About Zaza Yacht & Beach Club
Zaza Yacht & Beach Club is a luxury seaside venue on the south tip of Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo. Opened in April 2023 in the former site of the Captain Dulce beach club , this two-level bohemian-style complex combines a white-sand beach, saltwater pool and full-service restaurant with a private marina. Designed by local entrepreneurs to meet growing tourist demand, Zaza offers a high-end “yacht club” experience on Isla Mujeres. It features spacious palapa lounges (covered open-air decks) that together seat about 200 guests , a large heated pool with swim-up bar , oceanfront dining under shade, and its own deep-water dock for boats . Zaza has quickly become notable for its upscale yet laid-back vibe – a fusion of Mexican beach culture and lively entertainment – and it is the only venue on the island designed for sizable events, from gourmet beachfront dining to DJ-powered dance parties. Positioned on Carretera Garrafón Km 4.5 (Punta Sur Road) , it simultaneously serves locals and international visitors looking for luxury coastal entertainment. The site retains echoes of Isla’s colorful maritime history (the prior Captain Dulce attracted snorkelers and boaters and even housed a small maritime museum ), but Zaza’s new owner-operators have refitted it as a modern destination for both daytime leisure and nightlife.
Events and Programming
Zaza hosts a mix of daytime beach club activities and nighttime parties. By day, the club offers all-inclusive day passes or la carte dining, usually featuring live acoustic music or local DJs, beach games, watersports (kayaks, paddleboards) and casual poolside fun . Weekends and holidays turn up the energy: Zaza is known for themed electronic dance festivals and sunset parties, often organized by brands like “Ritual” and “The Secret Circle.” Recent events have included the “KIMONOS @ Isla Mujeres” beach festival (April 2024) www.ticketfairy.com , the “Halloween by Ritual” nighttime rave (November 2024) www.ticketfairy.com , and other dance music fiestas with international and local DJs. These club nights often draw college-aged and young professional crowds; tickets typically range from roughly MXN$550–$1,100 ($30–$60 USD) per person for general admission www.ticketfairy.com , with higher-tier VIP table packages for groups. (For example, recent events offered early-bird tickets around MXN$550 and VIP 10-person tables costing tens of thousands of pesos www.ticketfairy.com .) Zaza’s programming calendar is lively: look for Latin and electronic music parties, celebratory events on national holidays (like Mexican Independence Day), plus one-off festivals featuring boat transfers and welcome drinks. On slow days it still buzzes with regular beach activities, loungers under palapas, and a steady soundtrack of lounge, reggae and Latin tunes. While Zaza doesn’t host large concert tours, its reputation rests on intimate, high-production beach parties and special events like weddings or corporate outings (the venue offers both spaces and event-planning services ). In short, visitors can expect a daily beach-club scene with DJs in the afternoon, and peak nightlife events on Friday/Saturday nights and select dates.
Tickets and Booking
To visit Zaza, no ticket is needed on most weekdays if you just want to lounge or dine – you can walk in and pay for food & drinks à la carte. However, weekends and party nights often require advance booking. Day passes (11AM–5PM) can be reserved online or via tour operators; for example, travel agents list a standard adult day pass (open bar and buffet) around US$70 (deposit $10) and a premium pass around US$90 . Booking early is wise, as popular days and beds/cabanas can sell out. For evening events (DJ parties, festivals) tickets are generally posted by promoters several weeks in advance. These events frequently sell out, so it’s best to buy online soon after release. Tiered options typically include general admission, plus VIP “table” packages for groups (each table accommodating up to 10 people ). For example, recent parties had early-bird GA tickets ~MXN$550 and VIP tabletop reservations ranging from ~MXN$20,000 to MXN$50,000 depending on proximity to the DJ. Tickets are often sold on authorized platforms or through local promoters (avoid unofficial resellers). Some events offer bundled transport deals (yacht or bus from Tulum/Cancún) www.ticketfairy.com ; otherwise guests usually arrange their own ferry and taxi. There is no traditional box-office on Isla Mujeres, so most advance tickets are digital – check event websites or contact Zaza via phone at +52 998 763-2353 (as listed on listings www.ticketfairy.com ) for reservations or last-minute inquiries. For groups and special days (weddings, large parties) Zaza’s events team can be contacted directly (email or phone via their site) to discuss packages. In summary: plan ahead, use official channels for day passes or event tickets, and note that prices vary with season and demand.
Seating and Layout
Zaza has an open-air tropical layout with lounging areas rather than fixed seats. The main attraction is a large shaded palapa (open-sided thatch-roof bar and dining area) plus an upper-level palapa terrace – together these covered decks accommodate around 200 people . The pool area is adjacent, with drinks served at swim-up stools and cabanas flanking the pool . Surrounding the pool and main bar are numerous sun lounges and cushioned “beds” on the white sand beach. Guests without reserved seats can relax on any available lounger or beach chair. For a party event, general admission admits you to the open beach and poolside space; the best views of the DJ booth and stage area are usually at ground level under the main palapa or directly in front of it. VIP upgrades often include dedicated poolside couches, private beachfront palapas or VIP tables under the main roof (each labeled “Backstage,” “Gold,” “Silver,” “Bronze” etc.) that come with service . (Each VIP table seats up to 10 and requires a deposit.) Acoustically, the beach club is designed for open-air parties: speakers and lights are typically positioned around the pool and palapa. For daytime visitors, the large pool with transparent tile is a highlight; seating near the pool or on the dock out front offers great sunset views. Note that some popular spots fill up quickly – arrive early for prime sunbeds or poolside chairs. Areas to avoid depend on preference: if you dislike bass, stay closer to the water’s edge or dining tables when DJs play. In calm days without events, pick a lounge in the sand under the palapa for shade, or one of the oceanfront palapsas for sea breezes. Overall, Zaza’s layout emphasizes casual resort-style seating rather than strict reserved rows, with the restaurant and bars at the center, and beach/pool areas around it. Its two-tier vistas (roof deck above, pool below) make it easy to roam for different experiences on wet or dry days.
Getting There and Parking
Zaza is at Carretera Garrafón Km. 4.5 on Punta Sur in southern Isla Mujeres . To reach it, most visitors first take the ferry from Cancún to Isla Mujeres – the Ultramar ferry runs from Puerto Juárez or Gran Puerto (downtown Cancún) to Isla’s main dock every 30–60 minutes during the day. Once on Isla Mujeres, you can take a taxi (carril) directly to the Punta Sur road. Zaza is on the main south road, about a 15–20 minute drive from the ferry terminal in downtown. There’s no bus service on the island, but taxis, moto-taxis and private shuttles are plentiful. Rideshare apps do not operate here, so use licensed yellow taxis or book a local transfer. If driving to Isla is not possible, consider a combination of ferry and taxi: the ferry crossing takes ~15 minutes. Note that the last return ferry typically leaves Puerto Juárez around 11:00PM www.ticketfairy.com , so plan accordingly for late-night returns. Zaza also caters to boaters: it has a large private dock that can receive medium to large boats – the venue markets itself as “Yacht Club” for this reason. If you arrive by private yacht or catamaran, you can tie up at their pier and come right up to the bar. For those driving on foot, Zaza offers on-site parking. Signage on TripAdvisor notes “Parking Available, Validated Parking” , meaning guests typically park for free with validation from the restaurant. (During busy events, parking may be limited, but additional public parking lots are a short walk away.) In summary: fly or bus to Cancún, ferry to Isla Mujeres, then taxi or rental cart to Carretera Garrafón km4.5. Parking at Zaza is free for patrons. Rideshares off the island are not available, so rely on taxis or pre-arranged transportation for the last leg.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, expect a relaxed, tropical atmosphere. There is no formal bag line, but staff may do a quick pat-down for large bags or prohibitions (common sense items like weapons or drugs are not allowed). Zaza is heavily open-air but has ample shade under its palapa roofs, blocks and the surrounding foliage. Security is generally light but vigilant – the focus is on enjoying music and scenery, not strict club bans. ID checks are performed for age-restricted events: all evening parties list 18+ on ticketing www.ticketfairy.com , so carry photo ID. The crowd is casual-beach chic during the day (swimsuits, flip-flops, sun hats) and can be more upscale or thematic at night (costumes or clubwear for themed events). Photography is usually allowed for personal use (guest photos); no professional cameras or drones without permission. On site you’ll find: a full bar serving frozen cocktails, beer and wine; the kitchen/restaurante with Mexican and seafood menus; shops or kiosks for sunscreen or souvenirs; and waterfront lounging areas. The restaurant serves gourmet-Mexican beach fare (ceviches, tacos, grilled steaks and seafood) , with a lunch-and-dinner menu priced at moderate range ($$ on TripAdvisor). Waitstaff circulate around lounges as well as table seating under the palapas. There is no traditional coat check, but personal lockers are not typical – keep valuables with you. Free Wi-Fi is often available in lounge areas, and cell reception is decent (Isla uses major Mexican carriers, though signal can drop near water). Restrooms are located in the main palapa building. Zaza has family-friendly amenities like a children’s play area , and even accepts dogs . If you’re staying, a small cloakroom or lockers might be offered for event nights (ask the front desk or your server). In general, Zaza feels like a high-end beach resort – relaxed entry, friendly staff, festive music – but one with the amenities of a nightclub. Treat it like a resort beach/club hybrid with open dancing areas rather than a formal concert hall.
Nearby Amenities
South Isla Mujeres is less built-up than downtown, but there are still helpful options near Zaza. Notably, the Nomads Experience hostel (rebranded as Mayan Monkey) is literally adjacent to Zaza , complete with its own bar/pool area – you can see it from Zaza’s dock. Many travelers use Mayan Monkey for lodging or stop by its hammock lounge for a snack or cocktail (it’s open until 1:00 AM ). Beyond that, stand-alone restaurants and bars are scarce right at the tip of the island; most dining and nightlife are clustered in the main town several kilometers north. For pre-event dining, you can eat at Zaza’s restaurant or take a 5–10 minute taxi to the downtown Zona Hotelera, where dozens of restaurants line the waterfront. After the evening, if events run late note that taxis do run all night on Isla (though riding in the dark can be pricey), or you may choose to stay at nearby lodging. For post-club outings, the central plaza (Playa Norte area) has bars open late on weekends. Other nearby attractions include Garrafón Natural Reef Park (an adventure snorkeling and zipline park, useful to combine with a Zaza day trip) and the Punta Sur cliff lookout with Mayan sculpture gardens – both cultural sites are walkable from Zaza before the sun goes down. In summary, aside from Zaza’s own dining, the closest quick options are the Mayan Monkey bar next door and any taxis back to north-Isla restaurants. Visitors often plan to arrive early, sight-see or snorkel at Garrafón, then head to Zaza; and conversely, head back up-island for late-night food or to their hotels after Zaza events.
What Makes This Venue Special
Zaza Yacht & Beach Club stands out in the local scene for several reasons. It was the first major upscale beach club on Isla Mujeres outside the town center, bringing high-end design and a yacht theme to the island’s laid-back beach culture. Architecturally, its massive thatch palapa roofs, expansive decks and oceanfront pool create a bohemian-meets-party vibe unlike standard restaurants. The concept of integrating a yacht marina with a beach club is unique here – guests can arrive by sailboat or catamaran and dock right at the club . It also offers what few Isla venues do: a built-in event production capability. Promoters can stage full-scale beach parties with DJs and lighting under the covered palapa or out on the sand. Zaza’s management touts features like “romantic sunset views,” “luxury amenities” and “professional event services,” which it delivered for its grand opening launch (local government officials and tourism staff were in attendance ). Culturally, Zaza has quickly become a hotspot for both locals and international tourists, especially those coming from Cancún’s booming nightlife who want to extend the party by boat or ferry. It also revived a beloved island spot – the Captain Dulce location – which had closed in 2022 , bringing new life and investment to that stretch of coast. For attendees, the blend of palm-shaded lounge, azure Caribbean water and a festive atmosphere at every hour makes it memorable. Even the food is elevated: reviewers note the restaurant’s mix of fresh regional seafood and Mexican dishes provides a taste of Yucatán in a tiki-chic setting . In short, Zaza matters because it marries luxury and laid-back fun: guests can sunbathe by day on white sand with poolside cocktails, then dance under the stars to world-class DJs by night – all in one spot. This versatility, plus its seaside chic aesthetic and capability to host weddings or private groups in style , give Zaza a special place in Isla Mujeres’ evolving entertainment scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main restaurant and pool deck are at ground level with wide walkways, so guests in wheelchairs can access most areas. (The upper deck may require stairs.) Zaza offers ramps and paths around the beach area. Restrooms include at least one wheelchair-accessible stall. If you need special accommodations (e.g. a golf cart shuttle to the yacht dock), call ahead to ask. What to Bring: Day visitors should pack swimwear, flip-flops or sandals (no high heels on the sand), and sun protection (hats, sunscreen). Towels are usually provided with loungers for day pass holders. Bring photo ID if you plan to stay late or attend an 18+ event. Cash and cards: the club accepts major credit cards , but carrying pesos is wise (for tips or cover charges at events). It’s also a good idea to have airline or ferry tickets printed or accessible, since staff may not honor late departures if the ferry has left. Dress Code & Policies: By day, attire is very casual (‘beach chic’). After dark at party nights, many guests dress up – think smart resort wear. Themed events (like Halloween) may even require costumes . There's no formal dress code, but swimsuits are acceptable since it’s a beach club. Children and families: Zaza is family-friendly during daytime hours (there’s a kids’ play area and casual poolside dining). However, nighttime events are 18+ www.ticketfairy.com , so kids cannot attend late parties. Do’s and Don’ts: Do reserve a spot if you want a beach bed or cabana (especially on holidays). Do book tickets in advance for popular events; lines at the gate can form early on show nights. Do tip your servers and bartenders – service is attentive. Do respect nature: the water is crystal clear, so avoid trashing the beach or flushing toilet-paper in Ex-Pat style (use the bins). Don’t bring outside food or alcohol to the club (it’s not allowed and they may check bags). Don’t expect public restrooms at the beach outside Zaza – use theirs. Don’t rely on ferries after 11pm; if your event goes late, pre-book a taxi or plan to leave Isla. Age & Entry: For day entry into the restaurant and pool, there is no age restriction (children love this spot!). For evening parties, entry is strictly 18+ (doors can check IDs). Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas (as in parkland rules). Photography by guests is fine, but drone use is prohibited. Best Time to Arrive: If you’re there for a party, doors often open a couple of hours before the advertised DJ start-time. Arriving early lets you secure a good table or lounger and catch sunset. For the beach club experience, midday (11AM–2PM) is prime for sun and pool; the sunset hour is also gorgeous from the dock. Connectivity: Wifi (if offered) tends to cover the main dining and bar area, but cell service is generally okay. There are charging stations if needed. Inclement Weather: Zaza is partly covered by large palapas, and events proceed rain or shine (in case of sudden tropical showers). If weather is severe, the venue management will announce changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets or day passes for Zaza Yacht & Beach Club?
Day passes (for pool and beach access) are usually booked online or by phone in advance. Day passes often include open bar and buffet lunch. For special events and parties, tickets should be purchased as soon as they go on sale, since popular nights often sell out. Look for official sale links via the club’s phone or reputable ticket platforms. At least one example event listed GA tickets ~MXN$550 and VIP packages www.ticketfairy.com . Always use confirmed venues (e.g. Zaza’s official contact or recognized sellers) to avoid scams. Box-office on arrival may only be available if event isn’t sold out.
What do day passes and tickets include, and how much do they cost?
A standard day pass (~US$70) includes full use of the pool, beach loungers and a “welcome” drink, plus an open bar of basic drinks and a buffet lunch . A premium pass (~US$90) adds upgraded cocktails, towel service, and access to premium beach beds . Evening event tickets vary: early-bird general admission has been around MXN$550 (about $30) for dance parties www.ticketfairy.com . Premium table tickets (for groups) can reach tens of thousands of pesos (e.g. MXN$50,800 for a large table) www.ticketfairy.com – these are essentially dining/drink minimums. Each event’s price range is posted online when tickets go on sale. These costs include access and most drinks/food (day passes are essentially “all-inclusive”).
What are the club’s hours of operation?
Zaza is open every day from late morning into the evening. According to recent listings, daily hours are roughly 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM . Weekend opening is extended late night: on Friday and Saturday nights they stay open until about 2:30 AM (with music and events). The exact schedule can vary for special events, so check Zaza’s current hours on a reliable site. But as a rule: breakfast/brunch to early evening for the beach club, and late-night on weekends for parties.
Where is Zaza Yacht & Beach Club located, and how do I get there?
Zaza is on Isla Mujeres at Carretera Garrafón Km. 4.5 (Punta Sur area) . To get there, take a ferry from Cancún (Puerto Juárez or Gran Puerto ferry terminal) to Isla Mujeres. Once on Isla, hire a taxi or colectivo (shared van) for the ~15–20 minute ride to Punta Sur. Follow signs for Carretera Garrafón and look for the large bohemian palapas. On-site parking is available and typically free (validated for club guests) . Taxis can drop off at the entrance. If you have a private boat, Zaza’s big dock can accommodate yachts . Ferries run roughly until 11 PM (last departure) www.ticketfairy.com , so plan your return trip in advance.
Is there parking at Zaza, and is it free?
Yes. Zaza has a parking lot on the premises with space for customers. Usage is generally free for diners and day-pass guests – just ask for validation when you enter. The TripAdvisor listing confirms “Parking Available, Validated Parking” . If the lot is full during large events, you can park in nearby public lots and walk a short distance. Note that on Isla Mujeres, you’ll park high and walk down to Zaza’s beachfront level.
Does Zaza Yacht & Beach Club have a dock for private boats?
Yes. In fact, the “Yacht” in Zaza’s name is literal – the club features a large boat dock designed to receive private sailboats and smaller yachts. The venue’s promotional materials emphasize that it can accommodate any type of vessel . You can arrive at the venue directly by sea and tie up at Zaza’s pier. This makes it popular for private charters and boating charters that bring guests to the island for the day or evening.
What is the seating and layout like? Are there VIP or reserved areas?
Zaza is set up like a beach resort. There’s no fixed auditorium seating – instead you’ll find: a large covered palapa lounge (and an upper palapa) that together seat around 200 people , a pool with built-in barstools, and rows of beach loungers and cabana-style beds on the sand. Day guests can rest on any available lounger (subject to reservations). For big events, general admission is standing/open seating. VIP upgrades are offered – these include reserved tables under the palapa or private shaded cabanas with bottle service . Tables come in tiers (Backstage, Gold, Silver, Bronze) each for up to 10 people . The best view of the DJ or stage is typically from the center front of the palapa or pool area. The pool itself and beachfront offer alternative viewing spots. If you want shade, sit under the palapa with bar seating, or reserve a beach bed. If you want sun and view, secure a front-row lounger. In short, layout is ad-hoc: prime spots can fill up, but staff will usher you to open seats or tables according to your admission type.
What are the venue’s age restrictions and dress code?
During daytime hours, Zaza is family-friendly and has no strict dress code (swimsuits, shorts and beachwear are fine). After dark, any scheduled party or event is 18+ entry www.ticketfairy.com , and IDs are checked. Evening dress is usually smart-casual beachwear – for themed nights even costumes may be expected (for example, the Halloween party explicitly had a costume dress code ). In general, don’t wear shoes on the sand and bring something for sun and evening chills. Note also that since the club is on the beach side, informal attire like flip-flops and resort wear is the norm.
Can I bring children or pets to Zaza Yacht & Beach Club?
Children are welcome during day hours – Zaza has a children’s area and is very casual by day . However, nighttime events are restricted to 18+, so kids cannot stay for late parties. As for pets, Zaza is dog-friendly (unusual for a beach club). Guests have noted on TripAdvisor that dogs are allowed in the outdoor areas – just make sure pets are leashed and under control, and consider the heat/sand for their comfort.
What should I bring and what is not allowed?
Bring swimwear, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and ID for evening events. Towels are provided with day passes. Cash is useful for tips and small purchases (although cards are accepted ). You can bring a beach bag or small cooler (they supplied communal coolers on some party transfers www.ticketfairy.com ), but outside alcohol is generally prohibited except as part of BYOB packages arranged by promoters. Cameras and phones are fine; drones are not allowed. Avoid heavy jewelry or valuables, and do bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to bass music at night. In short, pack like for a resort-day and nightclub night combined, and check with staff if unsure about any items.
What kind of events and music can I expect at Zaza?
Zaza’s events lean heavily toward electronic and dance music. Resident and guest DJs spin house, techno and Latin-infused tracks for sunset parties and all-night dance festivals. For example, international DJ D’Witches and others have headlined Zaza’s Halloween event . You may also hear some Latin lounge or reggae tunes during the day, but nighttime programming is primarily high-energy electronic sets. The venue promotes recurring EDM events (like Ritual’s festivals). Occasionally there may be live Latin bands or DJ duos, but mainstream pop/hits nights are rare here – that scene is usually downtown. In summary, expect beach club beats by day and full-on DJ dance parties (often themed) after dark.
Does Zaza Yacht & Beach Club host weddings or private events?
Yes. Zaza offers dedicated event services for weddings, corporate retreats, and private parties . The beachfront pool area and palapa provide a scenic backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. They have a planning team and wedding packages, highlighting “romantic sunset views” and customizable services. Spaces are versatile: you can have an intimate beachside ceremony or a cocktail party by the pool. Because of this, many travelers report Zaza as a recommended spot for destination weddings on Isla. If you’re interested, contact Zaza directly – they have brochures and a sales director for events (as reported at their opening) .
