Peaceful Beachfront Resort with Yoga Pavilion on Isla Mujeres

Located in the Caribbean Sea about 8 miles northeast of Cancún, the island of Isla Mujeres surprises and charms those looking for a pleasant, laid-back alternative to its neighbor across the sea. The island’s turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and nearby reefs with some of the ocean’s most colorful creatures set the scene for Hotel Na Balam, a wellness retreat near the beach. Finding peace with nature is the resort’s main focus—lush gardens spread throughout the property, and there’s a thatched-roof yoga pavilion where you can listen to the sea breeze while pursuing physical and spiritual serenity.

Inspired by traditional Mexican and Mayan designs, Hotel Na Balam’s guest rooms include hand-carved wooden pieces. Ocean-view rooms provide a picturesque view of the Caribbean, and poolside rooms place you near the resort’s gardens. Relax on a hammock strung beside the one king bed or two queen beds. Bathrooms come with organic, handmade bath products made from aloe vera, oatmeal, and honey.

Located right on the beach under a palapa, Zazil Ha restaurant treats diners to breakfast, lunch, and dinner while they take in exquisite views of the coast. The restaurant is especially romantic for dinner: you can watch the sunset from the patio, and candles light it up afterwards. In addition to Mexican specialties, you can choose from a range of international entrees and an extensive wine list.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico: Historical Mayan Island near Cancún

The island of Isla Mujeres is roughly 5 miles long and less than a half mile wide, so you can see the entire island by bike or golf cart. From the resort, it’s about 1.5 miles to the sandy stretches of Playa Norte, which Frommer’s named one of Riviera Maya’s best beaches. Right next to the beach is the town square, where vendors sell tacos, tamales, and tikin xic, a regional dish made from fresh fish basted in an achiote paste. Wash it down with michelada, a mix of beer, lime juice, and spices. If you’d like to experience the Yucatán’s nightlife, then simply hop aboard a ferry for the 15-minute ride to Cancún.

To the south lies Garrafon Natural Reef Park, where you can explore the Caribbean by kayaking or snorkeling through its barrier reefs. At Punta Sur Cliff, the island’s southern tip, visitors can roam a sculpture garden, explore the remnants of a Mayan temple, and admire beautiful views of the bay.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.