Casablanca

For the price, I can’t really describe how good the experience was. It felt very "cancun," and the worries and stress just washed away. Ernesto was a tremendous host. If you’re looking for peace, this is the spot. One of the smartest choices I made on this trip.

The place has a wonderful vibe and a great ocean view, and you can take bikes and a kayak around. Ernesto was kind to us the whole time. The kitchen was a little old and dirty, but that’s something the owner could fix. This is somewhere to relax, so don’t expect big parties or nightlife nearby. All in all, a good place to visit.

The owner was kind, helpful, and accommodating during our short stay, and went out of his way to arrange transportation to the airport. Our basic one-bedroom room was comfortable and had a beautiful view of the water and Isla Mujares. There’s also a beach restaurant a short walk away.

We stayed seven nights in the Beachside, Beachview Studio Suite, and the sunrise was picturesque every morning. I’d sit on the lounge chair on our front stoop and watch the horizon turn a brief, almost fluorescent orange before the color faded into a humid, hot day. Fluffy clouds gave the sun a little break. Ernesto would bring breakfast, always a beautifully arranged fruit plate with pastries and jam. He’s a friendly and helpful host, and prefers to communicate by What’s App. Add his number and confirm your booking 48 hours ahead to make planning your Mayambe Private Village trip easier. This is a good way to experience authentic Mexican culture instead of staying in the hotel zone. The Colectivo runs up and down Punta Sam, and you can wave it down and pay the driver 10 pesos. Walking south from Ernesto’s place, El Meco ruins are 13 minutes away and cost 55 pesos to explore. There are lots of iguanas. We took the Colectivo to the OXXO for sandwich basics, snacks, and drinks. There’s a mini fridge in the room, and water, ice tea, soda, and beer are all affordable. You’ll be thirsty in the heat. La Palapa Beach Pescados y Mariscos has phenomenal wood-fired pizza in the evening, but it’s not available until 5 pm. We went twice. Getting back to Mayambe can be confusing because there’s no sign. We waited until we saw Flamingo’s restaurant, then got off after it by calling out “Stop Por Favor.” It’s safe and locals are friendly. I struggled to figure out the local transport online before arriving, so hopefully this makes it easier. If Expedia offers airport pickup and drop-off, take it. The room felt cottage-like, with a familiar scent and simple comfort. The AC worked great for sleeping at night or escaping the midday heat, the Wi-Fi was excellent, and the shower pressure was good, though the knobs made it tricky to get the right temperature. The bed wasn’t the most comfortable, but once I was up and about for the day, the sore neck faded after a swim in the ocean. There was a lot of seaweed, but it wasn’t too bothersome, and the water was a lovely temperature. Ernesto can lend you kayaks for an adventure. Opening the door from outside was annoying, as I had to angle my arm and brace my elbow on the wall to push it in. I wished it had a handle. We were very happy with the vacation and glad we chose this as our base for exploring Cancun. I’d choose it again to support tourism income going to an individual instead of a hotel corporation. Great spot!