Getting Around Isla Mujeres During High Season
- jo90m0
- 7 hours ago
- 4 min read
High season on Isla Mujeres runs from mid December through Easter, when the island is at its busiest and transportation can be in high demand. Golf carts, taxis and ferries often book up quickly, and traffic around downtown and Playa Norte can be heavier than usual. Planning ahead makes it easier to explore the island and enjoy your time without stress.
Golf Carts
Golf carts are the most popular way to get around Isla Mujeres. During high season they are in very high demand and often sell out, so reserving in advance is highly recommended. Consider the size of your group and whether you will need to transport luggage to and from the ferry or your accommodations when making your reservations.
When using a golf cart, setting off earlier in the day can help you avoid the busiest roads downtown near the beaches and ferry terminal. See below for tips on driving around the island.
If you are planning to rent a golf cart, now is the best time to book to guarantee one for your vacation, whether it is just for a day of exploring or for your entire stay. Relying on last-minute rentals during high season is a gamble, as availability may be very limited once you arrive.
Scooters
Scooters are a great alternative for solo travelers or couples who want to explore the island. They are easier to park and can navigate traffic more quickly than golf carts. It is important to follow local safety rules, wear helmets, and drive carefully during busy times of the day. Booking your scooter in advance ensures you have one reserved for your vacation.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available across the island, but wait times are often longer during high season, especially near the ferry terminal, beaches, in Punta Sur and Sac Bajo, and at night.
If you need to be somewhere at a specific time, it is best to arrange a pick up in advance. Taxis can also be booked ahead directly from Isla Mujeres’ ferry terminal. You can use them for dinner reservations, beach days, trips to the supermarket, or even a guided tour of the island.
Save this link for your stay and you can also book with us for last-minute pick ups during your vacation to save you waiting at the taxi stand, or for a passing taxi mid-island.
Bus
The hop-on hop-off daily bus is a convenient, although slower way to get around Isla Mujeres, especially if you prefer not to drive or rent a vehicle. It covers key areas of the island and lets you explore at your own leisurely pace. During high season, buses can be crowded at popular stops, so plan your route ahead and allow plenty of extra time.
Bicycles & Walking
Isla Mujeres is approximately 4.3 miles long, making it relatively easy to walk between many areas. Walking is especially convenient downtown and around Playa Norte, where shops, restaurants, and the beaches are all within easy reach. Other popular routes include the walk from downtown to Chedraui along the main road, the malecons on the Cancun side both downtown and mid-island, and the sculpture park in Punta Sur. Bicycles are another option, with several rental shops on the island, providing a flexible way to explore at your own pace.
It is important to note that sidewalks across the island can be uneven, blocked, or sometimes disappear entirely, particularly in busy downtown areas, mid-island neighborhoods, and Punta Sur, so walking is not always straightforward. Early morning or early evening are the best times for walking, when it is cooler and the sun is less intense. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.
Safety and Driving Tips
If you are renting a golf cart or scooter, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. You will need a valid driver’s license, which the rental company will usually hold during your rental period and return when you bring the vehicle back. Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited for both carts and scooters. Police enforce a zero tolerance policy, and you risk losing your vehicle and paying fines if caught. Open alcohol containers should also be avoided, as checkpoints are sometimes in place.
It is important to remember that rental vehicles share the roads with local traffic, including scooters and bicycles, so care and awareness are essential. Always respect the capacity of your golf cart, drive on the right-hand side to let faster vehicles pass on the left, and avoid sudden turns or stops. Always check your surroundings before turning to reduce the risk of accidents.
Parking is only allowed in unmarked areas. Red lines are off-limits for parking, yellow lines are for loading and unloading, and any sign with an “E” crossed out indicates no parking. Many streets downtown are one-way, so pay attention to stop signs, and check the direction of parked cars to avoid going the wrong way.
Planning Your Routes
Traffic and parking can be more challenging during high season, so planning your day in advance helps you get around more smoothly. Driving a golf cart or scooter is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore Isla Mujeres, offering the freedom to stop at viewpoints, beaches, and local neighborhoods. With a little care and planning, getting around during high season can be part of the fun of your trip.
Next in our high season series we will cover the best tours and excursions to book in advance, including yacht rentals, diving and snorkeling trips, catamaran adventures, fishing charters, and more.
