Are you planning to visit Holbox Island? That’s PERFECT! Because you will undoubtedly love its shallow paradisiacal beaches, its sandy streets, its beachy lifestyle, the daytime tranquility, the star-filled night sky, and of course, the wave of fun at its bars, hostels, and hotels.
But hold on, cowboy! Before you visit Holbox Island, you need to know a few things you might not be aware of yet. So we’ve created this Holbox travel guide, in which we will tell you everything you need to know to visit this paradisiacal place in the Mexican Caribbean. So let’s get straight to it.
Holbox Travel Guide
Holbox is an island that you must know, and to ensure the trip is not only worthwhile but you are also prepared for absolutely everything, we have created this travel guide. A Holbox Travel Guide where we will tell you about the transportation options available to get to the island, we’ll talk about the ferry, accommodations, restaurants, food, and everything necessary to make your visit to the Island an unforgettable experience and, of course, to ensure you don’t spend a single peso more than necessary.
Where is Holbox Island located?
The paradisiacal island of Holbox is located northwest of the city of Cancún and is part of the municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas in the state of Quintana Roo. This island as such is not part of the Riviera Maya, and the distance between Cancún and Holbox Island is 147 km.
How to get to Holbox Island?
Holbox Island is not located near the city of Cancún, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or the Riviera Maya in general. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get there.
In fact, depending on where you are, you can take a private transfer service, a shared transfer, an ADO bus, or even take your own car. If you want to learn more in depth about how to get to Holbox, click here.
But something very interesting about all this is that no matter how “you decide to go to Holbox Island”, you first have to reach the Town of Chiquilá.
Chiquilá is a small fishing village that has seen its exponential economic growth precisely because of Holbox Island, since essentially: You need to take a ferry to get to the Island, and of course, take a ferry to leave it.
This ferry can be taken from the port of Chiquilá, and this port is the destination where all private transfer companies, ADO buses, and private cars absolutely must arrive.
There is no other way or alternative to get to Holbox Island: You cannot arrive by boat or yacht from Cancún or the Riviera Maya, you also cannot get to the Island by private flights since it does not have an airport, and **you cannot bring cars onto the island either**.
I can’t take a car to Holbox Island? So, can’t I get to the island with my own car or a rental one? Well, essentially no. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get to the town of Chiquilá in your own car or a rental one.
In fact, the town of Chiquilá has several private parking lots. So you can leave your car here for a few hours or even a few days.
- If you want to know more about private parking in Chiquilá, click here.
What is the cost and schedule of the Ferry to Holbox?
The last leg to get to Holbox Island has to be done via a sea journey, and to our great fortune: There are two ferry companies on the island. These two companies are known as Holbox Express and 9 Hermanos.
These two companies have specific schedules, and the first departure to cross from the port of Chiquilá to Holbox is at 5:00 AM, and the last departure is at 8:30 PM.
The cost of the trip for adults in either company is 220.00 MXN, and the cost for children is 180.00 MXN.
- If you want to learn more about the ferry to Holbox, including schedules and prices, click here.
How to get around within Holbox?
The really complicated part is getting to the town of Chiquilá or, after that, taking the ferry to get to Holbox Island. So congratulations! You made it! And now… How do I get to my hotel?
Well, now that you are on the island, you have the option to walk about 15 minutes to reach the center of Holbox, and of course, from there ask for directions to get to your hotel. Or, you can look for a place with available rooms to stay.
The other option is to take “a taxi” to get to your hotel… WAIT, HOLD ON. But didn’t you say there are no cars on the Island? That’s right! There are no cars on Holbox Island, but there are golf carts, and the golf carts function as “Taxis.”
Of course, the taxi is just one of the many ways you have to get around in Holbox, and we really recommend it as the “first means of transportation” upon arriving on the island.
Why? Because this way, the taxi will take you to your hotel, and once you’re settled in, you can go out to explore the island.
- Rent a Golf Cart
- Rent a bicycle.
The rental of a golf cart can cost around $140.00 USD for 24 hours, $115.00 USD for 12 hours, and $75.00 USD for 6 hours. We really advise you to rent it for 12 hours and take advantage of seeing even the bioluminescence.
On the other hand, you can also rent a bicycle, which costs between $10.00 USD and $15.00 USD for 24 hours. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can be on foot, and because the island is undoubtedly beautiful. Lastly, we only advise you to take a taxi when you arrive at the Holbox port to go to your hotel, and from your hotel to the port on the day you leave.
Where to stay in Holbox?
Generally, Holbox Island is surrounded by many accommodations, some of them are 5-star hotels, others 4-star, others 3-star, and so on down to campsites.
And before you get your expectations too high, we have to tell you that hotels in Holbox have a maximum of 3 floors, their appearance is mainly minimalist, simple, and some of them have a jungle vibe.
On the other hand, we also have to tell you that there are very, very few hotels that operate on an all-inclusive concept. Although honestly, in a place like Holbox Island, this type of hotel won’t be necessary. Continuing with our island visit guide, we present you a list of hotels by classification that might interest you.
Booking.comWant a really good deal? Below we leave you our Booking.com widget so you can see the offers and promotions for hotels to visit Holbox.
All-inclusive Hotel in Holbox
Are there all-inclusive hotels in Holbox? Yes, there are several all-inclusive accommodations in Holbox. However, to be honest, we believe your trip to Holbox should focus on going out and exploring the island. Therefore, we don’t think the all-inclusive options are particularly attractive, beyond offering basic amenities like breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Remember that the purpose of this travel guide is to help you make informed decisions about how to enjoy your vacation on the island. That’s why, below, we will present you with some of the most popular all-inclusive hotel options on the island.
- Villas HM Paraíso del Mar: This hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including studios, suites, and villas. All units have air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV. The hotel also has two outdoor pools, a sushi bar, and a DJ.
- Villas HM Palapas del Mar: This hotel is similar to Villas HM Paraíso del Mar but offers a more exclusive environment. The units are larger and more luxurious, and the hotel has a wider range of services, including a spa, a gym, and a gourmet restaurant.
- Hotel Siesta Holbox: This hotel is a good option for those looking for a more affordable all-inclusive accommodation. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the hotel has an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.
- Hotel Casa Bárbara Holbox: This hotel is a boutique hotel with only 12 rooms. The rooms are elegant and decorated in a contemporary Mexican style. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.
Adults-only Hotels
Do you want to visit Holbox Island as a couple? Whether you travel with your wife, girlfriend, crush, or just for the experience. The island has some adults-only accommodations. Ideal places for you and your companion, where there will be no children around and you can enjoy pleasant moments. Below we present some of them.
- Aldea Kuká
- El Corazón Boutique Hotel
- Villa Frente al Mar La Puerta Azul
- Kai Hotel Boutique
- Soho Boutique Holbox
- La Casa del Alux
- Hotel Para Ti
- Hotel Punta Caliza
- Casa Muuch Holbox
- Beachfront Hotel La Palapa
- Tierra del Mar Hotel
- Eco Cabañas Laak Holbox
5-Star Hotels
Holbox Island has some 5-star hotels that will undoubtedly be the perfect complement to make your vacation more than incredible: They will be totally unforgettable. Do you want to know some of these hotels? Say no more.
- My blue hotel
- Aldea Kuká Solo Adultos
- Nomade Holbox
- Hotel Boutique Naj Casa Holbox
- Hotel Villas Flamingos
- Margaritaville
- Mystique Holbox
- Anicca Aldea
- Villas Ixchel
4-Star Hotels
Your trip to Holbox can be completed in a 4-star accommodation! The island not only has honeymoon hotels in Holbox Island, 5-star and budget hotels. It also has 4-star hotels, and undoubtedly a perfect balance is created for all travelers looking not to spend too much on their trips to Holbox but not lose the glamour of their rest hours. Below we present some of them.
- Palapas del Sol
- Amaite Beach Hotel
- Hotel El Pueblito
- Villas Caracol
- Hotel Villas Tiburón
- Blue Holbox
- Ensueño Holbox & Beach Club
- Hotel Arena
- Villas HM Palapas del Mar
- El Corazón Boutique Hotel
- Hotel Mittoz Holbox
- Villas el Encanto Holbox
- Holbox by Xaloc
- Black flamingo
Other Accommodations
In addition to luxurious adults-only hotels, all-inclusive options, and 4 and 5-star stays, Holbox offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Among these more accessible and uniquely charming alternatives are 3-star hotels, budget hotels, campsites, and cabins. These options offer a different way to experience the island, allowing visitors a closer immersion with the nature and local culture of this Caribbean paradise.
3-Star Hotels: These hotels are an ideal option for those looking for comfort without excess. They are often located in prime locations, allowing easy access to Holbox’s beaches and main attractions. With essential services like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a pool, they ensure a pleasant stay at a reasonable price.
Budget Hotels: For travelers on a tight budget, budget hotels in Holbox are a blessing. Although more basic in services and amenities, many of these accommodations retain a rustic charm and offer a warm and cozy atmosphere. They are the perfect choice for backpackers and young travelers who prioritize exploration and adventure over luxury.
Camping: For nature lovers and adventurers, camping is a unique way to experience Holbox. The island has designated camping areas where you can enjoy the stellar beauty of the night sky and wake up to the sound of the waves. It is an authentic experience that connects visitors deeply and meaningfully with the natural surroundings.
Cabins: Offering a perfect balance between contact with nature and comfort, cabins in Holbox are ideal for those seeking a more intimate and private experience. Built with local materials and situated in tranquil settings, cabins allow guests to enjoy the serenity of the island with basic comforts, often including access to private beaches.
Each of these accommodation options in Holbox has its own charm and advantages, allowing visitors to choose according to their preferences and budget. Whether you’re looking for the simplicity of a budget hotel, the adventure of camping, the comfort of a 3-star hotel, or the tranquility of a cabin, Holbox has something special for you.
Where to eat in Holbox?
If it’s about eating, on the island you really won’t have a problem with that, as the island has several restaurants and food establishments. Some specialize in seafood, others in typical Mexican food, and some in Italian, French, and American cuisine. So you really won’t have a problem with that.
Although it is necessary to mention that preferably you should first “ask the price” or request the menu before entering, because the reality is that some restaurants do tend to have very high costs.
However, we leave you our top 10 list of places we recommend you try.
- El Crustaceo Kascarudo Holbox
- Las Panchas
- El Chapulim Holbox
- Maiztro
- Arte Sano
- Restaurante Viva Zapata
- Painapol
- Rosa Mexicano
- Pizzeria La Pinsa
- El Sabor de las Nubes
What to do in Holbox?
The list of things you can do in Holbox is very extensive, and among them we have visiting Isla Pájaros, visiting Punta Mosquito, getting to know the Yalahau Lagoon, admiring the murals, taking a bioluminescence tour, taking a whale shark swimming tour, horseback riding, exploring the island by golf cart or bicycle, among other activities.
What to do at night in Holbox?
You might be wondering if the island has “activities” to do at night, and the answer is a resounding yes. Holbox Island has nighttime activities, among which we find the bioluminescence tour, which consists of going to one of the island’s most remote beaches, where the light from the center is not visible and, as a result, you can “appreciate the luminous effect” of the water when coming into contact with it.
Another activity you can do is go dancing, as many hostels have their “Caribbean night” where, to the rhythm of Latin music, you can dance until dawn. Another activity is simply to settle on the sand and enjoy the starry sky of the Island.
NOTE: It is necessary to mention that the island’s mini-supermarket, where you can buy alcoholic beverages, closes starting at 12:00 am.
How much does it cost to visit Holbox?
To visit Holbox, a paradisiacal island in the Mexican Caribbean, costs can vary significantly depending on your accommodation, transportation, food, and activity preferences. Here we present an estimate of the costs, from the most economical option to a luxury experience, based on a 3-day, 2-night trip.
The lowest cost to visit Holbox could start from approximately $6.75 USD, considering camping or budget cabin accommodations, public transportation from Cancún (including bus and ferry), meals at modest places, and free or low-cost activities like beach walks and enjoying the natural landscapes.
On the other hand, the maximum cost for a luxury experience in Holbox could go up to approximately $77.50 USD, including accommodation in a 5-star all-inclusive hotel, private transfer from Cancún, gourmet meals at the island’s best restaurants, and exclusive private tours, such as swimming with whale sharks (in season) or guided visits to protected natural areas.
These estimates are a guide to help you plan your trip to Holbox, keeping in mind that prices may vary depending on the season, availability, and your personal preferences. Below, we present a detailed table with the estimated costs for each aspect of your trip to Holbox, which will give you a better idea of how to budget for your visit to this beautiful destination.
| Category | Estimated Cost (per day/person in USD*) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | $150.00 | Depending on the starting point to Holbox. |
| Shared Transfer | $25.00 | Depending on the starting point to Holbox. |
| ADO Bus | $25.00 | From Cancún to Chiquilá, then take ferry. |
| Ferry | $25.00 | Cost per journey. |
| 5-Star Accommodation | $90.00 | Price per night, can vary greatly by season. |
| Budget Accommodation | $42.50 | Includes 3-star hotels, cabins. |
| Camping | $7.50 | Per person, depending on facilities. |
| Food | $12.50 | From street food to mid-range restaurants. |
| Tours | $20.00 | Depending on the activity (snorkeling, kayaking, etc.). |
*USD conversions based on an approximate exchange rate of 20 MXN = 1 USD.
Important Notes:
- Private transfer prices can vary greatly depending on the service and distance. Assumes service from Cancún airport to Chiquilá, followed by the ferry to Holbox.
- The ADO bus is a more economical option to get to Chiquilá, from where you take the ferry to Holbox.
- Accommodation can vary greatly in price depending on category, location, and season. It is recommended to book in advance.
- Food and tours also vary in price depending on type and quality. The estimate allows for a range of options from more economical to moderate.
Example of Estimated Total Cost for a 3-Day Trip per Person:
- Transfer (Average of Bus + Ferry round trip): **$100.00 USD** (assuming 2000 MXN)
- Accommodation (Budget, 3 nights): **$127.50 USD** (assuming 2550 MXN)
- Food (3 days): **$37.50 USD** (assuming 750 MXN)
- Tours (1 average tour): **$20.00 USD** (assuming 400 MXN)
- Estimated Total: **$285.00 USD** (approximately 5700 MXN)
This is just an example based on budget accommodation and moderate activities. The total cost can increase significantly if you choose 5-star accommodation and more activities/tours. Remember that these prices are estimates and may vary.