Isla Mujeres is one of my favorite destinations in Mexico. But there are many options on where to stay. These are the best hotels on Isla Mujeres as well as some tips on where first-time visitors should stay.
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Best Hotels Overview
What is The Best Area on Isla Mujeres to Stay?
The neighborhood of Isla Mujeres that you will want to stay in depends on what you are looking for. These are the areas with the most hotels, and where you will likely want to stay in one of these areas:
North Island (Downtown/El Centro)
I recommend first time visitors to Isla Mujeres to stay on the north part of the island near North Beach (Playa Norte). It is considered the downtown area and is where most tourists will spend their time. The main Street, Miguel Hidalgo, is closed to cars and is lined with bars and restaurants. This is also where North Beach is located. This beach is commonly listed as one of the best beaches in the world and is lined with many of the best beach bars and beachfront hotels.
El Centro is very safe, busy, and the most walkable area of Isla Mujeres and so you don’t need to rent a golf cart or take taxis to get around. Generally, you will find the larger hotels along Playa Norte, nice boutique hotels within a block or two of the beach, and then very small hotels and VRBOs scattered around downtown.
South Island & Sac Bajo
To the south, most of the hotels are along the western side of the island and up the peninsula called Sac Bajo.
Sac Bajo has a variety of exclusive and luxurious accommodations, ranging from upscale condos to large beachfront hotels. This area caters more to those seeking a peaceful and luxurious island experience. It isn’t a very walkable area, and most restaurants in the southern part of the island close much earlier in the night than those in the downtown area. To get downtown you will need to take taxis. Or some of the hotels have golf carts that you can rent during your stay.
If you want a quieter stay without the nightlife, then this might be a good option.
Mid Island (Colonias)
This is the area where most locals live. There are very few hotels, but rather mostly apartment rentals and VRBOs. Some of the apartments have small pools, while many do not. While this is still a safe area and has some great restaurants, most people visiting Isla for the first time typically want more convenient access to the beaches and more amenities. Unless you are a frequent visitor to Isla or are renting an affordable apartment for a stay of many months then I wouldn’t stay in this area.
Best Hotels Near North Beach
#1 Privilege Aluxes
Top Choice
Privilege Aluxes at a Glance
Pros
- Great location on the corner of Playa Centro and Playa Norte
- Amenities include 2 pools, pool bar
- All-Inclusive available (but not required)
- Suites are available with private Jacuzzis or rooftop pool
Cons
- Dining is pretty standard
- Beach club is near, but not right on North Beach
Check Prices
Privilege Aluxes is an adults-only (age 14+) luxury hotel known for its excellent location and amenities. While the hotel technically overlooks Playa Centro, it is right near the corner to Playa Norte and all the other beach bars there.
The luxury beach club offers both reclining beach chairs and Balinese beds. Or if you prefer, there are two pools, several Jacuzzis, and a pool bar. For those who want to focus on health and wellness, there is an onsite gym and spa.
On top of this, the accommodations feature modern rooms, many of which have balconies. But it’s the suites here that are the ultimate prize. They are available in one or two bedrooms, have balconies or terraces, and come with your own private Jacuzzi or pool.
In addition to dining at the beach club or pool, the main restaurant Sabor offers a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning and then a la carte Mexican & American options thorughout the rest of the day. And there is also an Asian restaurant.
If it fits your budget, Privilege Aluxes is my top hotel recommendation due to its location near the beach, bars and hotels in El Centro, and for the amenities.
All Inclusive Offered: Privilege Aluxes is one of the few hotels on Isla Mujeres that offers an All-Inclusive package. This includes dining at any of the restaurants, mini bar restocking, and of course drinks throughout the day at the pool or beach club. The current daily AI rate is around $50/pp.
Location
Amenities
Dining
#2 Ixchel Beach
Top Choice
Ixchel Beach at a Glance
Pros
- Perhaps the best location on Isla Mujeres overlooking Playa Norte
Cons
- Not quite as upscale as some other hotels
Check Prices
Ixchel Beach has perhaps the best hotel location in Isla Mujeres, as it is a beachfront hotel directly on Playa Norte. There are two towers, each with their own pool facing the beach. Food and drinks are available all day at the beach bar and restaurant, with reclining beach chairs available for guests.
Accommodations include standard rooms, suites, and up to 3-bedroom penthouses (some of which have rooftop Jacuzzis). Many rooms have balconies, and those facing the beach are among the most coveted and best on the island for viewing the sunset.
Location
Amenities
Dining
#3 Nautibeach
Top Choice
Nautibeach at a Glance
Pros
- The On-site Mayan Beach Club is one of the best restaurants on the beach
- Great location on Playa Norte
Cons
- Condos are privately owned, and can vary in how updated they are
- Pool isn’t heated
Check Prices
Nautibeach is actually 24 privately owned condos located right on Playa Norte. Many of the owners rent out their units when they aren’t staying there themselves.
The rooms have balconies and range from studios up to 3-bedroom penthouses. But because they are individually owned, the condos vary in how modern they are.
The pool is good sized and overlooks the beach. The only issue is it isn’t heated so it can get a little cool in the winter months The on-site restaurant Mayan Beach Club is one of the most loved places on the beach and is an especially great spot for a sunset dinner and drinks.
Location
Amenities
Dining
#4 Hotel Secreto
Mid-Range Boutique
Hotel Secreto at a Glance
Pros
- A very intimate setting, yet is just steps away from downtown
Cons
- There is a small beach, but the ocean is not swimmable here
- No onsite dining option, though there is a rooftop bar
Check Prices
Hotel Secreto is a boutique hotel known for an intimate and personalized stay experience. This mid-range property features only 12 suites, making it a great choice for travelers who prefer a smaller, more private setting away from larger resorts.
The hotel lives up to its name, as it is situated on a fairly secluded and quiet spot on the northern tip of Isla Mujeres. The area feels very private yet, the bustle of downtown with restaurants and bars is just a three-minute walk. This is especially important because there is no onsite restaurant, though there is a rooftop bar.
Although there is a small beach, the water is not swimmable here. For that, North Beach is just a short walk by road or along a slightly rocky beachside path.
Location
Amenities
Dining
N/A
#5 Hotel Playa La Media Luna
Mid-Range Boutique
Media Luna at a Glance
Pros
- Very private and quiet location, while still just a short walk to downtown and Playa Norte.
Cons
- No onsite restaurant
- Beach here is not swimmable
Check Prices
Located right next to Hotel Secreto is Hotel Playa La Media Luna. They share the same beach and location. The water here is not swimmable, but Playa Norte is just a short walk by street or along a somewhat rocky path beside the water. There is also no on-site restaurant.
The pool area is beautiful, with a nice view over the water. Because it is tucked away down a quiet road, it gives a very peaceful and private stay while still being close to all the action downtown. There are only 18 rooms and it is often sold out because the price is quite reasonable compared to other nearby hotels.
Location
Amenities
Dining
N/A
Selina Poc Na
Budget Hostel
Selina at a Glance
Pros
- Affordable option for long term travelers
- Best place for digital nomads as it has a coworking space with some of the best WiFi on the island
- Offers shared rooms with bunk beds up to private suites
Cons
- Pool is small and rarely used other than for SCUBA certifications
Check Prices
Selina PocNa is a hostel that offers one of the most affordable accomodations on Isla Mujeres. Many people who stay here are longer term travelers or digital nomads. And the age skews younger here. Selina caters specifically to these crowds and has the only coworking space with some of the best WiFi on the island. It is available for an additional fee even if you don’t stay here. Selina also hosts parties on Saturday nights that are open to everyone, whether you stay here or not.
There are room options for everyone, including those with shared bunks, private rooms, and even larger sized private family rooms. Or a cool option is to try the teepee rooms.
While it is located along a small beach, the ocean here isn’t swimmable. But it’s located just a few blocks from the calm waters of Playa Norte.
There is a dive instruction center located on site, so this is also popular with people looking to become SCUBA certified. And while there isn’t a gym, there is a large gazebo overlooking the water that hosts morning yoga sessions.
Location
Amenities
Dining
Best Hotels on Sac Bajo & South Island
#1 Zoëtry Villa Rolandi
Luxury All-Inclusive
Zoetry at a Glance
Pros
- Arguably the top luxury hotel on the island
- Excellent dining (Casa Rolandi)
- Rooms are all ocean facing
- Private beach area
Cons
- Only all-inclusive
- Expensive
Check Prices
Zoetry is an upscale, oceanfront, and all-inclusive resort located near the far end of Sac Bajo. It is the best luxury hotel on Isla Mujeres as well as the most expensive.
The 35 rooms are all ocean facing, and most suites have a balcony or patio with a Jacuzzi. The property has three pools, a gym, and a top-notch spa. While the beach in this area isn’t as nice as Playa Norte, it’s private and so much less crowded. And the northern Italian restaurant, Casa Rolandi, is one of the better high-end restaurants on the island and has a great view (you can make a reservation at the restaurant even if you aren’t a guest).
The downside to this property, is that because of the all-inclusive nature of it, the distant location from downtown, and great amenities, guests don’t always leave the resort enough. And this is unfortunate, because the island has so much to offer. But for those who are looking for privacy or a relaxing and romantic getaway, there’s no better place than Zoetry.
Alternative: Impression by Secrets
Location
Amenities
Dining
#2 Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres
Luxury All-Inclusive
Impression at a Glance
Pros
- Brand new luxury resort
- Features 7 restaurants and 5 bars
Cons
- Expensive
- They will try to sell you time shares
Check Prices
Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets is an all-inclusive, adults-only resort located on the South Island. This resort is brand new and is a much larger alternative to Zoetry.
The hotel offers a total of 125 luxurious suites, in various price tiers. All come with daytime butler service, 24-hour in-suite dining, and a mini bar refreshed twice daily. Dining is available at seven restaurants and top shelf spirits are served at five bars.
The resort is situated on a coastal cliff, offering unrivaled ocean views, making it an ideal spot for a tranquil escape.
Location
Amenities
Dining
#3 Hotel Beló
Mid Range All-Inclusive
Hotel Beló at a Glance
Pros
- Nice rooftop pool and bar, especially at sunset
- Modern rooms
Cons
- Atmosphere can be loud
- Dining is average
Check Prices
Hotel Belo offers a different vibe than Zoetry, and is an all-inclusive option at a much cheaper rate.
This is a trendy and upscale resort with modern rooms. You can enjoy the day in loungers around the pool or on the small beach. As with the other hotels in this area, the beach is ok, but not nearly as nice as Playa Norte.
The best part of this hotel might be the adults only rooftop that features a pool and bar. It also provides one of the best locations for sunset on the island.
The location can be considered good or bad for this area, depending on your personal preference. You will still need to take taxis or a golf cart to get to the busier north end of the island, but it sits next to several other hotels and beach bars so you have some entertainment options. But along with this also comes more noise, and day trippers from Cancun come in boats to the beach next door. The music can sometimes be loud, and this hotel even sometimes books itself out for adult themed private events.
Location
Amenities
Dining
Nomads Hostel & Beach Club
Budget Hostel
Nomads at a Glance
Pros
- Budget friendly hostel
- Dorm style or private rooms available
Cons
- Lively atmosphere that can be loud late into the night
- Located far from downtown
Check Prices
Nomads Hostel & Beach Club offers a unique experience that blends the budget accommodation of a hostel with the amenities of a beach club. It has a lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice for solo travelers and those on the younger side. Nomads offers both dorm style and private rooms.
Location
Amenities
Dining
Rental Homes / VRBO
If you are a large family or with a group, then you might want to consider rental homes on the island. Some book directly, or you might want to use VRBO. But I would be very leary of listings you find online or on Facebook and who want a deposit in advance through a money transfer. There have been many instances of scammers who post listings that aren’t theirs, take your money, and then you never hear from them again. If you aren’t sure about their legitimacy, I highly recommend you use a platform like VRBO for your booking.
While there are many rental homes on the island, these just some of the popular ones. Check VRBO for a more comprehensive rental list.
Casa De Jaguar: Four bedroom house with pool on the south side
Casa Sirena: Gigantic 8 bedroom house near downtown
Isla 33: Condo complex with units ranging from 1BR to the Penthouse.
Staying on Isla Mujeres FAQ
Should I do all Inclusive on Isla Mujeres?
This might be the most debated topic among frequent visitors and expats on the island. It is not an island of large resorts but rather a beach town where most people spend the days relaxing at the beach or pool and then wander the town at night, having dinner at the local restaurants, and listening to live music.
Thus, most people say to never do all inclusive in Isla Mujeres, because missing out on the local dining options in favor of mediocre resort food is missing out on what Isla is all about.
Then a smaller, but vocal portion says that they prefer AI because it’s convenient to get drinks and snacks at your hotel throughout the day, and they still go out for dinners. But even the people who like the all-inclusive still go eat out at restaurants. They are paying for the convenience, not because it will save them money. In fact, depending on your preferences, it’s possible to eat out every meal for cheaper than the AI costs.
So, if you want unlimited drinks at your same hotel every day, then feel free to go for the AI. But if you are the type to embrace exploring restaurants, bars, and other beach clubs during the day, then skip the AI.
What are the All-Inclusive Resorts on Isla Mujeres?
These are the hotels offering All-Inclusive stays:
- Zoëtry Villa Rolandi
- Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres
- Hotel Beló
- Mia Reef
- Privilege Aluxes (Offers the choice of All-Inclusive, but not required)
Are There Cheaper Hotels Near North Beach?
While I listed what I consider to be the best hotels on North Beach, there are many smaller and less expensive hotels there as well. While I have not stayed at any of these, I have heard that these are great for the money.
- Playa Arena: Right on North Beach
- Cabanas Maria del Mar: Simple rooms just off the beach, but their beach bar Buho’s is across the street directly on Playa Norte
- The Mermaid and the Pearl: Basic Bed & Breakfast in downtown
- Rocamar Hotel Panoramico: On the southern edge of downtown along the
- Villa Kiin: Basic hotel just off North Beach
There are also many other small hotel rooms above restaurants and scattered around downtown. They are all very basic, but they are cheap and they get you near North Beach. Don’t be afraid of these, you don’t want to spend your vacation in your hotel room anyway!
Is Isla Mujeres Safe?
Isla Muejres is safe. The downtown El Centro is very busy with tourists and filled with restaurants, bars, and shops so you will always be surrounded by people. And while the rest of the island isn’t quite so bustling, expats and tourists also stay in these areas and they are safe.
Is Isla Mujeres Walkable?
The north end of Isla Mujeres near North Beach is the downtown area and is packed with bars and restaurants. This area is very walkable. If you are staying in a hotel to the south along the western side, then that area is not super walkable. Depending on where you stay, there may be a couple restaurants within walking distance, but you will need to take a golf cart or taxi to go downtown.
How do I get from the Ferry to My Hotel?
You can walk to every hotel in this area from the ferry, though depending on how much luggage you have, you may want some assistance. In this case, I suggest you grab one of the guys with a bike carts (known as a Maleteros) and they will take your luggage over while you walk behind them. They work on tips, and I suggest you give them at least $5.
If you are staying downtown, most hotels are within a 12 minute walk. The one exception is Mia Reef which is a walk through downtown and then has a bridge leading to it. While I would still walk and use a Maletero, some people do take a taxi, which should cost around 100 pesos, which is a little over $5.
If you are staying anywhere south of downtown, then you will want to take a taxi. The taxi stand is just to the left of the ferry and you can’t miss it. The rate is 150 pesos to go to the southern areas, though they may try to charge you more. Always confirm the taxi fare before you get in. Tipping is appreciated.
Where are the Beaches in Isla Mujeres?
There are three main beach areas on Isla Mujeres. Playa Norte is the most popular and easily the nicest, but also can get quite busy and is located on the northern tip of the island. The sand is soft, the water is calm. Just around the corner facing southwest is Playa Centro. While it has a great sunset, the beach and water aren’t as nice and so you won’t see as many people here during the day. The third area with beaches is the western side of the island along Sac Bajo. Most of these beaches are in front of large hotels, and are ok.
