Is Isla Contoy worth it? Yes, if you like nature and want a calm day, not a beach club one. It's a national park about 30 kilometers north of Isla Mujeres, with no hotels, no roads and no permanent residents. You get mangroves, nearly untouched beaches, short trails and a huge number of birds.
It's not for anyone looking for parties or services on the sand. It's a day of boat, snorkeling and light walking. If that sounds like you, take a look at the Isla Contoy tour.
How do you get to Isla Contoy?
Only by boat, on an authorized tour, from Isla Mujeres, Cancún or Puerto Juárez. There's no public transport to the island. If you're staying in Cancún or elsewhere, message us on WhatsApp and we'll point you to the departure point and how to get there.
Book ahead: only 200 people a day get in
The park limits visits to 200 people per day to protect the ecosystem. That's why the island stays so well preserved, and also why spots sell out. In high season, book several days ahead, or weeks ahead if you travel during holidays.
What will you see on Isla Contoy?
It's one of the main nesting and refuge sites for seabirds in the Mexican Caribbean: frigatebirds, pelicans and cormorants, with an observation tower overlooking where the frigatebirds nest. Sea turtles nest here too, mostly between April and October.
On the way there's a snorkel stop at Ixlaché Reef. The water is shallow and the coral comes close to the surface, so it works even if you're just starting out.
When is the best time to go?
The tour runs year-round. For turtles and warm water, May through October; to avoid sargassum, some guides recommend January through May, but it changes week to week. My advice: ask how the coast looks before you book. June 1 through November 30 is hurricane season, and a departure may be canceled or rescheduled because of weather. It's for safety.
Sunscreen: the rule that surprises people
To protect the reef and wildlife, on our tour it's banned inside the park and in the water. Put it on at home, at least 30 minutes before you arrive, and wear a rashguard, a hat and sunglasses. Rules can change, so confirm when you book.
What does the Isla Contoy tour include, and what should you bring?
Our full-day Isla Contoy tour includes boat transport, snorkeling, a naturalist guide, a buffet-style lunch and park entrance with taxes. Some operators charge the park fee separately and in cash, so when you compare, check whether it's already included.
Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel, a camera or binoculars for the birds and some cash for tips. It works well with kids: the lagoon beach is calm and the trails are short, but the day is long, so bring shade.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit Isla Contoy on my own?
Only with a park permit and an authorized boat. The simplest way is an authorized tour, which handles that for you.
Why only 200 visitors per day?
Because Contoy is a reserve and a nesting sanctuary. The national park sets the cap to protect the ecosystem.
How long is the Isla Contoy tour?
It's a full-day tour. Our departure is at 8:30 AM and you return to Isla Mujeres in the afternoon.
What is the best time to go?
You can go year-round: May through October for turtles and warm water, and January through May if you want to avoid sargassum. Ask about sea conditions before you book.
Can I bring sunscreen?
On our tour it's not allowed inside the park or in the water. Apply it at home well in advance or wear UV-protective clothing.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, it's a very calm outing, but a full day: bring shade and breaks for the little ones.
Want to go?
Message us on WhatsApp with your date, where you're staying and how many of you are going, and we'll help you plan the trip. If you still have questions about your trip, read Is Isla Mujeres Safe?.
Updated October 2026.