Allie Hubers Costa Maya, Mexico, is a popular stop on Western Caribbean cruise itineraries, offering a mix of beaches, local culture, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Unlike some cruise ports where an excursion is necessary to enjoy the destination, Costa Maya has plenty of things to do independently.
Cruise passengers have mixed feelings about Costa Maya. Some find the port too commercialized, with shops and restaurants designed mainly for tourists. Others love Costa Maya, especially if they venture beyond the immediate area.
If you stick to the Costa Maya cruise port, you might feel like you’re in a theme park version of Mexico, but if you take the time to explore, whether by visiting the nearby beaches or heading to the Mayan ruins, you’ll likely have a much richer experience.
Like any cruise stop, how much you enjoy Costa Maya really comes down to what you’re looking for and how far you’re willing to go to find it.
If you’re wondering whether you need to book an excursion, what’s within walking distance, and how much things cost, this guide has you covered.
Where do cruise ships dock in Costa Maya?
Cruise ships dock at the Costa Maya cruise port, a built-for-cruisers terminal with restaurants, bars, a pool, and souvenir shops.
You can walk directly off the ship into the port area, which is gated and designed to feel like a small Mexican village. Everything in the Costa Maya cruise port is just a few minutes walk from your ship.
Should you book an excursion in Costa Maya?
The Costa Maya cruise port was specifically built to cater to tourists. The port area can accommodate four cruise ships at a time, meaning the port area can get crowded quickly.
There is plenty of shopping, dining, and even a few activities to do in the port area, such as swimming in the pool or experiencing a dolphin encounter.
If you’re looking for authenticity, you’ll need to leave the port area and venture away. For those looking for a low-cost day, taking a taxi to Mahahual and spending time on the beach is the best option. If you want a more comfortable experience with included food and drinks, a beach club day pass may be worth it.
Book an excursion – If you want to visit the Mayan ruins or snorkel, it’s best to book an excursion. These destinations are too far to reach without a tour.
Don’t book an excursion – If you just want to stay in the port area, you don’t need to book any excursions or tours. The port has shops, restaurants, and a pool, though prices are higher than in town. The beaches are easy to reach, including quick and cheap taxis to Mahahual. The beach clubs are located here too, not far from the port.
Top excursions and activities in Costa Maya, Mexico
Explore Mayan Ruins
Costa Maya is in proximity to several significant Mayan archaeological sites. You will need to book a tour or excursion to visit these destinations, as the ruins are a one to two-hour drive from the port area.
- Chacchoben Ruins – Located about an hour from the port, this site features ancient temples and pyramids amidst lush jungle settings.
- Kohunlich Ruins – Approximately two hours away, Kohunlich is renowned for its Temple of the Masks and expansive plazas.
Visit Mahahual
Mahahual is a small beach town about 10 minutes from the port by taxi. This is where you’ll find the best free beaches near Costa Maya. Food and drinks here are cheaper than inside the port. There are many different local restaurants and bars to try!
It’s a quick drive and a great option for those wanting to spend time at the beach without venturing too far.
Cost estimate: A taxi is $4–$5 per person each way and beach chair rentals are around $10. Food and drinks may be purchased as well.
Get a beach club day pass
Several beach clubs in Mahahual offer day passes that include food, drinks, and a reserved lounger. If you plan to eat and drink throughout the day, an all-inclusive beach pass can be a good value. Otherwise, visiting Mahahual on your own can be more affordable.
Most cruise passengers book one of these beach clubs, which you can reserve online at Resort for a Day. All-inclusive packages are usually $30–$80 per person.
Top beach clubs in Mahahual:
- Maya Chan Beach Resort – A top choice for many cruisers! Includes food, drinks, and a private cabana.
- Jaime’s at the Blue Reef – Offers a more personalized experience.
- Yaya Beach – Includes a beach lounger and a small credit for food and drinks.
Adventure activities
For thrill-seekers, Costa Maya offers:
- Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom – A water and adventure park. Visible from the cruise ships, this water park is ideal for families. It features towering water slides, lazy rivers, and challenging obstacle courses, providing a fun-filled day for all ages.
- Snorkeling and scuba diving – Explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest, teeming with marine life.
- Dolphin Discovery – Located minutes from the cruise port, Dolphin Discovery offers visitors the chance to swim with dolphins. Both dolphin swims and encounters are available, with photos offered for purchase.
Walk the Mahahual Malecón
The Mahahual Malecón is a long beachfront walkway with restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can rent bikes, grab a coffee, or enjoy views of the ocean. This is a good way to explore the local area without spending money on an organized tour.
Cost estimate: Free to walk around, but taxis to Mahahual are $4-$5 each way.
Try local Mexican food
Many visitors skip the restaurants inside the port in favor of more authentic Mexican food in Mahahual. Eating in Mahahual is one of the best ways to experience Costa Maya without an excursion.
Best local spots in Mahahual:
- El Fuerte – Known for its fresh ceviche.
- Fernando’s 100% Agave – A casual spot with good margaritas.
- Nohoch Kay – A mix of seafood and traditional Mexican dishes.
Visit Bacalar – Seven Color Lagoon
Some cruisers take a small group tour from the Costa Maya cruise terminal to Bacalar Lagoon, often referred to as the “Seven Colors Lagoon.”
This stunning lagoon is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and serene environment. A visit to Bacalar is a great option if you don’t mind the long drive and want a relaxing day in crystal-clear waters.
Cost estimate: Guided tours are $89–$139 per person (includes transportation, boat tour, and sometimes meals).
What to expect at the Costa Maya cruise port
Upon disembarking, you’ll enter a well-developed port complex designed to cater to cruise passengers. The area features a variety of amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.
A standout feature is the large saltwater pool with a swim-up bar, providing a resort-like atmosphere right at the port.
Some of the amenities at the Costa Maya cruise port include:
- A saltwater pool with swim-up bars
- Restaurants serving Mexican food and fresh seafood
- Souvenir shops and duty-free stores
- Opportunity to swim with dolphins and admire flamingos
Other Costa Maya tips to know:
- Transportation – Taxis are typically $4–$5 per person each way to nearby beaches and towns.
- Currency – Prices are often listed in U.S. dollars, though pesos are accepted.
- Language – Spanish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Common complaints about Costa Maya, Mexico
I’ll be honest, Costa Maya isn’t my favorite cruise port. The entire port area feels inauthentic, overpriced, and touristy.
In general, opinions about Costa Maya vary. Some passengers appreciate the port’s amenities and nearby attractions without needing to venture far, while others feel it lacks authenticity and is overly commercialized.
Touristy atmosphere
A recurring sentiment is that Costa Maya’s port area feels manufactured for tourists, lacking genuine cultural experiences. The port area is considered a tourist trap by many, with its mix of shops, restaurants, and pools designed specifically for visitors.
Overpriced goods and services
Prices within the port are inflated compared to local standards. It’s very touristy, and the local shops are certainly charging more than they should be, so make sure you bargain.
Limited cultural significance without excursions
Some passengers feel that without participating in excursions, the port offers little in terms of authentic experiences. If you want a cultural experience, you will probably need to leave the port area or book an excursion.
However, some do have positive excursion experiences
Despite criticisms of the port area, many travelers report positive experiences when venturing beyond it. Many cruisers recommend the excursion to Chacchoben Mayan ruins for a more authentic experience.
What do you think about the Costa Maya cruise port? Let us know in the comments!
