Holbox (hole-bosh) is a 26-mile long island located near the northeastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo. Beautiful seashells are constantly washing up onto its fine white sand beaches. Holbox Island is part of the Yum Balam Reserve.  The reserve (established in 1994 and covering an area of more than 380,000 acres) includes other islands (Isla Pajaros, Isla de la Pasion) and the Yalahau Lagoon and mangroves.

Holbox is the last corner of the Peninsula of Yucatan, where the sun more than warms your skin, the air is fresh and clean, and you can still walk around barefoot. The jade green waters of the Gulf of Mexico are usually calm and shallow, making it a great place for swimming with children.

Initially settled as a pirates´ refuge, shark-hunters soon discovered the island. Nowadays, Holbox is a quiet, traditional fisherman’s village.  As time would have it, Holbox Island is timidly beginning to face tourism.

Located in the Natural Protected Area of Yum-Balam, it is the perfect place to observe nature, undisturbed by human presence.  You will be amazed when you watch the dark night sky, which is incredibly spotted with stars, as you stroll along the beach.  Watch impressive sunrises and sunsets over the ocean.

On this island there is only one small village, also called Holbox, where less than 2,000 people make their home. The streets are sand lined with brightly painted wooden houses. There are no cars, as locals drive golf carts and bicycles.

The majority of the locals are fishermen. The catch is always abundant, including red snapper, bonitos and grouper.  Fishermen also catch lobster and octopus in season. As a result, seafood sold at local restaurants is fresh and delicious. Treat yourself to some of the world's best ceviche, a dish served cold with fish, shrimp or other shellfish marinated with tomatoes, vinegar and oil, cilantro and garlic.  Don’t forget to try the lobster and shrimp pizzas too!

For more information about Holbox, please visit the following websites:

www.locogringo.com/holbox/
www.holboxisland.com
www.mextreme-travel.com