Holbox by Ferry: Day Trip to Punta Mosquito from Playa del Carmen
Difficulty
easy
Duration
11–12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for light to moderate fitness — mostly flat walking and short wading; long day due to transfers.
Overview
Escape the Riviera Maya for a full-day ferry voyage to Holbox and Punta Mosquito. Spend long shallow walks on a sandbar, cruise mural-lined sandy streets by bike or shared golf cart, and savor fresh seafood in a beachside palapa.
Holbox by Ferry: Day Trip to Punta Mosquito from Playa del Carmen
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The morning begins before sunrise on the highway between Playa del Carmen and Chiquilá, the bus humming and the sky paling from black to steel. You trade mainland bustle for the ferry’s spray — half an hour of wind and turquoise that widens with every wave — and then Holbox appears: low, luminous, a fringe of sand and palms where the sea seems to breathe slowly.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early for smoother travel
Pickups begin before 06:00 — early departure reduces traffic delays and gives you the best light on Punta Mosquito.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Holbox's seagrass beds are sensitive; use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life while staying sun-safe.
Wear water-friendly footwear
The tour includes wading on sandbars and walking through wet sand — sandals or neoprene water shoes work best.
Expect shared golf carts
Golf carts are shared (three people) — if you want privacy, consider bringing a partner or choosing the bicycle option.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Flamingos
- Brown pelicans
History
Holbox began as a small fishing community with ties to Mayan maritime routes; its economy has shifted from fishing to eco-tourism while retaining strong local traditions.
Conservation
The island enforces a small marine tax and relies on community programs to protect mangroves, sea-grass beds, and nesting bird habitats — stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Playa del Carmen
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and nearby marine ecosystems during long sun exposure.
Reusable water bottle (1–1.5 L)
Keeps you hydrated through hot midday hours and while exploring the sandbar.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Comfortable for sandy streets and shallow wading at Punta Mosquito.
Lightweight sun hat and sunglasses
Adds sun protection for the exposed sandbar and ferry deck.
summer specific