Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres (the Island of Women) is only 8 miles across the Cancun bay. It is a small flat island, only 5 miles long and about half a mile wide. You will find it more tranquil than Cancun, and I recommend spending here a day or two for relaxation.Isla Mujeres ferry
Getting to Isla Mujeres is easy. There are two ports at Cancun - Gran Puerto Cancun and Puerto Juarez - where you can take a fast boat to the island (15 minutes, 35 pesos). Another option is take a tourist boat (35 minutes) from Cancun hotel zone. If you travel by car, use the car ferry service at Punta Sam (45 minutes), a few miles north of Puerto Juarez.Accommodations - Isla Mujeres Hotels
If you plan on staying in Isla Mujeres for a few days, book your hotel in advance, because there aren't many of them on the island.Things to do in Isla Mujeres
Relax at the beach! It's the same beautiful white sand beach as Cancun's, only quieter and with much more tranquil atmosphere. I enjoyed Playa Norte the most.
Water activities - Are not as versatile as Cacnun's. In my opinion, you should better do your favorite water sports in Cancun. One exception is the wonderful coral reefs of El Garrafon Park, where you can do underwater diving or just snorkeling.
Land activities - Rent a bike (they have funny-looking tricycles for rent, that can carry two persons) or a motorbike for a few hours and explore the little island.
Visit the Turtle Farm (Entrance fee is 30 pesos), where you can see sea turtles of various sizes, including a few giants.
Go to Punta Sur - the tip of the south end of the island - where there is a small Mayan temple, and next to it there is a lighthouse. Climb to the top (you need to tip the guard) and enjoy the view of Isla Mujeres.