Beachfront palapa cottage with heated pool , sunsets and tropical gardens
Cottage in Isla Mujeres
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valuePrice for this property is higher than average in the area
Includes essentialsGarden, Pool, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
About this cottage rental
Cottage Sam is a private beachfront Palapa styled cottage with 22' ceilings just steps from the beach and the soothing salt water heated pool. Once inside the gated and walled enchanted Villa Makax, you’ll be in a world of your own choosing.
Located on the west side of Isla Mujeres overlooking the turquoise waters of the Cancun Bay beautiful views of sunsets and the twinkling lights of Cancun in the distance. There are restaurants and beach clubs within walking distance and the Turtle preserve is a short walk south down our beach. Our guests can be picked up for their Isla Mujeres water tours at our private dock on the laguna side.
Villa Makax's four cottages are very cozy and tastefully decorated. Each cottage has a king sized bed, seating area, smart TV, fully equipped kitchenette, refrigerator, full bathroom with shower, air conditioning and ceiling fans. Imagine relaxing on your private sea-side patio while listening to and watching the waves, just sitting here will take your breath away.
Chose from Villa Makax's 4 cottages on VRBO: 346507, 570965, 1239310, and 1253993.
Located on the west side of Isla Mujeres overlooking the turquoise waters of the Cancun Bay beautiful views of sunsets and the twinkling lights of Cancun in the distance. There are restaurants and beach clubs within walking distance and the Turtle preserve is a short walk south down our beach. Our guests can be picked up for their Isla Mujeres water tours at our private dock on the laguna side.
Villa Makax's four cottages are very cozy and tastefully decorated. Each cottage has a king sized bed, seating area, smart TV, fully equipped kitchenette, refrigerator, full bathroom with shower, air conditioning and ceiling fans. Imagine relaxing on your private sea-side patio while listening to and watching the waves, just sitting here will take your breath away.
Chose from Villa Makax's 4 cottages on VRBO: 346507, 570965, 1239310, and 1253993.
Amenities
Pool
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Smoking allowed
Parking
Balcony or Patio
Hot tub or spa
TV
Gym or Fitness Center
Garden
Map of Isla Mujeres
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
What a dream to wake up to turquoise ocean views. The property was quiet, peaceful, and well maintained. The caretakers are very warm and friendly, and responsive. My wife and I enjoyed the salt water pool and tranquility of being on the quieter side of the island. There is a nice little restaurant walking distance, and we had a golf cart to get around.
It was a perfect trip and we can't wait to go back! It felt like home when walking in the door after a long day of exploring the island.
3.0 / 5.0
The property itself is beautiful, owners are very welcoming and we met people who became friends. I was a bit disappointed in the beach. We stayed in Palapa Sam, the view front the front is gorgeous. However, this unit needs a major renovation or a deep, deep cleaning. The bathroom did not appear clean, it had dirt/hair in the corners of the floor and dirt on the door and cabinet, the toilet was dirty and all in all I felt the whole bathroom was dirty. We were there 8 nights and never got our bed linens changed, even with being at the beach, pool, sand and suncreen. I just did not feel the unit was clean.
5.0 / 5.0
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Palapa Sam! Cottage had everything we needed. Access to beach and lovely pool was just what we wanted, no crowded resort with people staking our deck chairs at 7am!
The location right on the beach with evening sunsets was absolutely perfect. We really enjoyed the island and made use of a golf cart to bomb around and explore.
Our hosts were great as were all the locals who made us feel welcome everywhere we went. We will definitely be back!
5.0 / 5.0
I’m reluctantly leaving a review for this little slice of heaven because I want to keep it all to myself. I could’ve sat on that gorgeous beach forever. Room was clean and well appointed. Bed was extremely comfortable. Owners and caretakers were friendly and accommodating. We all hated to leave.
5.0 / 5.0
I loved the view from our villa and how close the beach was. Also had closer seating with palapas to the ocean. Which was very refreshing and relaxing will be back for sure… Nice pool to relax in too.. Juanito and Serviana were awesome and very helpful. Thank you for making this a wonderful stay… Nice restaurant for breakfast just a few minutes away we walked there! I think it was called “Ventaviento Mangle”.. Hope to be back soon Thank you!!!
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful spot, quite side of island, very accessible and accommodating hosts.
A dream to return to!
5.0 / 5.0
Really loved everything about the property. So private. We stayed in Cottage Sam which was amazing - from the bed you can look out to the sea and listen to the gently lapping waves. The pool was also amazing with lots of chairs and floating devices as well as a outdoor living space. A really rare find and would highly recommend Villa Makax
5.0 / 5.0
Highly recommend who want to have a peaceful comfortable vacation by the sea.
5.0 / 5.0
Stayed in Cottage Sam
- Clean, well-appointed, good wi-fi, and amazing view and proximity to the ocean
- Awesome pool
- Owners were great
- Nothing can beat waking up to the ocean view; quiet, private beach; super relaxing
5.0 / 5.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Villa Makax. It was everything we had hoped for - peace, quiet, and ocean views! We stayed in Sam and loved waking up to the gorgeous view of the water. Having the lovely little porch outside the sliding glass doors was a perfect place to start and end our days. We did rent a golf cart for a few days, but were equally as happy on the days without. Walked to several restaurants quite close a time or two for breakfast and dinner. The pool was refreshing, the lounge chairs by the ocean were our favorite spot. The hosts and staff were both friendly and helpful (especially when we dropped our bottle of vodka in our kitchen and they so graciously helped us clean it up). I would strongly recommend staying at Villa Makax, we will return on our next trip to Isla! Thanks you for the perfect spot for our amazing vacation!
5.0 / 5.0
We stayed here for my wife's birthday this year, and everything was wonderful. If you're looking for a more chill and relaxing place to stay, it doesn't get much better than this. The host was magnificent, and we felt so welcome.
5.0 / 5.0
Location Location Location. What a great place on the water. Private and quiet. Just what we wanted. The island is so small so a golf cart will get you where you want and it's beautiful to just drive around and eat and shop at different locations. The owners are so nice and accommodating.
We stayed in the Sam Cottage which is so close to the water. We were just about 15 steps from the sunsets! Loved it!!!!!+
5.0 / 5.0
Everything you need right here for an incredibly peaceful and relaxing getaway! Easy communication with hosts Steve and Lindell - they were fun to interact with and hear stories from their many years on Isla. They gave us great recommendations. Caretakers Juan and Rosario were extremely helpful, responsive, and kind. The cottage itself it simple yet comfortable - A/C was definitely welcome in late June. The pool is amazing. We enjoyed our coffee every morning under the palapa on the sand and listened to the gentle waves lapping the shore. Stand up paddle boards were fun! Walk 2min to Velavento Mangle restaurant just outside the villa for amazing breakfast or tacos for lunch. I just can't say enough good things about this place. I really hope to stay here again someday!
5.0 / 5.0
Vey nice
5.0 / 5.0
It was like laying on the beach in our bed we were so close. The pool is wonderful.
5.0 / 5.0
this was the most relaxing places we've been. Just the sound of the waves, the breezes. Nothing to do but laze about and read! Perfect.
5.0 / 5.0
I can’t say anything bad about this place!!
Unique place to stay. Perfect spot away from the busy Centro area. Peaceful, great view, nice pool. Friendly owners. Let’s not forget about Juan who can help you with many questions, taxi ect.
Golf cart was a must for us because we like to get out and explore.
We would stay here again!
4.0 / 5.0
Let me first state, the property is gorgeous! You are directly on a beach where you can walk either direction to enjoy the beautiful aqua blue water! The grounds are well kept by the caretakers. Pool area is cleaned daily.
The cottages are dated and in need of some maintenance improvements. Cockroaches were found in the kitchen area of one of the cottages Little bugs crawled out of the kitchen sink and around the counter in another cottage. The beds are extremely hard, which some will like but I was not a fan.
The owners were present and were extremely kind and gracious with their time and storytelling. We enjoyed chatting and laughing with them.
We felt completely safe at this property and on the island. We would recommend this property if you are looking for a remote, quiet option off the beaten path. It is great if you have a group as there are multiple cottages available to be rented. We rented all the cottages so we had the property to ourselves, which was great!
Thanks for a memorable experience and for sharing your love of Isla with us!
5.0 / 5.0
Easy, good communication. Absolutely no issues.
5.0 / 5.0
Gorgeous property
5.0 / 5.0
Villa Makax was truly wonderful. You wake up every morning and see turquoise water and palms trees! You can walk right out to the beach or the pool. Very quiet and relaxing environment. AC works great, very nice to come home to after a hot day on the island! We walked over to Zama beach club/restaurant for lunch a couple times and loved it. We had a golf cart for our stay and it was only about a 15 min drive to downtown/Playa Norte. Will be staying here again!
5.0 / 5.0
We just returned from spending 11 nights at Villa Makax in Cottage Sam. From the start, Steve & Lindell were very easy to work with and we stayed in communication as necessary. The property is located in Sac Bao. I would recommend a golf cart for the entire stay. The beach was lovely as was the warm saltwater pool. Rosario and her family were very attentive to our needs and were there we needed them. Every morning we could check out the new turtle nests as they would come up on the beach and lay their eggs each night. Early mornings under the palapa were excellent...so peaceful and serene. We usually stay near Playa Norte but wanted something much quieter with less traffic. This was the spot. After floating for hours in the crystal clear water, we were able to finish the afternoon off in the warm water of the saltwater pool before heading north for dinner. There are several spots close by for good food but we always enjoy heading to the Playa Norte area for dinner. I'd highly recommend staying here again as we will again in the future. Thanks so much Steve, Lindell, and Rosario.
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful!
We had a great time at our 6 night stay and would definitely stay here again! We had some plumbing issues in our bathroom and they were so attentive and quickly resolved our problem.
As an FYI this place is SO serene and delightfully quiet. It is an easy 10 minute (5 dollar cab ride) to anywhere you want to go on the island. This is exactly what we wanted but if you are interested in being right near tons of restaurants and shopping then this may not be the place for you.
Recommendation: bring a citronella candle if you have any hopes of sitting outside in the evening. I threw it in the suitcase at the last second and was SO thankful.
Lastly, we had a lot of issues connecting to the internet and were initially SO frustrated as we have little ones at home. Weren't trying to stream anything, just needed to be able to connect. Eventually we received the tip from another tourist that worked.....so in case you can't get your phone to connect to the wifi even though networks are showing as available then try this. Go to >Settings >Cellular >Wi-Fi assist --> turn to OFF.
Have a great trip!
5.0 / 5.0
Peace in Paradise!
We searched a number of properties on the island prior to our trip and loved the pictures from Villa Makax. Little did we know those pictures, while amazing, just don't do this little slice of paradise justice! We love to be nomads and rented a cart cruised that around the island, explored but always found ourselves migrating back "home" to relax in the pool, sit and watch the waves or lay back in the crazy comfortable bed (seriously WAY better than any hotel or resort bed I've ever slept in). Steve was super helpful with my random questions and they made sure we slooooowed down and catch the island vibe (I can be a little "type A" if not careful). Highly recommend this little secret but we call first dibs! ;-) - Jon
5.0 / 5.0
Wouldn't stay anywhere else
Steve and Lindell are the most outstanding hosts with an amazing property. The property is beautifully maintained by the caretakers who live on site and are always ready to lend a hand with your luggage and whatever else you may need. They'll even pick up your groceries for a minimal fee. The pool is great, the beach is great, the places to rest and relax throughout the property are amazing. We can't think of anywhere we'd rather stay.
4.0 / 5.0
island getaway
beautiful location,, friendly owners and staff. would have liked a seating area in the casita and better sound-proofing but overall was a relaxing vacation spot.
5.0 / 5.0
Can you keep a secret?
OK so this is one life’s dilemmas where honesty is the best policy but that could lead to disappointment down the line……….. if you guys read this and decide that it looks like the perfect place for a wonderfully peaceful break, then we might not be able to get in!!!!,!😩We were staying with Steve and Lindell (and Kooka) at the beginning of December in Cottage Sam. Prior to booking we’d had a few questions (COVID testing, amenities etc) and all were answered very promptly. We had no worries beforehand, knew where we going, how to get there (golf cart) and how to get in. Soon after arrival we met Steve and the caretaker family - Rosario was a lovely young lady and actually helped booked our return COVID test at Villas Makax. We also met Kooka, a new member of the team, who became another highlight of our trip. She was the ‘guard puppy’, playmate and beach walk companion for the duration of our stay and if we could have brought her home, we would have. Any of the cottages would be a great place to stay - Sam and Lee facing the beach looking out towards Cancun in the distance, or Cottage Grande slightly further back but still with a great view through the picture windows. The pool was totally a totally perfect 86f the entire week, and was our usual retreat each afternoon, just before sunset (quite reasonably there’s a no glass rule, but drinking a Sol from my plastic goblet felt kinda fancy! There’s a lovely pergola with comfy seats, a hammock and most importantly a fridge which guests are welcome to fill their goblets from…… restocking was something we did enthusiastically as did other guests. A fully functioning honor system!!!!!. Our cottage was just perfect - not overly grand, but very clean and comfy. Hey, it was a place to sleeep, shower and relax between our golf cart adventures on Isla. Cups of tea and coffee in the morning, a few snacks and beer/wine in the fridge. 😊. The beach is quite deserted with only the occasional person taking a stroll….. and Kooka playfully let’s everyone know it’s actually ours. Full disclosure - there is sea grass in that area of the island but it is safe to swim, the palapa was very welcome and the sand coral beach was very clean. As for location I’d say we were perhaps 15 mins by golf cart from the ferry pier (speed bumps? What speed bumps?). There were little convenience stores 5 mins away, Chedraui Supermarket maybe 2-3 mins further, all on the main road to town. To be continued…….
5.0 / 5.0
Amazing
It was wonderful, quiet and beautiful views
5.0 / 5.0
Remote
This property is perfect if you are budget minded and want to disconnect and get away. It is on the south end away from the bars and noise. We were unable to use our devises to check mail or connect to wifi the entire week. We ended up going to a restaurant to conduct our business.
5.0 / 5.0
Absolute perfection!
We loved our time here more than anywhere we have ever vacationed! We stayed in Casa Grande. It was perfectly appointed and very comfortable. The owners are extremely nice and fun to talk to. The location was perfect and close enough to La Gloria to grab food. It’s also close to Punta Sur and all the beach clubs that are close to that area. The property itself has an amazing salt water pool and an area to swim in and lay by the ocean. We highly recommend staying here!
5.0 / 5.0
Nice private getaway!!
Villa Makax is on the quiet side of the island so if you are looking for a romantic get away this is the place!! Be sure to walk down to Zoetry for breakfast on the water. It was so nice we did it twice! Also within walking distance is Izla hotel and it was a perfect spot for dinner. If you want to venture out to the bars, restaurants, shopping and the gorgeous North beach rent a golf cart for a day! Or take a cab. The only thing I would change about this place is a keurig coffe pot with k cups for an easy way to make my morning coffee before we walked to breakfast. They had a regular pot but I didn’t wanna mess with all of that. Haha. All in all nice place where you can see the water and hear the waves from your bed! Definitely recommend!!
5.0 / 5.0
A little slice of paradise
The pictures do not do it justice on just how beautiful the views are. You can literally lay in bed and look out the sliding glass door and watch the ocean waves crashing, the sail boats going by, and finish the day off watching the sunset. Our stay was absolutely perfect..we have just one complaint- we only booked for a week and didn't want to leave!
5.0 / 5.0
Paradise
We absolutely Loved our stay at this beautiful accommodation! It was a perfect quant bungalow by the sea! The pool was fabulous by day and the ocean was just footsteps away for sunsets! We had a kitchenette perfect for making coffee and keeping all our treats cool. The space was clean and the environment very inviting. Additionally, there is a company called Dr. Xhanet that will come to you to process a rapid covid test which we found extremely convenient (+52-998-233-1054) there is a company that We absolutely LOVED it here are highly recommended Villa Makax!
5.0 / 5.0
Peaceful Setting
We enjoyed a very relaxing stay and hope to return in the future.
Thanks! Max & Sherri
5.0 / 5.0
A must!
Had a fantastic time! We wanted a quiet, relaxing vacation to soak in the beautiful Island views and recharge. Well we accomplished that:)
A wonderful location, very serene with just the sound of the waves..and then a few party boats dock to the left of the villas which adds to the day with just the right amount of people watching..perfect:)
Highly recommend..all the reviews are spot on. Will definitely go back!
5.0 / 5.0
Peaceful Retreat
Our experience at this property was nothing short of magnificent. We were one of two couples on the property for the week. We had ocean views from the pool or the palapa on the beach. We rented a golf cart and had our own island excursions when we chose and enjoyed the property at our leisure. The host, Steve, was attentive when necessary and respectful of our privacy as well. It was just the experience we were looking for.
5.0 / 5.0
If you were looking for a sign to book, THIS IS IT!!!
Truly don’t know where to start, we had the opportunity to travel anywhere we wanted, and when we saw Isla and this listing, it was decided at once. And there were NO REGRETS to be had. I can’t speak highly enough about Steve, Lindell and the property. The photos don’t do it justice... it’s breath-taking. If you were looking for a slice of heaven, local recommendations, and peaceful beach with a killer view of the sunset... go ahead and just hit book now! We are planning our trip back, and we will never settle for less than Villa Makax! Thank you again Steve and Lindell, you two really have made the most grand escape from reality. See you soon!!
5.0 / 5.0
lovely beachfront setting on Isla Mujeres
The property really does look just like its photos. We enjoyed swimming from the beach and lounging in the heated pool. Our room was very comfortable and well-equipped. And we enjoyed exploring funky Isla Mujeres.
4.0 / 5.0
Great views, great owners!
Our stay here was very enjoyable. When we arrived, Juan came out quickly to greet us and help us to our rooms with our bags. The views of the Cancun coastline are beautiful. We watched the sunset here nearly every night of our week long stay. The grounds and the pool are nothing short of amazing. Lassie is also a great addition to the property! We were so sad to say goodbye to her on our final day.
The only complaint I have is that the rooms could use a deep clean. Other than that, everyone was so helpful and friendly, including Steve and Lindell. Thanks for your hospitality during our first stay on the island!
3.0 / 5.0
Villa Makax 2019 stay
Great location on the Caribbean if you want total peace quiet. For us it was too quiet. With that said we have been to island 25 times, knew it was in a quiet area, so for us live and learn. Owner was on it as far as booking, return emails etc. Great job
He did say he would be gone as it’s slow season, and that’s where the ball was dropped. His grounds keeper must have been off, nothing was cleaned up, swept, garbage dumped, dog poop cleaned up, etc...
We have no issues with minimal help, but a basic expectation of a clean property matching the photos.
As far as grounds keepers and property sitters, no one ever checked to see if we were ok? We had to ask for new sheets and towels. Again no huge foul? But my gut is they don’t work that hard or at all when boss is gone.
This would be a great spot for a few couples to stay at the same time, if you do stay a golf carts a must. Real infrequent cabs.
Scale 1-10, give it a 6...Probably higher when owner returns as I am sure he wants his place spotless.
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Isla Mujeres?
The average price for a rental in Isla Mujeres is $275 per night. This rental is $212 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Beachfront palapa cottage with heated pool , sunsets and tropical gardens. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Beachfront palapa cottage with heated pool , sunsets and tropical gardens. Enjoy the water!
Is Beachfront palapa cottage with heated pool , sunsets and tropical gardens pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Beachfront palapa cottage with heated pool , sunsets and tropical gardens?
We found 11 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and smoking allowed.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Isla Mujeres
Explore all rentals in Isla MujeresIsla Mujeres travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama: Adventure and Fun Await
Local Culture
Exploring Miami’s Wynwood District: Street Art, Food, and More
Guides
Fun Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
Local Culture
A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Dining in Orlando, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Oahu and Honolulu
Guides
Top Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Miami: From Beaches to Culture
Guides
The Best Things to Do in Orlando: Attractions, Food, and Family Fun