Holbox Mexico

Holbox offers incomparable sunsets that can be seen from the most gorgeous beaches; it is an exotic place full of attractions. Here you can get excited about being in direct contact with nature or, if you prefer, simply relax. On this island, you will find plenty of romantic and charming bungalows that will offer you all the delightful pleasures of the typical Caribbean lifestyle. Hundreds of flamingoes can be seen flying over this wonderful island at certain times of the day or while they are eating fish and seaweed in the lagoon.

The island features a modest population comprised mainly of fishermen, incomparable white beaches, and exotic wildlife. This remote place, away from massive tourism, belongs to the natural reserve and protected area of Yum Balam.Sample the pleasures of this unequalled island. Its simple tourist infrastructure and relaxed lifestyle offer you an unforgettable Holbox vacation.

Holbox Island is a secluded and unspoiled territory inhabited by a small population. On this island, you will find few phones, cars, and computers but a great variety of flamingoes, seashells, and all kinds of birds and dolphins in their natural habitat. Before the Spanish conquest, Mayans inhabited Holbox. Over the years, while Holbox was prospering from its coconut plantations, an important fishing industry developed due to the richness of the surrounding sea.

Holbox Island offers several miles of unspoiled beaches, full of seashells and lush mangrove vegetation. The seawaters change tone, going from the turquoise blue of the Caribbean, to the emerald blue of the Gulf of Mexico. All these conditions make Holbox a perfect habitat for abundant and exotic wildlife.Here you can amuse yourself watching dolphins jumping out of the water or flamingoes moving elegantly with a magical sunset as the background.

During your time in Holbox, you can stay in charming "casitas," small houses usually built of wood with thatched roofs. Most Holbox people sleep in hammocks that are knitted by local women; you can buy one to take home with you. Many souvenir shops also offer other crafts and accessories handmade by local people.

To get to Holbox Island, you have to board the public ferry from Chiquila.Holbox is located in the northeast corner of the Yucatan Peninsula, just where the Mexican Caribbean starts in Cabo Catoche. The island is 25 miles long and its width varies from less than 1/2 to over a mile wide, making a total area of 25 square miles.

Holbox in Mayan means "black hole," named after the tiny lagoon in the southern area of the island. The bottom of this lagoon is dark, giving the impression of being black. Different rivers cross the jungle mangroves dividing the island into three separate sections. Only the smallest one is inhabited by humans.

Holbox has a friendly population. It is a peaceful town, where life moves at a slow rhythm. Escape from the hectic, modern world and relax in your hammock in this heavenly village. You can also rent a bike, motorcycle, or golf cart to get around this unique town.

Nowadays, fishing is the main economic activity, although tourism is growing slowly and continuously. The natural attractions make Holbox an excellent destination, perfect for ecotourism, which contributes to local people's income. The government has declared this island a protected area, to ensure the survival of the extraordinary local wildlife in future generations.

Holbox cuisine consists mainly of fresh and healthy seafood obtained directly from local fishermen. Enjoy the delicacies, including the traditional lobster Holbox style, or savor mouthwatering shrimp, fish, crab, tuna, clams, and octopus. You can also try traditional "ceviche" and typical fish "empanadas." In addition, you will find fresh and exotic fruits such as papayas, mangoes, and pineapples. Coconuts grow all over the island; therefore, "coconut water" (sometimes mixed with rum) is a Holbox drink par excellence.