Top things to do in Holbox

Top things to do in Holbox – 2022.

Holbox is an island north of the Yucatan Peninsula that is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve. Holbox in Mayan means “black hole.” This beachy, uncrowded paradise covers an area of 40 km long and 2 km at its widest point, and its northern beach extends for about 34 km.

In recent years it has gained a lot of popularity because of its stunning natural surroundings and an authentic mix of a bohemian-yet-glamorous vibe, and it’s becoming a top travel destination for adventure and relaxation travel and one of the best-hidden gems in Mexico.

Even though Isla Holbox is a real gem, very few people from the U.S know about it, but if you go and you like to mingle with other tourists, you will meet tourists from Mexico City, Canada, and Europe.

So, don’t wait and plan a trip to Isla Holbox before it becomes overdeveloped and overrun by tourists.

Holbox offers plenty of things to do, but the main thing you should do is do nothing. Relax, have a beach day, sleep in one of Holbox’s famous hammocks, and enjoy local food and drinks. You will feel energized to return to your busy life away from paradise.

If you want to combine some relaxation with other things, check out these other options.

Swim with Whale Sharks

The Whale Shark is on the endangered species list, so having the opportunity to swim with these magnificent creatures will leave a strong impression. An adult whale shark can reach 12 m long and can weigh up to 20 tons, making them the largest known fish, and baby whale sharks are very playful and known to play with swimmers.

The Yucatan peninsula is one of the places where you can swim with these large harmless creatures. 

The best time to swim with the sharks is between June and September. Tours leave from Cancun, Isla Mujeres, or Holbox.

See Bioluminescent water at night

Have you ever seen glowing blue water? If not, you must check out the bioluminescent waters of Holbox at night.

One interesting critter that lives in the water of some of Holbox’s beaches is the phytoplankton of Holbox. These tiny plankton are bioluminescent, making the water glow blue or green and appear as millions of bright specks when agitated by waves or disturbed by any movement.

Caused by microscopic phytoplankton, the water glows blue when agitated by waves or splashing. The best ways to experience bioluminescence are by night snorkeling or night kayaking. Very, very cool!

The best time of year to see this phenomenon is during the summer when there is no moonlight, and the southern beaches are best for viewing, especially Punta Cocos.

Be lazy and relax on the beach

As mentioned before, the main thing you should do is do nothing. Relax, have a beach day or several, sleep in one of Holbox’s famous hammocks, and enjoy local food and drinks. Here you will find plenty of beaches to choose from and a bunch of sea hammocks scattered around. Chilling in one of those hammocks while half of your body is in the ocean will make you feel in paradise, even better if you make sure someone brings you the drink of your preference.

Punta Cocos is the island’s best-kept secret. Located in the west end of the island, this beautiful virgin beach with no hotels, one basic bar, hammocks, a swing, and away from everyone and everything is the perfect place to relax, meditate and admire the beach and the best sunset views. The water is super shallow, you can walk for a while, and it will be barely above your kneecap.

Punta Mosquito, located on the east side, is the perfect place to walk on beautiful sandbanks during low tide and admire the crystal-clear water.

Punta Holbox runs the length of the small town and has amenities such as beach chairs and a fishing pier.

Try Kitesurfing

Holbox is famous for this exciting water sport, especially during winter. If you are already experienced in the sport, you will easily find your favorite spot to soar. For beginners, Holbox’s shallow waters with no big obstacles, a wide coastline, and easy wind conditions will make it easy for you to learn.

Three Island Tour

This is another popular thing to do in Isla Holbox. This 3-hour boat tour will take you to Isla Pajaros (Bird Island), Isla Pasion (Passion Island), and the Yalahau Cenote. It will provide you a wonderful way to experience firsthand the island’s nature and its surroundings.

At Isla Pajaros, you won’t be allowed to walk among the birds as it is a protected area. Still, there are a dock and viewing platforms for watching and photographing the flamingos, horned bills, pelicans, and many other species.

In Isla Pasion, you’ll be able to wander on the island, go hand fishing, spot wildlife.

Finally, you will be able to visit the Yalahau Cenote (sinkhole), where you’ll spend a good amount of time swimming and exploring the freshwater. 

By the way, there are many legends surrounding Yalahau Cenote, including piracy and buried treasure.

Take the Cabo Catoche Tour

Cabo Catoche is the most Northern point on the Yucatan peninsula and part of the protected Biosphere. This is where the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico meet. It is an excellent place for snorkeling and seeing wildlife, but you can also go fishing, walk through the mangroves and visit Mosquito Point.

Chill at a Beach Club

There are several beach clubs along the gorgeous beaches of Isla Holbox, and they are happy to receive guests. Sunbeds are available but have a minimum spend per person.

Check out the unique street art

There are Caribbean vibes all over the island, including street art. Many artists from all around the world created authentic pieces of art all over the island, which add color and vibrancy to the island.

Interesting fact: Holbox made a name for itself as an art hub in 2014 with the International Public Art Festival.