Category Archives: Coco Beach

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Coco Beach

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Beach #7 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Coco Beach

More than 2 million visitors choose the Riviera Maya for their holidays every year, making it the second most popular destination in Quintana Roo not too far behind from Cancun. Once a sleepy fishing village, Playa del Carmen has become a hot destination for tourists looking for beautiful beaches and a cosmopolitan vibe.

Playa del Carmen has many different neighborhoods and each neighborhood has its own beach, from the popular Mamita´s beach to the least known areas in the outskirts of Playa del Carmen; every one of these have special characteristics that make it special and different from the rest.

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Coco Beach: General Information

Coco Beach is near the Colosio subdivision and for years it was an area visited almost exclusively by local families, as there were no touristic services in the area. Time has changed that, as the city sprawls more and more visitors have made Coco Beach their favorite spot.

Access to Coco Beach is easy nowadays, as there are roads and it can also be reached via 5th Avenue. There are also plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars in the area, in case you would like to grab something to eat or drink.

The access to Coco Beach is free, you can bring your towel, food and drinks, and relax on the beach all day. There is also the popular Canibal Royal Beach Club, which has a lounge area as well as food, drinks, showers and restrooms for their customers.

Coco Beach: Getting There
48 North & The Beach in Colosio
Between Flamingo Rd. and  Albatros Rd.
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Walking: If you are walking on 5th avenue head north towards Cancun, once you reach Calle 48 turn right and walk a block to the beach.

Driving: From the Federal Highway 307 take the CTM Avenue exit and turn towards the beach (east).

Coco Beach: Things to do

  • Coco Beach is a perfect place to get in some people watching, sun tanning and relaxation.
  • There are plenty of fishing boats in the area, you can contact one of the fishermen that are always in the area for a tour or go on a fishing trip.
  • The water at Coco beach is very calm, an ideal place to practice water sports like snorkeling, paddle board or kayaking.

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Coco Beach: Recommendations

  • There are no bathrooms in the area, you will need to go to one of the local restaurants or bars in order to use their facilities.
  • If you decide to bring your own drinks and food, also bring a bag for your trash and make sure not to leave anything behind when you leave.
  • Do not forget to bring your biodegradable suntan lotion and insect repellent, as harsh chemicals harm the coral reef and the local fauna.

We hope you enjoy your visit to Coco Beach. It is a nice beach to catch some sun and relax at. Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check all of the other beaches on the list. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

If you have been dreaming about owning a home in Mexico, we are here to help! Our company has over a decade of experience in helping foreigners purchase their dream property in Mexico in a timely and legal manner. It all starts with a dream, browse our beautiful properties and find the ideal property for you, our team of certified realtors are going to be there for you in every step of the process.

If you like the Coco Beach area and are interested in purchasing a vacation home or retirement home, Coco Beach has gorgeous real estate options from beachfront luxury condos to beautiful homes, please feel free to contact any of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives! Browse our beautiful properties; we are sure you will find your dream home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Mamitas Beach

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Beach #21 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Mamitas Beach

Mamitas Beach is the most famous beach in all of Playa del Carmen, it is a place where you go to see and be seen. Mamitas Beach has a modern vibrant atmosphere, and there are lots of beautiful people sunbathing, relaxing and enjoying the music.

Mamitas Beach has the best the Caribbean has to offer, the white fine sand and turquoise blue water, with amazing views of Cozumel located across the sea and the hottest people in Playa walking by.

This is an excellent beach to spend a relaxing day, there is several beach clubs where you can lay on a beach chair and enjoy a tropical drink while catching some sun. Because Mamitas Beach is so popular it can be somewhat crowded, especially on weekends. This is not a peaceful, tranquil beach, this is a happen place to go and have fun.

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Mamitas Beach: Getting there

Getting to Mamitas beach is quite easy once you are in Playa del Carmen, it is located on street 28th and the beach.

If you are coming from the Cancun International Airport, take the Federal 307 Highway towards Playa del Carmen. Once in Playa, take the Calle 34 exit and turn right towards the beach.

Getting a parking space near Mamitas can be tricky, if you are arriving early you might be lucky and find a parking spot near the beach; otherwise try parking a few blocks from the beach.

Mamitas Beach: Things to do

Mamitas might sound like a party place, and indeed it is a really cool place to spend time surrounded by young, attractive people and enjoy the excellent service provided by the local beach clubs.

But there is more to do than party at Mamitas, while the guest are sleeping in and recovering from the previous day of parting; Mamitas it is an ideal spot for a morning walk, swimming, meditation or even some yoga. After that, stop by Kool, one of the beach clubs on Mamitas and enjoy their all you can eat breakfast buffet for only 130 pesos (about 9 USD).

The beach clubs in the area have a wide array of entertainment and the prices are quite reasonable, about 2 USD for a beer. If you open a tab for food and drinks, you might get to use one of their lounge chairs and enjoy the views, live music and entertainment.

Mamitas Beach: Things to do on a budget

If you are on a budget, there are plenty of small restaurants on 28th street, our staffs favorites are:

La Tavola dello Squalo

This is a local place, specializing in burgers. It is a good cheap option to have a filling meal for a lower price, the flavor and quality of their ingredients is quite good and you can also get the burgers to go and enjoy them on the beach!

Calle 28 between 1st Ave. & Cozumel Ave.

Mamitas Beach, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

(984) 803-1111

El Burro Playero

This is a very popular local chain, offerings Burritos stuffed with meat, chicken and seafood. There is also vegetarian options and soft drinks, it is a good option to buy and take for a picnic at the beach!

Mamitas Beach

Calle 28 & Mar Caribe (Mamitas Beach)

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

BRO Chetas

This is a small restaurant specialized in Kebabs, the prices are quite reasonable and the kebabs are quite good. Another fast and cheap option to recharge your tank before going back to the beach for the day!

Calle 28 between 1st Ave and Mamitas Beach

ALDEA THAI hotel

(984) 803-2566

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Mamitas Beach: Recommendations

  • If you would like to spend the day at a beach club, remember that everything is more crowded and expensive during high season. Make sure to be there early to get a good lounge chair!
  • If you visit Kool Beach Club and enjoy their delicious breakfast, you can stay and enjoy the premises free of charge.
  • If you are on a budget, all beaches are public so bring a blanket, food and drinks and enjoy.
  • If you live in the area, ask if they have special prices for locals. Most places will offer a local discount on drinks, food and services, especially during the low season.

Learn about the different beaches throughout the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday.

If you are looking for the perfect beach, you can follow our blog and learn about other local popular spots. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is a local American-Owned company that specializes in helping foreigners become homeowners in Playa del Carmen. We have the credentials and expertise and we are here to help you find your dream home in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Soliman Bay

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Beach #22 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Soliman Bay

Soliman Bay is one of the few places in the Riviera Maya where you get a sense of relaxation, solitude and privacy. If you visit Soliman Bay, you will find that there are no big hotels or crowds and the coast is mostly undeveloped, providing a break from many other popular destinations in the Riviera Maya.

This Bay has calm seas year around, thanks to the reef that blocks the big waves and undercurrents, making it ideal for families and water sports lovers. The beach is sandy, with a few rocks here and there; wearing water shoes is recommended to avoid injuries or cuts on your feet.

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Soliman Bay: Getting there

This secluded beach beauty is located in the heart of Riviera Maya, but it offers a private, secluded feel for its visitors.

If you are traveling from Cancun, take the Federal Road 307 southbound and drive 65 miles (about an hour and fifteen minutes), you will pass Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras and Akumal. Soliman Bay is 9 miles south of Akumal (approximately 20 minutes), so keep your eyes open for the entrance. You can look for signs for the Oscar y Lalo restaurant, on the right hand side of the road and you reach Tulum you have gone too far.

Soliman Bay: Things to do

Keep in mind that Soliman Bay is a small semi-private gated community, there are a few villas and the owners value their privacy. The easiest way to access the beach at Soliman Bay is to visit one of their popular restaurants such as Chamico’s or the Sahara Cafe and enjoy a cold drink and let their professional staff pamper you.

The other way to experience this beautiful place is to stay in one of the hotels or vacation rentals and enjoy this unspoiled piece of paradise! Some of the things you can do during your stay at Soliman Bay is sunbathing, relaxing and enjoy a tropical drink. You could also go for a walk on the beach, kayak in the bay or go snorkel on the reef.

Remember that Soliman Bay is located between Akumal and Tulum, so if you want a little bit more action you could book a day tour or visit one of the many local attractions!

Soliman Bay: Recommendations

  • There is no way to access Soliman Bay beach for free, you have to be a guest or visit one of the local restaurants.
  • Most of the hotels with restaurant will let you enjoy a meal there, but just to be on the safe side make a reservation ahead of time.
  • Do not forget to bring your water shoes and snorkeling gear!
  • There is not a lot of tourism in the area so it is wise to bring cash with you; the closest ATM’s are in Tulum or Akumal.

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Learn about the different beaches throughout the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday.

Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything regarding the Riviera Maya. We have the credentials and expertise and we are here to help you find your dream home in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Luna Maya Beach

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Beach #24 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Luna Maya Luna Maya Beach has a special charm if you are visiting Tulum, once that you get into the windy road into the hotel area; the first thing you will see will be hotels and restaurants. The jungle covers the roadside and there is not a lot to see, and then after a small curve on the road you will see it: Luna Maya Beach welcoming you into Tulum! photo Luna Maya 1_zps7o6dpoxb.jpg Luna Maya is a small bay, located beside Zamas Hotel & Restaurant, actually you will notice that Zamas Restaurant and palapa with their cool palapa and colorful tables and chairs; inviting the tourist to take a pause and enjoy a cold drink and the magnificent view. Luna Maya Beach: Getting there If you are coming from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, take Highway 307 southwards towards Tulum. When you reach Tulum itself, you get to the first big intersection with traffic lights and the San Francisco de Asis Super Market, here you take a left turn towards the Tulum beach hotel zone (the street sign says Boca Paila). At the end of this road, follow the road to your right, this is the Tulum coastal road and you will pass lots of small hotels and cabañas until you reach a small bay. It will be located between Zamas hotel and the security checkpoint, you cannot miss it!

Luna Maya Beach: Things to do Luna Maya is a public beach, so you can get your gear and enjoy a relaxing day! It is also surrounded by rocks, so there is not a lot of people walking by. If you don’t feel like taking a lot of things with you, you can also visit the Zamas Restaurant; which offers a nice mix of simple Mexican dishes and cold drinks and cocktails. The rocky sides of the beach also seem to attract some fishing aficionados, you might see them early in the morning or in the late afternoons; standing on the rocks hoping to catch dinner.

Luna Maya Beach: Recommendations If possible try to bring some water shoes, the rocks are quite sharp and this will protect your feet from cuts and scratches. These shoes can be bought in any local supermarket or sports shop in the Riviera Maya. Even though most of the beaches in the Riviera Maya have really calm waters, Tulum has wavy beaches with strong drifts. Make sure to check the flags if there is any or stay in shallow waters if you are not a very good swimmer, there are no lifeguards in Tulum. Tulum has a big natural reserve with jungle and mangroves, that means there is going to be lots of mosquitoes; bringing a biodegradable insect repellent is a must. Have Off! or some other DDT based cream or spray to keep insects at bay: after the rainy season there can be gnats and other insects that don’t seem bothered by citronella. photo Luna Maya 2_zpsz43hdyfl.jpg Learn about the different beaches in the Riviera Maya, and count down with us every Friday at the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya. Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything regarding the Riviera Maya, we are here to help people get their dream home in paradise. If you are considering purchasing a home in the Riviera Maya or some other areas of Mexico, feel free to browse our website or contact our certified Real Estate Agents. We have the credentials and expertise to take you from daydreaming to real life! And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate… We make it happen!

Explore the Village of Xcalak!

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Xcalak is one of the most pristine and remote corners of the Mexican Caribbean, as it is nearly four hours from Cancun, almost on the border with Belize. Besides the beauty of the beach and the colors of the ocean, which will take your breath away, Xcalak is an ideal place for diving, as it is close to both the Mesoamerican reef and the Biosphere Reserve of Banco Chinchorro (an hour and a half by boat from Xcalak).

The village of Xcalak is a great lodging choice if you want to spend some time to snorkel or dive the reefs of Banco Chinchorro; a 43 miles long atoll consisting of three keys. This is one of the best preserved Biosphere Reserve and submarine complex in Mexico, offering an abundance of reef life and more than a dozen shipwrecks.

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The population of Xcalak is below the 400 mark, so it is a small town in every sense of the word. However, the area is developing, and in recent years there have been an increased number of restaurants and tourism services available.

Sure, resting on the beach might seem like the perfect plan for your holidays, sipping on some ice cold drinks and indulging in a bowl of freshly made guacamole or ceviche. But if your mindset changes to a more active mode, there are plenty of things to do in Xcalak: taking a bird watching tour, visit San Pedro in Belize, or go fishing; and of course, visit Banco Chinchorro.

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How to Get There:

From Chetumal:

Take the federal highway 307 to Mahahual and take the Xcalak deviation (a little before reaching a town called Limones). The road is paved and marked up with a sign that reads Xcalak; the road is in good condition with a few potholes. It is located approximately 125 miles from Chetumal.

From Cancun:

From the Cancun International Airport, head south on Highway 307. Depending on your speed and how many stops you make, it will take you roughly 4-1/2 to 5 hours. Once you pass the town of Limones, take a left at the “Cafetal” intersection. There are several signs indicating the turn for both Mahahual and Xcalak. After driving about 50 kilometers on the newly paved road, take a right towards Xcalak.

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We hope you enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Xcalak. If you enjoyed the area and would like to purchase a property, feel free to contact one of our Top Buyer’s Representatives. They have helped many clients through the process of becoming homeowners in Mexico.

And remember, here at TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE…

We make it happen!

A romantic getaway to Holbox Island!

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A romantic getaway to Holbox Island: After all the Christmas festivities in Mexico, many people can feel pretty drained. Let me tell you, between kids activity’s, parties and having family in town, one could need a vacation from their vacation.

Living in the Mayan Riviera gives us a wide variety of romantic little known spots to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and our daily responsibilities: Tulum, Bacalar and Holbox, just to mention some!

We had been in Holbox many times, it’s a perfect relaxing, romance getaway!

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About Holbox:

Holbox is a small island located in the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Famous for being a whale shark sanctuary, this island is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a tranquil setting to enjoy the beach.

Holbox is 26 miles long and about 1 mile wide, and it offers pristine beaches with white coral sand. The island is located within the Yum Balam Natural Reserve, as a result, the marine life of the island is diverse and abundant: from whale sharks, dolphins, lobsters as well as octopus, stingrays and sea turtles, just to name a few.

How to Get There:

To get to Holbox, first you need to get to the town of Chiquila. You can drive which will take about two hours from Cancun or you can take a 20 minute plane ride. Also, there is a new toll road from Playa del Carmen, but there is also public transportation available.

Once you reach the town of Chiquila, you need to find a safe parking spot for your car and then take a boat or ferry to Isla Holbox. A big boat will charge around 40 pesos per person for a 25 minutes trip to the island, if they are not available you can hire a local fisherman and pay about 250 pesos per boat (for 6 people and their bags).

Attractions:

Its shallow, turquoise waters allow people of all ages and abilities to swim at ease; ideal for snorkeling or paddle boarding. Holbox is also the ideal place to learn or practice kitesurfing, as there is always a strong breeze.

During the months of June to September, Holbox is host to the largest congregation of whale sharks: the largest known fish. These majestic creatures, which can grow up to 15 meters, come every year to feed on plankton. Because of its peaceful nature, you can swim alongside these gentle giants and observe them in their natural habitat. Swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience.

Sport fishing and fly fishing is a popular activity, the ocean is full of fish such as: bonefish, barracuda, snapper, pompano and mackerel, among others. Bird watching is another popular activity, where you will be able to see: flamingos, white and brown pelicans, cormorants, reddish egrets, roseate spoonbills and herons.

There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Holbox like horseback riding, diving, kayaking through the mangroves, kitesurf, or swim in Yalahau.

Romantic Getaways:

Here are two romantic getaway packages I found in Holbox:

Sweet Escape in Hotel Casa Las Tortugas

holboxcasalastortugas.com

Whether you are celebrating a wedding anniversary, a special birthday or an engagement, this Sweet Escape package is a perfect way to say ‘I love you’. This romantic retreat includes a surprise candle-lit dinner on the beach and some of their best spa treatments.

This Package includes:

  • Three nights in a Standard room
  • Half-board for two people (breakfast and lunch)
  • Spa package for two people (Honeymoon package)
  • Romantic dinner on the beach for two people

For only $1175 USD*

*Room upgrade on request.

*Transfer on request.

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Romantic Escape at Casa Sandra

casasandra.com

Casa Sandra is a very romantic and intimate home, conceived with art, music and coziness in mind, where every detail is created with love. This boutique hotel provides personalized service and a friendly atmosphere, allowing loved ones can connect more deeply.

This package includes:

  • Three nights’ accommodation with upgrades
  • Daily American breakfast (including one room service per stay)
  • Romantic amenities in your room
  • One hour massage per guest
  • Romantic dinner on the beach with personalized service, a bottle of wine and a special menu
  • Evening cocktails and seasonal fruit platter, one per stay
  • One hour daily golf cart rental
  • Early check-in and late check-out
  • Ground transfer and private plane, one-way each

For Only $2645 USD*

*10% Discount for locals with State issued ID

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If you are looking for an ideal romantic getaway, do not search any further than Holbox! Holbox is the ideal destination for of those looking to rekindle the spark or just recharge. Let the professionals pamper you and your significant other and enjoy everything Holbox has to offer.

Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything Riviera Maya, we thrive to offer our readers the best possible information. We have also helped thousands of clients find their dream home in Mexico. Live the life, Live in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!