Chunky Monkey Beach Club

If you’re planning a cruise stop in Costa Maya and want a calm, all-inclusive beach experience away from the busy crowds, the Chunky Monkey Beach Club offers just that. This private beach retreat promises a full day of sun, sea, and good food, with the convenience of direct transport from the cruise port. While some travelers have noted challenges like seaweed or administrative changes, many still find it a worthwhile escape. It’s a great pick for those looking to unwind, enjoy fresh local cuisine, and sip drinks in a quieter setting.

What we love about this experience is its simplicity and focus on comfort—all drinks included and no rush to leave. Plus, the chance to savor delicious local fish paired with Mexican sides makes it stand out. A possible drawback is the lack of transportation included, meaning you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, which some travelers found inconvenient. This tour suits visitors craving a peaceful, private beach day with good food, especially if they prefer to avoid large, crowded resorts.

Key Points

• All-inclusive drinks make relaxing easy without constant wallet worries.
• The private setting offers peace and space away from crowds.
• Fresh local fish with Mexican sides provides a genuine taste of the region.
• You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
• The experience is flexible—spend as long as you like at the beach.
• Be aware of potential seaweed issues, depending on the season.

What Is the Chunky Monkey Beach Club Experience Really Like?

We’ll start with the core appeal: a day spent soaking up the sun at Mahahual’s peaceful beachfront, with the sound of gentle waves and the scent of salty air. The tour is priced at $95 per person, which includes all drinks—soft and alcoholic, plus a lunch of local fish with Mexican sides and salsa. For those who enjoy combining a laid-back atmosphere with tasty, authentic food, this setup hits the mark.

The Transportation and Meeting Point

Unlike some cruise excursions that include pick-up, this tour requires you to logistically reach the meeting spot at Av. P.º del Puerto 1180 in Mahahual. As one reviewer pointed out, “Their office is closed permanently, so you have to take a cab to the area,” which means travelers need to plan ahead and consider local transportation costs. The tour is flexible—once you arrive, you’re free to spend the day relaxing or swimming at your own pace.

The Beach Atmosphere

The Chunky Monkey Beach Club prides itself on providing a peaceful environment—a significant perk for those tired of busy resorts or crowded beaches. The setting is surrounded by nature, offering a quiet spot with plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, or simply listening to the waves. The review comments, “Relax on the beach away from the crowds,” resonate strongly with travelers seeking tranquility. Keep in mind that seaweed can sometimes be an issue, as one visitor noted, which might affect swimming or beach access depending on the season.

Food and Drinks

The highlight for many is the local fish lunch, accompanied by Mexican side dishes and salsa. It’s straightforward but flavorful fare, perfect for a beach day. The inclusion of soft drinks and alcohol adds to the relaxed vibe, allowing you to sip margaritas or beers without worrying about extra costs. One traveler said, “They do get the best food & drinks in Mahahual,” reinforcing the idea that this experience emphasizes quality and local flavor.

Privacy and Length of the Stay

Since this is a private experience, only your group will be at the beach club, which makes it excellent for families, couples, or small groups wanting exclusivity. You can choose to stay as long as you like, with no pressure to leave at a specific time, which is rare for cruise excursions. When you’re ready, a simple transport back to the cruise port will be arranged.

The Reality According to Reviews

While most reviews are positive, some recent feedback points to logistical issues. One reviewer, Karen T, noted, “No longer offers pickup, and the office is closed,” meaning that travelers now need to plan their transportation independently. She also mentioned seaweed problems, which can be seasonal, and limited beach access via the shore. Despite this, she did enjoy the boat snorkeling package, indicating that some water activities are still available if you’re interested.

What Makes It Worth Considering?

The value lies in the combination of privacy, delicious local cuisine, and unlimited drinks. For those wanting a laid-back day rather than an action-packed adventure, this quiet spot offers a genuine, authentic experience that’s easy to customize. If you’re comfortable arranging your transfer and don’t mind the possibility of seaweed, you’ll find this a relaxing and worthwhile stop.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a private, peaceful beach day with all the comforts of all-inclusive drinks and a tasty lunch. It’s perfect if you prefer the idea of spending your day at your own pace without joining large crowds. Families, couples, or groups of friends who value comfort, good food, and a tranquil setting will likely appreciate what Chunky Monkey offers.

However, those who prioritize transportation included or want a more active water-based excursion might want to explore other options. It’s also good to be aware of potential seaweed issues—if you’re visiting during a season when seaweed is common, your beach experience might be affected.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In essence, the Chunky Monkey Beach Club provides a straightforward, enjoyable day by the sea, emphasizing relaxation and quality. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking peace, local flavors, and unlimited drinks, all in a private setting. The value is particularly high if you’re someone who enjoys taking things slow and savoring good food without rushing.

If you’re okay with making your own way to the meeting point and don’t mind seaweed, this tour can be a highlight of your Costa Maya visit. It’s less about high-energy activities and more about unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Mahahual’s coast.

FAQs

Do I need to arrange my transportation to the meeting point?
Yes. As the office is no longer offering pickup, you’ll need to take a taxi or other transportation to the specified address in Mahahual.

What’s included in the price?
The $95 fee covers all-you-can-drink soft drinks and alcohol, plus a lunch of fresh local fish with Mexican sides and salsa. You are responsible for your transportation there.

Can I spend as long as I want at the beach?
Yes. The day is flexible, and you can stay at the beach club as long as you like until you decide to leave.

Is there any water activity included?
While the main experience focuses on relaxing at the beach, some reviews mention a boat snorkeling package, but it appears to be an add-on and not included in the base price.

Are there any seasonal considerations I should know?
Seaweed can sometimes affect swimming access, depending on the time of year. If swimming or beach access is important, check recent reviews or ask your provider.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will forfeit your payment, so plan accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
Yes, as it’s a private, relaxed environment, families with children who enjoy beach days will find it a good fit. Be mindful of seaweed and the need for adult supervision in the water.

This private escape at Chunky Monkey Beach Club offers a simple but satisfying way to enjoy Costa Maya’s coast. With good food, unlimited drinks, and a peaceful setting, it’s a fine choice for travelers wanting to unwind and soak up the sun without the hustle. Just remember to plan your transport, be prepared for seasonal seaweed, and, most importantly, relax.