Costa Maya, Mexico

One of my favorite beaches in the Caribbean is in a little fishing village-Mahajual-which is about three to four miles from the cruise pier and costs two dollars by taxi. Most tourists don't there as the port has a massive "tourist trap" with a swimming pool and shops that sell "need me nots"-plus numerous bars and restaurants. If you want local color- visit the village. A single main road is lined with a short row of rustic, screened in restaurants and a miniscule grocery; across the street is a long white beach lines with fishing boats and protected with a reef. It is wonderful. You don't get beaten up by the waves-Coronas are one dollar and they bring them to the beach in a bucket with ice.
When you arrive, don't stop where the cab drops you off. Continue walking about a football field down the beach and sit in front of the El Delfin-great food-great drinks and few people.