Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is the quintessential Cancún family day trip, and honestly, many families say it's the highlight of their entire vacation. This small island (just 4 miles long and half a mile wide) sits about 8 miles off the coast of Cancún, accessible by a 15-20 minute ferry ride from several terminals on the mainland.

The ferry experience itself is part of the fun for kids — modern, air-conditioned boats with open upper decks where you can watch Cancún's skyline shrink and the island appear. Ultramar and Xcaret Xailing are the main operators, with boats departing every 30-60 minutes from Puerto Juárez (cheapest), Gran Puerto, and several Hotel Zone terminals. Round-trip tickets run about $28/adult and $21/child (ages 6-11), with kids under 5 free.

Once you arrive, do what every family does: rent a golf cart. The rental shops are steps from the ferry terminal, and at about $65/day, it's the most fun and practical way to explore. The island has one main road that loops around the perimeter, and kids absolutely love cruising it. There are no highways and minimal traffic, so the golf cart pace feels safe and relaxed.

Playa Norte, at the island's northern tip, is the star attraction. This beach is consistently ranked among the best in Mexico and the Caribbean, and one visit explains why. The sand is fine and white, the water is impossibly turquoise, and — most importantly for parents — the water stays calm and shallow for a long distance out.

Toddlers can wade, older kids can splash, and parents can actually relax knowing there aren't strong waves or undertows. Beach chairs and palapa shade are available from the restaurants lining the shore.

Drive your golf cart south along the island to Punta Sur, a clifftop park ($3 entry) with dramatic ocean views, large-scale sculptures, and the remains of a temple to Ixchel, the Maya goddess of the moon and fertility. It's a quick stop but photogenic and interesting for kids.

For families with kids 6 and up, a snorkeling excursion is a must. The reef off Isla Mujeres has healthy coral and colorful fish, and some tours include a stop at MUSA's underwater sculpture garden. Expect to pay about $49/person for a 3-hour snorkel trip.

The island's town center has a walkable downtown with restaurants, shops, ice cream parlors, and street art. It feels safe and laid-back, and wandering around with an ice cream cone is part of the island experience.

Budget about $150-$250 for a family of 4 depending on whether you add snorkeling and how you eat. The ferry, golf cart, and Playa Norte are the essentials, and you could do a fantastic day for under $175 if you pack snacks and skip the paid activities.

If you only have time for one excursion from your Cancún hotel, Isla Mujeres is consistently the top family recommendation — and for good reason.