Isla Holbox isn’t exactly a shopper’s paradise, but there is a string of boutiques along Avenida Igualdad (just east of the central plaza) selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to whale shark magnets. Among them, Artesanías Las Chicas (tel. 984/875-2430, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. and 6–10 p.m. Tues.–Sun.) stands out for its high-end folk art, mostly from central and southern Mexico. It’s a bit pricey, but the items are unique.

If you’re into shells, Lalo.com (Av. Abasolo near Av. Pedro Joaquín Coldwell, tel. 984/875-2118) is jam-packed with beautifully polished conchas from all around the world. The owner, maestro Lalo, lives below the shop—just ring his bell, and he’ll open up the shop.

La Bambina (Av. Pedro Joaquín Coldwell at Av. Morelos, tel. 984/875-2420) is a boutique recommended by locals and expats for its quality and variety of gifts, many made by local artists. Hours vary.

Malls and movies have come to Holbox—well, make that “mall” and “movie,” but it’s a milestone all the same. Inaugurated in 2011, Plaza del Pueblito (Av. Benito Juárez near Porfirio Díaz) is a small commercial center located just off the central plaza, with boutiques, eateries, and the island’s one and only movie theater, a one-screen affair showing reasonably recent Hollywood films (US$2.50).