10 Best Resorts on Isla Mujeres

Across the bay from the glittering high-rise-hotel Cancun skyline is the small, tranquil Caribbean Sea island of Isla Mujeres. Visually, it looks Caribbean, from the turquoise water to the bleached white sand and green, swaying palms, but Isla Mujeres is, without a doubt, Mexican to its core. It is one of the most laid-back destinations in Mexico, especially when compared to its neighbor across the water.

The beautiful beach resorts on Isla Mujeres make for ideal getaways, whether you're tacking Isla Mujeres on to the end of a Cancun getaway or making it the prime destination.

The best resorts on Isla Mujeres run from couples-only all-inclusives to boutique family-friendly resorts that are shrouded in jungle foliage. No matter the resort, guests are all within close proximity to some of the best beaches in Mexico, particularly Playa Norte, which is known for its shockingly white sand and string of beach hangouts that dot the sand.

On the southern end of the island, the vibe is much more slow-paced, but equally stunning. And the island is so small that visitors tend to rent golf carts to explore the entire island.

Get ready to uncover one of the best-kept secrets in Mexico, which sits in the shadow of one of its most popular tourist destinations. Here is our list of the best beach resorts on Isla Mujeres.

1. Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun

Accommodation: Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun

What is now one of the most sought-after resorts in Mexico has humble beginnings as a modest hotel and restaurant that dates back to the 1980s. Back in 2015, AMResorts purchased the hotel with the intention of elevating it to its highest Zoetry brand, while still maintaining its original authenticity and integrity. Mission accomplished. What remains is one of the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, with a Mediterranean, barefoot luxe vibe that is as approachable as it is exclusive.

The open-air design is integral to the resort's ethos, which blends indoor and outdoor spaces with luxe touches like stained glass and domed brick ceilings. The resort is located on the eastern side of the island, nestled between the ocean and a lagoon. Only 35 suites are available, and all are oceanfront, with canopied beds, marble floors, and welcome goodies for every room.

Zoetry Villa Rolandi has three pools, all facing the ocean, and surrounded by sunbeds. A pool concierge is on hand to bring refreshments throughout the day. One of the pools is a Thalasso Pool, meaning it is filled with seawater and is slightly effervescent. The beach area is small, but as private as can be, with calm turquoise water and lounge chairs with umbrellas.

Harkening back to the hotel's roots is the Casa Rolandi restaurant, which has been serving haute cuisine to well-heeled travelers for more than 30 years. Picture homemade pasta, fresh fish, and an Italian-focused menu. The other option is Le Metissage, which serves Mexican-French fusion.

As part of AMResorts' brand standard, a room rate is part of the Endless Privileges all-inclusive program, which includes all food and beverages and a free spa treatment, as well as access to the gym, kayaks, paddleboards, and boat transports from Cancun.

Address: Fracc. Laguna Mar, SM 7, MZ75, L15/16, Carr. Sac Bajo, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

2. Mia Reef Isla Mujeres

Accommodation: Mia Reef Isla Mujeres

Mia Reef Isla Mujeres is in the heart of the action, right off Isla Mujeres' boisterous Playa Norte. Technically the hotel sits on its own tiny island but is considered to be part of Playa Norte.

The trendy all-inclusive property underwent a massive renovation in 2016 and reemerged with a whole new design, from pop art decor to electric-colored accents, hanging glass lights, and, most importantly, more restaurants and brighter spaces.

Mia Reef has 156 guest rooms, all with a white color base and pops of electric pink, blue, and orange. Deluxe Ocean View rooms offer balconies and superior rooms, while Deluxe Jacuzzi Ocean View Rooms have additional amenities like, a two-person whirlpool on the terrace. For something truly spectacular, guests can book a villa or suite at the back end of the island, which offers more space and seclusion and even whirlpools on the terrace.

Even with the new renovations and deluxe amenities, the main attraction at Mia Reef is, of course, its stunning stretch of beach. Seeing as it is on its own private island, the beach is seemingly private to the resort, which is almost unheard of in Mexico. The pristine water is perfect for snorkeling right offshore. A central pool is also available, though it is considered small by resort standards. Other amenities include a spa, sauna, and small fitness center.

Address: Islote El Yunque, Zazil-ha s/n, Centro - Supmza. 001, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

3. Privilege Aluxes

Accommodation: Privilege Aluxes

Privilege Aluxes is an adults-only, all-inclusive-optional resort in Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres. Directly across from the gorgeous, iconic beach, the 124-room resort is intimate in size, but packs a punch for amenities.

The marble lobby welcomes guests to the upscale resort experience. The entire property feels clean, sleek, and tropical, from the wood and stone accents to the poolside thatched palapas. A 2016 renovation resulted in an upgraded color palette, mattresses, and guest room linens.

Guest rooms range from the standard rooms, which run on the small side, to a Presidential Suite. The most popular rooms are the Wow Rooms, which sit on the top floor and have full ocean views and spacious balconies. Guests can also book Superior Rooms, which have balconies with two-person whirlpools, or Deluxe Suites, which come with kitchenettes.

While the resort isn't directly on the beach, the property has its own private beach club, which is on Playa Norte and is free for guests. On property, guests will find the main pool, circled in cabana beds. Other amenities include a spa and salon, as well as a gym.

Four restaurants cover everything from buffets to Chinese-Japanese fusion.

Address: Adolfo López Mateos S/N, Centro, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

4. Hotel Belo Isla Mujeres

Accommodation: Hotel Belo Isla Mujeres

Recently opened, Hotel Belo is a new addition to Isla Mujeres on the island's southern end in a quiet area. The luxury boutique property has just 70 rooms and suites and is located right on a small stretch of white-sand beach.

Rooms come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all are done up with marble floors and contemporary decor. The wood furniture and bright-colored throw pillows on the comfy beds are two nice design elements. The junior suites are the entry level rooms and come with either king or double beds.

There is also an oceanfront villa perfect for families, as it comes with two bedrooms (one with a king, the other with two double beds), as well as living and dining space and a kitchen. If you are celebrating your honeymoon or a romantic occasion consider the presidential suite. It has a rooftop garden, where you'll find a Jacuzzi and sun loungers under a palapa.

The hotel can be booked as all-inclusive or room only. There are two restaurants on-site. 140° serves gourmet Mexican fusion fare. The Palm is the beach and poolside restaurant, and it offers a mix of snacks and Mexican and American fare. It is only open for breakfast and lunch, however.

5. Izla Hotel

Accommodation: Izla Hotel

Chic, modern, and minimalist, Izla Hotel looks like it's straight off the shores of South Beach, Miami. The all-white hotel features distinct pops of turquoise, whether it's from the view of the Caribbean Sea out back to the center pool, or the stunning rooftop infinity pool that offers 360-degree views.

The resort has 123 spacious rooms, all with large balconies and many with ocean views. Izla Hotel has three different room categories, including the Ocean Front Superior Honeymoon Rooms, Deluxe Ocean View Rooms, and Regal Chamber Ocean Front with Plunge Pool. All rooms have minimal furniture, with light, airy color palettes, furnished balconies, and soaking pools or tubs.

Dining at Izla Hotel is truly memorable, particularly at Izla Cafe, which offers all-day dining and a fantastic traditional Mexican breakfast. Numa is the dinner restaurant, which specializes in elevated Caribbean fare.

The main activity is down at the central pool, or up at the rooftop infinity pool. The beach is small, but clean and calm, with a few lounge chairs and day beds. Izla Hotel is located on the southern end of Isla Mujeres, so guests can expect a quiet, tranquil atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to relax.

Address: Carr. Sac Bajo, Fraccionamiento Lagunamar, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

6. Ixchel Beach Hotel

Accommodation: Ixchel Beach Hotel

Travelers looking for an intimate property right in the heart of North Beach will love Ixchel Beach Hotel. Located right on the sugary white sand of Playa Norte, this mid-range hotel has 100 supremely large rooms and suites.

Though the decor may be a bit spartan, the over-sized rooms have kitchens and balconies, which make the hotel a great option for families on a budget. Rooms to book for extra space are the one- and two-bedroom suites, which have living rooms, kitchens, and spacious terraces.

The most popular hotel feature is its beachfront location, which has a private beach area for guests, with sun beds and umbrellas. A beachfront pool is available for guests, as well. The hotel has two towers, and guests can find an air-conditioned gym in the West Tower. Wi-Fi is also included.

As for dining, Kalak Restaurant serves up a nautical theme, with traditional Mexican dishes.

Address: Playa Norte Centro S/N, Centro, 77400 Q.R., Mexico

7. Hotel Secreto

Accommodation: Hotel Secreto

Unbelievably chic and stylish, Hotel Secreto is true to its name: the best-kept secret on Isla Mujeres. Known for its elegant infinity pool, contemporary and upscale decor, and intimate 12 suites, this is one of the best resorts on Isla Mujeres that flies under the radar.

Designed for travelers who love an intimate experience, the 12-room property is known for its colorful artwork, plush furniture, and light-flooded rooms and public spaces. Perched on Playa Norte, the hotel has a small stretch of beachfront right out front.

The rooms are split into three categories, including Super Junior Suites, Deluxe Junior Suites, and Executive Junior Suites. All suites have large balconies with daybeds, tables, and chairs.

Hotel Secreto does not have any dining on-site, but it is within walking distance to many popular restaurants near Playa Norte. The hotel can also help to arrange deliveries from nearby restaurants, whether they are looking for room service or food to eat by the pool. Other amenities include a gym and a spa. But the hotel's most attractive feature is its stunning 20-meter lap pool that looks out over the sea.

Address: Seccion Rocas Lote 11, Q.R., 77400, Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

8. Hotel Bahia Chac Chi

Accommodation: Hotel Bahia Chac Chi

The 25 rooms of Hotel Bahia Chac Chi are at the perfect intersection between activity and tranquility. The resort is just two blocks from the ferry port, and a short walk to the beach and downtown. The resort embraces an open-air concept, which is fitting for the tropical paradise. Much of the hotel can be described as bland, due to the lack of thoughtful touches and artwork, but the convenient location and price are what puts this hotel on the list.

The 25 rooms are simple and clean, all with balconies, and some with ocean views. The rooms are fairly spartan, with just the basics in amenities like hairdryers, safes, and flat-screen televisions. But those who are coming to Isla Mujeres are likely not spending much time in the room.

The public areas are where this hotel shines, from its chic pool to its top-floor restaurant. The proximity to the beach is a big selling point, as well, and the hotel has pool and beach towels available for a deposit.

Address: Av Rueda Medina MZ 8-LT 12, Centro - Supmza. 001, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

9. Hotel Cabanas Maria Del Mar

Accommodation: Hotel Cabanas Maria del Mar

Tropical in every way, the pale pink Hotel Cabanas Maria Del Mar is a 73-room boutique resort just steps from Playa Norte. The charming beach resort on Isla Mujeres is classic Mexico Caribbean in design, with tile and wood accents, an oasis-type pool area, thatch-roofed palapas, and red terra-cotta tiles.

The rooms are divided into three sections: Tower, Castle, and Cabanas. All have private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and private terraces or balconies. Still, the design of the rooms seems to have been an afterthought, and there is not much remarkable about the individual rooms. Guests staying at Hotel Cabanas Maria Del Mar do so for the quiet, yet centrally located address.

While the hotel does not have an on-site restaurant, it has partnered with Buho's, which is an open-air, toes-in-the-sand beach restaurant. A simple breakfast is included in the room rate. The resort is also partnered with Casa de Luz, a nearby spa, where guests can arrange treatments.

Address: Avenida Arqueologica, Carlos Lazo #1, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

10. Nautibeach Condos

Accommodation: Nautibeach Condos

Shrouded in tropical plants and veined with sand pathways, Nautibeach Condos offers a perfect location right on Playa Norte, within walking distance to all the activity of this part of Isla Mujeres. The 23 condos look out over a central pool area, which is fringed with palapa-style huts. The pool has the best view in the house - a direct shot out to the Caribbean Sea.

Since Nautibeach's rooms are privately owned condos, the design and style of each differs from room to room. Still, wood furniture and a beachy color palette seems to be the standard. The largest rooms available are the Two-Bedroom Suites, which have their own kitchens, as well as a living room, balconies, and dining areas.

Additional amenities include in-room massages and DVD rentals. Wi-Fi is only free by the pool.

Address: Av Rueda Medina 7, Centro, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

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