If you’re dreaming of a quiet escape where sandy streets replace traffic, sunsets light up the sky, and your biggest decision of the day is whether to swim, kayak, or sip a cocktail by the sea , then Holbox is your kind of place.

Tucked away on the northern tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Isla Holbox (pronounced “Hol-bosh”) is a car-free island known for its natural beauty, easygoing vibe, and incredible biodiversity. Despite its growing popularity, Holbox has managed to keep its small-island charm, making it a favorite destination for travelers looking to unwind, reconnect with nature, and experience a slower pace of life.

But don’t let its sleepy appearance fool you, there’s a lot more to Holbox than just hammocks and beaches. From swimming with whale sharks and witnessing glowing bioluminescence, to discovering vibrant street art and kayaking through mangroves, this little island is full of surprises.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best things to do in Holbox, whether you’re here for a few days or a full week. You’ll find activities for every type of traveler , adventurers, foodies, nature lovers, couples, and families alike.

Let’s explore what makes Holbox one of Mexico’s most magical island getaways, and help you plan your perfect visit.

Watch an unforgettable sunset

One of the simplest and most soul-satisfying things to do in Holbox is to slow down and watch the sun dip into the sea. The island’s west-facing beaches offer some of the most breathtaking skies in the Yucatán, where colors shift from golden orange to deep violet as the evening sets in.

Whether you’re standing barefoot on the sand at Punta Cocos, relaxing at a beachfront bar, or sitting quietly at the end of a wooden dock, the sunset in Holbox is a moment you won’t forget. Locals and travelers alike pause their day just to soak it in.

If you’re wondering about the best places to see the sunset in Holbox, there are a few must-visit spots where the view is truly unforgettable. We’ll be sharing our top picks in a dedicated post soon, so keep an eye out.

In Holbox, sometimes the most beautiful part of the day is the one where you do nothing at all.

Walk to Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito

If your perfect vacation includes peaceful beaches, shallow turquoise water, and the feeling of having paradise all to yourself, then Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two places you can’t miss.

Located at opposite ends of the island, both spots offer a more secluded, untouched side of Holbox. Punta Cocos is a favorite for those looking to unwind, swim in calm waters, and catch a quiet sunset. On the other hand, Punta Mosquito feels like stepping into a postcard, endless sandbars, soft white sand, and often flocks of flamingos in the distance.

Reaching these areas usually involves a bit of walking or biking, but that’s part of the charm. No beach clubs, no noise — just nature, space, and time to disconnect.

Visiting Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito is easily one of the best things to do in Holbox if you’re craving a slower pace and peaceful surroundings.

Experience the magic of bioluminescence in Holbox

One of the most unforgettable things to do in Holbox is witnessing the glowing waters known as bioluminescence , a rare natural phenomenon that turns the sea into a field of sparkling stars.

Thanks to the high concentration of microscopic plankton, bioluminescence Holbox is one of the few places in the world where you can see this magical glow right from the beach, with no need for a boat. Just walking through the shallow water leaves a glowing trail at your feet, lighting up with every movement.

The glow is caused by microscopic plankton reacting to movement , a rare phenomenon that only happens in a few places around the world, like Mosquito Bay in Puerto Rico or Holbox, Mexico.

The best time to experience this is on dark, moonless nights between June and September, when the bioluminescence is at its brightest. The area around Punta Cocos is especially popular for night time tours, many of which are done on foot or by kayak with local guides who know the best conditions and locations.

Quiet, surreal, and unlike anything you’ve seen before, this is one experience you won’t want to miss, and one of Holbox true natural wonders.

Want to know how to time it just right? Check this full guide to bioluminescence Holbox with insider tips on when, where, and how to go.

Volunteer at the Animal Shelter

If you’re looking to do something meaningful during your visit, one of the most rewarding things to do in Holbox is to volunteer at the island’s local animal shelter.

Holbox, like many small islands, has its share of stray dogs and cats, and the shelter plays a vital role in caring for, rehabilitating, and finding homes for them. Visitors are welcome to stop by and help out, whether that’s by walking dogs on the beach, giving a bit of affection, or even donating supplies.

You don’t need to commit to days of work, even just an hour or two of your time can make a difference. It’s a great way to connect with the community, share a little kindness, and maybe even make a few four-legged friends along the way.

It might not be the first thing people think of when planning a trip, but for many travelers, this simple act of giving back becomes one of the most memorable parts of their stay.

🐶 We’ll be sharing more details soon on how to visit the shelter, what to bring, and how to support their work even from home.

Explore the Island by Bike or Golf Cart

Holbox is an island made for slow travel , there are no cars, no traffic lights, and no rush. One of the best things in Holbox is to rent a bike or golf cart and set off to explore the island at your own pace.

With sandy paths instead of paved roads, these are the main ways locals and visitors get around. Bikes are ideal for solo travelers or couples who want to cruise through town or reach quiet beaches like Punta Mosquito, while golf carts are great for groups, families, or anyone who wants a bit more comfort on longer routes.

As you ride, you’ll pass colorful murals, laid-back cafés, beach bars, hidden boutiques, and the occasional iguana sunbathing in the road. Whether you’re heading to the beach or just enjoying the breeze, getting around this way turns the journey into part of the adventure.

Rentals are easy to find in town, and most places offer hourly or daily rates. Just grab a map, hop on, and let the island guide you.

🚗 We’ll share a full breakdown soon on where to rent, what it costs, and the best mini-routes to take across Holbox.

Whale Sharks in Holbox

If there’s one activity that puts Holbox on the map for adventurers and nature lovers, it’s the chance to swim with whale sharks — the largest fish in the sea.

From mid-May to mid-September, these gentle giants migrate to the waters just north of the island, making Holbox one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel alongside them in their natural habitat. Despite their size (they can grow up to 12 meters long), whale sharks are filter feeders and completely harmless to humans.

Tours typically leave early in the morning and include a scenic boat ride, a briefing on how to swim respectfully with the sharks, and sometimes even a stop to snorkel with manta rays or sea turtles along the way.

Seeing a whale shark glide past you in open water is something you’ll never forget, a humbling, awe-inspiring experience that many travelers call the highlight of their trip.

🐳 Want to know when to go, what to bring, and how to choose the right tour? Our full guide to whale shark tours in Holbox is coming soon.

Take a tour: Three Islands & Cabo Catoche

If you’re looking to go beyond the main beaches and see a bit more of what surrounds Holbox, joining a boat tour is one of the most classic things to do in Holbox and two options stand out: the Three Islands Tour Holbox and a trip to Cabo Catoche tour.

The Three Islands Tour is a half-day trip that takes you to some of the area’s most beautiful natural spots. You’ll visit Isla Pájaros, a protected bird sanctuary; Isla Pasión, a tiny, untouched island ideal for relaxing and spotting marine life; and a freshwater cenote where you can take a refreshing swim in the middle of the mangroves. It’s great for families or travelers who want a taste of Holbox’s natural diversity in a short time.

The Cabo Catoche tour is a bit more adventurous , it’s a full-day excursion to where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea. Along the way, you can snorkel over coral reefs, fish with locals, and even spot dolphins and sea turtles if you’re lucky. It’s one of the most off-the-beaten-path experiences on the island.

Both tours give you a chance to connect with the wild side of Holbox and see the beauty that lies just beyond the horizon.

🌊 Coming soon: a complete guide to choosing the right boat tour, what to expect, and when to go for the best weather and wildlife sightings.

Horseback Riding Along the Shore

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty, horseback riding on the beach is one of the most relaxing and scenic things to do in Holbox.

Guided rides are available for all levels, from first-timers to experienced riders. The route usually takes you through quiet sandy paths and onto the shore, where you can trot along the water’s edge with the breeze in your face and the sound of waves nearby. Some tours even time the ride around sunset, creating a moment that feels almost cinematic.

It’s a peaceful, slow-paced way to explore parts of the island that you might not reach on foot — especially if you’re traveling with family, or just want to do something a little different.

🐴 Interested in when and where to book? We’ll be publishing a full guide to horseback riding in Holbox soon.

Reconnect with yourself: Wellness in Holbox

If you’re looking to unwind, reset, and truly disconnect, immersing yourself in the wellness side of Holbox is one of the most meaningful things in Holbox. The island’s relaxed pace and natural beauty create the perfect setting for inner balance and slow living.

Yoga classes are offered on the beach at sunrise or in lush tropical gardens. Spas across the island provide holistic treatments, open-air massages, and healing rituals inspired by Mayan culture , including the traditional temazcal.

The temazcal is a type of sweat lodge ceremony led by a trained guide, often a local shaman or healer. Using volcanic stones, aromatic herbs, and steam, the experience is both physical and spiritual , designed to cleanse the body and calm the mind. Whether it’s your first time or something you’ve long been curious about, participating in a temazcal can be a profound and grounding part of your trip.

You don’t need to stay at a resort to enjoy these services , many are open to the public and easy to book.

🌿 We’re preparing a full wellness guide to Holbox soon, including where to try yoga, massage, and authentic temazcal ceremonies on the island.

Taste the Flavours of Holbox

No visit to Holbox is complete without exploring its delicious and surprisingly diverse local cuisine. Whether you’re craving ultra-fresh seafood, Yucatecan flavors, or creative beachside dishes, trying the food here is one of the most satisfying things to do in Holbox.

The island is best known for its lobster pizza, an iconic dish that perfectly blends Holbox laid-back style with local ingredients. You’ll also find plenty of fresh ceviches, grilled fish, and tacos made with catch-of-the-day seafood.

Beyond the beach shacks and casual spots, Holbox has a growing number of creative restaurants and food trucks serving everything from vegan bowls to wood-fired pastas. Whether you’re dining barefoot in the sand or sitting on a rooftop terrace, the island’s atmosphere makes every meal feel special.

And don’t forget the simple joys: coconut water straight from the shell, a paleta (Mexican popsicle) under the sun, or a mezcal cocktail while watching the sky change colors.

🍽️ Want to know where to eat and what not to miss? Our Holbox food guide is coming soon with local favorites, hidden gems, and dishes worth traveling for.

Final Thoughts: The Best Things to Do in Holbox

Whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks, the things to do in Holbox aren’t just about checking off activities, they’re about connecting with the island rhythm.

You’ll find beauty in both the big moments, like swimming with whale sharks or paddling through glowing waters, and the quiet ones, like watching the sun set from a sandy shore or biking slowly past painted walls and sleepy dogs.

Holbox invites you to slow down, explore with intention, and make space for the unexpected. However you choose to experience it, one thing’s certain: the island has a way of staying with you, long after your footprints in the sand are gone.