From luxury eco-lodges and beachfront villas to funky hostels and hammocks on the sand – figure out where to stay in Isla Holbox with this accommodation guide to suit all budgets.
With turquoise water, beautiful beaches, and plenty to see and do, Mexico is one of my top recommendations for a relaxing holiday.
However, as more and more tourists head there each year, it’s becoming harder to find special spots away from the crowds. My top tip? Slow down the pace and spend a few days on the island of Holbox – a fun and bohemian destination, which hasn’t lost its charm.
If you’re wondering how to get to Isla Holbox, be sure to check out my travel tips, as well as reading my enormous Isla Holbox travel guide, which is packed full of the best things to do, places to visit and restaurant suggestions.
Isla Holbox (pronounced holbosh / holbash) is car-free (although there are golf carts and bikes to get around), and wifi speeds are pretty slow. As a result, it’s an ideal spot for a digital detox – leave the laptop behind and spend your days sipping cocktails on the beach or exploring the nature reserve. Yum Balam is home to abundant birdlife, including vibrant pink flamingos and pelicans. Dolphins, turtles, and even whale sharks regularly visit the waters around the island.
To ensure you make the most of your stay, it’s worth doing a little research before on where to stay in Isla Holbox. Although the island is somewhat sleepy compared to the popular destinations of Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, there’s no shortage of Holbox hotels and accommodation options to suit every budget.
Happily, I’ve done the hard work for you! If you’re finding it tricky to decide where to stay in Isla Holbox, use this handy hotel review guide and hopefully you’ll find the perfect accommodation for your trip.
Where To Stay in Isla Holbox
Contents
Luxury Hotels in Isla Holbox
Casa Sandra
There’s no shortage of luxury hotels in Holbox, but at Casa Sandra, Cuban artist Sandra Pérez Lozano has created a rare jewel, crammed to the brim with unique, eye-catching works of art.
Each piece of furniture and decoration is carefully sourced from local Yucatan artists and most are made from natural materials. This gives the hotel a rustic feel, but don’t worry – Casa Sandra certainly doesn’t scrimp on luxury.
Along with a wonderful spa, you’ll find spacious, luxurious bedrooms. The hotel’s restaurant, Esencia, offers Mexican-Cuban fusion food, and includes plenty of seafood sourced from the island’s waters. Also don’t miss the regular yoga and pilates sessions on the beach in front of the hotel. While it works for friends and families, I think this is the one of the best hotels in Holbox for couples seeking a romantic break.
READ MORE: Isla Holbox Travel Guide
Casa Las Tortugas
*Please note, this hotel has sadly experienced a devastating fire in November 2022, so please check their website for updates.*
Casa Las Tortugas is one of the most popular hotels in Holbox, and one I’ve had recommended by plenty of people! The beautiful boutique hotel sits on the beach, just a stone’s throw from the island’s main square. It offers the best of both worlds – you’re close to the main action on Holbox Island, whilst still feeling like you’ve got your own private slice of paradise.
Rooms are comfortable and the chic design of the hotel cleverly repurposes driftwood and local materials to create an elegant hippie-chic vibe. One of the big attractions is the restaurant, which serves up fabulous seafood and local delicacies.
Villas Flamingos
The luxury eco-resort of Villas Flamingos is located in the heart of the Yum Balam Reserve, and is regarded as one of the best luxury hotels in Holbox. It’s the ideal place to reconnect with nature without sacrificing your comfort.
It’s designed to have as little impact on the natural environment as possible, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without damaging the island’s precious ecosystem.
The beach is secluded and set away from the main populated areas, so this is the ideal place to come for a taste of nature and some peace and quiet. Each room is decorated individually in a bohemian style, with bright mosaic tiles and handcrafted wooden embellishments. best hotels in Holbox.
Las Nubes de Holbox
On an island crammed with brightly decorated hotels and vibrant murals, the minimalist design of Las Nubes de Holbox is surprising. The hotel features simple, whitewashed, thatched buildings in traditional styles, with comfort at the heart.
You’ll find lush interiors, a luxurious spa, and everything else you’d expect from one of the most popular luxury hotels in Holbox. Although the design may be minimalist, the natural beauty of Holbox speaks for itself, and is best appreciated from the romantic terrace in the hotel restaurant.
Mid-Range Hotels in Isla Holbox
Hotel Punta Caliza
From the outside, Punta Caliza Hotel resembles many of the luxury boutique hotels that litter the coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula. However, take a step inside and you’ll soon see that this hotel is one-of-a-kind.
Designed by a group of award-winning young architects, the entire structure is inspired by traditional Mayan construction techniques, using red cedar bark and lime to create gorgeous stucco effects.
The highlight has to be the water-filled ‘patio’ in the central courtyard. This is an eco-friendly hotel run by a small family – as such, you’ll receive a warm welcome, personalised service, and plenty of insider tips for your time on Isla Holbox.
Cielito Lindo
This 3-star hotel is just a stone’s throw from the beach and has everything you need to enjoy your stay on Holbox, without breaking the bank. Rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, and the outdoor pool makes a refreshing change from the sea on hot days.
This is also a great option for families, with plenty of activities for little ones and well-priced family rooms. It’s definitely one of the best mid range options on the island.
Self-Catered Accommodation in Isla Holbox
Some of my favourite places to stay on the island are cute Airbnbs, villas and apartments. If you’re on a budget, would like the option of self-catering your trip, or you’re travelling as a family or a big group, you might find an Airbnbs suits your needs better. You can claim £35 / $45 off your first trip by clicking here.
Casa HM Villa del Mar
This is one of those dream houses that needs to be seen to be believed! It’s chic and luxurious, with minimalist décor. It sleeps up to seven people across three bedrooms, so would be perfect for a group or family trip.
It has a large terrace, swimming pool and hot tub – what more could you need on holiday! Plus, this villa is in a great location, moments from the beach. There’s an option to book a chef to prep some of your meals too, if cooking feels like too much of a hassle on your holiday!
Baläo Beach Club Tower
How about this for some unique accommodation on the island. This adorable treehouse-style apartment makes an incredible escape from the hustle and bustle of the centre of the island. It’s right up in the palm trees, feels lovely and private, and is moments from the beach.
There’s a shared pool too, for those moments when you want to cool off. If you’re looking for a memorable and romantic place to stay on the island, this is it!
Why Knot Cool
This colourful guest house has two bedrooms and sleeps up to four people, making it perfect for couples or families. I love how quirky it looks, with colourful designs all around.
There’s a shared pool on site too, as well as it being a short walk to a quiet part of the main stretch of beach. Lots of people rave about the welcome from the owner, so this is somewhere you’re guaranteed to be well looked after!
Villa Moopich
This 6-bedroom villa on Isla Holbox can sleep 16 people, making it perfect for a group holiday on the island. The house is immaculate inside, with lots of space to spread out and socialise. Outside you’ll find a pool and terrace area.
It’s also in a great location, under 100 steps to the beach, where you’ll find private chairs and palapas just for house guests. It’s a short walk into town too, for when you fancy going out for dinner or grabbing an ice cream. This is one of the best rated Airbnbs on Holbox, but it does get booked up, so book well in advance.
Casa Mariposa
The ultimate villa for a large group in Isla Holbox, Casa Mariposa sleeps up to 20 people. It has a private beach area, outdoor pool and plenty of areas for socialising and relaxing.
Interiors are quirky, with murals and pops of colour dotted throughout the villa. Reviews are excellent, with many booking this house for special occasions, like wedding parties, 40th birthdays etc. If you’re looking for a huge beach house in Holbox, this is another option.
Budget Hotels in Isla Holbox
Tribu Hostel
Tribu Hostel is one of the best places to stay in Isla Holbox for backpackers. Designed by travellers, for travellers, this cheap hostel is perfectly thought out to meet the needs of backpackers and budget travellers. You’ll find a variety of vibrant dorm rooms, singles and doubles, all at reasonable prices.
However, the real draw of this hotel is its wonderful bar, where it’s easy to meet people, and share a beer while enjoying live music and swapping travel tales. If you’re a creative type, you can even grab a paintbrush and add to the murals that adorn the walls.
Still deciding where to stay in Isla Holbox? Search using this handy map of the island and see where takes your fancy!
Hopefully this guide has given you plenty of ideas for where to stay in Isla Holbox. For the top things to do in Isla Holbox, check out my comprehensive travel guide! Let me know where you end up.
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FAQs
What part of Holbox is best to stay in? ›
Young backpackers will prefer to stay in downtown Holbox, where the restaurants and bars are concentrated. Couples and families will love the tranquility and pristine water on the western end. I personally think the best area to stay in Holbox is the eastern end where the sand bar and the best beach lie.
What time of year is Holbox best? ›The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is most settled. The hottest month of the year is May with an average daily maximum of 36 C and an average low of 23 C. The coolest month of the year is December with an average daily maximum of 28 C and an average low of 20 C.
How many days is enough in Holbox? ›I'd recommend staying in Holbox for between three and five nights. That will give you a nice amount of time to relax into island life, sample some delicious food, soak up the views and enjoy a few tourist attractions in Isla Holbox.
How much money do you need a day in Holbox? ›Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't, and sometimes they have a line of people waiting to use them and then they run out of money. We read online that a rule of thumb for how much money you need in Holbox is 1,000 Mexican pesos per day per person.
Is it safe to walk around Holbox at night? ›Pickpocketing, mugging and drug crimes are all very low risk on Holbox. Typically, any crimes that occur are between locals and don't involve tourists, but be sure to always use general caution and avoid the beach at night.
Is it expensive in Holbox? ›The average price of a 7-day trip to Isla Holbox is $1,761 for a solo traveler, $3,163 for a couple, and $5,929 for a family of 4. Isla Holbox hotels range from $73 to $335 per night with an average of $173, while most vacation rentals will cost $240 to $280 per night for the entire home.
What time of year is bioluminescence best in Holbox? ›Bioluminescence is best seen under dark night sky conditions with no moonlight. To get the very best bioluminescence experience and maximum visibility, plan your Holbox vacation in the days surrounding the new moon in the summer and fall seasons.
What time of year is bioluminescence in Holbox? ›bioluminescence in Holbox is present almost all year round. However, it's better to experience this phenomenon in absolute darkness.
What time of year are flamingos in Holbox? ›Flamingo season in Holbox, Mexico is April to October making this the best time to visit Holbox if you want to see flamingos yet locals claim you can spot them year round. Whether you want to spot flamingo's in Holbox, visiting Punta Mosquito is still a must for anyone visting this island.
How bad are mosquitoes in Holbox? ›Because Isla Holbox is unspoilt there is a lot of vegetation around which means lots and lots of mosquitoes. The island is even referred to as the island of mosquitoes by locals. Unfortunately it's mosquito season all year round but the mosquitoes are their worst in June.
Is Isla Holbox worth going to? ›
No doubt Isla Holbox is one of the best paces to visit in Yucatan and not just because you can swim with whale sharks here. Over the last 3 years I have visited the island multiple times also in the off season. According to some travelers it is similar to visiting Isla Mujeres, but I totally disagree!
How long is the shuttle from Cancun to Holbox? ›| Cost (One-Way) | Journey Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Bus + Ferry | 536 pesos (344 + 220 pesos) | 3 hours |
| Colectivo + Ferry | 486 pesos (250 + 220 pesos) | 3.5 hours |
| Rental Car + Ferry | Dependent on length of hire and company + 220 pesos | 3 hours |
| Private Shuttle + Ferry | 160 USD for up to 7 people + 220 pesos | 3 hours |
In Holbox, cash is the most common form of payment. Mexican Pesos and US Dollars are accepted everywhere, however it is recommended to carry smaller denominations of money as some local companies often go unchanged.
Is Holbox cash only? ›Most restaurants, bars and shops in Holbox are cash only, but the island is changing. More and more places are accepting cards, but it is still a predominantly cash island. Ensure you have enough cash on you for the duration of your trip, as the ATMs on Isla Holbox are unreliable and often run out of money.
How much money do I need for Isla Holbox? ›Bring how much you think you'll need for the entirety of your stay. If you're a backpacker, $40 a day should be safe. Very few places on Isla Holbox accept credit card. There are ATMs on Isla Holbox, but they are extremely unreliable.
What is the sewage problem in Isla Holbox? ›Previously: The fight to preserve Isla Holbox
“Right now, these are overflowing, and the liquid spilling out is urine. Of 81 cisterns, 21 are failing.” For a little more than three years, the deterioration of the sewage system has the island at risk of severe environmental contamination, hoteliers complain.
The risk for mosquito activity is high.
Is it safe to swim in Holbox? ›Holbox Island is usually a safe place to swim. Many parts of the island have shallow water where you can walk out dozens of feet with the water only coming up to your waist. Stingrays visit the area, so it's best practice to shuffle your feet when wading in the water to avoid stepping on one.
How do you get around in Holbox Mexico? ›Taxis: The beauty of Isla Holbox is that there are no cars. The island has a taxi-like system of golf carts. They line up when the ferries come in so you can get a ride to wherever you're staying. Bike: Since Isla Holbox is so small, bikes are an ideal mode of transport.
How many hours is Holbox from Cancun? ›Isla Holbox is about 2 hours north of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, and it takes about 2.5-3 hours to get to Isla Holbox from Tulum. Since it's an island and there are no bridges, you'll also need to get a short, 20-minute ferry ride from the port town of Chiquila, Mexico.
Is the drive from Cancun to Holbox safe? ›
Yes — For the vast majority of travelers, the Cancun Chiquila route is a safe and easy drive.
What month is best for bioluminescence? ›When Can I See Bioluminescence? Bioluminescence is a year-long phenomenon. In the summer months (June – September) and into Fall, we see a bioluminescence produced by a plankton called dinoflagellates.
Is the water warm in Isla Holbox? ›The swimming season in this location lasts all year round. Average annual water temperature on the coast in Holbox is 82°F, by the seasons: in winter 79°F, in spring 80°F, in summer 84°F, in autumn 83°F. Minimum water temperature (77°F) in Holbox it happens in February, maximum (86°F) in August.
What time of year can you swim with whale sharks in Holbox? ›Whale sharks, the biggest fish in the world, come every year to visit Holbox. And you can swim with it! Available from June 10th to September 17th.
What are the best dates for bioluminescence in Florida? ›May to November is the best time of year to see bioluminescent plankton (also known as dinoflagellates). The glowing plankton makes their appearance around summer, drawn to warm waters. From November to March, comb jellies take to the cooler water.
When can you see whales in Holbox? ›| _ | May 15th to June 10th | July 1st to August 31st |
|---|---|---|
| Weather conditions | Acceptable | Excellent |
| Whale shark watching | Occasional | Very frequent |
While the bio bays have some bioluminescence year-round, the best time of the year to visit them is during the dry season, from December to mid-April.
Is Holbox a party island? ›The nightlife on the island is quite manageable compared to the big tourist centers in Cancún or Playa del Carmen. In many pubs there are often small live concerts or DJs who encourage their guests to stay longer.
Where is the best place to snorkel in Holbox? ›For those looking for a snorkeling tour in Holbox exists Cabo Catoche which is the area with the best reefs for snorkeling. It is located 43 kilometers from Holbox at the point where the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico come together.
How long is drive from Tulum to Holbox? ›The Tulum to Holbox drive takes about 2.5 hours (plus the 20-minute ferry ride).
Is Holbox walkable? ›
Getting Around Isla Holbox
The town of Holbox is very small and perfectly walkable, plus it's laid out in grid format so finding your way is easy. From the ferry port, it takes only 8 minutes to walk to the main square at the centre of town, and an extra two minutes to walk to the main hotels and hostels.
Holbox is 26 miles long – it would take you a couple of days to walk the length of it and back. Most visitors see as much as they can, slowly and sedately by bike, but if you're in a hurry – or if if you don't feel up to the exercise – you can rent a souped-up golf buggy and drive along the designated dirt roads.
How do you get around Holbox Island? ›Holbox is easy to navigate on foot, by bicycle or by golf cart – golf cart taxis are freely available and it's easy to rent a golf cart while on the island if you wish to explore by yourself.
Is Holbox good for swimming? ›Playa Holbox – the Main Beach
What is this? It's also BEAUTIFUL: think white sand and clear, shallow water that's perfect for swimming. There are tons of amenities here: with a great mix of restaurants, bars, and beach clubs on the sand to suit all tastes and budgets.
Rent a Golf Cart
These small vehicles are quite suitable for the poor sandy roads, as long as you avoid large puddles and potholes, and do not drive in loose sand. Otherwise, you can get stuck or the engine dies because it gets wet.
Mosquitoes in Holbox = One thing we did not like
Unfortunately it's mosquito season all year round but the mosquitoes are their worst in June. During the day prepare to get attacked by these tiny creatures. They're so tiny that the locals call them 'no-see-ums'. They are vicious so do come prepared.
In Holbox, cash is the most common form of payment. Mexican Pesos and US Dollars are accepted everywhere, however it is recommended to carry smaller denominations of money as some local companies often go unchanged. $ 100 dollar bills are not generally accepted in the area.
When can you see bioluminescence in Holbox? ›When and Where to Experience Bioluminescence in Holbox. Bioluminescence is best seen under dark night sky conditions with no moonlight. To get the very best bioluminescence experience and maximum visibility, plan your Holbox vacation in the days surrounding the new moon in the summer and fall seasons.
How long is the ferry ride from Holbox to Cancun? ›The Ferry to Holbox Information
Ferry to Holbox island is located in Chiquila, about 1 hour and 48 mintues from Cancun airport. The boat runs daily from 6:00 am to 9:30 pm every half an hour.
It's a 10-minute ride along the main drag to the island's only town: Holbox. Bikes and golf carts are the main modes of transport—you'll find a number of rental shops on the island, and most hotels offer complimentary beach cruisers—but you can go almost anywhere on foot.