free beach near costa maya cruise port

17 Best Things to Do in Costa Maya [Cruise Port Guide]

Sharing is caring!

If you’re going on a Western Caribbean cruise, there’s a good chance that you’ll be visiting the port of Costa Maya, Mexico. Costa Maya serves as a gateway to the Mexican Caribbean, offering many fun and interesting things for cruise passengers to see and do!

The Costa Maya cruise port was specifically built to cater to cruise passengers, providing many activities and attractions both in and around the cruise terminal. Although a few years ago this port was lesser known than popular Cozumel , Costa Maya is now frequented by several cruise lines.

There are a lot of great things to do in Costa Maya while on a cruise, including activities right at the cruise terminal, shore excursions to Mayan ruins, and beach clubs.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  

Where Is Costa Maya Cruise Port?

Costa Maya Cruise Port is a popular cruise destination located on the eastern coast of Mexico, in the state of Quintana Roo, near the small fishing village of Mahahual. Costa Maya, Mexico is approximately 124 miles (200 km) south of Playa del Carmen and 149 miles (240 km) south of Cozumel.

Situated on the Caribbean Sea, Costa Maya is an ideal destination for cruise ships exploring the Mexican Caribbean region. The Puerto Costa Maya is in close proximity to popular tourist attractions, such as ancient Mayan ruins and beautiful beaches, making it a popular stop for cruise itineraries in the Western Caribbean.

Costa Maya Cruise Port Overview

Cruise ships typically dock at the Costa Maya Cruise Port, and it’s common to have three to four cruise ships dock at a time.

Passengers can walk off the cruise ship along the t-shaped pier into the cruise port area. However, it can be a longer walk than it looks. If you have an excursion to meet, allow at least 15 minutes to walk to the meeting area.

There are free trolleys available for cruise passengers who have have difficulty walking or would like the service.

Once in the Costa Maya port, you’ll find a large swimming pool with a swim up bar and free lounge chairs. There are several restaurants (many serving Mexican cuisine) and bars, boutiques, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

You’ll find a tourist booth with information for local beaches and excursions that will take you outside of the cruise port area. There is also a meeting area for those who have pre-booked Costa Maya shore excursions and tours.

Costa Maya cruise port was severely damage by Hurricane Dean in 2007 and took several years to recover. We visited recently while on a Virgin Voyages cruise, and could see that the area has much improved.

Costa Maya – What Cruise Passengers Need to Know

The currency in Costa Maya, Mexico is the Mexican Peso. However, US dollars are widely accepted. Keep in mind that you may receive change in Pesos, even if you pay in US dollars.

The symbol for Pesos is $, like the US dollar, which can cause some confusion. It’s a good idea to double check pricing when making a purchase in US dollars, as well as to check the change that you’re receiving.

ATM at the Costa Maya Cruise Terminal

If you prefer to use the local currency, you can withdraw Pesos at ATMs, which are located within the Costa Maya cruise terminal.

The official language in Costa Maya, Mexico is Spanish. However, English is widely spoken by tour guide, shopkeepers and restaurant workers at the cruise port and surrounding tourist areas.

When venturing outside of the cruise terminal area, the locals may be less proficient in English, but overall communicating should’t be a problem. Knowing a few words or phrases in Spanish, including please and thank you, is always helpful.

The weather in Costa Maya, Mexico, is typically warm and tropical throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from the(mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius).

The dry season, from November to April, is mostly sunny and rain-free. The wet season, from May to October, is generally humid with occasional rain and sun showers.

How to Get Around in Costa Maya

There are a few ways to get around Costa Maya as a cruise traveler.

If you’re planning to stay in the cruise port area, walking is the easiest way to get around. There is a complimentary trolley to bring cruisers from the ship’s pier to the cruise port.

Taxi, Shuttle or Golf Cart

Taxis, shuttles and golf carts are available to take you to areas outside of the cruise terminal, including the Mahahual Village.

Booking a shore excursion is best if you want to venture further out and away from the Costa Maya cruise port.

Best Things to Do in Costa Maya Cruise Port

Many cruise passengers decide to hang out around the free saltwater swimming pool in the centre of the Costa Maya cruise port, followed by a bit of souvenir shopping.

There’s nothing wrong with this port day plan. However, if you’re wondering what to do in Costa Maya cruise port, there is a lot more to see and do!

Beaches in Costa Maya Near the Cruise Port

Heading to a local beach is a popular activity for many cruise passengers. These are the most popular beaches and best beach clubs for a day visit:

1. Mahahual Beach

Mahahual Beach is a 5 minute taxi ride from the Costa Maya cruise port. This natural beach is great for cruisers who are looking for an inexpensive beach day. Check reviews for Playa Mahahual before you go, as occasionally sea weed can be an issue at this popular beach.

2. Maya Chan Beach Resort

The Maya Chan beach club is located approximately 4 miles away from the Costa Maya cruise port. Maya Chan Beach is popular with cruise passengers visiting Costa Maya for the day. You can book Maya Chan Beach as a shore excursion with the cruise line or opt to go on your own.

With soft sands, turquoise waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, it offers a tranquil escape from busy cruise ship life. You can unwind on comfortable lounge chairs, enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine, and even snorkel to explore the marine life.

Maya Chan beach is considered by many cruise visitors to be the best beach in Costa Maya, Mexico.

3. Uvero Beach

Located about 20-30 minutes from the Costa Maya cruise port, Uvero Beach is a more secluded beach option for cruise passengers. You’ll find soft sands and calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

4. Costa Maya Beach Clubs Near the Cruise Port

There are several beach day clubs nearby the Costa Maya cruise port. These include:

• Malecon 21 Beach Club
• Chunky Monkey Beach Club

An all inclusive beach club with an open bar can be booked with Resort for a Day.

Costa Maya Excursions & Things to Do

5. relax at swimming pool and loungers.

As you enter the Costa Maya cruise terminal, you’ll see a large resort style pool with a swim-up bar. Kids and adults are free to use the saltwater swimming pool and complimentary lounge chairs.

If you’re looking for an easy and fun way to spend the day in the Caribbean port, this is a good option.

6. Costa Maya Cruise Terminal Attractions

Within the Costa Maya cruise port area, you’ll find several attractions and cultural performances including:

7. Aviarius

Above the boardwalk area, you’ll find a trail of hanging bridges where you can encounter exotic birds. The tropical birds are beautiful and there are a lot of opportunities to take some good photos.

8. Papantla Flyers Dance of the Flyers

One of the most popular things to do at the Costa Maya cruise port, is to watch a performance by Paplanta Flyers. The Danza de los Voladores (Dance of the Flyers) is a traditional and artistic Mexican flying performance on that takes place on a very high pole within the central square of the cruise port.

9. Chacchobeen Mayan Ruins

Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chachobeen with a cruise line shore excursion or a local tour operator. When you meet your tour guide, you’ll board a bus that will take you over to one of the most interesting archeological sites in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins are located about 30 miles (50 km) from Costa Maya. The journey by bus or taxi is about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Cruise passengers should use caution to make sure that they are back to the cruise ship on time.

At the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, you’ll learn about ancient Mayan history and architecture, while exploring the Mayan temples. On site, along with a tourist shop, there’s a small taco and burrito stand that sold some inexpensive and delicious Mexican food.

Based on our own personal experience, this was one of my families’ favorite excursions and we found the Chacchobeen Mayan Ruins excursion well worth the price!

Tip: Bring mosquito repellant as you’ll be walking on trails through the jungle.

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

10. Dolphin Discovery

Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery, located minutes away from the cruise ship with the Costa Maya cruise port. A dolphin swim and dolphin encounter is offered. Photos are available for purchase as well.

There is a viewing platform at Dolphin Discovery where you can watch the dolphins interact with their trainers and people, as well as get a great view of the cruise ships.

11. Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park

The impressive Lost Mayan Kingdom Theme Water Park is visible from your cruise ship. This is a great way for families to spend the day in Costa Maya. Plunge down towering water slides, float along lazy rivers, and brave challenging obstacle courses. Don’t forget to take lots of photos and videos to preserve the memories!

12. Snorkeling Excursions

Book a catamaran or boat tour to explore the coastline, snorkel in pristine waters, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Shore excursions are available through the cruise line as well as through local vendors.

13. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving excursions allow visitors to view the vibrant marine life of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest barrier reef.

14. Bacalar – Seven Color Lagoon

Take a small group tour from Costa Maya cruise terminal to the Bacalar Lagoon, frequently referred to as the seven colors lagoon. This lagoon and cenote is gorgeous, with the most pristine crystal clear turquoise waters.

15. Water Activities

If you go to Mahahual or one of the other local beaches, you can participate in several water sports and activities. Kayak in the crystal-clear waters of a pristine beach, go fishing or paddle boarding.

16. Taste Local Flavors

There are some really good restaurants and bars, even the Costa Maya cruise port area. Try some traditional Mexican dishes or some well loved favorites (like nachos, salsa and guacamole).

You’ll find fresh juice, authentic Mexican chocolate, tequila tastings and more.

17. Souvenir Shopping

There are plenty of things to buy in Costa Maya, Mexico that are reasonably priced and make good souvenirs. Cruise travelers can shop on the main street or boardwalk in the small town of Mahahual, or simply shop at the boutiques at the cruise port.

Things to Buy in Costa Maya

• Handcrafted souvenirs
• Mexican chocolate
• Tequila and Mezcal
• Local spices and hot sauces
• Mayan inspired crafts and artwork
• Mexico t-shirts
• Handmade soap
• Jewelry/silver

Costa Maya Cruise Review

During our recent cruise to Costa Maya on Virgin Valiant Lady, we decided to do a day trip to Chacchobeen Mayan Ruins. We’ve been to Costa Maya cruise port on past cruises and wanted to explore this region beyond the man made cruise terminal.

We met our cruise sponsored shore excursion at the meeting spot and had a good 50 minute drive to the archeological site. The park guide showed us around the ruins and Mayan temples and explained about the ancient culture and people. While visiting, we saw spider monkeys in the trees above.

After touring for about 2 hours, we made our way back to the cruise port on a comfortable coach style bus. I was glad we did this tour in Costa Maya, as visiting other Mayan ruins sites like Chichen Itza is a far distance from this port, as well as Cozumel.

While we enjoy the popular Costa Maya cruise port, and they’ve done a great job making sure there are plenty of things to do near the cruise ships, it can get crowded. With 3 to 4 ships in port at a time, the swimming pool and lounge chair area is too busy for me. However, it might be a good port to visit in the morning. Then,head back and stay on the cruise ship while everyone else is in port !

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Walk from Costa Maya Cruise Port to Mahahual?

The distance between Costa Maya and Mahahual is approximately 2.3 miles (3.8 km). It will take about 45 minutes to walk into town. Taxis are readily available, and only cost a few dollars if you’re too hot or tired to walk.

Tip: On the way to Mahahual, you’ll come across a lighthouse. It’s worth stopping for a photo.

Where to Find Free Wifi at Cruise Port?

You can find free wi-fi all around the Costa Maya cruise terminal.

What is Costa Maya Known For?

Costa Maya is a popular cruise port and tourist destination located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, in the state of Quintana Roo. The cruise port is known for it’s amenities and activities designed specifically for cruise passengers.

In addition, Costa Maya is known for it’s beach and water activities, Mayan ruins, the small village of Mahahual, cultural performances, eco-tourism and shopping and crafts.

Is Costa Maya Safe?

Yes, Costa Maya is generally considered safe for tourists and cruise travelers. The Costa Maya Cruise Port area in particular is quite secure. Like all destinations, visitors should take the usual precautions to protect themselves from petty theft.

Related & Popular Posts

• 50+ Popular Cruise Essentials from Amazon
• 30 Best Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise
• 35 Best Things to Do in Philipsburg, St. Maarten on a Cruise
• 21 Most Recommended Things to Do in Grand Cayman
• 25 Best Things to Do in Bermuda on a Cruise
• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• 60 Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know

Final Thoughts on Costa Maya Cruise Port Things to Do

The Costa Maya is becoming one of the most popular cruise ports on Caribbean cruise itineraries. The Costa Maya cruise port is a gateway to beautiful beaches and cultural experiences in the Mexican Caribbean.

From an easy day spent by the pool at the Puerto Costa Maya cruise port to exploring ancient ruins, there’s a lot for cruise travelers to do while in Costa Maya, Mexico.

Have you been to Costa Maya on a cruise or are you going to? Please let me know your questions, tips or what you enjoyed in Costa Maya cruise port.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Best Beaches in Costa Maya Near Cruise Port: Top Picks for Cruise Passengers

If you’re planning a cruise to Costa Maya, chances are you’re looking forward to spending some time on the beach. Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful beaches near the cruise port that offer a variety of activities and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a beach with lots of things to do, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your day in port.

One of the closest beaches to the cruise port is Mahahual Beach. This long, sandy beach offers crystal-clear water and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. There are also plenty of beach clubs and restaurants along the beach, so you can grab a bite to eat or a cold drink while you’re there. Keep in mind that this beach can get crowded, especially on days when multiple ships are in port, so it’s best to arrive early if you want to secure a good spot.

If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, Uvero Beach is a great option. Located about 40 minutes north of Costa Maya Village, Uvero Beach is a secluded spot with soft sand and calm water. There are no beach clubs or restaurants here, so be sure to bring your own food and drinks if you plan to spend the day. This beach is also a great spot for snorkeling, so don’t forget your gear!

Beaches Near Costa Maya Cruise Port

Mahahual beach.

Mahahual Beach is the closest beach to the Costa Maya cruise port and is one of the best beaches in the region. It is a beautiful stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. The beach has many amenities, including restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. Visitors can also rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment.

Uvero Beach

Uvero Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located about 30 minutes from the Costa Maya cruise port. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and has calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding.

Maya Chan Beach

Maya Chan Beach is an all-inclusive private beach club located about 40 minutes from the Costa Maya cruise port . It is a beautiful and secluded beach that offers a wide range of amenities, including beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and drinks at the beach club’s restaurant and bar.

Tequila Beach Club

Tequila Beach Club is a popular beach club located about 20 minutes from the Costa Maya cruise port. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the area. The beach has many amenities, including beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and drinks at the beach club’s restaurant and bar.

Overall, there are many beautiful beaches near the Costa Maya cruise port that are perfect for a day trip. Whether you are looking for a secluded and peaceful beach or a lively beach club with lots of amenities, there is something for everyone in Costa Maya.

Activities and Amenities

Water sports.

Costa Maya is a great place for water sports enthusiasts. The clear, calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. You can rent equipment from various vendors on the beach, or book a guided excursion through your cruise line. Jet ski rentals are also available for those who want to speed across the water.

For a more relaxed water activity, consider renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. These options allow you to explore the coastline at your own pace and take in the stunning scenery.

Beachfront Dining

There are several restaurants and bars located right on the beach in Costa Maya, offering a variety of cuisine and refreshing drinks. Many of these establishments feature outdoor seating with beautiful ocean views. Some popular options include:

• El Faro Beach Club & Restaurant: Offers fresh seafood and Mexican specialties, as well as a swim-up bar.
• Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill: Serves up American and Mexican fusion dishes, along with a selection of cocktails and beer.
• Blue Reef Beach Club: Known for its delicious ceviche and tropical drinks.

Shopping and Souvenirs

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring back home, Costa Maya has plenty of options. The port area features a large shopping complex with a variety of stores selling everything from clothing and jewelry to local crafts and artwork. You can also find vendors selling handmade items and souvenirs on the beach.

Beach Clubs and Resorts

For those who want to spend the day in comfort and luxury, there are several beach clubs and resorts in Costa Maya. These establishments offer amenities such as private cabanas, pools, and spa services. Some popular options include:

Tips for Visiting

Getting around.

Costa Maya is a small port town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of the Mexican cruise port . However, if you want to venture further out, there are a few options:

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the port, and you can negotiate a price with the driver before getting in.
• Buses: There are local buses that run between the port and nearby towns like Mahahual. The buses are cheap, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.
• Car Rentals: If you want more flexibility, you can rent a car from one of the rental agencies near the port. Just make sure you have a valid driver’s license and insurance.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Costa Maya is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather is mild and comfortable, and there are fewer crowds. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher.

If you’re looking for a bargain, consider visiting during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is hot and humid, but you’ll find lower prices and fewer tourists, especially to visit Mayan Ruins near Costa Maya .

Safety and Security

Costa Maya is generally a safe place to visit, but like any tourist destination, you should take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Here are a few tips:

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
• Stay in well-lit areas and avoid unpopulated areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards, and keep an eye on your account activity.

About the author

I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest posts

What to Wear on a Boat

Sailing on a ship requires extensive preparation. In addition to understanding its components and how to operate it, people must also know what to wear on a boat.

What Happens if a Ship Loses Power?

A power outage is among the worst issues for maritime professionals. What happens if a ship loses power?

How Does Marine Fleet Management Work?

This guide discusses how marine fleet management works and the benefits and features of the ultimate marine fleet management solution.

7 Best Things To Do In Costa Maya Cruise Port + Port Guide

Welcome to Costa Maya cruise port!

The port of Costa Maya is located in the Yucatan peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo (Mexico), and is the only port in the Western Caribbean designed specifically for cruise ships. This beautiful port of call is known for its gorgeous beaches, a wide range of activities offered, and archeological ruins attractive not only to history buffs but to all visitors wanting to learn about Mexico’s rich historical and cultural heritage. In this Costa Maya cruise travel guide, read about:

• Costa Maya cruise port (Costa Maya cruise terminal, getting around the port)
• Top 7 things to do in Costa Maya cruise port and best shore excursions

Also read our cruise port guides for Belize , Roatan , Cozumel , Nassau , Labadee , Cococay ,  Antigua , Falmouth

Costa Maya Cruise Port

Costa Maya port (Puerto Costa Maya) is Mexico’s second-largest cruise port after Cozumel . It is located about 10 minutes ride from the small fishing village of Mahahual, and around 290 km (180 miles) south of Playa del Carmen and the island of Cozumel.

Resembling an authentic Mayan city, the Costa Maya cruise port complex is designed to suit the cruise ship passengers’ needs. Costa Maya cruise ship terminal can accommodate the world’s largest cruise liners (Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class) and has 4 berths in total.

If there are more than 4 cruise ships in port simultaneously, other ships will anchor and transfer their guests ashore via tender boats.

Once you exit the ship, a long flat pier takes you to the terminal building housed in an orange building. If you have walking difficulties or traveling with small kids, there is a free trolley service to take you from your ship to the terminal building. This is where you normally meet for shore excursions, and where you can book last-minute excursions if you wish.

The port complex features a wide range of facilities:

• Craft market where you can buy authentic handicrafts and souvenirs;  duty-free shops and internationally recognized brands including Diamonds International, Tanzanite International, Carpet Emporium, Del Sol, Havana Club offering premium quality cigars at affordable prices, Tequileria International with hundreds of tequila brands, and a few others.
• Poolside restaurants, beach bars, and cafes (seafood, fish and local specialties, grill) with live entertainment and amazing sea views.
• ATM (USD only)
• A massage center offering spa rituals and wellness treatments inspired by the Mayan civilization.
• Three swimming pools filled with salt water free of charge for the visitors to enjoy, with pool bars.
• Beach chairs and loungers are available on a first-come-first-serve basis, as well as restrooms, showers  and  changing rooms around the pool area.
• Dolphin Discovery Center offering dolphin interaction programs and shows is also located within the cruise port complex; a last-minute tour desk is located near the tour meeting location.

Getting Around Costa Maya Port

• Outside the cruise terminal area (there are two exits), you will find a large taxi rank, golf carts, bike/car/ATV rentals, local tour vendors, the Jade Maya Museum, a replica of a Mayan pyramid, and a few more facilities/places of interest.
• There is also a tour booth where you can get a shuttle transfer to Mahahual village for $5 per person each way, and the ride takes no more than 5 – 7 minutes. An alternative is to take a 30-minute walk from the cruise port to Mahahual.
• At the kiosk, you can also book tours, taxis/golf carts per hour, and various beach packages. Taxis will also offer private tours to the main tourist locations, but make sure you agree on the price beforehand to avoid inconveniences.
• Public transportation is available, but I do not think it is a good idea to experiment with the service due to the limited time in port and especially if you do not speak Spanish.
• Car rentals are also available inside the cruise port complex.
• The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN) and 1 US dollar equals approximately  16.80 pesos. I strongly suggest that you have small bill denominations for taxis and souvenir purchases and reconfirm in advance that your change will be given in USD.
• Spanish is the main language in Mexico, however, like in any major tourist cruise port, English is widely spoken.
• Major cruise lines sailing to Costa Maya Mexico include Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Oceania Cruises, MSC Cruises, Holland America Line, Virgin Voyages and Celebrity Cruises . Check the Costa Maya cruise ship schedules
• Check out Costa Maya tours and activities
• Search the best Caribbean cruise deals

Watch my YouTube video on the Costa Maya cruise port!

7 Best Things to Do in Costa Maya Cruise Port

1. mahahual beach & village.

This beautiful beach is located in the lively fishing village of Mahahual and is the closest one to the port. White powdery sands and a barrier reef make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling as the water is calm and crystal clear, so make sure you get your camera ready for turtles, stingrays and a spectacular coral reef!

Mahahual village is very safe and the beach is ideal for families and people of all ages. Along the beach, you will encounter local restaurants, bars, and beach clubs offering beach chairs, umbrellas, watersports, and fantastic service.

Most of the beach clubs have either a minimum spend or an open bar, and you should definitely check out Yaya Beach, Blue Kay, Ibiza Sunset, Pitaya Beach Club, and Pez Quadro. Local vendors and beach massage areas are also available, as well as other facilities including showers, changing rooms, and restrooms.

Besides the gorgeous sandy beach, Mahahual has several other spots of interest, such as the Faro de Mahahual lighthouse, and Mahahual Boulevard filled with countless shops, supermarkets, restaurants, and bars. Transfers and taxis from the Costa Maya cruise port to the beach cost around $5 USD per person each way.

Check out Mahahual tours and activities

2. Get a Cruise Port Pass

If you decide to stay around the port area, you can take advantage of this pass that gives you access to 3 port attractions:

• Aviarius (the Aviary) : Located within the cruise terminal area, the Aviary offers a unique opportunity to meet and feed the most beautiful and exotic birds in the Caribbean. This family-friendly experience offers amazing photo opportunities so get your camera and smiles ready!
• The Kakaw : Learn all about the importance of chocolate to the Mayans and tour around the chocolate factory – a great adventure full of flavors that you cannot miss!
• Tequila Museum : Learn about the production process of the famous Mexican tequila before tasting some of the best tequila brands.

Cruise port pass tickets can be obtained through the cruise line or at the tour desk on the pier. The port pass also includes 3 complimentary drinks at one of the bars located close to the port pools.

3. Lost Mayan Kingdom Waterpark

Located only a few minutes’ drive from the port of Costa Maya, this amazing theme park inspired by the ancient Mayan culture of Mexico offers unforgettable adventure for the whole family!

Those in search of adrenaline can enjoy the crazy water slide rides and hit the thrilling zip lines across the jungle, while those looking to relax can go floating on a river rube through the jungle-lined lazy river or relax on a hammock by the pool. Children can have fun at pint-sized slides and mini pools at the Monkey’s Island kids’ area.

The park has restrooms, changing rooms, showers, lockers (extra cost), a snack bar, and a souvenir shop. Round-trip transfers to the port are offered every 30 minutes.

Tickets for the Mayan Lost Kingdom can be purchased through the cruise line, the last-minute tour desk on the pier, or directly at the entrance of the park. Some of the activities are not suitable for guests with disabilities or special needs.

4. Chacchoben Ruins

Located in the south of Quintana Roo state, approximately 70 km (43 mi)/50-minute drive from Costa Maya, Chacchoben Ruins are the most popular ancient ruins in the Costa Maya region.

Also known as the Land of the Red Corn, this 3,000-year-old site was once an important pilgrimage place for the ancient Mayans. Learn about the rich history and the importance of this site, and admire the big ceremonial temple known as Gran Basamento.

There are several ways to get to Chacchoben ruins , including renting a car, taking a taxi, or booking a guided tour. The ride takes between 50-60 minutes, subject to traffic. Chacchoben ruins are probably one of the few accessible Mayan ruins in Mexico.

Check out Chacchoben Ruins tours and activities

5. Dzibanche and Kohunlich Mayan Ruins

Do not miss the opportunity to visit the ruins of these two Mayan civilizations lost in the jungle close to the Belize border. There are two archeological zones within the same area: the Archeological Zone Dzibanché – Kinichná, and the Archaeological Zone of Kohunlich.

5.1 Archeological Zone Dzibanché – Kinichná

Dzibanche is said to be the first capital of the Kaan Dynasty, also known as the Snake Dynasty and the center of social and economic activities for the local population. Within the same archeological zone, in the heart of the jungle, you can also visit Kinichná ruins located approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) from Dzibanche. The complex is dominated by a huge two-level pyramid that you can climb and admire the spectacular views of the lush rainforest and surrounding pyramids. There are usually no crowds as the place is off the beaten track.

Both Dzibanche and Kinichná belong to the same archeological zone and the admission ticket includes access to both sites.

Check out ancient Dzibanche and Kinichna tours 

5.2 Archaeological Zone of Kohunlich

Kohunlich archeological complex is the largest Costa Maya ruins that consists of mainly residential buildings and palaces. The archeological site is impressive and known for the beautiful stucco masks of the Sun God that decorate the central staircase of the Temple of the Masks. If you wish, climb the 27 steps up to the top of the acropolis for great views over the jungle, or walk through the ceremonial plazas, the ball court and another structural group.

Kohunlich archeological site is larger and it takes at least 1 hour to visit it and walk around. The area is beautifully preserved, with tall palm trees and monkeys that you can spot high up on the trees.

Explore Kohunlich archeological site tours

Useful tips if you are visiting Mayan ruins

• It is recommended to visit both archeological zones (Archeological Zone Dzibanché – Kinichná and Kohunlich archeological zone) on the same day, as they are located 45 minutes drive from each other. Both archeological sites are located around 2.5 hours from the Costa Maya cruise port.
• There is no cell phone signal and the roads are really bad, so be mindful of that in case you decide to come on your own. Make sure you bring insect repellent as there are many mosquitos, as well as water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. It can also be very hot, so bring your hat and sunglasses (Suggested article: What to Pack for a Cruise – Top 55 Cruise Essentials )
• Due to the distance, the best way to explore the ruins is through an organized shore excursion from the cruise line that includes entrance fees and normally provides a packed lunch box so you can maximize your time on site.
• If you choose to take a taxi, you should agree on the price with the driver in advance, as it all depends on the number of people taking a tour. Taxi drivers normally offer private tours and expect to pay around $80 per person for a round-trip transfer (they won’t take you for a one-way ride). A good alternative might be to rent a car , however, be careful because the roads are in extremely poor condition.

6. Bacalar Lagoon

Take a trip over to Bacalar village and cruise through “The Lake of the Seven Colors”, the second-largest natural body of fresh water in Mexico. This multicolor freshwater lake is fed by underground sinkholes or “cenotes” and a white sandy bottom that gives the effects of the different hues of blue. A truly fantastic place to visit and a great location for snorkeling, swimming and other water activities!

Bacalar is located approximately 91 km/56 miles or a 1 hour 15-minute drive from Costa Maya. The best way to get here is through an organized shore excursion from the cruise ship. However, if you are more of an “on your own” person, then my suggestion is to check with the tourist information center for reliable tour companies and packages to this amazing place.

Explore Bacalar Lagoon tours from Costa Maya Cruise Port

7. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Costa Maya is known for its second-largest coral reef in the world which makes it a perfect destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Banco Chinchorro , an unspoiled reef atoll, is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and boasts incredible scuba diving and snorkeling. It faces Mahahual Beach and is home to turtles, crocodiles, catsharks, pink snails, and rich marine flora and fauna.

This is the only place in the world where you can swim with crocodiles in the wild, so make sure you bring your best waterproof camera as you will want to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment!

• Explore Costa Maya snorkeling tours and activities
• Check out Costa Maya scuba diving tours

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

1 thought on “7 Best Things To Do In Costa Maya Cruise Port + Port Guide”

Ho w can you swim with crocodiles in the wild at the reef atoll facing Mahahual Beach near the cruise port at Costa Maya, Mexico without being attacked?

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

26 Must-Do Activities in Costa Maya During a Cruise Port Day

• March 19, 2024
• Cruise Ports

The Costa Maya Cruise Port offers an abundance of fun and exciting activities for a day in port. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural attractions, dolphin encounters, and the remarkable Chacchoben Mayan ruins, there’s something to captivate every visitor. But the question remains: how can you maximize your limited time in Costa Maya?

The Costa Maya Cruise Port combines adventure and relaxation on the Caribbean coast. The cruise port features pristine beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The area also has colorful lagoons and diverse flora and fauna, making you feel like you’re in a tropical Mexican paradise.

Are you looking for the top shore excursions and activities when your cruise ship berths in Costa Maya? My guide has top recommendations and tips to help you maximize your time in port. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or shop for souvenirs, this article has you covered. 

So please read on to learn how to plan your time in the beautiful port city of Costa Maya.

Overview of Costa Maya Cruise Port (Puerto Costa Maya)

Nestled in Quintana Roo on Mexico’s Eastern coast, Costa Maya is the perfect relaxation spot for cruise passengers. The resort has beautiful white-sand beaches, swimming pools, an aviary, and a marine park with dolphins. For culture buffs, Mayan ruins from this ancient civilization are relatively close. There are also snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities.

One of the charms of Costa Maya is its relatively undeveloped landscape. Unlike more commercialized destinations, there are no towering high-rises here. The heart of this tranquility is Mahahual, a small village enveloped by lush jungle. This fishing village, known for its laid-back vibe and picturesque beaches, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist areas. Designed for cruise visitors, Costa Maya’s port is a gateway to exploring natural beauty and Mayan ruins, ensuring a memorable experience.

Where is the Costa Maya Cruise Port?

Costa Maya is a popular cruise port in Quintana Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula and the coast of the Caribbean Sea. The Caribbean cruise port is located 4 miles (6.4 km) or a 10-minute drive from the quaint fishing town of Mahahual, which has just under 1,000 inhabitants. It’s one of the busiest cruise ports in the area.

Map of Costa Maya

Arriving at Costa Maya Cruise Port

Costa Maya cruise terminal features a T-shaped pier that can accommodate up to four cruise ships simultaneously. The walk from the pier to the terminal building is lengthy. However, there is a complimentary trolley service available for those who prefer not to walk. Unfortunately, many passengers report experiencing delays in catching the trolley, especially when three or more ships are docked at the port.

You cannot miss the spectacular cruise terminal building with its stunning Mayan replica door at the pier’s end. Inside the terminal, you’ll find ATMs, information kiosks, a shuttle bus to Mahahual, golf carts, and taxis. There is also the Tour Dispatch area and opportunities to book last-minute shore excursions.

Transport Around Costa Maya

Outside the cruise terminal are various transport options. If you want to spend the day at the beach in Mahahual, you can take a taxi, golf cart, or shuttle bus. The large car park at the terminal building also has buses for shore excursions.

Although you can hire a car, it’s not worth it as taxis are cheap, and booking a shore excursion is the best way to get to the Mayan ruins.

Most cruise passengers find walking the easiest way to get around the cruise port area. However, it’s best to use another form of transport to explore the surrounding area. 

Golf carts in Costa Maya are one of the most fun and unique ways to explore the local village. You can hire the carts for $60 to $75 for the day. This transport mode offers a quick journey to Mahahual, allowing you to explore its shops, beautiful scenery, and vibrant atmosphere. You can also rent the carts per hour.

It is best to book in advance to guarantee a cart’s rental. However, if you take the shuttle bus or taxi to Mahahual, you will find plenty of places to rent a golf cart.  

Several local taxi operators provide quick and cheap travel to Mahahual. Taxis from the cruise terminal offer set fares to the village costing $4. Prices are per person and are the same price as the shuttle bus. There are also plenty of taxis in Mahahual. All you must do is flag one down to get back to the cruise ship.

Agreeing on the taxi fare with the driver beforehand is always advisable. 

The shuttle bus from outside the terminal building is a popular way to get to Mahahual Village and spend a port day near the terminal. The bus costs $4 per person each way. 

Electric bikes

Electric bikes are another popular mode of transportation in Costa Maya. They provide a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the area without walking long distances or having the hassle of renting a golf cart. You can rent bikes from various vendors in the cruise port area and Mahahual village.

You’ll find a convenient pickup and drop-off point near the cruise port. The cost is usually $20 to $25 for the entire day. It’s best to book the bike beforehand to get the most out of the day. This way, you are guaranteed a bike, giving you the freedom to ride along the promenade (Malecon), visit shops, and relax on the beach.

Excursion transportation

Arranging a shore excursion is necessary to explore Mayan ruins, ancient civilizations, beach resorts, or the spectacular Seven Color Lagoon. You can either book in advance or find a last-minute excursion with one of the on-site tour operators.

Shopping, Eating, and Drinking at Costa Maya Cruise Port

There’s plenty to do at Costa Maya Cruise Port without venturing too far. The custom-built port area has free swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and a dolphin marine center. You can also treat yourself to a Shamanic massage or admire the flamingos.

Let’s look in more detail at fun ways to spend your cruise day at the cruise terminal.

Shopping facilities at Costa Maya Cruise Port

Costa Maya Cruise Port has a diverse range of shopping options. Some of the first shops you come across are craft markets selling souvenirs. Opposite these are the typical duty-free shops common in all Caribbean cruise ports. In Port Costa Maya, you may find the best deals on tequila and cigars from any of the Caribbean ports.

The port in Costa May also has the standard stores you have probably encountered in other ports. These include the following:

• Diamonds International
• Crown of Light
• Colleens Magnetic Jewelry
• Tanzanite International

ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.

Restaurants at Costa Maya Cruise Port

After disembarking from the cruise ship, you’ll find various dining options—from Mexican snacks and cuisine, to grilled food and international fare. Here are some of the top choices to sample delicious Mexican food in Costa Maya port:

Cantina Latina: Enjoy typical Mexican food like ceviche, tacos, nachos, and fish. They also serve international options. There is also a swim-up bar in the pool.

El Mero Mero:  This popular restaurant at the cruise port is known for its tasty Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Try traditional Mexican food, including tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and fresh seafood options.

La Tortillería: During your day in port, check out La Tortillería for a traditional dining experience. They specialize in freshly made tortillas with authentic Mexican spices, salsa, and local ingredients.

El Faro Restaurant: Located in the heart of the Costa Maya cruise port, El Faro is one of the best restaurants for its delicious grilled food, including lobster on the menu, and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

El Faro is also the name of the iconic lighthouse between the cruise port and Mahahual.

Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill: Although situated in Mahahual, this seafront restaurant is worth mentioning. It serves a fusion of American and Mexican cuisine, with dishes like burgers, tacos, and seafood. Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill is popular with locals and visitors alike. It always receives excellent reviews from its guests.

Bars at Costa Maya Cruise Port

Costa Maya Cruise Port is home to many bars serving Caribbean cocktails. You can choose from a selection of beach bars or swim-up bars if you want to relax in the large saltwater swimming pool.

Here are five of the most popular bars in the cruise port:

Expedition Bar: This is a popular spot for unwinding during your day in port. The bar features a laid-back atmosphere with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the tropical vibes.

Bar De Arbol: Known as Tree Bar, this popular place is ideal for relaxing with a tropical drink. Choose from delicious Margaritas, Pinas Coladas, Daiquiris cocktails, and a range of soft drinks. It’s located near the Aviary in the cruise port.

La Fruteria de la Villa: The La Fruteria bar in Puerto Costa Maya offers some of the most delicious cocktails. While soaking up the sun and looking at the Caribbean, you can enjoy cocktails made from fresh fruits, coconut, and natural ingredients. 

El Chaman: If you want to try “Mayan” cocktails made from traditional mezcal, El Chaman is the place to go. You can also choose from various beverages, such as margaritas, mojitos, and local Mexican beers.

Mojito Bar:  One of the most popular spots with cruise passengers at the Costa Maya Cruise Port is the Mojito Bar. This lively, colorful bar serves delicious cocktails with a tropical twist. Located right on the waterfront, this bar offers stunning views of the Caribbean’s crystal-clear waters and is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Mayan ruins.

Fun Activities at Costa Maya Cruise Port

If you decide to spend the day at the Costa Maya Cruise Port, there is plenty to do. What’s on offer near the cruise terminal? Please read on to find out.

Swimming pool

Costa Maya Cruise Port has a massive swimming pool. This free saltwater swimming pool is bordered by pool bars, loungers, and attractive palapa thatched shades. It’s easy to enjoy the entire day in the pool area without spending much money.

If you decide to spend the day at Costa Maya Cruise Port, buying a port pass is a good idea. Although the resort has a free swimming pool, the port has interesting paid-for attractions—La Consentida, Kakaw, and Aviaruis.

La Consentida Tequila Museum:  Learn about the history and production of Mexico’s most famous spirit, tequila. You’ll find out about the distillation and aging process that turns agave plants into this celebrated spirit. As a word of advice—don’t buy tequila with a worm. That’s a marketing stunt for tourists.

Kakaw Chocolate Factory: The port pass also gives you access to the Kakaw Chocolate Factory, ideal if you have a sweet tooth. This unique attraction allows you to learn about the history and production of chocolate in Mexico.

Aviarius Tropical Bird Aviary:  A great way to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy cruise port is to visit the Aviarius—the tropical bird aviary. You can view and get up close to a diverse array of colorful tropical birds. Learn more about parrots, macaws, toucans, flamingos, parakeets, and lovebirds.

Mayan Wellness Retreat Costa Maya

You don’t have to leave the port area to experience Mayan culture. The retreat offers a one-of-a-kind holistic experience that aims to restore and revitalize your positive energies. The six-step cleansing rituals are performed by a Shaman and include the following:

• Copal Cleansing
• Herbal Bath
• The Temazcal purifying ceremony
• Organic Clay Mask Ritual
• Coconut Bath
• Hammock massage

Dolphin Discovery

The Costa Maya cruise port includes Dolphin Discovery—a marine park where you can get up close to dolphins without leaving the port. You can interact with the friendly creatures—they will swim backward as you hold their fins, kiss you, and hug you.

Besides swimming with marine mammals, the attraction features shows that entertain visitors with dolphin acrobatics and aerial performances. Most visitors who interact with the dolphins say it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, never to be missed.

Watch the Dance of the Flyers

While spending time in the port, check out the spectacular performance of the Papantla Flyers. Known locally as Danza de los Voladores, this traditional and artistic flying performance will amaze you. During the performance, the flyers climb up a high pole, tie themselves to ropes, and spin while gradually spiraling toward the ground.

Seeing them gracefully gliding through the air while performing acrobatic moves is mesmerizing. This incredible display of skill and agility takes place in the central square of the port and is a must-see attraction for all visitors.

Best Costa Maya Beaches Near the Cruise Port

You can venture out of the cruise port to enjoy your day at one of the many beach clubs near Costa Maya . Most beach clubs allow you to book a day pass before your trip. This reduces stress when you arrive on the Yucatan Peninsula. Just check if they have a “no port, no fee” policy if the cruise schedule changes.

Hayhu Beach Club

Hayhu Beach is a high-end beach club offering a tranquil oasis away from the hundreds of cruise tourists at the port. The exclusive club is located 18 miles (29 km) south of Costa Maya and takes 30 minutes by car. However, a cruise day pass includes round-trip transportation from the Costa Maya Port. 

Depending on the package, facilities at the quiet, peaceful beach club include the following:

• Access to lounge and restaurant area
• Private shaded deck and dining area (VIP Package)
• Full bathroom and shower
• Free use of paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel equipment
• Kiteboarding (extra charge)
• Massage (extra charge)

Pez Quadro Beach

Pez Quadro Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located in Mahahual that is an excellent place to spend a peaceful beach day. It’s a one-mile stretch of sandy beach with shaded beach chairs, restaurant services, and beach massages. Day passes at the Pez Quadro Beach Club can include an inclusive menu with free drinks and one dish. Swimming, snorkeling, and bathroom services are also included.

La Bamba Beach Getaway

Relax in the Caribbean sun at the famous La Bamba Beach. The beach excursion takes you to a private, gorgeous beach 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south of Mahahual on a quiet road along the Costa Maya shore. The day includes a pre-paid taxi, signature cocktails, lounge chairs, and kayaks. This secluded private beach club also has a pool and beach volleyball club.

Maya Chan Beach Resort

The Maya Chan Beach Resort is a hidden gem 4 miles (6.4 km) south of Costa Maya. This secluded beach offers a tranquil and relaxing escape from the commotion of the cruise ship terminal—especially if four ships are in port. The day pass includes drinks, an all-you-can-eat Mayan buffet, snorkeling equipment, glass-bottomed kayaks, and round-trip transportation.

The Costa Maya beach is also surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and pristine white sand beaches, creating plenty of picture opportunities.

Playa Mahahual Beach

Playa Mahahual Beach is the closest beach for cruise ship passengers visiting Costa Maya. You can easily reach the beach by golf cart, shuttle bus, taxi, or electric bike. Although the beach is free, you must pay for a beach chair. However, there are excellent seafront restaurants and bars along the promenade. 

You can enjoy various activities at Playa Mahahual Beach, like swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking. But you may find that the beach gets crowded during cruise days. So, booking a day pass at a private beach club is the best choice if you are looking for peace and calm on a Costa Maya beach.

Fun Shore Excursions from Costa Maya

Plenty of fun, adventurous shore excursions are available from the cruise terminal, showcasing everything from the natural to the historical. Activities range from snorkeling and scuba diving in the pristine waters of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, to exploring ancient Mayan ruins nestled in the lush jungle. For those seeking a thrill, zip-lining through the treetops offers an unforgettable aerial view of the landscape, while ATV tours provide an exhilarating ride along the beach and through the countryside.

Continuing the adventure, kayaking in the calm waters or paddleboarding along the coast allows for a serene yet active experience. These excursions seamlessly blend the thrill of exploration with the serene beauty of Costa Maya’s natural landscapes, ensuring your cruise stop is an adventure-filled day to remember.

Snorkel or scuba dive at the biosphere reserve Banco Chinchorro

The Caribbean waters off Mahahual are among the best in the Mexican Caribbean for snorkeling and scuba diving. Banco Chinchorro is a UNESCO site and the largest coral atoll in Mexico, consisting of three islands. You can marvel at coral reefs, colorful fish, sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins here.

For Scuba Divers: Experienced scuba divers have the unique opportunity to explore the underwater marvels of Banco Chinchorro, including its famous shipwrecks. With nine known shipwrecks in the area, divers can embark on an extraordinary journey through history and marine life. These wrecks, now part of the sea’s ecosystem, provide a habitat for numerous marine species and offer an unforgettable diving experience. It’s advisable to book your diving excursion with a reputable operator that can provide all the necessary equipment and guidance for a safe and memorable adventure.

For Snorkelers: If you’re not a certified scuba diver, fret not. The crystal-clear waters of Banco Chinchorro are also perfect for snorkeling. You can effortlessly float above the reefs, enjoying the spectacular underwater view teeming with marine life. Snorkeling tours are available, offering a chance to experience this aquatic wonderland up close, with options suitable for every skill level. These tours often include equipment rental, making it easy for everyone to partake in this amazing activity.

Practical Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: The best months for diving and snorkeling in Banco Chinchorro are from May to September, when the water is the clearest and the sea conditions are most favorable.
• Conservation: As a UNESCO site and biosphere reserve, it’s vital to respect the environment. Avoid touching the coral or disturbing the wildlife.
• Booking Tours: Opt for tours from Mahahual, as they offer comprehensive packages that include transportation, equipment, and expert guides.

Diving or snorkeling at Banco Chinchorro is not just an activity; it’s an experience that stays with you, offering a blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Many tourists rate diving or snorkeling at Banco Chinchorro as one of the best experiences on the cruise.

Spend a day at Mayá — Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park

The Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park is one of the top shore excursions within walking distance of the Costa Maya Cruise Port. This thrilling water park is ideal for spending a cruise day with kids. They will love the variety of water slides, swimming pools, zip lines, and other water activities.

All the rides are based around the Great Pyramid, which looks like an ancient Mayan Temple. Also, the park is surrounded by lush Mexican jungle. The water park is located a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. However, you can usually order transportation with your cruise line or get a taxi from outside the terminal. 

Book a catamaran excursion

Sailing on a catamaran is one of the most popular activities when spending a day in Costa Maya. Many day excursions include food, drink, and a choice of snacks or food. 

The Caribbean coast of Mexico is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities, largely due to the stunning beauty of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. This reef is the second-largest barrier reef system in the world and a haven for a diverse array of marine life. Snorkeling adventures along this barrier reef allow you to get up close with a wide variety of tropical marine life, such as snappers, jacks, angelfish, and queen triggerfish. You may even encounter turtles, manatees, or dolphins.

You can book the shore excursions through your cruise line or with a local tour operator outside the terminal building.

Marvel at the ocean on a glass-bottom boat tour

Spending a few hours in a glass-bottom boat is a fantastic way to appreciate the crystal-clear waters in the Caribbean. The boat excursions let you see an exotic range of tropical marine life without getting wet. However, snorkeling adventures are also on offer if you want to dip in the sea and explore the ocean floor yourself. 

Many tour operators include bottled water, snorkel gear, and time to relax at the beach before returning to the cruise ship. 

Have fun on an ATV adventure excursion in Costa Maya

Why not explore the Costa Maya’s jungle and beaches on an ATV? An ATV adventure excursion is a great way to see the sights and experience the thrill of off-roading through rugged terrain. You get to drive through beautiful mangroves, drive on stunning beaches, and stop off at sightseeing spots along the way.

The best ATV shore excursions include fajitas or tacos, Mexican beers or non-alcoholic cold drinks, and time at the Costa Maya beach. The best thing is that the start-off point and return destination are only a five-minute taxi ride from the cruise port.

Sightseeing and Cultural Excursions in Costa Maya

Costa Maya, located on the Caribbean coast in Mexico, is famous for more than its stunning white sand beaches. It’s full of vibrant Mexican culture and rich history.  Many shore excursions occur in spectacular Mayan ruins that showcase an ancient civilization. Also, the famous Bacalar Lagoon is an hour’s drive from the cruise port.

Here are some of the best things to do in and around Costa Maya during your cruise day. 

Visit Mahahual

One of the highlights of the Costa Maya cruise port is exploring the charming fishing village of Mahahual. You will enjoy strolling along the promenade (Malecon), browsing the colorful shops, and soaking in the village’s laid-back atmosphere. You can then stop off in one of the many beach bars to enjoy Mexican street food and authentic cocktails.

Many cruise visitors walk along the Malecon to the lighthouse at the village’s north end.

Mahahual Lighthouse (Faro de Mahahual)

Located at the start of the promenade in Mahahual is the Mahahual Lighthouse. This historic landmark offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding area. For a small admission fee, you can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and role in protecting sailors at sea.

Fun fact: The lighthouse is the most southerly lighthouse on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. 

Take an excursion to historical Mayan ruins

A 50-minute drive from Costa Maya are some of Mexico’s most stunning archaeological sites—the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins. Visit these places for a fascinating cultural experience and learn about Mayan civilization.

Plenty of tour operators offer shore excursions to these archaeological wonders. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to explore these Mayan ruins with significantly fewer visitors compared to more crowded Mayan sites near Cancun, such as Chichen Itza or Tulum, offering a more serene and personal encounter with history.

Chacchoben Mayan ruins

The Chacchoben Mayan ruins are the most accessible archaeological site from the cruise port.

The ruins at Chacchoben are a vast Mayan settlement dating from 200 BC. The ruins include four grand temples or pyramids, including the Temple of the Vessels and Gran Basamento. One of the temples is still overgrown with vegetation. You can climb the ancient pyramids and wonder at the Mayans’ architectural skills.

The lush tropical rainforests surrounding the Chacchoben Mayan ruins are just as stunning. As you walk the circular path in the forest, you may encounter spider monkeys, armadillos, deer, and howler monkeys. 

This day trip includes a guided tour and may also include a visit to the nearby Seven Color Lagoon. You should plan at least four hours to explore the ruins.

Quintana Roo is also home to other ruins from the Mayan civilization. However, these are five-hour round trips, and it’s doubtful you will have time to take in these archaeological wonders. Here’s a short description of the ruins:

Dzibanche ruins: Located in the southern part of Quintana Roo, the Dzibanche ruins feature several prominent pyramids—the Cormoranes pyramid and the K’inich Na’ Pyramid. There is also the well-known Temple of the Lintels. Tourists rarely visit the site, but it offers a more tranquil and immersive experience for visitors, and anyone interested in ancient civilizations.

Kohunlich ruins: The ruins at Kohunlich are mainly unexcavated, but you can visit the ruins of several temples on the expansive site. The archaeological ruins show evidence of citadels, courtyards, pyramids, and plazas. There was also a water collection and drainage system.

Bacalar Lagoon

Also called the Lake of Seven Colors, the Bacalar Lagoon is a stunning shore excursion when visiting Costa Maya. The beautiful lagoon is located about an hour’s drive from the cruise port. It offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place to spend the day.

The best way to visit the Bacalar Lagoon is to book a shore excursion beforehand. The stunning inland freshwater lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear waters, which showcase seven shades of blue. You can go swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding, which provides one of the most peaceful and tranquil ways to immerse yourself in the lagoon’s beauty.

It’s important to note that, due to the distance and range of activities on offer, a visit to the Bacalar Lagoon means you won’t have time to explore Mahahual near the cruise port.

Here are other excursions you can plan while spending the day in the Bacalar Lagoon area.

Boat, pontoon, or catamaran tours are available around the lagoon to explore its various cenotes and mangroves. These water excursions last one to two hours and may include food and drinks.

Swim in Cenote Azul

The lagoon is home to several cenotes—natural, water-filled sinkholes. Cenote Azul is 300 ft. (91 m) deep, giving it a deep blue color. Due to its depth, it’s also a popular location for scuba diving. At Cenote Azul, you can relax on the surrounding wooden swings and take Insta-worthy photos. 

Discover stromatolites

The natural wonders of Bacalar Lagoon continue when you find stromatolites. These fossilized structures are over 3.5 billion years old, making them the oldest living lifeforms on the planet. The lagoon is one of the few places on Earth where you can find them.

Bacalar Fort

Known as Fuerte de San Felipe, Bacalar Fort is a historic fort near the lagoon. Built in the 18th century, the fortress protected the town from pirate attacks. Guided tours can help you learn more about its history. Additionally, its position at the edge of the freshwater lake means you get spectacular views over the lagoon and surrounding forests.

Explore downtown Bacalar

Downtown Bacalar boasts a charming, quaint atmosphere, featuring colorful buildings, local shops, and restaurants serving delicious cuisine.

You can stroll through the Bacalar’s streets to admire the architecture, shop for souvenirs, and sample traditional Mexican cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local specialty—marquesitas. This dessert, native to Yucatan, is a sweet crepe filled with Edam cheese, chocolate, cajeta, or jam.

Costa Maya Cruise Port FAQs

Here are some questions many cruise ship passengers ask before docking in Costa Maya.

Which cruise lines dock in Puerto Costa Maya?

The Costa Maya cruise port is one of the most frequented in the Western Caribbean, with over 500 cruise ships docking in a season. A wide range of cruise lines include Puerto Costa Maya in their Caribbean itineraries, among them Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, and Princess Cruises. In addition to these, many other major cruise lines also make stops at this vibrant port, offering travelers diverse options for exploring the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historical sites of the area.

Is there free Wi-Fi in the Costa Maya cruise port?

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal and cruise port area. In Mahahual, many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi if you need to upload your cruise holiday snaps. You are best to log on to an internet hotspot in the village rather than paying the hefty charges on the ship if you need to upload photos.

Is Costa Maya Cruise Port safe for travelers to walk around?

The cruise port in Costa Maya is safe for cruise passengers. The locals are generally friendly; although some sellers can be pushy. However, politely saying no once or twice is usually enough to deter them. As with any unfamiliar place, exercising caution and being aware of your surroundings is always good advice.

Can I walk to the beach from the Costa Maya cruise port?

Walking to the Costa Maya beaches in Mahahual from the cruise port is possible. However, it takes 40 minutes to walk the 2 miles (3.2 km) to the village. Therefore, most cruise passengers take a motorized form of transport, which only takes 10 minutes. And with the taxi fare only $4 per person, it’s worth getting the taxi or shuttle bus—which also costs $4. 

What’s the closest beach to Costa Maya cruise port?

Mahahual Beach is the closest beach to the cruise port area in Costa Maya. From the north end of the village, you can walk just over a mile from the lighthouse (Faro de Mahahual) along the beautiful beach or the Malecon (promenade). You can find various beach facilities, cafes, and beachfront bars along the walk. 

What language is spoken in Costa Maya?

Spanish is the official language of Mexico and the primary language spoken in Costa Maya. However, most locals working in bars, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops also speak English. It’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Spanish.

Do cruise ships dock, or is Costa Maya a tender port?

Cruise ships can dock simultaneously at Costa Maya. The purposely built cruise port has a T-shaped pier. Therefore, cruise ships do not tender at the port. It’s good to note that the pier’s length is 1,115 feet or 0.2 miles (340 m). However, a free trolley can take you to the cruise terminal. 

How many ships can dock at Costa Maya?

The pier at Costa Maya has berths for up to four large cruise ships. 

Can you use US dollars in Costa Maya, Mexico?

You can use US dollars throughout your stay in Costa Maya, even though the Mexican Peso (MXN) is the local currency. It is important to note that the peso also uses the $ sign. Therefore, always check if the listed prices are MXN (sometimes, MX or Mex$) or US dollars.

Be aware that although most vendors accept US dollars, they may give you change in pesos. So, it’s always worth checking beforehand what type of change you’ll get.

One peso (1 MXN) is roughly the equivalent of 5 cents (USD).

What is the best time to visit Costa Maya?

The best time to visit Costa Maya is during the dry season , typically from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the region’s attractions. Summer in the Caribbean is characterized by high humidity and temperatures in the low 90s Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). 

Try to avoid the hurricane season , which runs from June 1 through November. You may get better deals on Caribbean cruises. But your port schedule may be disrupted due to high winds or heavy rain.

Is it OK to haggle with local vendors?

Haggling is common in many parts of Mexico, including popular tourist destinations like Costa Maya. However, always do this respectfully and politely. It’s also good to avoid allowing vendors to put items in your hands to hold. It’s been heard that some unscrupulous sellers refuse to take the item back and insist you pay for it.

Does Costa Maya have a seaweed (sargassum) problem?

Like other Caribbean coastal regions, seaweed can occasionally accumulate on beaches. Seaweed season in Costa Maya is typically late spring through summer. However, local authorities regularly remove sargassum to keep the beaches clean for visitors.

There is also an anti-sargassum barrier to help reduce the amount of seaweed in the shallow waters beside the seashore.

However, the severity of the seaweed problem can fluctuate due to weather patterns and ocean currents. Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check with recent traveler reviews or local sources for the most up-to-date information on seaweed conditions.

Related articles:

• Cruise Ports in the Western Caribbean You Should Visit
• Caribbean Cruise Destinations You Should Visit
• Eastern vs. Western Caribbean Cruises: Which One is Better?

Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

Independent Quest: Maps and Guides for Travelers ™

Costa Maya (Mexico) Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)

Everything you must-know about Costa Maya cruise port: the terminal; things to do, shore excursions; Mahahual beach, Mayan ruins, and more ...

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: May 26, 2023

Many passengers on a cruise to Puerto Costa Maya (in Mexico) choose to stay at the cruise port terminal without realizing that there is much more to do and many attractions to enjoy nearby.

• How to explore
• Where is Costa Maya
• Where cruise ships dock
• Shuttle bus
• Cruise terminal
• Top things to do

Beaches and beach club day passes

Mahahual beach and village.

• Shore excursions (Shorex)
• Must-know: tourist info, language and currency
• Safety, emergencies, and basics

Because the Costa Maya area is so sparsely populated , the local port authorities developed along the last decade an excellent cruise terminal with all services and amenities for passengers, lots of entertainment, bars, restaurants, pools, and great shopping.

But the Costa Maya cruise port is also the gateway to the lovely beaches of Mahahual and spectacular Mayan ruins like Chacchoben, Kohunlich, Dzibanche, and Kinichná.

Mayá, the Lost Mayan Kingdom Theme Waterpark, is within walking distance of the cruise terminal in Costa Maya, and the Maya Chan Beach (an all-inclusive private beach resort) is a 20-minute drive south. These attractions are between 2 miles (3.2 km) and 100 miles (160 km) from the cruise port terminal.

Costa Maya is a major cruise port of call in the Western Caribbean itineraries during the Fall-Winter season, with as many as 1.5 million passengers and over 500 cruise ships visits in 2019.

The cruise port in Costa Maya has a very appealing character. The port area is neat and well maintained. On the whole, Costa Maya is very safe . The local population is very friendly but not pushy and speaks English reasonably well. For those cruising with families, there are lots of things to do . Cruise passengers with disabilities or with walking difficulties will find it easy to wander around in Costa Maya on their own.

How to explore Costa Maya on a cruise

Cruise passengers wishing to discover famous Mayan Ruins like Chacchoben should look into booking shore excursions, be it with your cruise ship or with local tour operators. For those who want to enjoy an all-inclusive beach, it is advisable to book a day pass.

But you can easily travel on your own (by taxi, golf cars, or an affordable shuttle bus) to the Mahahual Village, where there is a long beach with lots of activities, bars, and restaurants. Keep reading to learn more about Mahahual.

Within walking distance of the cruise pier, there is a run-down but intriguing Mayan Museum and, of course, all the attractions in the Cruise Terminal. There are three possible ways to discover and enjoy a day at the cruise port of Costa Maya:

• Book a Shore Excursion
• On your own by shuttle, taxi or golf car
• On foot around the cruise terminal

Where is Costa Maya cruise port

Bathed by the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Costa Maya is on the East coast of the Yucatan peninsula near the south border of the Mexican State of Quintana Roo with Belize. The cruise terminal is close by the village of Nuevo Mahahual (with a tinny population of 920) Cozumel cruise port is 128 miles (206 km) to the north, and Belize City cruise port is 77 miles (144 km) to the south.

Other popular cruise ports in the Western Caribbean itineraries are also within a night sail away from Costa Maya, such as Roatán , 182 miles (293 km), Harvest Caye, 158 miles (255 km), and Grand Cayman 420 miles (675 km).

Where do cruise ships dock in Costa Maya?

Photo courtesy of Trelleborg group

Ships dock on a medium-size cruise purposely built port with T-shaped piers and quays for up to four cruise ships to moor. Whatever you decide to do, all cruise travelers will have to pass by the terminal building unless you stay onboard.

Pier - Costa Maya

Photo © IQCruising.com

The entrance to the terminal with its massive Mayan replica door at the end of a perpendicular pier to the coast is impossible to miss. At a 90 degree angle to this pier is what used to be the primary docking pier.

Free trolley at the pier

The perpendicular pier to the coast is rather long. However, there is a free trolley for those with walking difficulties or not willing to walk, which is particularly convenient if cruising with young children.

Pier Trolley - Costa Maya

The pier trolley travels on a continuous loop . But you should be prepared for a bit of a wait if four mega-ships are in port, which only seldom happens. The pier trolley must not be confused with the shuttle , which runs between the cruise terminal and Mahahual.

What's in the cruise terminal

Services and amenities

As you get close to the entrance to the Terminal, you will see the Tour Dispatch area and a late minute tour desk to book an excursion if you haven't booked one already.

Cruise passengers will also find in the terminal many activities, diverse entertainment, and shopping (more about all these below). And the following services and amenities:

• ATM (US dollars only)
• First aid and pharmacy
• Information kiosks
• Shuttle bus to Mahahual

Shopping and attractions at the cruise terminal

Once inside the terminal, shops are the first thing you will come across. On the left-hand side, craft markets sell all sorts of souvenirs. On your right, the typical duty-free shops you would expect in any Caribbean cruise port, such as the ubiquitous Diamonds International and its sister Tanzanite International.

Diamonds International Shop - Costa Maya

But there are also well-known Mexican stores selling Tequila or Boots like Veari and Rogers Boots. Cruise tip: cigars and tequila are the best buy (quality/price) in Costa Maya.

Dolphin Discovery - Costa Maya

The Dolphin Discovery , with pools where shows and swimming with the aquatic mammals are the main features, is among the top attractions in the Costa Maya cruise terminal.

Terminal Swimming Pool - Costa Maya

The already mentioned large saltwater swimming pool bordered by pool bars is a major highlight of the cruise terminal. But there are also many other attractions such as:

• Callejón del Sapo: traditional market, bars and restaurants
• Aviarius: hanging bridges trail with exotic birds
• Kakaw: chocolate factory and tasting
• La Consentida: tequila museum and tasting
• Papantla's: traditional artistic flying show
• Mayan Healing: pre-hispanic rituals and spa
• El Faro (restaurant): grilled food with sea views
• Flavors of Mexico (restaurant): traditional mexican dishes
• Cantina Latina (restaurant): mexican cuisine in a party atmosphere
• Cafe Mexico: mexican coffee products
• La Fruteria: natural juices and fruits

Local Transportation, tours, taxis, buses and golf cars

The terminal has two exits into a large parking area - this is where shore excursions tour buses do park. But it is also where you will find other local transportation.

A local tourist booth offers different packages for Mahahual's beach clubs, including umbrellas, lounge chairs, showers, all sorts of water sports, and, obviously, bars (some serving light fares as well).

If none of these packages appeal, or if you just want to spend a couple of hours at the beach in Mahahual , it is pretty easy to get on the shuttle , take a taxi or a golf car to look around Mahahual before deciding where to lay your towel and what to do.

Shuttle Kiosk - Costa Maya

In this large parking area, you will also find a shuttle bus to Mahahual ($3.00 per person each way), taxis (around the same price per person), and Golf Cars (starting at $30 per hour) if you wish to explore the area on your own. Although the golf cars may not be available in the parking area of the cruise terminal, check this link - Mayahual Golf Carts - to double-check availability and eventually book an alternative golf car rental.

What's outside the cruise terminal

There is only one exit out of the gated cruise terminal's parking area. The gates open into a street with a central pedestrian corridor lined by buildings, which not long ago had a bustling activity.

Road Outside Terminal - Costa Maya

Unfortunately, in 2007 and 2012, two hurricanes devastated Costa Maya, and these buildings are still waiting for restoration. Cruise passengers booked with online tour operators will meet their guides along this street outside the gated area of the cruise terminal.

The Mayan Museum is also on this street (on the right-hand side). This small free museum has a rather shabby entrance, but the interior displays interesting jade exhibits and historical boards for those wishing to learn more about this pre-Columbian civilization..

Jade Sculptures at the Museum

Right after the museum, there is a taxi stop and a Mayan pyramid replica that many cruise visitors like to climb for a photo memory . Some cruisers and staff say that the taxi stand rates are better at this stop than at the terminal but the Editor hasn't found this to be 100% accurate.

Taxis Outside the Terminal - Costa Maya

Things to do in Costa Maya cruise port

Besides the wonderful Terminal, Puerto Costa Maya (as it is known by locals and cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity) is one of the ports in the West Caribbean itineraries that offers a great variety of experiences.

Mahahual Beach is very close to Costa May cruise port

For those looking to enjoy a relaxing day basking in the sun, there are pristine beaches ; and if more into active pursuits, snorkeling, scuba, catamaran sailing, fishing or jet skiing are available.

Chacchoben Temple, a top attraction in Costa Maya

Photo credit: Chacchoben Ruins

A couple of spectacular Mayan ruins are highlights close by - in particular Chacchoben . If cruising with children cruise passengers can enjoy zip line courses and water slides at the Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom Theme Water Park, close by.

Photo courtesy of Mayá Park

After almost two years without cruise visitors (while the cruise industry was forced to suspend operations), the Costa Maya cruise port is again one of the most visited ports in the Western Caribbean Itineraries.

During those two years, attractions didn't vanish, and there is a lot to look forward to on a cruise calling at Costa Maya for the day. Here are the top things to do on a cruise to Costa Maya:

• Stay and relax at the cruise terminal. Enjoy the party atmosphere around the saltwater swimming pools with swim-up bars, go on a shopping spree, or bargain hunting for tequila, vanilla, and local spices.
• Swim with dolphins. In the cruise terminal, the "Dolphin Discovery" dolphinarium offers two interactive programs - the Dolphin Swim Adventure and the Dolphin Encounter. Activity time: 45 minutes to 1 hour. Prices: bewteen US$69 and US$109.
• Explore Mahahual beach: one of the nicest and most affordables places to enjoy a relaxing day on your own, the beach in Mahahual is dotted by beach clubs, bars, restaurants and all sorts of water-sports. Distance from port: around 2.3 mile (3.8 km). Visiting time: as long as you feel like. Keep reading this review to learn more about Mahahual. How to get there: shuttle, taxi, golf cars
• Discover the Chacchoben Mayan ruins. built in the eighth century AD, Chacchoben was a vast Mayan settlement with a Great Plaza, four grand temples, the Gran Basamento (used for religious ceremonies), the Temple of the Vessels and pyramids among other archaeological wonders. Distance from port: around 43 miles (69 km). Visiting time: around 4 hours.
• Bacalar Fort and Seven Colors Lagoon. Top attractions: boat ride to Isla del Los Pajaros and Pirate Channel (Canal de Piratas), Spanish Fort (Fuerte San Felipe Bacalar), Cenote Esmeralda, Cenote Cocalitos, and Black Cenote. How to explore: On a shore excursion, between $80 and $120 per adult including meal); on your own by taxi, around $40 . Distance from port: around 56 miles (1 hour by car). Visiting time: up to 6 hours including travel.
• Relax with a beach day-pass: there are numerous resorts and beach clubs south of the cruise port to enjoy; some can only be booked through your cruise line or online excursion services, but there are other that can be booked directly. Keep reading to find out more about all beach day-pass available in Costa Maya cruise port.
• Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom: the theme adventure water park offers great thrilling attractions such as the twisty zip coaster, along with 12 other zip lines, adrenaline-packed water slides, tubing, swiming pool, restaurants and bars. Distance from port: around 0.5 mile (800 meters). Getting there: on foot, small shuttle buses (trollies) from the cruise terminal. Check maya-park.com the theme park official website for more information.
• Taste local flavors: the cruise terminal has great places to taste local flavors but if you want to have a more genuine experience, it is in Mahahual that you will find the best restaurants, bars and beach grills to savor typical mexican delicacies.
• Kohunlich, Dzibanche and Kinichná Mayan Ruins: frequent cruisers that have been in Costa Maya repeatedly and visited Chacchoben, should look into booking an excursion to one of the three other Mayan ruins close to Costa Maya cruise port.
• Enjoy watersports and sightseeing: Cruisers who enjoy water activities will have the opportyunity to enjoy diverse watersports such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, river tubing, rafting, fly fishing or stand-up paddle boarding. If you enjoy sightseeing, there are many ways of doing it:glass bottom boat, catamaran sail, segway adventure, scenic cycling ride, off road ATV adventure, 4X4 scenic safari, dune buggy beach drive.

The pristine beaches south of the port are natural top attractions for cruise passengers wondering what to do in Costa Maya. Cruise lines, local tour operators and online excursion services offer all types of beach break pakages and many shore excursions combos with the main highlights of Costa Maya.

The beach clubs offered by cruise lines are exclusive and you do not have access to these unless booked throught your cruise ship. Here are the ones used by the major cruise lines:

• Beach Escape Club
• La Bamba Beach Club
• Uchbenkah or Uchben Kah Eco Park
• Uvero Beach Club

Reputable online shore excursion services and local operators also offer beach day passes but to different clubs. Here are the ones you can book with online services:

• Barefoot Beach Club
• Big Mama Beach Club
• Blue Kay Resort
• Ibiza Sunset Beach Resort
• Los Arrecifes
• Maramao Beach Club of Hotel El Fuerte

Finally, cruise visitors that prefer to explore ports independently or on their own can book day-passes directly with the following resorts and clubs (links ordered alphabetically):

• Almaplena Beach Resort
• Hayhu Beach Club
• Maelcon21 Beach Club
• Maya Chan Beach Resort
• Maya Luna beach resort
• Pez Quadro beach club of 40 Cañones Hotel
• Xahuayxol Beach Club

Adventure, thrilling and fun activities

Besides the top things to do already mentioned, cruise travelers who enjoy adventurous fun will have the opportunity to enjoy diverse activities in a variety of shore excursions, such as:

• Stand-up Paddle Board
• River Tubing
• Fly-Fishing at the Bacalar Flats
• Scenic Rafting Experience
• Off-Road ATV adventure
• 4X4 scenic safari
• Dune Buggy Beach Drive

Sightseeing and cultural excursions

Last but not least, cruise passengers who prefer sightseeing and more contemplative pursuits also have a lot to choose from with shore excursions, such as::

• Glass Bottom Boat
• Catamaran Sail
• Segway adventure
• Scenic cycling ride
• Salsa Cooking and salsa dancing

Mahahual Beach - Costa Maya

If planning to go to Mahahual , it is good to know that the northern area is the nicest but the most crowded. By contrast, at the southern tip of the beach, the ocean is very shallow and not as inviting. Cruise tip: regardless of how you plan to get to Mahahual, head to the middle section of the beach.

Malecón Mahahual - Costa Maya

Parallel to the Ocean and bordering the sand, there is a main pedestrian 'road' - the Malecón Mahahual . This is lined on the land side by bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, a couple of hotels, water sports shops (fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, catamaran, jet skiing and so on); and one of the Editor's favorite bookshop in the Caribbean where no-shoes and no-shirts are welcomed.

Bookshop in Mahahual

On the beachside of the Malecón, the cruise passenger will find one beach club after another with chairs, umbrellas, bars, and water sports. Some also offer massages. At the northern tip of the beach, there is a Señor Frogs .

You should have in mind that Mahahual is a very, very laid back sort of beach and that no one is in a rush to offer any service in this small village. Cruise tip: join the flow (or lack of) and look at leisure for whatever you feel like doing with no pressure.

Costa Maya shore excursions and tours

As much as there are lots of nice and easy things to do on your own when calling at the port of Costa Maya, all cruise lines and independent local tour operators offer excellent cruise excursions , which cruise passengers should consider.

Water-slide - Costa Maya

Photo courtesy of Mayan Lost Kingdom

Typical tours like the ones exploring the Mayan Ruins of Chacchoben or Kohunlich are a must - the first can also be combined with beach time. A Beach Break is also combinable with a Catamaran Sail, Snorkel, Dune Buggy, Paddle-board or a Segway Tour. Scuba is available for both beginners and certified divers. At the Mayá the Lost Mayan Kingdom you can enjoy the excitement of a two zip-line course, the fun of water-slides or relaxing by a pool.

Scuba Diving - Costa Maya

Photo by management

Obviously, all cruise lines offer many and diverse shore excursions in Costa Maya. Celebrity Cruises offers as many 48 shore excursions and Royal Caribbean has 43 cruise excursions . Carnival lists 32 shore excursions . Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has available 26 shore excursions . Oceania Cruises organizes 19 shore excursions , Holland America offers 19 cruise excursions , and Princess has 19 excursions available.

Besides the cruise excursions organized by cruise liens, there are also shore excursions and tours offered by the following reputable private online services:

• Shore Trips
• Shore Excursions Group
• Shore Excursioneer
• Costa Maya Cruise Excursions
• Tours by Locals

Local tour operators

There are many local tour operators not affiliated with the top online services. Although the following have received excellent reviews, none are in any way affiliated, endorsed, or approved by IQCruising:

• Toucan Tours
• Costa Maya Adventours
• Tequila Beach Tours
• The Native Choice

Tourist info and language

Tourist info.

There isn't an official Tourist Information kiosk in the cruise terminal. However, the cruise port authority kiosks provide excellent information for those wishing to explore Costa Maya independently.

Spanish is the official language. However, as in any major tourist cruise port, English is widely spoken.

Safety, US travel advisory and basics

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Mexico see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Covid-19 advise for cruises to Costa Maya (Mexico)

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Mexico and Costa Maya visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico . For more Traveler's Health advice to Mexico see the CDC Website .

Costa Maya Basic Info at a Glance

Share this Costa Maya port review

The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursions of Costa Maya. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

Submit a Correction / Suggestion.

• Terms of Use
• Legal & Privacy

© 2023 • INDEPENDENT QUEST LLC • Florida - USA. All Rights Reserved Duplication in part or whole without prior written consent is prohibited by international laws.

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

The Full Guide to Visiting Costa Maya (Mahahual) on a Cruise

Seemingly overnight, the port of Costa Maya has become a popular cruising destination. What was once a sleepy fishing town (and in many ways still is), now sees some of the biggest ships in the world, sailing to the port from everywhere from Galveston to Miami.

Still, for many people Costa Maya is largely unknown. Unlike ports that have been popular for years — such as nearby Cozumel — the word isn’t quite out yet on where to go, where to eat, and what to do.

That’s why we recently traveled to Costa Maya to bring you more details of this growing destination. What follows should provide more insight into the port and what you can expect from your visit during your cruise.

Costa Maya Overview

Situated about halfway between Cozumel to the north and Belize City to the south, Costa Maya has quickly become a favorite of the cruise lines, and for good reason. Its location near already popular ports mean that the cruise lines can add the stop to their itineraries without adding much time or fuel expense to the trip.

Meanwhile, cruise passengers get a spot to explore that’s off the beaten path and only easy to visit via cruise ship. That sort of remote location provides a destination that’s a world away from other ports.

From here, you can hit the beach, explore Mayan ruins, or stroll the walkway that runs through nearby Mahahual… and more.

That said, despite its location, it’s likely that when you visit you won’t be alone. The port of Costa Maya offers several docking spots on its pier, giving the ability for multiple ships to dock at the same time (we’ve been in port with as many as four ships in port). While there are quieter times, don’t be surprised if the port is busy during your call.

Costa Maya can be thought of at two different areas. First is the port area, which is referred to as Costa Maya. As described below, this area is built specifically for cruise tourists. The second area is the town of Mahahual. This sleepy village on the coast is essentially connected to Costa Maya and is a touch of more authentic Mexico.

The Costa Maya Port Area

As mentioned, the port complex at Costa Maya was built specifically for cruise passengers. In our opinion, that’s both good and bad.

Walking from your ship, the pier goes directly to the port area. There is no way to not pass through. The port feels much like a theme park in that it’s designed like a caricature of a Mexican village. If you are looking for authentic, this is not the place for you. However, if you want an easy and comfortable way to spend the day, then the port is perfect.

You’ll be greeted by tour guides offering up excursions if you haven’t booked something to do already. But what you’ll also notice is that in the port complex there is tons offered, including shopping, restaurants, swimming with dolphins, and more.

Don’t worry, you’ll get a chance to see everything as the was designed to be a bit of a maze. Trying to exit takes you in a half circle the entire complex… and then back around for another walk through an outer ring shops. In total, it can take between 10-15 minutes just to get through the area when trying to exit as quickly as possible.

That said, there is an amazing amount of things for cruise passenger to do and see if they stay in port. For instance, there are restaurants and bars available in the port area. There is a massive swimming pool (with a manmade sand beach with loungers) that is free to use for those who are buying food/drink.

There is a spot to swim with dolphins (for a charge), an area to get a massage, pink flamingos that you can get a picture in front of, and tons of shops selling everything from chocolate to souvenirs.

If all this sounds like it was designed to keep you entertained without ever leaving, then you’d be right. You can do practically anything you can do in other ports, all within the relatively small area.

Notably, there is not a spot to swim in the ocean within the Costa Maya port.

If you prefer your visit to Mexico to be a little more authentic, then you can head into the town of Mahahual. Getting there is simple and you have several choices. You can walk — it’s about 45 minutes to the beach — or catch a cab. During our visit, the cost was $4 per person for the taxi ride, and it’s well worth it. You can find taxis at the exit of the Costa Maya cruise terminal. As well, you can rent a golf cart for around $60 per day (there’s a rental booth at the port exit as well).

On port day, the town’s beach comes alive and rolls out the red carpet to cruise passengers. A wide malecon runs from the lighthouse down through town. On one side is the beach, and on the other is a lineup of restaurants, small shops, and stores eager for your business, as well as lots of other tourists exploring the city. (Want a massage? You’ll find a ton offered on the beach for just $20 per hour.)

The town itself is decidedly a beach town; there isn’t a lot more to do in Mahahual than to shop, have a bite to eat, enjoy a drink, and hang out on the shore. For instance, you won’t find things like jet-skis or parasailing like you do in Cozumel. Instead, while it can be busy, it definitely has a more relaxed and “sleepy” vibe than other port cities.

Where to Find a Beach in Costa Maya/Mahahual on a Cruise

Of course when you’re in this part of the world, then you likely have beach on your mind. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to find a spot to just sit and relax in the sand.

First, as for the beach itself, it can be hit or miss. If you’re expecting a wide, sandy beach with crystal water, that’s not the case. In this part of the country, the shore is a mix of white sand and rock. So it can be a little tough to find that classic “postcard worthy” beach.

Still, they are around. The other issue is that they might be taken up by a restaurant or hotel offering beach service. While beaches in Mexico are public, many restaurants and hotels have put out loungers and umbrellas for their guests — seemingly making it a “private” beach. So that means you don’t want to just see an open lounger and plop yourself down. Still, you are allowed to enjoy the beach itself even if you aren’t a customer .

Our suggestion? There’s no beach access from the Costa Maya port, so head into Mahahual. From there, you can walk the street until you find a spot you like at a restaurant. Head over, order a few drinks of lunch and enjoy the time at the beach. 

Costa Maya Excursions

What do you do in Costa Maya? There are a variety of options, including just hanging out in the port or heading to Mahahual. However, there are a number of excursions you can take from Costa Maya that will make for a memorable day.

Maya Chan Beach Just looking to relax? Maya Chan is your best bet. The small all-inclusive day resort is located about five miles south of the cruise port. Here you can sit on the beach in your own reserved palapa while the attentive waitstaff brings you drinks. When it’s lunch time, you are served a simple, yet delicious Mexican lunch. From there you can head out to kayak, snorkel, or just work on your tan. Maya Chan is the highest-rated thing to do in the area, and for good reason. You can read our full review here .

Kohunlich Mayan Ruins No, it’s not as big or well-known as Chichen Itza, but that can be a good thing. Kohunlich (pronounced Co-Hoon-Leech) sits in the middle of the Yucatan jungle, about an hour to an hour and a half from Costa Maya. Here, you can explore the 1500-year-old ruins without fighting large crowds or walking all day like larger sites. As well, you can still climb some of the structures. It’s a must for any history buff.

Bacalar Lagoon About an hour drive from Costa Maya, Bacalar Lagoon stretches roughly 30 miles to almost the border of Belize. Here the water is clear and the bottom of the lagoon is sandy, leading to an electric blue that has to be seen to believed.

There are several excursions here that can take you tubing the lagoon or swimming at the lagoon and nearby cenotes. If you’ve never explored the natural beauty of the secret swimming spots dotted around the Yucatan, it’s a must do.

Costa Maya Restaurants

Hungry? Like with the entire area, you have two options — eat at the port or head into Mahahual.

The port area has a number of restaurants for tourists, including El Faro (a lobster grill that sits right on the beach) and Cantina Latina (Mexican food and cold beer underneath a large palapa).

For more options, you’ll want to go into town where you’ll find the following ideas.

Jaime’s at the Blue Reef This isn’t a restaurant in the traditional sense. It’s more of an all-inclusive spot. However, it’s been voted the #1 restaurant in Mahahual. Sitting right on the beach, for $57 per adult you get all you can eat and drink, as well as beach chairs, palapas, and snorkel equipment. The menu is heavy on seafood, but there is something for everyone. As the place only takes in 35 people, you’ll want to book ahead of time via the website .

The Krazy Lobster Beach Club & Grill Sitting on the walking path that cuts through Mahahual, The Krazy Lobster seems to be a magnet for cruise passengers. For one, it’s highly-rated, coming in at 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor . As well, it’s large and directly on the beach.

So you can come and order food and drinks, and then there is everything that you need for a day at the beach. They offer loungers, lockers, umbrellas, and even wi-fi and kayaks. The menu is classic Mexican beach fare that ranges from lobster (of course) to guacamole, tacos, ceviche, and more. Perhaps one big draw? Beers costs only about $3.

Pizza Papi There is no shortage of beachfront restaurants serving cold beer and seafood. But pizza? Believe it or not, Mahahual has a highly rated pizza spot — Pizza Papi . Here, your pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven. If you don’t want pizza, there are other Italian favorites as well. The spot is funky (we’ve seen it described as a mix between Bob Marley and Day of the Dead), with live music playing in the evenings. To get there, you go into the main town, not the beach — so that means you won’t be dining with a ton of other cruise passengers.

Cruise Tips & Things to Know About Costa Maya

During our visits to Costa Maya, we’ve learned a few things that could be helpful for your cruise.

Taxi Costs Are Consistent – $4 per person Want a ride from the Costa Maya port into Mahahual? Taxis are everywhere both at the port and in town, and the cost seems to be a consistent $4 per person for the 5-10 minute ride between the two spots. Just ask the price before you hop in. If they quote you more, find another cab.

Free Photo Ops in Port and in Town If you want a way to remember your stop, be sure to get a souvenir photo in front of the Costa Maya sign located right where the pier meets the port. There is also a Mahahual sign near the lighthouse. It’s a free way to remember your trip that you don’t want to miss.

Don’t Miss a Visit to the Lighthouse If you head to Mahahual, be sure to check out the lighthouse that sits at one end of the walkway through town. It’s a great spot for a photo, and it also offers a nice view back toward the ships. To our knowledge, however, you can’t climb up to the top.

What to Know About Beach Access It’s discussed above, but remember that beaches in Mexico are open to the public. Unfortunately, restaurants and hotels often “take over” the area with their loungers, tables, and facilities. So it can make some segments of the beach seem like they are off limits. You can find an empty spot, but most people simply visit a restaurant for lunch and then use the beach facilities while there. Also remember that in many places the shore can be rocky.

Be Prepared for a Crowded Port We will be honest that Costa Maya can get busy! Our last visit included four ships docked on the same day, meaning roughly 15,000 cruise passengers in port at once. The port area in particular was tightly packed, but Mahahual itself was also very busy. Just know that while this port is out of the way, it’s still a major destination for cruise ships.

The Nearby Waterpark Is Closed From the ship you’ll be able to look inland and see a recreated Mayan temple standing high above the trees. This was the main tower for the Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom waterpark . It was just a short distance from the port and a great option for families with water features, ziplines, and more. Unfortunately, the park closed during Covid and has yet to re-open. 

Want a Deal? Check Out the Tiendas for Snacks and Drinks On the way in between Costa Maya and Mahahual you’ll pass by a number of small convenience stores selling snacks, sodas, and beers. These are a great for picking up some munchies to bring back to the ship for cheap. And while you can’t bring beers back on the ship, you can get one to enjoy in port for just a buck or two. 

Have specific questions about sailing to Costa Maya? Let us know in the comments below.

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 13 fun cheap (or free) things to do in costa maya on a cruise, 27 fun things for cruise passengers to do in costa maya, 16 useful tips and advice for costa maya, 15 comments.

Do you have any idea how much are taxi ride from costa maya port to Bacalar ? One way or round trip ? Is it easy and fast to get or find a shared van from costa maya going to Bacalar ? How about from Bacalar back to cruise ship in costa maya port , is it easy to get a taxi ride from Bacalar ? Thank you so much

Sorry, no idea. But I would love to visit myself!

Hi, do you have any idea what they are charging roughly for a taxi to Bacalar in MXN? I’ve been told it’s standardized but can’t find a chart online anywhere.

Is there a restaurant with wrestling

Not that I know of, but if you find a restaurant there with live wrestling… I know where I’m headed.

Hi , we are going to mahahual cruise terminal and we would like to visit chacchoben ruins . I don’t find any car rental company What’s the best solution to get to the ruins and what price ??? thanks in advance Pat

We’d definitely check into a cruise ship excursion. They will take care of the driving and handle the tour. Not sure who you are cruising with, but you should find their excursion list for each port online.

Are their lockers in the cruise port for rent while swimming in the pools

Yes there are. You can find them by the restrooms. We aren’t sure about the cost, however.

How often do the trolleys to and from the port run? Is there any concern with catching one to get back to the port?

They run quite often. And if not, there are taxis everywhere. There’s no shortage of ways to get back to the ship.

Great article. Is there a shuttle from the ship if you have a difficult time walking distance

Do you mean heading down the pier? We didn’t see anything, but also weren’t looking for it specifically. There’s no doubt that there will be some option for limited mobility passengers. It’s a common issue on cruises.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Price Hike: NCL Boosting Soda & Coffee Package Prices Up to 27%

Hurricane beryl: here’s the potential impact on cruises, are you ready for the cruise muster drill here’s what to know…, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

• Work with Us
• Destinations

What to Do In Costa Maya Mexico Instead of an Expensive Shore Excursion

After almost three years I recently had the chance to return to Costa Maya. Why was I excited? Costa Maya has always been one of my favorite cruise ports in the Western Caribbean.

A stop at the Costa Maya cruise port is a great excuse for anyone to eat good local food and simply relax on the beach.

If you’re going to Costa Maya on your cruise, lucky you! By the time you’re finished reading this article, you’ll know why it’s one of my top Caribbean cruise ports . 

And you’ll learn how to save money here, too.

Best Things to Do In Costa Maya, Mexico

In This Post...

You don’t have to spend a lot of money.

In this article, I’ll explain how to spend a really great day in Costa Maya without buying an expensive shore excursion.

Puerto Costa Maya (the port’s official name) and the nearby sleepy town of Mahahual was once a rural fishing village. It wasn’t until 2002 that this region was transformed into the popular cruise ship destination. 

Costa Maya was the first “manufactured” cruise port in the Caribbean, but the infrastructure didn’t last too long. In 2007, Hurricane Dean had a devastating impact in the area. Costa Maya cruise port was closed for a little over a year. 

Finally, Costa Maya reopened and the port complex has been growing ever since.

Where is Costa Maya, Mexico?

When your cruise is going to Costa Maya, most people wonder, “where is it and what’s there to do when I get there?” Actually, a lot of people haven’t even heard of Costa Maya, Mexico. Or they’ve heard the name but have no clue what to do there.

Situated along the turquoise-colored Caribbean Sea, Puerto Costa Maya (Costa Maya cruise port) and its nearby towns rest between the sea and the deep jungle.

Geographically speaking, Costa Maya, Mexico is located on the Yucatan peninsula, near the southern border of Quintana Roo, one of 32 Mexican states. 

What to Do in Puerto Costa Maya Instead of a Shore Excursion

Cruise lines offer full-day and expensive shore excursions to visit the incredible Mayan pyramids, dolphin encounters or snorkeling. That’s great if you want to spend time on a motor coach.

Then there are the on-site tour operators who greet cruise passengers as they enter the port, hoping to pick up some last-minute business. These hard workers offer many of the same excursions as the cruise lines.

When I’m in Costa Maya, I just want a really good lunch and a cold drink. Followed by a couple of hours lounging in a beach chair or floating on a mat in the ocean.

Here’s how to do exactly that, save a bundle of cash and have one of the best port days ever. Head over to the town of Mahahual and its beautiful beaches.

How to Get to Mahahual Beach from Costa Maya Cruise Port

Directions from the cruise ship complex to the transportation area has changed over the last few years. As of this update, here’s how to get to Mahahual and the beaches on your own.

Walk (or take the free tram) along the lengthy pier from your ship to the port’s colorful entrance. Don’t hesitate to hop aboard the tram if it’s really hot outside. The walk is longer than it looks! 1.   After you pass through the Costa Maya entrance, follow the pedestrian path as you enter the bustling cruise recreation and shopping complex.   You know you’re on the right path as you pass the grand staircase on your right.

Update:  This little breezeway path behind the stairs is now closed.  

You can’t “cut” through behind the stairs anymore to the taxi and transportation area. Now you have to walk past a zillion shops and snack bars until you come to the beautiful pink flamingoes.

Look to Your Right, Across from the Flamingoes

2.   There are of course more shops.   But what’s special about Amorino is that it’s the quickest (and maybe tastiest) shortcut to the transportation area out of the cruise complex!

Be polite as you cut through the shop and maybe promise to stop on your way back for a creamy gelato.

3.   Once you’re on the other side of Amorino’s, you’re getting closer to the taxi and rental area.   Plus you’ve avoided at least another dozen shops that try to lure you inside to buy.

PRO TIP:   Some of these locally owned shops have wonderful items, including unique turquoise and sterling silver jewelry, so plan to have some time to browse or shop on your way back to the ship.

4. Here’s what you’ll see as you approach the taxi area.   Yes, you’re in the right place…it’s undergoing some improvements so don’t mind the appearance. Keep walking…

Here’s where you can rent a golf cart or hire a taxi. The trolley and/or shuttle are currently not operating, at least not when I was there.

Take a Taxi or Golf Cart to the Beach

You can take a $8 taxi ride (that’s per taxi for one or more people) to anywhere in Mahahual. Or you can rent a golf cart for the day.

The current rate for a golf cart is $60 for a four-seater or $80 for a golf cart for 6 people for the entire day.

The golf cart rental company employees are wearing red shirts, thus the company name, Red Shirt Golf Carts!

A reader recently emailed me that you now need to make a reservation if you want to rent a golf cart! You can Google them and call Mayahual Red Shirts Golf Cart rentals to reserve your golf cart.

5.   Take a taxi to 40 Canons/Cuarenta Cañones/40 Canones.

Tell whomever is driving that you want to go to 40 Canons Hotel or in Spanish, simply, Cuarenta Cañones. It’s a 10-15 minute ride until you reach the last stop at the end of the road. The town is actually Mahahual.

The driver will stop at the entrance to the hotel. Enter the whitewashed breezeway at 40 Cañones and walk towards the beach. You can’t miss it.

And Then There’s This – 40 Cañones Beach Club

and this…

Spend the day on the beach – there are several beach clubs along this stretch of promenade. All charge a fee.

Pez Quadro , the Beach Club at 40 Cañones, has an All You Can Drink package that also includes a meal, wifi and lounge chair for $122 per person. 

There’s also an all you can drink non-alcoholic package with the same amenities for only $45 per person. That’s a bargain price for sure. The food at the hotel is excellent.

Also a Lobster meal and open bar day pass for $167. 

Where I Prefer to Eat Lunch

Personally, I always go to the outdoor dining area at the hotel for a fabulous lunch. At 40 Canons you can choose Italian or Mexican. The owners are Italian and serve traditional Italian meals.

I love the shrimp fajitas. Guacamole is awesome, too…everything there is good. A full lunch with a drink will run from $12 to $30 depending of course if you order a fresh-caught lobster or a cheese quesadilla.

If you go with the Pez Quadro Beach Package, one dish is included in the rates.

After lunch, I like to take a walk along the promenade then head back to the hotel and the beach club.

You’ll find the beach and town quiet, peaceful and pretty much undeveloped.

When it’s time to head back to your ship (be sure to allow at least a full hour) just walk back to the road through the hotel. Taxis are usually available, but leave enough time just in case you have to wait.

As you drive back to Costa Maya (for a short distance it’s a different route) look for these rainbow-colored cabanas.

Once back at the cruise port, just follow the crowds out towards the pier. You can buy any last minute souvenirs from the hundreds of stalls and shops at the complex. Or that gelato I mentioned earlier!

Too tired to walk? Take the complimentary trolley back to your ship.

Seriously….You Could Have This…

Or You Could Have This…It’s Your Vacation

The beautiful beaches of Costa Maya, Mexico. One heck of a cruise port!

PIN AND SHARE TO YOUR FAVORITE BOARDS!

You’ll Also Love

Never Ever Book a Stateroom in These Locations

A Week in Southampton with an Air BnB Vacation Rental

Best Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise Day in Port

Eleven Extraordinary Europe Cruise Ports You Don’t Want to Miss

Three Overlooked Ways to Pass the Time on Sea Days

Do You Need a Passport for an Alaska Cruise

82 comments.

Hi Jennifer, thanks SO much for your positive feedback. Much appreciated. I’m so glad that you enjoyed your stay in Costa Maya and especially at Pez Quadro! And thank you for taking the time to write about your experience after your cruise. Happy cruising! Sherry

We just followed you plan for Pez Quadro a few weeks ago and it was perfect. The cabs were easy to find, the beach was great and the food was delicious. Thank you so much! We are going on the same cruise next year and will do this again.

I’ve been in Costa Maya once on a cruise to see the Mayan ruins. If I were on a ship that stopped there again, I’d probably stay on board.

Hi Whitney, Thank you for your glowing comment…really made my day! While the Mayan ruins certainly are interesting to see, sometimes you just need to sit on a beach and relax. I totally get it! Thank you for signing up for my newsletter, too. I hope to get an Icon of the Seas review asap. Happy travels and Cheers to the pina colada! Sherry

Hi cruise maven! Im not really into things like this but i read your article (above) for about 3 minutes and thought, oh my goodness this is the kind of right to the point with specific information I need and what she says….she gets ME. You hit the nail on the head. Mayan ruins …. great if you want to sit on the bus but I want to be on the beach drinking a beer or pina colada, with my wife snorkeling or swimming or doing nothing in a bathing suit! Thanks for being here and I will pay attention. FYI, next cruise is the Icon of the Seas, November, 2025 (we just got back from a Caribbean cruise in December) Hopefully by then you will have some feedback about the Icon of the Seas or its sister ships. I signed up for your newsletter and …Thanks again!

Hi Anita, Yes, I was there late last year and updated the post to reflect the changes I noticed that happened since 2018. I hope I did not miss anything that also needed an update.

Have you been back here since 2018?

Hi Penny, Thank you for reading my article and taking the time to ask your question. It all would depend on the amount of time that your Mayan ruins tour lasts. So without knowing that information, all I can suggest is to allow 45 minutes each way from cruise complex to Pez Quadro, based on taxi availability. How much time you plan to spend in Mahahual is up to you of course. Thanks again and have a terrific cruise and day in Costa Maya.

how much time does it typically take to do this? We would like to do this after visiting the mayan ruins.

Hi Bill, I’d check with your ship’s shore excursions – they’ll have all the other types of things to do besides eat. Thank you for your question and reading my article. Have a great trip!

Hi Kathy, Thanks for reading my article. I’ve never known it to be necessary to reserve at Pez Quadro, but if you’d like to ensure a space, you can reserve a package on their website at https://www.pezquadrocostamaya.com/ . If you’re not interested in a package with lunch and/or alcohol, then you could just walk up and, unless everyone on your ship is there, I would like to think that you could pay when you get there. Have a wonderful day in Costa Maya! And thanks again for reading the article.

Hi Sherry thanks for the information on Costa Maya. Do you know if you have to have a reservation for the beach club next to the hotel, or can you just walk in? Our ship doesn’t dock until 1 pm so I’m not sure what we will want to do since it will be getting dark around 6.

i’D LIKE TO DO MORE THAN EAT! Any info on snorkleing, swimming, etc?

We will be in Costa Maya in June. We were told to rent a golf cart and go to the end of the road an check out several of the beach locations as we head back. They have always felt safe there and said the experience is great. Have you tried this? We do have a golf cart reserved but want to make sure it’s a good option before we get there. Excited to explore!

Hi, Sorry to read about your unfortunately experience in Costa Maya. I don’t know what cruise line or hotel was included in your shore excursion, but it sounds awful. You should have been told to wear water shoes at the beach as the shore line can be very rocky and have shells. As for the military showing up, it’s not uncommon. In fact, the other day I heard there was some trouble in Mahahual, so that could account for the police presence.

I hope you brought your complaint to the shore excursion staff and hopefully received a refund or onboard credit. Mahahual is a quaint fishing town with some good restaurants and beach-y hotels.

Thank you for sharing your experience.

I was in Costa Maya a couple weeks ago. If you do not leave the Port it is beautiful. However, we chose to leave the port and take what they called the “beach excursion”. We had been to Belize the day before so were excited to visit the beaches at Costa Maya. DON’T !!!! It cost us $80 a piece to go on the “beach excursion” and I have to tell you it was terrible. We took a tour bus, best part of trip. On the way to the beach there was not but run down buildings and garbage everywhere. When we got to the “resort”, there were old mattresses and garbage all around. The smell well it was horrible. However, we were stuck there, tour bus could not return to ship. So here we are stuck there! We walk inside and the sea grass and rocks were so horrible that you couldn’t get in the water if you wanted to. But I wouldn’t have wanted to anyhow because you have to PAY to use the bathroom. So you know the people that were going in the water were going for one reason. The vendors aggrevate you until you just can’t take it anymore and lose your cool. I had the same lady ask me 7 times if I wanted my hair braided. My hair is 2 inches long. NO NO NO I don’t. I finally had to get rude. It was free drinks all day ! The menu said the drinks had alcohol in them but the did not ! I was to afraid to try the food that the place was just nasty ! When we were finally able to LEAVE the beach. We saw trucks with guys in the back of them with face mask and machine guns. We that can’t be safe! In conclusion, for now, stay away from Costa Maya!

Hi Brooke, Thank you for reading my article about Costa Maya. Yes, shopkeepers and taxis will gladly accept US dollars. In fact, that can give you a little bit of a bargaining point when shopping. Be sure to have small bills, too. I hope you have a wonderful time!

Thank you for your helpful post! I have a question about paying for a taxi and the entrance fee to 40 Cannons. Do they accept US Dollars for payment or do we need to use pesos? Also, ca we use dollars to purchase items from the tourist shop?

Hi Sallie, Thank you for reading my article and taking the time to ask your question. I was in Costa Maya a few months ago and did not see any bicycle rentals at the cruise complex or outside of it. If it was me, even if there were bicycles to rent, I would not rent one. But that’s my personal opinion. Once you get to Costa Maya and leave the cruise complex, you may see bike rentals, but again, I did not. Enjoy Costa Maya whatever way you choose to explore and spend the day. Have a fun cruise!

Thank you for the informative blog on what to do in Costa Maya. I will be there in March with my two grown children and am wondering if there is a good bike rental option (instead of golf cart or taxi) located near the cruise ship landing.

Hi Fernando, Thank you very much for taking the time to recap your experience. I’m really happy to know that everything worked out as planned. I’ve eaten at the hotel many times and have not been disappointed. I’m not a big fan of shrimp, so I have ordered other dishes and none have disappointed. Costa Maya, in my opinion, is just a relaxing day at the beach, away from the over-crowded cruise center and not spending hours on a motor coach. I’m glad it worked out for you. Thanks again for your comment. Much appreciated.

Had a fun time with the family today. Instructions were easy to follow and made everything seamless. A few notes from my experience…. hailing a cab can be a bit caotic as they are not that organized. Also, not sure what changed but today they were charging $4 per person per trip to go to 40 canones. Perhaps not exactly a surprise but path to and beaches were not really clean which was sad to see. I hope the locals can straighten things up a bit to enhance the experience. By the way I did look for trash cans at the beach and there were none found where we were. Dining at 40 Canones was good but not great with rustic and well priced food. Bottom line it was still an awesome experience and we would do that again in a hearbeat. The local feel at the beach was great. Definetly a better and much cheaper uption than the excursions sold by the cruise and others.

Hi Kim, Thank you for the update. I’ve added the Mayahual Red Shirts info to the article. Thank you very much for taking the time to let me know so I can update the info. Enjoy the rest of your cruise!

Good morning. We are currently in costa Maya and I just wanted to bring it to your attention that the golf cart rental have to have a reservation.

Hi Janice, Thank you SO much for your kind words. I’m really happy that my directions to the taxi area, short-cut and more were helpful to you. I have to agree that I’d rather spend a day at 40 Canons than take a shore excursion in Costa Maya…or spend the day anywhere else! They have it all. And thank you for taking the time to submit your comment upon your return. Hopefully, it will help others, too. Much appreciated!

I followed your instructions (and pictures!)! This was my most memorable day on my cruise. 40 Cannons was lovely. Beautiful beach, precious people, very peaceful. Your directions with the pictures and taxi costs were the BEST. This was the best ‘excursion’ by far. Thank you Sherry, it helped so much!

Hi Alison, I apologize for this late reply as your cruise departure day is so close. I was just in Costa Maya two weeks ago and I’m in the process of a completely updated post.

Unfortunately, the trolley is no longer running. However, for your group of 6 people, there are golf carts for rent for 4 or 6 passengers. The company is Red Shirt rentals and you’ll find them in back of the cruise complex, as I describe in the article. The cost is $80 for the entire day. They’ll give you a map of where you can and cannot go (where the roads end).

The beach club at 40 Canones, Pez Quadro, has a fee and you can purchase a day pass online ( https://www.pezquadrocostamaya.com/ ) on their website or when you get there. As for “free” public beaches…there are a few between the cruise port and 40 Canones. You’d probably be better with paying for a day pass just to have a chair and umbrella, plus a meal and/or alcohol. Keep in mind that much of the shoreline can be a bit rocky, or have a lot of shells that make walking barefoot uncomfortable. Aqua shoes are a good solution. Depending on weather and time of year, there can be a lot of seaweed that washes up to the shoreline, too.

There are other beach clubs along the Costa Maya shore, but I have not ventured all the way out there. Chunky Monkey seems to have good reviews but it’s not affiliated with a hotel like 40 Canones.

I hope you get this information before your cruise! I hope to post the update on Monday, Nov. 7.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read my article and send your question. Have a wonderful cruise!

Hi Kristie, Thank you for reading my Costa Maya article. I was just in Costa Maya two weeks ago and I’m in the process of a thorough update to the post. Since the pandemic, the tram/trolley is no longer running. Instead, there are only taxis and golf carts for rent.

A taxi would be your best way to get to Mahahual. While I totally understand your comfort level, it is possible to find others to share the taxi ride. For the return, you’d either be on your own, or from 40 Canones, you could walk along the wide Maleçon (promenade/sidewalk) to find others waiting for a taxi. For me two weeks ago, I stayed onboard the ship until almost everyone went ashore. When I walked to the taxi area, there were some people with whom I could have shared an air-conditioned taxi. I chose not to only because I didn’t want to get into a small car with other cruisers and I didn’t have a mask with me. Otherwise, I would have gone. It’s $8 per trip (not per person) is what I was told.

The taxis are regulated (there’s a dispatcher) and in a queue for passengers.

I’ve always felt safe taking a taxi alone in Costa Maya (and Cozumel), but again, I completely understand the concerns of traveling as a solo female in a foreign country.

I’ll have all the updated info and new photos posted hopefully by tomorrow (Monday).

Thank you again for reading my article and I hope the update will help clarify any questions you may have about getting to Mahahual.

You said that you can take a tram to the hotel. Can you take the tram back to the port? I don’t know if I’m am comfortable riding alone in a taxi.

I’m so happy I came across your article, I’m going on a cruise next week and we are stopping at Costa Maya for a day, my husband and 4 children ages 6-11. We dock at 12:30 to 7pm so i’m just looking for a little trip to the beach with the kids to do some beach combing, play in the sand and back to the boat for dinner. I plan on taking the trolley there as it sounds really fun for the kids. I have a few questions I hope you might be able to answer.

Is the beach you mentioned public? Can I access it without having to go to 40 Canones Beach Club?

Does the trolley take you back to the cruise ship pier or do you have to take a taxi (there are 6 of us)?

Thank so much for any more advice or tips you can give me.

Hi Christine, Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m heading to Costa Maya as I’m typing this, so I’ll look for the Crazy Lobster! I don’t know if it is in Mahahual or at the cruise port center, but I’ll do my best to find it! As for a beach without a fee…there’s a very small beach area at the cruise port (a dip your toe in the water size beach) but you have to get to Mahahual to find the nicer beaches. Most if not all are not smooth sand into the water so bring aqua shoes. The beaches at Mahahual depend a lot on the weather for either rocks to walk over, too much kelp or smooth sand.

If I find Crazy Lobster, I’ll let you know! Thanks very much for reading my blog posts! It’s much appreciated. Have a wonderful cruise!

HI Sherry, I love your blogs! I have just consumed all your information for Cozumel and Costa Maya. I cruise there next month. I also subscribed to your newsletters. I do have two questions about Costa Maya. Have ever eaten at the Crazy Lobster and if so, how was it? Is there a free beach I can enjoy? THANK YOU! Christine

Sorry you had such an awful experience. 40 Cañones is a hotel and restaurant. Across the sidewalk is Pez Quadro, the beach club for the hotel. And yes, the beach club has different prices. A day package with unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, one entrée, lounge chair and wifi is $45 USD. If you want all you can drink plus the same other amenities, then it’s $85 USD. Add lobster and the first package then becomes $65; the second package with booze and lobster etc. is $119.

So if your taxi driver said $65, that would be for the non-alcoholic package with lobster, lounge chair and wifi. I have no clue why you were charged $10 tax on your $26 meal!

I always just go to the hotel for their wonderful restaurant, walk the promenade, head back to the hotel and get a taxi.

Maybe your next visit to Mahahual will be better. Thank you for taking the time to read my article and send your comment.

Asked taxi driver to take us to 40 Cannons Beach. He said they charge $65 per day. He suggested another place, $15 pp per day. What a rip off. Food bill $26 plus $10 tax plus tip. I argued a bit about $10 tax, to no avail. Came back by taxi (now $4). Cimplained to taxi fellow about $10 tax. They are sorry. Is it true the 40 Cannons charges $65 to get in?????

Hi Ali, Thank you so much for taking the time and remembering to come back to my site for your comment! I’m really glad to hear that the restaurant is still top-notch and I’m looking forward to a revisit as soon as I can. Again, thank you! Sherry

Thanks for recommendations. The lunch at 40 Canones was delicious!

Hi Jeff, Thanks for reading this article. I agree…there are more things to do in Costa Maya. My objective with this particular article was to delineate the over-crowded cruise ship complex from a day in relaxing Mahahual. I will work on a new article for Costa Maya with more to do there. Thank you for the suggestion. Much appreciated.

There are quite a few more things to do than sit on a beach! Please cover some of those too.

Hi Jen, Thanks very much. I just replied to a comment yesterday that the breezeway cut-through could be blocked. Now it’s confirmed. I guess too many people figured out the short cut and bypassed the shops and vendors. Thank you very much for the update. I’ll add it to the article in an update. I hope you had a good day in Costa Maya.

FYI: As of two days ago, that pass through next to the stairs is closed!! You must walk all the way around to get a taxi or golf cart. Use the map the ship gives you to find the taxi area.

Hi Lesley, Thank you for reading my article. Yes, there is a fee for the beach club and its amenities. Pez Quadro is the Beach Club associated with 40 Canons Hotel. There’s a link to Pez Quadro in my article where you can book your day pass. My day in Costa Maya means lunch outdoors at 40 Canons and then a leisurely walk along the pathway, turn around and walk back to the hotel for a taxi back to the port. But the Beach Club is a good value with several inclusions (lunch and drinks, wifi, etc) to choose. Just be sure to leave a couple of hours or so for your return to the ship. Someone emailed me to say that at the cruise complex, the little cut-through breezeway that I mention in a photo now has a vendor booth or something in front of it? But it’s easy to find the taxi rank or the trolley.

Have a wonderful cruise and a perfect day in Costa Maya! Thank you again for reading and taking the time for your question.

So there is no charge to use their beach? We will be there next week as a port of call and am not interested in any of the cruise line excursions. I just was a beach and a local place to eat and can go back to ship whenever I want to. Thanks for this info!!

Hi Stacy, Thank you so much for your email! I’m so glad you enjoyed your time in Costa Maya. It is a beautiful place. Also, thanks for reading my article and taking the time to write after your cruise. It’s much appreciated! I look forward to my next cruise that includes Costa Maya! Happy Travels!

Was at Costa Maya last week. It’s absolutely beautiful!

Hi Tammy, Thank you very much for your kind words. It sounds like you’ll have a wonderful family cruise vacation! For Costa Maya, and considering how many people are in your group and the expanse of ages, this may be one of the few times I recommend a ship’s shore excursion or possibly through a 3rd party. Though in your case, just going with the ship’s tour would be the simplest plan, IMO.

Personally, I like to just spend the day having lunch on the beach in Mahahual, just a short taxi ride from the port. But with your group, an air-conditioned motor coach ride to one of the three Mayan ruins could have something for everyone. Most tours include time at a beach as well. And people can nap on the drive back to the port! Have a wonderful cruise! And thanks again for writing.

Hello Sherry, Thank you for your blog.. Our family will be taking a cruise in April 2022 to Costa Maya. At this time there will be approximately 15 of us. Do you have any suggestions, we have age group from 3 18 year olds to 77 yrs young…. TIA for any advice or suggestions you may have. Tammy

Hi Maureen, Thank you for your question. Yes, there is a fee for a day pass to 40 Canons Beach Club. Adults prices range from $45 USD to $85 USD depending upon the type of pass – alcoholic or non. Pez Quadro is part of the hotel. Personally, I’ve never used the beach club (the beaches in Costa Maya can be covered with seaweed) but I’ve had some outstanding meals at the hotel. I love Costa Maya and hope that you have a wonderful visit. Thank you again for your question and reading my article. Sherry

Sheri I’m looking for pricing to enter 40 canons beach club. Is there a price to enter the beach club? Is it per person or adults pay? I was also looking for a website for 40 canons but only found Pez Candro. Could you direct me where to look? Thanks!

Hi Jim, Thank you for taking the time to write and for reading my blog! Much appreciated. I’m not sure what you mean by “port experience”? Is this a Royal Caribbean shore excursion? There are options to purchase tours once you are in the cruise port pool complex but if there’s a trip that your really want to take, you might want to purchase it as soon as possible. Your travel agent or someone at Royal Caribbean should be able to find an answer to your port question. I’m familiar with spending time in Mahahual not a planned tour excursion. Sorry I can’t be of more help. It’s a wonderfully peaceful place to visit once you’re outside of the pool complex. Have a wonderful cruise! Sherry

Great blog, thanks for the information on Costa Maya. I will be visiting there next March with our granddaughter and wanted to know what the cost of the port experience should be. Royal wants about $40pp but can’t you purchase tickets once you get to the port area directly? And what if you only want to see the animals/birds, can you only do one thing?

Thanks, Jim

Hi Michael, Congratulations on your oldest graduating into high school – perfect time for a celebration cruise. You’re best bet is to read other comments online about Costa Maya. You can also contact a travel agent who can possibly arrange shore tours for you and your family.

The only change in my article is that the short-cut to the taxi at the Costa Maya cruise complex has been closed. Now you have to walk all the way around the complex to get to the taxi/trolley boarding area. Costa Maya is great if you want a simple beach day. But be aware that seaweed has been an ongoing issue along the entire stretch of Costa Maya beach and going into the water isn’t pleasant. This could of course change at any given moment.

Have a fabulous family cruise! Thank you very much for reading my articles and taking the time to write. Sherry

I am going to be going on a cruise and stopping in costa maya and want to make sure I’m well prepared for what we will be doing. We are going to be there the week of may 23 2020. I have 2 kids going 1 is 9 the other 13 and this is their first cruise. The 13 year old is going to graduate 8th grade so kind of a celebration and they both want to go to the beach. Can you email me some details so I can have everything in line for what we need to do and what to do so we are not spending that much money. Thank you for your time.

Hi Alan, Thank you very much for taking the time to write your comments. All excellent points. I am disappointed to learn that the little short cut by the stairs is no longer available. It was nice to escape the shopping mall en route to the taxi area.

Yes, I’ve read about the seaweed problem being an ongoing issue with no end in close sight. Personally, I rarely go into the water so thank you again for your report on the seaweed/sargassum and snorkeling. The few times I have, I remember the shoreline being rather rocky and full of shells.

I will work on an update to the article asap. Thank you again for your really great comments. Much appreciated. Sherry

Just a little feedback from our trip here on 7/11/19.

1-You can no longer pass under the stairs to the taxi area. They have walled that off so you have to go all the way through the mall area, out the back, through the parking lot/security and then you find the taxis. Everything went well with the taxis, no issues getting there or back.

2-This and some surrounding resorts are now part of some cruises excursions so it’s not as secluded as it once was. We still had no issue getting seated or anything along those lines, just worth noting.

3-The seaweed/sargassum is overrunning this beach all the way up and down. They were extending the fence offshore during our stay and attempting to keep up with removal but it was pretty thick and you had to go through it to get to the water.

4-Snorkeling off the beach was not worthwhile. You can go beyond the fence (make sure to pay attention when crossing just past there as it is the path the boats take to get in/out of the bay) but even that was just sand and sea grass, mostly conchs not really anything in the fish area. There is a stand right beside the chairs that will take you out on a boat to snorkel for a very reasonable rate but we did not try that during our stay.

5-You will experience numerous vendors passing through the seats trying to sell things. They are very friendly but also respectful if you indicate no interest they will not continue to pursue. You can haggle on price (we did buy a couple things) but I have no idea how to haggle so I’m sure they enjoyed me being there…

Food and drinks were good and staff was very nice. They were able to accommodate my eldest daughters Celiac (gluten allergy). The $20pp fee is adults only…I didn’t realize that so I was trying to eat and drink for 4 including my kids to reach my misunderstood $80 threshold which was only $40 (whoops), but no complaints as it was all very good. All in all it was good, just wanted to call out some items that have changed since the original column was written.

Hi Brenda, Thank you very much for your nice comment; much appreciated. I will try to add your email address to my newsletter list and I think you will receive a double-check email asking you to please reconfirm that you want to receive my newsletter. Then if you click “yes” you’ll be on the list. Thank you again! Have a wonderful cruise and visit to Costa Maya. Sherry

Thoroughly enjoyed reading your info on Costa Maya regarding upcoming cruise. If you have a Newsletter please sign me up!!

Hi DeOndra, Thank you for writing – it’s much appreciated. Since things change all the time, I would suggest that you contact the hotel direct. When I’ve been there, I’ve eaten lunch in the hotel restaurant (fabulous!) then walked across to the beach area and tipped the person for a chair. I’ve never tried the fishing excursion so I can’t advise on that one. Whatever you do, have a wonderful day in Costa Maya! Sherry

Hi there! My question is, if we pay for the all inclusive in advance, would we be eating in the actual 40 canons restaurant or just quesidallas off a menu in a lounge chair? I love the looks of the food and atmosphere of the actual restaurant . I would also like to know more about the fishing excursion that is mentioned in the Pez Quatro website, like how often do they really caught anything. Just trying to figure out the best option before November. Thank you!

Hi Trisha, It sounds like you have some good plans in place. For Mahahual, your kids can snorkel near the shore but while the water in Mahahual is usually calm, be aware that there could be a current or a rocky shoreline to wade through til it was deep enough. But everything else you’ve mentioned seems good. Yes, there are a lot of beach chairs and for a small gratuity I would think that the person collecting the entrance fees would rustle up 10 chairs for all of you to be near each other. I am not familiar with making reservations ahead of time to reserve lounge chairs. If you are referring to just staying at the cruise complex, then rounding up 10 chairs near each other could be interesting. I hope this was helpful. Have a wonderful family cruise. Sherry

Hi! Going next month and my kids love to Snorkel (11& 15yrs old). Can they swim out some and snorkel or would you recommend we find an excursion to do that? As of now plans are just to do lunch, little shopping and hangout at the beach. Also, are there always beach chairs to rent on beach? Can I reserve in advance? It’s a party of 10 and I want to make sure we can all sit together. Thanks!

Hi Esteban, Good question. Aside from going to Mahahual on your own, I wouldn’t suggest venturing out of the town limits without being on some kind of a group tour. You can have a really nice day in Mahahual without spending a lot of money on a full day tour to the Mayan ruins -though they are really beautiful and amazing to see. If you rent a golf cart, there’s not much to do with it after a couple of hours. Puerto Costa Maya is just a recreation complex and the ride to Mahahual is only 10 – 15 minutes away.

I’d suggest taking either the $3 dollar trolley or a taxi down to 40 Canons, have lunch, relax at the beach and stroll along the promenade. Either way, have fun! Thanks for your question. Sherry

Going there in April but would like to deep more in the area….is the area big & secure??? Also, besides the golf carts are there any other options to move a little more??? Going with my parents and want to explore a little more…thanks!!!

Hi Liliana, Lucky you…Costa Maya is one of my favorite ports. You could follow the suggestions in the article and you can read the positive comments from readers. Have fun! Sherry

we are going for first time to Costa Maya, we are very exiting after I read all these comments,, we love the beach and w e are looking to relax in a pretty beach very clear where you can really relax, and enjoy the ocean and have some appetizers and a refreshing drink, where do you recommended to go?

Hi Dale, I’m SO glad everyone had a great time in Costa Maya and that my advice and directions worked! I totally agree that I’d also like to spend a 3-4 laid-back days in Mahahual at 40 Cannons. The food at Maramao is excellent and the ambiance is so very easy.

Thank you for sharing your follow-up for Costa Maya. If you don’t mind, may I take a part of your comment to use on my website? Just a little blurb in the sidebar. I would only use your first name and last initial. I hope you’ll approve, but if not, I totally understand.

Regards, Sherry

We followed your advice and glad we did. Cab ride to 40 Cannons was $8 for our group of 4. We checked out the area and two people had 45 minute massages for $20 each. We had lunch at Maramao. Very good and run by great people. Lobster and fish dishes as well as Italian. Prices were very reasonable and gave us access to the beach. We would not have found this place without your recommendation. I would consider going back to this place for a longer stay.

Hi DeeDee, Good question. There are “free” beaches but if you want a lounge chair, you’ll pay a fee. Since you’re planning on a drink and a snack, that would surely take care of the cover charge. I’d suggest taking the trolley to the end at 40 Canones (why not have lunch and a drink there?) and then walk the promenade until you find whatever appeals to you. Have a wonderful time. Sherry

Hi Sherry, we will be at Costa Maya/Mahahual with a cruise. We want to go by trolley to Mahahual. Is there a part of the beach without paying a fee? Or a bar where you can just can have a drink and a small snack?

Hi Sarah, I always have lunch at 40 Canones and then just go across the pavement to the beach. If you only want to use the beach then yes, there would be a fee. Have fun!

Is there a fee to get in? I read in one post there is a meal and drink package?

For a family, a day at the beach in Costa Maya is a good option, as long as you purchase beach chairs with shade. While most of the shoreline is smooth sand, depending on weather, current etc, aqua shoes are a good idea in case of a pebbly shore as you walk into the water. Meals and snacks are available along the promenade and you can sit and enjoy a nice lunch at 40 Canones. Though with a 2 yr old, I don’t know how relaxing it might for you! Actually, in thinking this through, your best and simplest bet might be to just spend the day at the cruise ship venue, right there at the port. Easy to push a buggy, you can find shade, there’s a kids pool area and you can head back to the ship much easier. Looking back to when my kids were small (first cruise at 5 and 7), the simpler I kept activities, made for an easier and more pleasant cruise experience.

Have a wonderful cruise! Sherry

We are heading here in March. We are a family with smaller children (2-13), and was wondering if this would be a great place to come as a family? There aren’t a lot of options through the cruise line. I am more worried about missing our boarding time, since it’s early afternoon!

Have fun! I love Costa Maya. Enjoy your lunch at 40 Canones and save time to walk along the promenade, too. If you think of it, please drop me a note when you return and let me know how it all worked. Thank you! Bon Voyage! Sherry

We will be there in August. I am so excited to try this out.

Hi Mary Ann,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a nice note. I’m happy that you and everyone enjoyed their day at 40 Canons. It’s one of my favorite self-made cruise days! If you don’t mind, may I use your first three sentences as a quote/testimonial? I will only include your first name (I don’t know your last name.) Thank you again for your note (it made my day!) and I hope you’ll approve. Sherry

My husband and I and another couple followed these instructions last week when our cruise ship stopped in Costa Maya. This was one of the best days we ever had. We followed your directions and had no problems. We never saw the little makeshift table you spoke of to get a ride on the trolley or taxi but there were a lot of people there who spoke English that could get us a taxi. The taxi was $2 a person. The taxi driver understood Forty Canons easily and we had printed out the paper to show him in case he didn’t. When we got to Forty Canons, we were so pleased. It is a beautiful resort. It sits on a promenade where you can take a leisurely stroll and looks at the wares that the locals were selling. It was very easy to negotiate a price when we wanted to buy something. We were greeted by one of the beach attendants who spoke English. He said the beach chair and umbrella was $20. We told him no, we would pay $10 so he said ok. He let us pick out where we wanted to sit. It was not crowded at all and had a wonderful scenic place to sit. The water was crystal clear and the beach was nice. There are locals who walk around trying to sell you stuff but when you just shake your head no they smile and leave you alone. It was not a problem. The attendants on the beach are there to serve you drinks and lunch if you want to order anything. It was not expensive at all and the drinks were delicious. It was very easy getting a cab back to the ship. There were many outside the hotel. All in all, we loved everything about the day.

Hi John, That plus some good food and you’re right! The beaches are gorgeous, too. Sherry

any place off the beach with good snorkling

Hi Christina, Happy 10th anniversary! If you follow the directions in the article, you should have a pretty easy time getting to Mahahual and the beach. When you get to 40 Canons Hotel, you can ask anyone about renting a beach chair with them. Otherwise, you can cut through to the beach and walk along the promenade until you find a location you like. Bring US cash in small bills, too. Have a great time in Costa Maya! Sherry

We are headed here next week. Do I need any type of reservation or do I just walk in? I don’t speak Spanish well so I’m nervous. I want to have a great relaxing day as it’s my 10 year wedding anniversary the day we will be there. How do you get a seat on the beach? Just walk up and pick one or do they give you one

Hi Paula, Please contact a travel agency in your area or if that is not convenient, contact the cruise line directly and they can send a brochure. Sherry

Need liturature for your cruises to Alaska my address is Pau, Corning,box1i3, ap,Arkansas,72422t. 1la Rogerssend me literature on your cruises .

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

What are you looking for?

Updated on April 24, 2024 by Wesley Edwards

• Cruise Port - 1 Perfect Day
• Tour/Excursion Recommendations
• Travel Tips
• Trip Guides

10 Inexpensive Things to do at the Costa Maya Cruise Port

If you’re like us, then you’ve got a budget for traveling (and if you don’t have a budget, then you’re probably on a yacht instead of a cruise ship and can just skip this post). This guide tells all of the people who are cruising (instead of yachting) all of the inexpensive things that you can do in the Costa Maya cruise port and save money on shore excursions for some of the other ports.

Costa Maya is one of those ports that you can completely wing. So don’t worry if you’re not a planner, Costa Maya is the place for you (although if you’re not a planner, you probably aren’t reading this are you?). Anyways, Costa Maya is really easy as far as cruise ports go. You walk right off your cruise ship and follow the only pier all the way into the port (towards land!). There are several great photo ops along your walk which is nice because it’s a really long pier and sometimes you need an excuse to stop (hey honey, this looks like a great place for a family photo – wink, wink!).

(see those huts on the left that are really small, that’s the pool!).

• 1.1 1. Take a swim in the free pool
• 1.2 2. Watch the dolphins swim
• 1.3 3. Take pictures with the colorful alebrijes (statues). 
• 1.4 4. Take a taxi to the nearby beach
• 1.5 5. Eat Tacos & Guacamole
• 1.6 6. Sample Mexican Chocolate
• 1.7 7. Look at the colorful birds
• 1.8 8. Wander the shops looking for colorful Mexican Souvenirs
• 1.9 9. Take Instagram worthy photos of the Costa Maya signs
• 1.10 10. Watch the musicians or observe a silly Mexican wrestling match!

Map of the Costa Maya Cruise Port:

Below is a hopefully helpful map of the Costa Maya cruise port. This map seems to be a bit outdated. As of January 2019, there is actually another set of buildings on the back of the cruise port. If you walk all the way down to the south side, then to the west, an alley curves around with more places to eat and it takes you to the alebrijes, the yellow Costa Maya sign, and the taxi stand.

1. Take a swim in the free pool

When you first walk into the port of Costa Maya, you’ll see tons of stands set up selling typical Mexican souvenirs. But if you walk through those and to the left a little bit, then in the middle of the port area there is a huge awesome swimming pool that is completely free! Just grab a beach chair, waiters will bring you any food or drinks that you need (or you can use the swim up bar), and jump right in.

The day that we visited just happened to be the one day that the Polar Vortex covered the entire U.S. *(what are the odds?) and so the temperature in Costa Maya dipped to about 75 which meant it was a chilly pool. I can’t imagine that would ever happen to you on your trip, but no worries if it does because there are 9 other fun things to do in the rest of my guide.

The awesome thing is that kids generally aren’t affected by cold swimming pools at all, so my nephew had a great time splashing around and playing in the fountains in the shallow end.

2. Watch the dolphins swim

This is animal tourism and therefore may be a little bit controversial, but yes – you can watch the dolphin’s swim. At Costa Maya you can spend a lot of money to swim with dolphins and support animal tourism. Or you can go the budget route and watch the dolphins swim around for free. This way you’re saving money and you aren’t giving a penny to a company that may or may not be exploiting animals! And let’s face it, little kids will just think that the dolphins are really neat! We watched them for probably about 10 minutes and one swam right up to look at Jackson in his stroller. So go ahead and make some free memories watching dolphins.

There are signs all around the dolphin tank asking you not to take pictures. So like a good little traveler, I didn’t. The picture below is taken with my back to the dolphin tank.

3. Take pictures with the colorful alebrijes (statues). 

Alebrijes are brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical (fantasy/mythical) creatures.  You will see many vendors selling small versions of alebrijes to take home. However, there are at least 2 huge statues at the cruise port of Costa Maya. They are really colorful and I think are the most instagrammable photo opportunities at Costa Maya. They are located just about as far away from the pier as you can go, so they’re a bit of a secret and are only found by those who wander the furthest!  

4. Take a taxi to the nearby beach

Okay, earlier I mentioned that you don’t have to leave the cruise port to have an amazing day in Costa Maya and that’s completely true. But, if you’re just dying to see the beach, you should know that there’s one located just about 10 minutes away from Costa Maya. Walk all the way through the cruise port and hail a taxi for a few dollars per person in 2019.

We didn’t end up doing this option, but I’d love to hear in the comments if you did and what your experience was?!

5. Eat Tacos & Guacamole

There are places to get food all throughout the cruise port. But we stumbled upon a place in the back street by the alebrijes that roasted fresh meat on spits and sold tacos. And it was delicious. We spent a relaxing hour sitting at a table in the street, eating tacos and guacamole while our little guy napped on his daddy’s shoulder.

6. Sample Mexican Chocolate

Near the Aviary and the dolphins is a shop called the Kakaw Chocolate Factory. This stores sells fresh mexican chocolate and they offer free samples on a daily basis. If you’ve never had it, Mexican chocolate is a bit spicy (seriously!) and unlike any chocolate anywhere else!

7. Look at the colorful birds

In the middle of the cruise port near the pool, there is a large treehouse like structure where you can pay a small amount to climb up and see and hold all different types of colorful tropical birds. If you don’t want to pay, there are a few that you can see from the outside including a whole little pool with flamingos.

8. Wander the shops looking for colorful Mexican Souvenirs

If you’re looking for Mexican souvenirs, there are a few things that are pretty typical. First, you can find Mexican pottery in all shapes and sizes. And it’s one of those souvenirs that you can actually use. A few years ago, I bought a beautiful bowl that I use for a fruit bowl in our kitchen. If you’re more into knick-knacks, then you can pick up some small alebrijes to take home with you. For jewelry, you can find certified Mexican silver jewelry. Food based Mexican souvenirs include bottles of Vanilla for cooking, or you can take home some Mexican chocolate. Lastly, there is always things like maracas, ponchos, sombrerors, or wrestling costumes which you can take home. Our nephews loved their silly wrestling masks!

9. Take Instagram worthy photos of the Costa Maya signs

There are at least 3 different signs where you can take your picture and prove that you actually visited Costa Maya! Two of the signs are located right when you walk off the pier and into the shopping area. The third (and way less crowded sign) is located in the back part of Costa Maya near the alebrijes and the taxi stand.

10. Watch the musicians or observe a silly Mexican wrestling match!

Last but not least, if you’re in need of some entertainment, there are a couple of options. First, there are musicians located throughout the cruise port. There are also some people dressed up in Mayan costumes and dancing near the shops area. Lastly if you’re really into it, the same restaurant with the swim-up bar has a ring set up for Mexican wrestling matches, with silly costumes and all. We had a good time listening to the wrestling from the pool.

Well, we hope you find our guide helpful so that you have as good of a visit to Costa Maya’s cruise port as we did!

Click here to keep planning your trip with our guide to the Cozumel Cruise Port!

2 Replies to “10 Inexpensive Things to do at the Costa Maya Cruise Port”

I love that there’s so much to do and it’s all close together!

Yea! Costa Maya is probably the easiest cruise port I’ve ever visited for this very reason! No logistics at all!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Enter total 651 + 4

• Destinations

Costa Maya Cruise Port: What To Do While Visiting By Ship

• December 28, 2022
• 1.1K shares

Any tourist visiting Mexico should definitely stop and peruse Costa Maya – a popular cruise port located on the Eastern coast of Mexico, Quintana Roo. It’s a bustling destination for cruise travellers seeking seaside fun in the Yucatan Peninsula.

From the exploration of ancient Mayan ruins at Chacchoben to the tours of the Bacalar Lagoon, Costa Maya offers various activities and attractions to all visiting tourists. There’s also a nearby town, namely Mahahual, that once was a small fishing village and is currently a hot spot for tourists.

Don’t forget the fascinating ancient ruins too! They’re rather impressive structures surrounded by lush jungle. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Mayan civilization.

The Costa Maya Cruise Port Area: What to Do There

Cruise ships dock right at the pier in Costa Maya, so there is no need for tendering to shore. 

This is great because it means you can get off the ship right away and make the most of your day. Or, you can just linger around and wait for the crowds to disembark first. 

Either way, after walking off the cruise ship pier, you’ll be greeted by a lovely port area with shops, a few restaurants and bars, and a swimming pool—which means there’s a lot to do at this Caribbean port , including:

• Swimming with the dolphins
• Visiting the bars
• Getting a massage

And while nothing compares to the fun you’ll have at the major shopping district in Cozumel , it’s still pleasant to walk around Costa Maya and enjoy what it has to offer.

READ ALSO: 9 Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico

Also keep in mind:

Ship-organised tours assemble and board buses in this area. So if you’re on a privately-arranged tour, or want to take a taxi or bus to the nearby village of Mahahual, then you’ll need to head right outside the port gates.

Going to Mahahual: What to Know About Visiting

With just a tiny bit of effort, you can spend the day in the beautiful beach town of Mahahual! 

The once fishing village now has a fun and laid-back promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. So after leaving the port area, simply take the trolley bus or taxi (about $4 per person ) for ten minutes south to the town.

Naturally, you’ll start feeling peckish after your trip – so stop by 40 Canones ; a restaurant that happens to be a popular choice among cruisers! It offers delicious bites and a prime viewing spot right on the Caribbean Sea.

Patrons can relax in a lounge, order chocolate and drinks, like tequila, and spend the day relaxing in the beautiful sunshine.

READ: 10 Things To Know Before Sailing Royal Caribbean

A quick heads-up: 

This part of the Caribbean has a seasonal seaweed problem . We say seasonal because it happens to get worse during the warmer months – particularly from May to October. The good news is that locals do their best to keep it cleared away. 

That said, when you’ve had your share of this quaint village and are ready to return to the cruise ship (leave time for about an hour before departure!), simply get back on the trolley or hail a taxi.

Fun fact: According to latest updates in 2024, the Mexican government continues to invest into the Mahahual village, their latest addition being a Mahahual bike path for tourists to enjoy.

Costa Maya Cruise Port Beach Clubs: The Must-Visit Maya Chan

Along with the beach bars and restaurants in Mahahual, there are several all-inclusive beach clubs to choose from—with the most popular being Maya Chan .

REVIEW: Maya Chan Beach Club

With an entrance fee of $59 per adult and descending price tiers for the under-18 crowd, visitors can enjoy all-you-can-eat food and drink (including alcohol), non-motorized water sports, snorkel equipment, and beach loungers with umbrellas. Children’s sand toys are available at no charge as well. Free WiFi is also available.

To top it all off, transportation from the port is included too, making this a really easy way to enjoy a fun day at the beach without worrying about prices or how to get there.

Best Costa Maya Beaches Near Cruise Port

While the Maya Chan Beach club is arguably the best Costa Maya beach you’ll set foot in, there are two other contenders that come rather close. Check them out:

Hayhu Beach

For a fancy beach experience, head on down to Hayhu beach . It’s a tranquil, eco-conscious oasis where tourists can relax and connect with nature. 

The place offers many excursion options, such as private beach breaks, all-inclusive packages, and snorkel boat tours. And after a long day of exploring, you can pick a dining spot where you’ll be guaranteed delicious food and excellent service.

Here’s a pro tip: Book a place at Hayhu beach early as there’s limited availability due to the beach being a highly popular tourist spot. 

Pez Quadro Beach

The Pez Quadro Beach Club is a fantastic destination for travellers looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean coast. There, you can book from a list of different activities, including:

• A day-pass with lunch and open bar
• An all-inclusive package (includes massage and transportation) 
• Private beach excursions
• Kayaking, fishing trips. and snorkelling

One of the highlights of Pez Quadro is its excellent facilities. Many visitors have praised the place’s food, service, cleanliness, and laid-back atmosphere. 

This beach club is also located in Mahahual, making it a hop away from the port. It’s a 10-minute drive by taxi to be exact.

The Mayan Ruins: Live Costa Maya’s Impressive Ancient Culture

For those interested in history or yearning for something besides a beach day, Puerto Costa Maya has you covered. Discover the impressive builds the ancient Maya people erected—the most popular of which we cover below.

Chacchoben and Dzibanche

Built over 1,300 years ago, these two incredible, ancient Mayan cities really are spectacular! They stand relatively close to the Caribbean cruise port, too, making it an easy trip.

While there are quite a few smaller sites nearby, Chacchoben and Dzibanche are the two largest and most interesting ones. If the only Mayan site you have seen is Tulum, near Cozumel, get ready for these ruins to take your breath away!

We’re happy to report also that both contain several pyramids, ball courts, and other ruins of these once-mighty cities. Additionally, many tours visit either a combination of cities or one city, as well as a butterfly farm and other interesting stops.

How to Get There

Get to Chacchoben and Dzibanche by either cruise line excursions or independently booked tours. Chacchoben is just under an hour from the pier, while Dzibanche is a little further afield – at two hours and 20 minutes.

And if you’re limited on time, Chacchoben is the better choice as the ruins there are more complete, and the closeness to the port makes it an easy trip. Make sure to bring along cash for any small purchases, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

While Chacchoben and Dzibanche are much larger than Tulum and decidedly more impressive to view, the latter is perched along the sea, offering a more atmospheric location.

The main attraction in Tulum is the archaeological site of the same name. Those well-preserved ruins sit atop cliffs that overlook the Caribbean Sea. It’s quite the breathtaking site!

Interestingly, Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya people. Back in the day, it served as an important trading hub for them!

Nowadays, though, you’ll find tourists gathered around its impressive structures, such as the Temple of the Frescoes and El Castillo . We recommend considering a Tulum guided tour for insights into the architectural and astronomical knowledge of ancient Maya.

Bacalar Lagoon: Why Visit the Lake of Seven Colors

Bacalar lagoon is often known as the “Lake of Seven Colors” and never fails to impress visitors with its multi-hued waters. At nearly 26 miles long but only 1.2 miles wide, Bacalar Lagoon is breathtakingly beautiful.

Around an hour from the port, the Bacalar Lagoon is often combined with visits to the Chacchoben Mayan ruins discussed above.

READ MORE: 5 Hot Spots for Western Caribbean Cruisers

Situated on the water’s edge is the Bacalar Fort too, which was constructed to guard against pirate attacks. 

Another popular activity is to take a boat out into the lagoon with stops for swimming and bathing in the clear waters. However you choose to enjoy the lake, it is sure to impress!

Costa Maya Cruise Port: FAQs

Is costa maya safe.

We’re happy to report that Costa Maya is a tourist-friendly location, safe for families, travelling friends, and even solo female travellers! Crime rates are low and there are little incidents of stress harassment. The majority of tourists visiting never run into trouble.

So exercise regular caution and you’ll experience a wonderful stay there no doubt. 

Is there free wifi in Costa Maya cruise port?

Yes, there’s free WiFi available in most areas around the Costa Maya Port terminal. Some spots won’t have the best signal, but once you find one that does, you can face-time your family and friends back home no problem!

Costa Maya Cruise Port: Final Thoughts

Whatever you decide to do in Costa Maya, you’re bound to have a spectacular time! 

The port caters to tourists of all needs, too. Whether you’re a history geek or a water-loving explorer, Costa Maya has the activities to charm you into visiting it again and again.

From the beaches and ruins, to the breathtaking sights and clear waters, Costa Maya is sure to leave you with lasting memories and vacation photos to brag about.

Recent Posts

Wildfires in alaska force cancellation of denali cruise tours, passenger jumps off cruise ship in asia, still missing, cruise line increase capacity by 30%, new year-round regional sailings, dining detailed for upcoming disney treasure cruise ship, share this post, related posts.

Cruise Pricing Appears Higher Due To New California State Law

Brawl on Carnival Cruise Ship Sends Chairs Flying [VIDEO]

Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.   

Quick links

Cruise Radio, LLC © Copyright 2009-2024 | Website Designed By   Insider Perks, Inc

7 Best Things To Do In Costa Maya | Costa Maya Cruise Port Guide 2024

Nestled along the dazzling turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored by avid travelers and cruise enthusiasts like Costa Maya Cruise Port . 

This picturesque destination offers an array of unforgettable experiences that cater to every type of adventurer, from history buffs to beach lovers and adrenaline junkies. We have curated a list of the 17 best things to do in Costa Maya that will ensure you make the most of your visit in 2024.

Table of Contents

Costa Maya Cruise Port Overview

Nestled along the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Puerto Costa Maya Mexico is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. 

When arriving at the Costa Maya Cruise Port, be prepared for a potentially longer walk than expected. It’s essential to allow at least 15 minutes to walk to the meeting area if you have an excursion scheduled. 

With three to four cruise ships often docking simultaneously, the port can get crowded, adding to the walking time. Once inside the Costa Maya port, visitors are greeted with a large swimming pool featuring a convenient swim-up bar and free lounge chairs. 

This relaxing oasis provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of multiple cruise liners unloading passengers. 

Hurricane Dean caused significant destruction to the Costa Maya port in 2007, resulting in a lengthy recovery process. We observed notable improvements in the area during a recent visit on a Virgin Voyages cruise.

How to Get Around in Costa Maya

As a cruise traveler in Costa Maya, you have several transportation options available to explore the area: walking, taking a taxi, using a shuttle, or renting a golf cart.

Best Things to Do in Costa Maya Cruise Port

I stepped off the cruise ship in Costa Maya, I was greeted by a vibrant atmosphere full of exciting possibilities. After immersing myself in history, I made my way to the nearby Bacalar Lagoon to unwind in its crystal-clear waters. 

The shades of blue were unlike anything I had ever seen before, and spending a few hours kayaking and swimming in such a picturesque setting was pure bliss. To top off my day in Costa Maya, I indulged in some authentic Mexican cuisine at one of the local eateries near the port, savoring every bite of freshly prepared tacos and guacamole.

Beaches in Costa Maya Near Cruise Port

Exploring nearby beaches is a favored pastime among numerous cruise travelers. Here are the top-rated beaches and beach clubs for a day trip: 

Mahahual Beach

Unlike other crowded tourist destinations, Mahahual offers a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft sandy beaches provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding and soaking up the sun.

Mahahual Beach, just a 5-minute taxi ride from this cruise port, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by cruisers seeking an affordable beach day. 

Maya Chan Beach Resort

Maya Chan Beach Resort offers an exclusive and serene escape from the bustling crowds of cruise ships. Nestled just a short distance from this port, this hidden gem provides a peaceful oasis for visitors seeking tranquility and relaxation. 

The beach’s pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters invite guests to unwind and soak up the sun in a secluded paradise.

Uvero Beach

Uvero Beach offers a tranquil and secluded escape just a short distance from the Costa Maya port, approximately 30 minutes away. This hidden gem boasts soft sands and serene waters, providing an ideal setting for leisurely swimming and sunbathing for cruise passengers seeking a peaceful beach experience.

Costa Maya Beach Clubs Near the Cruise Port

Close to this cruise port, you can find a variety of beach day clubs such as Malecon 21 Beach Club, Chunky Monkey Beach Club, and Pez Quadro.

Relax at the Swimming Pool and Loungers

Imagine yourself basking in the warm sun, a gentle breeze caressing your skin as you lounge by the glistening swimming pool. The tranquil sound of water lapping against the sides beckons you to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life. 

The inviting loungers offer a comfortable spot to stretch out, read a book, or simply close your eyes and drift away into blissful relaxation.  The swimming pool becomes not just a place for recreation but a sanctuary for rejuvenation, where worries vanish and inner peace is found amid this oasis of serenity.

Costa Maya Cruise Terminal Attractions

One of the most captivating attractions within the port area is Aviarius. This bird sanctuary offers visitors the chance to interact with exotic birds in a natural setting. 

This immersive experience allows guests to learn about various species of birds and witness their beauty up close, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. For those seeking a cultural performance, the Papantla Flyers Dance of the Flyers is a mesmerizing display of ancient Mesoamerican ritual heritage. 

The gravity-defying act involves dancers who descend from a 20-meter pole while attached only by ropes, symbolizing the connection between earth and sky. This unique performance showcases both skill and tradition, providing insight into the rich cultural history of Mexico .

Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park

The Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Riviera Maya, Mexico. This expansive water park offers an immersive experience with its ancient Mayan-themed architecture and thrilling water attractions. 

From towering slides to lazy rivers meandering through lush greenery, this park promises a day full of excitement and relaxation. For those seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills, the slides at Lost Mayan Kingdom certainly deliver with their twists, turns, and steep drops. 

The Cenote slide plunges riders into a dark tunnel before emerging into an open cenote-like pool below. The contrast between modern water park amenities and ancient Mayan influences creates a truly unique atmosphere that transports visitors to another time and place.

Costa Maya | Cruise Port Photos

The stunning turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches of Costa Maya serve as the perfect backdrop for a memorable cruise experience. From the iconic lighthouse to the vibrant street markets, every corner of this port is brimming with authentic Mexican charm. 

The colorful buildings adorned with traditional Mayan motifs offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural history.

Costa Maya Port Things To Do Vs Things To Do In St Maarten Cruise Port

One of the top attractions in Costa Maya Port is the abundance of snorkeling excursions and scuba diving adventures. The crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea offer a vibrant underwater world waiting to be explored, showcasing colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. 

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner looking to try something new, Costa Maya has something for everyone seeking an aquatic adventure. For those interested in exploring beyond the port area, a visit to Bacalar Seven Color Lagoon is highly recommended. 

This stunning natural wonder offers visitors the opportunity to unwind in its mesmerizing turquoise waters while surrounded by lush greenery. Don’t miss out on experiencing the local flavors of Costa Maya through delicious cuisine and unique dishes that highlight the region’s culinary traditions. 

Indulge in some souvenir shopping at the port’s shops and stalls, where you can find a variety of handcrafted items and local goods to take home as mementos of your unforgettable trip to Costa Maya.

St Maarten Cruise Port , be sure to explore the vibrant capital of Philipsburg, known for its duty-free shopping and beautiful colonial architecture. 

Take a stroll down the famous Front Street lined with colorful shops and cafes, and don’t forget to sample some delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes. 

For adventure enthusiasts, a visit to Orient Bay Beach is a must. This stunning white sandy beach offers a variety of water sports activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, head to Maho Beach where you can watch planes fly right over your head as they land at the nearby airport.

Costa Maya cruise port offers a diverse range of activities for cruise visitors, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this Mexican port has something for everyone. 

By following this guide and prioritizing the seven best things to do in Costa Maya, you can make the most of your time ashore.

Where Is Costa Maya Cruise Port?

Costa Maya Port is located on the eastern coast of Mexico, near the town of Mahahual. The port was specifically built to accommodate cruise ship passengers and offers a variety of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and activities for tourists to enjoy during their visit.

Is there a beach near Cruise Port in Costa Maya?

Yes, The port itself does not have a beach, but there are several beautiful beaches located within a short distance from the port. One popular option is the Mahahual Beach, which is only about a 10-15 minute taxi ride from the Cruise Port. Mahahual Beach offers pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of beachfront restaurants and bars for visitors to enjoy.

Is Costa Maya and Puerto Costa Maya the same place?

Located on the stunning southeastern coast of Mexico, you can discover Puerto Costa Maya, also known as the Costa Maya cruise port. Situated in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, this picturesque destination is a little over 200 miles south of Cancun and just a short distance north of the Belize border. It is adjacent to the delightful fishing village of Mahahual.

Is Costa Maya Safe?

Costa Maya, a popular cruise port in Mexico, is generally considered safe for tourists. The area is heavily focused on tourism and has security measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Top Things To Do In Costa Maya Cruise Port

By: Author Mona Marks

Posted on Last updated: October 17, 2023

Categories Caribbean , Destination Tips , DESTINATIONS

Home to the legendary Mayan ruins, pristine beaches, and multi-hued aqua lagoons, there are so many things to do in Costa Maya cruise port, so whether you want to swim with dolphins or shop till you drop, this once-in-a-lifetime destination is just waiting to be explored!

Overview of Costa Maya

Located on the spectacular Yucatan Peninsula and adjacent to the Majahual fishing village, Puerto Costa Maya, once a Mayan trading port , is now one of the fastest-growing cruise ports on Mexico’s spectacular Caribbean coastline . 

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico’s newest port, was expressly built to welcome cruise vacation guests to explore its pristine beaches, legendary Mayan ruins, and lush sub-tropical landscapes.

Puerto Costa Maya is frequented by nearly a dozen popular cruise lines, known as a site for good beaches, lush subtropical jungles, and fascinating ancient ruins. 

With several cultural, shopping, entertainment, and recreational facilities, including authentic art galleries, there are so many things to do in the Costa Maya cruise port!

In addition to the three Mayan pavilions, this outstanding port is famous for its unspoiled coastline, rainbow-hued reefs, ancient shipwrecks, and world-class snorkeling, diving, and kayaking adventures which are easily accessible with free Costa Maya shuttles.

Best Beaches In Costa Maya Cruise Port

While Costa Maya is famous for its numerous stunning beaches, only the following were selected as spending a day there is consistently voted as one of the best things to do in Costa Maya cruise port.

Maya Chan Beach

The critically acclaimed Maya Chan Beach Resort is a tropical paradise, and an oasis tucked away from all the hustle and bustle with pristine white beach sand, luminous turquoise water, and wavy palms. 

So, book your spot on the beach at this all-inclusive beach resort for a little sunbathing, or explore the pristine ocean with their glass-bottomed complimentary kayak, or snorkeling gear, then sit back and enjoy freshly grilled lunch with a cocktail in hand.

Nacional Beach Club & Bungalows

If you are looking for a taste of paradise, and a quiet beach, away from the maddening crowds – look no further! 

While the Nacional Beach Club and Bungalows is a private resort, a day pass will grant you access to their exclusive beach, outstanding hospitality, and delicious culinary fare.

Mahahual Beach

With its gentle and shallow aqua-colored water, and easily accessible 600-mile Meso-American Barrier Reef, visiting Mahahual Beach is really one of the best free things to do in Costa Maya, especially if you have your own snorkeling gear!

So, if you want to explore the second biggest barrier reef in the world or introduce your kids to the ocean’s incredible diversity and marine life, spending a sun-drenched day at Mahahual Beach is the best!

Best Activities For Families

There are just so many fun and educational activities for families in the Costa Maya cruise port, and while it was pretty difficult to narrow them down to only a few – here are the best.

Enjoy Swimming With Dolphins

Although wild bottlenose dolphins frequent the entire Yucatan coastline , there are several dolphin centers where your family can experience the sheer thrill of swimming with and interacting with the enchanting animals.

All the dolphin encounters are expertly guided by marine specialists who will teach your kids more about these playful and lovable sea creatures and how to reward them with a little kiss.

Float On The Bacalar Lagoon

Situated in Quintana Roo, the spectacular Bacalar Lagoon, commonly known as the “seven colors lagoon,” is a mere hour’s drive from the Costa Maya cruise port, and outstanding natural beauty must be seen to be believed!

So, grab a few floats or kayaks, or join a boat tour and explore the lake’s shifting blue colors ranging from luminous aqua hues to dark navy blue that changes depending on the depth of the lagoon.

Explore Puerto Costa Maya

You don’t have to venture far as Puerto Costa Maya, as the port has a ton of family-friendly, immersive, and informative activities and shore excursions apart from sunbathing, snorkeling, or swimming.

The Aviarus, with its diverse range of exotic bird species, is a great place to start, then head to Kakaw and indulge in Mexico’s finest sweet treats while learning about the region’s fascinating cocoa history and traditional chocolate-making techniques.

Then pop in at La Consentida distillery to discover the rich history of making tequila in Mexico, and enjoy the delicious taste of one of Mexico’s finest exports.

Mayan Culture in Costa Maya

No visit to Costa Maya is complete without immersing yourself in the ancient roots and traditions of their Mayan culture, which lives on today.

The best way to truly experience the region’s rich cultural heritage is to explore the Mayan ruins at Chacchoben and meet with the local communities who have lived amidst their national treasure to safeguard their heritage and traditions for future generations.

Shopping in Costa Maya

Shopping is one of the best things to do in Costa Maya cruise port, especially if you love gorgeous, vibrantly hued, authentically Mexican bargains! But the best part is that most of the following items are sold in inexpensive stalls dotted throughout Costa Maya.

Costa Maya is famous for its incredible range of durable, rainbow-hued Mayan hammocks that are tightly woven by hand and can last a lifetime. 

The Mayan hammock weaving technique dates back 700 years, and the skill has been passed down through various generations. Interestingly, these hammocks were not only used to sleep in as various babies were conceived and born in them.

Handmade Plates

Mexico is well known for creating stunning, intricately patterned handmade plates that are both stunning yet unique in a wide array of fabulous colors, and it is hard to believe that they are all made by potters and not machines!

The plates are first expertly shaped by hand, then painted in bright colors with eye-catching, symmetrical designs to produce an exquisite piece of art that is almost too good to use for your next dinner party.

Talavera Tiles

Rooted in the ancient Spanish art of making gorgeous tiles, Costa Maya is famous for its incredible array of beautiful tiles that are hand shaped and painted by skilled artisans. So, it’s absolutely no wonder that they are such a sought-after Costa Maya souvenir!

Vanilla Extract

Home to the flat-leaf Vanilla Orchid , Mexico is the birthplace of the aromatic vanilla bean, and thank goodness for that!

So, if you are an avid baker, stock up on a few bottles of authentic vanilla essence at a quarter of the normal supermarket price, which is available in numerous stores dotted throughout Costa Maya.

So now that you’re up to date about the best things to do in Costa Maya and all its best-kept secrets, let’s address any lingering questions you might have about this Caribbean gem.

How Far Is Costa Maya From Cozumel?

While the 198, 5-mile journey from Costa Maya to Cozumel is not a short trip, and your journey can take anything between 5-6 hours, depending on your type of transport, there are various door-to-door operators to choose from. Common modes of transport between Costa Maya and Cozumel include air taxis, busses, shuttles, and ferries; however, it all depends on your budget.

Is Costa Maya Considered Caribbean?

Costa Maya has the distinction of being the only state in Mexico towards the east of the Caribbean coastline. The cruise port is also adjacent to the Chetumal, which is situated on the Belize border.

Is Costa Maya Safe?

Overall, Costa Maya is incredibly safe, especially because the entire region depends on the income generated from tourism. The area is known for its friendly and welcoming local population, which differs from other destinations as they are not pushy, and most speak English. 

Closing Thoughts

As you can see there are so many things to do in Costa Maya cruise port. Enjoy beaches and water sports, or take the opportunity to explore Mayan ruins or do a little local shopping. We love visiting this slice of Mexico and are sure you will too!

Keep up with the latest cruise tips and insights! Follow us on Pinterest:

Related articles.

Free Beaches in Costa Maya

By AuTiger7 , February 12, 2010 in Costa Maya

Recommended Posts

Are there free family friendly public beaches in Costa Maya? If so, how do you get to them?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Walk thru the cruise center out the back, and take a taxi to the little fishing village of Majualhual ($3/pp if I remember right). It's like, a 5 minute ride. The whole shoreline of the little town is beach...............lovely, lovely beach. It's lined with small thatched roofed restaurants, bars, massage tables, some have hammocks. Pick a spot you like, and sit down. All they ask is that you buy perhaps a drink, or some food. The water is calm, you can see the ships in the distance. It's one of our favorite places to "beach it". There are also lots of small vendor tables on the other side of the street, so you can get your shopping done, too. If you search the boards here, you'll find more info. Have fun!

Well, I supposed "family friendly" may mean different things to different people, but I didn't see any topless or nude bathing anywhere while I was there. Within walking distance of the pier is a commercial complex that includes beach and I think it was free to use the beach, but it's somewhat rocky. Most people take a $2 taxi (it's actually a bus) about 5 minutes to Majahaul, which is the local town, which has a long waterfront with many public beach spots. You may need to purchase beverages/food to use the beach in some spots since they are in front of various establishments. It is then $3 to get back to the pier. I don't recall seeing any beaches that had children's playground equipment or anything like that though. And I also think there was probably alcoholic beverages in play on most of the beaches. And people getting $20 massages.

travelnman70

We took our 2 kids, age 6 and 11 to Costa Maya last January and they had a blast on the beach in Mahahual. It was very quiet that day, but they ended up meeting some other little kids and building sand castles and playing in the water all afternoon. The fact that the reef pretty much blocks all of the surf, the water is calm and very shallow, which makes it great for kids. There are also tons of restaurants that will let you use their beach chairs and stuff, if you buy a few drinks or food from them.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail on Sun Princess®
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Thursday at 08:52 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 07:30 PM

LauraS · Started June 25

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Flannels or FlipFlops

Don't Leave Costa Maya Without Doing These Amazing Things!

Posted: June 28, 2024 | Last updated: June 28, 2024

Welcome to the Caribbean! The Costa Maya Cruise Port is one of the most fantastic and sought-after destinations.

With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and ancient Mayan ruins, it’s not surprising that it has become a favorite spot for visitors from all over the world.

However, there are so many amazing things to do in this Caribbean port that you may not know where to start!

From visiting stunning archaeological sites to swimming with dolphins in crystal-clear waters, there are plenty of activities that will make your time here unforgettable.

So if you’re looking for an exciting and enjoyable cruise experience, read on as we explore some of the best things to do in Costa Maya Mexico and the surrounding areas!

1. Chacchoben

If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to the nearby Chacchoben Ruins. These impressive ruins are just a short drive away from the cruise port and will let you explore some of the ancient temples and artifacts that were left behind by the Mayans hundreds of years ago.

Chacchoben Ruins are about 50-minute drive from the cruise port, so it’s best to take a tour.

This is one of the most popular tours of Chacchoben. It includes air-conditioned transportation to the ruins and a guide to point out all of the highlights and has a “back to the ship” guarantee.

2. Kohunlich Ruins

Kohunlich Ruins are some of the oldest Mayan ruins in Costa Maya and make for an interesting day trip. This archaeological site features various plazas and structures, as well as large masks carved into stone.

You can also find hieroglyphs throughout the area that tell a story about this ancient culture. Kohunlich is about two hours from the cruise port, so it’s best to take a tour.

This Kohunlich shore excursion will include round-trip transportation by air-conditioned coach and an expert guide who will provide all the information you need about this fascinating archaeological site.

Read more about Ruins You Should Visit At Least Once In Your Lifetime

3. Fuerte San Felipe, Bacalar

Fort Bacalar is an amazing place to visit when you are in Costa Maya. It was built over 250 years ago and has stories of pirates, Mayans, and Spanish settlers.

It is full of history and secrets that you can explore while there.

4. Mahahual Beach

Mahahual Beach is a great spot for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. With its white sand and crystal-clear water, this beach will make you feel like you’re in paradise. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and bars along the beach for when you need to take a break

This is the closest beach to the cruise port, and therefore is definitely the most crowded, so if you are looking for isolation or peace and quiet, this isn’t the beach for me. If you take a tour while in port, you will likely end up at Mahaual Beach at the end of your tour.

5. Maya Chan Beach

Book a day at Maya Chan and you won’t regret it – despite being the farthest beach away from the Costa Maya cruise port, this beach’s top-rated option provides plenty of activities to make up for it.

You have to book a reservation at Maya Chan similar to a shore excursion and they will reserve a cabana for you.

The Maya Chan team will collect you at the port and take you back when it’s time to depart, a journey of approximately 20 minutes.

Relax and soak up the sun in your own private cabana, complete with two comfortable chairs, a bed, and even a hammock. Plus – they will deliver delicious food and drinks right to you! (Chips, salsa, Guacamole, Rum punch).

Indulge in an impressive taco buffet for lunch, and enjoy a selection of specialty drinks from the bar all day long!

The beach’s staff works diligently to ensure that the seagrass is cleared from the shoreline, thus allowing you to take full advantage of the beach. If you prefer, you can hang out in their freshwater pool.

They also have kayaks, snorkel gear, and floating beach mats for use and will deliver you drinks by kayak while you are in the water.

6. YaYa Beach

YaYa Beach is a great spot if you want to get away from it all. The secluded beach is located in the Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, and there are no crowds here.

You can enjoy snorkeling 408 , kayaking, swimming, or just relaxing under one of the many palapas on the shoreline. It’s a great spot to enjoy the Caribbean sunshine and nature!

Just a 10-minute ride away from the cruise port, Yaya beach is readily accessible via taxi or shuttle for around $4 per person to and from Costa Maya.

One drawback to this beach option is the numerous local vendors trying to sell things to you throughout the day.

You can purchase a day pass for YaYa Beach with different options with a $5 deposit.

7. Pez Quadro Beach Club

To experience one of the most beautiful beaches in Mahahual, take advantage of this day pass to gain access and revel in the Pez Quadro Beach Club, located at 40 Cañones Hotel.

In addition to your day of beachside bliss, get exclusive access to a complimentary open bar and 1-course lunch, luxury lounge chairs, sparkling bathrooms, and showers, plus Wi-Fi.

8. Dolphin Discovery

If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, check out Dolphin Discovery. The facility offers the opportunity to swim with dolphins and explore the natural beauty of Costa Maya.

With the Maya Chan team’s expertise, visitors can learn about local marine life, enjoy a variety of delicious food and drinks, and relax and soak up the sun in hammocks on the beach.

At Dolphin Discovery , visitors can take part in Dolphin Encounter, Royal Swim, and Special Swims activities. Guests will also receive exclusive access to a private beach and lagoon where they can relax after swimming with dolphins.

If you are already dive certified, consider booking a guided dive tour while visiting Costa Maya. Professional dive instructors can take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the Caribbean.

From underwater Cenotes and caves to coral gardens and rock formations, you will see it all while exploring Costa Maya’s underwater world.

Read more about Scuba Spots That Are Basically Underwater Heaven 408

10. Paddle Board, Kayak, or Jet Ski

If you want to explore the local coastline, why not rent a paddleboard, kayak, or jet ski? All of these are great ways to get out and about on the water.

Rentals are available from local vendors near the cruise port and offer easy access to the waters around Costa Maya. You can explore the coastline at your own pace, or join a guided tour for the ultimate experience.

Exploring the Caribbean’s Most Spectacular Snorkeling Spots

Dive into the beauty of the Caribbean's top snorkeling destinations—discover vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.

Read more here!

How This Caribbean Island Stole the Spotlight for 2024’s Travel Scene

Find out why this Caribbean island is 2024’s must-visit destination, captivating travelers worldwide.

More for You

Clarence Thomas Warns of 'Danger' After Supreme Court Decision

Utah stars in Kevin Costner's new movie

Popular Candy Recalled After Nearly Two Dozen Illnesses Are Reported

Is long-term care insurance worth it for a 65 year-old?

The 3-Mile High Tsunami That Smashed Into The East Coast

15 best true crime documentaries you need to be watching on Netflix

Joe Biden Suffers Gaffe as Democrats Question Candidacy

Wrap Sandals Made a Statement on the 2024 BET Awards Red Carpet

Shell halts construction of giant biofuel factory

8 Creative Ways To Cover A Muddy Pathway On The Side Of Your Home

McDonald's permanently removes beloved item from menu after 35 years amid 'lack of interest'

Top 20 ‘rudest’ cities in America – is yours on the list?

Supreme Court decision upends Biden administration’s rules for EVs and emissions

Rohit Sharma's wife Ritika Sajdeh shares heartbreaking photos from Barbados as hurricane ravages Caribbean islands

24 New York City Restaurants That Are Worth the Trip

The Right to Clean a Bird Feeder, According to an Ornithologist

Huge Impact Crater Discovered in America Is 3X the Size of the Grand Canyon

Kylie Kelce Recaps Her Trip to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Shares Why She Was 'Fangirl' in the VIP Section

A bridge near a Minnesota dam may collapse. Officials say they can do little to stop it

Fact Check: Biden Said He Brought Down Insulin Costs to $15 Per Shot. Here's What's True and What's Not

Celebrity Blog

• Special Occasions
• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

12 Best Cenotes in the Riviera Maya

By Kieran Meeke

Last updated: June 26th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

With some 6,000 or more cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, about 150 are open to visitors, swimmers, and divers. So there’s plenty of choice when you’re looking to cool off in the best cenotes in the Riviera Maya.

The word cenote comes from the Yucatec Maya word “ts’onot”, meaning abyss or sinkhole. Cenotes exist because Yucatan is mainly formed from limestone. There are no rivers here, as any rain just disappears into its porous limestone. These underground flows form caverns and where they collapse, you have a cenote.

Cenotes are magical places where you can swim in cool, fresh water on the hottest of days. The Maya regarded them as sacred and precious items have been found by archaeologists in many cenotes, thrown in as offerings to the gods.

Today, as well as their spiritual significance, cenotes are wonderful places to swim, snorkel, dive, and simply enjoy the cave systems and lush greenery.

Casa Tortuga Cenote

This beautiful cenote, 45 minutes from Playa del Carmen, is within an eco-adventure park on the Caribbean coast. It’s one of the most accessible in Yucatan, a classic large pool surrounded by jungle.

There are actually four cenotes at Casa Tortuga, two open water and two caves. The main open pool, Tres Zapotes, is about 200 feet in diameter and up to 60 feet deep but with plenty of shallower areas for novice swimmers.

Wooden platforms and stairs allow you to access the water easily, but do bring water shoes to move around in. As with most cenotes, the temperature of the water is a refreshing 75°F year-round.

Being semi-open, this cenote is a lovely space to enjoy splashing around in. Sunlight filters through the greenery to make a wonderful tropical picture.

You can snorkel or swim surrounded by colorful fish. As the “Tortuga” name implies, there are also turtles here, which you may spot.

Read: Best Beaches in the Riviera Maya

Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos, or “Two Eyes” in Spanish takes its name from its two main cenotes, both open to the air. They are connected by a large underwater cave system, making for a mini adventure to explore.

One of the most famous cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula, Dos Ojos is a 90-minute drive from Playa del Carmen. It’s well-signposted and easy to reach from the main highway.

Surrounded by lush green tropical jungle, the scenic setting is a photographer’s dream. Underwater photographers will also enjoy the crystal clear water, home to many fish and even turtles.

The cenote has both shallow and deeper sections, making it perfect for novice and experienced snorkelers. You’ll find that the light filtering through the water and the strange rock formations make for an extraordinary experience.

Certified divers come from all around the world to explore the intricate cave network. One section inhabited by bats—naturally dubbed “The Bat Cave”—is an extra thrill for divers.

Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote, one of the best cenotes near Cancun, is about two hours from Tulum. A striking prominent feature is a wooden deck from which you can easily reach the water.

Before going in, you have to take a shower to remove any sunscreen. This is a common practice for cenotes, designed to help protect the delicate ecological balance of the water.

Swimming in a cenote is one of the best things to do in Mexico , and here, you’ll be among fish and turtles in open water that is perfectly clear. If you are brave enough, there is also a darker cave passage you can go through to reach a second pool.

Gran Cenote is part of a much larger cave system with both open and roofed sections. Go deeper into the caves and you’ll see stalactites and stalagmites.

While you can rent both diving and snorkeling gear here, you might want to bring your own goggles or mask to any cenote. That always ensures a more comfortable fit, making for a more enjoyable experience.

Cenote Jardín del Edén

Cenote Jardin del Eden, or the “Garden of Eden”, is near Puerto Aventuras, off Highway 307 some 15 miles south of Playa del Carmen. Its name perfectly captures the idyllic beauty of this pool of crystal-clear water, one of the loveliest cenotes in the Riviera Maya.

The large pool is from 10 to 50 feet deep, making it popular for diving as well as swimming. There are a number of spots on the rocks suitable for cliff jumping.

The rock formations continue underwater, giving snorkelers a view of some dramatic shapes. These changes in depth bring different colors to the water, while dappled sunlight filtering in adds to the spectacle.

Visibility is normally very good and you’ll see plenty of tiny fish. The limestone rock acts as a natural filter for any groundwater that finds its way into the cenote.

Afterward, relax with a picnic in the shade of some trees. The greenery overhangs the pool’s edges, making up an image that perfectly illustrates where its “Garden of Eden”  name comes from.

Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Cristalino is also outside Puerto Aventuras, very close to Cenote Jardín del Edén. Its name reflects its clear blue-green water, colored by invisible limestone particles.

This semi-open cenote is in a striking setting, surrounded by jungle. As with Cenote Jardín del Edén, you can swim, snorkel, or cliff jump.

Depending on the time of day, parts of the pool are in shade, others in sunshine. There are also plenty of overhangs and underwater caves to add interest.

The shallower areas, where depths range from three feet to 20 feet, are perfect for novice swimmers or snorkelers. There are lockers, restrooms, and a small snack bar.

With any cenote, it’s a good idea to bring along a waterproof camera, as well as a dry bag for your belongings. Any dry bag is also a good place for storing your wet swimming costume and any towels afterward.

Cenote Chaak Tun

Cenote Chaak Tun, one of the very best cenotes in the Riviera Maya, is near the ancient Mayan ruins of Cobá. Its name means “Stone of the Rain God”, after the Maya rain god, Chaac.

This cenote is almost perfectly round, and nearly 200 feet across. At 75 feet deep, it was an important ceremonial center for the Maya, as is revealed by ancient stone steps.

Artifacts found here include ceramic pots with food remains, elaborately carved incense burners, and precious jade beads. This evidence points to it being a sacred site associated with the nearby city at Cobá.

The cenote was formed by the collapse of a large underground cave, and you can still see stalactites and stalagmites. The surrounding jungle envelopes the fallen edges, making for a picturesque view.

You can swim or snorkel in the cool, transparent water, or dive down to explore the underwater cave systems. The clear blue water here has given the cenote the nickname of “The Blue Hole”.

Cenote Aktun Chen

Another significant cenote near the Maya ruins of Cobá, Aktun Chen means “Ceramic Pot”. Pots, incense burners, and previous jade objects were found thrown into the cenote as ancient offerings.

The jade found here included beads, earrings, masks, and daggers. There were also pendants in the shape of humans and jaguars.

The Maya prized jade for its beauty and green jade was associated with water, life, and fertility. The amount found here suggests this was a very important spiritual site.

The sinkhole is around 197 feet in diameter, with depths of up to 100 feet. Shallower areas are served by a wooden platform, and lifejackets are mandated for all visitors.

Like most cenotes, the limestone walls have many centuries of deposits that make up interesting shapes. There are also some strange acoustics within the cavern that no doubt added to its otherworldliness for the Maya.

Cenote Taak Bi Ha

Very close to Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Tak Bi Ha is easy to visit on the same tour. It’s a massive sinkhole, notable for its sheer walls and abundance of stalactites.

The name Tak Bi Ha means “Water of the Carved Step”, a reference to the stone steps allowing access. There are also some Maya buildings, many ceremonial, around the rim.

This is one of the best places to snorkel in Mexico as much of the pool is shallow, making the water appear even clearer. Its pretty blue color is perfect for some lovely photographic memories.

Archaeologists found many sacrificial objects here, ranging from precious jade pieces to musical ocarinas. These small ceramic wind instruments were often found in the shape of a frog, possibly being used in rituals to call for rain.

The Maya saw cenotes as portals to the underworld, the home of their deities, and a place to commune with the afterlife. As a source of water and hence life, these sinkholes were central to their physical and spiritual lives.

Cenote Chikin Ha

Chikin Ha—“Water of the West”—lies west of Cobá, and is made up of three cenotes. The main sinkhole is some 165 feet in diameter, with stone steps leading you down to the surface 80 feet below.

This cenote is split into two by a roofed passage that is great fun to swim through. You may come across divers who are allowed access to some deeper passageways.

A smaller, shallower cenote is perfect for children or less confident swimmers. No one could blame you for feeling chills in these cenotes, with their ancient sacrificial history.

A third cenote is not open to swimmers but makes an interesting sight. A guide will explain its ritual significance, and you might spot some bats or mot-mot birds.

Cenote Nicte-Ha

The many lilies floating on the surface of Cenote Nicte-Ha give it its name. Nicte-Ha translates as “Water of the Flower Bud” in the Mayan language.

It’s another large open-air pool some 130 feet in diameter, perfect for swimming. There are stone steps that take you down 65 feet to the water.

The steps are an indication this cenote was of ritual significance in centuries past. Archaeologists have found ceramics, jade, and incense burners, among other artifacts.

The lilies and the exposed tree roots hanging down its walls, make this cenote one of the most picturesque in Yucatan. It’s protected within the Coba ecological park so you can help the ecosystem here by wearing a rash-vest rather than sunscreen.

Read: Mexican Culture & Traditions

Cenote Tajma Ha

Standing about 20 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tajma Ha’s name was inspired by India’s majestic Taj Mahal. Called that by early European explorers, an inspired punster gave it the name of Tajma Ha, meaning “Hidden Water”.

This is a cenote for divers with some experience, as there are some narrow passages and good buoyancy control is important. Non-diving companions can enjoy watching out for “mot-mots”, the colorful tropical birds the Maya consider guardians of the cenotes.

Dive into its dark depths and you can understand why the Maya thought cenotes were the gateway to the underworld. Looking back up, you see multiple beams of sunlight dappling the surface.

A halocline of salt water meeting fresh water can create a startling mirror effect under certain conditions. What’s more, projections in the rock underwater look like moving faces or other creatures of the imagination in the changing light.

Cenote Chempita

Cenote Chempita Photo by JillRG on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 4.0

Cenote Chempita translates to “Jade Cavern”, and you’ll understand why when you see it. Its vibrant emerald color comes from suspended limestone particles catching the sunlight.

Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Cozumel , where you can swim in the clear water and enjoy a 20 foot jump off the cliff. Remnants of the roof overhang parts of the central pool, offering shade and stalactites.

El Cedral, Cozumel

The cenote is near El Cedral in the center of Cozumel . It’s reached by an adventurous 30-minute journey by 4×4 or ATV on dirt tracks amid thick jungle.

The cave was once used by the Maya for ceremonial rituals and its history is well worth hearing from one of the local guides. This is also a chance, here in the heart of the tropical forest, to hear about the local flora and fauna.

This cenote also has bats which, while fascinating, can give it a sulfurous air if it hasn’t rained for a while. Time your visit for the wet season to avoid this.

Has this guide to the best cenotes in the Riviera Maya tempted you to take the plunge? Then browse our Mexico cruises to find the perfect vacation.

Kieran Meeke

Kieran is a freelance travel writer who has lived and worked in 12 different countries, on every continent except Antarctica. He now spends his time between Kerry, Ireland, and Granada, Spain, while writing for newspapers and websites worldwide.

Related Itineraries

Bahamas, Mexico & Cayman

• 6 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day

• 6 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND

New Orleans & The Caribbean

• 9 nights ON CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION
• DEPARTING FROM TAMPA, FLORIDA
• 7 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND

Ultimate Caribbean & The Americas

• 12 nights ON CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION

Related Articles

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cozumel?

11 Unforgettable Adventures in Belize

10 Best Beaches in the Riviera Maya

Mexican Culture & Traditions: What to Know Before You Go

15 Best Beaches in St. Maarten

16 Best Things to Do in Ocho Rios

Puerto Rico vs. Costa Rica: Which Should You Visit?

Fall in Spain: 9 Incredible Experiences

Where to Find the Best Pizza in the World

When Is the Best Time to Visit Canada?

11 Best Spots for Surfing in Puerto Rico

7 Best Places to Visit in South America

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

I would like to receive electronic Promotional messages from Celebrity Cruises Inc. You can unsubscribe at anytime. Please view our Privacy Policy .

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

Watch CBS News

Hurricane Beryl maps show path and landfall forecast

By Cara Tabachnick , Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: July 3, 2024 / 3:06 AM EDT / CBS News

Hurricane Beryl  is expected to reach Jamaica Wednesday after making landfall two days earlier as a  powerful Category 4  storm on the island of Carriacou in Grenada while tearing through the Caribbean, strengthening at times to a Category 5 storm — the  strongest rating .

What is the projected path of Hurricane Beryl?

The U.S. National Hurricane Center said early Wednesday that the center of Beryl "is forecast to pass near or over Jamaica on later today ... near or over the Cayman Islands tonight or early Thursday and approach the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico Thursday night.

"Weakening is forecast during the next day or two. However, Beryl is forecast to be at or near major hurricane intensity while it passes near Jamaica later today and the Cayman Islands tonight. Additional weakening is expected thereafter, though Beryl is forecast to remain a hurricane in the northwestern Caribbean."

A hurricane is considered major when it's a  Category 3 or higher , with winds of at least 111 mph. As of early Wednesday, Beryl was a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 145 mph, the hurricane center said.

Beryl was about about 250 miles east-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica and was moving west-northwest at 22 mph, according to the center.

Beryl became the  first hurricane  of the 2024  Atlantic hurricane season  on Saturday and rapidly strengthened. It first reached Category 4 on Sunday, wavering back to Category 3 before returning to Category 4 on Monday and then becoming a Category 5 later Monday night. It is the first major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles on record for June, according to Philip Klotzbach, Colorado State University hurricane researcher.

Brian McNoldy, a tropical meteorology researcher for the University of Miami, told The Associated Press warm waters are fueling Beryl, with ocean heat content in the deep Atlantic the highest on record for this time of year.

Beryl has also set records as the first June hurricane ever to hit Category 4, the farthest east a storm has ever hit Category 4, and the first storm before September to go from tropical depression to major hurricane in under 48 hours, CBS News weather producer David Parkinson reported.

Beryl was also the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin and was only the second Category 5 storm recorded in July since 2005, according to the hurricane center.

A hurricane warning was posted for Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac. A hurricane watch was in effect for Haiti's southern coast and the Yucatan's east coast. Belize issued a tropical storm watch stretching south from its border with Mexico to Belize City. A tropical storm watch was also in place for the east coast of Belize, from Chetumal south to Belize City. 

Where will Hurricane Beryl bring rain and flooding?

The hurricane center said Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Haiti were likely to see heavy rains and life-threatening flash flooding.  

"Hurricane Beryl is expected to produce rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches, with localized maxima of 12 inches, across Jamaica and the southwestern Haitian Peninsula through late Wednesday," the center said. "Beryl will also produce rainfall amounts of 4 to 8 inches with isolated amounts of 10 inches across the Barahona Peninsula in southwest Dominican Republic. Isolated totals of 6 inches or more are also anticipated across the mountainous terrain in the central Dominican Republic. This rainfall is likely to cause flash flooding and mudslides."

"Beryl is also expected to produce rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches with localized maxima of 6 inches over the Cayman Islands today into Thursday," the center added. "Over the Yucatan Peninsula into northern Belize, Beryl is expected to produce rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches with localized maxima of 6 inches in the northeastern Yucatan Peninsula Thursday into Friday."

— David Parkinson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

More from CBS News

Hurricane Beryl is a historic storm. Here's why.

Hurricane Beryl, a major Category 4 storm, bearing down on Jamaica

Beryl leaves trail of devastation in Caribbean islands: "The situation is grim"

Hurricane Beryl damages or destroys 90% of homes on one island, leader says

Beryl becomes 'extremely dangerous' Category 4 hurricane expected to bring life-threatening conditions to Caribbean

Hurricane Beryl has become an "extremely dangerous" Category 4 storm as it inches closer to the Windward Islands, bringing life-threatening winds and storm surge to the Caribbean, the National Hurricane Center said Sunday.

Beryl expanded its strength for two days, reaching Category 4 strength on a scale of 5 on Sunday before leveling off, the center said in a late-afternoon advisory.

With sustained winds of 130 mph, the storm was likely to be a destructive force through the early week as it aimed for a possible clash with Mexico's Yucatán peninsula around next weekend, according to the hurricane center.

"Fluctuations in strength are common in major hurricanes in conducive environments, and it is expected that Beryl will also fluctuate in strength for the next day or so," the center said in a separate forecast discussion. "There is high confidence that Beryl will remain an extremely dangerous hurricane through landfall in the Windward Islands."

Its center is expected to move across the Windward Islands early Monday, with hurricane conditions, including heavy rain, expected Sunday evening, the agency said.

The Windward Islands include St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada and Martinique. As of Sunday night, Beryl was about 200 miles southeast of Barbados with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph. It was moving northwest at around 18 mph.

A U.S. hurricane warning is in effect for Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada and Tobago, where hurricane conditions are possible starting early Monday.

The government of Barbados began opening emergency shelters Sunday evening and ordered all businesses to close by 7 p.m. The Barbados Water Authority asked residents to store potable water as it would shut down water lines across the island Sunday night as a precaution, according to a statement.

The Barbados government said the center of the hurricane would travel 75 to 80 miles south of Barbados sometime Monday morning.

Government forecasters said the hurricane could pulse with renewed strength as it passes beneath Barbados, with winds associated with the storm projected to reach near 145 mph.

Flash flooding and hurricane-force winds are likely, the government said. Barbados officials also warned of a low pressure system behind Beryl that could become a tropical depression and affect the country Wednesday if it continues apace.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Martinique, and tropical storm watches are in effect for Dominica and Trinidad, which could all experience tropical storm conditions Sunday night.

“Potentially catastrophic wind damage is expected where the eyewall of Beryl moves through portions of the Windward Islands, with the highest risk of the core in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada,” the hurricane center said.

Life-threatening storm surges may raise water levels by 6 to 9 feet above normal tide levels in the hurricane watch areas and bring destructive waves to the coast.

Three to 6 inches of rain is possible across Barbados and the Windward Islands on Sunday into Monday, which may cause flooding in some areas. Up to 10 inches of rain is possible in some areas, especially in the Grenadines.

St. Lucia Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre announced a national shutdown as a result of the hurricane warning that will go into effect Sunday 8:30 p.m. local time. He did not say when it will be lifted. Schools will remain closed Monday, and “employers are expected to cooperate,” he said.

In a Facebook post, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority asked the public to “remain indoors and away from glass windows once tropical hurricane-force winds affect the area.”

“All persons should avoid entering the ocean. Failure to comply with this request puts human lives at risk, including those of our first responders,” the board said. The board also encouraged tourists to contact their airlines to schedule flights home.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has canceled all police leave in preparation for Beryl.

“All officers are requested to report to the nearest police station by 6:00 p.m. today, Sunday, June 30, 2024,” it s a id on Fa cebook .

In Grenada, a state of emergency will go into effect at 7 p.m. Sunday and remain for a week, “unless earlier revoked,” Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell said at a briefing.

The country’s National Disaster Management Agency encouraged the public to secure three days of nonperishable food and water as Beryl makes impact. Those in areas susceptible to storm surge were encouraged to move to one of the shelters opened across Grenada.

Mitchell warned the public that “this is not a drill.”

“We need to be calm, we need to pray, but most importantly we need to prepare,” Mitchell said.

All police leave has also been canceled in Grenada, and officers were asked to return to work, according to Mitchell.

Breaking news reporter

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.