La Casa de Jardin

For our anniversary, we brought seven close friends to Casa de Jardin, and the setup made it easy for us to spend time together or break into smaller groups. There are three pools on three levels, and six distinctive rooms spread across three floors. We stayed in the Norte Suite, with its split-level design, cozy living area, kitchenette, and balcony facing the eastern coast. It felt very peaceful. Casa de Jardin is on the southern end of Isla Mujeres, near beach clubs and good restaurants. Shelly and Sue pointed us toward great places and helped us avoid tourist traps. Ulan was our favorite. They also handled restaurant reservations, taxis, and golf cart rentals, drawing on their local knowledge to make getting around simple. Shelly and Sue were gracious, knowledgeable, and accommodating throughout our stay. When the women in our group wanted massages, they arranged for masseuses to come to the property. Shelly also gave a cooking class to one friend and me. We made cilantro-pepita pesto toast points and fish en papillote with charred slaw, using fresh ingredients we picked up together at local markets. She shared stories about island life, restaurant tips, and her own journey along the way. Breakfast was included, and each morning Shelly, a Cordon Bleu-trained chef, made something different. We had everything from migas and sourdough cinnamon rolls to concha French toast and Mexican breakfast lasagna. For our anniversary dinner, she prepared panzanella, filet mignon and lobster over creamy polenta, and crème brûlée. It felt like a private five-star celebration. We left with full hearts, happy stomachs, and memories we’ll treasure. Casa de Jardin brings together local flavor, a charming setting, and heartfelt hospitality.

The spaces were thoughtfully laid out, clean, and really comfortable, and we loved the location. Our hosts were warm and welcoming, and the chef made incredible breakfasts. Truly a gem!

The rooftop pool had an amazing view, and we could hear birds in the morning and waves crashing on both sides of the island. It was peaceful to come back to this spot on the south end after spending time downtown. There are a few local places within walking distance, including a cute coffee bus and a beach club. Shelley and Susan went above and beyond, and their breakfasts were what we looked forward to most. Shelley surprised us with something new each morning, and she’s an amazing chef. I knew from finding the place online that it would suit us, and I highly recommend it. I can’t wait to return!

Pools on every level, views in every direction, beautiful rooms, and a relaxing location made Casa de Jardin feel like home. The beds were comfortable, and the walk-in shower was huge. Shelly and Sue went out of their way to make us comfortable, with so many thoughtful touches around the property. Chef Shelly’s breakfasts were awesome, and everything she made was top notch. We also asked her to cook dinner one night, and it was divine: steak, lobster, mashed potatoes, Swiss chard, and chocolate cake with ice cream layers. She started us with garlic bread points topped with mozzarella, fresh tomato, balsamic drizzle, and fresh basil, along with delicious authentic margaritas. We left feeling we’d found a home and friends for life.