Only 8 miles from the tourist Mecca of Cancun, Mexico lies Isla Mujeres, a perfect gem of an island. Isla, as she is known to those familiar with her charms is only 3 miles long by a mile wide. This means that exploring the island is simple and one of the easiest ways to do that is via golf cart.
On arrival and once you’ve left the ferry dock you will notice several small rental stores along the high street that have lines of golf carts outside. You can rent cars by the hour or by day; I’d suggest you rent for the whole day or at least 2 or 3 hours to make the best of your trip. Prices are in the region of $50 for the day and each cart holds 4 people so it’s a relatively inexpensive way of viewing what Isla Mujeres has to offer, and all at your own pace. You will need to show a driving license for each cart you wish to rent.
To begin I would recommend you head south, along the high street. Passing the military base to your left and out past the marina along roads filled with butterflies and punctuated with quaint Mexican residences. Plenty of mini marts along the road mean you will never go thirsty. As you climb the gentle hill you’ll eventually find yourself at a cliff top overlooking the Garrafon Park. This spot is a fantastic place for a photo as you can see the 8 miles or so across the ocean to the mainland of Cancun and will notice the large hotels on the skyline.
Continue on and after a few minutes you will arrive at South Point which is not only the highest point in Quintana Roo it is also the most Eastern point of Mexico. Here you will find a lighthouse and, sunning themselves on the cliff edges, scores of iguanas some of which are up to 3 feet in length. South Point is also where you will find the statue of the Goddess of maternity, Ixchel.
Now it’s time to head back along the other side of the island, descending gently to sea level as you go. There’s a huge contrast on this Western side of the island where rugged, rocky beach and large waves replaces the calm tranquil waters and soft white sand of the East. You will see many houses with unique architecture here, mostly owned by rich expatriates that look out over the huge expanse of the Caribbean. There’s even a house that looks just like a conch shell!
As you follow the road to the left heading inland you will pass through a small Mexican village before turning right back onto the main road you first set out upon. If you still have some time then continue on past your rental place and spend some time at North Beach, a wide expanse of white sand with coconut palms for shade, calm shallow waters ideal for swimming and a selection of beach bars to quench your thirst. Sit back and watch the sun go down and enjoy one of Isla Mujeres famous sunsets.