Steal Away To Mexico’s Dreamy Shell-Shaped House

Kristen Amiet is a previous AWOL editor, bona fide travel…

Spongebob Squarepants may live in a pineapple under the sea but, for less than a hundred bucks a night, you and a few mates could live like chic sea snails off the coast of Cancun.

Located on the dreamy Isla Mujeres in Mexico, the Shell House one of the most recognisable properties in the world. The home is comprised of a main house and a smaller, sea snail-shaped granny flat, each with king-sized beds and full bathrooms. There’s also an additional single bed in the “baby shell”.

But the theme isn’t only reserved for the façade – inside, the décor and design all have a dreamy under-the-sea aesthetic, while creature comforts like a pool, kitchenette, air conditioning and Wi-Fi are all part of the package.

Best of all, owners Raquel and Eduardo Ocampo (who designed and built the incredible property) live right next door, meaning guests are privy to an endless supply of local advice and hospitality. The Shell House is just a 15-minute golf-buggy ride from the nearest beach, while the El Garrafon snorkel park is equally close.

Prior to 2015, the property was only available for hire for one-off events, but is now easily bookable through Airbnb.

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Weekly rental rates start at $1900 ($1500USD) between July and December 15, and $2200 ($1750USD) from December 16 to June 14 – meaning you and three mates could occupy the whole space for a measly $65 per night. There’s also a special price if you’d prefer to only rent the main house.