Immigration Forms
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You will receive either one or two forms on the flight to mexico. The first form is a declarations form (one per family) which you may or may not get. When I’ve flown into Terminal 4 I don’t get the form but I do in Terminal 3. This is pretty straight forward form which basically is asking for what you are bringing into Mexico.
The second form is the Tourist Card and this is the more difficult one to fill out and the example below should help you. Make sure you fill out the bottom section and at immigration this will be given back to you. MAKE SURE NOT TO LOOSE THIS. If you do not have this card upon returning to the Cancun airport, you will not be able to go through customer until you get a replacement card. The replacement card can be obtained at the airport for $35 but the bigger issue is the delay which may cause you to miss your flight. |
Transportation from the Airport to Ferry Dock
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There are two primary ways to get from the Cancun airport to the Ferry dock, taxi or private transportation. I recommend contacting William Gonzalez who will provide transportation from the airport to the Ferry dock for $40US. For a minimal additional fee, William will also take you shopping in Cancun for any supplies you may want.
email: balingonzalez73@hotmail.com Call or text: + 52 (998) 241-3367 www.islaholicstransfers.com There are three international terminals at the Cancun airport and which terminal you will arrive on will be dependent on which airline you arrive on. If you use William for your transportation, provide him with your flight details and he will know which terminal you will arriving at and will also be able to use an iPhone app to track your flight and ensure that he is there when you arrive. |
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Terminal 2 Directions
To get to Williams pickup point for terminal 2, walk to the airport exit, continue walking under the awning (See redline on the map below) and across the street at the end of the awning will be a Hertz car rental (see picture below).
To get to Williams pickup point for terminal 2, walk to the airport exit, continue walking under the awning (See redline on the map below) and across the street at the end of the awning will be a Hertz car rental (see picture below).
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Terminal 3 Directions
To get to Williams Terminal 3 pickup point, walk to the airport exit, go through the doors to outside, take an immediate left and walk through the outside exit (see picture below). Walk approximately 50ft and cross the road (see red line below) and William waiting be waiting under the awnings (see picture above).
To get to Williams Terminal 3 pickup point, walk to the airport exit, go through the doors to outside, take an immediate left and walk through the outside exit (see picture below). Walk approximately 50ft and cross the road (see red line below) and William waiting be waiting under the awnings (see picture above).
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Terminal 4 Directions
To get to Williams Terminal 4 pickup point, exist out the door with the Family and Friends sign above it and walk to the end of the corridor and William will be waiting.
To get to Williams Terminal 4 pickup point, exist out the door with the Family and Friends sign above it and walk to the end of the corridor and William will be waiting.
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Taxi Cabs
The second option is to take one of the abundant taxicabs that will be waiting at the airport, which should cost approximately $50 or more Make sure to tell the taxi driver that you want to go directly to the Gran Puerto (Puerto Juarez) Ferry dock or he might take you on the “scenic route”.
The second option is to take one of the abundant taxicabs that will be waiting at the airport, which should cost approximately $50 or more Make sure to tell the taxi driver that you want to go directly to the Gran Puerto (Puerto Juarez) Ferry dock or he might take you on the “scenic route”.
Ferry to Ixchel
Ferry Docks
There are three different Ferry’s that run from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. I recommend taking the Ultramar out of Gran Puerto, which is the largest and fastest. The facilities at Gran Puerto are very comfortable with nice bathrooms, an Oxxo (convenience store), money exchange, and small gift shop. Buy a one-way ticket for 180 pesos inside the gift shop. Often people buy a round-trip ticket for 360 pesos and then lose it and have to buy another ticket.
From the Ferry Dock to Ixchel
From the Ferry dock there are a few options to get to Ixchel. If you have limited luggage, it is an easy half mile walk. Simply walk two blocks from the ferry into town and take a left at Hildago Ave and follow it all the way to the end (see map below)
If you have a bit more luggage you may want to use a "maletero" who will carry your luggage on a three-wheel bicycle (tip your maletero 50 peso or $4.50). There will also be many taxicabs available if you so desire.
There are three different Ferry’s that run from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. I recommend taking the Ultramar out of Gran Puerto, which is the largest and fastest. The facilities at Gran Puerto are very comfortable with nice bathrooms, an Oxxo (convenience store), money exchange, and small gift shop. Buy a one-way ticket for 180 pesos inside the gift shop. Often people buy a round-trip ticket for 360 pesos and then lose it and have to buy another ticket.
- The first crossing to Isla Mujeres is at 5:00 AM. Ferries run every half hour until 8:30 PM, then every hour until 11:30 pm (9:30, 10:30 and 11:30)
- The first crossing from Isla Mujeres to Cancun is at 5:30 AM. Ferries run every half hour until 9:00 PM and then every hour until 12:00 AM (10:00 pm, 11:00 pm, 12:00 am)
From the Ferry Dock to Ixchel
From the Ferry dock there are a few options to get to Ixchel. If you have limited luggage, it is an easy half mile walk. Simply walk two blocks from the ferry into town and take a left at Hildago Ave and follow it all the way to the end (see map below)
If you have a bit more luggage you may want to use a "maletero" who will carry your luggage on a three-wheel bicycle (tip your maletero 50 peso or $4.50). There will also be many taxicabs available if you so desire.
Ixchel Beach Hotel
The Ixchel (Mayan Goddess of Love) condominium has a friendly onsite bi-ingual staff (24hr receptionist, concierge, security, maintenance, and, daily maid service) that will professionally accommodate all of your needs. Amenities for the resort include a pool, restaurant, bar, beach loungers, umbrellas, beach towels, and daily maid service.
Check In
There are two Ixchel building (phases) and each has its own front desk. If you are staying in 407/408 you will be in phase 1 which is to the right as you approach the two buildings. If you are staying in 703 you will be in phase 2, the building on the left as you approach from Hildago.
Please note that if you are staying in 408 (phase 1) and take a cab, the driver may drop you off on the next street over so the building will be on your left. Just ask the cab driver and he will tell you which building.
Checking in will be just like checking into a hotel. Provide your name to the front desk and they will check you, provide you with room and towel cards, and information about staying at the hotel. They will require that you provide a credit card that will be used for any charges you make to the room.
Check in is 3:00 and check out is noon.
Check In
There are two Ixchel building (phases) and each has its own front desk. If you are staying in 407/408 you will be in phase 1 which is to the right as you approach the two buildings. If you are staying in 703 you will be in phase 2, the building on the left as you approach from Hildago.
Please note that if you are staying in 408 (phase 1) and take a cab, the driver may drop you off on the next street over so the building will be on your left. Just ask the cab driver and he will tell you which building.
Checking in will be just like checking into a hotel. Provide your name to the front desk and they will check you, provide you with room and towel cards, and information about staying at the hotel. They will require that you provide a credit card that will be used for any charges you make to the room.
Check in is 3:00 and check out is noon.
Kalak Restaurant
Kalak at Ixchel Beach Hotel is the Hotel's main restaurant where you and your family can enjoy a casual dining and fun for everyone, whether for breakfast, lunch and dinner, enjoying a view of the best beach in Isla Mujeres (North Beach). Experience a selection of tastes as vibrant and eclectic as Quintana Roo. Taking full assurance that our food is prepared with the highest standards of quality and hygiene. Cozy bar operating and East and West tower of the Hotel, offer its discerning guests a variety of cocktails and tropical drinks served as anywhere else on the island in 14oz cups. Indulge in the wide variety of drinks with our promotions throughout the year while enjoying the best ocean view.
Open Daily from 7.30a.m–8:00p.m
Open Daily from 7.30a.m–8:00p.m
Beach ChairsBeach Chairs
The blue beach chairs and umbrellas directly in front of the Ixchel buildings are free to use for Ixchel guests. The chairs in the left square are for building ones and the left square are for building 2. The large Palapa (Palapa Leydi) between the two Ixchel beach areas are not associated with Ixchel and will charge you to use their chairs and umbrellas. While using the blue Ixchel chairs you will be served by the the Kalak staff, which is the Ixchel restaurant. Waiters from other beach restaurants may also try to serve you which is OK but if you wish to charge to your room you will need to use the Kalak waiters which will have shirts that have Kalak printed on them |
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Ixchel Beach Hotel Amenities
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Included in your stay are the following:
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Recommendations
Exploring the many food and activity options on Isla Mujeres is part of the charm of the island and there is sure to be something to suite everyone’s tastes. Creating a list of recommendations is a bit difficult because there are so many to choose from and they are ever changing. Every time I go to the island I make it a point to try a few new places but I have been going to Isla for eight years now and there are still many, many dining and activity options that I have yet to explore. Below is my attempt but I encourage you to explore and find your own favorites. For directions, simply ask at the front desk and they will be happy to provide you with a map and directions to anywhere you want to go.
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Food – Walking Distance
Loncheria Alexia y Geovanny – This is actually one of four small restaurants located about a block away from Ixchel. They are all fairly authentic and speak limited English (menu is in both Spanish and English) but the breakfasts are good and inexpensive. I’ve eaten at all of them and they seem equal in quality and all serve the basics (eggs, omelets, pancakes, French toast, etc) as well as local favorites. They also serve lunch as well but I’ve only eaten breakfast which I do at least half the mornings I’m on Isla. If you do go, take a few minutes to walk through the other building that shares the parking lot. It is a small “mall” that has a variety of little shops with fresh produce, hand squeezed juices, misc as well as restaurants and a tortilla factory. North Garden – A new restaurant that is a short walk away. A bit of an eclectic menu but very good. Has only been open a short time but has already become very popular. https://www.facebook.com/northgardencaffe Rooster – Rooster is a restaurant down about two blocks on Hidalgo. The restaurant has an arrangement with Ixchel and you can charge your meals to your room if you so desire. The Rooster is a nicer place with good food for both breakfast and lunch. They offer air conditioning as well as Wi-Fi. |
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Jax – Jax has a great location for watching sunsets from the second floor which overlooks the beach as well as sports games on their many TV’s. They serve American food as well as a decent variety of local favorites. http://www.jaxsportfishing.com/bar.asp
Abuelos – Is a small restaurant located less than a half block from Ixchel. As you leave building one go to the left and it is located have a block down on the left side of the street. It is a small restaurant that serves fresh fish (and other food) that is caught by the family that owns it. Excellent margaritas as well. Rolandis Pizzeria – Rolandis is an Italian restaurant approximately five blocks down Hidalgo one the left. One of my island favorites is the Shrimp Fettuccini Alfredo with Vodka Sauce. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rolandis/159531324103212 Olivia’s – Olivia’s provides Mediterranean food served in a very quaint outdoor courtyard setting. Reservations are recommended. https://www.olivia-isla-mujeres.com Bobo’s – Bobo’s serves good burgers and fish and chips in a very laid back atmosphere. Everyday there is a different special and Tuesday night is Rib night, which I think are best on the island. https://www.facebook.com/BobosFishChips |
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Ruben’s – Very good breakfast and lunches. Just a short walk from Ixchel.
Bally Hoo – Seafood Restaurant at very reasonable prices and good margaritas (just be careful of the large) right on the water. Just walk through the gas station and restaurant is on the other side. http://www.bally-hoo.com.mx El Patio – Located right on Hidalgo has live music nightly. There is a rooftop bar that has low key music early and a lower level that has a rock band nightly. https://www.facebook.com/ElPatioIslaMujeres Beach Bars – There are a number of bar and restaurants on the beach in either direction from Ixchel. Miguel’s Moonlight – Half a block off Hidalgo, stop in and have a drink with Miguel and write on his wall. Javis Cantina - Fresh authentic Mexican and seafood restaurant. http://javiscantina.com |
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Food – Cab or Golf Cart
Isla Mujeres is very safe and many of the best food choices are not located within walking distance of the hotel. I still need to explore them more extensively, but here are a few of my usual stops. Mango’s - The Mango Cafe is located mid-island on the Caribbean road. A great breakfast spot. If you go, check out the church across the street and the amazing view. http://mangocafe.restaurantwebexperts.com/ Soggy Peso Bar & Grill – An island favorite located mid island that everyone must experience. They only serve one meal a day which is listed on the sign out front. http://www.thesoggypeso.com/ Marbella – A bit more upscale “seafood market” and oyster bar that has the best selection of fish on the island and dinning right on the beach. http://www.mar-bella.com.mx/en/isla-mujeres-photo-gallery/ |
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Casa Rolanadi’s – A very upscale restaurant right on the Water. People often come over from Cancun to diner here. http://www.zoetryresorts.com/en_us/resorts/mexico/mujeres/gourmet-dining.html
Oscars – A great place to stop on a golf cart trip that is known for their Pizza, lasagna, and garlic knots but has a large overall menu. http://oscarsgrill.restaurantwebexperts.com/ Bastos – Off the main tourist areas but serves authentic Mexican food. Try the arachera which is a Mexican flank steak, very good. http://www.islamujeresrestaurant.com/Bastos-Grill-restaurant-Isla-Mujeres.html La Bruja – Another authentic Mexican restaurant owned by a very nice Mexican family. The Joint - You can’t miss this bright Reggae bar on the south end of the Island while golf carting (there is also a joint on Hidalgo as well). Known for their Frozen Mojito and all of the food I have eaten there is good. Plus they have live music every (all types) day from 1 PM – 8PM. https://www.thejointisla.com/ El Varadero – You may have to work a bit to find this Cuban place but it will be well worth it. Located directly on the lagoon you can enjoy a great Cuban or ceviche while watching the boats go by. https://www.facebook.com/El-Varadero-266145193400884/ Rosa Sirena’s – A nice rooftop restaurant with live music. Great views https://www.facebook.com/rosasirenasrestaurant/ Beachin Burritos – A small laid back burritos stand that serves great breakfast burritos. https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Breakfast---Brunch-Restaurant/Beachin-Burritos-744236019013515/ |
Groceries
There are a few different options for groceries on the island or you can stop in Cancun prior to your arrival. I prefer to support the local economy and buy my groceries there but you will save a few dollars if you buy in Cancun.
Mini Marts - There are many mini marts located within easy walking distance of Ixchel. They carry a surprising variety of items and usually my first stop for basics.
Grocery Store – If you walk all the way down Hidalgo until you hit the plaza area and take a left, there is a decent size grocery store a half block down on the left. While they don’t have everything, they have a very good variety.
Chedraui – This is a store that I would equate to a Mini Wal Mart. They have a wide selection of all sorts of items. It is located mid-island and you will need to golf cart or take a taxi to get here. signs on the island will direct.
Liquor Store – Most of the grocery stores, mini marts, and Chedraui carry beer and liquor. There is however a liquor store located a short walk down Hidalgo and take a left at Mamma Rosa’s and the liquor store in a half block down on the right.
There are a few different options for groceries on the island or you can stop in Cancun prior to your arrival. I prefer to support the local economy and buy my groceries there but you will save a few dollars if you buy in Cancun.
Mini Marts - There are many mini marts located within easy walking distance of Ixchel. They carry a surprising variety of items and usually my first stop for basics.
Grocery Store – If you walk all the way down Hidalgo until you hit the plaza area and take a left, there is a decent size grocery store a half block down on the left. While they don’t have everything, they have a very good variety.
Chedraui – This is a store that I would equate to a Mini Wal Mart. They have a wide selection of all sorts of items. It is located mid-island and you will need to golf cart or take a taxi to get here. signs on the island will direct.
Liquor Store – Most of the grocery stores, mini marts, and Chedraui carry beer and liquor. There is however a liquor store located a short walk down Hidalgo and take a left at Mamma Rosa’s and the liquor store in a half block down on the right.
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Activities Golf Carting – I highly recommend renting a golf cart early in your trip and exploring the island. Many people find it so enjoyable they rent golf carts for multiple days or even there whole trip. If you have never been to Isla Mujeres before it may seem a little bit intimidating but in no time you will feel very comfortable. It is almost impossible to get lost and even if you do the island is very safe and exploring some of the local neighborhoods can be very interesting. The front desk can help you make arrangements for your golf cart. During high season, golf carts can be in high demand so I suggest making reservations. Please note that Isla Mujeres has a zero tolerance for drinking and driving a golf cart and does not allow open containers in a golf cart. There are random check points at time on the island. Luxury Golf Carts – Located right next to Ixchel jlcb60@hotmail.com (998-129-8685) Indios Golf Carts - apache_islamujeres@hotmail.com - www.indios-golfcarts.com Golf Cart Driver/Tour - If you prefer to be chauffeured around the island in a golf cart and shown all of the best spots contact Robby. You can contact through FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/isladriverrobby/ |
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Snorkling – Although Isla Mujeres does not provide the best snorkeling there are a few options. A short walk down the beach there are two very shallow pools near the Mia Hotel which are excellent for children and novices. There is no place to rent gear right there but you can rent at shack right in front of Ixchel. For a better experience stop at a Mini Mart and pick up some food to sprinkle in the ocean and you’ll be surprised by the number of fish that will come out of nowhere.
Garrafón de Castilla – Little Garrfon is a small inexpensive beach (70 pesos) club right next to Garrafon Park and offers decent snorkeling. The beach club is a little run down but worth a stop if you want to do a bit of snorkeling.
El Farito – You will need to book a trip through one of the many charters. The drop you off near the water tower and you drift with the current over abundant sea life. It cost a little more money but I recommend doing an early morning private charter with Ariel. If you leave around 8:00am you will have the whole reef to yourself.
Snorkling/Fishing – Ariel Santizo Morales
email: arielsantizo@yahoo.com.mx
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/arielsantizodiaz
phone: 998-165-6332
Pedro Vega:
http://shutupandfish.doomby.com/
e-mail: pedrovega2230@hotmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pedrovegacancunmexico
Whale Shark Tours – The Whale sharks typically migrate through the waters near Isla Mujeres from Late May through Late Sept with the peak season being the summer months.
Scuba Diving – While not as world class as Cozumel there is some excellent scuba diving around Isla Mujeres, The two guides that I have used are Enrique (Enriques Unique Dives) and Shyla (Divelife). Enrique has a smaller boat and every time I have ever went with him it was a private dive. Shyla is better equipped and will take you out with a larger group.
Enriques Unique Dives
Website: http://www.divingislamujeres.com/index.php
Email: uayeb13@hotmail.com
Phone: +52 998 145 3594
Divelife
Website: http://www.divelife.mx/contact-isla-mujeres/
Email: uayeb13@hotmail.com
Phone: +52 998 688 4164
Garrafón de Castilla – Little Garrfon is a small inexpensive beach (70 pesos) club right next to Garrafon Park and offers decent snorkeling. The beach club is a little run down but worth a stop if you want to do a bit of snorkeling.
El Farito – You will need to book a trip through one of the many charters. The drop you off near the water tower and you drift with the current over abundant sea life. It cost a little more money but I recommend doing an early morning private charter with Ariel. If you leave around 8:00am you will have the whole reef to yourself.
Snorkling/Fishing – Ariel Santizo Morales
email: arielsantizo@yahoo.com.mx
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/arielsantizodiaz
phone: 998-165-6332
Pedro Vega:
http://shutupandfish.doomby.com/
e-mail: pedrovega2230@hotmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pedrovegacancunmexico
Whale Shark Tours – The Whale sharks typically migrate through the waters near Isla Mujeres from Late May through Late Sept with the peak season being the summer months.
Scuba Diving – While not as world class as Cozumel there is some excellent scuba diving around Isla Mujeres, The two guides that I have used are Enrique (Enriques Unique Dives) and Shyla (Divelife). Enrique has a smaller boat and every time I have ever went with him it was a private dive. Shyla is better equipped and will take you out with a larger group.
Enriques Unique Dives
Website: http://www.divingislamujeres.com/index.php
Email: uayeb13@hotmail.com
Phone: +52 998 145 3594
Divelife
Website: http://www.divelife.mx/contact-isla-mujeres/
Email: uayeb13@hotmail.com
Phone: +52 998 688 4164
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Tortugranja (Turtle Farm) – For 30 pesos you can walk through and see tanks of baby sea turtles as well as other sea life. One of my favorite stops when golf carting.
Sunset Boat Trips – There are currently catamaran boat tours which run both Mondays and Fridays. They include free drinks, appetizers, and live music. You can contact Penny at Pennydeming@gmail.com or you can book at the joint https://www.thejointisla.com/the-joint-sunset-cruise Cooking Class: Learn to cook an authentic Mexican meal. See the facebook group below for details: https://www.facebook.com/groups/832149040154539/ Spanish Lessons: Take a single lesson to get by or take a class each day. http://ontargetlanguage.com/Day Trips – There are many options for day trips around the Cancun area. Some possible options are seeing Pyramids, swimming in Cynotes and underground rivers, exploring small Mexican towns, and visiting water parks. Arrangements can be made at the front desk or through William (driver I recommend) |
Captain Dulche – If you are looking to get away from the crowds for a day (or even a few hours) stop in at Captain Dulche. It is a beach bar with a beautiful pool which you can use as long as order food or drinks. There are also Kayaks and paddle boards for rent. http://capitandulche.mx/
Please use these recommendations as a starting point for your vacation but don’t be afraid of finding your own favorites and when you do, please share them with us on our Ixchel Vacation Facebook page so that other guests can share your experiences as well.
Other Sources of Information
https://www.tasteofisla.com/
www.ixchelvacation.com – This is the website for the condo and includes some additional information that is not on VRBO.
https://www.facebook.com/ixchel408/ – Friend us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IslaholicsofIslaMujeres/ – A group you can join on Facebook that is a group of people that frequent Isla. There is a lot of people posting from the island and is a good source of information for things to do on the Island.
http://www.webcamsdemexico.com/webcam-isla-mujeres.html - Webcam located at Ixchel
http://www.isla-mujeres.net – The official website of Isla Mujeres
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g150810-Isla_Mujeres_Yucatan_Peninsula-Vacations.html - Trip advisor has a wealth of information about Isla Mujeres.
http://www.mapchick.com/isla-mujeres-map/ - You can purchase very detailed maps of Isla Mujeres with an incredible amount of information. I try to keep these at the condo but they usually disappear.
I try to keep my recommendations up to date but things change fairly frequently. If you find a spot that you think other would enjoy please drop me a note or add it to the guest book in the condo.
Please use these recommendations as a starting point for your vacation but don’t be afraid of finding your own favorites and when you do, please share them with us on our Ixchel Vacation Facebook page so that other guests can share your experiences as well.
Other Sources of Information
https://www.tasteofisla.com/
www.ixchelvacation.com – This is the website for the condo and includes some additional information that is not on VRBO.
https://www.facebook.com/ixchel408/ – Friend us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IslaholicsofIslaMujeres/ – A group you can join on Facebook that is a group of people that frequent Isla. There is a lot of people posting from the island and is a good source of information for things to do on the Island.
http://www.webcamsdemexico.com/webcam-isla-mujeres.html - Webcam located at Ixchel
http://www.isla-mujeres.net – The official website of Isla Mujeres
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g150810-Isla_Mujeres_Yucatan_Peninsula-Vacations.html - Trip advisor has a wealth of information about Isla Mujeres.
http://www.mapchick.com/isla-mujeres-map/ - You can purchase very detailed maps of Isla Mujeres with an incredible amount of information. I try to keep these at the condo but they usually disappear.
I try to keep my recommendations up to date but things change fairly frequently. If you find a spot that you think other would enjoy please drop me a note or add it to the guest book in the condo.