Isla Holbox, known for its scenic beaches, calm waters and laid back vibes, is one of our must-travel destinations post-lockdown.
Getting There
Located just north of the Yucatan peninsula on Mexico’s south-eastern coast, and just a car ride from Cancun Airport to the ferry of Chiquila, this idyllic island boasts a wealth of activities and things to do. Pay less than £10 for the 25-minute ferry ride across to the island for a greeting-by-golf-cart upon arrival, ready to transfer you to the property of your choice – totally worth it!
But where to stay? Well, that’s easy (if you ask us!)
For the best beachfront location on the island, friendly and attentive service and cloud-like beds, we know a fantastic family-run boutique hotel on the island, only a 3-minute walk from the main square and a 5minute ride from the ferry terminal. Casa Las Tortugas. Indulge in barefoot luxury at this must-stay spot on the island.
Tip: Try to plan your trip around the new moon so you can experience the monthly new moon ceremony on the beach !
Arrival Experience
Expect a welcome experience that will leave you feeling as though you have returned home, with a gift bag and some mystery seashells… we won’t ruin the surprise, but the team at casa Las Tortugas do a great job of making you feel instantly at home.
You will have a selection of locally produced, eco-friendly amenities in the room to enjoy. Of the hotel’s 24 individually decorated rooms which are set around a courtyard, you will have views of the beach, pool and/or yoga studio depending on your room allocation. The hotel restaurant (&bar) stretches out on to the beach, which becomes a beautiful spot by night when lit up by candles, lanterns and fairy lights. By day, spend your day swinging on the beach hammocks and chaises-lounges, ordering delicious fish tacos with the most glorious guacamole and the freshest fruit smoothies to ever touch your lips. Make sure to stick around for the sunset, cocktail in hand..
Dining
Breakfast is included and served at Mandarina, offering fresh juice and hot drinks, a basket of homemade pastries with butter and homemade jam (the pineapple one was delicious), one plate of fresh fruit with yoghurt and homemade granola or the breakfast of the day. The perfect way to start your day.
The rest of the day, Mandarina offers a full-day fusion of Mediterranean, South American and Caribbean delights. You literally don’t need to leave the beach!
AMA is the rooftop restaurant, serving sushi and cocktails. What more do you need in life?! A view? Not a problem from this spot, trust us.
Across the road you will find LUUMA which offers a selection of tapas and cocktails in a patio-setting. Very popular spot on the island so don’t miss out!
What to do?
Casa Las Tortugas is located very close to the main square of Holbox – only a 3-minute walk! With no cars on the island, you have the option to explore by foot, rent a bike or jump in a taxied golf buggy to get around. The square gets quite busy at night
At night, there are plenty of things going on throughout the islands wildly understated bars and restaurants, mixed with street foods for a full culinary experience. A great spot for cocktails on the beach is Salma. The staff will not only welcome you but share a wealth of knowledge on different daily excursions you must experience based on your preferences. Expect all the local tips on whale shark excursions, bioluminescence and kite-surfing adventures.
Spa
The hotel also has a spa, with massage rooms and yoga/meditation classes, in addition to a swimming pool which is often deserted leaving you with a feeling as if it’s just you and the pool. Serenity.
Get in touch
It’s easy to see why the likes of Forbes, Vanity Fair and The Telegraph have all flagged this family-run hotel as a must stay in Holbox. Overall, the hotel is great for anyone looking to unplug from the world with a laid-back barefoot luxury experience on one of Mexico’s most beautiful islands. Head to Isla Holbox post-lockdown, whilst you can still enjoy the islands untouched nature and natural beauty.
