Do not miss a step back in time with this small, car free, island north of the Yucatán Peninsula. Several years ago, I found this tiny island while searching for a spot to see whale sharks. You see they migrate here during the months of June through September and you can snorkel with these gentle giants out in the wild. Amazing!
This unique island is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve and is separated from the mainland of Mexico by a lagoon called Yalahau. This lagoon is home to many incredible birds including flamingos, pelicans, herons and seagulls.
The best way to get there is to fly into Cancun and take a driver, about 2 hours, to a spot where you take a short ferry ride (30 mins) to the Holbox dock. There are several boutique hotels on the island and great restaurants. It feels as though you have stepped inside a time capsule as the streets are dirt and there are no cars. I did hear there are ATVs there now that some find annoying but it is still highly regarded.
This island is off the beat and path and feels very safe. The locals are very friendly (population about 1500) and the beaches are shallow, so they are great for families. The night market and little town shops are very fun and the day time activities can include horseback riding and kitesurfing along with snorkel & dive trips. However, the islands main industry is fishing and lobster is one of their biggest fishing products.
This is a very special spot to get out of the heavily populated Cancun area and experience a tranquil Mexican oasis. Isla Holbox is beautiful. 
A Girl on A Beach 