Marina Punta Sam Cancún
A tranquil coastal area in Cancun, known for its serene beaches and as a key departure point for Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Marina Punta Sam Cancún
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil coastal area in Cancun, known for its serene beaches and as a key departure point for Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy.
"Punta Sam offers a peaceful escape, but its isolation means most visitors stay within resort grounds."
Cargo Ferry Savings
Opt for the cargo ferry from Punta Sam for the cheapest ride to Isla Mujeres. :moneybag:
Book Ferry Round Trip
Consider buying round-trip ferry tickets for potential savings and to avoid long queues later. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Punta Sam Beach
Northern tip of Cancun
A serene escape with beautiful waters, often less crowded than other Cancun beaches. Ideal for a peaceful day.
Isla Mujeres Ferry
Marina Punta Sam, Puerto Juarez, Hotel Zone
A scenic and convenient journey to Isla Mujeres, offering stunning Caribbean views along the way.
Isla Contoy Excursion
Departing from Marina Punta Sam
Explore a pristine nature reserve with diverse birdlife and beautiful, untouched beaches. A true ecological paradise.
Planning Your Visit
Sargassum Season Alert
Ferry Logistics to Isla Mujeres
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cargo Ferry Savings
Opt for the cargo ferry from Punta Sam for the cheapest ride to Isla Mujeres. :moneybag:
Book Ferry Round Trip
Consider buying round-trip ferry tickets for potential savings and to avoid long queues later. :ticket:
Check Sargassum Reports
Sargassum can affect beaches. Check recent reports before your visit to manage expectations. :sea_wave:
Isla Contoy Permits
Ensure your Isla Contoy tour operator has the necessary permits for entry. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Cargo Ferry Savings
Opt for the cargo ferry from Punta Sam for the cheapest ride to Isla Mujeres. :moneybag:
Book Ferry Round Trip
Consider buying round-trip ferry tickets for potential savings and to avoid long queues later. :ticket:
Check Sargassum Reports
Sargassum can affect beaches. Check recent reports before your visit to manage expectations. :sea_wave:
Isla Contoy Permits
Ensure your Isla Contoy tour operator has the necessary permits for entry. :warning:
Punta Sam Isolation
Punta Sam is isolated; consider resort-based activities and avoid late-night travel outside resorts. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Marina Punta Sam is noted for its beautiful, serene beaches and as a convenient departure point for Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres. However, its isolation is a significant drawback, with recommendations to stay within resorts after dark. Sargassum seaweed can also be a concern during certain times of the year.
"Amazing people and service. Clean bathrooms and shower. I had booked a snorkling trip with them and the guides were just so helpful and friendly, took us to the great spots to experience the astonishing underwater life in Cancun. I 100% recommend this place for water activitie."
Sadman Kabir
"We did a snorkel tour which they took us to 4 different spots. Honestly it was little tiring for me but my family enjoyed a lot. We added an option for photo service only and I’m happy that I did it do so I can keep my beautiful moment. A lots of fish and turtles!"
Juno
"Punta Norte provides this excursion in Viator. From the transport to the activities, I recommend this service. We had a good time, was picked up on time, early, from hotel, once there were taken very good care of. Parasailing is very fun, and relaxing. I’m afraid of heights and I wasn’t scared at all, plus they dipped us in the warm ocean, it was awesome! Highly recommend. Jet skis are fun but scary, exhilarating, you should be very careful or you could lose control, but highly worth it for the $$. I would go again and use this company too, very professional."
Timisha Wilson (The-One-Tee-Dubb)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cheapest way to get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun is by taking the cargo ferry from Marina Punta Sam. For a faster and more comfortable experience, Ultramar ferries depart from Puerto Juarez and the Hotel Zone.
It's often cheaper to buy round-trip tickets.
Marina Punta Sam is approximately a 25-minute drive from the Cancun Airport and about 4 minutes from Marina La Amada.
Yes, there is a cargo ferry service from Punta Sam to Isla Mujeres that allows you to bring a car. However, for most visitors, renting a golf cart on Isla Mujeres is more practical and enjoyable.
Yes, catamaran tours to Isla Contoy often depart from Marina Punta Sam.
The most popular way to get around Isla Mujeres is by renting a golf cart. Taxis are also available, and it's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Buses also cover the entire island and are a convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry prices vary. The cargo ferry from Punta Sam is the most economical option, costing around $2-3 USD each way. Ultramar ferries from Puerto Juarez or the Hotel Zone are more expensive but offer a quicker journey. Prices can be found on their respective websites.
Booking ferry tickets in advance is not always necessary, especially outside of peak season. However, purchasing round-trip tickets can sometimes offer savings.
Be aware that ferry websites might not always reflect the most up-to-date sailing times.
While the tour price typically includes park entrance fees, it's essential to confirm this with your tour operator. Ensure they are authorized to visit the island, as not all agencies have the necessary permits.
Yes, there is a fee to enter Punta Sur on Isla Mujeres, often around $6 USD, which is considered well worth it for the stunning cliffside views.
Some golf cart rental places accept credit cards, but it's not guaranteed, so having cash is recommended. Ferry tickets can often be purchased with cards, but it's wise to confirm beforehand.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Punta Sam itself offers a beautiful, often less crowded beach experience.
Beyond renting a golf cart to explore, visit Punta Sur for breathtaking views, relax at Playa Norte, and enjoy the island's charming shops and restaurants.
Staying overnight is recommended for a fuller experience.
Punta Sam is described as a very nice but extremely isolated area. Visitors are advised not to leave the resort after dark.
It's ideal for those seeking a quiet, resort-focused vacation.
Isla Contoy is a protected nature reserve and a bird sanctuary, offering pristine beaches and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
Punta Sur offers dramatic cliffside views perfect for photos. Playa Norte's clear, shallow waters and the colorful streets of the island also make for great shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Punta Sam is quite isolated, with most dining options concentrated within resorts. For a wider variety, you'll need to travel to other areas of Cancun or Isla Mujeres.
Isla Mujeres has many great dining options, particularly on the north end. Look for local taco spots or enjoy fresh seafood at beach clubs like Guru or Mayan Beach Club.
Many restaurants on Isla Mujeres accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller establishments or street vendors.
Typically, tours to Isla Contoy departing from Marina Punta Sam include a full buffet lunch and unlimited drinks during the catamaran transfer.
You can find a range of food on Isla Mujeres, from authentic Mexican tacos and fresh seafood to international cuisine. Many beach clubs offer food as part of a minimum spend.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds for capturing the serene beauty of Punta Sam beach. Late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow.
Punta Sur's dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas are incredibly photogenic. Playa Norte's turquoise waters and the colorful streets of the island also offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and any restrictions within resort areas before flying a drone near Marina Punta Sam.
Isla Contoy offers stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and diverse birdlife, providing excellent opportunities for nature and landscape photography.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions on the ferries to Isla Mujeres. Enjoy capturing the sea views and the approach to the island.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure any boat trips are suitable for young children and that life vests are available.💰 Budget Travelers
✈️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Ferries to Isla Mujeres
When considering your ferry choice, factor in your accommodation location and budget. If you're staying near Punta Sam, the cargo ferry is a direct option. If you're in the Hotel Zone, Ultramar offers convenient departures. Some travelers suggest that even if you miss a scheduled Ultramar ferry, another will depart shortly after, making it a reliable option for flexibility.
Understanding Sargassum Seaweed
Before your trip, it's wise to check recent sargassum reports online or through local tourism channels. This will help you manage expectations and plan accordingly. Some tours, like those to Isla Contoy, depart from areas that may be less affected or offer experiences on islands with cleaner shores.
Even with sargassum, the vibrant marine life and the beauty of the turquoise waters often remain a significant draw for visitors.Exploring Isla Mujeres: Beyond the Golf Cart
Beyond these iconic spots, the island offers charming streets lined with shops and restaurants, particularly on the north end.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit