Tour info

[mickig]

Can anyone tell me if there are beaches close to the ports in Ocho Rios, Costa Maya and San Blas Island? :confused: Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Mickig

[mrsfuzzmo]

Not too much in the way of beaches "close by" meaning within walking distance in Ocho Rios (at least nothing I'd like to go to). Take an excursion.

 

San Blas is a cluster of small islands (think Gilligans and smaller). There are many within a small area. We took a dugout canoe from one to another. They are basically little islands of beaches, but nothing to write home about. We snorkeled there, then went to the markets to buy their famous hand stitched artwork. I LOVED San Blas islands and would love to go back some day. Which ship are you going on that stops there? I haven't seen it on many itineraries lately. By the way, one of the islands that had a market on it had a "public" restroom that was a shack out over the water and you went to the bathroom and it basicall fell into the water for all to see. I don't know if it has changed in the past 10 years since I was there, but it was quite a remote, wonderful experience. The coolest part was when the ship was coming into anchor, all these dugout canoes came out to meet us with families in them. They all yelled "Money, Money, Money" and people were advised to go to the casino and buy a roll of quarters to drop off the side of the ship into the waiting upturned umbrellas, boats and buckets. If you threw one into the water, boys would dive down very deep to catch it! It was absolutely fantastic. This was a game for them. They were brightly clothed with beautiful colorful umbrellas. It was something to see. Take candy and quarters onto the islands with you to give the kids for photos. The natives are beautiful people with extraordinary outfits. I've gotten the most beautiful photos of the people. If you go with an open mind, you'll love it! It is remote!

 

Costa Maya is one long beach. Many to choose from. I cannot recommend one in particular. Maybe someone else can help.

 

I am so jealous of you getting to go to San Blas!

 

Maureen

[mickig]

but my name is Maureen too...how funny! We are taking the MSC Lirica...it stops in Costa Maya,Panama Canal, Puerto Limon,San Blas Island,Cartagena(sp) and Ocho Rios. It leaves from Ft.Lauderdale and we got a great deal. Thanks for the great info. Sans Blas Island sounds wonderful:o !

Mickig(Maureen)

[cali-croozer]

There's a beach right at the port at Costa Maya (to the right...you have to walk through the shopping complex to get there). We hung out there in the morning, went back to the ship to shower/change and eat lunch, and then explored the shopping area in the afternoon. In the shopping area, there's a huge pool with a swim up bar. Some people hang out there all day. If you are looking to get away from the port, some people take a taxi to the little fishing town, not far from port (there's a beach there too). Unsure of the name........check the Costa Maya board.

[Boo's Mom]

Mickig ~

 

There are several resorts near Ocho Rios....that will sell you an all inclusive day pass.

 

For example: http://www.beaches.com

 

Check out Beaches Boscobel. It is 10 miles east of Ocho Rios. $85. per adult....and $45. per child. Passes are purchased upon arrival. The hours are: 10:00am - 6:00pm

 

The website will not mention a day pass. This information is obtained by contacting the resort directly.

 

This resort all inclusive...includes: meals, snacks, unlimited premium drinks, tips, petting zoo, pool, beach, waterslides, watersports, etc....

[mickig]

Thanks for all the great info.

Mickig