Introduction to Isla Mujeres

Only a brief boat ride from the swarming beaches of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a very different world. Bathed in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, the sleepy island attracts visitors who prefer a laid-back lifestyle focused around the beach and water sports such as diving and snorkeling. Its namesake is translated as "the island of women," but few islanders agree on the origin. While Isla Mujeres has a healthy nightlife, relaxed isleños frown upon spring break antics; if you're looking for parties, stay in Cancun.

Beaches

Playa Norte, which runs along the northernmost edge of town, is ideal for relaxing with a cool beverage or wading in the waist-deep water. For stunning views over the Caribbean Sea to Cancun, head to Playa Lancheros, on the southern side of the island. Enjoy the spectacular sunset from Zama Beach & Lounge, on the southwest shore. With a manicured beach, pools, restaurant and bar, there's almost no reason to leave the club once you arrive.

Things to Do

Fans of ancient cultures can tour the crumbling Maya temple, thought to be dedicated to Ixchel, goddess of fertility. Linger to amble through the multicolored sculpture garden. Get up close to sea turtles at the Tortugranja, a sea turtle sanctuary that contains several enclosures to protect the marine reptiles. Pass over the downtown T-shirt stores in favor of boutiques where you can shop for Mexican artworks from Day of the Dead skeletons to sea glass jewelry.

Eating and Drinking

The culinary specialty on this five-mile island is seafood, best enjoyed at a beach restaurant such as Velasquez and Cockteleria Justicia Social, where you can sink your feet into the sand. Don't miss the local favorite, tikin xic -- whole fish marinated in achiote and sour oranges, then wrapped in a banana leaf and cooked in an earthen oven. While tequila isn't made on the island, it's the most popular spirit here, especially when included in freshly made margaritas.

Nature

Divers and snorkelers have a wealth of sites to discover on Isla Mujeres, and the preferred spot for diving is the Sleeping Shark Cave, where slow-moving sharks congregate in a deep cave. Snorkelers prefer the calm, shallow water of the island's western side, with Lighthouse and Manchones being the best spots to see the coral reef. Take a day trip to Isla Contoy, a national park with mangrove lagoons and more than 150 species of birds.