My husband and I are thinking of staying on the island for 6 days at the end of March. Last year we stayed in Playa and loved the beaches. Will we have the same beach experience on Isla? We love playing in the water and some wave action is nice too. Also, any recommendations of quiet places to stay that are walking distance to eateries? We don't want an AI.

The beach in Isla is nothing like the beach in Playa. The water has no wave action at all and you have to walk out a mile to get ankle deep. Think you would be disappointed.

We stayed at the Avalon Reef Club and loved the beach. Yes, there is no wave action. We don't like waves. The water is calm and clear and the sand soft. We had to walk out several yards before it became waist deep. We prefered the beaches in Isla over Playa and Cancun, but still like Cozumel the best.

Here's a picture of the beach at the Avalon:

http://travel.webshots.com/photo/251...38640397PYaEGx

Here's a picture of Playa Norte Beach in town:

http://travel.webshots.com/photo/212...38640397IitcmR

We just returned from Isla and loved it, but I agree there was little wave action. The water was beautiful and the main beach, Playa Norte, was wide and nice.
The beach was low-key, but there were snorkeling and kayaking opportunities, so you could be active if you wanted.
As for quiet places, we stayed at Ixchel Beach hotel right on Playa Norte and LOVED it.

My husband and I just returned from the Yucatan. We stayed at 3 different places as we traveled by car. Our final destination was Avalon Reef on Isla Mujeres. The island itself is the most relaxing beautiful place. I never wanted to leave. We rented a golf cart and explored every nook and cranny of the island. It was amazing. The water is calm but absolutely beautiful. We cannot wait to return.

Interesting thread. I have stayed in Playa and Tulum. Loved both places. Tulum near empty gorgeous beach, lots of wave action on south side and calm swimming on north side, cool chill vibe and Playa better food and more party hip vibe.

Couldn't fit another day trip in but Isla is on our list for future...looks great.

Thanks