The Beach

(Yes, there are rocks. However, it is better than the Sandos in the Playacar area south of Playa del Carmen) 

Sunrise at the Caracol (2009)

Many of the beaches at the mega resorts to the north and south have no structure. They are a line of sand with waves breaking on it. This accounts for the changes month to month as the waves can erode the sand and reclaim it to the sea. The Caracol resort has put huge bags of sand in several lines and angles to break the waves as they roll in and this holds the sand. The result is an environment for fish, a gentle floating area for inflatables, and a great playground for kids.

On the outer bags the waves can crash over. Guests were having a hoot trying to stay on top.

Lots of sand and calm waters. Sand bags off shore break the waves, provide habitat for fish, and discourage sand erosion. The pictures below were taken in December of 2009 showing the wide expanse of sand. Left (looking north) and right (looking south).

The beach in late 2009. If enlarged you can see the pelican about to hit the water in a dive for dinner. They'll dive right next to you if you are standing in a school of herring.

The wave action makes the water cloudy and a lot of sand is stirred up so it is not good snorkeling. On calmer days the fish are numerous between the bags and it is a great area to snorkel.

Enter on the north or south end of the Caracol beach and there are no rocks but wear water shoes if you feel more comfortable.

Beach at sunrise is a special time. Couples linger, it's peaceful and quiet as the sun rises quickly out of the off shore cloud bank.