Head for the Beach . . .
Beaches on the southwest end of the island: As you head south of the town of San Miguel you'll
come upon a number of beaches, each has its own attraction and personality. A few of the favorites:
CORONA: One of the smaller beach areas, but a great place to start easing into life at the beach! You can do a bit of snorkeling here and there usually is a raft anchored not far off-shore.
CHANKANAAB: This is a botanical garden, with snorkeling and nice beach area. There is a fee to enter the grounds. You can spend a pleasant morning or afternoon exploring the grounds, snorkeling, sunning, etc. You can grab a bite to eat or something to drink at the restaurant. Swimming with the dolphins is now available!
PLAYA MIA: Sun, sand and creatures. There is plenty of sand, beach chairs, bar and restaurant. There are bathrooms and showers, too. If you're in the mood for a ride along the beach, horses are available here. Also, look for the monkeys, alligators, and iguanas; no, they don't roam free! Entry fee.
PLAYA SAN FRANCISCO: one of the major beach areas, restaurant, glass bottom boats, jet skis, bathrooms, showers, parasailing . . .
PLAYA AZUL Located North of the city, quiet with a restaurant/bar.
MR. SANCHOS BEACH CLUB New club with swimming pool, showers, bar/restaurant and lots of sand.
NACHI COCOM: Beach club with pool, jacuzzi, restaurant, shops, water sports.
PLAYA PALANCAR: Lots of sand, not too many people. Quieter than some of the other beach areas . . . and no motorized water toys (jet skis, etc.). A very pretty area. Restaurant/bar. One of our FAVORITE beach areas.
The East Coast: This side of the island is undeveloped and you can fill a day or two exploring the beaches, navigating some interesting rocky areas and playing in the waves. There are several beach restaurants that serve cold drinks and tasty food. There is no electricity on this side of the Island, so the clubs close before dark.
Punta Sur Lighthouse: Located at the southern end of the island. Schedule your visit just right and you can climb to the lighthouse just as the sun is setting, and enjoy a unforgettable view of the Caribbean. The road is now gated, and there is an entrance fee to go to the lighthouse. You can visit the ruin of a Mayan lighthouse, learn about the ecology of the area at the visitors center and possibly spot croccodiles in the lagoon.
Coconuts is located cliff-side at the mid-point of the East coast. The spectacular setting offers wonderful views, cold drinks and a light menu.
