ACCESS AND LOCATION
Casa Gratitud is a private, elevated ocean-view villa in the jungle above Yelapa. It is not beachfront and there is no car access. Yelapa is a boat-access village.
HOW DO GUESTS ARRIVE
Take a water taxi or private boat to the pier beside Café Bahia, on the far right of the bay. The hosting family meets coordinated arrivals and help with luggage. From the pier, walk about 10 minutes along sand and cemented rock, then climb private cemented stairs for several minutes to the villa.
ARE THERE STAIRS
Yes. There are stairs: after the beach walk, guests take private jungle stairs up to the villa. Many guests love the walk through the jungle, and taking your time is part of the experience. The hosting family will help with bags. Yelapa’s elevated views require walking up...the climb is how you get those views. There is no step-free route or elevator.
IS THE HOUSE BEACHFRONT
No. The house is elevated above the shore. Guests choose Casa Gratitud for privacy, jungle setting, and ocean views rather than beach-level convenience. However the beach can be reached at the base of the stairs.
IS IT A GOOD FIT FOR CHILDREN
Past families have stayed successfully depending on age and temperament. Very small children who cannot manage stairs safely may not be a good fit. Ask the hosts about your group before booking.
WHAT SHOULD WE BRING
Use soft duffels when possible. Carry passports, medication, and essentials in a daypack. Bring strong phone lights or flashlights for any night beach walk because there are no streetlights along that stretch.
WHEN IS CASA GRATITUD OPEN
The villa is typically open October through April. Whale season is a separate highlight within that window, with licensed bay context typically December 8 through March 23 and strongest activity often in January and February. Sightings are never guaranteed.
CAN WE SEE WHALES WITHOUT A TOUR
Often, yes. Guests may spot whales from the water taxi and from the villa terraces during the season. The hosting family has boats and can arrange whale watching, fishing, snorkling, or swimming trips. Ask for current availability and pricing; excursion rates are confirmed rather than posted here.
HOW DO WE REQUEST DATES
Use the Inquiry page or contact the hosts directly. Share your dates, group size, mobility needs, and expected arrival time so the boat meet and luggage help can be coordinated.