Holbox

Holbox (Isla Holbox) is a small island off the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The island is located in the Gulf of Mexico and is part of the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve. Holbox is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Facts Holbox

  • Holbox is about 42 kilometers long and only a few kilometers wide.
  • The island is surrounded by crystal-clear, turquoise waters and is home to a diverse fauna, including flamingos, pelicans, turtles and numerous tropical fish species.
  • Due to its status as a nature reserve, Holbox is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
  • There are no paved roads, only sandy paths that are used by golf carts and bicycles. After heavy rainfall, it can sometimes take a while for the water to drain away again.
  • The island’s main town offers a selection of cozy hotels, restaurants and bars serving seafood and local specialties.
  • Like many other places in Mexico, Holbox is known for its impressive murals that enliven the streets of the island with color and creativity.
  • In addition to the relaxing beaches, the island is a popular destination for water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
  • From June to September, whale sharks roam the waters around the island.

Travel time Holbox

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
17°-27° 17°-28° 18°-30° 20°-32° 21°-33° 22°-33° 22°-33° 22°-33° 22°-32° 21°-30° 19°-29° 17°-28°
Holbox has a typical tropical climate with a distinct dry and rainy season. The dry season lasts from November to April, the rainy season from May to October. Holbox has warm to hot temperatures all year round.

During the rainy season, especially between August and October, there can be heavy rainfall. These rains can lead to flooding and affect some activities. The hurricane season in the Caribbean lasts from June to November. Although Holbox is not hit by hurricanes as often as other areas, there is still a risk of storms and strong winds during this time.

One of the main attractions of Holbox is the possibility of seeing whale sharks. The best time to see whale sharks is from June to September, when they come to feed in the waters off Holbox.

Events Holbox

All holidays like in Mexico.
June – September: Whale shark season

Transfer

2018 | 2019 | 2022

The transfer to and from Holbox is exclusively by ferry via Chiquilá.

Sights & Facts

  • Chiquilá is a small coastal town in the state of Quintana Roo and the main transfer point for Holbox.
  • The ferries from Holbox Express or 9 Hermanos run regularly, although the timetables may vary depending on the time of year.
  • A crossing takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the weather.
  • On Holbox, visitors are usually greeted by waiting golf caddy cabs and taken to their accommodation via bumpy roads.
  • Depending on the distance to the accommodation and the luggage carried, the route can also be covered on foot.
  • The center can be reached relatively quickly from the harbor . Bicycles and golf carts can also be hired here.

Centro

2018 | 2019 | 2022

The Centro of Holbox is located in the heart of the island of the same name. It is the central area where most of the hotels, restaurants, stores and tourist facilities are located.

Sights & Facts

  • The atmosphere in the Centro of Holbox is relaxed and laid-back, as people spend most of the day by the water.
  • There are numerous restaurants offering a wide range of dishes, from seafood to Mexican cuisine.
  • Some stores offer souvenirs, beachwear, handicrafts and other items.
  • Most visitors explore the center on foot or by bike.
  • The Parque Central is a large square in the Centro where various events take place.
  • The Centro offers accommodation in various price categories, from simple guesthouses to luxurious resorts.
  • The island’s beaches are just a short walk away.

Playa Holbox

2018 | 2019 | 2022

Playa Holbox, also known as Holbox Beach stretches along the coast of Holbox Island and is one of the island’s main attractions.

Sights & Facts

  • Playa Holbox is known for its natural beauty and unspoiled environment.
  • Fine, white sand and the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Caribbean invite you to relax and swim.
  • There are various beach bars and restaurants along the beach offering a wide selection of food and drinks.
  • In the evening, Playa Holbox offers spectacular sunsets over the sea.

Sunset

2018 | 2019 | 2022

The sunset on Holbox every evening is a spectacular play of colors and an unforgettable natural spectacle that attracts people to the beach. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, the island provides the perfect backdrop.

Sights & Facts

  • A popular place to experience the sunset in all its splendor is Playa Punta Cocos at the western end of the island.
  • You also have a good view of the natural spectacle from the west side of Playa Holbox.

Punta Mosquito

2019 | 2022

Punta Mosquito is located at the eastern end of Holbox and is a remote natural area surrounded by mangrove forests. Punta Mosquito can be reached from Holbox Centro on foot or by bike in one to two hours.

Sights & Facts

  • Punta Mosquito is part of the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
  • The area is an important bird sanctuary for flamingos, herons, pelicans and many other species.
  • Punta Mosquito is known for its pristine beaches and tranquil lagoons.
  • The waters are shallow and offer ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and kitesurfing.
  • The lagoons and mangroves provide a habitat for a variety of water birds that breed here or stop off on their way to their winter quarters.
  • Punta Mosquito is a paradise for ornithologists, who can observe and photograph numerous bird species here.

Three Island Tour

2019

The Three Island Tour (Tour de Tres Islas) is a popular boat tour that departs from the island of Holbox in Mexico. The tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore three islands near Holbox.

Sights & Facts

  • The Three Island Tour is usually offered as a full-day tour and often includes lunch and snacks.
  • The tours are organized by local providers and usually include transport by boat or boat cab between the islands.
The tour includes the following islands:

  • Isla de los Pájaros – The island, whose name translates as “bird island”, is known for its rich bird life. Visitors have the opportunity to observe a variety of birds, including flamingos, herons, pelicans and many other species. The island is also an important breeding ground for various species of waterfowl.
  • Yalahau Lagoon – Surrounded by mangroves, Yalahau Lagoon is a natural freshwater lake (cenote) fed by underground rivers. The lagoon itself is rather unspectacular, but crocodiles can sometimes be seen in the mangrove forests.
  • Isla de la Pasión – Isla de la Pasión is a small island with an idyllic beach and crystal-clear water. Visitors can spend time on the beach, snorkel, swim or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. The island is also known for its spectacular sunsets.