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Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is so close to Playa del Carmen now that the new road is open. You can go for the just the day or stay for a night or two.
Isla Holbox is one of the most laid back, peaceful, beautiful islands you will find. It's perfect for someone who wants to completely relax, read a book, watch the ocean, swim, and stroll through the town. There isn't a lot to do except during the summer months when the whale sharks are swimming off shore. You can easily get a boat trip out to the whale sharks to swim with them.
It's a rather large island at 26 miles long but only a mile wide. 3/4 of it is a National Game Preserve. There are three rivers segmenting the island and acting as a barrier for wildlife to enter the town. The population is about 2000 but growing quickly. NO Cars are allowed on the island. Rent a golf cart and drive on the beaches. If you decide not to rent one, you can hail a golf cart taxi. They are Yellow. (We had on yellow raincoats during the rainy season. Not the same as a yellow cab).
The town is really cute. Lots of fun little shops and restaurants to stop at.
We prefer to eat on the beautiful beach.
Now that you know what a great place it is, your first decision is how to get there. There are three options:
- Fly private aircraft from Playa del Carmen airport
- Take a bus
- Rent a car and drive
Here's info on flying to Holbox (they have their own small airport for general aviation)
Here's info on the bus
Driving will require a car rental.
It you decide to drive, get on the new highway and head north. There are signs in Playa pointing to HOLBOX. You will need to park at the town of Chiquila and take a boat to Isla Holbox. There is a fee for parking but, it wasn't much. I don't even remember how much. There is a ferry that seems to run at very irregular times plus there are small private boats available on demand. I've done both and the cost was the same.
A new tourist center is now open near the Chiquila ferry dock.
The drive to Chiquila is fun. Be sure to stop in the little town of Solferino to see the "about a 1000 year old" tree. It's right on the road (the only road) to Chiquila, about 15 minutes out. There are signs pointing to the right in both English and Spanish. The tree sits right on the "road" and you can get out and take photos. Across the street is a walk through the trees concession but you don't need to pay them or anyone.
Try to plan your drive early in the AM or in the evening so that you increase your chances of seeing the Spider Monkeys on the ladders over the road.
What to do once you get to Holbox
Rent a golf cart (or plan ahead and reserve one). Then just drive around on the roads and beaches. So many cute places to visit. Stop at a restaurant on the beach and order Ceviche!
If you are traveling between July and January be sure to check out the bioluminescence
If you travel between late May and August, schedule a trip to swim with Whale Sharks!
Here's your best option for enjoying your Yucatan vacation. Our beachfront condo is conveniently located to Isla Holbox and all of the other attractions.
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