Just returned from the island on 3/26. It was my first visit and we went on a moderate budget. I did take the opportunity to look at several of teh hotels and would highly recommend Playa de Media Luna if you want to go in the $130/night budget. If you are intereseted in higher end locations I think hotle Secreto is suppoesed to be niceer but we didn't have the chance to "look at"this secret hotel.

you don't need to stay on the beach, nothing is really on the beach. don't stay at avalon or nabalam.

i think cabanas del maria del mar is nice. http://www.cabanasdelmar.com/

its on the beach and not too colleg spring break like, although next door is a very college like scene.

you could also just go there and walk around the island and choses a place, right now it is not high season.

We've stayed at both Na Balam and Maria del Mar -- and liked them both. I have read bad reviews about the Na Balam, but stayed for 2 weeks last year, and 1 week this year, and found the rooms very nice, clean, and the staff very friendly and accommodating. The Maria del mar was nice too, but only stayed there for a couple of nights. Remember -- this is Isla Mujeres and it is far more relaxed than Cancun. We're planning a repeat visit in 2006.

My husband and I just got back from the island -- we loved it. I checked out a lot of the hotels while we were there. What is your preferred spending range? What do you consider romantic and NOT romantic in a place to stay? For instance, which matters more: lots of modern amenities or authentic tropical atmosphere? Do you want to be able to swim in the sea right there? Do you want/need a swimming pool?

There's something on the island for everyone, except possibly a spring-breaker.