Destinations in Cancun and Riviera Maya are amazing and Isla Mujeres Transportation can take you anywhere at any time!
Cancun Hotel Zone is pretty close to the Isla Mujeres but private transportation is a must since public transportation doesn’t run that often.
Playa del Carmen is about 1 hour from Isla Mujeres Ferry depending where exactly you are going. It's very cosmopolitan and the main path to get to Cozumel.
Tulum is about 2 hours from Isla Mujeres ferry and is the hip destination of the area. Private Transportation to Tulum is always more comfortable and fast.