Tranquil Suites and Mexican Fare Along Stony Shore

Just off the coast of Cancún lies Isla Mujeres, which translates to “island of women”—Spanish explorers named the place after finding it rife with idols and images of goddesses. Most of these were representations of Ixchel, the Mayan deity of the moon, midwifery, and medicine. Today, ancient temples still dot the island’s rocky shores. Nearby, Casa Ixchel pays tribute to its supernatural namesake with tranquil suites and a focus on wellness, evident in its free yoga classes held three times weekly.

Because the hotel has only 10 suites, its owners affectionately call it a “hotelito,” or little hotel. Its small scale allows them to focus on making each room unique—the Love suite, for instance, features a bed suspended from the ceiling and surrounded by gauzy curtains. In the Bliss suite, a mosquito-net canopy hangs over the bed, and in the bathroom, you’ll find a marble shower. From the Grace I suite, you can look out onto the ocean. Many of the suites have full kitchens, and all share a dreamy color palette of creams and whites.

In the morning, Da Luisa restaurant serves a menu of traditional Mexican egg dishes. There’s huevos motuleños, served atop tortillas and beans, and huevos chilaquiles, an egg casserole layered between chips and salsa. You can eat in your room or carry breakfast to the palapa-shaded terrace, where you can watch waves crashing onto the stony outcroppings below. Through September, you can often see whale sharks coming to terms with their split identities offshore.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico: Historical Mayan Island near Cancún

The laid-back island of Isla Mujeres, located just off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is only about 5 miles long and less than a half mile wide. You can easily travel across the whole thing by bike or golf cart. During your explorations, be sure to pay a visit to the sandy stretches of Playa Norte, which Frommer’s named one of Riviera Maya’s best beaches. The town square is right next to the sand, making it easy to hit up local vendors’ stalls for tacos, tamales, and tikin xic, a dish made from fresh fish basted in an achiote paste. Wash it down with a spicy michelada. Things are pretty quiet on Isla Mujeres, but if you’d like to experience Yucatán nightlife, simply hop aboard a ferry for the 15-minute ride to Cancún.

Near the southern end of the island lies Garrafon Natural Reef Park, where you can explore the Caribbean by kayaking or snorkeling through barrier reefs. At Punta Sur Cliff on the island’s southern tip, visitors can roam a sculpture garden, explore the remnants of a Mayan temple, and admire beautiful views of the bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to travel to the hotel from the airport? The nearest airport is Cancún International Airport (CUN). Ferry transportation from Puerto Juarez or Gran Puerto Cancún to Isla Mujeres is about 70–80 pesos ($5.50–$6.30) one-way per person.

2. Is there an additional occupancy fee, or do I have to purchase another Groupon? The Groupon covers two guests, and no additional occupants are allowed in the Groupon-valid suites.

3. Which activities and amenities are included in the resort credits? No resort credits are included in this Groupon.

4. Are dinner reservations required for restaurants? Is there a dress code? For information regarding your dining options, please click here.

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