Costa Maya Cruise Port - Best Beaches, Excursions, and More
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Costa Maya, Mexico Cruise Port tips. How to get around, safety, must-visit attractions, shore excursions, and local cuisine to try. Here's your ultimate guide!
Costa Maya, Mexico Cruise Port Guide: (Jump To)
How to Get to the City Center from the Costa Maya, Mexico Port
The Costa Maya port is designed as a self-contained tourist destination, with shops, restaurants, pools, and entertainment right at the pier. However, if you’d like to explore beyond, (and you should) taxis and shuttles are readily available. A short ride of about five minutes will take you to Mahahual, the nearest town and beach hub. Rates are typically $3-$4 per person. Alternatively, some travelers opt to rent bicycles or golf carts, available at the port. These rentals are convenient for short-distance adventures. We opted to walk to town which took about 45 minutes.
Is Costa Maya Safe?
Costa Maya is generally considered a safe port of call. The port area itself is secure, as it is a private and gated area designed for tourists. Mahahual is similarly safe for visitors, with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals. That said, as with any travel destination, exercise basic precautions. Avoid displaying valuables, keep an eye on personal belongings, and use reputable transportation. If you venture beyond tourist areas, stick to well-trodden paths and heed local advice.
How to Get Around Costa Maya, Mexico
Mahahual, the main area for visitors, is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. For those looking to venture further or avoid walking in the heat, bicycles, golf carts, and taxis are popular options. Public transportation is limited in this small region, but guided tours and shuttles are available for trips to more distant attractions, such as the Chacchoben Ruins or the Seven Colors Lagoon in Bacalar.
What to See in Costa Maya, Mexico
There are many great activities to do on your own from the Costa Maya Cruise port. From ancient ruins to relaxing beach breaks you can find a perfect day off the ship in Costa Maya.
Costa Maya Port Complex
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free entry
The port area is a bustling hub featuring pools, swim-up bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, and live performances, including Mayan cultural shows. It’s perfect for those who prefer to stay close to the ship.
Mahahual Beach
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Free access, rentals vary
The town's main beach is known for its calm waters and beach clubs offering chairs, umbrellas, and food service. It's a great spot for relaxing by the sea.
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: About USD $4 for entry
Located about 50 minutes from the port, these ancient ruins are among the best-preserved Mayan sites in the area, offering a glimpse into Mexico's rich history. Many popular port excursions include these ruins, or you can arrange round-trip transportation with a local taxi driver.
Seven Colors Lagoon (Bacalar)
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Free
A natural wonder, this freshwater lagoon is renowned for its vivid hues of blue. Popular activities include kayaking and boat tours. The drive to the lagoon from the cruise port will take just over an hour. It’s best to book a local tour to visit the lagoon, though you could hire a taxi for the day if you decide to go on your own.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Guided tours from $70
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this reserve showcases diverse ecosystems, from mangroves to coral reefs, ideal for eco-tourism enthusiasts. This unique tour may only be available to overnight visitors or those with a long day in port.
Dolphin Discovery Costa Maya
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Experiences start at $79
An interactive dolphin encounter in a controlled, family-friendly environment. The experience is located inside the Costa Maya Port Complex just steps off your cruise ship. The encounter has glowing reviews online. We do have some concerns about the size of the animal enclosures.
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Best Cruise Ship Shore Excursions at the Port of Costa Maya, Mexico
Local Fishing Tours
Join a guided tour to experience fishing in the Caribbean’s rich waters.
Snorkeling in the Mesoamerican Reef
Explore the world’s second-largest coral reef, teeming with vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters. Accessible from Mahahual, guided tours include gear and transportation.
Relaxation at a Beach Club
Spend the day at this all-inclusive beachfront retreat featuring private cabanas, loungers, and hammocks. Enjoy a delicious buffet, open bar, and serene views. There are plenty of great local options for a beach experience. See below for more about beach clubs.
Kayaking in the Seven Colors Lagoon
Paddle across Bacalar’s stunning freshwater lagoon, known for its striking shades of blue. Excursions include transportation, equipment, and time to swim or relax.
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Guided Tour
Journey to this historic site to explore ancient Mayan temples and plazas hidden in the jungle. Guides share fascinating insights about Mayan culture and history.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in other Mexican Cruise Ports!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Beach Clubs in Costa Maya
Costa Maya offers excellent beach clubs with options tailored for cruise visitors, including convenient day passes. Here's a guide to the best beach clubs and their day pass details:
Maya Chan Beach
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Maya Chan Beach is a top choice for its all-inclusive experience. The day pass includes private cabanas, kayaks, paddleboards, unlimited drinks, and a buffet featuring fresh Mexican cuisine. It’s $79 per adult, $59 per child (8-17), $49 per child (4-7), and $19 for babies (0-3). Reservations are required, as space is limited to ensure exclusivity and comfort. Note that same-day and walk-up reservations will not be accommodated.
Nohoch Kay Beach Club
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Located in central Mahahual, Nohoch Kay offers a customizable experience. Cruise customers can purchase a day pass for USD $88, which includes reserved loungers, an umbrella, and food and drinks credit. Walk-ins are accepted, but booking ahead is recommended during busy cruise days.
YaYa Beach Club
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This lively beach club on the Mahahual boardwalk offers a variety of day passes starting at USD $25 per person. The passes have options to include access to beach chairs, umbrellas, unlimited food, drinks, and even a three-course meal. Conveniently located, it’s perfect for cruise guests who want to explore the town alongside their beach day.
40 Cañones Beach Club
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Part of the boutique Hotel 40 Cañones, this upscale beach club offers a $50 day pass for cruise visitors. The pass includes premium loungers, shaded areas, and a food and drink credit. The refined setting and exceptional service make it an ideal choice for a more luxurious beach experience.
Pitaya Beach Club
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Pitaya Beach Club offers customizable day passes starting at $30. Options include access to loungers and umbrellas, unlimited drinks and snacks, kayak rentals, and VIP experiences. It’s a great pick for those seeking a lively, social vibe during their beach day.
Almaplena Eco Beach Resort
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free! Adults: $0; Kids (00): $0
Located about 30 minutes south of Mahahual, Almaplena is a secluded eco-friendly retreat. Their $84 day pass includes beach loungers, shaded areas, kayaks, and a fresh lunch with drinks. They also arrange transportation from the cruise port for an additional fee. They limit daily guests to just 25 visitors. This is a perfect relaxing beach club away from the crowds.
Costa Maya, Mexico Cruise Port Map
A detailed map of the Costa Maya port area and Mahahual can help you navigate easily. Use Google Maps for an interactive version, which includes attractions, restaurants, and transportation hubs. Alternatively, this PDF guide from Programa Destinos México has numerous useful maps.
Best Things to Do in Port of Costa Maya, Mexico
Costa Maya Port Complex
Mahahual Beach
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
Seven Colors Lagoon (Bacalar)
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Dolphin Discovery Costa Maya
