Western Caribbean on the Zaandam

One can reach Seven Mile Beach by walking along the road, which runs along the beach from the port area. Unfortunately, the sidewalks, when there are any, are not in good repair, and there are numerous areas which are replete with the devastation that the hurricanes of last fall left behind. Every ten feet, there was another taxi or bus honking, trying to offer us a lift to the beach. Having indulged in many lido-deck desserts, we wanted to walk off some of the calories—it was about a 35-minute walk. Someone had recommended the Marriott, and it seemed a good location—there was still lots of construction going on. We had to purchase chairs for $6 each, but there were no umbrellas available when we arrived—we did manage to inherit one late from the group next to us and when we left, we passed it along again. We also figured that since we had paid for chairs, we could use the washroom facilities, which were well-maintained, and we were not challenged.

The water was clear turquoise and a perfect temperature, and the beach had nice white sand with a gentle slope into the water, so small children could play safely. If you had your snorkel gear, you would likely see a few fish and a bit of coral.

Although most cruise ships offer shore excursions to Chankanaab, it is cheaper and just as easy to get there on your own. In fact, if you are really brave and it is not terribly hot, you could actually walk the distance if you are docked at the Puerto Maya pier—it is 3.2 kilometers. We elected to take a cab, which cost us $10 each way. It costs $12 each to get into the park. There are lifejackets and snorkel gear available to rent.

Chankanaab is quite a large park with lots of coastline, palapas and a host of very non-ergonomic beach chairs. There is a lagoon with a walking path around it and lots of lizards and iguanas soaking up the sun. There is also a nature walk which weaves in and out around labeled native foliage and is interspersed with numerous replicas of ancient Mayan sculptures.

The shoreline is defined by a rocky ledge, and here and there is access to the water. Chankanaab is the best place for snorkeling with a great variety of colorful coral and an equally bountiful selection of vividly colored fish. The water was warm enough to stay in for hours.

For those with small children, there was an inlet with a sandy beach and very calm water. Several meters from shore in that area was a large rock, which the pelicans had a fondness for.

There were two restaurants where one could purchase food and I heard from others that it was reasonably priced and acceptable to the palate. There were two washroom/changing facilities and lockers were available to rent.

Most cruise ships offer shore excursions to different beaches. We had heard that Doctor’s Cave Beach was surprisingly nice, considering it was more or less right in town, so we decided to take the bus from the dock. Our bus driver pointed out some highlights as we drove—our favorite was Jamaica’s free hotel—free food and accommodation, mon.

Although not a large beach, Doctor’s Cave Beach is close to town and a lovely place to spend a day. Upon arrival, you pay at the booth for your admission, chairs and umbrella. Immediately there is someone to fetch these items and put them up where you would like. The umbrellas are red, blue and yellow and make a lovely picture from the terrace which runs along the beach. The chairs are also colorfully striped but they are horribly uncomfortable and cannot be adjusted to do anything but sit up in.

There is a building at one end of the beach where one can rent a variety of water craft such as jet skis, but walk beyond that area and you are immediately accosted by locals trying to sell jewelry and drugs.

The water is warm, but the beach slopes quite rapidly after the first couple of feet—not ideal for little kids. About thirty feet from shore are three enormous trampolines and these were a popular spot to swim to and then sun on or otherwise goof around on depending on your age.

There were bathrooms, change facilities and lockers, also several places to get food. You could also order food and drinks right from your little oasis on the sand.