Anse Marcel beach

We have never been to this beach. A few years back, we went there but it seemed like it was all for the hotel there so we left. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/duh.gif" alt="" /> Should we go there this trip? What should I know before we go? Thanks, Phil

Phil,

The RIU Resort takes up much of the beach area there but if you drive in and at their guard house take the left and keep followingh the signs, you will eventually end up at the Restaurant on Ans Marcel Beach. It has its own parking area so do keep driving until you get there.

Expect calm water with a shallow walk out, great food, excellent beach service, comfortable beach furniture and a very enjoyable day.

Some have said its too pricey but I didn't find it to be moreso than any of the other nicer beachside dining locations across the island and I firmly believe you generally get what you pay for. The beach set-ups were free with lunch and the beach attendents were very nice and very accommodating.

It was one of our nicest days on the island last trip - thanks mostly to Jazzgal and Kim for so highly recommending it. It had been years to this point since we had last been there so it really was a total treat for us.

One caveat, however, if you're one who truly enjoys waves and playing in the rough waters, this beach generally does not take on these characteristics because of the very protected cove at Ans Marcell. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

What Pat said. I went four times during my three weeks on the island in June. It's definitely my favorite beach on the island. Yes, it's an expensive day, but you get what you pay for. The water is simply wonderful; I could walk out to the water being up to my neck with no drop off or waves. Some say it gets no wind, but I didn't find that to be the case. I have nothing bad to say about this beach experience; I just wish it was closer to Divi!

The only comparable experience IMO is Dreams. The food at Dreams is probably slightly better, but the beach at Anse Marcel is better because of the great sand and gentle water.

Hi Pat,

Anse Marcel has always been a favorite, I remember the first week the Anse Marcel Restaurant opened then when the new parking area opened too.

Lyn

Thanks, Pat and Jazzgal (your trip report is what got me thinking about this beach). Sounds great to me. Calm water, good food and a great beach are perfect for us. I'll report after our quick trip. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> Phil

Are you permitted to bring you own cooler and snacks? Is the water clear?

We did the same thing....
We have to try it now that we know where to go and heard all the great reviews.
We also have to try Dreams again. We left, a couple of times, because of the wind.

Chicki,

I don't know if you can bring a cooler or not, but if it helps at all, I do know I wouldn't be comfortable doing so myself, and I bring a small cooler to Mullett often, as well as some of the other beaches. To me, it would be like bringing your own beverages to a restaurant....... but I guess it might be done. Perhaps they would then charge you for the beach set-ups but that's a guess on my part.

And Terry,

I think, once you can convince Rit the drive is just another 'island experience' - this usually works with John - you will absolutely love the spot in its entirety. The restrooms are lovely and clean; the service staff is totally pleasant and accommodating; the breeze is gentle - and much as I enjoy Dreams for it's convenience and good food - this place gets an extra nod from me because the water has always been easily accessible there - no stones or pebbles, no step-downs or shelves, and you can float on a raft all day on the gentle waters. Dreams is a great full service beach spot but IN MY OPINION, as nice as it is, it's just not always a great swimming beach. But we do enjoy it for long lunches and great dinners.... <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

Thank you Pat. So is there just one restaurant and you are sitting in front of it for the day unlike Orient where there are several bars/restaurants/shops?

Yes. And the one restaurant is very good.

The beach loungers are well spaced and you're NOT sitting right on top oh your nearest neighbor. Even if you're not in the front row, you still have a water seat, more or less. There may be areas that are separated between this spot and RIU but there wouldn't be any facilities and parking then becomes a hike. The beaches on SXM are all free but I still would not be comfortable in between the two areas trying to set up as an independent visitor. Others might disagree but that's my take on it. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

Based on previous posts, we decided to try this beach when we were on island last March. I can't believe it took so long for us to discover this gem. The great food, clean bathrooms, comfy beach furniture make this well worth the little extra. We will definitely visit more than once when we return next March. Can't wait!

How much extra are the costs of food etc? Is it kid friendly or a more reserved spot for adults?

I love this beach! There were several children playing in the water when we were there (twice) during our June trip. The water is perfect for children as it is calm and level. The restaurant is a bit pricey (not sure about a children's menu), but if you can get past that, I think the kids would really enjoy this beach.

To give you an idea of prices, one of the lunches we had consisted of Red Snapper with rice & chutney for me; Steak Carpaccio and salad for hubby, and we shared a bottle of sparkling water. I believe we had 3 alcoholic drinks between us (I'm sorry, can't remember exactly now). The total for the day (including the chairs and umbrella) was $95. IMHO, it was worth every penny -- the food was delicious, service was great, beach wonderful. Go for it….you won't know unless you try it.

Ok. I get it now. It sounds like a very nice beach to try out. We will be there in exactly 14 days and will definitely give this one a try. So far we have only tried Orient, Mullet, Baie Rouge, Pinel, and Friars. We need to expand our adventures. This trip we want to include Simpson Bay for Karakter, Anse Marcel, and Cupecoy. Thanks again.
Renee

Thanks for the info Irish1223.

If I went there, I would treat it like we do Dreams--our main meal of the day is lunch, and then dinner is something simple like a sandwich or leftovers or cheese and crackers. If I eat that big at lunch, I don't really want a lot for dinner anyway.

No! They actually had a sign up in June saying no coolers. The water is relatively clear. I found that the day I went to Anguilla/Shoal Bay East that the water was clearer there.

Actually, I believe there is another beach bar in about the middle of the beach. I confess I didn't walk down there, but it was a structure where people were sitting around a counter. Riu is at one end, and the Anse Marcel Beach Restaurant at the other; but there is something in the middle.

There are also chairs for rent by the watersport hut. We often rent from them and bring a cooler and sandwiches, the lounges aren't as comfortable, they are the white chairs with no pads.

If all the beaches are public can they really prevent you from bringing a few snacks? Sorry, but when on vacation I munch all day long....chips, fruit, cheese, etc.....just curious.

Since I haven't (and wouldn't) try it, I can't answer your question.

They can't prevent you from BRINGING SNACKS, but they could prevent you from EATING THEM. Some people in the past have been asked to leave because they were eating and drinking their own food right in front of the restaurants on the beach. If you really want to do that , it is recommended that you set up your own chairs in an area away from the restaurants on Orient Beach or go to an area with no facilities like Plum Bay Or Longue Bay. The Club O area also has no problem with you bringing your own supplies for the day.I have seen people on the Anse Marcel Beach bring drinks and snacks for their children and later they all went to the restaurant to eat together later in the day. Being courteous and respecting the businesses on the beach is the key.

The beaches may be public, but the chairs and umbrellas you rent belong to the establishment. Agree with what was said above.