Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres: Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

Summary

Boat ride to Isla Contoy then Isla Mujeres with snorkeling and local lunch

You’ll set off by boat from Cancún toward Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres, starting with reef snorkeling if conditions allow. Enjoy a relaxed beachside lunch on Contoy’s protected sands before wandering colorful streets on Isla Mujeres with free time for ice cream or souvenirs. It’s a day full of salt air, bird calls, and small surprises — perfect if you want something real.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the salt air hit my face as we left the dock near Cancún — not harsh, but soft and sticky, kind of like you’re already wearing sunscreen even though you’re not supposed to use it on Contoy. Our guide, Carla, handed out coffee and cookies while everyone shuffled for seats. She joked that the banana was “fuel for snorkeling,” which made me laugh because I’m honestly not much of a swimmer. The sea was calm enough that morning, just little bumps under the boat, and you could already see that wild turquoise color even before we reached the reef.

I didn’t expect to hear so much silence underwater. When we stopped for the reef snorkel (they said it depends on weather — lucky us), all I could hear was my own breathing through the mask and these tiny crackling sounds from somewhere in the coral. Bright fish darted around; one nibbled at my fingers when I wasn’t looking. Carla pointed out a parrotfish and tried to get us to say its name in Spanish — “loro” — but I probably mangled it. We weren’t allowed to touch anything, which felt right somehow.

Contoy Island itself felt like stepping into a nature show — there were frigatebirds everywhere, swooping low over the sand. The sand stuck to my wet feet in clumps. Lunch was grilled fish (they called it Tikin Xic) and chicken, with rice and totopos that tasted extra salty after swimming. There’s something about eating with your hands on a wobbly picnic table that makes everything taste better. After lunch, some people swam again or just lay in the shallow water doing nothing at all. Honestly, that hour might’ve been my favorite part — no music, just wind and birds arguing overhead.

On Isla Mujeres later, we had an hour of free time. The streets were painted every color you can think of — pinks, blues, yellow walls faded by sun. I got ice cream from a guy who smiled but didn’t say much (maybe he was tired). My towel never really dried out but I didn’t care by then; you just walk around feeling sort of sun-warmed and floaty until it’s time to go back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and island exploration

• Enjoy light snack with juice and coffee
• Guided reef snorkeling tour
• Explore Contoy Island and snorkel
• Relax and swim in shallow waters
• Have beachside lunch
• Free time on Isla Mujeres
• Explore streets and beaches
• Buy ice cream or souvenirs

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres?

The tour lasts most of the day including boat rides, snorkeling stops, lunch on Contoy Island, and free time on Isla Mujeres before returning.

Is snorkeling always included in this tour?

Snorkeling is included if weather and sea conditions are safe; otherwise you’ll get more time on the islands instead.

What kind of lunch is served on Contoy Island?

You’ll have grilled chicken or Tikin Xic style fish with rice, totopos (chips), salad and fresh fruit.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

Are credit cards accepted for purchases on Isla Mujeres?

No, bring cash for souvenirs or snacks as cards aren’t accepted.

Can I use sunscreen or mosquito repellent during the tour?

Sunscreen (even biodegradable) shouldn’t be used on Contoy Island to protect marine life; apply only before water activities at your hotel.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is included in your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup near Cancún or Riviera Maya, all boat transfers between islands, coffee break snacks before departure, guided reef snorkeling (weather permitting), a bilingual certified guide throughout the journey, beachside lunch with grilled chicken or Tikin Xic fish plus drinks like water, soft drinks or beer—and plenty of free time both on Contoy Island’s beaches and exploring Isla Mujeres’ colorful streets before heading back in the afternoon.