The ambiance can change daily depending on the crowd. Local business people with their families come on weekends. It is very busy when cruise ships are in, and more quiet with vacationers at other times. The beach is lined with "Beach Clubs" with names as in Saint Tropez, Bikini Beach, KaKao Beach, Coco Beach, Waikiki... all have restaurants, lounge chairs and umbrellas, water sports concessions, and small shops that sell crafts and beachwear.

Always a breeze, a few rolling waves, and best of all a continuous parade of people. There is so much to see. Expect many topless people on this beach, it is European and occasionally guests from the "au naturale" resort at one end wander from their territoy "au naturale" and no one seems to mind. I guess it's one of the attractions of Orient Beach. Here is a WEBSITE that will answer many questions that you may have.

Chairs and umbrellas average about $20 U.S. per couple. Personable waiters serve drinks to your lounges. When it's time for lunch, you can choose to go to an open air sheltered area surrounded by palms and seagrape - somewhat divided with different levels of decking so that there is privacy - not just a big open room. You can also be served on the beach. Kakao beach gives you a take away Styrofoam container and plastic glasses. Although the food was very good, we preferred Waikiki. The waiters brought out a low wooden coffee table, not plastic - a bucket filled with ice for your wine or beer and real glasses. Even the plates were interesting; black or white, oval, rectangular, or square, depending on your order.

Food is exceptionally good for what we are used to being served at the beach in the states. A full range of choices from hot dogs and ribs, to wraps, salads and full course meals of fish and meat served with an interesting array of small veggies, stuffed mushrooms, tiny tomatoes, with mozzarella. The Kebob meal was enough for us to share. A true experience not to be missed, even if you are on a cruise that stops only for the day.