Peaceful Beachfront Resort with Yoga Pavilion on Isla Mujeres

Located in the Caribbean Sea about 8 miles northeast of Cancún, the island of Isla Mujeres surprises and charms those looking for a pleasant, laid-back alternative to its neighbor across the sea. The island’s turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and nearby reefs with colorful creatures set the scene for Hotel Na Balam, a wellness retreat near the beach. The resort seeks to bring its guests peace through nature—lush gardens spread throughout the property, and there are daily yoga sessions where you can feel the sea breeze while pursuing physical and spiritual serenity.

Inspired by traditional Mexican and Mayan designs, Hotel Na Balam’s guest rooms include hand-carved wooden decor. Ocean-view rooms provide picturesque views of the Caribbean, and poolside rooms place you near the resort’s gardens. Relax on a hammock strung beside the one king bed or two queen beds. Bathrooms come with organic, handmade bath products made from aloe vera, oatmeal, and honey.

Located under a palapa right on the beach, Zazil Ha restaurant treats diners to breakfast, lunch, and dinner while they take in exquisite views of the coast. The restaurant is especially romantic for dinner: you can watch the sunset from the patio, and candles light it up afterward. In addition to Mexican specialties, you can choose from a range of international entrees and an extensive wine list. You can also grab a cocktail or a beer from the beachfront lounge or dance the night away with the DJs at the nearby Fenix Lounge.

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? By plane: about 40 minutes from Cancún International Airport (CUN); Isla Mujeres is located off Mexico's mainland; door-to-door shuttles from the airport to the hotel are available for an additional fee per person; includes taxi and ferry-boat transfers.

2. Is there an additional occupancy fee, or do I have to purchase another Groupon? $40 per night for each additional guest 13 or older; up to two kids 12 or younger stay free.

3. Will I be approached to attend a timeshare sales presentation? Groupon customers are never obligated to attend a sales presentation. If you are approached and decline a presentation, you will not lose the value of your Groupon or have to pay additional fees.

4. Which activities and amenities are included in the resort credits? Resort credits are not included in this deal.

5. Are dinner reservations required for restaurants? Is there a dress code? Reservations are recommended for Zazil Ha, the onsite restaurant. Dress code is casual.

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