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Costa Maya, like many areas in this area, is rich in Mayan History. While you are in port, you might consider exploring these ancient ruins and learning more about their culture. Costa Maya has the distinction of being the only state in Mexico towards the east of the Caribbean coastline. The cruise port is also adjacent to the Chetumal, which is situated on the Belize border. Shopping is one of the best things to do in Costa Maya cruise port, especially if you love gorgeous, vibrantly hued, authentically Mexican bargains! But the best part is that most of the following items are sold in inexpensive stalls dotted throughout Costa Maya.
Enjoy Swimming With Dolphins
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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. 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. When venturing outside of the cruise terminal area, the locals may be less proficient in English, but overall communicating should’t be a problem.
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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. There is also an anti-sargassum barrier to help reduce the amount of seaweed in the shallow waters beside the seashore. Spanish is the official language of Mexico and the primary language spoken in Costa Maya. However, most locals working in bars, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops also speak English. This day trip includes a guided tour and may also include a visit to the nearby Seven Color Lagoon.
Costa Maya Cruise Review
I have been cruising since 2004 and have sailed on dozens of cruises all over the world. As the creator of this website, I want to help families plan fun cruises free of stress and filled with adventure! Common modes of transport between Costa Maya and Cozumel include air taxis, busses, shuttles, and ferries; however, it all depends on your budget.
Costa Maya shore excursions and tours
Knowing a few words or phrases in Spanish, including please and thank you, is always helpful. If you prefer to use the local currency, you can withdraw Pesos at ATMs, which are located within the Costa Maya cruise terminal. There are free trolleys available for cruise passengers who have have difficulty walking or would like the service. In 2023, Quintana Roo State received 1618 cruise ship calls (of which 462 were in Mahahual/Costa Maya) bringing in 2+ million cruise tourists.
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With a catamaran tour, you will get to relax in the sun for a few hours and enjoy all that Costa Maya has to offer. Enjoy amazing views of the coastline, delicious food, and drinks, plus swimming and snorkeling stops along the way. Snorkel equipment is available for rent from local vendors, or visitors can take part in snorkeling tours with experienced guides who will show them the best spots in Costa Maya’s waters. 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.
Maya Chan Beach
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. 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.
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. 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. 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.
Visit Mahahual Malecon (Downtown)
At a 90 degree angle to this pier is what used to be the primary docking pier. If you’re looking for an easy and fun way to spend the day in the Caribbean port, this is a good option. 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.
And while you can’t bring beers back on the ship, you can get one to enjoy in port for just a buck or two. The Nearby Waterpark Is ClosedFrom the ship you’ll be able to look inland and see a recreated Mayan temple standing high above the trees. This was the main tower for the Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom waterpark. It was just a short distance from the port and a great option for families with water features, ziplines, and more.
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. Our day driving around Costa Maya was not just an adventure—it was one of spontaneity, making every moment unforgettable. In this article, we’ll share our personal experiences and tips to help you navigate and enjoy Costa Maya. I'm also a travel advisor with extensive training and certifications in cruise vacations and Disney properties. When I'm not under a palm tree in the Caribbean, I can usually be found hiking the National Parks!
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). Taxis, shuttles and golf carts are available to take you to areas outside of the cruise terminal, including the Mahahual Village. 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. Sometimes, though, you will have to cover the cost of the return on your own, especially if you are going to book through an independent party.
For culture buffs, Mayan ruins from this ancient civilization are relatively close. Mahahual is just 3 km/2 mi away and the berthed in Costa Maya cruise liners are easily seen from there. 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).
You can book the shore excursions through your cruise line or with a local tour operator outside the terminal building. All the rides are based around the Great Pyramid, which looks like an ancient Mayan Temple. However, you can usually order transportation with your cruise line or get a taxi from outside the terminal. You can enjoy various activities at Playa Mahahual Beach, like swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking. So, booking a day pass at a private beach club is the best choice if you are looking for peace and calm on a Costa Maya beach.
