After recently travelling to this dreamy island, I have put together the perfect itinerary to enjoy the BEST 4 days in Holbox. With a mix of adventurous activities and relaxing on the beach, you’ll experience the most well-rounded time in Holbox that you can!
A 25-minute boat ride off the Mexican coast, lies the small island of Holbox with dirt roads, pristine blue waters, beautiful beaches, and the most gorgeous cafe culture you can imagine.
Isla Holbox is located just North of the Yucatan Peninsula. The island is known for its impressive natural beauty and the fact that there are no cars on the roads, just golf carts and motorbikes. It perfectly blends the sleepy beach town vibes with a spice of adventure and a hip nightlife scene.
I recently spent 4 days in Holbox and each day felt like a dream. That’s why I have put together this comprehensive 4 day Holbox itinerary to share the best way to spend your time and all the best things to do on the island. Read on for the most perfect, well-rounded 4 days in Holbox.
How Many Days Do You Need in Holbox?
How long you spend in Holbox really depends on how much you want to see and do there. I believe if you want to explore the best that the island has to offer, while still maintaining a semi-relaxing beach vacation, then 4 days in Holbox is the perfect amount of time.
How to Get to Isla Holbox
Despite being a small island, it is incredibly easy to get to Isla Holbox. You can take an ADO bus from wherever you were previously staying in the Yucatan peninsula to the town of Chiquila.
Popular bus route times:
- From Cancun: 2.5 hours
- From Vallodalid: 3 hours
- From Merida: 5 hours, 15 minutes
- From Playa del Carmen: 2.5 hours if you can take a direct bus or about 4-5 hours if you transfer buses in Cancun
Once you arrive in Chiquila, you will take a 25-minute ferry ride from the town’s port to Isla Holbox. There are two ferry companies that rotate departures every half hour. You do not need to purchase your ferry tickets in advance, simply show up at the booths right outside the bus station or at the port and buy tickets for the next available ferry.
If You Are Travelling There Directly From Cancun Airport:
Taking a private transfer to Chiquila is the easiest and most straightforward way to get to Holbox from the airport. However, it is still really easy to get there with public transportation.
Take a taxi or one of the ADO buses from the airport to the main ADO bus terminal in Cancun, where you can then catch a bus to Chiquila.
When is the Best Time to Visit Holbox?
The best time to visit Isla Holbox is often considered between late November – February/March. This is the dry season where the heat is manageable and there is very minimal precipitation. However, there are seasonal activities that might make you stray from peak season. If you are interested in swimming with whale sharks or witnessing the bioluminescence at its peak, then the best time to travel to Holbox is between mid-June and September. This is the rainy season, so the temperatures and humidity will be higher.
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The Ultimate 4 Days in Holbox (Full Itinerary and Guide)
Day 1: Manta Rays, Amazing Restaurants, and Bioluminescence Magic
Exquisite Breakfast and Ambience at Mr Happy
Begin the first of your 4 days in Holbox with a delectable breakfast at Mr. Happy. I’m emphasizing specific restaurant recommendations because dining experiences are a huge part of Holbox’s charm. This trendy island boasts a number of amazing places to eat and drink along with fantastic atmospheres, each a unique experience in itself.
Mr. Happy epitomizes this vibe perfectly. With its hip design that feels like you’re sitting in a garden oasis, the restaurant also offers fantastic food and the best Chai Latte I’ve ever tasted. We found ourselves returning multiple times to savour the beautiful environment. Additionally, Mr. Happy has great wifi, which is a rarity in Holbox.
Walk the Sandbar to Punta Mosquito
After a great first impression of the island, head off on a journey to spot manta rays along Holbox’s sandbar. One of the best things to do in Holbox, this scenic stroll takes you through shallow waters parallel to the island. The water ranges from ankle to waist-deep as you go.
Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic manta rays that gracefully glide through the clear blue waters, as they often frequent this area. Witness an abundance of other marine life, such as schools of fish and birds nose-diving into the waves to find their next meal.
The walk takes approximately 1.5 hours each way and is a true adventure. Upon reaching Punto Mosquito beach, take a well-deserved break to bask in the sun and admire the stunning turquoise waters. Note the nearby nature reserve and make sure you don’t pass any signs marking its boundaries.
Upon returning from your hike, unwind for the remainder of the afternoon.
Sunset at the Main Beach (Playa Holbox)
Isla Holbox is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, drawing crowds to the beach each evening to collectively enjoy the spectacle. On your first night, make your way to the pier near the iconic Isla Holbox sign and enjoy the sunset from the town’s main beach. This spot offers one of the best places on the island to take it all in. You can choose to sit on the beach or grab a drink at a nearby beach club to join many others as the sky erupts with colours.
Mouth-Watering Dinner at Barba Negra
One of the best restaurants in Holbox, Barba Negra’s delicious food had us coming back for more… several times. This is a great restaurant for people seeking the most amazing food on the more affordable side. The tacos are next-level delicious (my personal favourite was the baja fish taco), the drinks are refreshing, and the atmosphere is fantastic.
Play with Stars on a Bioluminescence Tour
One of the best things to do in Isla Holbox is experience bioluminescence. Tours run at either 8 or 9:30 pm and take you on an adventure to a remote beach with zero light pollution. You’ll be picked up in a golf cart taxi and taken on a super fun ride through the mangrove forests to reach the beach.
Once at the beach, a guide will show you all the different constellations in the sky. With minimal light pollution, the stars are magical in this spot and you can even see the Milky Way. After a short demonstration, you will have a chance to get in the water and see the bioluminescence for yourself. Splash around and marvel at the tiny “stars” in the water.
Day 2: Dogs on the Beach, The Perfect Beach Restaurant, and a Paddle Boarding Adventure
Walk Adorable Rescue Dogs on the Beach
Another amazing thing to do in Isla Holbox is to volunteer walking shelter rescue dogs on the beach! There is a local shelter called Refugio Holbox Animal Sanctuary that has two large timeslots each day where they accept volunteers to come meet, play with, and walk their adorable dogs.
The shelter staff are passionate and truly care about the dogs they are looking after. They also know the dogs personally and will give you a dog most suited to your comfort level for walking. There are no obligations as to how long you need to walk, you simply take them out for a nice stroll on the beach for however long you’d like. I loved this experience so much, I went back again the next day!
Lunch On the Beach at Cafe del Mar
After a feel-good morning, make your way to my favourite restaurant on the beach. Cafe del Mar is a simple yet stunning little beach restaurant on the west beach. It has a basic grass hut built over the tables with a cute little beach bar. The food is much more affordable than all of the other beach restaurants and really delicious as well. It’s in a nice quiet spot with fantastic views over the water. This is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.
Paddleboard Along the Sandbar
In the afternoon, rent a paddleboard for about 300 pesos from any of the tour shacks on the beach and get out on the water. Isla Holbox is known for its calm tranquil waters, so it’s the perfect conditions for paddle boarding.
You can enjoy the water in one spot or paddle yourself back along the sandbar you were at yesterday to catch glimpses of the manta rays from above. According to locals, this is the best way to see the manta rays and other marine life in the area.
Enjoy the Sunset at the West Beach
For tonight’s sunset, we’re mixing it up by heading back to the west beach near Cafe del Mar. Cement piers stick out into the water, making for an excellent spot to sit and watch the sunset. Being further West on the island, this beach supposedly has some of the best spots to catch the sunset. And if you’re thirsty, grab a fresh coconut cut open right in front of you by one of the passing beach vendors.
Check out Holbox Nightlife at Hot Corner
If you are interested in checking out the vibrant nightlife scene in Holbox, Hot Corner is the place to be. This restaurant hosts live music every night starting at 9 pm and is known for its incredible vibes. I’ve heard sometimes the salsa dancing can even spill out into the streets. They also have fantastic cocktails.
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Day 3: Yoga with a View and a Bicycle Ride to the Best Sunset Beach
Breakfast at the Famous Painapol
Painapol is known as one of the best breakfast/brunch spots in Holbox. Featuring a more healthy and fresh menu, they are known for their custom paninis and refreshing homemade juices and smoothies. They have more imaginative dishes and some of the most aesthetic flowery plating.
Try a Unique Yoga Experience
After a delicious healthy breakfast, continue to nurture your mind, body, and soul with a yoga class. I always believe that even if you don’t practice yoga regularly yourself, it is still super fun and relaxing to experience yoga in the most beautiful places. Join a class on the beach with ocean views or one of the studios surrounded by greenery.
There are a few places that offer yoga classes in Holbox:
- Beach Yoga Holbox
- Colibri Yoga Holbox
- Holbox Yoga
Rent Bikes and Go to Punta Cocos Beach for the Afternoon and Sunset
For the afternoon, rent some bicycles from one of the many shops in the town centre and go on an adventure to Punta Cocos Beach.
Punta Cocos is located about a 40-minute walk or 15-minute bike ride from Holbox’s town centre. This beach is more remote with fewer visitors because of the little journey it takes to get there. There are some hammocks on the beach and only a few little beach clubs. Stay into the evening, enjoying the quieter atmosphere.
Due to being the most west-facing beach on the island, Punta Cocos is known as the best spot to watch the sunset. Grab a hammock and a beer from a nearby beach club and enjoy the view.
Pro Tip: If you are biking, be aware you’ll probably have to get off and walk certain sections due to the massive puddles on the roads. But it’s an adventure!
Day 4: A Wild Boat Tour or Swimming With Whale Sharks
For the fourth and final day of your 4 days in Isla Holbox, I’m going to add in a couple different options depending on the time of year you are visiting.
If You Are Visiting During Peak Season Between November – March:
Take a boat tour for your final day of the trip to explore more of the remote sections of Holbox, its beautiful nature reserves, and small nearby islands. The most classic boat tour option is the three islands tour that takes you to:
- Yalahau Lagoon, where you can swim in the cenote that according to legends has magical youthful properties
- Isla de la Pasion, which is known as the corner of lovers and features beautiful tropical beaches
- Isla Pajaros, where you’ll explore the island’s diverse species such as flamingos, pelicans, and ducks.
This boat tour is an excellent way to get to know the remote parts of the island and is a day filled with gorgeous nature.
If You Are Visiting During the Rainy Season Between June – September:
If you are visiting between June and September, otherwise known as whale shark season, I highly recommend you take part in a whale shark tour. You’ll have the unique opportunity to snorkel or free dive beside these stunning gentle giants of the sea. This is one of Isla Holbox’s most famous activities and is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Other Optional Activity – Visit Yum Balam Nature Reserve
Take a wild golf car taxi ride to the Yum Balam Nature Reserve to enjoy your own private beaches and the island’s local wildlife. Located at the far end of the Holbox beach, you’ll find the entrance to the Yum Balam Nature Reserve. There is a small entrance fee of about 110 pesos to get in, but then you can wander along the quiet beach until you find the perfect spot.
This side of the beach will feel more like a natural environment with flora and fauna surrounding you.
Pro Tip: Don’t wander past the barriers and cross the river because there are crocodiles!
Helpful Tips for Visiting Isla Holbox
Do I Need Cash for Isla Holbox?
You will definitely need some cash when visiting Holbox, however, most of the restaurants and stores accept credit cards at this point. Access to getting more cash on the island isn’t ideal with only 1 or 2 ATMs that sometimes run out of cash. You definitely want to make sure you have a decent chunk of cash as a backup. Occasionally, restaurant machines may experience connection issues in which case cash would be your only option.
We brought about 6000 pesos for 2 people and 4 full days and only ended up spending about 2500 of that.
Is There Wifi on Isla Holbox?
There is some wifi on Holbox but it is not reliable or very strong in most places. There are a few cafes where you can find a decent wifi connection such as Mr. Happy or Another Clandestino but most restaurants do not offer it.
Do I Need to Book My Tours in Advance?
You definitely do not need to book any tours in Isla Holbox in advance. There are numerous tour operators on the island located all along the beach to choose from. We were able to book tours the day of or the day before. If you are traveling during whale shark season, I’d say you likely still don’t need to book in advance. But if you are travelling here for that purpose it doesn’t hurt to ensure you get a spot in advance.
Is Holbox Safe?
Yes, Isla Holbox is considered a very safe destination in Mexico. Walking around at night in Holbox is not an issue. Of course, like anywhere, use common sense and don’t carry a ton of cash with you.
Are the Mosquitoes Bad in Holbox?
There are lots of mosquitos in Holbox, however, if you are there during peak season they are not that bad. I never found them to be overwhelming at all. I got a few bites but nothing crazy. During the rainy season, they will definitely be a lot more annoying. Bring some bug spray no matter the season!
Is Holbox Walkable?
Absolutely. Isla Holbox is a tiny island and everything is within reasonable walking distance.
Plan Your Trip to Holbox – Logistical Tips:
📱 Stay Connected Without Expensive Roaming Fees
I never travel without an E-Sim now. Stay connected at a fraction of the price of roaming fees, and my favourite part, you can simply down the E-Sim to your phone and don’t have to switch SIM cards around. The service I always use is Airola.
🚍 Book Your Buses in Mexico
The local bus websites are often only in Spanish and are very glitchy. I used Busbud to book all my bus tickets in Mexico because they actually offered the exact same rates as buying them in person with the added bonus of your tickets being secured in advance.
🏠 Book Your Accommodation
Hostelworld is the best place to book hostels, whether you are staying in a dorm or a private room. They offer great environments to meet people and many will also offer activities. If you prefer hotels, Booking.com is great for finding the cheapest rates.
🏄♀️ Book Your Tours and Excursions
The best search tool I use to book tours in Mexico is Viator. It has the largest selection of tours with local operators and offers flexible cancellation.
Final Thoughts on the Perfect 4 Days in Holbox
Spending 4 days in Holbox is the most perfect way to enjoy everything this incredible island has to offer and still find time to relax. From discovering remote beaches to spotting manta rays and whale sharks, Holbox delivers the most magical natural beauty to your beach vacation. The relaxed island atmosphere and delicious cafe culture add to it all to make it easy to unwind in paradise.
I hope this itinerary has provided you with the ultimate guide to make the very most of your tropical 4 days in Holbox. Follow this plan and I promise you’ll leave feeling completely recharged, already longing to return.
* Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. I only recommend products and companies that I use. Thanks for the support!
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