Isla Contoy was declared a protected area in 1961 and became a National Park in 1998.
The island acts as a vital biological corridor for migratory birds traveling between North and South America.
The southern portion of the island is designated as a restricted core area for researchers only.
It is one of the few places in the region where four species of sea turtles—loggerhead, hawksbill, green, and leatherback—nest.
The island is home to a unique subspecies of the brown pelican known as Pelecanus occidentalis carolinensis.
No residents live on the island, with the exception of temporary park staff and biologists.
Isla Contoy is a protected national park and nature reserve located at the intersection of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. The island serves as the most important sea-bird nesting site in the Mexican Caribbean, hosting over 150 species including brown pelicans, frigatebirds, and double-crested cormorants. Access is strictly regulated by the Mexican government, with a maximum capacity of 200 visitors per day to minimize environmental impact. The island features an interpretive museum, a bird observation tower, and walking trails through native vegetation. The surrounding waters are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, providing habitat for sea turtles and whale sharks. Fishing, extraction of flora and fauna, and the use of chemical sunscreens are prohibited to preserve the ecosystem. The terrain is primarily comprised of mangroves, coconut palms, and white sand beaches.
The observation tower provides an elevated panoramic view of the island's bird colonies and turquoise waters.
Apply biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before arriving, as chemical products are strictly forbidden.
Bring a hat and sunglasses, as the island offers very limited shade outside of the visitor center area.
Pack a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste, as there are no shops or convenience stores on the island.
Do not attempt to visit via private boat without a permit from the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas.
Visits are weather-dependent and subject to cancellation during high-wind conditions; the park is closed during periods of severe storm activity.
Use only reef-safe sunscreen, stay on designated walking trails, and do not touch or feed the wildlife.
