The sandbar · updated 2026-10-02
Punta Mosquito, Isla Holbox
The famous 2-km sandbar jutting east into the sea at low tide. Walk-into-the-water-up-to-your-knees-for-500m vibe. Pelican colony. Closed to the public during turtle nesting (May-October) — biosphere rules enforced by rangers.
Location: East end of Isla Holbox (beyond the hotel strip)
The quick read
Water
Shallow + calm
Sand
Fine white sand, sandbar extends east at low tide
Shade
None
Open
November–April only
Best for
- Walking the sandbar at low tide (unique experience)
- Pelican and shorebird photography
- Yoga / meditation / solo quiet
- Nov-Apr beach day away from crowds
Cautions
- CLOSED May through October — turtle nesting season, strictly enforced by biosphere rangers
- Can only walk the sandbar at low tide (check tables)
- No facilities, no shade
- Long walk from town, bring water and sun protection
- Mosquitoes serious — long-sleeve layer and repellent
How to reach
45 min walk east from town along the beach, 20 min by golf cart or bike. The sandbar itself appears only at low tide — check tide tables.
Best time to visit
November through April only (closed May-Oct). Morning or late afternoon for best light and least sun exposure. Check tide tables — sandbar only emerges at low tide.
Photo tip
The sandbar at low tide is drone photographer paradise — but drone use requires a federal permit in biosphere areas. For hand photos, the long receding sandbar at golden hour is the shot.
FAQ
- How do I get to Punta Mosquito?
- 45 min walk east from town along the beach, 20 min by golf cart or bike. The sandbar itself appears only at low tide — check tide tables.
- When is the best time to visit Punta Mosquito?
- November through April only (closed May-Oct). Morning or late afternoon for best light and least sun exposure. Check tide tables — sandbar only emerges at low tide.
- Are there facilities at Punta Mosquito?
- None — nature reserve, no development.
- Is Punta Mosquito good for swimming?
- Yes — shallow and calm. You can wade out 100 metres and still be at knee-to-waist depth. Perfect for kids and nervous swimmers.
- What should I bring?
- Sun protection is critical — bring reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sun shirt. Bug repellent for dawn / dusk. Water (no refills on-beach outside town). Check tide tables before you go — the sandbar only emerges at low tide. Camera for the sandbar at low tide is drone photographer paradise — but drone use requires a federal permit in biosphere areas.
Other beaches: Playa Norte · Punta Cocos