Real-life family travel tips, cruise hacks, and points and miles guides from Sheila Hayes — helping families travel smarter, not harder, one trip at a time.
How to Get to the Black Sand Beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico (Playa Negra) If you’re looking for one of the most unique beaches in Puerto Rico, Playa Negra in Vieques belongs at the top of your list. This isn’t a “park-and-walk” kind of beach—but that’s exactly why it still feels wild and untouched. When we decided to go, I had no idea how much of an adventure it would actually be. This isn’t the kind of beach where you pull into a paved lot, grab your towel, and walk 30 seconds to the water. It requires effort — and honestly, that’s what makes it unforgettable. The first glimpse of the black sand against the turquoise water stopped us in our tracks. It didn’t feel touristy. It felt earned. Below is the exact, step-by-step route we used to get there, plus tips so you don’t miss the trail (or ruin your shoes). Ready? Let’s go! Step 1: Fly to San Juan, Puerto Rico Start by booking a flight into San Juan (SJU). This is the easiest jumping-off point for getting ...
🏞️ La Casa Del Mundo: A Family Stay in Lake Atitlán’s Dreamiest Cliffside Hotel
🏞️ La Casa Del Mundo: A Family Stay in Lake Atitlán’s Dreamiest Cliffside Hotel
When you picture a hotel perched on the edge of a volcanic lake, surrounded by mountains and Mayan villages, with hammocks swaying over turquoise waters—La Casa Del Mundo is exactly that dream brought to life.
This family-run eco-hotel in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala isn’t the easiest place to reach, but that’s part of the magic. Getting here means hopping on a lancha (water taxi), winding through the lake, and watching as the cliffside property slowly reveals itself. And once you arrive? Unforgettable.
✨ Why Stay at La Casa Del Mundo?
La Casa Del Mundo isn’t your typical hotel—it’s an experience. Built into the cliffs above Lake Atitlán, every room offers jaw-dropping views of the water and volcanoes.
Highlights include:
🌅 Views from every corner: Balconies, terraces, and hammocks are tucked all over the property.
🛶 Direct lake access: Jump right into the lake or kayak with the hotel’s gear.
🍴 Family-style dinners: Guests gather for a nightly meal that feels like a community feast.
🌺 Gardens & terraces: Perfect for quiet mornings with coffee (while kids explore safely).
🧳 Family Travel Tips
Traveling with kids to La Casa Del Mundo is surprisingly doable—even though it’s remote:
Pack light: You’ll carry bags down stone steps, so backpacks work best.
Water taxi access: Boats run regularly from Panajachel and San Marcos. Budget about $5–$10 per person.
Meals on-site: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, so you don’t have to boat out for food.
Wifi warning: Yes, there’s Wi-Fi—but this is more of a disconnect and relax destination.
🚤 Getting There
The adventure starts from Panajachel, the main hub on Lake Atitlán. From here, you’ll catch a lancha water taxi. The ride takes about 20 minutes, winding past villages and volcanoes.
Pro tip: Sit on the left side of the boat for the best views as you approach La Casa Del Mundo.
👨👩👦 Is It Worth It for Families?
Absolutely. While it feels secluded, kids love the chance to swim in the lake, explore winding pathways, and watch sunsets you’ll talk about for years. Parents love that it’s budget-friendly for what feels like a luxury eco-retreat.
It’s one of those rare places where you can slow down together as a family—no theme parks, no crowds, just Guatemala’s natural beauty.
🌍 Final Thoughts
La Casa Del Mundo is more than a hotel—it’s a reminder of why we travel: to connect with nature, each other, and the world beyond our routines.
If you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, this cliffside escape deserves a spot on your itinerary.
📍 La Casa Del Mundo, Lake Atitlán
💡 Bring: swimsuits, a good book, and your sense of adventure
