WELCOME TO OUR PIECE OF PARADISE
GUIDE BOOK
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN EASY AND MEMORABLE STAY
Where the jungle meets the Caribbean Sea
casonapalms.com
Welcome to Casona Palms Dear Guests, Welcome to our home on the Costa Maya. We hope you settle in quickly, slow down, and enjoy this special stretch of the Caribbean. This guide begins with the details you are most likely to need during your stay, followed by information about the villa, activities, dining, shopping, health, safety, and area maps. Our resident caretakers, Israel and Rosa, are here to help make your stay comfortable, enjoyable, and safe. Please ask them whenever you need assistance with the villa.
Owner:
Ross & Julie Grundyson
Email:
juliegrundyson@hotmail.com
Owner mobile:
+1 816 808 7637 (Julie)
Caretaker mobile and WhatsApp: +52 983 126-5105 Website:
casonapalms.com
Before you unpack
-Download WhatsApp for communication during your stay ·Meet Israel and Rosa and agree on a convenient time for their daily access and housekeeping. ·Find the Wi-Fi password on the shelf beneath the kitchen mirror. ·Review the septic, water, and electricity notes on the next page; the villa is designed to operate gently in its coastal environment. ·Save the owner and caretaker WhatsApp numbers in your phone. ·At sunset, close exterior doors to keep tropical insects outside. One last suggestion: step to the water after dark and look up. The stars and Milky Way can be extraordinary here. Welcome to Casona Palms - enjoy your stay!
Ross and Julie Grundyson This guide is intended to help you enjoy the villa and surrounding area with confidence. Businesses, roads, prices, schedules, and services can change, so please verify time-sensitive information before setting out. If anything in the guide is inaccurate, or if you discover a place future guests would love, please let us know. We appreciate your help keeping this resource useful.
Find it Fast Arrival and departure
Check-in 3:00 PM; check-out 12:00 PM.
Wi-Fi
Starlink. Password is on the shelf beneath the kitchen mirror.
Phone service
Starlink provides service for WiFi calling and texting.
Drinking water
20-liter bottles are provided in the kitchen; refill bathroom bottles as needed.
Housekeeping
Daily basic housekeeping is included. Dishwashing and personal laundry are not included unless arranged.
Beach gear
Two kayaks, two paddleboards, life jackets on request, beach towels, loungers, and hammocks.
Medical help
Contact Israel first when practical. Private clinic and doctors are listed in Health and Safety.
Weather
Close ocean-facing and side windows when rain begins or whenever you will be away all day.
Guide Sections 1. Arrival departure and house rules 2. Villa essentials and daily living 3. Beach water and recreation equipment 4. Activities and day trips 5. Shopping groceries and fuel 6. Where to eat 7. Health safety and emergencies 8. Packing checklist and maps
1. Arrival Departure and House Rules Check-in: 3:00 PM Check-out: 12:00 PM Smoking: Outside only. No smoking inside the villa or on bedroom balconies. Pets: No guest pets are allowed. Security: Lock exterior doors at night and whenever you leave. Do not leave valuables on the terrace, beach, or visible inside a parked car.
Caretakers and housekeeping Israel and Rosa live in a small home at the rear of the villa. Let them know when you go out so they can keep a closer watch on the property. Because of the villa power, plumbing, and cleaning systems, they need daily access to the interior. Agree on convenient times when you arrive. They will not enter unannounced and will always knock at the side door. Floors are swept and garbage is removed during your stay. Sheets and towels are changed before arrival and at least weekly. Fresh towels are normally available twice weekly to conserve water. Ask if you need them sooner. Dishwashing is not included. Personal laundry is available for an additional charge. For stays longer than one week, please allow access to wash and change all linens. A tip at departure is customary if you are pleased with the caretakers. Ask the owner for guidance if needed.
Optional meal service Rosa is available to prepare evening meals and weekend meals for 350 pesos per meal. She can cook with ingredients you provide or shop for the ingredients for you. Arrange this before arrival or directly with Rosa after you arrive; advance notice is required.
Departure checklist Return the cooler and ice packs, paddles, life jackets, beach towels, cushions, games, books, and yoga mats to their proper places. Bring outdoor cushions and beach towels back to the patio. Turn off lights, fans, and appliances. Wash dishes Close exterior doors Return keys to Israel Tell Israel when you are leaving and allow him to help with luggage on the stairs.
2. Villa Essentials and Daily Living Wi-Fi and communication The villa uses Starlink Wi-Fi. The router is in the living room, and the password is on the shelf beneath the kitchen mirror. Please share it only with members of your party. There is no cellular network coverage at the villa, but calls and messages can be made with WhatsApp, Messenger, or Wi-Fi calling. Download maps and directions before driving to or from the villa.
Water electricity and septic system Please treat the villa utilities with care. Casona Palms uses off-grid and conservation-minded systems that protect the reef, mangroves, and surrounding environment. Septic system: Do not flush toilet paper, wipes, sanitary products, condoms, or other materials. Place them in the lined bathroom wastebaskets; bags are removed daily. Electricity: Power is 110 volts and comes from solar panels and batteries, with a backup generator. Turn off lights, fans, and appliances when not in use. Outlets use standard U.S. flat two-pin plugs. Water: Water comes from rain collection or is delivered by truck. Please use it sensibly. Water pressure may be gentler than at home. Water pressure: A pump increases water flow in the main house. It does not serve the casita, so water pressure in the casita bathroom will be lower. Hot water: Upstairs hot water may take a few minutes to reach the faucets. In the showers, the hot-water handle is on the left. Drinking water: Large bottles are supplied in the kitchen at no charge. Refill the small bathroom bottles from these. Ask the caretaker whenever you need additional water.
Windows doors floors and stairs Close ocean-facing and side windows when rain begins and whenever you will be away all day. Rain can pass through the louvers and make floors slippery. Use the doorstops when windows are open; coastal drafts can slam doors and damage locks. Never run on the polished concrete floors, especially with wet or sandy feet. Rinse sand off in the basin by the terrace steps. The stairs are steep. Use care and allow Israel to move luggage. Open and close window louvers carefully to avoid pinching fingers.
Kitchen and furnishings The cookware is nonstick ceramic and works best with a little oil. Use only plastic or wood utensils; never use metal utensils on the cookware. Use cutting boards rather than cutting on concrete counters. Use coasters on the kitchen and patio wood tables and on the kitchen island. Place oils and lotions on the ceramic tiles or wood trays provided. A cooler and two freezer ice packs are available for day trips and shopping. Do not sit on indoor cushions in wet swimwear or with suntan oil. Do not take indoor cushions outside or place them on the floor. Do not hang wet towels on wood chairs or furniture
Trash Two trash bins are under the kitchen sink: a small bin for perishables and a larger bin for paper, plastic, glass, cans, and other waste. The caretaker empties them daily.
What the villa provides Salt and pepper, drinking water, coffee filters, paper towels, dish soap, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, hand soap, toilet paper, beach towels, and outdoor clotheslines are provided. Herbs and spices are not routinely supplied
3. Outdoor Living Beach and Recreation Patio beach and grill The beachfront grill and outdoor dining area seat up to eight. Ask Israel for charcoal or wood, a lighter, and help lighting the grill in windy conditions. Three hammocks can be hung between the palms on request. Beach loungers and wood patio loungers are available. Return cushions and beach towels to the patio each evening. Never lie directly beneath coconut palms; falling coconuts can cause serious injury.
Kayaks and paddleboards Two kayaks and two paddleboards are available. Ask Israel to make them ready and request life jackets. Use equipment only in the sea directly in front of the villa and stay inside the reef. Do not cross the reef. It is shallow and sharp and can injure you or damage the equipment. Paddle straps are provided, and kayak or paddleboard anchors are available on request. Carry kayaks and boards with two people; never drag them on sand. Enter deep enough water before standing on a paddleboard so the fin does not break. Keep paddles with you. Supervise children at all times. Never take villa kayaks into inland lagoons. Crocodiles inhabit some lagoon waters.
Swimming snorkeling and walking The reef shelters generally shallow, calm water. Clear sandy swimming areas are available nearby, including a spot about seven minutes north along the beach. Coral heads with tropical fish sit between the villa and reef. The villa does not provide snorkel gear, so bring your own. Use water shoes for beach walks and check the Mahahual tide in a tide app before setting out. Israel can provide a walking stick if needed. Beaches in Mexico are public, so occasional passersby are normal. Keep valuables inside.
Indoor recreation A portable speaker, board games, novels, reference books, and four yoga mats are available. Please leave these at the villa for future guests.
4. Activities and Excursions Travel times are approximate. Confirm current hours, road conditions, prices, and reservations before leaving.
Swimming and snorkeling at Casona Palms The coral reef protects the water between the reef and the beach. Some areas are clear of turtle grass and offer swimming conditions suitable for small children. For exercise swimming, the sea about halfway to the reef is shallow - generally no more than 3 meters or 10 feet - and usually calm. Beaches are public up to approximately 20 meters or 65 feet from high tide, so you may walk the coast to find the swimming area you prefer. Coral heads with many species of tropical fish sit directly in front of the villa, about halfway to the barrier reef. The villa does not provide snorkeling equipment, so bring your own. Recommended snorkeling and swimming nearby • Mayan Beach Garden: Approximately 20 minutes from the villa. Owner Marcia is an avid snorkeler and can recommend where to snorkel. mayanbeachgarden.com • Guided snorkeling in Mahahual: Nohoch Kay and Blue Kay are recommended options along the malecón. • Beach clubs for swimming: YaYa Beach Club, Nacional Beach Club, and Malecon21 all provide convenient places to combine swimming with a day in Mahahual.
Walking the coast At low tide, check an app such as Tides Near Me and select Mahahual. You can often walk a long distance north or south; water shoes are recommended. A good swimming spot is about a sevenminute walk north of the villa. The coast is mostly quiet except for pelicans, herons, frigate birds, and other seabirds. Some dogs may bark while guarding nearby properties. Do not try to pet them. Israel can provide a walking stick if needed. For a wider beach, drive south of Mahahual toward Xcalak. After approximately 17 kilometers, take the access road toward Punta Herradura, then turn right. Hayhu Beach Bar and Beach Club is about 100 meters farther. Reservations are required, and the fee is credited toward food and drinks. Kite surfing is also offered there.
Mahahual village and coastal recreation Visiting Mahahual Mahahual feels very different on cruise-ship days and non-cruise days, and both are worth experiencing. The village and beach clubs are liveliest when ships are in port. For a quieter visit, check the cruise schedule at cruisetimetables.com/cruises-to-costa-maya-mexico.html or arrive later in the day after passengers return to their ships.
Excursions Tequila Beach Tours organizes excursions from the Mahahual malecón including fishing, snorkeling, diving, Bacalar Ruins and golf cart rental. Visit tequilabeachtours.com or email info@tequilabeachtours.com.
Jet skis and wave runners Jet skis and wave runners are available to rent on cruise-ship days at several locations along the Mahahual malecón, including Tequila Beach.
Stand-up paddleboarding in Mahahual Undertoe SUP Adventures is located behind YaYa Beach Bar on the malecón. For a lesson or paddleboard rental, contact Julie or Curt at +52 983 120 2461 or visit UnderToeMexico.com.
Kite surfing A kiteboarding school operates at Hayhu Beach Bar and Grill, approximately 14 kilometers south of Mahahual. For information and reservations, visit facebook.com/Mahahualkiteboarding. WhatsApp 52 983 132 2200
Nightlife The Corner Bar is located one block beyond the El Nido Mahahual nightclub. Entertainment schedules in Mahahual vary by season, so confirm locally before heading out
Yoga and spa services Costa Maya Yoga Simone Kiedaisch offers daily yoga classes near YaYa Beach Bar. For schedules and booking, visit costa-maya-yoga.com or facebook.com/Mahahualyoga. Vida Bonita Spa and Salon Vida Bonita offers massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures beside Noah Beach Hotel. Book at vidabonita-spa.com or by WhatsApp at +52 983 110 8900.
Fishing Sources Fishing at the villa If you enjoy fishing, bring a rod. You can fish directly in front of Casona Palms. Israel can also arrange for a local fisherman to take guests into the open sea for fishing or snorkeling. Fly fishing with Nick Denbow The sea and inland lagoons offer excellent fly fishing. Nick Denbow guides experienced anglers and also offers three-hour discovery classes for beginners. He books in advance, so contact him early through The Western Caribbean Fly Fishing School at facebook.com/The-Western-CaribbeanFly-Fishing-School or on WhatsApp at 52 983 839 5367. Lagoon safety: Explore or fish inland lagoons only in a flat-bottomed boat with someone who knows the waterways, such as Nick Denbow. Crocodiles inhabit the lagoons. Never venture into them alone, and never take the villa’s sea kayaks onto the lagoons. Blue Angel Sport Fishing Captain Nacho Gomez Perez offers trolling, jigging, and deep-sea fishing trips. Call or WhatsApp +52 983 158 1627, email gomezpereznarciso38@gmail.com, or message him at facebook.com/fishingmahahualmexico or facebook.com/nacho.gomezperez.5. Scuba diving Mahahual has several dive centers. The owners specifically recommend the following two options: Amigos del Mar is located on the malecón, to the right when facing Nacional Beach Club restaurant and hotel. Owner Heiko Goetze is German and speaks fluent English and Spanish. He holds one of the limited licenses to take divers to the Banco Chinchorro atoll. Visit amigosdelmar.net or facebook.com/amigosdelmarmahahual. Gypsea Divers: Catherine Giroux’s dive center is just off the malecón, behind Nacional Beach Club restaurant and hotel. Catherine is Canadian and speaks fluent English, French, and Spanish. Visit gypseadivers.com or email info@gypseadivers.com.
Bacalar and the Lagoon of Seven Colors Laguna Bacalar is approximately 1.5 hours from the villa and makes an excellent day trip, either on its own or combined with shopping in Chetumal. Restaurants surround the lakefront and town square. Balneario Municipal El Aserradero is a municipal swimming area and pier between streets 12 and 14 on the lakefront. Tripadvisor lists a variety of boat, kayak, and paddleboard tours. The owners specifically note Day Tour Bacalar, which offers a three-hour tour on a large catamaran with sailing and swimming in the lagoon.
Sian Ka an Biosphere To explore north toward the biosphere, Mexico’s 3rd largest natural protected reserve, drive back down the coast road and turn right rather than left toward Mahahual. Take drinks and snacks, make sure the vehicle is in good condition with plenty of fuel, and use a vehicle high enough to clear deep potholes. The road becomes very rough after approximately 10 kilometers, traffic is scarce, and help may not be available. If you stop to explore, keep valuables out of sight.
Maya archaeological sites Chacchoben Chacchoben is the closest site, approximately 1.5 hours away. It is smaller than many regional sites but is especially well preserved. Drive back to Highway 307 and turn left toward Chetumal. The Chacchoben turnoff is shortly after Pedro Santos (small town), and the ruins are approximately 10 kilometers farther on the left. Visit when large cruise-ship groups are absent if possible; the experience is quieter and guides have more time to explain the site. More information: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chacchoben. Kohunlich Kohunlich is approximately 2.5 hours away. It is larger than Chacchoben but much less visited. Return to Highway 307 and turn left toward Chetumal. Continue about 15 kilometers past Bacalar, take the fork toward Escárcega, and watch for the Kohunlich turnoff on the left after approximately 40 kilometers.More information: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohunlich. Tulum Tulum is unique because its ruins sit directly on the coast. If you did not visit while driving toward Mahahual, consider stopping on the return trip. Expect larger crowds. The ruins are just off Highway 307 at the entrance to Tulum. More information: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulum.
Tour operators Mahahual Ecotours Victor Rosales is from nearby Bacalar and is knowledgeable about local history, culture, and wildlife. He specializes in private tours and tailor-made experiences based on his guests’ interests. Visit facebook.com/MahahualEcotours or info@mahahual-ecotours.com or WhatsApp 52 983 103 5955
Native Choice Native Choice offers tours in Mahahual and the surrounding area. Visit thenativechoice.com or WhatsApp 52 983 103 5955
5. Shopping Groceries and Fuel Plan ahead Mahahual has small markets and specialty shops, but selection changes. If you are driving from Cancun, Tulum, Bacalar, or Chetumal, stock up at a larger supermarket before reaching the villa. Cash in Mexican pesos is useful because card service can be unreliable.
Shop
Best for
Mini Super Bere
Packaged and canned groceries, dairy, wine, spirits, and drinks in the Casitas.
Maxi butcher
Beef, chicken, and pork in the Casitas beside Donosusa. Generally open until 2:00 PM daily.
Super El Chino
A large selection of produce, packaged and canned groceries, snacks, and homemade tortillas on the main road before the cruise-port roundabout.
Frutería El Chino
Fruit and vegetables opposite the electrical substation on the main road toward the lighthouse.
Panadería La Tartaleta
Fresh bread, pastries, cakes, and coffee. Locations on the malecón and in the Casitas across from the church.
Delicatessen Market
Cheese, cooked meats, frozen steak, and specialty sauces near the malecón.
Donosusa
Two Casitas locations with beer, wine, soft drinks, snacks, basic groceries, and household items.
Pescadería Sauri
Fish and shellfish when weather and supply permit.
Larger supermarkets Bacalar: Super Aki is a convenient option during a lagoon day trip. Chetumal: Chedraui at Plaza Las Américas and Walmart on Avenida Insurgentes offer a broad selection.
Fresh seafood Local fishermen may have fresh fish or lobster depending on weather and season. Israel can help arrange a purchase. Agree on the price before buying. Lobster season is July 1 - Feb 28. Confirm current regulations locally.
Fuel Mahahual has a Pemex Gas Station. Fill up before long excursions and do not rely on remote stations being open. The Mahahual station also sells snacks, alcohol, soda, and beer. Confirm the pump has been reset to zero before fueling. Ask whether cards are accepted before pumping; pesos are the safest option. A small attendant tip is customary.
Money and local transportation Some restaurants and shops accept international credit cards, but smaller businesses and stands may accept only pesos or U.S. dollars. Bring sufficient cash before the drive to the villa. The updated source lists a BBVA Bancomer ATM on Calle Huachinango, just past Farmacía Tucano, and an authorized exchange office on Calle Cherna near the malecón. Availability can change. Yellow taxis are economical; agree on the fare before entering. Colectivos and public buses leave near the east side of the Mahahual football field. For private transportation contact Perfect Trip Adventure Hub at +52 998 352 0160 WhatsApp or perfectrip1@gmail.com
6.Where to Eat Restaurants and hours change frequently. Confirm hours and reservations before making the drive, especially in low season or on non-cruise days. Between the Villa and Mahahual Place Mayan Beach Garden
What to expect Mexican and Yucatecan food with international influences in a tropical setting. Advance dinner reservations are required; ask about pizza night on Thursdays.
Place
What to expect
Nohoch Kay
Casual beachfront Mexican food and fresh seafood at the south end of the malecón
Nacional Beach Club
Beachfront breakfast, lunch, cocktails, swimming, and a relaxed daytime atmosphere
Mahahual favorites Place
What to expect
Camaroncito Caribeño
Breakfast and seafood near Calle Sierra and Calle Huachinango.
Lonchería Manuela
Simple local Yucatecan food and grilled chicken on selected days.
The Jungle Wey
A beautiful jungle setting in the Casitas with craft cocktails and excellent food. WhatsApp +52 983 101 1061.
Malecon21
Beach club, restaurant, tropical drinks, and sea views at the quieter south end of the malecón. Beach club reservations are recommended
YaYa Beach Bar
Oceanfront dining and a beach club for a full beach day. Beach-club reservations are recommended.
La Dolce Vita
Ice cream and coffee on the malecón beside YaYa Beach Bar.
Hayhu Beach Club
Beach club, restaurant, swimming, and a wide beach south of Mahahual. Reservations are recommended.
Bacalar favorites Place
What to expect
Mango y Chile
Vegetarian food and lake views near the fort.
Nixtamal
Highly recommended for its atmosphere, food, and service. WhatsApp +52 983 134 7651
Restaurante Cristalino
Lagoon-front breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the adultsonly Cristalino Hotel.
Money tip: Some establishments show prices in both U.S. dollars and Mexican pesos. Paying in pesos may be more economical. Confirm the total and accepted payment methods before ordering.
7. Health Safety and Emergencies If you need help Caretaker Israel:
+52 983 126 5105
Owner Julie:
+1 816 808 7637
Local doctor:
Dr. Daniel Castillejos: +52 983 335 6127
Local dentist:
Dr. Mario Adrián Soto Díaz: +52 983 130 3877
For a serious or lifethreatening emergency, contact local emergency services and alert Israel immediately. Medical listings and hours can change; verify availability before traveling.
Medical facilities • Mahahual: Small pharmacies carry a limited selection of medicines. CostaMed clinic is located in the Casitas and serviced by a local general practitioner. • Bacalar: A 24-hour clinic is listed near the fortress, approximately 1.5 hours away. • Chetumal: Clínica Carranza is a private general hospital, 2 hours away.
Weather and hurricanes • Close ocean-facing and side windows during rain; move cushions away from windows and ask Israel for help if needed • Hurricane season is generally summer through fall. Follow all instructions from local authorities and the caretakers. • If evacuation is ordered, leave promptly. Do not wait because the weather still appears calm; caretakers need time to secure the property. Official hurricane information: nhc.noaa.gov
Sun, insects and wildlife • Use strong sun protection, including on your feet, even in winter months. • Keep exterior doors closed from sunset to sunrise. Bring effective tropical insect repellent and avoid scratching bites. • If you encounter a scorpions a fly swatter or shoe will easily kill them. If stung, notify Israel for assistance and seek medical care if symptoms are severe or unusual. • Do not feed neighborhood dogs or allow them inside. Ask the caretakers to contain their dogs if you are uncomfortable.
Sea conditions and sargassum • Conditions are often calm inside the reef, but natural hazards still exist. Use water shoes, supervise children, and do not touch wildlife or coral. • Sargassum is seasonal and can arrive unpredictably. The caretaker clears what is practical once it has dried, while protecting the beach from erosion. • If stung or injured in the water, leave the water and contact Israel. Seek professional medical advice for serious pain, allergic symptoms, breathing difficulty, or uncertainty.
Personal security • Do not leave cash or valuables outside. Lock exterior doors at night and when leaving. • Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight. • Military or marine checkpoints may operate at night. Slow down, stop when directed, and say “ Casona Palms, Uvero” if asked where you are going.
8. Packing Checklist/Maps Essentials
Helpful extras
☐ Passport or identification
☐ Snorkel mask and fins
☐ Flight and car-rental confirmations
☐ Binoculars
☐ Driver’s license
☐ Camera and charger
☐ Bank cards and pesos
☐ Flashlight and batteries
☐ Travel insurance contacts
☐ Books or downloaded entertainment
☐ Printed directions to Casona Palms
☐ Laptop or tablet for streaming
☐ Phone and charger
☐ Reusable water bottle
☐ Medications and personal first aid
☐ Dry bag or waterproof phone pouch
☐ Sun protection and hat
☐ Day-trip tote or backpack
☐ Tropical insect repellent
☐ Plug adapters for non-U.S. devices
☐ Water shoes
☐ Laundry bag
☐ Swimsuit and lightweight clothing
☐ Reuseable grocery bags
Leave nature where you found it Do not remove living conch, starfish, coral, or decorative shells and natural items that belong to the villa. Follow all local rules about collecting shells and protected materials.
Entertainment note The villa has one television and Wi-Fi. Bring a laptop or tablet if your group would like additional access to streaming and entertainment services.
Area Maps