Getting to Isla Isabel National Park
Isla Isabel National Park sits in Nayarit, Mexico, with Santa Cruz the nearest town of any size — about 32.8 km (20.4 mi) out, or roughly 47 min of driving.
Drive times from Isla Isabel National Park
Isla Isabel National Park sits close enough to Islas Marietas National Park, Sierra de Órganos National Park, and Volcán Nevado de Colima National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Islas Marietas National Park | 131 km (81.6 mi) | 2 hr 23 min |
| Sierra de Órganos National Park | 306 km (190 mi) | 4 hr 57 min |
| Volcán Nevado de Colima National Park | 351 km (218 mi) | 5 hr 37 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz | 32.8 km (20.4 mi) | 47 min |
| Palmar de Cuautla | 48.1 km (29.9 mi) | 1 hr 3 min |
| Tuxpan | 61.3 km (38.1 mi) | 1 hr 18 min |
| Villa Hidalgo | 68.5 km (42.5 mi) | 1 hr 25 min |
| Santiago Ixcuintla | 69.9 km (43.4 mi) | 1 hr 27 min |
| San Blas | 70.4 km (43.8 mi) | 1 hr 27 min |
| Tecuala | 75.4 km (46.9 mi) | 1 hr 33 min |
| Ruiz | 77.2 km (48 mi) | 1 hr 35 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Isla Isabel National Park?
Santa Cruz, about 32.8 km (20.4 mi) away — roughly 47 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Isla Isabel National Park?
The practical bases are Santa Cruz, Palmar de Cuautla, and Tuxpan — all within a reasonable drive of the park.