By: Rebekah Mullinix
Holbox is the island people can’t stop talking about. The sand roads, shallow beaches, and gorgeous wildlife were enough for me to check it out. Holbox is one of the Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Places), which is a program by the Mexican government that deems cities to have cultural value. I packed my bags and drove to Chiquila, where I caught a Ferry to Holbox. When I arrived on the ferry on my first visit to Holbox, I was immediately excited by the beautiful beaches, the many beachfront restaurants, and the beautiful murals.
Preparing for Your Trip to Holbox
- Cash
- There are only 3 ATMs on the island and when I was there, one was out of service. Based on other travelers’ experiences, the ATMs are often out of money. Holbox is very much a cash economy so make sure to stop by an ATM before arriving in Holbox.
- Insect Repellent
- I cannot stress this enough! The mosquitos are fierce here! You will definitely need some form of deterring the mosquitoes. If you forget repellent, of course there are places to buy it once you arrive.
- Sunscreen
- The sun is pretty intense on the island. I saw many people that had gotten sunburned and even got sunburned myself. So make sure to get something strong and reapply!
Need Car Insurance in Mexico?
Getting Around the Island
There are no cars on the island, so the only mode of transportation is golf carts. You can utilize the many taxi golf carts available, which have very reasonable rates or you can rent one yourself. You can also rent bicycles. Something to keep in mind is that the sand is very similar to silt and can be messy. The roads can flood, so be mindful when walking, riding, or driving around the island. To rent a golf cart or a bike, there are many shops around the island, mainly close to the dock. The general rate is $15 an hour or $100 for 24 hours to rent a golf cart. If you want to mainly use taxis, it is a good idea to get the numbers of some of the taxi drivers, so you can call them to pick you up. Your hotel might also have its own contacts.
Places to Visit in Holbox Island:
- Playa Holbox
- Sand Flats
- Punta Cocos
- Punta Mosquito
Activities in Holbox Island:
Take a tour! Here is a post I wrote on the tours I took in Holbox. My top three:
- Swimming with Whale Sharks (Season May-August)
- 3 Island Tour
- Bioluminescence Tour
Other options on Holbox:
- Horseback Riding on the Beach
- Deep-Sea Fishing
- Surf Fishing
Tours Available Off the Island:
- Chichen Itza (Mayan Ruins)
- Las Colorados (Pink Lake)
Holbox Island Itinerary Suggestions
Action Packed 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive on the island, get settled at your hotel, and get some food. That night, go on the bioluminescence tour.
Day 2: Go on the 10am 3 Island tour. It lasts for 4 hours. After you return around 2, get lunch. Rent a golf cart and drive around!
Day 3: Swim with the Whale Sharks. This is a 7-hour tour that meets at 7 am and you will be exhausted afterward.
Day 4: Catch the sunrise on the sand flats, maybe even walk to Punta Mosquito if there have been flamingo sightings, then pack up and leave.
Relaxed 7 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Holbox, get settled at your hotel, enjoy a meal, and get acquainted with the main square.
Day 2: Enjoy the beach at a beach club or find a hammock to relax in, and get a massage. That night, go on the bioluminescence tour.
Day 3: Sleep in and get brunch before heading on the 2 pm 3 island tour.
Day 4: Rent a golf cart and check out other parts of the island near Punta Cocos. See the sunset at the sand flats by Las Lubes Hotel.
Day 5: Swim the Whale Sharks if it is in season, if not there are other animals that you can swim with such as Mantarays.
Day 6: Enjoy the day at the beach or go to the rooftop pool at Alma Bar.
Day 7: Pack up and leave the island.
