Isla Mujeres is a gem of an island in the Caribbean located just 8 miles from the tourist paradise of Cancun, Mexico. One of the most fun ways to explore this 3 mile long by 1 mile wide island is by golf cart.
Once you get to Isla Mujeres via the ferry, you will find several small shops on the main street with lines of golf carts outside. Cars can be rented by the hour or by the day. If you have the time, I would recommend renting by the day for $ 50 per car, because an hour really isn’t enough time to circumnavigate the island and include a few scenic stops along the way. Each car has capacity for 4 people and you must also provide a driver’s license per car for the duration of your rental.
First, I suggest you head south, past all the ferry docks on the only straight road, and continue on the quiet roads dotted with quaint Mexican residences. There are numerous roadside shops where you can stop for a snack. As you progress you will notice that you are ascending and in a short time you will reach a cliff with views of the Garrafón. Garrafón is a day in itself with snorkeling, zip lines and other attractions. From here, look across the ocean and see the great Cancun hotels, the cliffs above Garrafón make a great photo stop.
Continue and 5 minutes later you will arrive at South Point, which faces the Caribbean Sea towards Cuba. South Point is actually the highest part of the state of Quintana Roo and the easternmost point of Mexico. Here you will find numerous iguanas sunbathing and a lighthouse. South Point is also home to the statue of the goddess of motherhood, Ixchel.
Then continue on the road, ascending as you go. Now you are on the opposite side of the island, you will notice a great contrast between the quiet sandy beaches on the eastern side of the island you just visited and the rugged coastline with big waves on the western side. Also note the many elegant homes, mostly owned by wealthy expats that look out over the vast expanse of the Caribbean.
Follow the path to the left and pass through a small Mexican town, before rejoining the path you took and heading back towards your rental store. If you have time, continue past the rental store and visit North Beach. Here you will find coconut trees, a wide sandy beach, very safe waters for swimming and a multitude of beach bars. North Beach is a great place to relax while watching the fishing boats return home and it also offers some amazing sunsets.