The Ultimate Itinerary for 3 Days in Isla Mujeres
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links. We only recommend products that we truly feel will bring value to our audience. If you click on a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions go towards improving our blog and creating a better experience for you. We really appreciate your support!
If you’ve been to Mexico before but you’re looking for a different experience then spending 3 days in Isla Mujeres is a perfect way to do it!
From golden sandy beaches, island vibes and golf-cart rides, you will soon find that life on this island is very simple and honestly that is the best way! If you’re looking for a relaxing break away then Isla Mujeres is an incredible island for just that.
However, don’t underestimate that it is just a beach holiday, there are plenty of adventure activities that awaits too. Being its own island, you will be unsurprised to learn that a lot of these activities are water-based. You can tick off lots of items from your bucket list including swimming with whale sharks, scuba diving and seeing the underwater museum.
There are other land based activities that await you too but to really make the most of Isla Mujeres, you will want to try and be on the much as possible.
3 Days in Isla Mujeres Quick Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive into Isla Mujeres by Ferry
Rent a golf cart & take a tour of the island
Lunch at North Garden
Relax on Playa Norte Beach
Sunset Catamaran Tour
Dinner at Muelle 7
Drinks at Stingray
Day 2
Wake up early for snorkelling with the whale sharks
Explore Isla Mujeres old town
Dinner at Mama Rosa
Live music at El Patio
Day 3
Punta Sur for sunrise
Scuba Diving Tour or Snorkelling the Underwater Museum
Wander around the street art
Dinner at Isla Burger
Wander down the Marina
Drinks at Tiny Gecko Bar
How Long to Spend in Isla Mujeres
The answer to this question really is how long is a piece of string? If you’re not certain how long you want to spend in Isla Mujeres then you may need to assess what you’re looking for when you visit the island.
If you’re the type of traveller that is looking for plenty of sightseeing, new spots every day then you may only want to spend a few days in Isla Mujeres.
Th truth is that it is a very small island and therefore doesn’t not have many tourist attractions. Most of the activities from Isla Mujeres involves the ocean and if you’re a scuba diver or a beach babe then you will find yourself in paradise.
When Amy went to visit Isla Mujeres, she originally planned to stay for 5 days. 2 weeks went by and she was still on the island then returned for an additional week a few months later. Part of the reason for this is that she absolutely loved diving and seeing the different dive spots in Isla Mujeres so every day was different and she got to relax in the process.
If you’re looking to do some scuba diving in Isla Mujeres then we would recommend a minimum of 5-7 days on the island. This gives you enough time to explore the land of the island but also go on a few different diving trips as well as go swimming with whale sharks.
For anyone that found Cancun too chaotic and not peaceful enough, you may also want to spend between 5-7 days to take time to unwind and appreciate the beauty and serenity of the island.
However, if heavy sightseeing is your game then even 2 days in Isla Mujeres will be enough for you!
Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres for 3 Nights
After spending a lot of time on the island, it is save to say that Amy has got to try many different types of accommodation on the island or has known someone else that has.
Whether you’re looking for a budget hostel to make new friends and soak up the island life, a mid-range hotel for somewhere to rest after a long-day scuba diving or a luxury retreat in Isla Mujeres, there is something for everyone on the island.
Below, we have listed 3 of Amy’s personal recommendations of places to stay in Isla Mujeres depending on how much money you want to spend and what you want to do whilst you’re visiting the island.
Budget Option: Selina Hostel
Whilst Amy didn’t stay in any hostels whilst she was in Isla Mujers due to wanting a private space to rest after scuba diving, she has had a lot of friends stay in this hostel in Isla Mujeres.
Out of all the hostels on the island, it is safe to say that this is one of the better ones. She had a few friends that stayed at a couple of the other hostels on the island and they had very mixed reviews to say the least!
Selina hostels are quite a large brand so you can assume that they certainly know what they’re doing when it comes to shared accommodation.
Whether you’re travelling solo in Mexico or you just want to make some new friends along the way and stay in a private room, the Selina is a perfect social hub.
What we like about hostels is that you really do have the choice as to whether you’d like to socialise or have some time to yourself and Selina is no different.
Mid-Range Option: Sea Hawk Suites
Amy spent the first couple of weeks in Isla Mujeres at this hotel and it was a wonderful spot to stay especially if you’re planning to do some diving in Isla Mujeres. Sometimes the hotel will have offers available where if you book a diving package or swimming with whale sharks then they will reduce the cost of your room. This alone was enough to attract Amy to stay here and it was certainly a very good choice.
This family-owned suites and dive shop is a perfect retreat to enjoy some peace and quiet and plenty of rest! Just a short stroll from the popular Playa Norte, you won’t have far to go when you stumble back to your room from the beach for a siesta.
Just across the road is the North Garden where you can enjoy a delicious lunch, so delicious in fact that we’ve also included it within the full 3-day Isla Mujeres itinerary.
Luxury Option: Mia Reef
Sitting on it’s own private complex, Mia Reef is a great hotel to take a break from it all and enjoy your own little bubble. If you’re looking for a slice of paradise then this hotel complex is where you will want to stay.
Whilst there are lots of different luxury options available on the island, this is one of our top picks for you to stay purely because how much it has to offer.
Whether you’re looking to take part in many different water-based activities, indulge in the all-inclusive food, rejuvenate with the incredible spa or rest by the pool, you will leave this hotel complex full-relaxed.
3 Days in Isla Mujeres Full Itinerary
Spending 3 days in Isla Mujeres is an absolute haven and you will be able to tick off a lot of the main activities within this period of time. However, as we mentioned, if you’re looking to do some scuba diving then you may want to consider extending your stay.
You’ve had a quick glimpse into our 3 day itinerary for Isla Mujeres and below you will find more information about each of the activities, where you can book any excursions and tips for enjoying everything the island has to offer.
Day 1
Arrive into Isla Mujeres by Ferry
The first step of your 3-day Isla Mujeres itinerary is actually getting to Isla Mujeres. It is really easy to get to the island from Cancun but if it is your first time visiting then you may not be certain on how to get there.
Luckily for you, we have a nifty guide on all the different ways to get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun and a ferry timetable so that it is much easier for you to travel.
However, for anyone that doesn’t have time to read the full guide and the different ferry points, the easiest ferry station is Puerto Juarez. If you’ve just arrived into Cancun airport then you can easily arrange for a taxi to take you straight to the port.
From here, you will be able to get on the Ultramar ferry which will take you approximately 30 minutes to arrive on the island. It is a quick journey and you’ll typically have a Mariachi band playing on the top deck to pass the time.
Rent a golf cart & take a tour of the island
As long as you’re not too tired from your full journey, we would recommend dropping off your bags at your chosen hotel in Isla Mujeres before venturing out on the most popular method of transportation on the island; a golf cart.
There are many different companies that will hire out the golf carts so you won’t be in short supply of where to get them. If you’re visiting during the peak season in Isla Mujeres though then you may want to consider booking this in advance.
Isla Mujeres is a very small island so you will be able to drive all over the island in no time. We always recommend doing this as your first activity just because it helps you get to grips with where everything is on the island and get your bearings.
We won’t give you a recommended route for this drive as the purpose is for you to learn your way around the island and see what beautiful hidden spots you can stumble upon along the way!
Lunch at North Garden
Before heading back to your hotel, make sure that you grab a bite to eat at North Garden before they close. This is a really popular food spot on the island and somewhere that you shouldn’t miss!
You will find that a lot of locals and tourists alike will enjoy breakfast and lunch here. The staff are really friendly, welcoming and of course the food is absolutely delicious!
Relax on Playa Norte Beach
Less than a 2 minute walk from North Garden you will be right on the infamous Playa Norte Beach in Isla Mujeres. This is the best and most popular beach on the island and for good reason.
Dotted along the beach there are plenty of different beach clubs to relax, enjoy a few drinks or get some snacks. Amy’s personal favourite beach club was the Green Demon which is located right next to the volleyball net.
On the beach, if you would like a sunbed then this is something that you will need to pay for. There is a small section of the beach (known by the locals as the 420 beach) where you can just lie on a towel on the sand without a lounger.
Most of the Isla Mujeres day trips tend to come into this area of the beach because it really is such a beautiful area on the island!
Spend the rest of your afternoon relaxing on Playa Norte, going for a swim in the stunning crystal ocean and bask in the sun.
Sunset Catamaran Tour
Next we would highly recommend joining one of the sunset catamaran tours so that you can see the island from a unique perspective.
In Amy’s opinion, this was one of the best sunset excursions that she has ever been on. The way the sun sets over the island is truly out of this world.
Depending on which sunset tour you book, snacks and drinks are usually provided. When Amy went on the sunset cruise she got to have fresh ceviche on the boat with a few beers. It was an ultimate way to watch the day turn into night and a truly magical experience.
Dinner at Mamma Rosa
After a big day of exploring and travelling, you will want to head into Isla Mujeres’ old town for dinner so that you don’t have to venture too far!
Mamma Rosa is a cute Italian Trattoria within the old town and their dishes are not only yummy but so beautifully presented as well that it’s perfect for any of those capturing Instagram posts that you’re looking for!
When Amy went to this restaurant, she had their seafood risotto and it was absolutely delicious so we would recommend this or any of their pasta dishes for when you go to visit!
Drinks at Stingray
Stingray is a funny little place where the drinks flow easily, everyone is dancing, laughing and just having a general good time. Whether you’re travelling alone to Mexico, travelling as a couple or a group of friends, you are bound to have a wonderful time at Stingray.
One of their specialities is the karaoke machine so don’t be afraid to get up and sing your heart out! We had so much fun here and everyone was merry and happy! It actually reminded Amy of having a few drinks at a pub on Christmas Eve and feeling the jolly spirits in the air!
There are also swing seats outside the front of the bar which you will see quite commonly at Mexican bars in the Yucatan area so you can get those Instagram snaps!
If you didn’t have time to make it to Mamma Rosa or Italian food isn’t really your thing then Stingray also offers food options for you too!
Day 2
Hopefully you didn’t party too hard at Stingray last night because on your second day in Isla Mujeres, you will want to be up early to make the most of your day!
Snorkelling with the whale sharks
In the morning, head to the meeting point for your snorkelling with the whale sharks tour. This is truly a bucket list experience and something that we would recommend to any visit to Isla Mujeres!
There are lots of different snorkelling with whale sharks tours available on the island so if you’ve not booked your tour yet then we’ve listed some of our recommended tours below for you.
With most of these tours, you will be taken out on the boat and depending on how many people are on
Explore Isla Mujeres old town
Isla Mujeres old town has so much to offer that you will want to take some time wandering around and experiencing the beauty of the town. The cobble-stoned streets and vibrant atmosphere are a couple of the reasons why this town will steal your heart!
Take the time to appreciate the old town and have a little look through some of the shops and small markets. We’ve not included a set itinerary for this section because we think it is best for you to see where your feet take you in the old town and let yourself freely explore.
Dinner at Muelle 7
Before heading out to dinner, you may want to go back to your room and freshen up as this is a truly lovely restaurant so you’ll want to be a little more dressy than normal for this place.
Imagine sitting on a deck overlooking the water, watching the sunset with some delicious seafood and drinks in front of you! This is an amazing restaurant and one of Amy’s favourites by far just because the food is so fresh and tasty!
Live music at El Patio
Another great spot that you need to visit on the island is El Patio. Most nights they have live music and you can sit in their rooftop restaurant and enjoy the beautiful music.
If you’re travelling as a couple to Isla Mujeres then this is definitely one of the most romantic things to do on the island. This is a great way to end your evening with some stunning music and a few drinks.
Day 3
Spend your last day in Isla Mujeres by getting to know the culture of the island a little more and see some unique sights!
Scuba Diving Tour or Snorkelling the Underwater Museum
Head out early in the morning to go on either a scuba diving or snorkelling tour of the underwater museum (MUSA). If you are able to do so then scuba diving would be the best way to see the incredible museum as you can get much closer to the attractions.
However, if you’re not trained to scuba dive then snorkelling is also a great way to see MUSA. The attractions in this museum are really unique and truly a bucket list adventure.
There are quite a few different areas to the museum so there are a lot of different things to see. Not to mention the amount of marine life that you will get to see along the way.
Wander around the street art
Around the Yucatan area, there is a lot of beautiful street art for you to enjoy and Isla Mujeres is no different. There are so many different stunning works of art across the island that you absolutely need to take yourself on a self-guided tour to see a lot of the beautiful art.
If you want to see as many works of art as possible then it might be worth considering hiring a golf cart again to swing by all the different beautiful spots!
One of the things we love the most about these street murals is that they are also a homage to the marine life and that we should protect the animals which we think is beautiful!
You can find a map of some of the murals across the island made by PangeaSea here!
Dinner at Isla Burger
For food that you can sink your teeth into, Isla Burger is the place to go! The burgers are absolutely delicious here and you will not be disappointed!
We recommend reserving a table before visiting so that you can ensure that you’re going to get a table as it is only a small restaurant.
Wander down the Marina
Spend your final evening wandering down the marina in Isla Mujeres and catch some more of the sights. When Amy last wandered down the marina, she was lucky enough to see a turtle laying an egg on the beach.
This is a great activity to walk off some of the delicious food you’ve just eaten before you head off for some drinks.
Drinks at Tiny Gecko Bar
Finish your last night in Isla Mujeres by enjoying some drinks at the Tiny Gecko Bar. This is a great place to sit and people-watch whilst enjoying some music and tasty drinks!
Tours in Isla Mujeres for 3 Days
If you’ve visited Isla Mujeres before or some of the tours and excursions are not quite what you’re looking for then we’ve got some different tour options available below for you.
Most of these tours are things that Amy done whilst she was on Isla Mujeres as well and all of which she would recommend as great things to do in Isla Mujeres.
Swimming with Whale Sharks
Swimming with Whale Sharks is truly one of the ultimate bucket list things to do in Isla Mujeres and we recommend this to anyone visiting the island.
Best Whale Shark Tours in Isla Mujeres
- Whale Shark Tour Isla Mujeres
- Snorkelling with Whale Sharks – Isla Mujeres
- Exciting Swim with Whale Sharks Private VIP Tour
Renting a Golf Cart
Travelling around on golf carts is the best way to get around the island and one of the best ways to see Isla Mujeres is by renting a golf cart and taking yourself on a self-guided tour.
MUSA Underwater Museum
You can visit the underwater museum from both Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The sights that you get to see from Cancun and Isla Mujeres really differ because the museum stretches quite far.
Best Isla Mujeres MUSA Tours Here
- Snorkel Tour at MUSA & Manchones Reef
- Private MUSA Snorkelling Experience at Isla Mujeres & Cancun
- Isla Mujeres Snorkelling Adventure at the Underwater Museum
Scuba Diving Excursions
Isla Mujeres has so many amazing dive sites and this is an ultimate activity to do whilst you’re on the island. Amy had the chance to do her PADI scuba diving course and this was one of the best decisions she made. Whether you’re planning to learn to scuba dive or you’re already qualified, there are plenty of diving options available.
Best Scuba Diving Excursions in Isla Mujeres
- PADI Discover Scuba Diving for Divers without Certification
- Scuba Diver Certification Course
- PADI Open Water Diver Course
- 2-Tank Dives MUSA and Manchones Reef (Certified Divers)
- 2-Tank Wreck & Drift Reef Dives
- 2-Tank Wreck & Drift Reef Dives
Boat Tours
When you’re on Isla Mujeres, you really need to adapt to island life and going on boat tours is one of the most exciting things to do whilst you’re on the island.
Whether you’re looking for a sunset boat cruise or just want to explore the island we’ve popped some great recommendations below for you to check out!
Best Boat Tours from Isla Mujeres
- Tour Isla Mujeres Excursion in Collective Transparent Boat
- Local Fishing & Snorkelling Tour in Isla Mujeres
- Isla Mujeres Private Catamaran Tour
Isla Contoy
Another exciting excursion from Isla Mujeres is to take a trip to Isla Contoy. Imagine beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear water and plenty of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Remember that if you do go to Isla Contoy then you will be unable to wear suncream. This is put in place to protect the wildlife in the area as it can be very harmful to them so make sure to pack a rashguard instead so you can protect yourself too.
Plan Your 3 Days in Isla Mujeres Now!
In summary, this is an incredible island and spending 3 days in Isla Mujeres is a great amount of time to spend there. This 3 day Isla Mujeres itinerary will enable you to experience some of the best things that the island has to offer.
This itinerary is completely flexible so if you’ve visited Isla Mujeres before and already done some of the activities on this itinerary or they’re just not what you’re looking for then you can absolutely swap it out with some of the additional tours that we recommended.
If you have the time then we would recommend spending longer on Isla Mujeres and completing your diving course as it is the ultimate place to master a new skill!
Isla Mujeres Resources
- 2 Days in Isla Mujeres
- Isla Mujeres Diving
- How to Get to Isla Mujeres
- 17 Things to be Careful of in Isla Mujeres
- Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting?
- Luxury Hotels in Isla Mujeres
- What to do on Isla Mujeres
- Best Time to Visit Isla Mujeres
- Best Time to See Whale Sharks in Isla Mujeres
Cancun Resources
- Day Tours from Cancun
- Is Cancun Worth Visiting?
- Ziplining in Cancun
- 3 Day Cancun Itinerary
- Guide to Chichen Iza
