By Last Updated on September 9, 2022
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Two giant agave plants decorate the front entrance to Casa Agave–iconic Mexico.
Kristen, the friendly owner waved hello as I stepped out of the car. She was wearing a huge smile and a dress that matched the beautiful ocean just a block away. My first thought was “she sure looks like someone out of a ‘Living the Caribbean Dream’ catalogue.”
About Puerto Morelos
Welcome to Puerto Morelos–a relaxed beachside town just a 20-minute drive south of Cancun International Airport. The locals know it’s a hidden gem on the Yucatan Peninsula. But don’t be fooled, as it’s close to everything. Located halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos is a little slice of relaxed paradise without the thousands of tourists.
Located right on the ocean, this three-block deep town is nestled on a spit of land separated from the mainland by a huge lagoon mangrove area. There’s only one road in and out to the highway. It’s a pleasant 20-minute walk along wide flat sidewalks with towering palms and mangroves lining the street if you’re dropped off by a local shuttle. Driving, it’s only a couple of minutes’ straight into town square.
Casa Agave: A Vacation Rental in Puerto Morelos
Casa Agave was fully renovated in 2020. For me, walking in was love at first sight. A giant blue agave, the kind used to make the finest tequila, decorated the courtyard above the pool.
Somehow it seemed to radiate peace and made me want to pull up a lounger and just relax. This is where I spent most of my time during the stay.
The perfect way to start my day was getting fresh tropical fruit platters for breakfast while I reclined in the lounge chair. A sunset charcuterie board with a glass of wine by the pool was the perfect way to end it.
The Penthouse
I was so fortunate to get to stay in Casa Agave’s one bedroom penthouse. As I walked through the sliding door it felt like home. That is something Kristen prides herself on, saying “I try to read my guests. If they want to be social, great, if they want a relaxing quiet vacation that’s great too.” Which is why this is such a wonderful place to stay.
I really appreciated the small touches and attention to detail at this lovely rental. Like lavender and chamomile soap to enhance the relaxing atmosphere. Having access to a wine opener, cutting board, and bread knife for some baguette and brie instead of eating out or cooking was a welcome touch. And of course, I loved the casa’s gorgeous stained-glass window.
A large TV with Netflix pulls out from the wall to angle the way you want for perfect viewing while sinking into a large comfortable white lounger. Air conditioning in each room is well appreciated. It’s the little touches that make your stay feel like a home vs a hotel. It’s also why I found it so hard to leave.
The Magical Courtyard
Casa Agave’s courtyard was my favorite area of the house. Breakfast in the morning was lovely, and evening dining here was magical.
Citronella candles top all tables, even smaller ones near the poolside lounges. There’s always a nice breeze, perfectly welcome in the Mexican night, and it’s also helpful in keeping mosquitoes at bay.
Getting Around Puerto Morelos
I love walking because it allows a chance to see everything. And Puerto Morelos is one easy walkable town. It’s laid out in a three-block grid back from the beach, making it almost impossible to get lost.
Casa Agave is on the second block from the beach and three blocks north of the town square. That makes it only a five-minute walk to the beach and a ten-minute leisurely stroll into town. On these wide, clean streets full of colorful houses, the local’s wave to visitors with a cheery smile and a welcoming Buenos dias.
You’ll also note lots of locals ride bikes. It’s the perfect way to get around here. Puerto Morelos Green Bikes is an excellent, highly recommended company with warm personalized service. They’ll deliver a bike right to Casa Agave and pick it up in a few days or weeks, whenever you’re finished.
If you prefer something quicker or have mobility issues, there’s an abundance of taxis available. Another option is to use local transport vans known as Collectivos. It’s an inexpensive way to get around town for only 10 pesos ($0.50 USD). Just flag one down and hop in. They all end up in town square so you can choose to ride one until it completes its route and get a tour of the entire town for fifty cents. You just can’t beat that!
Casa Agave Amenities
If you don’t feel like eating out and want to cook in Casa Agave’s fully-stocked penthouse kitchen, there’s an excellent supermarket in the heart of town. Chedraui has the best bakery selection I’ve seen in years.
It’s comprised of an assortment of sourdoughs, seeded breads, rye and whole wheat loaves, plus all your sweet treats. There’s also an abundant fruit and vegetable section and everything else you need or want during your stay can be found here.
Puerto Morelos is a beach and nature lovers’ town and as such, my penthouse included everything I’d need for spending time at the beach or exploring nature’s beautiful bounty. I had insect spray, 50+ sunscreen, and even an umbrella for rainy days. Kristen will even happily lend you a sun-smart beach hat if you forget to pack yours.
Where to Eat in Puerto Morelos
The locals brag that Puerto Morelos is a foodie destination with people coming from Cancun and Playa del Carmen to dine here. I totally agree as the restaurants here are fantastic.
You can dine right on the beach in any number of seafood restaurants in true dig-your-toes-in-the-sand style. My favorite is La Sirena (the Mermaid). Located right in town square, it’s easy to find, and the food is incredible. I opted for the farmer’s platter thinking it would be a nice light lunch and ended needing a doggy bag.
What I love most about Puerto Morelos town are its ice cream shops. After swimming and getting salty and warm at the beach, there’s nothing better than a refreshing ice-cream. There’s a great heladeria (ice-cream shop) right next to the church opposite town square, and you’ll find a number of others in town as well.
I was thrilled to discover a vegan gelato place with amazing flavors. I highly recommend the passion fruit and the coconut. They were delicious.
Casa Agave was the perfect location for my stay. Close enough to walk everywhere yet a few blocks from town to provide a peaceful quiet night’s sleep. I slept so incredibly well in the comfy queen-sized bed during my visit, and even kept the windows and doors open to enjoy the wonderful sea breezes.
But what really won my heart was that it seemed every time I turned the corner heading to the beach, an impressive wingspan of large frigate birds hovered in the air above my head. These lovely creatures gracefully ride thermal currents, gliding over the ocean looking for fish. It really cemented that oceanside relaxed beach vibe for me.
I so loved my stay here at Casa Agave, and you will too. I promise!
Click here to book your stay at Case Agave
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