Curator’s statement
On a recent trip to Tulum, my husband and I sought out the authentic natural beauty that once defined this region before it became a popular hotspot. We ventured off the beaten path down a bumpy dirt road into the Sian Ka'an Nature Preserve, a UNESCO site, escaping the noise and lights of the tourist areas. After two hours, we had the privilege of a bespoke guided tour of Casa Chable. It is an award-winning luxury property nestled between the Sian Ka'an freshwater canals and the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean with powdery white sand beaches. Still relatively under-the-radar, Casa Chable is a hidden gem in an area often referred to as “the Maldives of Mexico.” It offers a luxurious island paradise accessible via a two-hour off-road ride or a 30-minute chartered boat journey through the tranquil canals.
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Location/Getting There
Casa Chable is a private home-turned hotel. It is also one of the few accommodation and only luxury hotel located within the Sian Kaan Nature Preserve, a UNESCO heritage site since 1987. To access this property, you will need to pay an entrance fee into the park. 110 pesos or $6 for two guests.
The journey to get to Casa Chable is part of the experience. This luxury escape is in a very remote location that can only be accessed by a 2-hour drive down a bumpy dirt road, a 30-min chartered boat ride through the jungle canals after entering the Sian Kaan or for a very VIP entrance — a helicopter landing on the property’s beachfront.
The hotel does help coordinate boat and airport transfers if needed. We were quoted $800 for the boat and $1,050 for the airport transfer and boat. The boat can fit up to 6 people with baggage, so this pricing makes sense when traveling with a group.
Since Casa Chable is located 20 mins north of the tip of the peninsula and town of Punta Allen, I do recommend renting an SUV or 4x4 vehicle (with all the insurance). Make the adventurous drive yourself to have complete freedom to explore and stop off at white sand beaches and hidden Mayan ruins along your way.
No matter how you get there, once you arrive, you will be treated like an A-list celebrity at a private island resort with exceptional meals and service.
Room Options
The property features ten accommodations, including five "Casa Principal" rooms in the main house and five beach bungalows scattered along the beachfront, nestled within the lush mangrove jungle. The main house offers four rooms with king beds and one with two queen beds, providing a comfortable and elegant stay. Guests in the beach bungalows enjoy enhanced privacy, with outdoor showers and a serene connection to nature. Those staying in the main house benefit from easy access to the stunning living-room, lobby bar and pool deck. All accommodations are just a stones throw from the private powdery white sand beach, the restaurant, gym and rooftop spa, ensuring a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury.
On-site Restaurant
The on-site restaurant, Ku’um, is helmed by Chef Jorge Vallejo, the only Mexican chef with two Michelin stars. We had the privilege of dining there for both lunch and dinner, and each experience was exceptional. Following the chef's recommendations, we indulged in a delightful array of dishes. This included fresh tuna tartare in chili oil, local fish tostadas, roasted cauliflower and seafood pasta, each more impressive than the last. To top it off, we savored a dreamy cacao dessert, complemented by incredible cocktails that perfectly enhanced our meals.
On-site Activities & Tours
Guests at the hotel can enjoy a variety of on-site activities that enhance their stay. Bicycles and ocean kayaks are available for use, and the hotel offers à la carte wellness programming, including yoga and sound healing sessions. Additionally, the staff can coordinate local eco-tours, snorkeling excursions and boat tours through the stunning Sian Ka'an. Just steps away from the entrance gate, the private boat dock provides a picturesque backdrop, making it a must-visit spot for sunset viewing. The property’s remote location also offers excellent stargazing opportunities and allows for complete relaxation and a chance to disconnect from the outside world.
Need to know
When considering a stay at this exceptional hotel property, there are several key takeaways that make it a standout choice. It was awarded the MexBest 2024 title for “Most Romantic Escape in Mexico” and recognized by Condé Nast Traveler with the 2024 Choice Award for “Favorite Hotels in the Americas.” This hotel offers an unparalleled experience. With two Michelin Keys already earned, it promises not only luxury but also culinary excellence. The dedicated team of just 11 staff members — expanding to 26 during peak season — ensures a distinctly personalized experience for each guest. The hotel manager, Celina, exemplifies hospitality at its finest by showcasing her passion for hosting and deep appreciation for Mayan culture and the Sian Ka'an region in every aspect of her work.
Casa Chable provides a unique “private island” experience, making it an ideal venue for intimate weddings or special retreats with a hotel buyout of its ten rooms. While the remote location within a nature preserve may present some navigation challenges, the effort is well worth it. This helps maintain the area’s untouched charm and keeps this hidden gem off the radar for years to come.
This property is best suited for those seeking adventure, romance, ultimate relaxation and a chance to disconnect in remote paradise. Reach out if you would like assistance in curating a turn-key experience to this remote destination!
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Mexico. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lauren Ruehl's guide, Unwind in Luxury in Punta Mita, Mexico.
Travel Advisor
Ashley Christensen
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