geanster

Hi!
I'm wanting to book something this weekend for a trip the first week of July.
Beach is paramount. Mother/daughter trip.
Safety, ease of transportation, cost are factors.
Would like a beach view from room and a short walk to beach.
I would like my mom to get to use her passport again.
Particular beaches or areas to shop for would be helpful as I've spent the last few hours researching but it's hard and I trust these forums entirely.

Thanks!

hopefulist

We love Belize but it's not the best for beaches if you're looking for that postcard/white sand look. It's awesome for snorkeling, diving, caving, Maya sites, and culture, though. It would be my choice of the ones you mention but maybe something south of Cancún like Tulúm since beaches top your list?

My photos with blog, travelogue, and review links on the main page of each collection are below in case you're interested - all my recommendations are embedded there.
Happy trails!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/staceyholeman/collections

SambaChula

Look into Tulum. Stay right on the beach in the hotel zone. Beautiful beaches. Good food. Fairly easy transfers from Cancun airport or rent a car from Easyway. Day trip to Akumal to swim with huge turtles and rays. More day trips to various Maya ruins, cenotes and to the Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve.

JeanH

I'd agree with Tulum, if beach is truly your top priority.

If shopping is right up there, perhaps Playa del Carmen, or, even Cancun.

Those who know me know I don't like Cancun, but, it does have beautiful beaches and lots of shopping.

You might also look at Isla Mujeres.

jamie99

Akumal or Isla Mujeres, love Tulum but the hotels are getting a little pricey for me even in low season for a nice place.

volcanogirl

Tulemar Bungalows in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica is really nice, and they have their own beach. Good restaurants in walking distance. Gorgeous views. Tons of wildlife like monkeys and sloths on the property, but not much shopping if that really interests you.

We also love Victoria House on Ambergris Caye, Belize.

kja

Another recommendation to look into Tulum, or perhaps somewhere else on the Riviera Maya, but not Cancun itself -- it can be a bit too touristy IMO.

geanster

Thanks so much for the suggestions!
I was getting excited about Tulum and then noticed multiple reviews from people who've been there the last few weeks mentioning being unable to swim because of seaweed and red flags. Someone else said a 20 year native said it's been worse than he's ever seen it these last 3-4 months. I got the impression that it's north to Cancun as well. I'm still looking into the others mentioned here but still looking!