This is by far the best restaurant I have ever been to for atmosphere! When you walk in you first see the bar area, most people are standing around it but there are some seats, to one side is the retail shop, to the other side is half a boat that houses the DJ along with an open area that I assume is intended to be a dance floor. Looking ahead from the bar are some tables and a walkway that goes out to the beach, which you can use while dining along with the swim pads in the water. The tables on the main floor are crowded, mostly out in the sun but all have umbrellas. To the right of the bar is a pool, yes inside the restaurant, along with a tube spiral slide that comes down from the second floor.

The upstairs was almost empty but it appeared as though they were setting up for a party. More tables, and another bar, all open to see out to the ocean. It was like a giant tiki hut! The only complaint I had was the size of the bathrooms. I cannot imagine how crowded this place would be later in the evening but the women's room only had 2 stalls and no standing room! Again we did not eat here but everything that passed us looked and smelled great!
Located inside the Island Village shopping center a short walk from the port.

Although not in Central America, Jamaica was the first stop on our cruise, so I've inserted this entry in this cruise port journal. If you're not inclined to take a ship sponsored tour or to venture very far from the port - Margaritaville is a good option. Hopefully, you dock at the main pier with a walkway connecting to Island Village. Unfortunately, we were the second ship in....so we were assigned to an industrial pier - It may be called "James Bond Pier," but I'm not sure. Even so, this pier is a 10-minute walk or a $2 per person cab ride to Island Village.

Margaritaville has a "Senor Frog" - Carlos and Charlies" atmosphere - fun time, drinks, food, music - everybody is happy. If you're at the main dock, just was through Island Village with all it's gift shops and bars and you'll find Margaritaville sitting on the beach. The cab driver may attempt to lure you into taking a tour, but we politely refused and it was no problem.

There is a $3 per person charge to use the beach facilities, but if you purchase any food or drinks, the fee is waived and you're given a bracelet allowing you access. Lounge chairs are $5 each but negotiable to two for $7. The beach is a small cove with a couple of other bar/restaurants, all much more quiet, hair-braiding and massage. Guards patrol the beach and vendors are not allowed on property... oh yes... they are there but they must have their feet in the water. There's a trampoline for guests use and a slide restricted to children's use.

The Margaritaville complex gives you the option of dining either on the sand or on the deck. The deck has tables surrounding a pool, a large bar and a dance floor with DJ. The second floor, a more quiet area, has tables overlooking the water, a Jacuzzi with ocean view and a slide that ends in the pool below. Being in such close proximity to the pier, it attracts mainly the passengers. Get there early and you'll find cruise ship staff and a quiet atmosphere. As the day goes on, people drop in for lunch and those that have been on tour usually end up here for last minute shopping and a drink before returning to the ship. The afternoon crowd is lively!

Click here on MARGARITAVILLE - they offer a free margarita to anyone who finds salt shakers. Hint...you must browse the "store" and look carefully, the slat shakers keep moving - and each person needs a coupon. It's only a 4-ounce drink but it's good, the second one you order will be $6 but twice the size. Enjoy!!