Jam-packed resorts, shoulder-to-shoulder crowds in public beaches, and a growing sense of insecurity that wasn’t there 3 to 4 years ago.
You’ve heard the stories before: Cancun is far from being the stress-free vacay many still idealize.
That doesn’t mean the Mexican Caribbean as a whole should pay for the sins of its most famous hotspot.
Lackluster as the region may be at the moment, with a noticeable decrease in visitor numbers, there’s one smaller, more peaceful island escape nearby that is quietly stepping into the spotlight, and as a matter of fact, stealing some of its thunder.
A car-free haven only 2 hours by road from Cancun, Isla Holbox is swimming directly against the current.
Despite the regional fatigue, it has seen a 10% increase in hotel occupancy this year, and all of us at Travel Off Path can see why!
The Most Peaceful Island In The Mexican Caribbean
At a length of only 26 miles and an even less-impressive width of 1.2 miles at its widest point, Holbox looks unassuming to the odd observer at first, but as it turns out, it’s one of Mexico’s best islands for a truly laid-back tropical getaway.
Without, you know, the usual bachelor party crowds.
It is basically a quaint island with just enough development to keep things chill, where people go to reconnect with nature, slow it down a notch, and escape the hectic nightlife the Mexican Caribbean has become known for.
Picture white-sand beaches running for endless miles (well, as many miles as the compact landmass will permit), sandy streets where the only traffic is golf carts and bikes, and shallow swimming spots, no big waves.
Though there are a handful of five-star properties on the island, the overall vibe is beach hammocks and Bohemian barefoot luxury:
How Expensive Is Holbox?
Our go-to pick, Casa Las Tortugas, is one of Holbox’s mid-to-upper-range accommodation options.
A classic beach retreat, it features a no-frills beach bar, hammocks right by the ocean, and a surprisingly well-equipped spa (rooms start from $190-a-night).
For something a little more Boho-chic, Nomade Holbox is your port of call: adults-only, with a nature-inspired design, and only a few steps away from a beautiful palm-lined beach, it offers all the exclusivity Cancun escapees want ($500+ per night).
Hey, hey, hey, don’t close the tab just yet.
Yes, some hotels on Holbox can be pricey, if not pricier than Cancun’s, but the good thing about the island is that it caters to travelers of all budgets. You really don’t need to burn through your savings on an all-inclusive beachside stay to enjoy the island’s natural wonders:
NÁAY Boutique Hotel sits right on Punta Coco, one of the most beautiful beaches around, and prices average $130–150 per night. It’s way more affordable, and still stylish.
For the very budget-conscious young traveler, Che Holbox Hostel & Bar is a safe-enough option, with dorm beds starting from $20-a-night. It’s roughly a 15 min walk from Playa Holbox, the main beach, and a further 30 min walk to Punta Coco.
What To See In Holbox
Holbox only has one main settlement, which gringos have baptized Holbox Town.
It’s definitely worth checking out for its colorful street art, small art galleries, and family-owned cantinas dishing out all your Caribbean favorites, but Holbox’s true charm lies in the unspoiled nature:
Though most travelers pick out a sunbed in Punta Coco and barely move during their long weekend, the most stunning natural scenery in Holbox (if you’re asking us), is over in Punta Mosquito:
Shallow sandbanks frequented by elegant pink flamingos, warm waters, and palm-flanked shores that look like the perfect Mexican postcard.
From June to September, you can also swim with whale sharks, as Holbox is one of the world’s top spots for this particular activity. If you’re visiting in winter, however, it’s the perfect season for hitting the bioluminescent beaches at night.
They’re famous for their colorful plankton, which glows underwater on moonless nights. Shared night tours start from only $30 per person, and it’s a must-do experience.
For the adventurers among us, you’ll be thrilled to know Holbox is cut through with mangrove canals leading to hidden lagoons, and these can be easily explored by kayak.
You can also book boat tours visiting nearby uninhabited islets, where marine life thrives.
Is Holbox Mexico Safe To Visit?
The Mexican Caribbean is one of the safest destinations south of the border, as verified by the U.S. Department of State.
Cancun and its wider region remain at Level 2, which means Americans are not discouraged from visiting and must simply ‘exercise greater caution’ in certain situations, such as withdrawing money from an ATM, and being mindful of no-go zones.
In Holbox in particular, violent crime is extremely rare, and your main concern is primarily petty theft. This typically affects tourists who leave valuables unattended on publci beaches, or who aren’t particularly aware of their surroundings in crowded areas.
Regardless of where you travel in Mexico, you can always double-verify the latest up-to-date safety advice on our U.S. Travel Advisory Checker, available for free here.
The closest international airport to Holbox is Cancun International Airport (37 miles south), and if you’re not resorting to public transportation to get there (which we wouldn’t recommend anyway as it is quite slow, and may involve changes), booking a private transfer in advance is highly preferred.
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