Family with teen ... quiet beach ... snorkeling ... clean, safe & basic amenities

[Dogstar]

Family with 13-yo teen ... quiet beach ... snorkeling ... clean, safe & basic amenities. We do not need a resort, all-inclusive amenities, swimming pools, water toys, excursions, or any of the usual add-ons that drain $$$ from our pockets. We carry our own snorkeling gear so rentals are not required. Lounge chairs & umbrellas, if available, are a bonus but sand & palm trees work just fine, too.

 

For us this is why we cruise, to briefly experience various destinations & cultures, cost-effectively & safely. And to dry/thaw out from the North We(s)t Coast winters!

 

Some of our fondest shore days are from venturing out on our own away from the typical cruise ship pax taxi/shuttle/tour "drop points" to the less-frequented "locals" hideways, beaches & the like for mere pennies of what the typical Tourist Tours cost. Consider the "far side" of a Caribbean island soaking in the sun at a near-deserted bay, sampling some local fare at the community snack hut while intermingling with the few local families out enjoying their day at the beach. Or dining like royalty at a gathering of Les Roulottes in French Polynesia. Aaahhh, memories.

 

So many choices, so little time in Cozumel. As usual I'm reading through printed travel guide books, message boards, etc. gathering ideas in advance of our arrival. Thoughts? Suggestions? Hints?

 

Thank you. Dogstar.

[Dogstar]

So many choices, so little time in ...

 

typo correction = Costa Maya :p

[tandemcruzr]

dogstar --

 

If you do go to Cozumel, you can actually go to the 'other side' of the island -- the East Side. There are beaches and spectacular views. Water can be rough, but the breaking waves and blow holes are to be seen. No snorkeling -- too rough.

 

However, at the south end of the island, Punta Sur National Park offers a lighthouse and a low traffic beach with off shore snorkeling.

 

Note, there is no electricity on the East Side, but there are restaurants which offer food and beverages using propane and/or generators.

 

Best food we've found is at Chen Rio. Best views are from the lighthouse at Punta Sur and Coconuts which the highest point along the coast.

 

Now in Costa Maya (not an island) go through the manufactured port, catch a cab to 'town' for $3 pp going and $2 pp coming back. The town is the village of Majuhual which offers sandy beaches, lots of restaurants, calm water and a reef off shore. Very relaxing day.

[SeaPA1]

I'd just exit the complex at the base of the pier & catch a cab to the "town" of Majahual ($3 pp going, $2 pp coming back, readily available for either direction).

 

They'll drop you off at the beginning of the town, a short block from the beach. Go there & stroll the "malecon" (sidewalk that runs along the water, beach on one side & restaurants/shops on the other). Just keep going until you find a place that fits your liking. If you want a lesser crowd, walk further as most cruisehip passengers get tired of walking & stop at the first places they come to. If you go closer to the end, less make it that far; it's maybe a 20 minute or so stroll at a leisurely pace.

 

The bars/restaurants/shops have lounge chairs, tables, etc. set up on the beach area across from their locale, and provide food/beverage service to that area. They expect you to buy from them if you use their chairs. Cost is pretty inexpensive (i.e. bucket of beer is $10, compared to double that or more at most cruise stop areas).