If you’re considering traveling to, or planning a trip to Holbox Island, Mexico, there are things to know in advance, given its remote location.
This lesser known spot in the Yucatán has a lot to offer, but there are some key things to know so that you can have the best trip possible.
Read on for helpful tips for things to avoid and what to do instead, so you can plan exactly the trip that you’re looking for!
Want to jump ahead?
Where is Holbox Island?
One of the key things to know about whole box island is what you see on the map is significantly larger than what you are able to explore.
In other words, a lot of the island is protected or doesn’t have any access aside from visiting while on a boat and on a tour.
This means the actual downtown is just several blocks by several blocks, and the island that is accessible to tourist is within a very small area.
The Google Map of the island is deceiving because it seems REALLY big, but the actual “part that you can travel and explore” is significantly smaller.
How to Get to Holbox Island
To get to Holbox Island, you’ll need to first travel to the town of Chiquilá, which is about a two-hour drive from Cancun. You can either take a shared or private shuttle from Cancun Airport, with private options typically being more comfortable. Once you arrive in Chiquilá, you’ll hop on a ferry, which departs every 30 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to reach Holbox. The ferry ticket costs 220 pesos, payable in cash.
Upon arrival on Holbox, you’ll either walk or take a golf cart taxi to your hotel. There are no cars on the island, so taxis or rented bikes are your main modes of transportation. Golf cart taxis are around $10, while renting a bike will cost around 100 pesos for a few hours. Holbox is relatively small, so walking is also an option for getting around and enjoying the island’s laid-back vibe.
Want more? There is a full Youtube video about HOW to get Holbox Island! Watch it by clicking here.
Weather on Holbox Island
Holbox Island has warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April. Expect sunny days, low humidity, and temps in the 70s and 80s°F (24-29°C)—perfect for outdoor adventures. Just keep in mind this is also peak tourist season, so it might be a bit busier.
From May to October, it’s the rainy season with higher humidity and occasional downpours, but they usually don’t last long. Temps can hit the 80s and 90s°F (29-35°C), so it’s hot and humid, but still manageable. Summer also brings seaweed and mosquitoes, but it’s the best time for bioluminescence and swimming with whale sharks!
Contrary to Popular Belief, Summer is Better
Traveling to Holbox in the summer has its perks, especially if you’re looking for unique experiences like swimming with whale sharks or seeing bioluminescence. The water is warmer, making it perfect for spending long days in the ocean, unlike the cooler winter months.
Although summer comes with some challenges like more mosquitoes and occasional seaweed, it’s also when you’ll get the best of Holbox’s natural beauty. If you’re after adventure, the summer months are the ideal time to visit, with fewer crowds and the chance to enjoy the island’s wildlife and stunning bioluminescent displays.
Did you know there is a video version of this blog post? Check it out by clicking here or watch it below!
Timing Your Visit with Whale Sharks
Swimming with whale sharks is one of the most popular activities in Holbox, but it’s important to know that it’s a seasonal experience. The best time to see them is during the summer months of July and August when the whale sharks pass through the waters around Holbox to feed.
Many visitors come expecting to swim with them year-round, but this incredible opportunity is limited to those key months. If swimming with these gentle giants is on your bucket list, be sure to plan your trip to Holbox during this time for the best chance to experience it
What’s the best way to go on tours? I love using Viator! Check out their top (traveler ranked!) tours on Holbox Island by clicking here.
Exploring Yalahau Cenote
Visiting Yalahau, a stunning cenote near Holbox, is a must-do on your trip! It’s often included in the popular Three Islands Tour, where you’ll take a boat out to this beautiful natural spring. The water in Yalahau is always refreshingly cool, making it a perfect spot to take a dip, especially during the hot summer months.
Just keep in mind, if you visit in the morning when it’s cooler outside, the water can feel a bit chilly. Regardless, the crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere make Yalahau a magical stop on your Holbox adventure!
Where to Stay on Holbox Island
When deciding where to stay on Holbox Island, don’t feel like you need to splurge on a beachfront hotel. While some properties near the beach can be stunning, they often come with a high price tag—sometimes $200 to $300 a night or more. There are plenty of great options off the beach that offer a more budget-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort.
For example, Hotel Casa Barbara is a fantastic choice where you can stay for around $100 a night, including breakfast. The island has lots of cool, vibey hotels, especially as you head east, but staying off the beach can still give you easy access to everything Holbox has to offer while saving you some cash.
5 more key tips for traveling Holbox Island
Avoid High Tide for Sandbars – One of Holbox’s most magical experiences is walking on its endless sandbars, but they disappear during high tide. Make sure to check the tide schedule to enjoy them at their fullest.
Take a Private or Shared Shuttle – The easiest way to get to Holbox from Cancun is by taking a shuttle to Chiquilá. You can book a private shuttle for more comfort or hop on a shared shuttle for a more budget-friendly option.
Cash is King – Bring pesos for the ferry to Holbox and for local expenses, as you’ll need cash for most things on the island. There’s no need to use a credit card; you’ll find ATMs, but it’s easier to arrive prepared with cash.
Rent a Bike or Golf Cart – Since there are no cars on Holbox, the main ways to get around are by renting a bike or taking a golf cart taxi. Renting a bike is affordable, but keep in mind that the roads are unpaved and can be bumpy.
Pack for Seaweed & Mosquitoes – In the summer, Holbox can have seaweed on the beaches and plenty of mosquitoes. Pack bug spray and be prepared to swim past the seaweed for clear water or enjoy the sandbars instead!
Bottom Line
Holbox Island offers unique experiences like swimming with whale sharks in July and August and exploring beautiful sandbars—just avoid high tide! Make sure to bring pesos, as cash is essential for most transactions. Getting around the island is easy with bikes or golf carts, and while the summer brings mosquitoes and seaweed, it’s also the best time for warmer water and stunning bioluminescence.
Lastly, consider staying off the beach for more affordable accommodations without missing out on the island’s charm.
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