Holbox is a small, beautiful, car-free island off the northern coast of the Yucatan peninsula boasting a laid back lifestyle . With so much to do around the island, you’ll definitely need to plan a nice long stay.
Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, Holbox is rich in marine life such as sea turtles and whale sharks among other great natural attractions. Getting there is easy and the quaint island vibe is even easier! So whether you’re a hardcore diver, into spas and wellness or just want to veg out and soak in the relaxing island lifestyle, there is no wrong way to enjoy and experience Holbox. Pro tip: While Holbox is walkable, golf cart taxis are available as well as bicycle rentals to get you around more quickly.
Join me as I uncover the best things to do in Holbox Mexico!
Where to stay in Holbox?
Where to stay in Holbox?El Nido of course! Only a 4 minute walk to Punta Coco, the stylish El Nido provides adults only accommodations with a beautiful garden, terraces and an outdoor swimming pool. El Nido feels so private and serene yet offers all the creature comforts. And if you are visiting Tulum, be sure to visit their sister property located in downtown Tulum Posada 06!
Staying at El Nido, guests are treated to a beautiful continental or American style breakfast while relaxing on the lovely terrace. A perfect way to get any day started!
What’s there to do in Holbox?
Whale shark season in Holbox ranges from June to September so if swimming with these gentle giants is on your bucket list, be sure to plan accordingly. Also, be sure to check with all the local sea adventure companies to find the best tour to suit your needs.
Seeing the whale shark up close and personal is such an exhilarating experience. I loved every moment of it and highly suggest it to anyone who loves marine life. Not only will you swim with these magnificent creatures, you will also get the chance to swim with other sea life and then be treated to a tasty island lunch on a nearby beach located at the far ends of Holbox island.
No trip to Holbox is complete without visiting the sand bar and there are several ways to get there. By foot of course, making your way through the shop filled streets or even walking the full length of the coast. You can’t get lost in Holbox and that’s part of the appeal.
And if you have some time, be sure to take a trip to the bioluminescent bay in the evening either by kayak or by foot to see the magical waters within and around the island!
What’s the food scene like in Holbox?
The Yucatan is bursting with great vegan food and it seems that Holbox is no different and Arte Sano is a vegan restaurant leading the way. This island paradise has so much to offer all sorts of travelers.
Holbox has a wide array of accommodations as well as dining establishments from backpacker vibes to high end and trendy. Basico is one of several hip places serving up incredible plant based options and tasty cocktails. There is something for everyone at Basico!
For brunch or lunch, Painapol is the place. Offering fresh, clean eats, Painapol is the perfect spot for a healthy meal any time of day and is definitely a Holbox hotspot.
Within downtown Holbox, you will find tons of places to dine but this hidden gem is not to be missed. Words can’t express how utterly impressed I was of Milpa. So innovative and fun, their plant based tasting menu is out of this world not only in style but also in taste!
Holbox is a slice of heaven and I hope my time here has enticed you to visit! Be sure to check out my Holbox travel show episode for a visual tour of the best things to do in Holbox Mexico!
