Several of the smaller resorts use Mamitas Beach Club just north of Playa del Carmen

http://www.mamitasbeachclub.com/iindex.htm

It is quite a hike from where you dock but if they have the "day in Playa" tour/transportation available to you as a cruiser than this club will be your paradise.

You might also consider Xel-Ha which is closer to where you park your big boat. They have the lagoon snorkeling but also a beach area out on the ocean. I have been out there and have seen some nice rollers come in. In any case here is their website... www.xel-ha.com

It is all inclusive and food/drinks are buffet style. Not bad but not the greatest. At least you shouldn't get repercusions to make bobbing on the big boat miserable later (sans hangovers)

Thanks MnViking45,

The Mamitas looks perfect for what we are looking for, although looking at the pictures we may be disappointed in the lack of crashing waves. We have been to Tulum before and still have a vision of the beach below with huge waves, white sand and the most beautiful turqouise water we have ever seen--and we have travelled extensively in the Carribean.

If we don't get a better suggestion I think we will check out Mamitas.I am sure we can take a cab there from the dock.

These forums are wonderful--and Trip Advisor is the best!

Thanks so much.

de nada ...

You might also consider the El Paraiso Beach in Tulum. A classic caribbean beach with white powder sand, crystal clear blue water and towering palms. It tends to be less crowded than the Playa del Carmen beaches especially mid-week. The Nuddy beach club at El Paraiso offers palapas, loungers and giant round cushions for rent. The bar has pretty good food and decent drinks. It is our favorite "getaway" beach on the coast. The crashing waves are really going to depend on the weather and wind, but it will be beautiful regardless.

A suggestion on getting a cab after leaving the ship; the line for cabs can sometimes exceed the number of taxi's available. Carry your ID, credit card and Driver's license when you get off the boat. You might just want to rent a car for the day at the facility right there at the docks!

Tony and Cheri

Luna Blur Hotel and Garden

Thanks Luna Blue,

Is El Paraiso Beach north or south of thr Tulum ruins? How far from the ruins? How far from the docks at Calica?

Is the food, drink and ice safe to eat and drink at the Nuddy Bar?

Read many of your other posts--feel like I know much more about Playa---great job!

Hi sassymi2;

The El Paraiso beach is about 1/2 mile south of the Tulum Ruins on the beachfront road. It can be easily walked from the ruins or you can drive there by passing the ruins on Highway 307 (the main north/south road) andturning left on the road marked Boca Paila. The road will dead end at a " T". Turn left and drive a mile or so until you see the sign for the Nuddy Beach Club and El Paraiso Cabanas. There is a parking lot.

The food and drink at the Nuddy is just fine. The truth is that just about anywhere in Playa, Akumal or Tulum is going to have bottled water and safe food. The real dangers down here are primarally too much sun, too much alcohol and too little water. Remember that and you will do fine.

Tony and Cheri

Luna Blue Hotel and Garden

Thanks again Tony and Cheri,

By the way where is your hotel?

Sassymi2

sassymi2;

We are on Calle 26 between 5th ave and 10th ave in the "north beach" section of Playa. If you are ever in the neighborhood, stop in and say Hi.

Tony and Cheri

Luna Blue Hotel and Garden

I just returned from the Tulum area on Sunday and visited El Paraiso beach. I would highly suggest this beach. It was amazing and by far the best part of my trip. We went there twice!