After flying into the Cancun airport, you will take a private van to the ferry dock. Once you board the ferry, it is a stunning (and quick!) 15-20 minute ride to the island. Once you get on the island, you can either hop in a taxi at the taxi stand outside to Hacienda Caribe or to your AirBnb. We have included a link to CARM in our travel section that can assist you in booking both transfers from the airport and your ferry tickets. We suggest booking all travel arrangements with travel insurance and to check for any pre-flight requirements. Please look at the travel page for more information on this because it’s important to know that taxis from the airport are not an option, you must book a van in advance!
The island is TINY! Less than 5 miles long, and only 1 mile wide at its widest point. It's very easy to get around. Taxis are easily accessible all day long- no matter where you are and should be under $10 USD every time they are needed. Simply walk to the road, and a dozen will drive by. You can also rent a golf cart (our favorite way to get around), or a moped (also fun, but best left to experienced moped drivers). Chad and I will be renting a golf cart for the weekend, and if you are interested in doing this I can get you a price quote from our concierge, please let me know in advance! It’s a very fun way to get around, I highly recommend! On the 25th will have one day fully for exploring, going to Playa Norte together, having dinner and drinks after, and going to the street markets in the central part of the island so this is the only day you will need transportation and it will be easy to get a taxi if you don’t want to rent a golf cart or moped!
US dollars are widely accepted across the island, however to ensure that you get the best exchange rate, we recommend paying in pesos when possible. Once you exit the ferry, there is an ATM directly across the street, as well as a cash exchange booth (there are many other ATM´s throughout the island though). Be sure to notify your bank that you are traveling to Mexico so that you don't have any issues using your debit/credit cards while in Mexico
The short answer is no- but there is more info to be shared. The water is purified, but it is extremely hard. All hotels and restaurants will provide you with filtered water and ice- no one will serve you tap water (even if it is in a glass and not a bottle). It is safe to rinse your produce in the water, and perfectly fine to brush your teeth with the tap water. But as a general rule of thumb- only drink bottled water.
Yes! Like all countries in the world, there are parts of Mexico that have problems, and there are parts of Mexico that are incredibly wonderful and safe. We happen to be in one of those great places. We recommend that when traveling (anywhere in the world) you keep an eye on your belongings. The majority of crimes that happen here are crimes of opportunity- you leave your iPhone on the dash of your golf cart, and someone will walk away with it. Apart from that, which can be avoided with just a little common sense, Isla is a really safe and easy island to explore, and we encourage you to get out and see it.
Located mid island is an awesome grocery store called Chedraui. This store is basically a mini Wal-Mart. They carry everything from clothes, swimsuits, TV´s, medicine, toys, alcohol, home goods and food/produce. You can find almost anything you need there. If it is more of a specialty item, don't forget that Cancun is only a ferry ride away. Located in Cancun are US style malls, Costco, Sam´s Club and more.
Doctor Salas is an excellent family care physician with an office located in the downtown area of the island, he speaks English & he also makes house (hotel) calls. Please contact him at +52 998 845 2370 (Download WhatsApp- it is how everyone communicates in Mexico)