3 days in Holbox: the perfect itinerary (first time visit)

How to spend 3 days in Holbox: The best itinerary + Where to stay

You want to visit Holbox in 3 days and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

To help you plan your next trip, I have prepared for you this 3-day itinerary in Holbox. It’s perfectly optimized to allow you to discover the must-see attractions of the island and enjoy its unique charm.

I will detail the day-to-day program, with all the best things to do and activities for each stage of your itinerary.

You will get to explore Punta Mosquito, marvel at the stunning sunsets at Punta Cocos, and embark on a boat tour to the nearby islands.

You will also have the chance to kayak through the mangroves, swim with the majestic whale sharks, and enjoy the laid-back vibes of the beach clubs on the white sand.

Of course, I will also give you all my best tips and places to stay, no matter your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Holbox in 3 days? Where to stay?

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Holbox

Morning:

Your adventure begins with a ferry ride to Holbox from Chiquilá at around 9 or 10 in the morning.

Ferries depart every 20-30 minutes, and tickets for both companies (Holbox Express and 9 Hermanos) cost the same. So, you can hop on the next available ferry without much thought.

Once you get to Holbox, take a stroll around the village. The streets are filled with vibrant, colorful murals. As you wander, you’ll see local life in action—fishermen unloading their catch, kids playing.

Next, head north to Punta Mosquito.

This spot is known for its sandbanks that stretch into the turquoise waters, making you feel like you’re walking on water. Pass Hotel Las Nubes (click here to view on the map) to reach this stunning beach, considered one of the most beautiful in Holbox and all of Mexico!

When the tide is low, you can wade through the shallow water, which won’t go past your calves. You might spot flamingos, especially between May and October, as well as tropical fish and pelicans. Be careful with the stingrays, but remember that they are more afraid of you and will swim away. 😉

After your morning walk, head back to the center of the village for breakfast or lunch with margaritas on the beach. There are plenty of beachfront restaurants where you can relax, enjoy delicious food, and sip on a refreshing drink while soaking in the beautiful sea views.

For a cozy and intimate vibe, check out Punta Caliza or BarBarossa. If you’re looking for a lively spot, La Playa de Ñaña is a great choice, and for a bohemian chic atmosphere, Mandarina is the place to be.

To be honest, I love them all. Each place has its own vibe, and I like to switch it up based on my mood and the music they’re playing!😆

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, rent a bike or a golf cart and head to Punta Cocos, a peaceful beach with soft sand and clear water.

Punta Cocos is famous for having some of the best sunsets in Mexico, so as the day winds down, enjoy the view!

If you want to stay a bit longer, it’s also the best place in Holbox to see the bioluminescence, where organisms in the water create a natural glow through chemical reactions.

Sometimes you can see it right on the beach, but for the best view, I really recommend taking a kayak tour to the brightest spots.

You can book the bioluminescence tour here: 

Day 2: Discovering Holbox’s Natural Wonders

Morning:

Start your second day with an a kayak tour in the mangroves.

This was one of my favorite activities in Holbox, and I felt so lucky to have the place almost to myself.

This is a unique opportunity to explore one of Holbox’s most serene and natural areas, where you can paddle through calm waters and keep an eye out for flamingos, ospreys, pelicans, cormorants, and even crocodiles.

It does start early, around 6 am, but trust me, it’s totally worth it and a must-do if you’re spending 3 days in Holbox!

Book the kayak tour here:

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, explore the islands near Holbox.

Many people stay in Holbox and don’t realize there are some amazing small islands nearby that are worth exploring!

They are great for a half-day trip, and the only way to reach them is by taking a boat tour.

The tour includes stops at Isla Pájaros, Cenote Yalahau, and Isla de la Pasión.

First, you’ll arrive at Isla Pájaros, a birdwatcher’s paradise with 35 species of birds. While you can’t walk on the island to protect the wildlife, there’s a mirador where you can watch the birds up close.

The second stop is Cenote Yalahau, where you can take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters. It’s the only freshwater oasis in an area entirely surrounded by salt water.

Finally, Passion Island offers soft sand and shallow waters around the island where you can walk—it’s amazing!

You can book the islands and cenote tour here:

Day 3: Adventure and Relaxation

If you have the chance to spend 3 days in Holbox, don’t miss the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, especially if you’re there between May and September.

The adventure begins with a speedboat ride toward Cabo Catoche, where you’ll swim with whale sharks and possibly spot other marine life like manta rays, dolphins, and turtles.

Don’t worry, they’re not dangerous—they’re the largest fish in the world, typically around 39 feet long and weighing 15 tons!

Then, you’ll head to the peaceful Santa Paula beach, where you can kick back and enjoy some fresh ceviche, guacamole, and mango.

Book the tour here:

Where to Stay During a 3-Day Vacation in Holbox

Here are my suggestions of hotels for 3 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!

The Best Ways to Reach Holbox for a 3-Day Trip

Planning a 3-day trip to Holbox is easy with some preparation: simply start by heading to Chiquilá Port to catch the ferry to the island.

Option 1: Public Transportation

For those on a budget or traveling alone, an ADO bus is a great economical option. Though it takes a bit longer, it’s a very cost-effective mode of travel.

Buses depart directly from Cancun (2h30), Playa del Carmen (2h10), and Tulum (3h30). Be sure to check the timetables and buy your tickets on the ADO website.

The bus station in Chiquilá is conveniently located close to the ferry terminal.

Option 2: Shuttle Service

Choosing a shuttle service to the ferry offers greater flexibility than a guided tour and is simpler than taking the bus. This option lets you relax and enjoy your trip without any hassle.

Consider the following shuttle options (just click on the name if you want to book it):

• Shared shuttle from Cancun Airport to Holbox Ferry
• Shared shuttle from Holbox Ferry to Cancun Airport
• Private shuttle from Cancun Airport to Holbox Ferry (one-way or round-trip)
• Private flight from Cancun Airport to Holbox Island

My Best Tips to Visit Holbox in 3 Days

1. Book Activities in Advance: Many popular activities, such as the whale shark tour and kayak tour, can fill up quickly. To ensure you don’t miss out, it’s best to book these tours before your trip.

2. Bring Cash: while some places on Holbox accept credit cards, be careful because the internet signal is very unstable on the island, which can interfere with card transactions. It’s always a good idea to carry cash (Mexican pesos), especially for smaller vendors and tips. Also, keep in mind that there are limited ATMs on the island, and they may not always be reliable.

3. Pack Light: Holbox is a laid-back destination, so you won’t need much more than casual beachwear. The roads can be bumpy and sometimes partly flooded, so if you have luggage with wheels, it might be a bit tricky. But don’t worry, you can always hop on a taxi (golf cart). It’s going to be way easier if you have a backpack!

4. Plan your ferry schedule to and from Chiquilá in advance: The ferry ride is about 30 minutes, and knowing the times will help you make the most of your stay. You can check the schedules and purchase your tickets in advance on the ferry websites (Holbox Express and 9 Hermanos)

Is Spending Just 3 Days in Holbox Enough?

Three days in Holbox is plenty of time to soak in the island’s highlights and laid-back vibe.

My 3-day itinerary is crafted to help you get the most out of your visit, mixing key attractions with hidden gems, and balancing activities with relaxation.

If you have more time, though, extending your stay will let you dive deeper into its natural beauty and fully enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Take a look at my other Holbox guides for even more tips and insights:

• Top 12 Things to Do in Holbox
• 1 Day in Holbox – How to Make the Most of Your Visit
• 2 Days in Holbox – Best Things to Do and See
• Where to stay in Holbox: The Best Areas and Hotels

Rent a car in Mexico

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.

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
• 2 Days in Holbox – Best Things to Do and See

• 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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