Snorkeling and Isla Mujeres | Paradise

For my family, the half-day excursion to Isla Mujeres ranks #1 in all excursions to date. In fact, we’ve taken this excursion twice. The memories made will last a lifetime: snorkeling the crystal clear gulf waters, riding the waves of the catamaran at sea, hanging out at the Black Pearl’s beach bar, moving the white sand between your toes, drinking an ice cold Dos Equis beer, and appreciating the most amazing sunsets. In one word…total paradise.

We’ve taken this excursion in both June and February, and each trip was completely different. The February excursion was better in my personal opinion, because of the timing of the sunset. The catamaran left the island just as the glowing orange sun rays set below the ocean’s horizon. As we traveled back to port, the sky grew darker, and everyone sat on the bow of the catamaran, just peacefully quiet, listening to the sound of the waves hitting the ship’s hull and appreciating the tranquility and beauty of this particular moment in time.

In comparison, the June excursion was a full blown sailing party. Because the sun sets later in June, everyone on board enjoyed the drinks, laughter, smiles, and party music. Spirits were high, having just spent a beautiful day at sea.

Lunch is served on this excursion. Please make sure to bring coral reef friendly sunscreen. The Mexican government prohibits tourists from wearing sunscreen harmful to ocean life, so make sure your sunscreen is coral reef friendly. You will need the protection, as the sun’s ultra-violet rays are much stronger in Mexico than back in the states.

During both trips, Jennifer and I enjoyed the beach and quality time together hanging out at the Black Pearl, where the boat docks upon arrival to the island. There are public restrooms and places to sit on the beach with covered tables, or you can sit under a covered roof section. There are servers at the Black Pearl to wait on you, and the drinks are not overly expensive considering the high tourist area.

You can rent a golf cart if you want to ride around the island. However, you have plenty enough time to walk around the island if you choose. My father and mother in law and daughters walked around the island together taking pictures. The side opposite from where the boat docks consists of a rocky shoreline, where the locals go. The boat will dock in a high tourist area.

I simply cannot recommend this excursion enough. I hope you make many wonderful memories and take an equal number of beautiful pictures with your family.