Playa Norte is the main public beach of Isla Mujeres, at the north end of the island next to the town centre. Fine white sand runs between palm trees and shallow, calm water that stays around waist height a long way out. There is almost no current, so swimmers and beginner snorkelers can use it easily. Bars, restaurants and rental stands line the sand, and the sun sets over the sea toward Cancun. From the ferry terminal the beach is within walking distance, and many visitors give it half a day.
The sand and the water
Playa Norte lies on the north side of Isla Mujeres, a small island about 7 km long. The sand is fine and white, and a line of palm trees backs the beach. The island faces Cancun across the bay, and the water here is sheltered and calm.
The seabed slopes gently, and you can wade out a long way with the water still at waist height. There is almost no current. That is why the beach suits small children, nervous swimmers and anyone trying snorkeling for the first time.
The beach runs along the northwest edge of the island. Some locals count the neighbouring Playa Centro as part of it. The beach also goes by the names Playa Cocos and Nautibeach.
Snorkeling from the shore
You do not need a boat to see fish at Playa Norte. Colourful fish gather within about 200 feet of the shore, and the clear water gives good visibility.
One spot people like is by the rocks next to the wooden bridge that links the Mia Reef hotel with the beach. Fish are plentiful there, and just beyond the rocks, where the waves break, a natural pool forms that suits adults and children.
The marine life is not as abundant as on a boat trip to an offshore reef. Some boat tours include a second snorkeling stop at Playa Norte after the reef, so the beach also works as an easy add-on to a day on the water.
What is on the beach
Playa Norte is the most developed beach on the island. Outfitters rent snorkel gear, kayaks, lounge chairs and beach umbrellas, and hotels and restaurants rent chairs and parasols too. Beachfront bars and restaurants line the sand, so food and drink are easy to find without leaving the beach.
The site also has a lifeguard, a playground, public restrooms, picnic tables, a barbecue grill and a volleyball court. Dogs are allowed. There is a paid parking lot on site.
Privilege Aluxes runs a beach club on the sand that accepts day visitors as well as hotel guests. Fish tacos and ceviche are on the menu there.
Getting there and staying around
Ferries from Cancun arrive at the terminal in the town centre. Playa Norte is within walking distance, and a taxi or a rented golf cart is the alternative. Most of the island's hotels, restaurants and shops sit in this northern area, so you can walk almost everywhere without arranging transport.
The area near the beach is lined with bars, restaurants and shops, and wandering on foot is pleasant in itself. Prices in this northern part of the island run higher than elsewhere.
The island is small, but many travelers plan more than a day trip here. A long beach session and a bar-hopping evening fill a day easily, and a longer stay leaves time for the rest of the island.
Sunrise, sunset and the next beach
The beach faces north, so it is among the first on the island to catch the morning sun and among the last to lose the evening light. Isla Mujeres is also one of the few places in the Mexican Caribbean where you can watch the sun go down into the water. The sky turns pink, orange and sometimes purple, with Cancun on the horizon.
If you want a quieter place for the sunset, Playa Sol, the next beach over, is a calmer alternative.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee for Playa Norte?
Playa Norte is a public beach, and watching the sunset there costs nothing. Chairs, umbrellas and snorkel gear are rented separately from outfitters and hotels.
How do you get to Playa Norte from the ferry?
The beach is within walking distance of the ferry terminal in the town centre. You can also take a taxi or rent a golf cart.
How long do you need at Playa Norte?
Plan on 3 to 4 hours for swimming, snorkeling and a meal at a beachfront restaurant. Many visitors stay until sunset.
Is Playa Norte good for snorkeling?
Yes, especially for beginners. The water is clear with almost no current, and fish swim close to shore. Boat trips show more marine life.
Is Playa Norte suitable for children?
Yes. The water is shallow and calm, and there is a lifeguard, a playground and public restrooms on site.
Are dogs allowed on Playa Norte?
Dogs are allowed on the beach.
