounging on a daybed on its private beach, enjoying dinner on a rooftop with live local music, or having a drink in the softly lit lobby bar, tranquility is always within reach.
Dining Experiences
The dining at this all-inclusive resort is a highlight, with several stylish spots offering à la carte service. Mornings often started at the all-day cafe for a coffee and a treat before heading to the main lobby restaurant. The breakfast menu features dishes inspired by Mayan traditions, such as papadzules, a local specialty.
What local breakfast dishes can you try?
You can explore Mayan-inspired dishes like papadzules, a delicious hand-pressed tortilla filled with lobster and poached eggs, all covered in a green salsa. It’s a flavorful start to your day that showcases authentic island ingredients.
For lunch, casual poolside dining offers plates perfect for snacking while enjoying the view. The resort also thoughtfully prepares packed lunches for those spending the day out on excursions or chartering a boat, ensuring you have a taste of local flavors even at sea.
Evening Delights
Dinner can be enjoyed at the relaxed rooftop restaurant with its ocean views, or back at the main restaurant. Both offer excellent service and a chance to linger over your meal. A standout dish is a tender short rib prepared with chilmole, a rich regional sauce made from charred tortillas, offering a deep, complex flavor.
For a more laid-back experience, a beachfront food truck serves up various bites and smoothies. A beachside bar offers signature cocktails, while an intimate lobby bar is the perfect spot for a nightcap, rounding out a day of exploration and relaxation.
Engaging Activities and Wellness
The resort provides a full schedule of activities, accessible through their app, catering to a range of interests. These range from creative workshops, like coconut painting on the beach, to social gatherings, such as mezcal tastings that help you connect with other guests.
Culinary Workshops
One particularly memorable event is the sunset barbecue. Guests are invited to participate in preparing tikin xic, the island’s signature fish dish. You’ll be given fresh filets of local grouper, spices, vegetables, and achiote paste. With guidance, you’ll coat the fish with the flavorful paste, then grill it to perfection.
Serving this delicious, earthy tikin xic as the sun dips below the horizon is an experience that combines food, culture, and an incredible natural spectacle. It’s a hands-on way to learn about traditional island cooking and enjoy a fantastic meal with a view.
Underwater Exploration and Nature
Beyond the resort’s offerings, excursions can take you to fascinating local attractions. The Underwater Museum of Art, located just offshore, offers a unique diving or snorkeling experience with sculptures submerged in the sea. For nature lovers, a trip to Isla Contoy, a protected national park that is an uninhabited island, is highly recommended.
The resort also features a well-equipped fitness center for those who want to maintain their workout routine. Complementing the active options is a luxurious spa and two swimming pools. One pool is located on the rooftop, offering stunning views, while the other is situated just off the beach, complete with a convenient swim-up bar.
What wellness options are available?
The spa provides a comprehensive list of treatments, including unique offerings like a shaman consultation. There’s also a full hydrotherapy circuit with a steam room, sauna, whirlpool, and cold plunge pool.
For ultimate relaxation, you can unwind in soft cocoon chairs that are designed with warm water running through them, creating a soothing sensation that aims to mimic being in the womb. I opted for a facial that incorporated volcanic glass and activated charcoal, leaving my skin feeling refreshed and looking remarkably good.
Sustainability and Accessibility
For those who require it, the resort has one ADA-certified room, ensuring a comfortable stay. The renovation of the resort was conducted with a strong focus on sustainability. Materials used for beams around the resort were sourced from recycled items, and the lighting throughout the property is energy-efficient LED.
Eco-Conscious Practices
A specialized HVAC system was installed to minimize water usage. To further reduce waste, drinking water is provided in Tetra Pak cartons, and guests are given a reusable Almare-branded water bottle upon arrival. You can refill this bottle at various water fountains located throughout the resort, making it easy to stay hydrated while being environmentally friendly.
Location Highlights
Positioned on the less crowded southwest side of Isla Mujeres, the resort offers spectacular sunset views. It’s situated next to a well-known beachfront grill that is credited with popularizing the island’s signature tikin xic fish dish. This proximity means you can easily experience that local culinary tradition.
Exploring the Island’s Southern Tip
A short drive, or a pleasant walk, will take you to Punta Sur. This viewpoint not only offers incredible vistas but also features a sculpture park that honors the island’s local history and cultural heritage. It’s a great spot for both scenic appreciation and cultural discovery.
Access to Beaches and Nightlife
Playa Norte, a lively public beach known for its beautiful white sand and palm trees, is about a 15-minute drive away. Similarly, Calle Miguel Hidalgo, a central area for the island’s nightlife, is also within a similar driving distance. This location provides a good balance between a peaceful retreat and access to the island’s more energetic side.
How do you get to Isla Mujeres?
The closest international airport is in Cancun. From there, you can arrange for a car service to take you to the Puerto Cancun marina. At the marina, you’ll be met and escorted to a private boat that will whisk you across the water to Isla Mujeres.
The boat ride itself is an experience, offering a first glimpse of the island’s beauty and the clear Caribbean waters. It’s a smooth and scenic journey that sets a relaxed tone for your arrival.
Maximizing Your Stay
For those who are part of the Marriott Bonvoy program, there are advantages to booking your stay here. You can use points for your reservation and often benefit from special rates. Depending on your membership status, you might also receive room upgrades, later checkout times when available, or even complimentary spa services.
Nightly rates for a stay at this resort typically start around $774, offering a high-end experience on this beautiful island. It’s a worthwhile investment for a getaway that combines luxury, natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences.
I hope this guide helps you envision your own trip to Isla Mujeres and this wonderful resort. It’s a place where you can find relaxation, adventure, and a genuine connection with the local culture.