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The Beaches of Cancun and the Mayan Riviera

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Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres

© Cancun Canuck
A thriving island just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a hot spot for travelers and day-trippers from the mainland. Playa Norte or North Beach is a hip locale with cozy beach clubs and beautiful calm, shallow waters. Perch on a swing at the bar or rent a beach bed with a canopy and you'll meet people from around the world. Yachts and boats anchor offshore to join the throngs of sun bathers on the beach.

The beach on Isla Mujeres is suffering erosion, but it is included in the plans for restoration in the spring or summer of 2009. Snorkeling excursions to the nearby reef are a must; some incredible sites for discovering coral formations and sea life surround the island. Rent a golf cart and give yourself a tour of the island. Be sure to hit Punta Sur or South Point, it offers some spectacular views of the sea, waves crashing on the rocky cliffs and a large population of iguanas. You'll feel like you're on the edge of the world.

The island boasts many small hotels in town and on the beach, and some larger resorts have started to pop up or are in development. Isla Mujeres is a popular destination for longer term trips with many vacation apartments available to rent. The center of town has many small shops and restaurants; there are ATM's and banks and many amenities.

Next: Isla Blanca

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