costa maya cruise port bars

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 .

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 *

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.

Guide to the Costa Maya Cruise Port In Mexico

Posted on Published: 05/22/2024

When the Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Seas cruise we were planning to take over February break switched ports of call due to some port closures, I didn’t mind. Although I did love the original ports, I was excited to check out a new-to-us port of call, Costa Maya. I had heard some great things about the Puerto Costa Maya cruise port and looked forward to seeing it myself.

The port of Costa Maya is located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, on the Yucatan peninsula. It’s bordered by the Caribbean Sea and is in the Western Caribbean.

It’s located near the small fishing village of Mahahual village and is south of Cancun. Unlike Cozumel, which is an island, Costa Maya is located on the mainland of Mexico.

Disclosure: I did take a complimentary media cruise on the Odyssey of the Seas, but we did pay full price for this sailing. We also paid full price for our day in Costa Maya.

Upon arriving in Costa Maya, we had a beautiful view of the expansive port. In my experience, it’s one of the larger ports that I’ve seen.

As you exit your cruise ship, you’ll enter the port area. Be sure to follow your ship’s instructions for what to bring (and not to bring) off the ship.

Typically, you’ll need your ship key card and a photo ID, as well as your wallet with cash/credit cards, and towels from your ship. Like other international ports, you won’t be able to bring any fresh produce with you.

Port Amenities at the Cruise Terminal

Once you enter the port, you’ll see the expansive amenities available to guests right at the port. It is a pretty long walk off the pier, so make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes .

If you haven’t planned any excursions or activities in advance, I would still recommend getting off the ship in Costa Maya. There’s so much to do right there.

The first thing you’ll see is a last-minute tour desk, where you can book an excursion. This is a great option for those who haven’t yet planned anything but still want to do a port excursion.

However, if you have something you really want to do in Costa Maya, I’d recommend booking it in advance. These tours can be booked up, especially if there are multiple large cruise ships in port. Several different cruise lines visit the Costa Maya cruise terminal.

Other amenities at the port include an ATM (US currency), bathrooms, Wifi, and a taxi stand. You can also book golf carts to use to explore locally.

Port Activities In Costa Maya

Unlike some of the other Caribbean ports I’ve traveled to, Puerto Costa Maya is a destination in itself. Guests can choose to purchase a port pass (similar to a day pass), which includes admission to the on-site aviary with tropical birds, Kakaw Chocolate Factory, the tequila museum, and three complimentary house drinks. This can be a great option if you want to stay nearby and just explore the port, and it’s one of the popular shore excursions.

All of these activities can also be explored and visited individually. On our sailing, the cruise line offered discounted aviary tickets as one of the Costa Maya excursions.

In addition, the port offers a large swimming pool with lounge chairs, multiple restaurants and bars, a Mexican market, shops, a fish spa, and more. You could easily spend a lot of time exploring the shops. It’s a beautiful port area.

The Dolphin Discovery excursion takes place right at the port and can be booked on the ship. Again, this is something I would book in advance if you are interested.

There’s also the Mayan Wellness Retreat, which includes a spa experience that runs for a little over an hour. This can also be booked as an excursion on the ship. Because of the short duration of this experience, you can also combine it with some other activities at the port.

If you aren’t traveling with kids and just want to relax and enjoy the area, I think the tequila tasting followed by some time at the pool enjoying a cocktail would be a fun experience.

Excursions From The Cruise Port

Would you rather book an excursion for the surrounding Costa Maya area? Check your cruise line’s offerings because ours had plenty of fun shore excursion options. Typical Costa Maya excursions include the following:

Chacchoben Mayan ruins tour : The ruins of Chacchoben are located about 50-60 minutes from the port, and the tours run about four hours. If you book this archaeological site tour, you should have some time when you return to explore the Costa Maya port before boarding your ship.

Seven Colors Lagoon : Excursions to this popular freshwater lagoon typically include transportation, food, and drink while you are there. You will probably need to bring towels from the ship. Don’t forget your sunscreen.

Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom (closed) : While the Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom theme water park was a popular excursion in Costa Maya with zip lines and water slides, it is now closed.

Other excursions in Costa Maya include cenotes tours, all-inclusive beach breaks, and other ruins tours.

Maya Chan Beach

If you’d like to enjoy a beach day in Mexico on your Caribbean cruise, you’ll find that there are several options of beautiful beach clubs that are available as privately booked excursions along the beach area. This means that you’ll need to book one of these all-inclusive beach clubs on your own – not through your cruise line.

There are some risks that come with this. You’ll need to make sure you make it to your ship before all-aboard time.

It’s also important that you know the cancellation and refund policy, in case your ship can’t stop at the port or if the itinerary changes at the last minute. When you book a ship excursion, it will be refunded in those circumstances but that may not always be the case if you book for something on your own.

When we were visiting Costa Maya, I knew that we wanted to spend a relaxing day on the beach. I had heard about Maya Chan Beach – one of the more popular destinations among cruise passengers.

We decided to book it. It ended up being the best cruise ship excursion that we’ve done due to the service, food, and atmosphere.

Overview of Maya Chan Beach

Maya Chan Beach is a private beach resort located in Mahahual. It offers a beach-front location, beach loungers with lots of shade, games, a pool, clean restrooms, WiFi, several beach bars (plus lounge chair service), a small gift shop, and more. Transportation in cabs to and from the port is included and organized for you, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Maya Chan Beach is very popular, and they cap the number of visitors per day. So, it’s important to book ahead.

Getting To Maya Chan Beach

Once you purchase your admission, you’ll be given instructions for finding the transportation. You’ll need to make your way out of the port to a small location outside.

There, you can meet your guide who will arrange your transportation in small groups. It’s a bit of a ride to the beach.

It was a long walk to the end of the port, but we felt that it was pretty easy to find the meeting spot. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, towels, and anything else you’ll need for the day.

Once we arrived at Maya Chan, we were given an overview of the property and directed to our chairs for the day. Because all reservations are made in advance, your seating area will be waiting for you.

Our party of four had an open pergola with a beach bed, multiple chairs, a hammock, and a table. Seating areas vary depending on party size but you are guaranteed a beach chair for each guest and a beach bed at each seating location.

Food at Maya Chan

We were greeted with a rum punch (nonalcoholic for the kids) as well as homemade chips and salsa. Servers continuously come around taking drink orders, and even offered milkshakes for the kids.

When lunch is ready, you’ll be treated to a buffet filled with a homemade Mexican lunch of tacos, soup, beans, rice, and more. We absolutely loved this authentic Mayan-inspired meal – especially the fish and pork.

Amenities at Maya Chan

It’s hard to explain in words how special Maya Chan is. The amenities, including beach floats, floating chairs, sand toys, showers, snorkel equipment, outdoor games, the pool, and the waterfront location are definitely beautiful. But the service is top-notch, and you won’t want to leave.

All of the seating areas are conveniently located near the Caribbean Sea. Like other locations in this area, there is some seaweed in the water at times. But Maya Chan does have employees actively raking it out of the way.

After lunch, an employee comes around to find out what time you’d like to leave the beach. A cab will be ordered for you, so you’ll be able to leave whenever you’d like, and won’t have to worry about finding a ride back.

If you are interested in booking a day at Maya Chan, I recommend booking it as early as possible since capacity is limited. You can find information on their website .

They do generally close over the summer during hurricane season. You can find the latest dates and information on their website.

Have you been to Costa Maya? What excursions do you recommend?

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

What To Do In Costa Maya Cruise Port, Complete Guide

Today we are sharing our complete guide on what to do in Costa Maya cruise port terminal—located in Quintana Roo on the Eastern Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, near the small town of Mahahual. It is a popular destination for cruise ships and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors.

Once ashore, visitors can explore the town of Mahahual. This is within walking distance from the port . Mahahual was originally a fishing village and has retained its charm, offering a laid-back and authentic Mexican experience. The town features a long beach promenade, the Malecón, lined with colorful shops, beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy the beach and sample local cuisine.

AD We have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy and privacy policy for more details.

What To Do In Costa Maya Cruise Port

Where do cruise ships dock in costa maya cruise port.

The Puerto Costa Maya cruise port on Mexico’s Caribbean coast lies just south of the Belize border. The port is well-equipped to handle cruise vessels, with four berths accommodating up to 150,000 gross tons of ships . A tender system is also available to transfer passengers when the port experiences high traffic.

Established in 2007, Puerto Costa Maya is a relatively new port designed in the likeness of a Mayan city. The entrance to the terminal building features a grand Mayan archway, and within, you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, and tourist information booths.

If you’re embarking on a cruise to Costa Maya, it’s highly likely that you’ll dock at the Puerto Costa Maya cruise port. This well-designed and accessible port serves as an excellent gateway to explore the region’s diverse attractions.

How to get around Costa Maya?

Getting around Costa Maya is relatively easy and convenient, offering several transportation options for visitors. If you’re staying within the port area, walking is a popular choice as you can explore the shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot. 

Taxis are readily available at the port, allowing you to travel to nearby destinations or attractions. Additionally, many  cruise ships  offer organised shore excursions, providing transportation, guided tours, and pre-planned itineraries for exploring the area.

Renting a car from local agencies near the port allows you to explore independently but familiarise yourself with local traffic rules and parking options. For a unique experience, you might find bicycle or golf cart rentals near the port, providing a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.

Before making any transportation decisions, check with local authorities or your cruise ship staff for the most up-to-date information and recommendations on navigating Costa Maya.

Can you Walk to Town and the Activities From Costa Maya Terminal?

It’s possible to walk to the town from the Costa Maya Terminal. The terminal is located near the town of Mahahual, which is approximately a 10-15 minute walk away. You can stroll along the Malecón, the vibrant boardwalk parallel to the beach, and explore the shops, restaurants, and bars in town.

Walking from the Costa Maya terminal to the town and activities provides flexibility. Plus, you can take in the surroundings at your own pace and discover hidden gems. 

What’s in the Cruise Port Area at Costa Maya

The cruise port area at Costa Maya offers a range of amenities and attractions to enhance the experience of cruise passengers. From shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts to enjoying a variety of dining options, the port area provides a bustling atmosphere.

Visitors can relax at pool and beach clubs, these do come with an entrance fee however, you are provided with free Wi-Fi, a lounge chair, table with an umbrella and access to the bathroom.

Also, you can engage in water activities like snorkelling and paddleboarding. Plus, enjoy live entertainment showcasing the local culture. Additionally, the port area offers designated relaxation spaces and opportunities to learn about the region’s heritage through cultural exhibits and performances. With its diverse offerings, the cruise port area at Costa Maya ensures an engaging and memorable visit for all.

Restaurants at the Costa Maya Cruise Port

The Costa Maya Port boasts a range of dining options to cater to the tastes of its visitors. From beachfront grills to seafood-centric restaurants, there is something for everyone. Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill offers a fusion of American and Mexican cuisine, while Krazy Lobster specializes in delectable lobster dishes.

Jaime’s at the Blue Reef serves Caribbean-inspired flavors, and Tropicante Deli & Coffee Bar provides quick bites and coffee. Maya Chan Beach Resort offers an all-inclusive package with a delicious beachfront lunch. With these diverse options, visitors can indulge in a variety of flavors and culinary experiences during their time at the Costa Maya Cruise Port.

Bars in the cruise port

The Cruise Port area at Costa Maya offers a vibrant bar scene where visitors can unwind and enjoy a variety of refreshing beverages. From beach bars with stunning ocean views to lively establishments with live music, options suit every taste.

Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill and Krazy Lobster provide beachside bars with tropical cocktails and energetic atmospheres. Tropicante Deli & Coffee Bar offers a cozy setting for enjoying a drink, while Nohoch Kay features a beachfront bar with ice-cold beers and cocktails.

Activities at Costa Maya cruise port

The Costa Maya Cruise Port offers a diverse range of activities to suit the interests of every visitor. From exploring the Cruise Port area with its shopping, dining, and swimming pool options, to relaxing on the beautiful beaches and engaging in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking, there are plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure.

Cultural performances and demonstrations provide insights into the rich heritage of the region, while shore excursions offer the chance to explore ancient Mayan ruins, encounter wildlife, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. 

Mayan Wellness Retreat

A Mayan wellness retreat  offers a rejuvenating escape that combines ancient traditions with modern wellness practices. Immerse yourself in a serene environment, surrounded by nature and the wisdom of the Mayan culture.

Engage in yoga and meditation sessions that promote balance and inner peace. Experience the healing power of ancient Mayan rituals and therapies designed to restore mind, body, and spirit harmony.

Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization through guided tours to ancient ruins, visits to sacred sites, and interactions with local communities. Gain a deeper understanding of Mayan wisdom and its connection to well-being.

Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park

Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park  is a thrilling and immersive attraction in the Riviera Maya. Dive into a world of adventure with water slides , wave pools, and splash areas, providing endless fun for visitors of all ages.

In addition to water-based attractions, Mayá offers exhilarating experiences like zip lines, aerial bridges, and a challenging ropes course. Test your skills and bravery as you navigate through these thrilling adventure elements.

Get a glimpse into Mayan culture through educational exhibits and live performances that showcase the rich history and traditions of this fascinating civilization. Gain a deeper appreciation for the Mayan heritage while enjoying the park’s exciting offerings.

Visit the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Exploring the  Mayan ruins  allows you to enter the past and witness the grandeur of structures like pyramids, temples, and ball courts. These ruins’ intricate carvings and impressive scale leave visitors in awe of the Mayan civilisation’s achievements.

Beyond their architectural beauty, the Mayan ruins hold historical and cultural importance. They were centers of religious and ceremonial activities, providing insight into the Mayan beliefs and rituals that shaped their society.

Guided tours and interpretive signage provide valuable information about the history and significance of each site, enriching the visit and offering a deeper understanding of the Mayan civilization.

The Kohunlich Ruins

The Kohunlich Ruins are a hidden gem among the Mayan archaeological sites in Mexico. Located in the dense jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula, these ruins offer visitors a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.

One of the highlights of the Kohunlich Ruins is the magnificent Temple of the Masks. This structure is adorned with impressive stucco masks representing Mayan deities. Showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the ancient Mayan people. You’ll also come across other well-preserved structures, plazas, and ceremonial platforms as you explore the site.

The lush surroundings of the Kohunlich Ruins add to the enchanting atmosphere. The towering trees, vibrant flora, and occasional wildlife sightings create a sense of adventure and discovery. The site’s remote location ensures a more peaceful and immersive experience, away from larger crowds.

Join a Bacalar Lagoon tour

A Bacalar Lagoon tour offers an unforgettable experience of exploring the mesmerizing beauty of the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” Cruise along the calm waters on a boat or kayak, surrounded by breathtaking turquoise hues that change throughout the day.

Discover points of interest such as Cenote Azul, where you can snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters of a natural sinkhole, or explore the captivating mangrove forests and wildlife-rich Canal de los Piratas.

Enjoy various activities on the tour, such as paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing on the lagoon’s pristine beaches. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and breathtaking landscapes of this stunning destination.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve  is a natural paradise and UNESCO World Heritage site located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Spanning over 1.3 million acres, it is one of the largest protected areas in the country and home to an incredible diversity of ecosystems.

Explore the reserve’s diverse ecosystems, including pristine beaches, mangroves, wetlands, and ancient Mayan ruins. Witness a wide array of wildlife, from colorful birds to elusive mammals, as you venture through this expansive reserve.

Take a boat tour through the canals that wind through the mangroves, known as the “floating gardens,” and encounter fascinating creatures like crocodiles and manatees. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the reserve and soak in its natural beauty.

Discover the ancient Mayan ruins of Muyil within the reserve. Climb the tallest pyramid, explore the archaeological site, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization.

Visit the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef  is a vast and mesmerizing underwater world, stretching over 600 miles along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. Dive or snorkel in the Caribbean Sea to witness the vibrant colors and diverse marine life that call this reef home.

Explore the stunning coral formations, swim alongside graceful sea turtles, and encounter a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. The reef’s incredible biodiversity offers a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience for snorkelers and divers of all levels.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is not only a natural wonder but also an important ecosystem that provides coastal protection and sustains the livelihoods of local communities. By visiting the reef, you contribute to its preservation and the conservation efforts aimed at ensuring its long-term survival.

If diving or snorkeling isn’t your preferred activity, you can still appreciate the reef’s beauty by taking a boat tour or enjoying a glass-bottom boat ride. These options allow you to witness the reef’s magnificence from the surface while learning about its significance and delicate balance.

Responsible and sustainable tourism practices are crucial when visiting the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Help preserve this precious ecosystem by following guidelines, respecting the marine life, and avoiding activities that could harm the reef’s fragile coral formations.

In Costa Maya, you can experience the thrill of zip lining through the lush jungle canopy and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding tropical scenery. Several adventure parks and eco-parks in the area offer zip line tours that cater to visitors seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience.

The zip line courses in Costa Maya typically feature multiple lines of varying lengths and heights, allowing you to glide through the air and enjoy the rush of speed. As you soar above the treetops, you’ll have the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the jungle, rivers, and maybe even glimpses of local wildlife.

So, suppose you’re looking for an exciting adventure that combines adrenaline, stunning views, and a connection with nature. In that case, it’s a thrilling activity that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in this tropical paradise.

The Mahahual Village

The Mahahual village is a charming coastal gem on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Its white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters offer a picturesque setting for a relaxing beach getaway.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Malecon, the village’s beachfront promenade, and explore the colourful shops, restaurants, and bars that line the way. Sample delicious seafood dishes, browse local handicrafts, or soak in the laid-back atmosphere.

This is a great place for water activities such as snorkelling. Or simply diving to discover the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs surrounding Mahahual. Fishing enthusiasts can embark on fishing trips to experience the thrill of catching their own dinner.

Visit The Costa Maya Archaeological Site

For history and culture, visit the Costa Maya archaeological site. This showcases the ancient Mayan ruins. This allows you to gain insight into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage while exploring the remnants of the Mayan civilisation.

If relaxation is your goal, find a spot on the beach, lay back, and unwind. Listen to the gentle sound of the waves, bask in the sun, and let the worries of everyday life drift away.

In Conclusion

Costa Maya Cruise Port, like Cozumel and Fort Lauderdale, offers numerous exciting and active opportunities and activities for cruisers. Whether it’s exploring the historical and cultural elements of the Island or taking in the Yukatan vibes and sipping cocktails on the beach, there is something for everyone in Costa Maya.

Donna and Sarah ( Cruising For All ) Sarah Christie and Donna Vallance are experienced travel writers and cruise enthusiasts specializing in cruising. They are passionate about exploring new destinations and have dedicated themselves to sharing their knowledge and insights with fellow travellers. They provide valuable information, tips, and recommendations for all cruisers. They strive to make cruising accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their interests, budgets, or accessibility needs. Their articles and reviews are well-researched, comprehensive, and written to help readers make informed decisions and have unforgettable cruise adventures.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

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

Costa Maya Cruise Port: Be Your Own Tour Guide

Can you be your own tour guide at the Costa Maya cruise port? Yes, you can!

Whether you plan on taking a guided tour or exploring independently with a rented golf cart, Costa Maya promises an exciting day. The stunning cerulean waters beckon you to come out and play the moment you get a glimpse of it from your cruise balcony. As you walk down the long dock towards the port, peek at the marine life below—colorful fish and occasional stingrays—will set the tone for what awaits at the beach.

On our first visit to Costa Maya, we chose a guided tour with Native Choice , exploring the Chacchoben Ruins, followed by a relaxing afternoon at the “Seven Colors of the Seas” Lagoon, or Lago Bacalar. We enjoyed a delightful lunch with unlimited piña coladas—a perfect day.

Returning exactly a year later, we opted for spontaneity. Without set plans on the Norwegian Pearl , we were open to adventure or another laid-back beach day. Each visit to Costa Maya has been memorable, and we can’t wait for our next time in port.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

In this article, we’ll share our personal experiences and tips to help you navigate and enjoy Costa Maya.

Table of Contents

The Costa Maya Cruise Terminal: A Tourist Haven

Where is the Costa Maya cruise port? It’s located on the eastern coast of Mexico, near Mahahual in the state of Quintana Roo.

The Costa Maya cruise port terminal is designed so you never need to leave its confines unless you choose to. It’s like a mini-city, with many shops, restaurants, bars, rocky beach front, and even a free pool.

The area is bustling with local entertainment and numerous photo ops—it almost gives off a Disneyland vibe, making it one of the nicest cruise terminals we’ve encountered.

It’s ideal for tourists who prefer to stay close to their ship. The terminal itself is quite the labyrinth. It’s amusing yet challenging to navigate; the journey through this maze becomes an adventure. Although finding the exit can be tricky, especially with shop owners eagerly drawing your attention to step into their stores, it’s all part of the experience. This might be my least favorite aspect of this port, but as I always say, the journey is part of the adventure —and adventure always awaits just before the exit.

Be Your Own Tour Guide at Costa Maya Cruise Port

Rent a golf cart.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kathy | Great Eats & Vacations (@tastyitinerary)

Just when we thought we’d navigated the Costa Maya cruise terminal maze, freedom called in the form of a golf cart. At first, we hesitated and started to walk away, but then we turned back, a sudden urge for adventure hitting us—why stick to taxis when you could have the thrill of driving yourself?

In no time, we were haggling like pros, securing a five-hour rental for a steal. Remember, it’s okay to bargain a bit—but always keep it fair.

I was relieved my hubby loves to drive because steering a doorless, windowless golf cart isn’t exactly my style. Make sure you’re comfortable behind the wheel before you take off.

The rental place equipped us with a map and suggested routes specifically good for golf carts, even highlighting spots where parking was free.

Navigating the Open Road in Costa Maya

With the map in hand, we were told to stick to two main streets that loop around the area. But true to our adventurous spirit, we veered off into backstreets and unpaved paths. While it’s fun to explore, I’d advise staying on paved roads unless you’re up for a bumpy ride!

Driving along, the ocean views were spectacular, with beachside bars and secluded beaches dotting the landscape. The locals were incredibly welcoming, ensuring we enjoyed ourselves—a reminder not to skimp on tips.

We never felt unsafe. This is important because many cruisers stay at the terminal and don’t explore because of predetermined assumptions.

Don’t be afraid to be your own tour guide. – Kathy, Tasty Itinerary

Don’t hesitate to explore beyond the terminal. Mahahual offers beautiful and fun sights like the bustling Malecon—perfect for a quick but memorable excursion. Being your own tour guide means stopping whenever and wherever you want, diving into the local scene at your own pace.

Our day driving around Costa Maya was not just an adventure—it was one of spontaneity, making every moment unforgettable.

The Maze at the Port Terminal: Navigating the terminal can feel like solving a puzzle. A reader (thanks, Doug!) shared a pro tip: cut through the Amorino Gelato shop—it has two entrances and might be your shortcut out.

Other Transportation at Costa Maya Cruise Port

• Shuttles are available before exiting the cruise terminal. They will take you to El Malecon (the boardwalk) for $3.00 US per person.
• Taxis are outside of the cruise terminal. You must exit and pass the golf carts.
• Rent an E-bike near the cruise port to explore Mahahual on your own.

Warning: The roads are full of potholes. If you leave the port terminal to explore, expect a bumpy ride.

Other Things to Do in Costa Maya, Mexico

Visit mahahual malecon (downtown).

El Malecon in Mahahual is the vibrant downtown area of Mahahual beach, bustling with beachgoers daily and lively with nightlife as the sun sets. Most cruisers opt for the quick shuttle from the terminal, spending their entire day soaking up the scene. We took our golf cart at the end of our time and parked it at a local bar so we could explore independently.

At El Malecon, you’ll discover a beach-lovers paradise:

• Beach Bars & Restaurants: Find a spot along the beach at any bar or restaurant where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and tasty eats with your toes in the sand.
• Relaxation Services: Treat yourself to massages, hair braiding, or even a pedicure on the beach.
• Shopping: Browse through various stalls and shops offering everything from local souvenirs to the essentials for beach day fun.
• Iconic Sights: Don’t miss snapping a photo at the famous Mahahual sign or by the picturesque lighthouse.

El Malecon is perfect if you’re looking for a straightforward, no-frills beach day. Just hop on the shuttle, grab a margarita and some ceviche at a beachfront bar, and settle under a palm tree for sunny relaxation and ocean dips. The water here? Gorgeous—it’s a slice of heaven!

Tip: The further you go, the nicer the beach areas get.

Plan a Day at a Costa Maya Beach Club

Heading to a beach club is a fantastic option for those looking to make the most of their day at the beach. What’s not to love? For an entrance fee, you often get a package deal that includes drinks, food, and activities like kayaking and snorkeling.

While I haven’t personally visited these clubs, they are highly recommended and on my list for future visits. Unfortunately, everything was already booked since this trip was a spur-of-the-moment decision.

If you’re considering a beach club, making early reservations to secure your spot is wise. Be sure to inquire about what the entrance fee includes to ensure it meets your expectations. Some popular beach clubs in the area include:

• Maya Chan Beach (favorite amongst cruisers)
• Hayhu Beach Club
• Jamie’s Blue Reef
• Pitaya Beach Club

Read More: Guide to Booking Your Own Shore Excursions

Spend the Day at Maya, Mayan Lost Magic Kingdom

If you’re cruising with kids, Maya, The Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park is a blast and a short ride from the cruise terminal. It’s an awesome spot to cool off and has something for everyone: zip lines, pools, and waterslides galore.

Tickets? You can purchase them through your cruise line, which usually includes a ride to the terminal, or you can buy them online and hop a taxi at the terminal.

Visit Chacchoben Mayan City and Bacalar Lagoon

Combine culture with a day of swimming or kayaking in one of the most beautiful lagoons. As mentioned earlier, we visited our first Mayan temple during our first cruise to Costa Maya and then spent the rest of the afternoon at Bacalar Lagoon . It was one of the best days of our itinerary and we highly recommend it.

Book Discovery Scuba

Always wanted to learn to scuba diva but haven’t gotten to it? Discovery scuba is an amazing way for first-timers or beginners to get an introduction to scuba diving.

Take a Cooking Class

Spend the afternoon learning how to make a few of your favorite Mexican dishes , like guacamole and enchiladas! Karlita’s Kitchen fits right into this Tasty Itinerary. If there is time after lunch, hit the beach – you must make the most of your time at port!

Book an ATV Adventure

For those looking for adventure and thrill, ride ATVs through Costa Maya while your guide introduces you to their local culture. Then, have lunch at the beach before riding back.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Mahahual Beach is the closest sandy beach to the Costa Maya cruise port, about a 40-minute walk away. We recommend taking a shuttle for $3 or a taxi for about $10.

Can you swim at the Costa Maya cruise port?

There is a pool at the Costa Maya terminal, but you’ll have to purchase food and drinks to use it. If you do not plan to explore outside of it, you’re probably better off exploring the terminal and returning to the ship to swim.

Is Costa Maya Cruise Port safe?

Yes. The cruise port terminal is secured for cruise passengers and employees who work at the terminal only. It is still safe once you leave the port area. We explored on our own and never felt unsafe or saw anything considered unsafe. Throughout our self-guided adventures outside the port area, the atmosphere remained welcoming, and we encountered nothing but friendly faces and helpful locals. The community is invested in ensuring that visitors have a pleasant experience.

Costa Maya Observations: The Good, The Bad, and The Tasty

During our visit to Costa Maya, we made some noteworthy observations:

👎 Overzealous Tipping Requests: While we’re not shy about tipping generously, the constant pressure for tips here was a bit much. It seemed like tips were expected for every little interaction, and when we didn’t comply, the attitude we received was off-putting.

👎 Litter Along the Coastline: It’s heartbreaking to drive along such beautiful coastal views only to see them marred by litter. If you visit, please keep it clean and respect its natural beauty.

❤️ The Water: Stunning! It’s as you’d hope—calm, clear, and invitingly warm.

❤️ Safe and Easy Navigation: Getting around here is straightforward and safe.

❤️ The Food is a Highlight: We love our Mexican food in Los Angeles, but it tastes better in Mexico.

Tasty Itinerary Tip: Enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants or choose a tour that includes lunch. The food here is not to be missed.

❤️ Warm and Welcoming Locals: Despite the pushiness for tips, everyone was incredibly friendly and clearly hard at work to support their families.

These insights and experiences made our trip memorable, for better or worse, and we hope they help you make the most of your time in Costa Maya.

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Don’t Stay on the Ship in Harvest Caye, Belize
• Spend a Fun Day at Paradise Beach in Cozumel, Mexico
• Things to Do in the Port of Mazatlan
• Cabo San Lucas Mexico Cruise Port Guide

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

13 Comments

This sounds great & the blue of the water looks amazing! What a fun idea to rent a golf buggy ? Totally agree that pushy shop/restaurant people are off putting. I always try to remind myself all cultures are different…

Yes, I was a little obsessed with the water there. It was so beautiful.

The easy exit to cut through the maze of the port is to go through the ice cream shop as it has two entrances.

We thank you for this HOT TIP!

@Doug Thompson, can you more specific directions to exit the port? Is the ice cream shop fourth shop or what? We will be here in April and I want to exit the port as soon as possible. Thanks.

It is Amorino Gelato shop.

@Gloria, I too will be there in April, via Allure of the seas! So glad I found this post with the tip to exit the port!

Our favorite place in Costa Maya is Maya Chan! It’s a small, laid back day resort run by an American family. You get your own beachside palapa, food is fantastic, view is beautiful, price is reasonable! And no vendors!

YES! Maya Chan is a popular beach resort visited by cruisers. High on the list of places to book in advance.

You said the water is warm, what about in Feb? I would assume it’s always warm? Want to snorkel, where would be the best place for that? Thanks, 33 day to go! Carnival Breeze from Galveston

The water is definitely warm year-round, although it may be warmer during the summer months. In Feb, I read the water can be as low as 76 degrees, which is fabulous to me. A snorkeling tour from a boat will probably take you to the best snorkeling spots. Although we’ve seen the most beautiful fish and even spotts stingrays from the shores of Mahahual. The water is so clear, too.

hey there. Could you share more about the cost of golf carts? We are looking to plan a trip to the water park and then exploring the city. The water park is a 5 hour excursion and that would leave about 3 hours to explore the city. COuld we do a 2 hour gold cart ride?

Hi Santana- Hope you received our email regarding the golf cart ride. You should have time to explore as the area is not that big.

• 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

What to Do on a Port Day in San Francisco

Cruise Line Beverage Packages – Are They Worth the Money?

Top 10 Totally Underrated Cruise Ports to Visit Soon

8 Scenic New England Cruise Ports to Visit This Summer

How to Navigate Between Venice Italy Cruise Ports, Train Station and More

Sitka Alaska Cruise Port Profile and City Guide with Map

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

• 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

World cruise delayed again by failed inspection, passengers left waiting, juneau, alaska strikes deal with cruise lines on passenger limits, norwegian joy 2024 review + cruise news [podcast], 140 cruise passengers evacuated during european river flood, share this post, related posts.

Couple’s Dream Wedding Shattered by Cruise Line Shutdown

Cruise Passengers Get Sick on Texas-Bound Flight After Sailing

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

• Celebration
• Regal Princess
• Fort Lauderdale
• New Orleans
• New York City
• Port Canaveral
• Dominican Republic
• Grand Cayman
• Mexican Riviera
• Montego Bay
• St. Maarten
• Carnival Cruise Director Schedule
• Carnival Fleet Tracker
• Dive-In Movie Schedule
• Carnival Food & Drink Menus
• Carnival Celebration Cabin Tours
• Carnival Jubilee Cabin Tours
• Carnival Jubilee Menus
• Mardi Gras Menus
• Carnival Celebration Menus
• Carnival Fun Times
• Piano Bar Schedule
• Playlist Productions
• Punchliner Comedy Schedule
• Norwegian Headliners Comedy Schedule
• Punchliner Comedians
• Barcelo Maya
• Planet Hollywood

• February 2024
• January 2024
• December 2023
• November 2023
• October 2023
• September 2023
• August 2023
• February 2023
• January 2023
• December 2022
• November 2022
• October 2022
• September 2022
• August 2022
• February 2022
• January 2022
• December 2021
• November 2021
• October 2021
• September 2021
• August 2021
• February 2021
• January 2021
• December 2020
• November 2020
• October 2020
• September 2020
• August 2020
• February 2020
• January 2020
• December 2019
• November 2019
• October 2019
• September 2019
• August 2019
• All-Inclusive
• Cruise Blog
• Memorial Day

Jubilee: Cozumel

Jubilee: costa maya, uss alabama, uss alabama – lower decks, costa maya cruise port.

There is a lot to see and do inside the Costa Maya Cruise port. They have shopping, bars, restaurants, pools, an aviary, dolphin encounters, a flow rider, and shows.

I’m going to use this map as a reference. We’re going to start down in the lower left section of the map down by the pier.

Right when you come off of the pier there’s an area for pre-booked tours. This is going to be for excursions booked through the cruise line. For outside tours you have to walk all the way through the port and exit to get to their meeting point. On the left is an area where you can book a last minute tour. This would not be through the cruise line.

This is the cruise line pre-booked tour area.

They have a swing bar.

Live entertainment

And these Mayans you can take pictures with…for a fee. I asked if they were doing a show. They told me yes but wouldn’t give me a time. 

All of that and we haven’t entered the port yet.

They do have a couple of spots for liquor tasting.

I am a fan of these bottles.

Outside of the duty free shop you have a ton of stores.

If you want to walk up those steps, there’s a good photo op.

And a view. This would actually be a good spot to watch the flyers show. Their pole is right there.

The buildings all have Mayan symbols up top.

Here is our map again. This time we’re actually in the location where I took the map picture so the “you are here” is accurate this time only.

We are right by the pole where you can watch the Papantla Flyers. I didn’t see a schedule but I saw them four times during my time in the port. I think they go every hour.

We have now reached the main pool area.

There is a swim up bar.

You can order food from the restaurant here.

On the other side of the pool is the Aviary. For full coverage of the Aviary please visit Costa Maya: Avarius

One thing you get with the Aviary is great views of the port area that I will be using. Here we have the main pool. There’s a swim up bar and restaurant on the left and a two story restaurant on the right.

This is the view from the second floor of the two story restaurant.

This is the main beach chair area next to the pool.

The mojito bar is right next to the the beach chair area.

This is a look at the main pool from the back side. With the restaurants on either side.

Behind the main pool is the dolphin encounter area.

The cost is $120 for an “encounter” or $140 for a swim.

Here dolphins are pushing people on boards.

This is the equipment and shower area for the dolphin encounter.

Next to the dolphin encounter area is a smaller pool and swim up bar.

You just have to order food/drinks to use the loungers by that pool.

Behind that pool area is a bar, showers, lockers, and massage areas.

On the other side of the dolphin encounter is the El Faro bar and grill.

I am going to back up to in front of the Aviary by the flamingos. If you are trying to leave the port to meet an outside excursion or to catch a taxi, you can save some time and walking by cutting through this Gelato place and taking a right.

Back the map. We have now covered the entire lower section. Now we’re going to work our way to the hidden gem. The area in the upper left.

On the way over you’ll run into a couple of bars and quick serve food locations.

This is the pool area in the upper left corner of the map. This is at a peak time and it’s not very crowded.

This area also has a smaller swim up bar.

It has loungers. There’s a lot of availability now even in the afternoon with five ships in port.

It has a small bar and grill.

There’s another Mojito bar on this side.

And there’s a flow rider over here.

From this area there is also an exit to the taxi area. Up ahead on the right would be where you would’ve come out had you taken my shortcut through the gelato place.

I’m going to walk back the gelato way since we skipped it on our way here. There are more stores, food places, and bars along the way.

That concludes my tour of the Costa Maya Cruise port. I feel like there is a lot to do here without leaving the port.

Costa Maya: Aviarius

May 20, 2024

May 27, 2024

June 3, 2024

May 31, 2024

Jubilee: Roatan

May 17, 2024

Carnival Jubilee: Day 3

May 13, 2024

Jubilee: Day 2

May 10, 2024

Dr. Inks on Carnival Jubilee

May 6, 2024

Thanks Greg. We are looking at a cruise in 2026 that has this as a stop. Looks like an easy to navigate port.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda Cruise Ports

Costa Maya (Quintana Roo Mexico, Riviera Maya)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-06-06 23:10

Port Costa Maya cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Costa Maya, Quintana Roo Mexico, Riviera Maya. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Puerto Costa Maya is Caribbean Mexico's second-largest cruise port - after Cozumel . This is also one of the country's most popular tourist regions. Part of Mexico's Quintana Roo state, the Mahahual municipality is near the state's capital city Chetumal (located on the border with Belize) and at ~4 hours drive distance from Cancun (Yucatan Peninsula).

Port Costa Maya (locode MXCOM) is also the closest tourist destination to the lesser-known Mayan ruins in Mexico's Yucatan state (including Kohunlich and Chacchoben). In 2017 was discovered Ichkabal (the largest Mayan archaeological site) and since 2019 it is added to Costa Maya's Shore Excursion program for cruise companies-organized land tours.

The region is generally undeveloped but has been rapidly growing after the construction of a large pier with capacity to accommodate the world's biggest passenger liners. Other port upgrades included new shops and attractions. The new pier and port expansion project was completed for season 2017-2018, and fully operational for season 2018-2019. The result was increased passenger traffic growth from 900,000 to over 1 million.

The Port's daily cruise ship passenger capacity is 15000 to 18000.

In 2017 was opened the largest Mayan archaeological site Xcabal, located at ~1-hour bus ride from the cruise port. Until 2019, the site was open exclusively to cruise line-organized excursions.

Costa Maya cruise port features a modern shopping mall, central plaza and saltwater pools. There are also several shops selling discount-priced brand jewelry, beachwear, Mexican silver and handicrafts, hand-made souvenirs. It is generally open to cruise ship passengers only. Costa Maya counts with many experiences offered via Port Pass - an access pass to all in-port activities. Port Pass includes Kakaw (where visitors are guided through time to figure out how to prevent cacao beans from extinction and preserve chocolate); Aviary (hanging on top of the port, which is also home to dozens of Mexico's most colorful bird species) and Tequila museum (where tourists are hosted by two Mexican characters guiding them into in the tequila-making process, followed by all kinds of tequila tasting). One of the Port's newest additions is the Rockpool where tourists can relax, swim, drink and enjoy the view of the docked ships.

In 2017, the port handled around 1 million cruise ship passengers. In season 2018, their number reached 1,3 million. The number of expected in 2019 passengers is ~1,5 million. To increase its capacity, the port extended berths 3 and 4, allowing them to handle RCI's Oasis-Class ships (225,000 GT tons, LOA length 362 m / 1188 ft, max capacity 6780 passengers plus 2400 crew). This port expansion project resulted in increased berthing capacity - now can dock 4 (3x large + 1x smaller) vessels simultaneously. Berth 4's inauguration was on March 12, 2019.

Costa Maya's largest liners in 2018 were Symphony OTS  ( RCI-Royal Caribbean ) on November 20th (7-day from Miami / Nov 17-24) and MSC Seaside ( MSC ) on January 11th (7-day from Miami / Jan 6-13). The Port's current "day passenger" record is 14,000, while its max daily capacity is 15,000.

In 2018-2019, to the list of Costa Maya shore excursions were added tours to Bacalar Fort, Seven Color Lagoon, Aqua Rocket (speedboat tour), Dune Buggy, ATV Off-Road Adventure. At Maya Adventure Park were added a monster truck circuit and "animal encounter" experience. In 2019 was inaugurated the "Journeys to the Mayan Legends" attraction - river ride within the Lost Mayan Kingdom jungle. Additionally, the Maya Adventure Park offers 12 waterslides (all descending from its centrally-located pyramid) and several zip-lines and obstacle-bridge circuits. As shore excursion options are also listed various beachside clubs (featuring Beach Escape, La Bamba, Lagoon Club Uchbenkah) and 3 different snorkeling tours.

In December 2020, Quintana Roo media reported that a new (USD 10 pp) tourist tax on foreigners goes into effect on April 1, 2021. Details on how it will be collected or will it be applied also to cruise ship tourists were not revealed.

From Costa Maya can be accessed two small villages (Xcalak and Mahahual) and the road extends south to the southern border of Sian Kaan (north) approx 100 km (62 mi).

Mahahual is just 3 km/2 mi away and the berthed in Costa Maya cruise liners are easily seen from there. Mahahual was a small fishing village (with population around 800) before the docking jetty was constructed at Puerto Costa Maya (just up the Mahahual Beach) with capacity to serve large-sized passenger liners. Every day, cruise ships berth in Costa Maya and most of their tourists are bussed to Mahahual to enjoy cheap drinks, hand-made gift shopping, quad biking, watersports activities (swimming, jet ski rides, scuba diving and snorkeling). By the New Mahahual (cruise port development) project are planned the construction of new (second cruise dock) approx 12 km/7,5 mi to the south (along the coastal road). This could result in up to 4 vessels docking simultaneously each day.

Since the construction of Puerto Costa Maya, Mahahual has been rapidly growing in population (around 3000) and in capacity to receive over 15,000 tourists in a day. The town is just at ~5-min drive distance from the cruise port. Shuttle bus service and taxis go to the Mahahual boardwalk, with fares (cruise port to Mahahual Town) at ~USD 5 per person.

In August 2007, Hurricane Dean heavily damaged Mahahual's cruise dock and destroyed much of the village. Cruise liners returned to Costa Maya in late-October 2008.

Since 2010, Mahahual has quickly developed as a cruise tourism destination featuring palapas (open-sided dwellings with thatched roofs made of palm leaves), soft sand beaches (best-known/largest is Mahahual Beach), a near-shore coral reef (Banco Chinchorro), numerous seaside restaurants, bars, hotels, gift shops.

The Malecon esplanade is a pedestrian seaside promenade lined with numerous restaurants and shops. Mahahual has ATM machines, HSBC bank office, Pemex gas station. Approx 4 km / 2,5 mi from Mahahual (along the coastal road to the south) are located small beachfront hotels, rental houses and restaurants. Most of the electricity is renewable (generated by solar panels and windmills). Roof-captured rainwater is collected and used for bathing and WCs.

During the post-COVID season 2022, Port Costa Maya recorded a total of 363 cruise ship calls, following only Cozumel (864 calls).

In 2023, Quintana Roo State received 1618 cruise ship calls (of which 462 were in Mahahual/Costa Maya) bringing in 2+ million cruise tourists. The state also recorded an 18% increase in cruise passenger numbers (6+ million compared to the 5 million received in 2019).

Costa Maya cruise terminal

Puerto Costa Maya is the first Western Caribbean port that was purposefully built for cruise ships exclusively. The passenger terminal complex was designed to resemble a Mayan city - thus truly exhibiting the authentic Mexican culture and history. Port's main entrance resembles a Mayan city facade and as tourists explore its infrastructure they kinda travel through time into a traditional Mexican folkloric town.

The cruise port's operator is the Cancun -based company ITM Group MX (also managing the new Taino Bay Cruise Terminal in Puerto Plata, Dominicana ).

Costa Maya port's current capacity is 4 berths (4 ships may dock simultaneously), with pierside water depth allowing docking of world's largest passenger liners (RCI's Oasis-Class). If more than 4 vessels visit at once, the other will be anchored and their passengers transported/ferried to the pier via tender boats.

Majahual is located approx 5-min away. Limited taxis are parked at the village's exit. Taxi fare from Port Majahual is around US$5 PP. Banks and post offices are not available in port. There are pay phones in the shopping complex.

The following map of Costa Maya cruise port shows all facilities in the terminal area. The built by the pier cruise tourist village has several complimentary swimming pools (including 1 huge, filled with saltwater and featuring a swim-up bar), authentic Mexican restaurants and bars, restaurant grill, shops (including a convenience store and Market Place selling Mexican crafts), Jade Maya Museum, taxi ranks, transportation to Mahahual Town, bike rentals, even a Mayan Pyramid replica and its own beach (with hammocks, showers, volleyball pool). Additionally, Costa Maya offers a Mayan-inspired spa experience, a hanging Aviary, a tequila museum, a chocolate museum, "El Callejon del Sapo" (translates to Toad’s Alley for an exquisite culinary experience and Mexican folklore). The following map of Costa Maya cruise port shows all facilities in the terminal area.

Next map shows Costa Maya port's facilities, all tourist attractions and shopping options.

Most of the shops are open when ships are in port.

On the above map are shown the following shops:

• (1) Diamonds International (Caribbean's largest selection of diamonds and diamond jewelry)
• (2) Tanzanite International (thousands of loose and set pieces in all sizes, shapes and colors)
• (3) Diamonds International (discount jewelry)
• (4) Carpet Emporium (over 10,000 certified handmade carpets, including from Turkey, Persia, India, China; free DHL shipping worldwide, tax and duty-free)
• (5) Diamonds International (luxury watches and designer jewelry, including the brands Caribbean Topaz, Chameleon, Chopard, Wyle, TAG Heuer, John Hardy, Korite, Baume & Mercier, Cartier, Concord, Corum, Cyma, Dior, Ebel, ESQ Swiss, IWC, Longines, Maurice Lacroix, Movado, Philip Stein, Piaget, Edward Mirell, Judith Ripka, Yvel)
• (6) Havana Club (premium cigars, including Monte Cristo, Cohiba, Romeo & Julieta, Partagas, the shop has a walk-in humidor)
• (7a, 7b) Tequileria International (over 200 Tequila brands, including Agave, Mescal, Anejo, Blanco, Kahlua)
• (8) Del Sol (world's largest color -changing retailer, custom-Made T-Shirts themed on the Mayan Ruins in Chichenitza)
• (9) Silver Factory (unique silver and gold jewelry designs at low prices, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, also sells
• (10) Taxco (silver factory, unique silver jewelry designs, semiprecious stones (amethyst, onyx, quartz, topaz, zircon, Swarovski crystals) at factory prices
• (A) Bbandito's (Lobster Shack) is a beach restaurant with live entertainment (menu includes lobster burritos and fresh fish specialties)
• (B) Mamasita's (Restaurant & Bar) - offers fresh fish tacos, poolside Bar Service and Happy Hour prices between 3-4 pm).

~10-min by taxi from Port Costa May (in Mahahual) is the Jaime’s at the Blue Reef Hotel offering to cruise ship tourists all-inclusive day passes (limited to just 28x daily). The hotel's admission fee includes Wi-Fi, unlimited food and beverages (including alcoholic), rooftop pool (adults-only), protected beach area (with padded sun loungers and shaded seating/palapas), water toys (kayaks, floats, paddle boards).

MSC Cruises unveils grand plans for World America ship's naming ceremony in Miami

MSC Cruises, renowned as the world's third-largest cruise line, has revealed its plans for the prestigious naming ceremony of its latest flagship...

Royal Caribbean's ships Rhapsody and Grandeur homeported in Tampa for 2025-2026 winter

Tampa's maritime landscape is set to flourish with the arrival of two of RCI-Royal Caribbean's renowned vessels, Rhapsody of the Seas and Grandeur of...

RCI-Royal Caribbean unveils 2025-2026 East Coast USA cruise homeports/ships

RCI-Royal Caribbean International has revealed its lineup of cruises departing from East Coast USA ports for the summer and winter seasons of 2025...

World's largest cruise ship Icon OTS visits Costa Maya Mexico

RCI-Royal Caribbean's newest vessel Icon of the Seas, currently holding the title of the world's largest passenger ship, docked at Mahahual on...

MSC Cruises adds Costa Maya and Cozumel to Seascape ship's ex-Galveston itinerary

MSC Cruises has incorporated Mexico's Costa Maya/Mahahual and Cozumel into a new 7-night itinerary. The departure port for the voyage visiting these...

MSC Seascape ship to be homeported in Galveston Texas starting Nov 2025

MSC Cruises unveiled a new chapter in its expanding presence in the United States, marking a significant maritime milestone. The port city of...

CCL's newest ship Carnival Jubilee unveils Texas-sized entertainment for inaugural cruise from...

Embarking on her inaugural sail from Galveston, Carnival Jubilee is set to dazzle guests with a Texas-sized celebration, incorporating Lone Star...

New $5 tax proposed for all cruise tourists visiting Mexico’s Quintana Roo

A proposed measure within the 2024 Fiscal Package meeting for the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, suggests the implementation of a new US$5 tax for...

RCI-Royal Caribbean unveils 2025-2026 Caribbean deployment (7 liners)

RCI-Royal Caribbean International has unveiled its 2025-2026 Caribbean vacation lineup, providing sun-seekers with an array of options for tropical...

Carnival Jubilee completes sea trials ahead of Galveston debut

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line's upcoming vessel, Carnival Jubilee, has successfully completed her inaugural round of sea trials, marking a significant...

•   show more news

Costa Maya - user reviews and comments

• CRUISE TIPS
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Virgin Voyages
• Windstar Cruises
• Travel Deals
• CRUISE SHIP TRACKER
• Port Webcams

Costa Maya , located along Mexico’s Caribbean coast in Quintana Roo, is a popular cruise port and beach destination. This tropical paradise offers many activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to ancient Mayan ruins and vibrant coral reefs, Costa Maya has something for everyone.

Visiting Puerto Costa Maya Mexico

Whether you’re looking for relaxation on the beach, adventurous water activities, exploring Mayan history, or indulging in delicious Mexican cuisine , Costa Maya is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation. Cruise passengers will find a range of shore excursions , including visits to the nearby Mayan ruins of Chacchoben, dolphin encounters, zip-lining adventures, and relaxing at beach clubs with swim-up bars. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Mexican culture, explore the coast’s natural beauty, and create unforgettable memories in Costa Maya.

Reasons to Visit Costa Maya Cruise Port

Costa Maya, located on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is a vibrant destination that offers many attractions and experiences for visitors. From ancient ruins to cultural shows and exciting activities, Costa Maya has something for everyone.

One of the main reasons to visit Costa Maya is the opportunity to explore the Chacchoben Mayan ruins . These ruins offer a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization and are a must-see for history enthusiasts. Additionally, cultural shows like Aldea Mahahua provide an immersive experience of Mexican culture, with traditional dances, music, and crafts.

For those seeking adventure, Costa Maya boasts a range of activities. Water parks with thrilling water slides , zip lining through lush forests, and swimming in refreshing pools are some exciting options. The convenience of these activities being on-site at the port makes it easy for cruise ship passengers to make the most of their visit.

Costa Maya’s highlights also include its natural beauty and family-friendly options. The white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters offer the perfect backdrop for relaxation and water activities. Families can enjoy swimming pools, dolphin encounters, and spot tropical birds and spider monkeys. The rich Mexican culture and cuisine make for a unique and memorable experience.

In conclusion, Costa Maya’s combination of ancient ruins, cultural shows, water parks, and family-friendly options make it a compelling destination for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, relaxation, or experiencing Mexican culture, Costa Maya has something to offer everyone.

Top Things To Do In Costa Maya

Located on the stunning Caribbean coast, Costa Maya offers many exciting activities for travelers of all interests. Here are the top things to do in this vibrant destination.

1. Explore the Mayan Ruins: Immerse yourself in history by visiting the legendary Mayan ruins near Costa Maya. The ancient city of Chacchoben is a must-see, renowned for its towering pyramids and fascinating archaeological sites.

2. Visit Mahahual Fishing Village: Just a stone’s throw away from Costa Maya’s cruise terminal, Mahahual is a charming fishing village that offers a taste of local culture and authentic Mexican cuisine. Stroll along the Malecon, indulge in fresh seafood, and unwind on the beautiful beaches.

3. Discover Bacalar Lagoon : Embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the “Lake of Seven Colors.” This enchanting natural wonder is famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant shades of blue. Take a boat tour , kayaking, or relax and soak up the serene atmosphere.

4. Snorkel in the Coral Reefs: Dive into the underwater world of Costa Maya’s vibrant coral reefs. With an abundance of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful corals, snorkeling enthusiasts will be in paradise.

5. Enjoy Water Activities: For thrill-seekers, Costa Maya offers various water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Feel the ocean breeze as you sail along the coast, or try your hand at kiteboarding.

From immersing yourself in ancient history to indulging in water sports and exploring natural wonders, Costa Maya has something for everyone. Take advantage of the opportunity to experience this captivating destination’s beauty and adventure.

Beach Clubs & Swimming Spots in Costa Maya

The options for beach clubs and swimming spots in Costa Maya are endless. Costa Maya has it all if you’re looking to relax on white sand beaches, take a dip in crystal-clear waters, or enjoy a swim-up bar. From famous beach clubs with luxurious amenities to secluded swimming spots where you can escape the crowds, you’ll find the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the Caribbean coast. So grab your beach chair, wear your swimsuit, and prepare for a day of fun and relaxation in paradise.

Mahahual Beach

Mahahual Beach, located in the Costa Maya region of Mexico, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this stunning beach is ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the bustling tourist crowds.

When visiting Mahahual Beach, it’s important to note that the northern area tends to be the busiest. While it may be crowded, it also boasts the most amenities, including beach clubs with swim-up bars and water activities like water slides and zip lines. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, head to the southern tip of the beach, where the water is shallow and perfect for swimming.

One of the highlights of Mahahual Beach is the Malecón Mahahual, a lively boardwalk lined with vibrant bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich Mexican culture and feast on delicious local dishes like fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine.

For adventure enthusiasts, Mahahual Beach offers an array of shore excursions and day trips. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chacchoben, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean coast to discover vibrant coral reefs, or embark on a kayak tour through the picturesque Bacalar Lagoon.

Whether you’re looking to unwind on the white sand beaches, indulge in delicious Mexican food , or explore the area’s rich history and natural wonders, Mahahual Beach has something for everyone. You can discover this hidden gem on your next cruise ship stop in Costa Maya.

Located just a 5-minute taxi ride away from the Costa Maya cruise port , Yaya Beach is a hidden gem that offers a perfect oasis for cruise passengers looking to unwind and enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches of Costa Maya.

At Yaya Beach, you can relax and soak up the sun on their comfortable lounge chairs, with umbrellas to provide shade. As you bask in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, you can enjoy refreshing drinks from their beach bars. You can sip on your favorite cocktails with unlimited boozeand cool down with ice-cold beverages .

To ensure a tranquil experience, Yaya Beach requires reservations due to limited availability. This allows you to secure your spot on their pristine beach and enjoy the exclusivity of this private paradise.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, Yaya Beach also offers a range of activities to keep you entertained. You can try stand-up paddleboarding, explore the underwater world with SCUBA diving , or indulge in a soothing massage by the shore.

With its idyllic location and amenities, Yaya Beach is the perfect spot to escape the crowds and create lasting memories during your visit to Costa Maya.

Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen, located near Costa Maya, is a popular destination offering a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. One of its main draws is its stunning white sand beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports like snorkeling and jet skiing.

After a day in the sun, Playa Del Carmen comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. The city has bars, clubs, and beach parties where you can dance the night away. The famous 5th Avenue, Playa Del Carmen’s main street, has restaurants, boutiques, and souvenir shops, providing endless shopping and dining experiences .

In addition to its beaches and nightlife, Playa Del Carmen also offers a variety of other attractions and activities. You can explore the underwater world by diving or snorkeling to the nearby Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. For a break from the beach, you can visit the stunning eco-parks Xcaret and Xel-Há, swim in natural cenotes, see exotic wildlife, and learn about Mayan culture.

Playa Del Carmen is a captivating destination combining beautiful white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, shopping options, and a rich cultural experience. Whether relaxing by the sea or immersing yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere, Playa Del Carmen has something for everyone.

Swim-Up Bars

Swim-up bars are popular in Costa Maya, offering a refreshing and convenient way to enjoy a drink while cooling off in the water. In the cruise port , you’ll find a variety of swim-up bars, each with unique offerings.

La Fruteria is a must-visit for those looking for a refreshing and healthy drinking experience. This swim-up bar specializes in fresh fruit cocktails, offering various delicious options with locally sourced fruits. Sip on a tropical delight while enjoying the pristine waters of Costa Maya.

If you’re a fan of minty cocktails, Mojito Bar is the place for you. This swim-up bar is dedicated to serving the best mojitos in town. Sit at the bar, order your favorite flavor, and watch as the talented bartenders skillfully craft your drink. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

For a taste of Mayan culture, visit El Chaman. This unique swim-up bar specializes in Mayan drinks made with mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. The bartenders here are experts in creating flavorful and authentic cocktails that will transport you to another time. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region while enjoying a delicious drink.

Whether you’re in the mood for fresh fruit cocktails, minty mojitos, or Mayan-inspired drinks, Costa Maya’s swim-up bars have something for everyone. Take a dip, cool off, and indulge in the unique flavors and experiences these bars offer . Cheers to a memorable time in Costa Maya!

Dolphin Discovery & Encounters

Dolphin Discovery & Encounters in Costa Maya provides an incredible opportunity to interact with these amazing marine animals. Located just steps from the cruise port , Dolphin Discovery offers visitors a convenient and unforgettable experience.

You can choose from two interactive experiences at Dolphin Discovery: the Dolphin Encounter and the Dolphin Swim Adventure. In the Dolphin Encounter, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the dolphins while standing on a platform in the water. You can pet them, receive a kiss on the cheek, and even play ball with these friendly creatures.

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, the Dolphin Swim Adventure allows you to swim and interact with the dolphins in deeper waters. You can swim alongside them, receive a thrilling belly ride, and even try boogie boarding with these playful creatures.

The Dolphin Encounter price starts at $99, while the Dolphin Swim Adventure costs $129. Both experiences provide a unique and unforgettable opportunity to connect with dolphins in their natural environment.

Whether you’re a marine animal enthusiast or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Dolphin Discovery & Encounters in Costa Maya is a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in the incredible world of dolphins and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya

Costa Maya is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, rich history, and ancient Mayan ruins. Exploring the Mayan ruins is a must-do for any history enthusiast or those seeking a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage. One of the most notable sites is the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, located just a short distance from the cruise port . Here, you can marvel at the towering pyramids, intricate carvings, and ancient temples that date back thousands of years. Guided tours are available to provide historical insights and explanations about the significance of these archaeological wonders. Immerse yourself in the mysteries of the Mayan civilization as you walk in the footsteps of an ancient civilization at Costa Maya’s Mayan ruins.

Chacchoben Ruins

Located just 45 miles from the Costa Maya cruise terminal, the Chacchoben Ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. Easily accessible, visitors can rent a car for a cheap day trip or join a group tour to explore these excavated pyramids.

A hidden gem, the Chacchoben Ruins provide a less crowded alternative to the popular Chichen Itza. This ancient site showcases the impressive architectural achievements of the Mayan people, with towering pyramids, intricately carved walls, and majestic staircases.

Stepping back in time, visitors can immerse themselves in the area’s rich history and imagine what life was like during the height of the Mayan civilization. The well-preserved structures offer a fascinating insight into their advanced society and architectural prowess.

Whether driving yourself or joining a group tour, visiting the Chacchoben Ruins is essential for any history enthusiast or culture lover. Soak in the atmosphere and learn about the ancient Mayan people while exploring this unique and fascinating archaeological site.

Plan your day trip to the Chacchoben Ruins from the Costa Maya cruise terminal and unlock the secrets of this ancient civilization.

Dzibanche Ruins

The Dzibanche Ruins, an impressive archaeological site near the Kohunlich Maya site, offer a unique and immersive experience for history and culture enthusiasts. While it may be best visited on a Costa Maya excursion due to the challenging road conditions, the journey is well worth it.

At the Dzibanche Ruins, visitors are greeted by well-preserved tall ruins, allowing them to step back in time and witness the grandeur of the Mayan civilization. One of the standout features of this site is the opportunity to climb to the top of temples, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.

Exploring the Dzibanche Ruins also offers a chance to learn about the daily life and rituals of the Mayan people. The site is home to one of the best examples of Mayan architecture, showcasing this ancient civilization’s advanced building techniques and skills.

Visiting the Dzibanche Ruins is a must for history buffs and culture lovers. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Mayan civilization, admire the impressive architecture, and gain a deeper understanding of this ancient society.

Kohunlich Ruins

The Kohunlich Ruins are undoubtedly one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Costa Maya region. Located over 100 miles from the cruise port, these ruins offer history enthusiasts a unique and immersive experience.

To visit the Kohunlich Ruins, it is advisable to rent a car and embark on a day trip that can also include stops at nearby attractions like Dzibanche Ruins and the stunning Bacalar Lagoon.

Once you arrive at Kohunlich, be prepared to be amazed by the grandeur of these Mayan ruins. The site features many well-preserved structures, including temples, palaces, ball courts, and residential complexes. One of the standout features is the Temple of the Large Masks, which showcases intricately carved stone masks that depict Mayan deities.

Exploring the Kohunlich Ruins offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization’s daily lives and architectural skills. As you wander through the site, you can’t help but marvel at the advanced building techniques and attention to detail that the Mayans possessed.

For a truly enriching experience, include the Kohunlich Ruins in your itinerary when visiting Costa Maya. Immerse yourself in the Mayan civilization’s rich history and cultural heritageas you explore this remarkable archaeological site.

Calakmul Biosphere Reserve & Ruins

The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve & Ruins is a must-visit destination in Costa Maya, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and ancient ruins. Located about two hours and 20 minutes from the port, the journey to Calakmul is well worth the chance to explore the impressive ruins of this once-mighty city.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the towering pyramids and well-preserved structures that make up the Calakmul archaeological site. Walking through this ancient city, one can’t help but be in awe of the advanced architectural techniques and intricate carvings that showcase the Mayan civilization’s glory.

The main highlights of Calakmul include its grand pyramids, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and give visitors a sense of the city’s former prominence. Additionally, the site features royal tombs, ball courts, and residential complexes, giving visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of the ancient Mayans.

Apart from the magnificent ruins, the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. With lush greenery, colorful birds, and mesmerizing wildlife, it’s an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the region’s natural beauty.

Visiting the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve & Ruins allows travelers to experience the rich history and natural wonders of Costa Maya. This destination should be noticed for those seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Located just two hours from Costa Maya, the Coba Ruins are a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers. These ancient Mayan ruins are known for their impressive Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest pyramid in the entire Yucatan Peninsula.

Once you arrive at the ruins, you’ll be greeted by a sprawling archaeological site that stretches across 30 square miles. The main highlight is the Nohoch Mul pyramid, standing at an impressive height of 137 feet. Climbing to the top of this pyramid is an exhilarating experience and offers breathtaking views of the lush surrounding jungle.

In addition to the pyramid, visitors can explore the many other ancient structures that make up the Coba Ruins. Discover well-preserved stelae, ball courts, and numerous scales (old Mayan roads). It is like stepping back in time and immersing yourself in the rich history of the Mayan civilization.

For those seeking an outdoor adventure, Coba also offers bike rentals, allowing you to explore the vast site at your own pace. You can discover hidden gems and lesser-known structures by riding your bike along the well-marked paths.

With its significant historical value and stunning architecture, the Coba Ruins are an essential stop on any Costa Maya itinerary. You can take advantage of this opportunity to delve into the ancient Mayan world and witness the grandeur of the Nohoch Mul pyramid.

Costa Maya FAQs

Why costa maya is so famous.

Costa Maya is a popular destination for travelers due to its rich cultural heritage and stunning beaches. It is an ideal spot for those seeking adventure, history, and relaxation. Costa Maya offers something for everyone, from its vibrant nightlife to its unique archaeological sites.

What country owns Costa Maya?

Costa Maya is part of Mexico and is located in the southeastern region of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is bordered by Belize to the south, Quintana Roo to the east, and Guatemala to the west.

What activities can I do in Costa Maya?

There are a variety of activities to enjoy in Costa Maya, ranging from relaxing on the beach to exploring ancient ruins. Visitors can also take part in a variety of water sports, such as snorkeling and scuba diving, or enjoy an eco-adventure through the jungle. Other popular activities include shopping in Mahahual and visiting the nearby islands of Cozumel and Holbox.

Is Costa Maya a US territory?

a Maya is not a US territory. It is part of Mexico and is located in the southeastern region of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Is Costa Maya safe to walk around?

Yes, Costa Maya is generally safe to walk around. As with any destination, it’s best to remain aware of your surroundings and take precautions if you plan to explore the area at night.

What is the best beach in Costa Maya near cruise port?

The best beach in Costa Maya near the cruise port is Playa Bonita. It is a beautiful stretch of white sand surrounded by lush palm trees and crystal-clear waters. Located just five minutes from the cruise port, it is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the stunning views.

What does Puerto Costa Maya mean?

Puerto Costa Maya is the port’s name in Costa Maya, Mexico. It is the gateway to this popular destination anda hub for cruise ships and other vessels.

What currency is used in Costa Maya?

The official currency used in Costa Maya is the Mexican peso. Cash is widely accepted and most establishments also offer credit card payment options.

What language is spoken in Costa Maya?

The official language of Costa Maya is Spanish, and English is also commonly spoken in tourist areas.

How far is Costa Maya from Cozumel?

Costa Maya is located approximately 80 miles (129 km) from Cozumel. The drive takes about 2.5 hours without traffic.

Table of Contents

• #CruisePort

Related Articles

Royal caribbean group announces industry-first loyalty match status accross it’s brands – royal caribbean international, celebrity cruises and silversea cruises, carnival cruise line partners with maritime and port university of mexico to launch new apprenticeship, carnival legend begins european sailings with upgrades, get the cruise addicts newsletter free.

Stay in the loop with the latest cruise news, tips, and reviews directly to your inbox.

Latest Articles

Princess unveils extended 2025-26 japan & southeast asia cruise season, amawaterways announces two new river ships for 2026.

© Copyright 2024 - Cruise Addicts

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Privacy Policy

• 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

10 Cozumel Restaurants & Bars Right at the Cruise Port

Had your fill of the ship’s buffet? Can’t stand another meal in the dining room? Or maybe you just want to go explore, grab a bite to eat on land, and enjoy your time in port over a meal and a drink.

No matter your reason for wanting to eat right near the Cozumel cruise port, we have you covered with a number of options for you to enjoy.

Cruise ships that visit Cozumel primarily dock at one of two piers located on the western side of the island. These piers lead to port areas all designed to cater to cruise passengers. There you will find dozens of shops, plenty of restaurants, bars, and things to see.

That means you can go and grab something tasty without having to venture far. 

We’ve rounded up a list of restaurants all within the port areas of the main terminals of Cozumel. These restaurants are nearly in the shadow of the cruise ships.

Many of these restaurants are popular American brands that will sound familiar. Others are local joints that can give you a little of the island’s flavor. Either way, they all offer a place to grab a bite to eat with the convenience of being right near the ship.

Be sure to see the map at the end of this article, showing all the restaurants on our list.

One note: There are two main piers in Cozumel. The International Pier (where Royal Caribbean ships dock) is located north of Puerta Maya (where Carnival brands dock). The two piers feature dedicated port areas that are closed off from each other. We’ve specified which pier the restaurants below are located. 

Three Amigos (Puerta Maya)

Three Amigos is a touristy bar and restaurant that’s loosely based on the classic comedy film by the same name (seriously, they have an “El Guapo” burger). As you would expect in a cruise port, the drinks flow freely and it’s a party atmosphere. Three Amigos serves classic Tex-Mex fare like nachos and guacamole, as well as burgers. You’ll also find plenty of colorful tropical drinks and margaritas if you’re thirsty.

From this spot you’ll have a great view looking back to your ship and it’s not a far walk should you have a little too much before you need to return to the ship.

Price: $15-25 per person | Read reviews of Three Amigos

Fat Tuesday (Puerta Maya)

As you would expect with a name like Fat Tuesday, this bar and restaurant has a Mardi Gras theme. Famous for its daiquiris, the restaurant also has a full menu of bar food, including hamburgers, nachos, wraps, and sandwiches. There is also Mexican food items like fajitas as well.

The vibe is definitely one of a party atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of loud music and dancing. Something about huge frozen daiquiris seems to put people in a fun mood!

Price: $15-25 per person | Read reviews of Fat Tuesday

Pancho’s Backyard (Puerta Maya)

If you want to a nice spot to dine near the cruise ship, sip some drinks, eat some great food, but be away from the party scene, then Pancho’s is a good choice.

It’s a relaxing atmosphere and more upscale (though not stuffy), right near the waterfront — you can literally see the cruise ships from the restaurant. The menu is Mexican food, but a little more authentic than the Tex-Mex served at other places. You can get nachos and quesadillas, but also ceviche and shrimp. Pancho’s is also famous for its margaritas.

Note: Free Wi-Fi is also available, making it a nice stop if you want to check your email on your phone.

Price: $15-25 per person | Read reviews of Pancho’s Backyard

Bar Mandy (International Pier)

Perhaps the most “low-key” of the places to eat, Bar Mandy is a casual open-air bar that you’ll find in the port area. It’s not fancy, but that’s the point. Stop in and grab a beer or a cocktail for a few bucks (be sure to bring cash; credit cards aren’t accepted).

Want something to eat? You’re in luck. There are tons of Mexican-food options available, from simple things like chips and guacamole to lobster burritos. Don’t expect fine china and white tablecloths here, however!

It’s great for both kids and adults and it’s perfect for one last bite to eat before heading back to the ship.

Price: $10-15 per person | Read reviews of Bar Mandy

Margaritaville (International Pier)

Ok, so it’s a bit of a tourist trap, but who cares when you are right on the water, watching the turquoise water of the Caribbean with a cold beer (or two) in your hand? There’s every type of booze you can imagine, as well as tons of bar food like “Volcano Nachos,” huge burgers, sandwiches, street tacos, and even ribs.

Like other bars in the area (Three Amigos, Fat Tuesday), expect the vibe to be lively with dancing, drinks, and an upbeat vibe. There are also plenty of places where you can get a fun souvenir photo and shopping for anything related to Jimmy Buffett.

Price: $20-30 per person | Read reviews of Margaritaville

Senor Frog’s (International Pier)

Perhaps the original of the upbeat “party” bars, Senor Frog’s has a well-known reputation as a place to relax, let loose, and have a drink. The location at the Cozumel pier is no different, sitting under a large palapa right on the water. There’s fantastic views back toward the ship.

As for the food, expect the typical Mexican beach fare. Guacamole, tacos, nachos are all on the menu, as are burgers, wings, and more. Drinks? Beer and tequila are popular, which might put you the mood to dance. The good news? That’s highly encouraged at this sort of spot. 

Price: $15-25 per person | Read reviews of Senor Frog’s

Cafe Punta del Cielo (International Pier)

If you’re wanting your coffee fix while in port, this is the place. The small café serves coffees, desserts, and pastries in an upscale, modern atmosphere. Wi-Fi is available, making it a nice spot to sit, relax, and email people back home to tell them how much fun you’re having on your cruise.

If you just want to hang out a little bit before heading back to the ship, this is ideal.

Price: $5-10 per person | Read reviews of Cafe Punta del Cielo

Hard Rock Cafe (Across from International Pier)

Technically this spot is outside of the port, but it’s so close that we will include it.

Hard Rock Café is a classic restaurant with locations everywhere from Cozumel to New York City. The food is definite American fare, so if you’re craving a big steak, burgers, pulled pork sandwiches or even a Caesar salad, then it’s your place.

What we think is coolest about Hard Rock is the memorabilia. There’s also a shop where you can get just about anything with Hard Rock written on it. (It’s also supposedly the smallest Hard Rock location in the world.)

Price: $15-25 per person | Read reviews of Hard Rock Cafe

Ix Kool (Across from International Pier)

The highest-rated restaurant in Cozumel on TripAdvisor? It’s this spot located in the Royal Village Shopping Center, which is just across from the International pier. It offers up Mayan cuisine, which may be something you haven’t experienced before. There are classic dishes like guacamole and ceviche, but also lots of offerings like pork tacos and papadzules (corn tortillas dipped in pumpkin seed sauce).

While it’s a bit adventurous, the reviews are outstanding, as is the service. If you want a meal that’s more authentic compared to what you usually find around the port, this is the place. 

Price: $10-15 per person | Read reviews of Ix Kool

San Juan Snack Bar (Across from International Pier)

Another low-key spot to grab a snack and a drink, San Juan is outside the port area but not a far walk. You’ll find that its less expensive than the restaurant/bars closer in to the ship and often has 2-for-1 drink specials. As far as eats, it’s typical Mexican fare (guac, nachos, quesadillas, etc.), along with some American items like chicken strips if you have kids that are picky eaters.

One nice perk is the free wi-fi, allowing you to check-in back home instead of the pricey service found on the ship.

Price: $10-15 per person | Read reviews of San Juan

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, 18 fun cheap (or free) things to do in cozumel, the complete guide to visiting cozumel on a cruise, 63 can’t-miss things for cruise passengers to do in cozumel, 8 top cozumel hotels & beaches with day passes for cruise passengers, the 8 closest beaches to the cozumel cruise port, complete list of cozumel taxi rates from the cruise port, leave a reply cancel reply.

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

Everything to Know About Interior Cruise Cabins (Read Before Booking)

5 easy ways to get to the los angeles and long beach cruise ports, carnival is taking over an entire cruise line to grow even larger, 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

The Best 27 Beaches In Costa Maya Close to the Cruise Port

• March 22, 2024
• Cruise Ports

Costa Maya, located in Quintana Roo, Mexico, is a favored port for Western Caribbean cruises , celebrated for its stunning beaches and clear waters. Wondering where to find the finest white sand beaches for your port day? Do you want an exclusive, all-inclusive beach day, including food, water activities, and pampering? Or would you prefer to relax in the shade of palm trees, sipping cocktails and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean?

Costa Maya’s beaches rank among Mexico’s most stunning, yet this gem remains less famous compared to well-known spots like Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen to the north. This actually works in your favor. While finding a spot on a Cancun beach might be a challenge, Costa Maya offers the chance to enjoy a beach all to yourself, if you know where to look.

Caribbean cruise visitors can choose from many beach clubs near the Costa Maya Cruise Port . Options range from hiring a beach chair at one of the many lively beach bars in the beach town, Mahahual, to luxury VIP beach resorts south of Costa Maya. But with limited time in port, you want to choose the right beach destination to maximize your relaxation and enjoyment.

This article is a guide to the top beaches near Costa Maya Cruise Port, a popular cruise port. You will learn about the most popular beach clubs in the nearby town offering day passes for cruise passengers. I’ve also listed the available amenities, approximate cost, and other tips to make your day in the port memorable.

In this guide, I’ve selected beach resorts that are no more than an hour’s drive from the cruise port terminal. This way, you can maximize your time enjoying the beach instead of wasting the majority of your day on the road.

Why Choose a Beach Club in Costa Maya

Relaxing on a gorgeous beach is a great way to spend time in Costa Maya. The best beach clubs offer day passes that give you access to a varied range of facilities and amenities. These can include complimentary food and drinks, snorkeling, kayaking, beach loungers, freshwater pools, and round-trip transportation.

Beyond the immediate comfort and entertainment, these activities give you a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Located just offshore, this reef system is the largest in the Northern Hemisphere, providing a vibrant underwater landscape teeming with marine life, making your beach day not just relaxing but also an exploration of one of the world’s most vital and magnificent coral ecosystems.

You’ll find that the beach bars and free beaches in Costa Maya village can be hectic on cruise days, especially if many ships are in the port. Therefore, you may want to choose a beach club outside the town. This way, you can escape the commotion of hundreds of tourists looking for the best spot on the beach.

For example, private beach clubs like Maya Chan, Hayhu, and Almaplena are small corners of paradise on the Caribbean coast . You can reserve your spot in advance and enjoy the peace and tranquility you expect in tropical destinations. And you don’t have to worry about getting there—the resorts arrange taxis.

How to Choose the Best Costa Maya Beach Excursion

How can you choose the best resort to spend your cruise day in the quaint fishing village of Costa Maya?

The primary consideration is time. If you plan to take a shore excursion to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, you should choose a beach close to the cruise terminal in the village. However, if you plan to spend the entire day at the beach, try one of the resorts south of Mahahual village.

Then, decide on what you want from your beach day. A beach-day pass typically gives you access to the following amenities and facilities:

• Free food and drink (check to see if there are limits)
• Beach lounge chairs
• Snorkeling gear
• Kayaks or paddle boards
• Bathroom facilities and showers
• Water sports lessons for kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and scuba diving
• Massage and spa facilities
• A restricted number of places so the resort is never overcrowded

Map of Beaches in Costa Maya Close to the Cruise Port

The Best Beach Clubs in Mahahual (Near the Cruise Port)

Here are the best beach clubs if you want to stay close to the cruise terminal in Costa Maya.

Mahahual Beach

Mahahual Beach is the closest beach to the cruise port in Costa Maya. Being the nearest beach, it’s where most passengers go after disembarking. You can walk to Mahahual Beach from the cruise terminal, but it takes 40 minutes, and it’s usually easier to get a taxi, shuttle bus, or golf cart.

You’ll find that the beach in Mahahual stretches for a mile. The beach is lined with small clubs, beach bars, and cafes. Therefore, if you plan on staying in the village, it’s best to take your time to pick a beach club you prefer. The beach facilities include snorkeling, kayaking in glass-bottomed boats, scuba diving, and trips to Banco Chinchorro coral reef reserve.

Banco Chinchorro is a captivating atoll reef off the southeastern coast of Mexico, near the Belize border. It’s part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the largest coral reef system in the Northern Hemisphere and the second-largest in the world. Home to tropical fish, turtles, mangroves, crabs, and nine shipwrecks, it’s also one of the most extensive barrier reefs in the Northern Hemisphere. Therefore, Mahahual Beach provides some of the best diving opportunities on your Caribbean cruise.

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 10 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus
• Type of Access: Free public access and a variety of beach clubs
• Amenities: Beach loungers, umbrellas, showers, restrooms, water sports rental equipment
• Activities: Snorkeling, diving, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding
• Food and Beverages: A variety of beachfront restaurants and bars serving local and international cuisine, seafood dishes, refreshing drinks, and cocktails
• Price Range: $-$$$
• Atmosphere: Relaxed and friendly, some clubs have a party atmosphere
• Accessibility: Ramps leading to shoreline

Krazy Lobster

The Krazy Lobster is one of the most popular spots in Mahahual to relax in the Caribbean sun. The beachfront cafe has a wide range of seafood dishes—from fish to ceviche, shrimp, and lobster. You can also rent beach lounge chairs, umbrellas, hammocks, showers, and palapas. It also has free WiFi for uploading your snaps.

In addition to serving delicious Mexican food, you can also hire kayaks and paddle boards to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. However, if you need some pampering, you can arrange massages in their outdoor spa. There is no need to book, and the facilities are available for ordering food.

If you’re interested in jet skiing, inquire about renting jet skis at Krazy Lobster.

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 10 minutes
• Type of Access: Free access to facilities and the beach 
• Amenities: Kayaks, paddle boards, showers, Wi-Fi, lockers, lounge chairs
• Activities: Swimming and snorkeling
• Food and Beverages: Complimentary margarita when you buy food
• Price Range: $-$$ (lobster is $25).
• Atmosphere: Friendly and relaxed

Malecón 21 Beach Club

The Malecón 21 Beach Club is located at the south end of the beach town. It’s one of the best beaches in the area to relax and soak up the sun on the white sand beach. The restaurant and beach club has a more upmarket feel than many of the other beachfront cafes and clubs.

After arriving at the cruise terminal, you can take a taxi to the beach club. A beach-day pass gives you access to beach beds and free WiFi. Depending on the package, you can get unlimited drinks and one meal from the menu. The club also offers massage and hot stone massage services for an extra cost. 

The Malecón 21 gets excellent customer reviews, and it’s not as busy as some other beach clubs in the north of the village. It’s also beside one of the best places for snorkeling in the sea, and you can book scuba diving lessons at the Mahahual Dive Center. Note that you must arrange transportation yourself. 

• Type of Access: Open to the public, no reservation required
• Amenities: Beach lounges and Wi-Fi
• Activities: Massage for an extra charge, $45-$90
• Food and Beverage: All-inclusive packages cost $60 to $120 per person
• Price Range: $$-$$$
• Atmosphere: Relaxed and kid-friendly
• Accessibility: Wheelchair ramp to the shade lounge area

Yaya Beach Club

Yaya Beach Club is a laid-back, family-friendly beach club located in Mahahual. The club offers shaded beach beds and lounge chairs under palapas. The restaurant serves various dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine. There is also an extensive drinks menu selling a range of cocktails and spirits.

Facilities at the Yaya Beach Club are limited if you want more than food and beverages and to relax in the sun. They offer three bar packages—Standard, Deluxe, and Platinum. Each package gives access to a lounge sunbed in the shade. Only the Deluxe and Platinum packages include food.

• Type of Access: Open to the public, and advance reservation is recommended
• Amenities:  Beach sun lounges, fresh water showers, and free WiFi (note, there are no lockers)
• Activities: Massage with a professional masseuse for an extra charge
• Food and Beverages: All-inclusive beach-day packages range from $50 to $100
• Atmosphere: Family-friendly and relaxed
• Accessibility: Wheelchair access

Nacional Beach Club and Bungalows

Located in the center of the beach town, the Nacional Beach Club offers VIP beach-day passes for cruise ship passengers. The beach club’s main attractions are its tasty food and beach chairs. The all-inclusive package costs $135 and includes food throughout the day, drinks, and bottled water. 

The National Beach Club is an excellent place to relax away from the masses of tourists and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. The day-long access to food and drinks makes it somewhat reasonable. However, it lacks facilities for water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking. 

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 10 minutes by taxi
• Type of Access: Open to the public, and reservation is advisable
• Amenities: Beach chairs, umbrellas, towels, fresh-water showers, and restrooms
• Activities: None
• Food and Beverages: Traditional Mexican cuisine, including lunch, breakfast, and dinner, plus free drinks for $135
• Price Range: $$$
• Accessibility: Accessible for strollers, but no wheelchair access

Chunky Monkey Beach Club

The Chunky Monkey Beach Club is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Mahahual on cruise days.

The club has stunning panoramic views over the pristine waters of the Caribbean. It has a private beach, away from pesky sellers that try to sell trinkets and souvenirs. The beach-day pass includes a snorkeling trip, lunch and drinks.

One of the best things about spending a cruise day at Chunky Monkey Beach Club is the proximity of the coral reef. Just 350 ft (107 m) from the shore, you can snorkel around the reef looking for exotic marine life like stingrays, turtles, and shoals of tropical fish, not to mention the beautiful corals.

If you don’t want to take the boat trip, you can switch it to a 60—or 90-minute massage.

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 15 minutes
• Type of Access: Private beach access
• Amenities: 60 or 90-minute boat trip included, massage, lunch, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) all day, fresh water showers, and sun beds
• Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, and massage
• Food and Beverages: Traditional Mexican food and cocktails, $100 for adults and $45 for children
• Price Range: $$
• Atmosphere: Super-relaxed and welcoming

Pez Quadro Beach Club (40 Canones Hotel)

If you’re looking to spend your day enjoying a white sand beach and swimming in blue waters, Pez Quadro Beach Club is the perfect choice. The beach club offers cruise travelers day passes that allow you to unwind and soak up the sun on the beach. These packages include complimentary drinks, one dish from the menu, and a guaranteed lounge chair.

Pez Quadro Beach Club has good, clean facilities that include restrooms, showers, and free WiFi. You can also book additional excursions for an extra price. These include snorkeling, catch-and-release fishing, and bottom fishing. And to relax, you can arrange a full-body, deep-tissue professional massage.

The proximity of the beach lounges to the sea means that vendors tend to pester guests. Also, some people report that the food is average and overpriced.

• Type of Access: Private for hotel guests or purchasing a beach package
• Amenities: Lounge chairs, fresh-water showers, restrooms (no towels)
• Activities: Fishing, snorkeling, diving, and massages for an additional cost
• Food and Beverages: $55 or $95 for the food and drinks packages
• Price Range: $$-$$$, ($90 to $130 per hour for fishing)
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs

Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill

The Tropicante AmeriMex Grill is a favorite beach bar with cruise travelers. It’s a bar-restaurant situated in the center of Mahahual. With stunning views over the calm waters of the Caribbean, you can relax on a sun lounger under an umbrella. The atmosphere is incredibly laid-back, and the scrumptious food and drinks are very affordably priced.

Unlike the other beachfront establishments in this review, the Tropicante AmeriMex Grill is more of an informal restaurant/bar than a beach club. However, you can do everything you want on a Caribbean cruise excursion—eat, drink, swim, snorkel in blue, shallow waters, and get a massage.

• Type of Access: Free to anyone
• Amenities: Lounge chairs, umbrellas on a first-come-first-served basis, and Wi-Fi
• Activities: Swimming and sunbathing
• Food and Beverages: Combination of Mexican, Caribbean, and American cuisine
• Price Range: $
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, laid-back atmosphere made better by a friendly host
• Accessibility: Wheelchair access from the Malecon (promenade)

Barefoot Beach Club at Costa Maya

Just 10 minutes from the Caribbean cruise port, the Barefoot Beach Club offers a day of fun and Mexican culture. The spectacular beachfront club has swaying palm trees and palapas, giving it a truly tropical feel. The club provides an all-inclusive package with food, cocktails, hammocks, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Barefoot Beach Club boasts pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for relaxation. The ultimate beach-day pass is the deluxe package that includes a dish from the lunch menu, free drinks, and a one-hour massage.

All day packages include a reserved lounge chair, shaded palapa, snorkel gear, free kayak use, and complimentary Wi-Fi. It seems like the perfect place to spend the entire day on Mahahual Beach, Costa Maya.

• Type of Access: Pre-booking only
• Amenities: Reserved lounge chairs, umbrellas, palapas, inflatable water toys, snorkeling and kayaking gear, and restrooms (no towels)
• Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, 
• Food and Beverages: Full restaurant and bar serving a range of Mexican and international cuisine
• Atmosphere: Relaxed atmosphere and suitable for families

Big Mama Beach Club

The Big Mama all-inclusive beach club lets you escape the commotion of hundreds of tourists when several cruise ships are in port. The club has pristine white sandy beaches and offers a range of activities and delicious food. You can go snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. And you have a reserved lounge chair.

Located in the center of Mahahual Beach, the beach club lets you come and go throughout the day. Therefore, you also get the chance to explore the village. However, with so much to do at the club, the chances are you’ll not venture far.

All packages include a selection of food and drinks, free WiFi, a reserved lounge chair, shaded palapas, and one hour for snorkeling and kayaking in the calm water around the reef. The VIP day pass also includes a massage. Also, remember to bring a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes.

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 10 to 15 minutes
• Type of Access: Reservation only with limited availability to ensure it’s never crowded
• Amenities: Paddle boards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, and beach inflatables.
• Activities: Paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, and, for an extra fee, scuba diving, boat trips, and parasailing
• Food and Beverages: Traditional Mexican nachos, tacos, quesadillas, and burritos, as well as a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Price Range: $$, adult day passes range from $40 to $70
• Atmosphere: Calm and peaceful without the hum of hundreds of tourists

Blue Kay Eco Resort

The Blue Kay Resort, positioned conveniently near the Costa Maya cruise port terminal and just steps away from the iconic Faro de Mahahual lighthouse, offers a comprehensive beach day experience. This resort provides a beautiful beach setting, engaging water activities, and a range of dining options, including a restaurant and bar, complemented by all-day snacks and drinks.

An additional unique feature available for guests is the opportunity to book a Temazcal ceremony separately. This traditional Mexican steam room experience is designed for purification and renewal, offering an enriching cultural experience beyond the standard amenities, as an optional extra for those interested.

Several excursions are available at the beach club; however, you must pay separately. You can book snorkeling and scuba diving boat tours. Additionally, you can cleanse your mind and body with the therapeutic Temazcal. The reasonably priced day pass includes drinks and snacks; you can order lunch from the menu. 

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: Less than 10 minutes
• Type of Access: Private—for resort residents and day-pass holders
• Amenities: Restaurant, beach access, lounge chairs (no reservations), and fresh-water showers
• Activities: Most watersports for an extra charge
• Food and Beverages: Traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, quesadillas, or nachos, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Price Range: $-$$, prices from $22 to $70 per adult
• Atmosphere: relaxed and suitable for families and children

Maramao Beach Club (El Fuerte Hotel)

The Maramao Beach Club is a beautiful beach resort in the center of Mahahual with one of the best beaches in the village. With stunning views over the Caribbean, you can enjoy lunch, drinks all day, a 30-minute massage, and a snack plate. Additionally, you get a reserved lounge chair in the shade and a snorkel mask to explore the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

The Maramao resort is more expensive and has fewer facilities than other beach clubs. However, it’s incredibly peaceful, allowing you to unwind. And the addition of the professional massage will help restore your inner peace.

The beach-day pass doesn’t include transportation or towels.

• Type of Access: Private access for resort residents and day-pass holders
• Amenities: Shaded sun loungers, showers, restrooms, and a snorkel mask
• Activities: Only a massage is included, and you can book additional excursions beforehand
• Food and Beverages: One dish from the menu and all-day snacks and drinks
• Price Range: $$-$$$, prices starting from $33
• Atmosphere: Quiet and peaceful
• Accessibility: Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers

Los Arrecifes in Costa Maya

Los Arrecifes is a beach club and part of the attractive stretch of Mahahual Beach. This stunning beach has shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and vibrant coral reefs. The day pass gives you access to lounge chairs, shaded palapas, and free food and drink (depending on the package).

You’ll love spending your day lounging on the beach, swimming in the warm waters, or snorkeling among the colorful marine life. If you are more adventurous, you can book a variety of water sports at an additional cost. The coral reefs just off the shore are perfect for viewing a variety of tropical fish and even turtles.

Guests can enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine at the on-site restaurant and bar, with options like nachos, tacos, quesadillas, and burritos. All packages for adults include an open bar pass.

• Type of Access: Only available for hotel residents and day-pass holders
• Amenities: Beach chairs, loungers, restrooms, fresh-water showers, and Wi-Fi
• Activities: Swimming, massage, and, for an additional cost, various water sports
• Food and Beverages: Serves a selection of traditional Mexican food, cocktails, and local beers.
• Atmosphere: Family-friendly and uncrowded
• Accessibility: Access for wheelchairs and strollers

Nohoch Kay is a good-value beach club at the southern end of Mahahual village. Unlike some beachfront clubs in the center of the town, Nohach Kay is relatively spacious, with plenty of room on the beach and sea. The all-inclusive pass includes an all-day open bar, an excellent lunch menu, and snorkeling gear.

The stunning stretch of white sandy, uncrowded beach lined with palm trees is ideal for relaxing. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are suitable for snorkeling or kayaking in clear-bottom kayaks. You can also pre-book sailing and snorkeling excursions to explore the stunning coral reef at Banco Chinchorro.

• Type of Access: Only available with a day pass
• Amenities: Lounge chairs, shaded palapas, umbrellas, snorkeling gear
• Activities: Swimming and snorkeling, with options for booking additional water excursions
• Food and Beverages: The usual range of Mexican dishes, cocktails, cold beer, and soft drinks
• Price Range: $$-$$$, an all-inclusive day pass is $70, and sailing and snorkeling tours are between $45 and $200, depending on the package
• Atmosphere: Joyful and relaxed
• Accessibility: Wheelchair access to the resort

Pitaya Beach Club

The Pitaya Beach Club is a trendy spot located in the center of Mahahual Beach. The club offers a more laid-back beach experience on the shores of the Caribbean. Depending on the type of package—three are available for adults—you get access to the following:

• Unlimited drinks
• Kayak and paddleboard
• Snorkeling tour (VIP package)

You can also order a professional full-body massage to help you relax on your vacation. The beach club also serves a range of Mexican and international-style fast food and cocktails.

• Type of Access: Free for anyone
• Amenities: Lounge chairs, shaded sitting and dining areas
• Activities: Swimming and snorkeling, with options for a snorkeling boat tour for $30
• Food and Beverages: Choice of Mexican fast food, cocktails, local beer, and non-alcoholic drinks
• Price Range: $-$$, $45, $55, and $100 for the all-inclusive packages
• Atmosphere: Party atmosphere
• Accessibility: No wheelchair access

Best Costa Maya Beach Clubs Outside Mahahual

Booking a beach pass in one of the stunning beach clubs outside the port town is the best way to escape the Mahahual crowds. In these picturesque corners of paradise, you won’t be bothered by annoying street vendors, hordes of people, or noisy ATVs. Instead, you can relax in the Caribbean sun, enjoying the panoramic views.

Maya Chan Beach Club

The Maya Chan Beach Club is one of the most popular locations for a day at the beach in Costa Maya. It’s far enough away from Costa Maya, which can feel packed on cruise days. You can also arrive later than planned if you want to shop in the Costa Maya cruise port or village.

The all-inclusive resort is ideal for a stress-free beach break. You have a reserved spot in the shade, so there is no rush to get off the ship. The beach-day pass includes snorkel gear, glass-bottom kayaks, and pre-arranged transportation from the cruise terminal. As they say, “It’s your vacation, own it.”

Here are a few things you can expect if you reserve a spot at the Maya Chan Beach Resort:

• Pristine beach with few other tourists
• All-day open bar
• All-you-can-eat Mayan-inspired buffet
• Guaranteed shaded location on the private, secluded beach
• Use of glass-bottom kayaks, beach toys, and professional snorkeling equipment

One of the reasons discerning cruise travelers choose the Maya Chan beach resort is their tasty menu. They serve lunch fresh off the grill when you want, not on a set schedule. 

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 30 minutes by pre-arranged taxi
• Type of Access: Private
• Amenities: Clean bathrooms, fresh-water showers, life jackets, free WiFi, lockers, changing rooms, floating chairs, plenty of shaded areas
• Activities: Snorkeling and kayaking
• Food and Beverages:  Mayan-inspired buffet that includes chips, guacamole, and salsa, complemented by a refreshing rum punch. Additionally, there’s an all-day open bar with food cooked to order.
• Price Range: $$, $80 for the all-inclusive day pass
• Atmosphere: Tranquil, away from the commotion of Costa Maya
• Awards: Travellers’ Choice 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020
• Accessibility: No wheelchair access 

La Bamba Beach

Leave the hustle and bustle of Costa Maya and head to La Bamba Beach Club. The club is on a private, secluded beach with picturesque white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. The exclusive beach club provides an open bar, kayaks, and lounge chairs. 

It is the perfect spot for you to relax and soak up the sun after disembarking the cruise ship in Costa Maya. The club also features two “container” pools filled with fresh water. Additionally, you can go swimming and play beach volleyball and beach games.

La Bamba Beach is the ideal spot to have fun away from the commotion and packed beaches that sometimes occur on busy cruise days in Costa Maya. 

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 25 minutes
• Type of Access: Private reservation required on the cruise line
• Amenities: Shaded lounge chairs, kayaks, live music, grill menu, changing rooms, restrooms, lifeguards, and transportation
• Activities: Kayaking, kiteboarding, snorkeling, and windsurfing
• Food and Beverages: Mostly a grill menu and all-day cocktails
• Price Range: $-$$
• Atmosphere: The live music creates a party atmosphere
• Accessibility: Limited accessibility for wheelchairs 

Almaplena Beach Resort

Almaplena Beach is one of the most secluded beaches near Costa Maya. Located 17 miles (27 km) from the cruise port, Almaplena Beach Resort offers everything you need for a relaxing Caribbean holiday. You can enjoy a pristine white sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, shaded beach beds, and food.

The beach break packages include lunch, an all-you-can-drink open bar, snorkel gear, a fresh-water pool, a Mayan jewelry shop, and a guaranteed shaded area. The coral reef is also close to the resort, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Also, the private beach means total privacy during your cruise day on the beach.

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 35 minutes 
• Type of Access: Private, pre-booking with the cruise line is recommended
• Amenities: Lounge chairs, clean restrooms, changing rooms, showers, free WiFi, guaranteed shaded area, pool, round-trip transportation
• Activities: Snorkeling and massage (extra charge)
• Food and Beverages: A choice of tacos and nachos, including an open bar throughout your stay
• Price Range: $$-$$$, the day pass is $96 for adults, and add-ons include first-row lounges, snorkel equipment, massage, lobster, and sparkling wine
• Atmosphere: Relaxed and peaceful 

Hayhu Beach Club

The Hayhu is a stunning beach club 19 miles (30 km) south of the cruise port in Costa Maya. The club features a private beach with white sands and crystal-clear blue waters. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing and luxurious experience in a private beach shack with your partner or friends. 

Hayhu Beach Club is surrounded by lush vegetation and swaying palm trees, creating the perfect tropical paradise setting. Facilities at the high-end club include kayaking, kiteboarding, massage, towels, and transportation. 

If you want complete privacy, the VIP package gives you access to a private deck with a shaded dining area, hammock, towels, and full bathroom facilities. There are also paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment included in the price.

To get the best out of your visit to Hayhu Beach, you can book a massage for $40 to $60. The standard package and VIP package include credit to order food from the tasty a la carte menu.

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 35 minutes
• Type of Access: Advance booking is essential
• Amenities: Private beach, kayaking, lounge chairs, round transportation
• Activities: Kayaking, snorkeling, kiteboarding lessons (for an extra charge), massage (for an extra charge)
• Food and Beverages: A la carte menu, and you must order food and drinks separately
• Price Range: $$$, a day pass is $250 for two people and $600 for the private deck experience (up to 6 people)
• Atmosphere: High-end but relaxed and informal

Xahuayxol Beach Club

Xahuayxol Beach Club is located beside a beautiful stretch of white sand beach lined with palm trees. It’s 25 miles (40 km) from Costa Maya Cruise Port and offers you an unforgettable Caribbean experience. A reef 350 feet (107 m) from the shoreline makes it ideal for snorkeling in the shallow waters to marvel at marine life and colorful corals.

Xahuayxol means “Garden of the Sea,” and this tranquil beach club offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking in glass-bottomed boats, and snorkeling. The beach-day pass also includes appetizers, lunch, and an open bar. Free WiFi is also available in this tropical paradise.

Including transportation, the entire shore excursion takes five hours.

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: 50 minutes
• Type of Access: Private, pre-booking required
• Amenities: Shaded sun loungers and kayaks
• Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, and sunbathing
• Food and Beverages: Traditional Mexican snacks, fresh fish, ceviche
• Price Range: $$, a day pass costs $75 per person
• Accessibility: Not accessible for wheelchairs

Global Costa Maya Beach Club

The Global Costa Maya Beach Club is 6.5 miles (10.5 km) north of the cruise terminal and has a 650-foot (198 m) stretch of private white sand beach. The private beach resort and club features several swimming pools, beach beds, sun loungers, and an excellent restaurant. You can also hire kayaks, jet skis, and bikes. Additionally, you can arrange scuba diving.

If you want the ultimate luxury beach club experience in Costa Maya, the Global Costa Maya is the best choice. Despite being a stone’s throw from the port, this secluded spot offers privacy from throngs of cruise passengers. Three packages are available—Families, Adults, and VIP. 

• Distance from Costa Maya Cruise Port: Approximately 6.5 miles (10.5 km), which is about a 15-minute drive
• Amenities: Shaded sun loungers, beds, showers, shopping, spa, pool lounge area, pool bar and kayaks
• Activities: Snorkeling, diving, tennis, gym, kayaking and sunbathing
• Price Range: $$, VIP day pass is $60 per person, Adult is $50, and Family is $40 per person
• Atmosphere: High class but relaxed and informal
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Other Beaches in Costa Maya

Costa Maya also has several other stunning beaches south of Mahahual. However, their distance makes them impractical if you have limited time in port. These beaches include:

• Xcalak Beach Resorts
• Playa Sonrisa
• Punta Xcayal Beach

Beach Resorts at Bacalar Lagoon (Seven Colors Lagoon)

Spending a day at the beach while docked in Costa Maya doesn’t always include swimming in the Caribbean Sea. The Bacalar Lagoon is a spectacular freshwater lake with ample opportunities for swimming in fresh water and kayaking in the stunning lagoon.

However, it’s important to note that travel to the lagoon takes around 1hr 30 minutes. Therefore, planning a shore excursion is only feasible if you have a long time in port.

In most cases, it’s best to plan a shore excursion to Bacalar Lagoon that includes a mixture of water activities, lunch, and maybe a visit to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins. This way, you can maximize your time in Costa Maya.

If you have more time to spend in and around Costa Maya, some of the best beach clubs in Bacalar Lagoon include the following: 

• Bacalar Beach Club
• Beach Club Blu
• Bertilla Lagoon and Beach Club Bacalar

Costa Maya Beaches: FAQs

To help you prepare for your cruise day in Costa Maya, here are some answers to some questions you may still have.

Is Costa Maya safe to walk around?

Costa Maya is generally safe to walk around. The village is relatively small and built around the tourist industry. Of course, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. These include staying in popular tourist areas and always keeping your belongings with you.

What is the best beach in Costa Maya near the cruise port?

Mahahual Beach stretches the length of the fishing village and has several cafes and bars offering all-inclusive packages. Pez Quadro Beach Club and Krazy Lobster are two highly rated spots for cruise passengers. However, if you want to travel outside the city, Maya Chan offers the best tranquil beach experience.

What currency is used in Costa Maya?

The official currency used in Costa Maya is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Although some businesses may accept US dollars, it’s recommended to have pesos for better exchange rates. Also, you may receive your change in pesos if you pay in dollars.

One peso is approximately 5 cents. However, be aware that the peso sign is also $. You may also see prices listed in MX, MXN, or Mex$. Therefore, always be sure of the currency before paying.

What language is spoken in Costa Maya?

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Costa Maya. English is also widely understood in tourist areas, especially hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, as a courtesy to locals, and considering Spanish is widely spoken throughout the Caribbean, learning some Spanish phrases is always recommended.

What is the closest beach to the Costa Maya cruise port?

Mahahual Beach is the closest to the Costa Maya cruise port. You can get there from the terminal building by taxi, shuttle bus, golf cart, or electric bike. Walking from the cruise port building is also possible, but it takes 40 minutes.

Is the water in Costa Maya blue?

The sea in Costa Maya is renowned for its stunning blue hues, reflecting the Caribbean’s vibrant colors. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking in glass-bottomed boats. Also, Costa Maya is home to the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere.

Is it OK to drink tap water at resorts in Mexico?

Drinking tap water at resorts in Mexico is generally not recommended. Stick to bottled or purified water, which is readily available. Also, check local cafes before purchasing food or drinks to confirm they use purified water when preparing beverages or food.

Do Costa Maya beaches have seaweed (sargassum)?

Costa Maya beaches can experience mild to severe seaweed problems. However, there is an anti-seaweed barrier in the sea, and local businesses clean the beaches regularly. Therefore, it’s relatively rare to experience heavy influxes of seaweed.

When is seaweed season in Costa Maya?

Seaweed season in Costa Maya typically occurs during the summer months, particularly from May to October. However, seaweed influxes can vary from year to year. This is due to environmental factors like currents and weather patterns. But it’s always best to check the seaweed conditions online before arriving at the port.

In any case, wearing water shoes is always recommended on Costa Maya beaches. This is to protect your feet from sharp rocks, coral fragments, and sea urchins hidden under the sand and in the water.

Related articles:

• Must-Do Activities in Costa Maya During a Cruise Port Day
• Cruise Ports in the Western Caribbean You Should Visit
• Caribbean Cruise Destinations You Should Visit

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

Flannels or FlipFlops

Can’t Miss Things to Do While in Costa Maya

Posted: June 2, 2024 | Last updated: June 2, 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 , 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

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.

More for You

Loyalty at work no longer pays — and it's employers who are to blame

“He wanted to sit on the porch and smoke his pipe”: Clint Eastwood’s Comment About His Favorite Movie Villain Should Put Thanos on Oscar Winner’s List

Fani Willis Blew It, Legal Experts Say

Everything that happens to your body after you drink Coca-Cola

George Clooney called White House to complain about Biden’s criticism of ICC and defend wife’s work: report

18 Things That Will Happen if 70 Becomes the New Retirement Age in the US

30 food items that you might not know are banned in America

'The worst investment people can make': Real estate guru Grant Cardone says too many Americans are chasing after the dream of homeownership. Here's what he thinks you should do instead

“Full House” Star Dave Coulier Admits His Character’s Last Name Was a Stoner Pun

Florida Supreme Court sides with DeSantis, denies reinstating former state attorney

Not everyone should sleep on their left side — leading sleep doctor explains why

10 most common PINs have been revealed – see if yours is on the list

I'm a Pastor—I Was Afraid to Admit My Diagnosis

Doris Burke’s Awkward Exchange With JJ Redick Left Fans Cringing During NBA Finals

Jets' draft bust says New York was the 'last place I should've gone,' says team had 'no plan'

'Languid pace': Supreme Court yet to issue several major rulings like presidential immunity case

The 25 worst beers in the world, based on reviews from beer lovers

The most famous acting families of all time

6 Signs That You Should Dump Your Psychiatrist, According to a Mental Health Professional

This Is What a TSA Agent First Notices About You

Galveston cruise port: A guide to cruising from Texas

The Port of Galveston is the fourth-most-popular cruise home port in the U.S., having hosted 1.49 million cruise passengers in 2023.

While that's still a small number compared to the Florida ports ( Miami , Port Canaveral near Orlando and Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades ), the Port of Galveston continues to grow. The ships are getting bigger, cruise lines are expanding the itineraries they offer from Galveston and, in 2025, MSC Cruises will begin homeporting in Galveston with the introduction of year-round sailings on MSC Seascape . The total number of ship calls on the port's 2024 calendar is 388.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Most cruises from Galveston visit the Western Caribbean destinations of Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Belize; Jamaica; and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. However, you can find other options; for example, Carnival Cruise Line offers longer sailings (up to 14 nights) that include Eastern and Southern Caribbean ports.

Galveston itself is a beach destination worth spending time in either pre- or post-cruise, with a variety of hotel choices ranging from economy to luxury to historic. Families can find plenty to enjoy, and adults can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

Galveston cruise port overview

Port of Galveston cruise terminal information

Terminals 25 and 28: 2502 Harborside Dr., Galveston, Texas 77550

Terminal 10: 1028 Harborside Dr., Galveston, Texas 77550

Terminal 16: 1401 Harborside Dr., Galveston, Texas 77550 (tentative address)

Number of terminals: Four (as of 2025)

Cruise lines sailing from the Port of Galveston

Terminal 10

Royal Caribbean bases three ships here, offering a mix of eight-night Bahamas cruises, which visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, and four- to eight-night cruises primarily in the Western Caribbean.

Terminal 16 (opening in November 2025)

MSC Cruises will base MSC Seascape year-round at a new terminal in Galveston. The ship will sail to the Western Caribbean, visiting Cozumel, Roatan and Mexico's Costa Maya.

Terminals 25 and 28

Multiple cruise lines share terminals 25 and 28. Carnival rotates a fleet of four ships year-round in Galveston, including the line's Texas flagship, Carnival Jubilee . The fleet offers four- to 14-night cruises throughout Mexico, the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Princess Cruises sails seasonally from Galveston, offering four- to 11-night cruises in the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Norwegian Cruise Line rotates a variety of ships seasonally through the Port of Galveston, offering seven- to 14-night sailings throughout the Caribbean, including visits to the line's private island, Harvest Caye, in Belize. Norwegian also sometimes offers one-way cruises from Galveston on point-to-point sailings to other destinations like Central and South America.

Disney Magic runs seasonally from Galveston, offering four- to six-night Western Caribbean itineraries.

You can find full calendars for the port on its website.

Closest airports to the Galveston cruise port

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is in north Houston, approximately 71 miles from the Port of Galveston. Airlines that fly to IAH include United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Delta fans can save with the airline's annual companion certificate via its American Express-branded credit cards.

IAH is a United hub, with airline-branded lounges in four of the five terminals, including a Polaris Lounge in Terminal E. Terminal D at IAH features an Amex Centurion Lounge with access for holders of The Platinum Card® from American Express .

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is a bit closer to the port (41 miles) but is served by fewer airlines. Look for flights on Southwest Airlines, Jet Blue, American and Delta. Southwest offers the opportunity to fly two-for-one with the Southwest Companion Pass .

Houston Hobby lacks luxury lounges, but does have a Gameway gaming lounge, with access available to Priority Pass members via a selection of credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

How to get to the Port of Galveston

Cruisers have multiple options for getting to the Port of Galveston, including:

The port of Galveston is on a coastal barrier island south of the city of Houston. The main highway into Galveston is Interstate Highway 45. It is possible to arrive from the east using the Port Bolivar car ferry, but the potential for ferry delays often outweighs the extra driving time it takes to go around the bay to reach the I-45 bridge.

Car rentals between IAH or HOU and Galveston

Currently, only Enterprise offers rental drop-offs in Galveston. With one-way fees and fuel, a midsize car or SUV could cost $200 for an overnight rental. This option gains value if your travel group has plans for exploring a bit pre- or post-cruise. You'll still need transportation from the Enterprise facility to the port, a distance of roughly 3 1/2 miles.

Cruise line airport transfers

You can travel from either Houston airport to the Port of Galveston on embarkation day via transfers prepurchased from the cruise lines. These are usually offered to passengers who buy air through the cruise line, but even those who book independently can call to make the purchase.

Carnival has instructions online for booking transfers from Houston airports, including flight timing restrictions. The cost is currently $58.99 per person from IAH and $41.99 per person from HOU. Return transfers would be similarly priced.

Related: Should I book my flight through my cruise line?

Independent airport shuttles from Houston airports to the cruise port

Local companies operate shuttle services between both Houston airports and Galveston, either to the cruise port or to a Galveston hotel. Galveston Express has shared van rides starting at $40 per person each way.

Independent van/car services

Multiple companies offer private car service from the airports to either the pier or a Galveston hotel. SuperShuttle offers private car service to the port starting at $80 per person. Blacklane offers chauffeured car service, averaging around $200 from either airport to the port, for up to three people and two bags. A larger Mercedes van for up to five passengers will cost around $250.

Hotel shuttles

Roughly half of the hotels located in Galveston offer free shuttles to the cruise pier. Hotels outside of Galveston rarely provide shuttles to the port.

Taxis and ride-hailing services

Getting from a Galveston hotel to the port via ride-hailing service, such as Uber or Lyft , is possible, but not always your best choice. Galveston is a relatively small island and when two or more ships are departing on the same day, extended wait times for pickups at your hotel can cause delays and surge pricing can make the trip more expensive than you anticipated.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are available at both Houston airports. Taxis are metered, with fares averaging $165 from IAH. For ride-hailing services, follow signs and use your apps for directions to pickup points. We checked a prebooked Uber from IAH and were shown a starting fare of $98.

Related: Frequent Uber or Lyft user? These are the best credit cards for you

Public transportation

Galveston does not offer public transportation to the cruise port. The Galveston Island Trolley has bus and rail lines that are ideal for traveling between pre- or post-cruise hotels and on-island attractions, but it stops short of the port.

Port of Galveston parking

Galveston cruise passengers often drive to the port, so parking options abound. These include both official Port of Galveston parking and private lots. For guests not staying in a Galveston hotel, private parking lots are the cheapest option. If your plan includes a hotel stay and your hotel offers a parking package, it is almost guaranteed to be at a lower price than the lots closer to the port. Reservations made well in advance are recommended for all parking options.

On-site parking

Parking for terminals 25 and 28 is a bit spread out. Some lots have shuttle service, others are walking access only. The walk can be as far as two blocks. You can choose from covered and uncovered options, with prices ranging from $22 to $26.

Parking at the newer Royal Caribbean Terminal 10 includes shuttle services for all lots. All parking at Terminal 10 is uncovered. The price per day is $22 to $25.

Private parking facilities

Private parking options near the terminals include indoor and covered parking, all with shuttles. Some service only terminals 25 and 28, while others will also service Terminal 10. If the reservation form doesn't list your cruise ship or sailing date, it means that lot doesn't serve the terminal you need.

Prices are competitive and usually lower than official port parking. For example, Lighthouse Parking beats the terminal's official parking lots, offering covered parking for around $20 per day, with shuttle service to all terminals.

Some, like Galveston Park N Cruise, offer discounts for prepaying. That lot only serves terminals 25 and 28 (Carnival and Princess) and does not provide a shuttle because it's across the street from the terminal. Prepaid rates for indoor parking are as low as $18.50 per day for a seven-night cruise.

Park-and-cruise

If you plan an overnight stay in Galveston, the cheapest parking option is a hotel with a parking package. Many Galveston hotels offer cruise parking to guests who stay either before or after a cruise. Some offer parking free of charge; most charge a fee for leaving your car behind. The best scenario is a hotel with both a parking option and a shuttle to the port.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Hotels near the Galveston cruise port

Hotels are abundant in Galveston, all of them 10 miles or less from the port. Because this is both a small port town and a vacation destination, rates and room availability fluctuate widely. Whether you need a one-night stay as close as possible to the port or are looking for a longer stay to fully explore this charming beach town, here are some of the many choices to consider.

Hilton hotels near the Port of Galveston

For a quick overnight before your cruise, the DoubleTree is a good choice (32,000 to 168,000 Hilton Honors points per night). It has a pool and free Wi-Fi and is across the street from the beach. It also offers parking package options.

For a more resort-style stay, consider the Hilton Galveston Island Resort (32,000 to 338,000 Hilton Honors points per night). It's within walking distance of the beach and offers parking and shuttle packages.

Related: Best Hilton credit cards

Marriott hotels near the Port of Galveston

For an affordable stay with beach access, check out the Courtyard Galveston Island (30,000 to 59,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night). You can dine at its on-site restaurant or venture out — either by foot or via the island's trolley — to sample the island's renowned seafood. Wi-Fi is free for Bonvoy members.

The Grand Galvez, part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, is the city's signature hotel. First opened in 1911 as the Hotel Galvez, it is the only historic beachfront hotel on the entire Texas coast. A stay here (from 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) is a grand way to start a cruise vacation.

For a hotel even closer to the pier and the city's famed downtown strand, the Tremont House is a luxury option from the Tribute Portfolio (from 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night). Its Blum & Co. bistro and wine bar is open all day and well into the evening for those arriving from late flights into Houston. The hotel has park-and-sail packages as well as transportation to the terminal.

Related: Best Marriott credit cards

Hyatt hotels near the Port of Galveston

The nearest Hyatt is the Hyatt Regency Baytown, a Category 3 hotel (from 9,000 World of Hyatt points per night). It's an hour's drive from the port, situated not far from Space Center Houston and the Kemah Boardwalk, if those are on your to-do list pre- or post-cruise.

Related: Why the World of Hyatt card is one of the best credit cards

Non-points hotels near the Port of Galveston

A stay at Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center is a whopper of a family-friendly choice. Besides the aquarium, rainforest and discovery museum on-site, the property boasts a beachy water park and lazy river, and a paddlewheel boat offering dinner cruises. The hotel offers cruise parking and a cruise shuttle for a fee.

Leaving the kids behind? The San Luis Resort, Spa and Conference Center is family-friendly, but its lack of attractions for children (other than a pool) means fewer children will likely be on the property. That makes it ideal for a couples or singles escape. The resort has ocean-view rooms and suites, four restaurants and a luxury spa to kick off (or finish off) your cruise.

Restaurants near Galveston cruise port

The food scene in Galveston includes everything from baskets of fish and chips done Texas style (which means it's probably wrapped in bacon and served with jalapenos) to elegant chop houses and seafood establishments. Choices line Seawall Boulevard and extend to the Strand Historic District and the Pier 21 tourist area.

Seafood is the predominant option, but it's also possible to sample barbecue and Tex-Mex.

Related: The best credit cards for dining

Things to do in and around Galveston before or after your cruise

The beach is the No. 1 reason people visit Galveston. It stretches for 32 miles (more than 10 miles protected by a seawall and promenade) and is dotted with fishing piers, overwater souvenir shops and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park. The best part is that almost anything you need in Galveston is across the street from the beach, including most of the hotels and restaurants.

The bar scene along the seawall has plenty to offer, from rooftop outdoor seating at Pelican and the Shark at the 61st Street Fishing Pier to the famous Poop Deck facing the beach. The Strand has its own concentration of bars, from classy wine bars to genuine dive bars.

Beyond the beach, look for a Texas original water park — Schlitterbahn and Moody Gardens. Kids and adults both can delight in the three Moody Gardens pyramids. One's an aquarium featuring penguins, seals and a coral reef lab. Another is a rainforest, home to over 1,700 exotic plants and endangered animals, including free-roaming sloths and birds that fly between the trees as you walk the trails below the canopy. The third pyramid is a discovery museum with rotating exhibits. Expect animal encounters and hands-on "edutainment" at all three.

Shopping near the Port of Galveston

For last-minute cruise clothes, swing by the Tanger Outlets on I-45, approximately 20 miles north of Galveston in Texas City. As luck would have it, there's a Buc-ees right next door. Besides the clean bathrooms, you'll find Texas souvenirs, out-of-the-ordinary snacks, drinks and even decent barbecue packed into a supersize gas station and roadside palooza.

You won't have trouble finding Galveston's Walmart and Target if you're looking to purchase last-minute snacks, sundries, bottled water, soda or wine to carry on board ( where allowed ).

Hot spots for beachwear, hats, sunglasses and souvenirs specific to Galveston are Dolphin World and the Mermaid Pier.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Golf Cart Costa Maya Reservation (4 or 8-seat) provided by Tours costa maya (bicicletas electricas, scooters Golf cart, snorkel, dia en la playa)