Isla Mujeres is a small and laid-back island located about ten miles north of Cancun. It’s a cool spot that’s mostly known for its relaxed vibe and not overly crowded beaches. While the Yucatan peninsula is pretty flat most of the year, it can come alive during the hurricane season from late summer to autumn, giving surfers a chance to catch some decent waves. The island hosts a variety of surf breaks, mainly reef breaks that tend to get better after consistent onshore winds or just before a hurricane.
The surf at Isla Mujeres can range from waist high to slightly overhead, generally between 3 to 6 feet (about 1 to 2 meters). The best swell directions come from East, East-Southeast, Southeast, and South-Southeast. When it’s on, the waves break over rocky bottoms which can be shallow in spots, so watch your step. The preferred wind directions are South-West, West-Southwest, West, and West-Northwest, and you'll find that both low and mid tides work well here. This spot caters to all skill levels, so whether you're a beginner or an expert, you can find something that suits your ability. Surfers can enjoy various board types here, including shortboards, funboards, longboards, fishes, bodyboards, and even kiteboards.
Access to Isla Mujeres is straightforward; just grab a boat from Cancun harbor. The crowd factor is typically low, making it a mellow place to surf. The environment is clean, and you won't have to deal with many locals in the water. Just keep an eye out for the shallow reef and rocks as you paddle around. Surfing here is best from August to October, which is when the swells start to pick up, so plan your trip accordingly!