A very economical all-inclusive option on the island of Cozumel, El Cid La Ceiba Beach caters to a mix of couples, families, and singles. Cruise ship visitors with day passes can make the on-site atmosphere a little livelier (a pro for some, a con for others since it can become quite crowded); and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and nightlife spots easily within walking distance (including the Hard Rock Café and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville). The beach is manmade and small, with steps going down into the water (the subpar beach has a strong negative effect on the Overall Beach Resort Rating, lowering it from the lower B range to the lower C range), the pool is relatively small and basic, the food is mostly mediocre at best, and the fitness center is tiny and disappointing; but the property offers fairly good rooms for the price, scenic oceanfront dining, a unique hot tub with a swim-up bar, and great ocean (and cruise ship) views from the rooms. Activities include excellent snorkeling and scuba diving (including outstanding snorkeling right on-site and diving at the nearby Palancar Reef), beach volleyball (on a great court), tennis, outdoor oceanfront massages, stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and deep sea fishing.
Guests returning to the United States are eligible for complimentary COVID-19 antigen tests prior to departure (two tests per room, minimum three night stay required). Testing is done on-site.