Holbox
Holbox real estate
Land, homes and small hotels for sale in Holbox
Holbox is a car-free island on the north coast of Quintana Roo, inside the Yum Balam reserve, known for whale sharks, sandbars and sunsets. It suits buyers who want a slow island pace and accept island logistics.
Holbox real estate is mostly small: lots, houses, boutique hotels and a few condos in the village and along the beach. The island sits inside a protected area, so permits and title matter even more than usual. The current listings are just below this guide.
Read more about buying in HolboxShow less
Area by area
What each part of Holbox offers
Village
Houses · small hotels
The center around the square, with sand streets, restaurants and services.
Holbox guide →Beachfront
Boutique hotels · villas
The north shore facing the sea, where most boutique hotels and beach homes are.
Holbox guide →What you can buy
Property types in Holbox
Lots. The most common listing. Check title, permits and what can be built inside the reserve.
Houses. Small homes in the village, many built for full-time living.
Boutique hotels. Small hotels and guesthouses, sold as real estate.
Condos. A limited number of units.
Before you buy
What we check on every Holbox property
Holbox sits inside a protected reserve, which makes due diligence the part of the purchase that protects you most.
- Title and land regime. A clean title chain registered in the Public Registry; some land on the island has complex history.
- Reserve and building rules. Environmental permits and limits on height and density.
- Utilities. Water, power and drainage on an island with limited infrastructure.
- Price against the market. An independent valuation against real comparables on the island.
- Total cost to close. Plan for closing costs of 7 to 10% of the purchase price on top of the price itself.
Buyer representation
Buying in Holbox with someone on your side
We don’t represent developers, so when you buy in Holbox with Playa Realtors the only interest at the table is yours. We work from our offices in Playa del Carmen and Tulum and cover Holbox in person.
Call or text from the US and Canada: +1 954-799-4141 · WhatsApp +52 984 186 5453 · [email protected]
Questions buyers ask
Holbox real estate FAQ
How do you get to Holbox?
Drive about 2 hours 30 minutes from Cancún to Chiquilá, then take a ferry of about 25 minutes. There are also small flights.
Can you have a car in Holbox?
No. The island moves by golf cart, bike and on foot.
How much are closing costs when buying in Holbox?
Plan for 7 to 10% of the purchase price, covering acquisition tax, notary fees and registration. The exact figure depends on the property and the price, and we give you a written estimate before you sign an offer.
Can I buy property in Holbox as a foreigner?
Yes, with careful review of title and permits. We walk you through the process step by step in a consultation.
