Water activities in Holbox

One of the many advantages of an island is that its water activities are many. Holbox is no exception. The fun never ends, whether you come alone, as a couple or as a family. Here are some water activities in Holbox.

Take a boat trip

Isla de los Pajaros: there are 35 species of birds! You can’t walk on the island so as not to disturb them, but there is an observatory that allows you to have a nice view. If you are a birdwatching enthusiast, I recommend that you bring binoculars.

Cenote Yalahau: this is a must see in Holbox. It is a small freshwater lagoon surrounded by vegetation. You can bathe in the cool water or just sit in the sun. It is necessary to pay an extra of 15$MXN to contribute to the maintenance of places. Bring your bathing suit.

Isla Pasion: “the island of Passion” takes its name from its past. A few generations ago, people used to get married in Holbox, then came to spend their honeymoon on this island. Later, it became a party place, with restaurants and discos. Hurricane Wilma (2005) destroyed everything and today there is very little left of the island. Today, there are many species of birds, including flamingos, and you can walk around the island in its shallow waters.

Doing water activities

Snorkeling: you can take a trip to Cabo Catoche (43km east of the island), ideal for fishing and snorkeling, with pristine landscapes with beautiful beaches. There are all kinds of fish and corals, the Atlantic nurse shark (tiburon gata), maybe even Carey turtles, octopuses and lobsters. On the way to Cabo Catoche, it is possible to see dolphins.

Kayaking: It is possible to visit the mangroves to observe the beautiful landscape, the many species of sea birds, crocodiles and flamingos that hide there. It is also a unique opportunity to discover Holbox from another point of view, in a quiet place, far from the tourists.

Fishing: Holbox was traditionally a fishing village and you can practice fishing at all levels and all year round. It is a real playground for the amateurs.

Water activities in Holbox: Swim with whale sharks

This is a must-do activity in Holbox if you are there between June and September! After a 2-hour trip in a small speed boat of maximum 10 people -during which you go along the reserve of Yum Balam which shelters pink flamingos, pelicans and herons- you arrive at an observation point where you can stay for about 2 hours.

Whale sharks are huge (6m long) and approaching them while snorkeling is unforgettable. Don’t panic, it is not dangerous and everything is very regulated (1 guide for 2 swimmers).