2 Days in Holbox: The Perfect Itinerary (+ Tips)

You want to visit Holbox in 2 days and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 2-day itinerary in Holbox. It’s perfectly optimized to allow you to discover the must-see attractions of the island in a short amount of time.

First, I will give you all my best tips to make the most out of your visit to Holbox. Then, I will detail the day-to-day program, with all the best activities for each stage of your itinerary.

Of course, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Holbox in 2 days? Where to stay?

Day 1: Discovering the Charm of Holbox

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Your adventure starts early in the morning. Around 9 or 10 am, you should take the ferry to Holbox from Chiquilá. The ferry ride itself is a pleasant experience, giving you your first glimpse of the beautiful waters surrounding the island.

Upon arrival, you will immediately notice the laid-back atmosphere and vibrant colors of the island.

You should stroll through the village, where you can observe the local life and admire the beautiful colorful murals that decorate the walls of the quaint buildings. These murals are a testament to the island’s artistic spirit and make for some fantastic photo opportunities.

Next, you can head towards Punta Mosquito. This is a unique spot where you can walk on a sandbank that stretches out into the sea. It’s an incredible feeling, almost like walking on water! You’ll probably see kitesurfers gliding on the water and soaring in the air. I love watching them!

Make sure to bring your camera, as the views here are simply stunning, and you might even spot some flamingos if you’re lucky.

After exploring Punta Mosquito, it’s time to return to the center. Here, you will find many charming beach clubs.

Some are cozy and intimate, while others are larger and lively, but they all generally offer great cocktails and a wonderful ambiance. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch with margaritas on the beach.

One of my favorite spots is the Mandarina, an elegant yet laid-back beach club with amazing cocktails, great food, and top-notch service.

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal with your feet in the sand and the sound of the waves in the background!

Afternoon: Punta Cocos

In the afternoon, you should consider renting a bike or a golf cart to explore the island further.

Holbox is small, and this is a great way to see more of its natural beauty at your own pace. Alternatively, you can walk along the coastline to enjoy the best views. This is especially useful if it rained a few days ago, as the roads might be hard to pass through.

Head towards Punta Cocos, a secluded spot perfect for some quiet time.

As you go, you’ll pass through beautiful landscapes and might see some local wildlife. Punta Cocos is a beautiful beach with hardly anyone there.

There are 2-3 beach bars or restaurants where you can eat or have a drink, though I didn’t them myself. The beach is perfect for relaxing in the cool water and soaking up the sun. You’ll also find some spots shaded by trees, offering both shade and privacy.

In the late afternoon, you should admire the sunset at Punta Cocos. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen!

Watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, is magical.

After the sunset, head back to the center of Holbox. The evening atmosphere is vibrant, with many restaurants and bars in Holbox offering delicious food and live music. It’s the perfect way to end your first day on the island.

Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation

If you consider yourself an active traveler and like to fully enjoy your trip with activities, here is my recommendation for the second day of your 2-day trip to Holbox.

Morning: Kayaking in the Mangroves

Start your morning with a kayak tour in the mangroves.

You will have to wake up early because it starts at 6 am, but it is 100% worth it! The good news is that it’s for everyone, no matter your kayaking experience, because it’s quite gentle.

The guide will pick you up and take you to a secret spot, where you’ll paddle through the mangroves in your kayak. In the cool morning air, you can watch the wildlife awaken. Keep an eye out for flamingos, ospreys, pelicans, cormorants, and even crocodiles.

This part of the island is the most natural and serene, a hidden side of Holbox that few people have the chance to discover!

Book the kayak tour here:

After your kayak tour, head back to your accommodation to freshen up and prepare for the afternoon’s adventure. You’ll have plenty of time to have brunch and enjoy the beach, as the next tour starts at 2 PM.

Afternoon: Tour to Isla Pajaros, Cenote Yalahau, Passion Island

In the afternoon, take a tour to the islands near Holbox.

Your first stop is Isla Pajaros (Bird Island). This island is a sanctuary for 35 species of birds. You can’t walk on the island to protect the birds, but there’s a lookout that offers a splendid view. If you’re into birdwatching, be sure to bring your binoculars. The variety of bird species and the tranquility of the island make it a must-see for nature lovers.

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Yalahau, which is definitely a highlight in Holbox. This small freshwater lagoon, surrounded by lush greenery, is perfect for a swim or just relaxing in the sun. The clear, cool waters are incredibly refreshing, but don’t forget your swimsuit!

The last stop on the tour is Passion Island, a quiet spot where you can see flamingos and other birds and walk in the shallow waters around the island. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on the natural beauty and history of Holbox.

It’s a fantastic way to spend your afternoon and is definitely a highlight of a 2-day trip to Holbox!

With this 2-day itinerary in Holbox, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the best of the island. Just remember, the last ferry back to Chiquilá port leaves at 9 pm. Plan your day so you can relax and savor your final moments on the island without rushing.

Where to Stay for 2 Days in Holbox?

• Mapache Hostel & Camping: Just a 2 minute walk from the beach, this hostel and campsite is perfect for those looking for a cozy and familiar experience. From 18$ usd per night. Strengths: garden, common room, shared kitchen, barbecue and bike rental. Ideal for enjoying nature and good company.

• Casa Chujuk: A hotel offering excellent value for money, which is becoming increasingly difficult to find in Holbox! Very clean and bright rooms, with comfortable mattresses, a small pool to cool off, and good wifi, from 66$ usd per night! 

• Ensueño Holbox & Beach Club: Suites and flats with kitchenette for up to 5 people. Roof terrace, two swimming pools, a beach club with good food and music! Breakfast is included, from 165$ usd per night!

• Beachfront Hotel La Palapa – Adults only: A nice hotel very well located near the centre, with a beachfront, and a quiet beach that has excellent cocktails at the bar. Spacious rooms and very good service. Excellent breakfast included, from 250$ usd per night!

• Villas Flamingos: Located on a private beach on Isla Holbox, this 4-star hotel offers cozy and colorful bungalows with private terrace and hammock. From 300$ usd per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the stunning sea view, the relaxing atmosphere, the friendly staff, the delicious food. This is my suggestion for a peaceful and charming stay in Holbox!

How to Reach Holbox for a 2-Day Trip

Planning a 2-day trip to Holbox is straightforward with a bit of preparation. The first step is to head to Chiquilá Port, where you will catch the ferry to the island.

Option 1: Public Transportation

For budget travelers or solo adventurers, taking an ADO bus is an economical choice. Although it takes longer, it’s a cost-effective way to travel.

Buses run directly from Cancun (2h30), Playa del Carmen (2h10), and Tulum (3h30). Check the timetables and buy your tickets on the ADO website.

Conveniently, the bus station in Chiquilá is close to the ferry terminal.

Option 2: Shuttle Service

A shuttle service to the ferry offers more flexibility than a guided tour and is easier than taking the bus. This option allows you to enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics.

Here are some options; choose the one that suits you best:

• Cancun Airport to Holbox Ferry (shared)
• Holbox Ferry to Cancun Airport (shared)
• Cancun Airport to Holbox Ferry (private, one-way or round-trip)
• Flight from Cancun Airport to Holbox Island (private)

Is 2 Days in Holbox Enough?

If you have time and want to fully embrace island life, you can always stay longer. However, in my opinion, two days in Holbox are enough to get a great overview of what the island has to offer.

With this itinerary, you’ll have a full schedule: relaxing at the beach, exploring Punta Mosquito and Punta Cocos, kayaking in the mangroves, and discovering nearby islands and the cenote. It’s a well-rounded experience!

With more time, of course, I would recommend swimming with the whale shark (click here to have a look!), which is an amazing experience. This unique activity is something you won’t want to miss if you extend your stay.

To discover all the best activities in Holbox, check out my other guides:

• Top 12 Must-Do Activities in Holbox
• Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Holbox
• 3 Days in Holbox – The Perfect Itinerary
• Where to stay in Holbox: The Best Areas and Hotels

Rent a car in Cancun

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Mexico and make the most of your stay!

While it’s not super useful to visit the city, having a car is a must to discover the rest of the country.

To rent a car, personaly, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

How to find a cheap flight to Cancun

Cancun International Airport is a major hub that welcomes numerous flights from Europe and North America, serviced by well-known airlines such as Air Transat, Air Canada, Iberia, Aeromexico, Interjet, and KLM. This diversity makes it easy to find flights that fit your schedule.

To secure a cheap flight to Cancun and the best domestic flights within Mexico, I highly recommend using our flight comparison tool, powered by Skyscanner. It’s designed to ensure you get the best available fares!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico

• Isla Holbox: Top 12 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• Where to stay in Holbox: The Best Areas and Hotels
• 1 Day in Holbox – How to Make the Most of Your Visit
• 3 Days in Holbox – The Ultimate Itinerary

• Yucatan Peninsula: Top 20 things to Do and See
• Riviera Maya: The 35 Epic Things to Do!
• Cancun: the 35 Best Things to Discover
• Playa del Carmen: Top 30 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• Puerto Morelos: Top 14 Things To Do and Attractions
• Tulum: 21 Best Things to Do + All My Best Tips!

• Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month

• Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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