Isla Holbox

Holbox is a dramatic barrier island up the coast from Cancun. In recent years, the little vacation area has grown to be something of a chic fashionable legend, but a jewel it remains. The Caribbean meets the Gulf of Mexico, somewhere off of this coast - and in the mix dreams seem to take flight.

Vacationers head for Holbox because the natural beauty is nothing short of spectacular. The island has no pavements or even any big buildings. Even the streets seem to be that powdery white sand. Most business takes place in little cabanas and huts, and people get by just fine.

It's still very much a luxe vacation haunt, and not for the posh-averse. The Yum Balam Protected Area covers nearly the entire territory, and that restricts development, and keeps things fresh. Swimming with the visiting whale sharks is encouraged from May through September. A bio-luminescent phenomena lights up the night time sea for when you feel prepared to say things really went over the top. Isla Pájaros is still visited by vibrant flocks of pink flamingos, in addition to their human admirers.

It really is as dramatic as all of that. Visitors take off for the Tres Islas, the nearby Punta Mosquito or stick closer for the abundant spa and rejuvenation services offered in and outside of nearly every resort. They're all boutique, discreet, and inviting. 

Holbox is Bohemian, and then some. People get here through the airport at Cancun, and most hotels will offer airport service. The Puerto de Chiquilá offers boat service a few times a day. Airport transfers will usually combine the ferry-van trip into a package rate. From the Tren Maya at Nuevo Xcán, the trip takes a little more than an hour in a taxi and there is no word yet if the combis will start making the trip.