Barefoot bohemian in an undiscovered hideaway...
Just a stone’s throw from Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the still-undiscovered Isla Holbox is a car-free, carefree hideaway where the waves are gentle, shoes are frowned upon and sunset cocktails are the only commitment of the day. Here, you’ll find CasaSandra, a little funky beach resort that’s pared down and unpretentious. Think shabby chic with a blend of contemporary, elegant furniture and colorful fabrics & artwork. With fewer than twenty rooms, the property feels much like a converted hacienda: it’s rustic, yet the service is warm and the rooms are very well kept and carry a local flare.
There are plenty of places to relax, be it the poolside that’s shaded by palms, or the beach where you’ll not only find daybeds underneath palapas, but also bougainvillea-covered bungalows and hammocks strung between palm-trees.
Holbox is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve — a.k.a. the perfect place to become one with nature — making it one of the best places to get a glimpse of untouched wildlife like pink dolphins, giant manta rays and even puffer fish. Snorkel with the whale sharks, take a boat trip to the beautiful bird sanctuaries on neighboring islands, go horseback riding on the beach, or just take a bike to cruise around the sand-bottomed town.
Come evening, join the rest of the island to watch the sunset on the beach with drinks and live music. After dark, the live music continues along the water and food vendors line the streets of the quaint town just five minutes from the property. There’s a growing food scene with new projects like Luuma (a restaurant, bar & boutique, all-in-one), in addition to the great local favorites such as Milpa. There is no shortage of bars and the island is buzzy until after midnight on most days.
TOP TIP: Bring extra pesos, as the island only has three ATMs that frequently run out. Most restaurants only accept payments in pesos — so it's best to come prepared.
PERFECT FOR: Young Couples, Easy-Going Families, or those looking for something off the beaten path...
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FOR ISLA HOLBOX
