The 9 Best Holbox Hotels on the Beach

Isla Holbox (pronounced Hol-bosh) is an island in Quintana Roo. The car-free haven is more rugged than Isla Mujeres, Tulum, and other coastal areas of the Yucatan Peninsula, and that’s certainly part of its irresistible charm.

Pack your swimmers and your sunblock because, in this article, we’re sharing the best Holbox hotels on the beach.

Why Visit Holbox?

Holbox is one of the most beautiful places in Mexico and is a nature lover’s paradise. Yum Balam nature reserve is on Isla Holbox and is home to flamingos, sea turtles, and pelicans, among other incredible creatures. This, among many other things, makes Holbox the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of Cancun and the Yucatan Peninsula’s other big cities.

For a small island, there are lots of activities on offer to keep you entertained during your vacation. Depending on the season it’s possible to snorkel with huge whale sharks and see the Caribbean sea turn electric blue with bioluminescence. For more high-octane adventures, visitors can try their hand at kite surfing. Or, if you like your fun to be on wheels, hire a bicycle or a golf cart and explore the rugged beauty of this incredible island.

If you’re looking to relax, Holbox is the place to be. Spend a morning wandering around Holbox village or take a long walk along Punta Coco beach. If you’d prefer to be horizontal, find a quiet spot to top up your tan on the white sand beaches. Or, bag one of the many hammocks along the coastline and take a siesta in style. Then, when night falls, head to a beach bar and raise a toast to your great decision to visit Holbox.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Holbox is a great destination all year, but the best time to visit is between December and March. During this period, the weather is the most settled, warm, and dry. May is the hottest month with average temperatures of 96°F and December is the coolest at around 83.48°F.

Holbox’s rainy season is September and October and tropical showers are common during that time. Many of the island’s ‘roads’ flood during that time but it’s still completely possible to explore the island during this period if you don’t mind getting your feet wet.

If you’re hoping to see whale sharks, early June to mid-September is your best bet. For bioluminescence, consider visiting from July to January.

How to Get to Holbox

Getting to Holbox is quick, easy, and affordable. Regular ferries depart from Chiquila, a quaint town on the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. There’s not a lot going on for visitors in Chiquila so you’ll want to arrive by car or bus and head straight to the ferry terminal.

Most visitors come from Cancun or the surrounding areas and hiring a car is a popular travel option. Since Holbox is car-free you’ll need to leave it in Chiquila but parking is secure and affordable. Another easy option is to hop on a bus from Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or any other major hub on the Yucatan Peninsula. Schedules can be found online and the coach-style buses are affordable and safe.

Once on the ferry, the crossing takes around 20 minutes and golf cart taxis can be found at the port when you arrive on the island.

Now, let’s get sucked into talking about the best Holbox hotels on the beach.

1. Palapas del Sol

This beachfront property combines authentic Mexican decor with superb comfort to create an unforgettable island getaway.

Six beachside cottages form this cozy hotel and provide guests with lots of space and privacy. The palm-thatched roof and tiled flooring of each cottage have been designed to fit seamlessly with local architecture, helping you feel at home on Isla Holbox. Hammocks on every terrace are ideal for relaxing and enjoying the cooling sea breeze after a morning spent exploring the island. Rooms are extremely well-appointed, have powerful air-conditioning, and are fitted with mosquito nets on the windows for additional comfort.

The pool is the perfect spot for a dip and offers excellent views of the spectacular coastline. The on-site restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and there are plenty of other dining options nearby. Playa Holbox is just 40 meters away and guests can enjoy access to a private beach area. The town and its amenities are also within walking distance, giving you easy access to the best of Holbox Island.

Top amenities include:

• Hammocks on each terrace
• On-site restaurant
• Pool with coastal views
• Private beach area

Check availability for these authentic beach cottages here.

2. Villas Caracol

Head north on Holbox Island and you’ll stumble upon the irresistible charm of Villa Caracol. The suites at Caracol are elegant, contemporary, and extremely spacious. While some offer a pool view, others are beachfront. Suites with al fresco spa baths are also available for ultimate luxury.

The outdoor pool is nestled among palm trees and opens out onto the seafront for breathtaking ocean views. There’s plenty of space for guests to relax and much of the area is shaded for when you need a break from the Mexican sunshine. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property including around the pool area, should you want to send vacation updates to friends and family back home.

Located on Playa Norte, guests can take advantage of a peaceful private beach area with ultra-comfy Balinese beds and loungers. There’s also a restaurant and bar which is open until early evening and offers themed dinner nights and happy hour each day. Breakfast is offered there to all guests. This location is also just a five-minute drive to the ferry terminal so it’s convenient if you’re traveling with family or with lots of luggage.

Top amenities include:

• Private beach area
• Beach bar and restaurant
• Rooms with outdoor spa baths
• Shaded outdoor pool

Check availability for this contemporary hotel here.

3. Beachfront Hotel La Palapa

This rustic adults-only hotel combines Mexico’s famous chilled vibes with lots of comfort and amenities to create a fantastic base for your next vacation.

Guests love that the rooms are bright, spacious, and clean. Air conditioning is available in each room and the bathrooms have interesting touches such as faucets made out of sea shells. Most rooms also offer spectacular ocean views from their terraces, making them the perfect spot to enjoy Holbox’s beautiful sunsets.

Heading out of your room, you’ll be greeted by a tropical garden and terrace. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and breakfast is offered each morning. There’s also a games room and luggage storage on-site, and wellness packages can be arranged at an extra charge. Just a few meters further and you’ll find yourself with your toes in warm, white sand. In addition to the on-site restaurant, there are lots of drinking and dining options on this stretch of the beach so you’ll be spoilt for choice at mealtimes.

Guests love Beachfront Hotel La Palapa because it’s also situated extremely close to town. A huge array of activities can also be organized by the hotel’s tour desk, including horse riding, fishing, and cycling. If you like to explore on vacation, this is a great spot for you.

Top amenities include:

• Rooms with terraces
• On-site restaurant
• Tour desk
• Games room

Check availability for this rustic adults-only hotel here.

4. Holbox Casa Punta Coco

This four-star adults-only is the perfect location for a kid-free, sun-soaked vacation in Holbox.

There are several room types to choose from and all are beautifully appointed. Each accommodation option is spacious, clean, and decorated in a fresh and contemporary style. Some rooms have spa baths and many offer stunning ocean views from their private terraces.

The outdoor pool is set back from the beach and surrounded by lush tropical gardens, creating a tranquil vibe for guests. Access to the private beach area is quick and easy if you prefer to spend your days by the ocean. A continental breakfast is included and lunch and dinner can also be provided on request.

There are lots of activities on offer to guests who want to make the most of Isla Holbox. The area around Casa Punta Coco is popular for snorkeling, and visitors can also try their hands at windsurfing, cycling, and fishing.

Top amenities include:

• Rooms with spa baths
• Private terraces
• Free continental breakfast
• Activities are available

Check availability for this modern adults-only hotel here.

5. Hotel Villas Flamingos

If you’re looking for five-star luxury, Hotel Villas Flamingos is one of the best hotels on Holbox.

This tropical beachfront property boasts rooms that have to be seen to be believed. The complex is well spread out, giving guests a sense of seclusion. Bungalows feature indoor pools with panoramic sea views and private gardens with outdoor showers. And, the honeymoon suite includes a hot tub, a private balcony with a hammock, and incredible views of the Caribbean sea from the bed. What could be more romantic? If you’re traveling with a group, the self-contained four-bedroom villa is the perfect setting for making memories with friends and family.

Once you’ve managed to tear yourself away from your room you’ll find two outdoor swimming pools and access to the pristine sands of your private beach area. There’s a bar and restaurant on-site offering free continental breakfast and food during the day. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and activities such as kayaking and snorkeling can be arranged for an additional charge.

Top amenities include:

• Rooms with indoor pools
• Two outdoor pools
• Free continental breakfast
• Private beach

Check availability for this stunning luxury hotel here.

6. Hotel Mawimbi

For an authentic Mayan vibe within a minute’s walk of the beach, Hotel Mawimbi is a great option.

There are several accommodation options available to suit your individual requirements. Standard double rooms are cozy and offer outdoor seating, and many of the balcony rooms offer beautiful sea views. All rooms have well-stocked bathrooms, are superbly clean, and have lots of authentic Mayan features for an authentic Mexican experience. Pets are also allowed at Hotel Mawimbi, and the bungalows feature a double room and sofa bed if you’re traveling as a family and need some extra space.

The on-site bar serves tasty food and drinks and the location of Hotel Mawimbi gives guests great access to the best of Isla Holbox’s local cuisine.

Top amenities include:

• Balcony rooms with sea views
• On-site restaurant
• Pet-friendly hotel
• Free Wi-Fi in public areas

Check availability for this authentic Mayan hideaway here.

7. Casa Las Tortugas Petit Beach Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking for a family-run hotel with heaps of luxury, Casa Las Tortugas Petit Beach Hotel & Spa is one of Holbox’s best hotels.

The rooms in this four-star hotel are incredibly stylish and are constructed to feel like individual huts rather than hotel rooms. Inside them, you’ll find white, airy spaces based around wooden accents and natural fabrics. Family rooms can be found in the form of beautiful beachfront huts, or couples can indulge in a master suite and enjoy the spacious room and private balcony.

Wellness and relaxation are at the heart of the Casa Las Tortuga concept, and with daily yoga classes and the option to book treatments, you’re certain to ditch all your worries at the door. The on-site restaurant serves high-quality food and the bar’s aesthetic is so good you might find it difficult to leave. If you do manage to drag yourself away, you’ll find a tranquil outdoor pool with plenty of space and seating. Stroll a few steps further and you’re on the beach. Perfect!

Top amenities include:

• Family rooms and luxurious suites
• Daily yoga classes
• Outdoor pool
• On-site restaurant with international food

Check availability for this stylish spa hotel here.

8. Casa Cat Ba Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Casa Cat Ba Beachfront Boutique Hotel is another fabulous adults-only option for couples and groups seeking kid-free fun.

The bar and lounge area is the perfect place to relax with a margarita at sunset, and there’s also a beautiful terrace to chill on. Playa Holbox beach is just a short walk away and you can go from room to ocean in a matter of seconds. If you’re in the mood for a change of scenery, Punta Coco is just 2.3 KM away.

Rooms at Cat Ba are bright, stylish, and extremely comfortable. Each one features powerful air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and stunning sea views. Private bathrooms are equipped with showers and bathrobes, and some rooms also offer a seating area.

Casa Cat Ba Hotel features a concierge desk for anything you might need during your stay, and the friendly staff is more than happy to give you the best tips for visiting Holbox’s famous Yum Balam nature reserve. Activities on offer (for an additional charge) include snorkeling, windsurfing, and fishing, and there are board games on offer should you fall foul of a rainy day.

Top amenities include:

• Bar and lounge area
• Rooms with sea views
• Concierge desk
• Free continental breakfast

Check availability for this beautiful boutique hotel here.

9. Ser CasaSandra Boutique Hotel

The last option on our list is Ser CasaSandra Boutique Hotel and there’s no way that we could overlook this beautiful four-star property.

The rooms at CasaSandra are truly beautiful. The ceilings have exposed wood beams and the big beds are equipped with mosquito nets. The hand-made furniture is authentically Mayan, and pops of bright colors bring Mexico’s famous vibrancy into the room. Every room also has a private balcony.

The on-site restaurant serves Mexican and international cuisine in sophisticated surroundings. There’s also a bar offering snacks and drinks throughout the day. The terrace and outdoor pool provide guests with a tranquil area to relax in, and the tour desk is on-hand if you’d like to book activities. Stroll down to the private beach area and you’ll be rewarded with idyllic white sands and comfortable cabanas to relax in.

Top amenities include:

• Rooms with private balconies
• Outdoor pool and terrace
• Gourmet restaurant
• Private beach with cabanas

Check availability for this four-star hideaway here.

Plan Your Beach Trip to Holbox

Our top nice hotels on the beach in Holbox make fantastic bases for an island adventure you’ll never forget. With options for adults-only, families, and pets, there’s something for everyone on this list and you’re sure to have a wonderful time. 

The only problem you’ll have is tearing yourself away from Isla Holbox at the end of your trip! Disfruta (enjoy)!