The Paradise Island 2 Hours North of Cancun That travelers are Falling in Love With

When tourists dream of a Caribbean vacation in Mexico, they think about crystal turquoise water and lounging in a hammock on a tropical beach while sipping a cool drink.

However, much of the area around Cancun is developed these days, and nearby towns such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or even islands like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, are more like tourist cities instead of the traditional Mexican Caribbean escape.

However, there is a place not too far from the traffic and hoards of people in Cancun where life takes a slower pace and the main drag down the middle of the town is not even paved. 

Welcome to the Mexican Caribbean island paradise of Isla Holbox.

Destination Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox is the rural tropical getaway most people dream of when they think of the Mexican Caribbean. What the island lacks in glitzy nightclubs and fine five-star dining, it makes up with the travel trends of nature and sustainability.

It’s where travelers come to Mexico to escape and enjoy life without all of the noise, hassles, traffic, and headaches of the major tourist towns.

However, it does get some getting used to for travelers visiting Isla Holbox for the first time.

It’s rustic. It’s raw. It’s car-free. But it’s beautiful and captivating. 

The streets are not paved and become muddy in the rain. Bars will welcome you like family and really remember your name. Reservations are not needed for restaurants, but please at least wear shoes.

It’s traditional Mexican Caribbean and once travelers have tried it, they never want to go home.

Exploring the Area

If travelers really desire to venture from the white sand beaches to seek adventure in other parts of the area, here are a few ideas to tempt the explorer in everyone.

The first adventure is getting here from Cancun. The easiest way is a bus ride. However, it is about two and a half hours to get to Isla Holbox.

Come during the right time of year and visitors to Isla Holbox can connect with whale sharks as they make their migration around the curve in the Yucatan Peninsula. Typically this is between mid-May and mid-September.

Travelers can also connect with the local culture by checking out the many brightly painted and colorful murals around the town. Each one displays a unique part of the traditional heritage.

Another popular side trip is renting a golf cart and exploring the different parts of the island. Rental prices…