A Serene Getaway to Holbox Island with Friends

Day 1: First Day Bliss: Holbox Island's Enchanting Embrace

Discover Holbox Island's serene beauty, from pristine beaches to culinary delights, as I embark on a blissful escape with friends.

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Sandy Toes and Turquoise Dreams


Today marked the start of our much-anticipated escape to Holbox Island, and what a day it has been! Leaving the familiar rhythm of Berlin behind, I was ready to embrace the tranquil beauty that Holbox promised. The journey itself was smooth, with a flight to Cancun followed by a scenic ferry ride to the island. As the ferry approached Holbox, the turquoise waters and the sight of colorful buildings instantly washed away any lingering travel fatigue.

As Hans always says, a change of scenery is as good as a rest, and I couldn't agree more. I'm so glad I could share this experience with my friends. We checked into the Naay Boutique Hotel Holbox, which is a haven of peace and elegance, and quickly freshened up, eager to start exploring. The hotel's serene ambiance and stylish decor immediately made us feel at home. I made a mental note to take some inspiration back to my balcony garden in Berlin – perhaps a touch of Holbox could brighten up even the greyest of days!

Discover tranquility at Naay Boutique Hotel Holbox, an adults-only paradise in stunning Holbox Island, just steps from pristine beaches and vibrant culture.
Discover tranquility at Naay Boutique Hotel Holbox, an adults-only paradise in stunning Holbox Island, just steps from pristine beaches and vibrant culture.

Our first stop was, of course, Playa Holbox. The beach was everything I had dreamed of and more. The sand was soft and white, and the water was crystal clear. It was the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. Despite it being September, the weather was wonderfully warm, with a gentle breeze that kept us comfortable. The forecast predicts that the temperature will remain consistent throughout our stay, with highs around 32°C and evenings cooling down to a pleasant 24°C.

Explore Playa Holbox, a tranquil paradise in Quintana Roo with stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Explore Playa Holbox, a tranquil paradise in Quintana Roo with stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

The island's charm lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in its ability to slow down time, allowing you to savor every moment.


We strolled along the shore, enjoying the views and the laid-back atmosphere. Holbox is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and simply wading in the sea. We spent a good couple of hours basking in the sun before deciding to seek out some lunch. I made sure to apply plenty of sunscreen, though I realized I had forgotten my beach hat! Luckily, I had packed light clothing, perfect for the tropical climate.

For breakfast, we had planned to visit Las Panchas, a restaurant famous for its regional cuisine. It’s known to be a simple and beautiful place with excellent service and food. However, we were so eager to get to the beach that we missed breakfast completely. So for lunch, we headed to Restaurante Wayak Dreamy Food Holbox. The restaurant had a relaxed, bohemian vibe, with colorful décor and comfortable seating. I ordered some delicious seafood, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. My friends opted for traditional Mexican dishes, which they thoroughly enjoyed. It was the perfect spot to refuel after our morning on the beach.

Experience the best of Mexican brunch at Restaurante Wayak Dreamy Food Holbox, where delightful flavors meet stunning views.
Experience the best of Mexican brunch at Restaurante Wayak Dreamy Food Holbox, where delightful flavors meet stunning views.

After lunch, we decided to explore the Natural pier. As we approached it, the rustic wooden structure extended gracefully into the turquoise waters, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation. The pier is not just a functional dock; it serves as a gateway to the vibrant marine ecosystem that surrounds the island. The views from the pier were breathtaking, especially as the sun began to dip towards the horizon. The sky was painted in hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a stunning backdrop for the tranquil waters. I took countless photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to witness such incredible natural beauty is truly priceless.

Discover the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at the Natural Pier in Holbox, a must-visit destination in Quintana Roo.
Discover the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at the Natural Pier in Holbox, a must-visit destination in Quintana Roo.

As evening approached, we strolled back towards the town center, drawn in by the promise of dinner at Casa Nostra Roof Restaurant. The walk was a bit adventurous, thanks to the large pools of rainwater that had gathered on the sandy roads after some rain. But with a bit of careful stepping, we managed to avoid any unexpected mud baths! The restaurant itself was charming, with a classic, understated design. Being upstairs, it offered panoramic views of the island. The Italian cuisine was a delightful change of pace, and we savored every bite while enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Casa Nostra Roof Restaurant in Holbox - where every meal is a celebration.
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Casa Nostra Roof Restaurant in Holbox - where every meal is a celebration.

After dinner, we decided to check out ALMA Bar, a rooftop bar known for its stunning views and refreshing cocktails. It was the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Holbox. The margaritas were delicious, and the panoramic views of the turquoise sea were simply breathtaking. The bar had a boho-chic vibe, with chill-out music and comfortable sunbeds. It was the ideal spot to sit back, take in the incredible surroundings, and enjoy a lazy evening with friends. I opted for one of Alma's range of flavored mojitos, which was delicious.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at ALMA Bar in Holbox, a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at ALMA Bar in Holbox, a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight.

As the night drew to a close, we made our way back to the hotel, feeling relaxed and content. Holbox had already cast its spell on us, and I couldn't wait to see what adventures tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Isla de la Pasión and the Flamingo viewing sandbar. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of seeing flamingos in their natural habitat. I've heard that the sandbar is a truly magical place, and I can't wait to experience it for myself. Before that, we'll grab breakfast at Roots Pizzas a la leña Isla Holbox [i].

Back at the hotel, I sat on my balcony, listening to the gentle sound of the waves and reflecting on the day. Holbox is truly a special place, a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's a place where you can slow down, reconnect with nature, and simply be present in the moment. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to escape to paradise with my friends. I made sure to charge my camera, as I don’t want to miss out on capturing the beauty of Isla de la Pasión tomorrow!

Go to day 2 Island Escapes and Culinary Delights: Discovering Holbox's Hidden Gems
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A Serene Getaway to Holbox Island with Friends

Discover tranquility on Holbox Island with friends, enjoying stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and luxurious accommodations for a perfect escape.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Kirsten Nielsen
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Freelance Urban Gardener and Travel Blogger
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 36

Hej! I'm Kirsten, a Danish transplant living in Berlin with my husband, Hans. By day, I'm an urban gardener, transforming city spaces into green havens. But my real passion lies in exploring the world and sharing my experiences with you. I'm all about sustainable travel, immersing myself in local cultures, and finding those hidden gems that make each destination unique. Join me as I share my adventures, tips for eco-conscious travel, and a little bit of 'hygge' along the way!

Interests:
  • Sustainable living
  • Scandinavian design
  • Photography
  • Local cuisine
  • Modern art
More about Kirsten Nielsen

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Explore locations from this diary

  • Naay Boutique Hotel Holbox

    Discover tranquility at Naay Boutique Hotel Holbox, an adults-only paradise in stunning Holbox Island, just steps from pristine beaches and vibrant culture.

  • Playa Holbox

    Explore Playa Holbox, a tranquil paradise in Quintana Roo with stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

  • Natural pier

    Discover the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at the Natural Pier in Holbox, a must-visit destination in Quintana Roo.

  • Las Panchas

    Discover Las Panchas: A Seafood Haven in Holbox Offering Authentic Mexican Cuisine Amidst Tropical Paradise.

  • Restaurante Wayak Dreamy Food Holbox

    Experience the best of Mexican brunch at Restaurante Wayak Dreamy Food Holbox, where delightful flavors meet stunning views.

  • Casa Nostra Roof Restaurant

    Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Casa Nostra Roof Restaurant in Holbox - where every meal is a celebration.

  • ALMA Bar

    Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at ALMA Bar in Holbox, a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight.

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