How to get to holbox from cancun? everything you need to know

Holbox Island is one of the favorite destinations in the Riviera Maya. Are you planning a trip and wondering how to get to Holbox from Cancun? Here we answer the best way to get to this incredible destination in Mexico.

Where is Holbox located?

Holbox, a charming island in the state of Quintana Roo, is part of the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve and has a small community of approximately 1,500 inhabitants. The island is 40 kilometers long and only 2 kilometers wide, with 34 continuous kilometers of beach. Located off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the distance between Cancun and Holbox is 145 kilometers. Therefore, the best way to make part of this trip is with car rental in Cancun.

Thanks to its privileged location, Holbox has become an essential destination for those touring the Riviera Maya. This paradisiacal corner, with its extensive white sand beaches and turquoise waters, invites you to relax and enjoy an environment that is difficult to leave.

How to get to Holbox from Cancun?

If you fly into Cancun International Airport, which is only 20 kilometers from downtown, you can rent a car and take the Cancun-Holbox route. This option allows you to enjoy a more flexible route and the possibility of exploring other interesting stops along the way.

The most convenient way to go to Holbox is by sea: both ferries and private boats leave from the Chiquilá pier and the trip usually takes about 20-30 minutes. The trip between Cancun and Chiquilá covers a distance of approximately 145 kilometers, which will take you about two hours by car. When you arrive at the pier, you will find several parking lots within 500 meters, where you can safely leave your rental car and pick it up when you return from your visit to Holbox.

If you are in Playa del Carmen, it will take you about 1.5 hours to get to Chiquila: the trip is 130 kilometers, so you can do it perfectly by car. If you are traveling to either of these two points, you can take advantage of both Cancun car rentals and Playa del Carmen car rentals, not only to visit Holbox, but also to visit all the attractions that these two destinations in the Riviera Maya have to offer.

What to do in Holbox?

Now that you know how to get to Holbox from Cancun, it's time to plan the must-do activities in this paradise. We tell you what activities to do on the island to make the most of your visit.

Relax on its beaches

Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, fine sand and sea breeze that will make you fall in love immediately. Holbox's beaches offer a unique haven of serenity, perfect for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle and immersing yourself in an atmosphere of absolute calm.

Explore the mangroves and local fauna

Holbox is home to an impressive biodiversity. You can take a kayak tour through the mangroves to observe exotic birds, flamingos and even crocodiles. This experience is perfect if you are looking to connect with nature.

See the spectacle of bioluminescence

Bioluminescence is a magical phenomenon that occurs on the darkest nights. If you managed to organize your trip from Cancun to Holbox in time, be sure to book a night tour to enjoy this natural spectacle.

Explore the waters of Holbox with the whale sharks

The island of Holbox is a privileged destination in the Caribbean to admire whale sharks up close. Snorkeling with these gigantic creatures is an adventure that combines adrenaline, amazement and respect for nature.

With bodies that can exceed 10 meters long, whale sharks may look intimidating, but they are completely harmless. Discover how to experience this unique encounter while exploring all that Holbox has to offer.

Enjoy the local cuisine.

Holbox has a delicious gastronomic offer that includes fresh seafood. Dishes like lobster pizza are ideal to recharge your batteries after exploring the island. If you travel from Cancun to Holbox, don't forget to try them!

Discover the Yum Balam reserve

Yum Balam, one of the most important protected natural areas in Mexico, surrounds the island of Holbox with a unique biodiversity. This natural site boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, from jaguars and howler monkeys to toucans and flamingos, making it a must-see destination if you are a nature lover.

Visit the hammocks and swings

One of the most relaxing experiences you can enjoy when traveling from Cancun to Holbox is spending time in the iconic hammocks and swings that adorn the island's beaches. These spaces have become popular meeting points for travelers looking to unwind, relax and take in the scenery.

Enjoy the nightlife

Although Holbox is known for its quiet and relaxed atmosphere, the island also has an energetic nightlife that will surprise you. Its bars and restaurants offer a wide variety of options if you are looking to enjoy the night, from live music and special events to beach parties.

Now you know how to travel from Cancun to Holbox, just put together your itinerary, start your adventure today and discover all that this island has to offer!