Costa Maya cruise port guide: Tips for your day on land

Mexico boasts many lively cruise ports, many of which you're probably familiar with. Cozumel, for instance, is the top cruise destination in Mexico, but seasoned travelers also recognize popular spots like Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.

Nestled on the southern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, just shy of the Belize border, lies the Costa Maya cruise port. You may not have heard of this Mexican gem, but it ranks as the second-most visited cruise port in Mexico after Cozumel. In 2024, Costa Maya expects to host nearly 600 cruise ships, welcoming lines like Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and more. Don’t worry if Costa Maya is unfamiliar—it’s more of a delightful discovery for cruisers than a well-known destination.

Costa Maya is a magical spot offering cruisers a mix of excitement, relaxation, and cultural experiences, but you'll need to venture beyond the port to uncover its treasures. Located near the southern tip of Quintana Roo, hours away from Tulum, Costa Maya is home to stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, a laid-back fishing village atmosphere, and rich Mayan heritage.

The Costa Maya cruise port is more elaborately developed than many other Mexican ports, as the surrounding area features tranquil beaches, winding roads, small towns, and dense jungles. Designed like a theme park to entertain visitors, the port includes amusement rides, animal interactions, souvenir shops, and beach clubs.

What makes cruising to this remote region of Mexico truly special is the ease of access to attractions and beaches that experience far less visitor traffic than Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun. With a captivating blend of archaeological sites, jungle wildlife, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, along with restaurants, bars, and beach clubs, this coastal area offers a refreshing alternative to Mexico's more crowded cruise destinations.

Whether you're eager to bask in the sun on a pristine beach, soar through the jungle canopy on a zip line, or explore the rich history of the ancient Maya, Costa Maya has the perfect escape waiting for you during your Caribbean cruise in Mexico.

Overview of the Costa Maya cruise port

Three reasons TPG adores Costa Maya

• With sun-kissed beaches and serene turquoise waters, the stretch between the port and nearby Mahahual is among the most beautiful locations in the Mexican Caribbean.
• This lightly populated area comes alive when cruise ships dock, providing travelers with numerous options ranging from accessible beach clubs and eateries to more adventurous excursions like exploring archaeological sites and local beaches.
• The cruise port offers convenient access to attractions that are more challenging to reach in this secluded region of Mexico.

What we could do without

• The nearest beaches are located in the town of Mahahual, which is a 45-minute walk or an $8 taxi ride from the port.
• The port area is designed primarily for cruisers, making it somewhat culturally limited unless you embark on an excursion.
• The walk down the pier to the terminal is lengthy, but there is a shuttle available for passengers to make the journey easier.

Quick facts about the Costa Maya cruise port

Location: Av. P. del Puerto, 77976 Mahahual, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Official Language: Spanish, but English is commonly spoken

Currency: Mexican pesos, although many establishments accept dollars

Must-see attractions at the Costa Maya cruise port

Though typically less frequented, Costa Maya port boasts an impressive range of activities for cruisers. Designed specifically for cruise tourism, most attractions are conveniently located in a compact area right at the end of the pier. For those who wish to stay near the pier and forgo excursions, here are the top things to enjoy at the Costa Maya cruise port.

Enjoy a refreshing swim in the saltwater pool

While the port lacks a beachfront, it features a spacious resort-style pool that serves as the central attraction. Just walk from the ship's docking area at the end of the pier towards the mainland, and you can't miss it. Cruise passengers appreciate the free lounge chairs and swimming amenities, including a swim-up bar.

Discover exotic birds at Aviarius

Like many attractions in the port, Aviarius is a short walk from the pier—just turn left after Cafe Mexico. This engaging nature experience is perfect for those looking to learn about exotic birds. A series of rope bridges lets visitors walk high above the Costa Maya port, providing views of a vibrant collection of tropical birds. Entry is $14 for adults and $12 for children.

Experience the Danza de los Voladores

A must-see attraction at Puerto Costa Maya is the Danza de los Voladores. This traditional spectacle is celebrated throughout Mexico and features the Papantla Flyers performing acrobatics from the top of a tall pole. You can catch this mesmerizing show right in the heart of the cruise port's square, and it's free to enjoy.

Get splashed at Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom

This archaeology-themed water and adventure park is a favorite among families and is part of the larger cruise port complex. At the center stands the Great Pyramid, surrounded by thrilling activities like zip lines, ropes courses, and suspension bridges. Cascading waterfalls wind around the pyramid, including one that plunges an impressive 78 feet. For a more leisurely experience, the Jaguar Lazy River offers a tranquil float through lush jungle scenery. Admission is $120 for adults aged 13 and older, and $115 for children aged 6 to 12.

Stroll through Mahahual

The nearest town to the cruise port is the quaint fishing village of Mahahual. With its sandy stretch lined with relaxed beach bars and eateries, Mahahual is one of Quintana Roo's most laid-back spots. The arrival of the cruise port in the 1990s had mixed effects. When a cruise ship docks, the town comes alive with activity, and visitors feel like they have the place to themselves. However, standing on Mahahual's usually serene beaches and glancing towards the cruise port, the large-scale development can seem somewhat incongruous in this otherwise tranquil setting.

Excursions to explore in Costa Maya

Although the cruise port offers plenty for visitors, Costa Maya also delivers rich opportunities for those interested in history, culture, and nature.

Explore ancient Mayan ruins

The Yucatan Peninsula is filled with breathtaking Mayan ruins and archaeological sites hidden within lush jungles. For those fascinated by Mexico's Indigenous heritage, the Costa Maya cruise port serves as the perfect gateway to three stunning historic sites: Chacchoben, Dzibanche, and Kohunlich. Many of the archaeological excursions also offer cultural experiences, such as enjoying traditional meals prepared in local homes.

Chacchoben's ruins boast a history of over 3,000 years. Its most notable feature is the Gran Basement, the primary ritual plaza. Currently, only a small section of this extensive complex is accessible to the public, with the rest enveloped by rich jungle vegetation.

The Dzibanche archaeological site exemplifies impressive architecture and urban design. The area includes various plazas, palaces, platforms, and tombs. The name Dzibanche translates to "writing on wood," which references a wooden piece inscribed with eight glyphs from the seventh century.

Kohunlich spans 21 acres and is renowned for its exquisitely preserved structures, particularly the Temple of the Masks. This pyramid features a central staircase adorned with intricately carved stucco masks.

Visit Laguna de Bacalar

Once a hidden gem in southern Mexico, Laguna de Bacalar is rapidly emerging as one of the country's top destinations. Known as the Lake of Seven Colors, this stunning freshwater lake captivates with its turquoise hues, eco-friendly accommodations, lakeside eateries, and a charming artistic town also named Bacalar.

Group tours depart from Costa Maya, taking about an hour to reach Bacalar, where visitors can wander through vibrant, art-filled streets or relax at a lake club for lunch and stand-up paddleboarding. The lagoon stands out as one of Mexico's most breathtaking natural attractions, attracting a growing community of laid-back travelers seeking an alternative to the bustling Tulum.

Scuba diving and snorkeling

The waters off Puerto Costa Maya are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world's second-largest barrier reef after the Great Barrier Reef. Scuba divers and snorkelers can discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with color just beneath the waves.

Unwind at a beach club

In any Mexican beach town, you can usually find an excellent beach club, and Costa Maya is no different. There are several vibrant beach day clubs located near the port in the nearby town of Mahahual.

Malecon21 Beach Club boasts a stylish, bohemian vibe with nest-inspired lanterns, bamboo daybeds, and a beachfront bar topped with a palapa. The natural pool formed by the nearby reef and rocks makes it an ideal spot for swimming. Guests can choose from various packages that include sunbeds, Wi-Fi, food, and drinks, ranging from $40 to $120 per person. The Platinum package, the priciest option, offers unlimited drinks, one meal from the menu (including luxurious lobster), a beach bed, and Wi-Fi, plus optional massages priced between $60 and $90.

Chunky Monkey Beach Club focuses less on chic aesthetics and more on vibrant colors and a rustic, island feel. This oceanfront club features a stretch of soft white sand and a shaded restaurant and bar area serving refreshing drinks and freshly caught seafood.

Another popular spot is Pez Quadro, a lively beach hangout offering lounge chairs, food, drinks, massages, and options for fishing trips or snorkeling adventures.

Top Beaches in Costa Maya Near the Cruise Port

Costa Maya is home to some of Mexico's most stunning beaches, celebrated for their soft white sand, vibrant turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees. While Puerto Costa Maya may lack beaches, there are breathtakingly serene spots just a short taxi ride from the pier.

Playa Mahahual

A brief taxi ride from the cruise port will bring you to the bustling Playa Mahahual, the town's most renowned beach. This lively stretch attracts tourists whenever cruise ships dock, offering a variety of restaurants, bars, and beach clubs.

Maya Chan Beach

Located about 4 miles from the cruise port, Maya Chan Beach is a beautiful white sand getaway favored by cruisers. You can arrange a visit to this beach as part of a shore excursion. Upon arrival, you’ll find lounge chairs, a restaurant, and snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life up close.

Xcalak

While not close to the cruise port, Xcalak is a beach destination that rewards those willing to travel a bit. About an hour and 15 minutes south of the cruise port, Xcalak is one of the southernmost points in Quintana Roo before reaching Belize. This charming fishing village boasts soft white sand beaches, excellent fishing and diving opportunities, and a few casual eateries. It also serves as the gateway to Xcalak National Reef Park.

Navigating Costa Maya Independently

Walking: Many attractions in Costa Maya, including beach clubs, shops, restaurants, and the adventure park, are conveniently located within the cruise port. Although the pier from the ship to the shore appears longer than it is, a complimentary shuttle service transports passengers back and forth.

Taxi: Numerous taxis are available at the port to take passengers around the area. The nearest destination is the village of Mahahual, approximately an $8 cab ride away. You can also catch a taxi to other locations like Xcalak, Bacalar, and various archaeological sites, which are more expensive. A taxi to Xcalak costs around $20, while the fare to Bacalar is approximately $30.

Restaurants in Costa Maya near the cruise port

The culinary scene in Costa Maya is heavily influenced by seafood and blends traditional Mexican and Mayan flavors. However, being a popular cruise destination and a beach location favored by international visitors, you can also find a growing variety of international dining options.

Most restaurants are located within the cruise port and in Mahahual. The eateries in the cruise port are within walking distance, but those in Mahahual may need a quick taxi ride. Walking to Mahahual is possible, but it takes about 45 minutes.

Restaurants are predominantly found along the coast, featuring both beach clubs and traditional dining spots. Malecon21 Beach Club's eatery is a perennial favorite due to its lively atmosphere and seafood offerings. La Chilangaloense Beach Club is also highly praised for its culinary delights and ambiance.

The beachfront in Mahahual is lined with delightful seafood restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and vibrant bars—most providing stunning ocean views.

Must-try dishes in Costa Maya

The term "Mexican food" encompasses a wide range of flavors. In the Costa Maya area, seafood takes center stage, featuring dishes like ceviche, lobster, grilled whole fish, and shrimp. You'll also find beloved Mexican staples such as guacamole, quesadillas, and tacos. Additionally, thanks to a significant Italian community, excellent Italian cuisine is readily available here.

Shopping at the Costa Maya cruise port

As Puerto Costa Maya was designed with cruise travelers in mind, authentic shopping options outside the cruise terminal are quite limited. While Mahahual offers various beach souvenirs, choices for locally crafted artisanal goods are scarce.

When shopping in the port, keep an eye out for traditional Mexican treats like chocolate, vanilla, local spices, and hot sauces, as well as woven hammocks and crafts inspired by Mayan culture.

Cost-free activities at Costa Maya cruise port

• Stroll along El Malecon in Mahahual for people-watching and browsing.
• Although you'll need to pay for a taxi (approximately $8) or embark on a 45-minute walk, the beaches of Mahahual are open to the public and free to enjoy.

Conclusion

Costa Maya stands out as one of Mexico's more distinctive cruise port destinations due to its remoteness from popular tourist spots. This region sees significantly fewer visitors unless they are on a cruise, and it's noteworthy that the area remains remarkably tranquil when ships are absent. Travelers who overlook this part of Mexico miss out on pristine beaches, rich Mayan heritage, and vibrant towns. If you get the chance to explore this region, it's an opportunity you shouldn't miss.