Isla Mujeres became popular in the 50's, before tourist developers even envisioned Cancun or Cozumel would become the world-class resorts they are today. Ever since those early days several hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars have been operating successfully on the island and have continued to be modernized over the years.

Isla's best beaches are on the northern most tip of the island, near the downtown area, and the pristine sea that surrounds them is as calm as a giant swimming pool. To the south lies the Garrafon National Park amidst the archaeological ruins of the Temple of the Goddess Ixchel. Also close by are the Sculpture Park, an open-air gallery, as well as breathtaking natural attractions, such as panoramic cliff views, and bountiful coral reefs teeming with marine life, ideal for snorkeling. For the more experienced, and certified divers are the reefs of Punta Norte and Manchones to the south, as well as the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks, and the sites of two sunken ships, the Ultrafreeze and a naval craft.

Also worth visiting are the Turtle Protection Center, committed to the preservation of this endangered species, and the remains of the famous pirate Fermin Antonio de Mundaca's estate. Mundaca, who was a dreaded Spanish buccaneer and slave trader, plundered the Caribbean for years until he eventually decided to settle here, and according to legend, he later fell madly in love with a Mayan Indian girl, who rejected him and left him heartbroken and depressed for the rest of his life.

Nature is certainly bountiful on Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Cancun that boasts amazing natural as well as manmade attractions, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. There are many vantage points on Isla Mujeres from which you can see stunning sunsets and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, cozy hotels and restaurants located downtown, a Marine Park with world-class facilities, and a haven for snorkelers with an incredible underwater world teeming with tropical fish, their bright colors nurturing the senses.

The architecture of Isla Mujeres has a distinct Caribbean feel, the houses are one or two stories high with brightly painted facades that stand out against the cobbled streets and the intense blue hues of the sea and sky, like a beautiful picture postcard.Due to the thriving commercial activity, downtown Isla Mujeres is like a huge market displaying an array of items that exemplify Caribbean art such as necklaces made of coral, sea shells and rocks, small containers with white sand and snails, and numerous other items.
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The shops on Isla Mujeres feature Mexican art from different parts of the country ranging in style and price, from Oaxacan black pottery, to fine Talavera ceramics from Puebla, and sarapes or blankets from Saltillo to delicate silver items from Taxco. There is also handmade bark paper, and utilitarian wooden objects and basketry.  In addition, there are a couple of art galleries that sell original paintings and sculptures by local as well as foreign artists. Jewelry stores with fine silver and gold pieces made both in Mexico and abroad, and boutiques that carry perfumes, clothing and designer sunglasses, completes the list of stores on offer.