Beach Day, food + drinks + the chilangaloense beach club

Planning a trip to Costa Maya and considering a beach day? There’s no shortage of options, but the experience at La Chilangaloense Beach Club offers a mix of relaxing moments, tasty food, and some snorkeling adventure. While it’s not a perfect paradise, many travelers find it worth the price—especially for the opportunity to enjoy good eats and a lively beach ambiance all in one spot.

What we especially like about this trip is the inclusive nature—there’s a solid four-hour open bar and a variety of delicious Mexican dishes like fish tacos and chimichangas. Plus, the chance to snorkel near Mexico’s largest reef is a significant draw. However, some visitors have expressed concerns over changes in quality, and a few have found the experience less pristine than they hoped. Still, this tour tends to suit those looking for a hassle-free beach day with good food and drinks in a lively setting.

If you’re someone who values beachside relaxation, good food, and snorkeling without too many complications, this tour could be a fit. But if you’re after pristine, untouched nature or a more exclusive experience, it might be worth exploring other options or reading the details closely.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with food, drinks, and beach club access.
• Snorkeling available near Mexico’s biggest reef—great for water lovers.
• Cost around $92 per person, including food and drinks, which offers decent value.
• Reviews are mixed—some praise the scenery and food, others note declines in quality and service.
• Duration is about 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• Location in Mahahual, a charming beach town with a relaxed vibe.

What to Expect from the Tour

Meeting Point and Arrival

The tour begins at Poncho’s Avenida Mahahual, a familiar spot in the town’s main area. From there, you’ll head to La Chilangaloense Beach Club, a cozy little spot facing one of Mexico’s largest reefs. The setup is pretty straightforward—your group is small, capped at 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal.

The Beach Club Experience

Once you arrive, you gain access to the beach club facilities, which include loungers, beach swings, and shaded cabanas if you’re lucky. As many reviews point out, the setting is charming, with a peaceful vibe, especially if you arrive early. Christina_W raved about the “gorgeous little stretch of beach,” and the staff’s friendliness makes a difference in how relaxed your day feels.

Food and Drinks

The highlight for many is the all-you-can-drink open bar for four hours. You can expect beer and fruity margaritas, with Tamarind margaritas standing out as a popular choice. The food menu features local favorites like fish tacos, chimichangas, burritos, ceviche, and various tacos. Several reviewers mention the quality of the food positively—BeckyB called it “fabulous,” and Margarita_R appreciated the “great ceviche.” The meals are served in generous portions, and the staff tends to be attentive, making your meal leisurely and enjoyable.

Snorkeling Adventure

Snorkeling is included in the package, facing the largest reef in Mexico. We loved the way this adds a splash of adventure to a relaxing beach day. You’re provided with snorkeling equipment, so you can explore the underwater world at your own pace. However, a few guests, like Anna_S, mention that access to the water can sometimes be restricted or confusing—like barriers blocking entry or unclear instructions. So, if snorkeling is a priority, it’s worth arriving early and confirming conditions.

The Downsides and Considerations

Not everyone’s experience has been glowing. Some reviews highlight a decline in quality since ownership changes, with Todd_B noting tripled prices and the removal of included boat snorkeling. Others have described the place as less clean and less maintained than before, which can impact your overall vibe.

A few travelers have reported feeling misled or surprised by the actual conditions—Dale_N mentioned that the hotel has “gone way down,” and John_L found the water muddy and the food disappointing at first glance.

Plus, the location isn’t without logistical quirks. For instance, transportation back to the cruise port costs about $4 per person, which is worth factoring into your budget.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The mix of reviews shows that while some visitors consider this a peaceful, picturesque spot with tasty food and friendly staff, others find it less appealing due to maintenance issues or changes in service quality. Christina_W’s review particularly captures the charm—“peaceful and beautiful,” with fantastic chimichangas and Tamarind margaritas—so if you’re seeking a relaxed, friendly environment with good eats, this could be a winner.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a straightforward beach day with inclusive drinks and meals, and enjoy some snorkeling in an accessible, lively setting. It’s great if you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere with options to lounge or dip into the water. Families or groups wanting a simple day out in Mahahual could find this appealing, especially if they’re okay with a “sometimes hit or miss” vibe. But if pristine, ultra-quiet beaches or exclusive luxury are what you seek, you might want to look elsewhere.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts about 5 hours, giving you enough time to relax, eat, and snorkel without feeling rushed.
• The price of roughly $92 includes food, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and beach access—a fair deal if you’re happy with a lively, casual setting.
• The meeting point is easy to find in Mahahual’s main area, but plan your transport back to the port as it’s an additional $4.
• To get the most out of your day, arrive early to secure good seating and avoid the crowds.
• Remember that tips are not included, so bringing some cash for the staff is appreciated.
• The weather can influence your experience, especially the water clarity and overall atmosphere—good weather enhances the snorkeling and beach vibes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly described as family-focused, children who enjoy beaches, swimming, and casual dining might find it a good day out. Always consider the specific age and swimming ability of your kids, especially for snorkeling.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, but it is near public transit options. The return transfer to the cruise port costs around $4 per person.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What’s the quality of the food?
Reviews indicate the food is generally good, with standout items like chimichangas and fish tacos. Some guests have expressed that the quality has declined recently, but many still enjoyed the meals.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour offers a 4-hour open bar that includes beer and fruity margaritas. Service is attentive, and the drinks are generally well-received.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the package, and you can explore near the reef offshore. However, access can sometimes be restricted, so early arrival helps.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, cash for tips, and possibly waterproof gear for snorkeling. Arriving early ensures good seating and access to amenities.

How busy does it get?
Since group size is limited to 10, it’s pretty manageable. Still, the location can fill up during peak times, so early arrival helps improve your experience.

Final Thoughts

This beach day at La Chilangaloense offers a relaxed and enjoyable escape with plenty of opportunities for good food, drinks, and a bit of water fun. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value casual environments and scenic views over exclusivity or pristine conditions. The experience has its ups and downs, especially with the recent changes some reviews note, but if you’re prepared for a lively, informal outing, it can be a rewarding stop in Costa Maya.

Keep your expectations balanced—some days will be better than others, but the friendly staff, tasty food, and the chance to snorkel near a major reef make it worth considering if you’re craving a beachside break. Just arrive early, go with an open mind, and enjoy the laid-back vibes of Mahahual.