Though Cancun makes most travelers think of white sand beaches and luxurious resorts, the fertile areas surrounding the city are home to some of the world s most captivating natural sights. This environmentally diverse region of the Yucatan Peninsula – known commonly as the Mayan Riviera – boasts numerous national parks, protected areas and ecoparks. One of the most popular natural destinations outside of Cancun is Isla Contoy – an offshore island that has been protected since before the birth of Cancun and designated as a national park in 1998. Though measuring just over five miles in length, Isla Contoy is home to a world of natural treasures and ecological diversity, including a remarkable beach area and lush mangrove swamps that support a vast array of sea birds. Isla Contoy is located 18 miles north of popular day trip destination, Isla Mujeres, and approximately 26 miles north of Cancun s Hotel Zone.
As Isla Contoy is recognized as the most significant bird refuge in the Mexican Caribbean, the diverse sea bird population found here has become one of the island s biggest attractions. In all, more than 150 different species share the small island, including both birds native to the Mayan Riviera and migrating species that utilize the refuge at distinct times throughout the year. Most notably, Isla Contoy is home to one of the largest brown pelican populations in the entire Caribbean region, an estimated five thousand frigate birds – large seabirds known for their impressive wingspans and the males distinctive red throats – and an additional three thousand double crested cormorants. The interior of Isla Contoy is also home to smaller populations of many sea bird species, exotic native birds and at least 98 unique plant species – including four varieties of mangrove that can be found across the island.
While the interior of the island serves as a bird refuge and scenic hiking area, the vibrant waters surrounding Isla Contoy are home to many unique sights rarely found in more populated beach areas. Between the months of April and October each year, four different species of sea turtles use the beaches of Isla Contoy as a safe nesting ground. Though the sea turtles are vigorously protected by the national park, visitors can still witness the arrival of the mother turtles early in the season and the departure of newborns just a few months later. In addition to annual sea turtle nesting, visitors to Isla Contoy can witness a variety of marine life just offshore, including the island s famous manta rays that gather near the main dock. While enjoying the beach and the warm water, it is also common for visitors to spot strange, but docile creatures such as spiny lobsters and sea snails.
Though there are plenty of interesting environmental sights to be found across the island, many tourists make the trip to Isla Contoy simply to relax on the beach. Along the protected western shore, visitors will find a secluded beach dotted with palm trees, as well as ample seating and palapa shades. When visiting Isla Contoy as a day trip destination from Cancun, it is possible to spend an entire afternoon enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this unique beach. The eastern shore of the island, though not home to any sandy beaches, is also worth a visit to experience the scenic rocky shoreline and majestic Caribbean views.
Tour boats to Isla Contoy depart each day from Cancun and Isla Mujeres. Despite the accesibility, only 200 visitors are allowed on Isla Contoy each day in an effort to protect all of the island s wildlife. As a result, Cancun visitors hoping to explore Isla Contoy should make reservations with one of the few official tour guides well in advance, especially during high tourism season. The 1 2 hour boat rides are modestly priced and, just like park admission fees and all goods sold on the island, considerable proceeds are provided to the environmentally minded research organizations that help protect the island s natural diversity for future generations.
Though there are numerous ecotourism and outdoor recreation destinations located within a short trip of Cancun, few can compete with the exotic beauty of Isla Contoy.
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