11/08/2026
🌴 The Chimbo's HISTORY…Tribute to Don Rutilio Briceño Magaña: A Pioneer of Isla Mujeres 🌊
Today we honor the memory and legacy of Don Rutilio Briceño Magaña — a visionary, kind, and hardworking man who transformed the history of tourism on our beautiful Caribbean island.
At the age of 30, Don Rutilio arrived in Isla Mujeres accompanied by his beloved wife Fidelia León, and their children. Three of his sons bear the names of the Three Wise Men: Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar; and his daughters are: Flor, Patricia, Socorro, Leydi, Guadalupe, and Fátima.
A skilled carpenter by trade, he came to these lands to work with wood — yet his vision reached far beyond. He recognized the enormous potential of this "coconut island," the very place that thousands of visitors traveled to reach by boat from Cancún and the Yucatán Peninsula.
He first established his business in the center of Isla Mujeres under the name Las Palmas. Later, he moved to the area of Playa Norte, where that humble beginning evolved into the iconic Palapa Chimbos, and right beside it, Palapa Leydi. For more than 50 years, these beach palapas became among the very first gathering spots where travelers came to savor fresh seafood delicacies and experience the warm hospitality of the island’s people.
Don Rutilio was not only a pioneer of tourism — he was also a great champion of local culture and entertainment, bringing boxing matches, wrestling shows, and bullfights to Isla Mujeres that brought joy to generations.
Today, that legacy of dedication and tireless work lives on stronger than ever. Palapa Chimbos and Palapa Leydi remain family businesses known worldwide, where visitors from every corner of the globe are welcomed with the warmth, kindness, and one-of-a-kind flavor that Don Rutilio planted alongside his family. / In the photo, we see Mr. Rutilio with his Wife doña Fidelia & son Gaspar, his lovely wife, Mrs. Chachis, and little Merly😍😉🙌🏼
Thank you, Don Rutilio, for being such an essential part of the history of Isla Mujeres!
