Description
Located to the northwest of Cancun, Holbox Island is just 42 km long. It is separated from the mainland coast by a shallow lagoon, which gives sanctuary to thousands of flamingos, pelicans and other exotic birds and animals. Most of the people on the island make their living from fishing. The streets of Holbox Island are made of white sand, common of Caribbean islands, and there are very few cars. Holbox is considered a virgin tourist destination as very few outsiders visit the island. In spite of the island’s natural beauty, inaccessibility has left it unspoiled by mass tourism, making it the perfect destination for those wanting to get away from it all and be at one with nature.
Casa Sandra is an owner-run rustic boutique hotel set directly on a lovely stretch of beach surrounded by lush plant life, home to colourful birds and exotic fauna. The guest rooms are beautifully designed with many local touches and have wonderful ocean views. The service is highly personalized and there is a fantastic restaurant serving exquisite Cuban and Mexican cuisine.
Enjoy a fabulous sunset, relaxing by the pool, fishing, snorkelling or an unforgettable visit to nearby Passion and Bird islands. Holbox has a very relaxed atmosphere and is well known for being one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel with whale sharks (between May and September).
Accommodation
Casa Sandra has a total of 19 rooms. There are Luxury Superior Rooms set primarily in the main building whilst other superior rooms and suites are housed in separate palapas plus there is also a two bedroom villa. The rooms are decorated in a fresh style, with white walls and linens interspersed with choice colourful Mexican fabrics, Cuban antiques and bespoke furniture. Nearly all the rooms overlook the sea and have a balcony area with hammocks, great for watching the amazing sunsets.
Childcare
Children are welcome at Casa Sandra and although there are no specific children's facilities cots, extra beds and babysitting can be arranged on request. The 2 bedroom villa and the Master Suite connected with a Superior Room make good family accommodation. The island is small and very tranquil so there is not lots going on specifically for children but there are plenty of natural wonders and activities that children can enjoy including kayaking, cycling, boat trips and playing around the pool.
Facilities
Casa Sandra has a pool with loungers, daybeds and a pool bar, surrounded by tropical gardens. They also have an excellent restaurant serving delicious Mexican and Cuban cuisine, featuring plenty of local seafood. Inside there is a small lounge area with books.
Activities
Holbox is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors, nature and the sea. Guests at Casa Sandra can enjoy cycle rides into the village, birdwatching, scuba diving, strolls by the ocean, deep sea and fly fishing, fantastic kite surfing, snorkelling, kayaking through the mangrove and riding along the beach. During May-September whale sharks frequent the waters around Holbox and boat, snorkel and dive trips can be taken to see these magnificent creatures.
When to travel
The Yucatán Peninsula is hot and humid. The rainy season is mid-August to mid-October, when there’s afternoon showers most days. The best time to visit is during the dryer, slightly cooler months between November and May. Hurricane season runs from June to November. May to September is best for seeing flamingos and whale sharks.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Holbox Island, Mexico
CasaSandra is set on Playa Norte on Holbox Island, a sandspit island located off the northeastern tip of Quintana Roo on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, where the Caribbean Sea converges with the Gulf of Mexico.
How to get there
11 hour international flight to Cancun International Airport. From the airport, is a 2 hour drive to the small coastal village of Chiquila, followed by a 30 minute boat ride to Holbox Island.
