Holbox

About Holbox

Holbox is a long, narrow island off the northern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, separated from the mainland by a shallow lagoon and part of the Yum Balam protected area. The streets are made of sand and golf carts replace most cars, giving the small fishing village a relaxed, barefoot rhythm that contrasts sharply with the big resorts to the south.

The beach at town is where most people spend time, with calm, shallow, greenish water and sunsets across the sea. Birdwatching is excellent around the lagoons and mangroves, and at the island's western end Punta Cocos is known for dark skies and, on some nights, bioluminescent water. To the east, a long walk through shallows leads to Punta Mosquito, a sandbar visited by birds. Boat tours combine stops at Isla de la Pasion, flamingo viewing in the lagoon and a swim at Yalahau Cenote, a freshwater spring on the mainland side. From roughly June to September, whale shark tours head out to see the world's largest fish feeding offshore. In the evening, the main plaza fills with food stalls and families.

Getting around the island is mostly by foot, bicycle or golf-cart taxi. Holbox suits travelers wanting a slow pace and nature. Mosquitoes can be fierce, especially in the rainy season.