“Isla mujeres” (The island of women) is the given name to this privileged place which combines the beauty of the Caribbean, the thick tropical jungle and the wonderful heritage of the Maya civilization. Formerly used by the Mayans as a sanctuary to worship their goddess of love and fertility Ixchel, “Isla mujeres” has its own legend. It is believed that its name was given by the Spanish when they arrived to the Island and then found a series of women statues carved in stone which were made by the Mayan as a monument to Ixchel.

Another legend also has it that the island was used as a refuge by the pirate and slave trader, Fermin Mundaca, who built a beautiful hacienda here to try to make a local island girl fall in love with him. The ruins of the construction are a reminder of those times gone by.

In recent times the island was populated by fishermen until the building of Cancun which opened up opportunity for growth however the island still remains quaint while most of the building takes place on the Mayan Riviera.

Isla Mujeres Restaurants and food

Most of the restaurants are located on the pedestrian walkway which you can walk from end to end in under 15 minutes so you can scope out almost every restaurant in town before making a decision where to eat.

Elements of the Island

Elements of the island has created a new oasis in downtown Isla Mujeres, a tranquil spot with tropical gardens and fountain, just a block from the island's famous North Beach. New this season Elements offers an ambiance where contemporary Mexican architecture meets Asian décor and clarity, creating the perfect place to relax and restore your body and soul.

Angelo

An Italian restaurant in the town center, Angelo offers an enticing selection of antipasti, pasta, grilled seafood, and wood oven-baked pizzas. Everything at Angelo's is prepared according to traditional recipes, and since the owners personally attend to you, guests always enjoy an excellent dining experience.

Rolandi's Pizzeria

Whenever you visit Isla Mujeres (the island across Cancun), don't forget to visit Rolandi's Restaurant & Pizzeria, where all the atmosphere of the Mexican Caribbean and Italian Cuisine mix in an exquisite combination of great taste and an unforgettable experience. The specialty, as the name implies, is the stone baked pizza and also garlic bread. Open for lunch and dinner, Pizza Rolandi's is always a great choice for authentic Italian flavors in Isla Mujeres.

Don Chepo

If you want an authentic Mexican dining experience then Don Chepo is the place to go. Their specialties include tacos, juicy steaks; a flank steak called 'arrachera', and grilled cheese tacos served with tasty salsas. Don Chepo is located in the heart of Isla Mujeres, on Hidalgo Av.

Casa O's

 Casa O's Restaurant in beautiful Isla Mujeres, México extends a warm welcome to all our island visitors. The restaurant is based around a huge oceanfront Palapa, which is surrounded by manicured gardens and pathways illuminated by torches and while eating dinner, you can watch the sky go from intense blue to red, and a little later turn black.

Local Services on Isla Mujeres

All services you need to make your stay safe and comfortable.

Internet

There are many places on Isla that offer internet service. Some combine the service with other offerings, some specialize strictly in internet.

Mail

There is a post office located in the downtown area of Isla Mujeres on Avenida Guerrero at Mateos.

Travel Agency

There are a couple travel agencies located on Isla Mujeres. You can get services for confirming flights, airline tickets, bus tickets and tours.

Currency Exchange

There are several places to exchange money on the main streets downtown. These places normally provide a better rate than you can get at the airport.

Banking

You’ll find Isla's only bank, HSBC in front of you as you leave the ferry dock. There are also ATM machines inside.

Doctor

There are several English-speaking doctors available on the island.

Pharmacy

There are several pharmacies on the island.

Taxi

The taxi stand is right next to the ferry dock. You can catch a cab from here to anywhere on the island for a reasonable price.

Bike/Scooter/Golf Cart Rental

There are plenty of places to rent any of the above. Car rentals do not exist on Isla, nor are they needed. The island is a comfortable size for any mode of transportation above.

Laundry

There are several laundry services located in the downtown area.