Marina Solutions

Itinerary Excursions

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is located just 10 km off the coats of Cancun and clearly visible from the bay shore of Cancun’s hotel zone. The island is 7.5 km. (5 miles) long by an average 500 km. (1640 ft) width.

The ancient Maya visited the island, though evidence tells that prior to the conquest they never lived there. It was probably a pilgrimage site and the single ruin, a small fragment on the island’s southern tip, suggests the name. Francisco Hernández de Cordova landed in 1517 to find the place deserted and the beaches covered with female figures, hence the name, which translates “Island of Women”. The name is never used in translation, however, and is shortened to Isla by the locals. Pirates hid in the island’s natural covers throughout the lawless days of the 17th and 18th centuries, and the Allies had a base here during WW II. People began arriving in the 50s and today tourism is the island’s main source of income. But never fear, Isla has lost none of her charm. She is wholly unspoiled by success.