This island was until recently a sleepy fishing village, but for the last decade or so, it has been slowly attracting visitors who are looking for a more authentic experience in this part of Mexico. Holbox began as an isolated fishing village and still maintains that vibe today despite being less than two hours from Cancún International Airport.
Mexico’s Hidden Treasure, Holbox Island
What should have been a short 2-hour trip with a 35 minute ferry ride from Cancun, turned out to be A Day in the Life on Holbox Island and a full-day odyssey and thanks to Lili’s perseverance, my patience (which is very short) and the great love for our niece Veronica, we reached this little piece of heaven in the Mexican Caribbean, the beautiful and spectacular Holbox Island; a hidden paradise in the Yucatan.
This island was until recently a sleepy fishing village, but for the last decade or so, it has been slowly attracting visitors who are looking for a more authentic experience in this part of Mexico. Holbox began as an isolated fishing village and still maintains that vibe today despite being less than two hours from Cancún International Airport.
The atmosphere on Holbox is laid back and unpretentious. In fact, CNN once referred to it as “Mexico’s best barefoot beach.” Yep, this place is special. Even if you never ventured out into the turquoise waters, you’d have a magnificent time.
A Guide to Holbox’s Beaches and Activities
Holbox has many different activities that one can do while on your visit, but to get the most out of your time, there are three things you must do:
1) Rent a bike and ride around the island.
When it comes to finding a way to get around the island, renting a bike is the best option. You’ll have access to the whole island and will be able to explore more of what Holbox has to offer. If you’re looking for an adventure or want to see some of Holbox’s most beautiful spots, look no further than renting a bike.
2) Visit Playa Punta Cocos.
Playa Punta Cocos is a beautiful and serene beach located only a couple of kilometers from the town. You can get there by bike or you can also walk, it’s about a 15-minute walk from the center of town. If you’re looking to relax in the sun with a drink in hand, there are plenty of spots to do that as well.
3)Take a Tour to see and snorkel the Giant Whale Sharks
If you’re looking for more adventure, try snorkeling alongside of the Whale Sharks. This is an organize tour, where you will be taken by a guide on a boat to see these magnificent and harmless creatures. The tour will take between two to three hours, but it’s well worth the time and money.
What to Eat in Holbox and Where to Find it.
Tourists from all over the world come to Holbox Island to enjoy its beautiful beaches and truly exotic nature. However, a tourist will not be able to fully experience this beauty without tasting the traditional Mexican cuisine that is served in many of its restaurants.
Holbox Island is a perfect destination for foodies as it offers a multitude of restaurants with different cuisines from all over the world. One such establishment is TacoQueto, has been serving traditional Mexican street tacos and offers an inviting atmosphere with excellent service.
Maiztro Holbox, Barquito Mawimbi Beach Bar and Restaurant and Mandarina Seaside Restaurant are just a couple of more restaurants that are worth the visit and taste of its typical Mexican and seafood dishes.
Holbox’s Amazing Nightlife Scene
Holbox’s nightlife scene is quite different from what you would find in the rest of Mexico, why? because Holbox night-life is not really there.
So leave your fancy clothes and your dancing shoes at home and instead have your Bermuda shorts handy and some comfortable flip-flops, as you will need these to truly relax on the sandy beach.
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