Thank you, philv, for your great Magens Report!
I have seen recent YouTube videos that don't recommend Magens, and I think those videos miss what makes Magens special. Depending on when you arrive at the beach, you may not be able to enjoy Magens as it is designed to be enjoyed.
1. Natural shade from trees along the shore saves early visitors the expense of an umbrella.
2. There are free picnic tables along the beach that are often under shade trees, but the shade may move as the sun moves.
3. There's a great nature trail that goes straight up the hill behind the beach, and is very popular with those who want to do more than relax on the beach. There are youtube videos of the trail, but imo the ones I've seen don't do it justice.
4. There's also an area with signs suggesting things to do with your children at the beach. Now that cruisecritic makes it easy to share pictures, I'll take pictures soon and post rather than try to find my old ones.
5. You can bring your own food and drink. Many cruisers buy delicious sandwiches at Gourmet Gallery at Havensight, snacks and beverages at Gourmet Gallery and other stores in Havensight or Crown Bay. Some cruisers bring collapsible coolers to transport their refreshments so they can stay cold.
6. If you walk down the beach to the left as you face the water, it should be less crowded.
7. Groups can also rent sheds with shade, tables, and electricity if they want to have amenities for private parties.
Magens is a sandy bottom beach, so not great for snorkeling. There are, however, some fish in the water that you can see just by being in the water. If you want to snorkel, there are beaches that have better snorkeling experience.
It is a challenge to keep Magens clean throughout the day, especially if people don't clean up after themselves. But, areas away from the snack bar are usually cleaner.
Will post pictures in another post.