The beach in Playa Mujeres was different from other ocean beaches I had been on before. The land is protected as a conservation area and remains in a wild state. The beach is a dune and is surrounded by mangroves. It is incredibly wide with bushes and wildlife including turtles. The sand was the whitest I had ever seen. The water was cool and filled with fish that quickly scurried away as I swam towards them.

My dad and I would walk along the beach mid-afternoon on most days. We witnessed large birds flying overhead, crabs and iguanas nesting in the dunes to hide from the hot sun. One day my dad pointed out what I thought were sharks. They happened to be a pair of swordfish. I realized they were simply more scared of me than I was of them.

During our stay I learned of local efforts to protect sea turtles. In keeping the beaches natural and free of litter, it provides a safe place for the release of baby sea turtles. I hope to return to witness this during the summer months.