Avis Private Oceanside Beach Retreat - Unplug and Relax

This was one of those rare VRBO experiences that is truly one of a kind - between the magic of this little palapa village’s unique private location perched on the coastline, to the palapa itself and its utterly epic, breathtaking views (inc whales, daily!) to the private beach with no one but you on it...it felt barefoot luxury even with everything being eco (solar). Casa Cactus is an unplug and rejuvenate kind of place that is equally charming as it is calming. There was decent wifi but you won’t want to touch your phone while there, you’re that relaxed. We cannot wait to come back. Also weather was divine, waves were on the calm side, and no bugs. And the village (20 min walk) has an authentic and great seafood restaurant and decent groceries. There’s a local guy to get fresh catch from also so you’re covered. And the other palapa owners and onsite staff are so sweet and helpful should you need anything.

This is my 3rd time back to this Palapa and love it. Many thanks to Claudia and all of our friends at Chonchos and Chimo. Would most definitely recommend.

This is a great palapa to rent! Claudia was wonderful to work with, super helpful with any questions we had. The palapa has great views for whale watching-the deck and the hammock are the perfect place to relax!

The place is amazing. I thought about not writing a review because in a way I thing this place should be kept a secret. The palapa is beautiful, with spectacular ocean views. We could see the whales passing by all day long. The Palapa belongs to an ecological reserve with more palapas next to 2 beautiful beaches. The place is in the jungle so it is definitely not for everyone. If you are an explorer and true adventurer you can enjoy this place A LOT but if you are not a camping person or you like to have always services and common amenities this might not be for you. Since it is in a very remote location and in the jungle you have to go with an open mind and if something stops working just don't let it get to you, you are still in a beautiful place. During our stay it rained a lot, the ocean was very rough, and did not have a lot of sun but we found it beautiful anyways. We had a few issues with things that weren't properly working at the palapa (the fridge, the wifi, or running water) but the owners where very formal and they looked for a way of solving them. Also the staff at Chonchos helped us fixing what was on their hands. I really appreciate the owners response. Getting in and out of Chonchos can be an adventure since you depend on the ocean. For us it was very rough with huge waves, some of us decided to swim from the boat to the beach and some other guests had to go to Chimo and hike to Chonchos (beautiful hike btw but if you bring a lot of things, then you will need to hire a mula so pack light). The palapa has a lot of utensils to cook and make your own meals. They have solar power that makes the fridge work and lights at night but think of it as a place with no electricity when you plan your trip. Also, bring warm clothes for the night because the place is open to the jungle and it can get chilly. I love this place in the world and will come back on every opportunity that I can. Thank you for sharing it with more people!

Primitive, off the grid, and just what we needed. Thank you for a very restorative stay. We will be back. xo

We rented for 5 days at the end of jan 2019 by taking a cab from vallarta to boca de tomatlan to the water taxi dock with all our luggage and groceries We enjoyed the quiet calm of the palapa with mesmerizing sound of the waves in the background. It's just as it looks in the pictures. Comfy king bed. Saw many whales. The view of the ocean in our palapa was exceptional!! Not many mosquitos, bug spray helps. Palapa is at top of the hill so a bit of a hike up but worth it. Jim the caretaker took our bags up and down for us and helped us get in/out of the water taxi ( no dock). Definitely not for handicapped / limited mobility folks. We want to chimo for lunch at Siceros and also bought fresh fish fillets from him which were delicious! Great fresh seafood of many types in the area and very reasonable! Definitely one for the bucket list. We'll come back again!

Just as it is pictured. It is an amazing place; a tree house above the ocean. This is where I will go in my mind now when I need to escape stress. Especially loved the view and watching birds of all varieties fly among our trees. . Kitchen was well equipped but keep you food put away cause there will be bugs and a house mouse that is just waiting for you to forget. Loved meeting interesting people who were also visiting Los Chonchos

If you are looking to get away from hoards of tourists and really enjoy the unspoiled splendor that the Bay of Banderas has to offer, look no further. Chonchos has the nicest beach you could imagine (2 actually), and odds are you'll be the only ones there! The Cactus palapa is oceanfront, stocked simply but adequately, and phenomenal in absolutely every way. Just sitting on the (huge) deck drinking coffee and watching whales feeding in the morning is worth the price of admission! Whether you are in the kitchen, on the deck, or just laying in bed the views are unparalleled. This was not our 1st time at Chonchos, but there was not a moment when we weren't awestruck by the sheer beauty of the place. This place is incredibly special. There is no better place to get away and unplug from modern life as we know it. As far as the hosts, Andy and Claudia, you can't ask for better communication throughout the whole process. From booking to arranging meals to logistical concerns (there are logistics involved with what to bring and transportation) Andy and Claudia could not have been more helpful, above and beyond. They are definitely there to help you in any way and make your vacation as smooth as possible. Thank you, we'll be back!