From Cancun or Puerto Morelos: Holbox Boat Tour with Lunch

Traveling to the Riviera Maya and looking for a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty with relaxing beach time? This Holbox Boat Tour with Lunch from Cancun or Puerto Morelos offers a fantastic way to explore one of the area’s most laid-back islands. While it’s not a hidden secret, it’s a well-rounded excursion that balances scenic boat rides, free time on pristine beaches, and a taste of local flavor.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on quiet, less crowded spots, like Secret Beach and Isla Pasión, where you can truly unwind away from the busier tourist hubs. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and a swim in the Yalahau cenote makes it feel like a complete day of nature and relaxation.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite long—12 hours in total—and involves a fair amount of travel time, so it might not be suited to everyone, especially those who prefer a lighter, shorter outing. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of exploration, scenic views, and some downtime on sandy beaches. If you’re someone who loves discovering hidden gems with a local guide, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-day experience with hotel pickup, boat tours, and multiple stops
• Quiet beaches and sandbars ideal for relaxing and taking photos
• Includes a delicious lunch and beverages on the boat
• Swim in the Yalahau cenote, a refreshing natural lagoon
• Guided visits to Passion Island and other scenic spots
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Charm of Holbox on a Full-Day Trip

If you’re looking for a way to see a different side of the Quintana Roo coast, this boat tour offers a peaceful escape from the bustling resorts. The entire day is designed to give you a taste of Holbox’s laid-back vibe, stunning scenery, and natural wonders, all while providing the comforts of guided transportation and included meals.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with hotel pickup, which is quite convenient. The tour offers two pickup locations in Cancun at Porsche Destination Charging and at a designated hotel on C. 46 182. From there, it’s about a two-hour drive in an air-conditioned van—so pack some water and wear comfortable clothes. The journey itself is smooth, and it’s a good chance to kick back and get excited for what’s ahead.

Once you arrive at Passion Island, your adventure truly kicks off. You get a quick 30-minute stop here, which is enough to snap some photos or stretch your legs. This spot is a bit of a teaser for the natural beauty you’ll see later on, with its tranquil shores and limited crowds.

Next, you’ll visit Hoyo Negro Yalahau, a lagoon where you can swim and cool off in clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. The hour-long stop is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the scenery. Many travelers, like Nina from Germany, enjoyed this part, describing it as a “refreshing water after a long day.” It’s a peaceful oasis that feels almost untouched.

The Highlight: Holbox Island and Secret Beaches

After the lagoon, the main event is reaching Holbox Island itself. You’ll spend around 2 hours here, giving you enough time to walk the picturesque streets, admire the colorful murals, or simply lounge on the beach. The tour mentions free time on the sandbars at Secret Beach, which is a highlight for those who want quiet, undisturbed sand and water. It’s a great spot for photos and unwinding away from crowds.

Holbox is known for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty, and from what travelers like Morgane pointed out, the island is “small but a cute island,” perfect for renting bikes and exploring at your own pace.

Food and Drinks: A Highlight of the Day

A real plus for this tour is the included lunch, served at a local restaurant. Travelers rave about the delicious food—many mention it as a highlight, with Morgane praising the “super good” meal. During the boat ride, you’re also offered five beverages per person, including beer, soda, or water, so you can sip while enjoying the views.

This combination of good food, refreshing drinks, and scenic vistas makes the experience feel well-rounded. Nina appreciated the “delicious” lunch and the fact that the guide wasn’t pushy about tips, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

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The Final Stop: Laguna Yalahau

The tour winds down with a visit to Yalahau Lagoon, where you can swim in the natural cenote surrounded by lush nature. The hour spent here is often praised by visitors for its tranquility and beauty. It’s the perfect way to cool down and reflect on the day.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Experience

The tour is quite comprehensive, with a total duration of 12 hours. The group size isn’t specified, but given the nature of the tour and the pickup/drop-off arrangements, expect a comfortably sized group. The transportation in the van is smooth, though Morgane did mention that the “little leg room” on the bus was a minor inconvenience.

The tour is well-organized, with admissions included to all listed sites, and the guide provides interesting insights. Skipping lines and having a live guide in both Spanish and English makes navigating easier.

Cost and Value

At $84 per person, this tour is generally good value considering all the inclusions—hotel pickup, boat ride, meals, and access to multiple scenic sites. Be aware of the surcharge of 700 MXN per person for entry, eco-taxes, and the boat, which must be paid before boarding. This extra fee is fairly common in such excursions but adds to the total cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a balance of scenic exploration and leisure time. It’s perfect if you’re seeking quiet beaches, natural swimming spots, and a laid-back vibe. It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and local flavor without feeling rushed.

It’s not ideal if you have mobility issues, are prone to seasickness, or prefer shorter, less involved outings. Also, since the tour involves several stops and a full day of activity, it’s best suited for those with some energy and patience for a longer day.

Final Thoughts

This Holbox Boat Tour from Cancun or Puerto Morelos offers a genuine taste of relaxed island life, combined with scenic boat rides and natural swimming spots. It’s a well-rounded day for anyone who loves exploring beaches, enjoying fresh food, and discovering lesser-known corners of Mexico.

While it’s a lengthy day, the included meals and beautiful stops make it feel worthwhile. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging. If you’re after a peaceful escape that highlights natural beauty and local charm, this trip is worth considering.

For those who want a flexible, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and enjoy good food—this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from most hotels in Cancun and Puerto Morelos. Be sure to wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, so it’s a full day trip. Be prepared for a lot of travel time and activity.

What is the price?
The tour costs $84 per person, with an additional surcharge of 700 MXN for entry, eco-taxes, and the boat. This fee needs to be paid before boarding.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is set, but you’ll have free time at some stops, like Holbox island and Secret Beach, to explore at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, it’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. Seasickness-prone travelers should consider this as well.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and beachwear. Luggage, large bags, drones, and tripods are not allowed on the tour.

Are bilingual guides available?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

All in all, this tour offers a good mix of scenic beauty, relaxed beaches, and natural swimming spots. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and enjoy a peaceful day in some of Mexico’s most beautiful waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: