Mexico · Quintana Roo
Punta Sur, Isla Mujeres
Punta Sur is the wild southern tip of Isla Mujeres: cliffs over crashing Caribbean water, a sculpture garden, a small Mayan temple to the goddess Ixchel, and the first spot in Mexico to see the sunrise. The quiet opposite of Playa Norte.
Best season
November to April; arrive at opening (8 am) for the best light and no crowds.
What it costs
Very cheap. Entry around 6 USD, golf cart rental for the day about 40-50 USD.
Getting there
Ferry from Cancun (Puerto Juarez or the Hotel Zone) to Isla Mujeres in 20 minutes, then a 15-minute golf cart ride south down the island.
Getting around
Golf cart is the classic Isla Mujeres way; taxis run the length of the island for a few dollars.
Highlights
- Cliff walk with iguanas sunning on the rocks
- Temple of Ixchel, the small Mayan ruin
- the sculpture garden
- sunrise - the first in all of Mexico
Local tips
- Go early - by 11 am the tour groups arrive
- bring cash for entry and carts
- combine with Playa Norte for sunset on the same day.
What to eat
- Fish tikin-xic at a beach shack on the way back north
- fresh ceviche
- a michelada with a sea view.
Where to stay
- Stay mid-island or at Playa Norte and ride the cart south for the morning.
Sample itinerary
Sunrise at the cliffs, walk the sculpture garden and temple, breakfast back in town, then the afternoon on Playa Norte - Punta Sur is a perfect half day.