OK, please forgive me in advance for this question, but I understand the differences between a resort up north and the relative convenience of southern spots. But maybe I can pinpoint my quest for advice a bit more:
I would like to mainly relax, but I like to sit on the beach and swim a bit (ocean and pool). I would like to be able to go out for a casual local lunch/dinner, or get some simple groceries for a simple meal at "home". As well, I could go for a drink or three on a couple evenings at a local bar (and catch the last water taxi?). I was wondering if anyone had experience/opinions regarding the above mentioned (title) places. I understand I'll rely on water taxis for one, and the other is much smaller and not as luxurious inside, but has a beach and proximity. I want quiet too, day and night. Is this even an issue in mid-October? Wow, what a pain I am. Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

jr suite at Mata Rocks

Thanks for the quick response! Sounds like you've done it. And what was the room like? I'd like to think I can count on the continental breakfast there, and getting some groceries to make some lunches/meals myself and go out to eat as well, esp. for dinner. Is there a stove/pots to boil pasta, dishes/silverware, etc.?
As far as the beach, is it quiet to sit out and do nothing? Quiet at night to sleep?
Thanks again.

You'll be OK there.

Thanks, I think I'll skip the 7 day lock-in at the CMR. Probably bike up there one day to see what I missed (another time?).
What is Mata Rocks like compared to Banana Beach. My imagination says BB is bigger and less personal, but "nicer" rooms with a bit better price. The oceanfront suites look good on the internet, but wonder how the courtyard ones compare. Is either place too crowded this month to prohibit a room switch after arrival? Thanks much in advance for whoever can help. I'll be there on the weekend. Thinking of maybe staying 4-5 days and doing a couple few in the jungle.

We stayed at BB for two weeks last month and loved it. We had a courtyare suite and it was a walk down the stairs & around to corner to the beach, so I thought it was worth the money saved over teh beachfront price - more for rum punch! We found the service very personal, got to know Roxie in the restaurant & bar staff, Selfa our maid, Reginald the security guy. Everyone was friendly and helpful and the other guests were fun too. We really liked having a kitchen and they are pretty well stocked as far as dishes, appliances, etc. Plus - a big plus - we never had to wash our own dishes!

We checked out a lot of the other hotels, more out of curiosity than anything else and I wouldn't have made a change. For the price I didn't see anything that beat Banana Beach.

Thats a great post, thank you. The only other place I'm considering is Mata Rocks. They look good too, smaller and very personal, and I think you have sand and a walk in beach vs. seawall (although they are next to each other?). They throw in a snorkel trip, but in the end the prices probably even out.

You will never regret it if you choose MataRocks.....Their staff will make you feel great...... They are so personal you will feel like you have known them forever.... We have stayed there four years & wouldn't even consider anywhere else...... :p

I'm with JohnBoy - Mata Rocks is a pefect little gem.

ya can't go wrong with either one - and you'll feel quite at home whichever way you go. EVERYONE is friendly and takes a personal approach to your needs.