Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox (pronounced Holbosh) is located two and a half hours northwest of Cancun, a narrow picture-perfect strip of an island off the Yucatan Peninsula. Just a half-hour ferry ride from the rather nondescript town of Chiquilá, this tiny tropical outpost is ideal for those craving total escapism. There’s a no-car policy which adds to the off-grid vibe, and high-rises are also a big no-go. The island of Holbox is a place where nature and relaxation come first and second, where sandy roads lead to pristine beaches that blend into endless ocean. It’s the island’s colours that strike you first: dazzling blues and whites while oranges and pinks glow. Rise early and experience the soft light of dawn, watch herons and egrets, spot pelicans swooping, iguanas sunbathing and flamingos gliding elegantly into land. Explore on foot, by bike, boat, or golf buggy; kayak and paddleboard the crystal-clear waters or soak up the sights and sounds in the mural laden streets. Bright and bold, Holbox has come a long way since its off-radar, pirate-hiding days, but development has been careful and controlled, with eco-friendly boutique hotels and a barefoot bohemian vibe. This is a place where formality is forbidden and where stays are often unforgettable. Visit between May and September and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience of diving with whale sharks - that really is one for the travel memory bank.

Isla Holbox has a tropical savannah climate, which means high humidity and very warm temperatures. The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather has settled. The Hottest month is May and the coolest is December.