1. Isla del Carmen
2. Cozumel Island
3. Marietas Islands
4. Espíritu Santo Island
5. Holbox Island
6. Isla Mujeres
1. Isla del Carmen
Located in Campeche state, this is currently Mexico's most populated island stretching 22 miles long. Accessible by air, sea, and land (via highway from Tabasco to Campeche), you'll find beaches like Puntilla, Bahamita and La Manigua - each featuring restaurants, palapa huts and turquoise waters with live music. For aquatic adventures, visit Punta de San Julián where you can ride banana boats at high speed.
2. Cozumel Island
You've likely heard of this paradise repeatedly - for good reason. Situated in the Mexican Caribbean facing the Yucatán Peninsula, Cozumel is among Mexico's most famous islands thanks to lush beaches and vibrant marine life. It's also a major cruise and ferry stop.
Book diving experiences here - the surrounding coral reefs are a top scuba diving destination. Click here for beginner courses. You can also charter private yachts or take catamaran tours (options here).
3. Marietas Islands
This national park island cluster is Nayarit's most famous coastline feature. Its circular rock formation surrounds the "Hidden Beach" or "Beach of Love" - now a must-visit Pacific coast attraction and Instagram hotspot (you'll instantly see why). Reach this extraordinary site via speedboat or yacht tours with guides sharing the islands' history (tour options).
Make stops to snorkel in Pacific waters during your excursion.
4. Espíritu Santo Island
Now to Baja California Sur - this UNESCO World Heritage Site earns its status through breathtaking beauty. The coastline's dramatic landscapes feature volcanic ash layers creating unique formations. Enjoy completely undeveloped beaches like Playa Partida and Playa Mesteño. Rent boats to explore the island and snorkel in the Gulf of California.
5. Holbox Island
This 25-mile-long island with 21 miles of golden sand stuns visitors with its beauty and tranquility. Located in Quintana Roo bordering the Yucatán Peninsula, you'll want to ditch your phone and simply sway in a hammock while admiring Caribbean waters. For activity, try family-friendly kayaking along the coast (rentals & tours).
This paradise deserves a top spot on your bucket list.
6. Isla Mujeres
Arguably Mexico's most complete island offering everything: adventure sports, cultural sites, Mayan ruins, and obviously paradise beaches. Just 6 miles from Cancún, access it via boat charters/guided tours or ferry. Visit Garrafón Marine Park for snorkeling/zip-lining, and don't miss Playa Norte - considered the state's most beautiful beach with its white sand/Caribbean blue water contrast.
Fun fact: Legends say the island got its name ("Women Island") from Mayan women visiting to make fertility offerings to goddess Ixchel.
Now that you've read this, which island will you explore first? Share your experiences with us!
