Money Bar is one of the island's best-known beach clubs, a casual stretch of sand and shade on the western shore where the water is clear and shallow enough to wade in. The day pass here combines a beach chair, a Mexican lunch and a guided snorkel, so you can spend time in the water with a guide and then settle in with food and a drink. The setup is simple and sociable: loungers and palapas on the sand, a bar and kitchen, and gear for water play such as snorkels, kayaks and paddle boards on some passes. It suits visitors who want a beach day without the structure of a park and who like the idea of paying one price for a chair, lunch and a little activity. Cruise passengers favor it because it is close enough to the piers to reach by short taxi ride, and boat trips to El Cielo often finish here. The pass has a strong guest rating, around 4.8 from well over a hundred reviews, which is high for a beach club.
Why go
Some days you want shade, a cold drink and clear water without any schedule. Money Bar delivers that, with the added benefit of a guided snorkel so you are not left to find your own way into the water. It sits in the middle ground between a free public beach, which has little infrastructure, and a full park such as Chankanaab or KUZA, which charges more and has more going on.
How to do it well
Go in the morning or around midday, when the beach is lively but not packed, and claim a chair near the water. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel and cash for tips and any extras. Beach clubs on this coast generally allow entry with a purchase of food or drinks, so the pass is best when you intend to eat and drink there anyway. Ask the staff about water conditions before you swim, because wind can make the surface choppy, and wear a vest if you are not a confident swimmer.
What to know
The snorkeling is a pleasant introduction rather than a reef highlight, so do not treat it as a substitute for a boat trip to Palancar. Passes and inclusions vary, with some packages adding kayaks, paddle boards or transfers, so check precisely what your version covers. Weather can close water activities, and the club gets busy when ships are in. Taxis are easy to find at the entrance, but agree the fare before you set off, and keep an eye on the time if you are heading back to a ship.
What to expect
The experience
A beach club day pass with a chair, a Mexican lunch and a guided snorkel on the west coast.
Best time
Late morning to mid-afternoon on a calm day.
How long
Three to six hours is typical.
Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and cash for tips, and check exactly what your pass includes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a no-fuss beach day with food, a chair and a little snorkeling.
- Families
- Good: shallow, clear water and food on site, but supervise children closely.
- Couples
- Easy and sociable; a palapa and a cold drink are the plan.
- Pair with
- A morning boat trip to El Cielo, or the San Gervasio ruins.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
What does the pass include?+
This pass combines a beach chair, a Mexican lunch and a guided snorkel. Some other versions add kayaks and paddle boards, so check the details of the one you choose.
Is the snorkeling good?+
It is a friendly introduction with clear water, but the best reefs are further out on boat trips to Palancar and El Cielo.
How do I get there from the cruise piers?+
By a short taxi ride along the western coast. Agree the fare before you set off and arrange your return at the club.
Is there a minimum spend?+
Beach clubs on this coast generally expect you to buy food or drinks. The pass is easiest value when you intend to do so.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, the shallow water and facilities work for families, but adult supervision in the water is essential.
