The perfect weekend getaway? A paradisiac island with few people and many things to do. Away from the urban chaos and pollution, to enjoy a cleaner and fresher environment. We have the best place to make these dreams come true: the Island of Holbox. Holbox is a Mexican island in the Northeast coast of the Yucatecan Peninsula that belongs to the state of Quintana Roo. With a population of 1,500 people, the island is the perfect place to relax. However, it can get very touristy especially during high season and national holidays. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly to enjoy this real paradise in peace and tranquillity.
How do you get there?
Coming from Merida, you can take a bus from ADO’s (Calle 69 554 x Calle 68 y 70). The bus ride normally takes up to 5:30 hours to get to Chiquilá, the small town where you have to take the ferry (150 pesos approximately, although the price may vary) that will take you to Holbox in 25 minutes. If you are bringing your vehicle, you must leave it in Chiquilá since no cars are allowed on the island. There are private parking lots that charge 50 pesos per day, and 100 pesos per night.
What to do there?
As soon as you arrive to Holbox you will feel the slow-placed environment of the island. The best thing to do is to relax and enjoy the beautiful nature around you. Walk down the beach and immerse yourself in crystal clear blue waters. It’s like being in a postcard! The shallow water allows you to walk even when you are away from the shore. From the main beach, keep walking right until you get to the “end of the island” where you can spot flamingos!
If you feel like more action, you can join one of the many tours they offer on the island. The most common is the visit to the three islands (Yalahau lagoon, Isla Pajaros, Isla Pasion) but you can also join fishing and snorkelling tours or you can rent a kayak and explore the area by yourself. From June to September, don’t miss the chance to swim with whale sharks!
Before the sun sets, head to Punta Coco to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Don’t forget your bug spray! We highly suggest to rent a bike to move around the island. Most of the hostels and hotels have bikes for rent and there are also many places that offer this service.
When the night comes, join a tour to experience the beautiful phenomenon of bioluminescent planktons. There are different options to see it. If joining a tour, make sure they take you far from the centre of the island to be in complete darkness. Otherwise, head to Punta Coco if you want to experience it by yourself.
There is no better way to end the day than with a great dinner! Holbox is where the famous Lobster Pizza was born at Edelyn, restaurant and pizza place. It’s a little bit expensive, in comparison with the regular pizza flavours but, hey it’s LOBSTER! The taste is great and the location even better, so don’t forget to add this to your must-try list. If lobster is not your thing, don’t worry, there are plenty of restaurants and food options to satisfy all tastes.
Holbox is also a very Instagrammable worthy place. It has a lot of murals, colourful spots and amazing beaches, just walk around and you’ll notice it immediately.
Where can I stay?
Sleeping on an island is usually more expensive than staying on the mainland and Holbox is no exception. Luckily, there are different options to fit your budget. There are several hostels on the island that offer many activities and they are all walking distance from the beach. If you feel like a more fancy accommodation there are plenty of hotels and Air B&Bs. Make sure to book in advance if you are travelling during high season. Availability can chance quickly and prices can get very expensive.
Whether you will stay in a hostel or a hotel, we are sure you will love the island as much as we do, Holbox will leave you breathless!
Have you heard of Holbox Island before and their Lobster Pizza? Let us know your thoughts ___ in the comments section. We want to know about your experience __! Don’t forget to subscribe and help us spread this wonderful information.
Si te gustó este post y quieres mantenerte en contacto con nosotros, ¡subscríbete a Barrio Vivo ahora!
