Solo cruiser looking for advice on beaches

[bnbeyer]

I posted this in the solo cruisers forum, but I'm also going to post it in the relevant Caribbean ports forums. Hoping to get some feedback.

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I'm excited to be going on the Carnival Vista Nov. 2 with a free balcony stateroom. I won a seat in the slot tournament finals and the casino. I was going to take a friend, but she had to back out. My husband doesn't want to go because of our dogs and teenager in school. I asked my sister and another friend, but they aren't available. So solo it is! Since the cruise was free, that's really not a problem for me.  However, I don't want to do shore excursions. I was planning to just take taxis to beaches at the ports. Since I'll be alone, I'm wondering if you have recommendations on if these would be safe or not for a solo woman and if you would recommend a different beach. I do like snorkeling also.

 

Montego Bay - I was probably going to go to Doctor's Cave beach or maybe Frenchman's Cove beach. Thoughts or recommendations?

 

Cayman Islands - I was thinking about going to Cemetery Beach, but it is isolated with no facilities, so since I'll be alone, I'm not going to do that.  There are a gazillion other beaches I've seen listed, and I don't know which one to choose.  Maybe I should just tag along with a group from the ship?  Options I've seen on the SevenMileBeach are Royal Palms, Beach Club public beach, Sea Grape beach, Courtyard Marriott, Smith Cove, and Spotts beach. 

 

Cozumel - I'm debating between Chankanaab, which I heard was a good option for both snorkling and the beach, or Paradise Beach, which Mitsugirly reviewed as offering great facilities, good food and drinks, a HUGE pool, nice beach and good service.

 

I welcome your thoughts!

[crewsweeper]

For Grand Cayman. Royal Palms is a good bet if you don't want to do an excursion.  Lots of fellow cruisers will be there.

 

Coz, unless you want to snorkel, Paradise Beach is a better choice, IMO.  You have an admission charge to get into Chank. But a variety of things to do once there.  North end of Chank is better for snorkeling.