Isla Mujeres Budget Accommodation

First of all let me make it clear that I only include places within walking distance to Playa Norte. In my opinion, that's the main reason to be on Isla Mujeres at all, hence my criteria. Don't be enticed by photos of any of the other beaches, particularly the Caribbean side which is windy, rough, and it's not even possible to go in the water. The ferry side has okay water in the north, but the swimmable area is very narrow. Playa Norte - vast, shallow, perfect. Stay as close to (or ON) Playa Norte as possible, and beware that Ave Hidalgo is the main drag with bars and restaurants so can be a little loud at night.

I'll also admit that most of my trips to Isla (which are many) have been with my BF who likes the fancier things so we stay in nice hotels. It's a little difficult on a backpacker budget, but it is possible to have a low-cost tropical vacation in this luxurious spot. For things to do and how to get there, see Isla Mujeres, Caribbean Luxury at Mexico Prices!.

Deals on Fancy Hotels

Privilege Aluxes Adults Only

is nice, is almost on Playa Norte, and has possibly the best pool on the island. They have all-inclusive specials sometimes that are a very good deal.

Ixchel

is in a fantastic location on Playa Norte with a pool, and it included beach chairs and umbrellas for hotel guests. The only way you'll get a good deal here (around $100/night) is by booking one of the standard rooms.

Mid-Range Hotels

Cabañas Maria del Mar

is a good choice. Their prices are reasonable ($80/night), they have a pool, the property is on the water but only some rooms have an ocean view, they supply free drinking water, and Buho's Bar is on the property. The hotel does not provide beach chairs and umbrellas.

Cuxos Hotel

is right behind ChiChi & Charlie's. Rooms from $75 and the location is amazing right on Playa Norte.

Hotel Villa Kiin

is located around the corner in the nice inlet by the odd Mia hotel. They have a pool, and rooms starting at $64.

ChiChi n' Charlies

rooms start under $100 and it's right on Playa Norte. I haven't stayed there but it looks like there is no escape from the sun/heat and I've heard the loud music can be a bit much.

Budget Lodging

If price is your sole driving factor, check out

Balu Hostel

. It's a little far from north beach, but it has a pool and it's cheap with dorm beds for $8 and private rooms for $27.

Hotel Sueño Maya

is only $28 for a room with kitchenette. It's not on the beach but is in a convenient location in town.

Maya Casitas

starting at only $18 for a private room with kitchenette, this little downtown spot is a great value!

Esduma la Perla Hotel Isla Mujeres

is part hostel, part hotel over on the "rough water" side, but it is a good value with rooms starting at $34 and going up to $67 for their king balcony suite. All rooms have shared bathroom and they offer a communal kitchen and lounge.

Of course there are a lot of places to stay on Isla that come and go all the time. Check

other hostels, cabañas and camping on Booking.com

.

Some cheap Airbnbs I have bookmarked for my next stay:

Room w/ Pool, 1 block from the beach starts as low as $18/night or $368/month for a nice room 1 block from from the Caribbean sea, 1 block from the pedestrian street Hidalgo, 4 blocks from North Beach, 4 blocks from the ferry.

Omkar Residence Studio Apartment starts at $23/night or $363/month for a studio with kitchenette, close to the grocery store.

Que Barbara 2 Studio Apartment starts at $36/night or $712/month for a studio with kitchenette and not too far from the beach.