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12 Exciting Things to Do in Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Ishaan Govardhan
Only half a mile wide at its widest point, this tiny slice of heaven seems to float on the glimmering blue water of the Caribbean Sea. Besides its obvious tropical splendor, Isla Mujeres is home to Earth's few underwater museums. Too often, it gets written off as a simple daycation spot just off Cancun, when in fact, it has so much more to offer.

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If you feel like you may need a mini-vacation from your vacation in Cancun, the much less crowded Isla Mujeres has got you covered. So book yourself an all-inclusive stay at the island's tropical luxury resorts like the Isla Mujeres Palace, and answer its siren call.

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Once you step off the ferry, just follow the rhythmic sound of waves to find pristine beaches like Playa Norte or Playa Centro. Feel the fine sand between your toes, as you look out over the expanse of the Caribbean Sea.

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Soak up the sun, or set yourself up under a tiki hut by the sea. On Isla Mujeres, finding yourself an empty hammock is easy. It's the part where you have to eventually get up and leave that's tough!

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Though they may seem out of place to you on your first day, golf carts rule the streets of Isla Mujeres. It's not just a tourist gimmick, they're actually convenient to traverse this tiny island in. So rent yourself a golf cart and go exploring in style!

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Besides golf carts, this tropical oasis offers other interesting modes of transport. Strap yourself to a zip line and soar above the palm trees, as you join the seagulls for a thrill-ride to remember!
Drive your golf cart all the way to the other tip of the island. This is Punta Sur, where a lonely lighthouse and a stunning sculpture garden await you.

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You can even swim with pods of playful dolphins at Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres. There are also the less friendly (but not less majestic) wild whale sharks to spot in Isla Mujeres.

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The next stop for your golf cart should be Tortugranja: a sea turtle sanctuary. Hold adorable baby sea turtles, watch adult turtles swim and interact with other sea creatures like starfish and sea cucumbers.
The seaside cafes and restaurants of Isla Mujeres serve delicious Mexican seafood cuisine with a special Caribbean twist added to classic dishes like ceviche.

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Catch a spectacular Caribbean sunrise at the Cliff of the Dawn, back at Punta Sur. This is also a pretty good place for show-offs to make a daring splash into the crashing waves below.

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There's more to Isla Mujeres than what meets the eye. Descend beneath the surface to find thriving coral reefs full of vibrant sea life waiting for you. Snorkelers head for the Garrafon Reef Park or the Manchones Reef which is the site of the Cancun Underwater Museum.

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Let the local fishermen guide you to secret deep sea fishing spots out on the water. Rent a fishing boat (captain included) at Keen M Boat Charters or Charter Isla Mujeres.

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Isla Mujeres is known for going easy on the tourist's pocket. So take the chance to charter a yacht cruise and go luxury sailing. There's no better way to cap off your Caribbean adventure than sailing off into the sunset.