The 12 Best Activities in Costa Maya

Immerse yourself in ancient history, swim alongside vibrant marine life, and walk along pristine sandy beaches during your cruise to Costa Maya. This charming Mexican city greets you with a laid-back atmosphere, authentic flavors, vibrant colors, and a plethora of adventures that are sure to invigorate your spirit.

In fact, if there were a perfect formula for a cruise vacation of a lifetime, this region would have all the essential elements. Here’s what you can experience in the stunning city of Costa Maya.

Dive into the Ocean

1. Scuba Diving

Whether you’re a novice or an expert, Costa Maya boasts some of the world’s finest scuba diving spots, allowing you to encounter turtles, barracudas, and vibrant tropical fish up close. If you’re diving for the first time, there’s no need for concern—guides are available to provide an introductory lesson before your underwater adventure. If you hold a valid C-Card, get ready to hop on a custom dive boat and explore the Meso-American Barrier Reef—the largest in the Northern Hemisphere.

2. Snorkeling

If you’re cruising with teens, they’ll enjoy snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters of the coral reefs, where they can spot intriguing sea creatures. To elevate the excitement, experienced swimmers can try power snorkeling using a Sea Doo Scooter, allowing them to glide across the surface faster than swimming or dive down effortlessly for a closer look at the underwater wonders.

3. Sailing

Imagine inhaling the fresh, salty air while you navigate the Caribbean Sea on a catamaran. You can snorkel directly from the boat to encounter Angelfish and Queen Triggerfish residing among the reefs. Plus, enjoy lively music, refreshing drinks, and fantastic photo opportunities of the stunning coastal scenery.

4. Swimming with Dolphins

Swimming with dolphins is a dream activity for many visitors on a Mexico cruise, and you can fulfill this wish in Costa Maya. Not only will you witness these playful creatures jumping, twisting, and gliding through the water, but you’ll also receive a dolphin kiss and have the chance to touch their smooth, rubbery skin.

Jump into Adventure Activities

5. Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom

Featuring exhilarating water slides, zip line courses, a challenging rope course, and the thrilling Kukulcan Zip Coaster, the renowned adventure park Maya – Lost Mayan Kingdom is a paradise for adventurers of all ages. This park offers a little something for everyone, from a peaceful river expedition to miniature slides for kids on Monkey’s Island and an adrenaline-pumping 78-foot Demon water slide for those seeking excitement.

6. ATV Drives

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the jungle on off-road trails with a single driver, All-Terrain vehicle. After a quick lesson from experienced guides on how to handle your ATV, you’ll set off to explore hidden paths that many tourists miss. For those eager to test their driving skills, you’ll also have the opportunity to navigate rocky forest routes.

7. Segway Rides

Segways provide a fun and unique way to explore the attractions of Costa Maya. If you’ve never ridden one before, don’t worry! They’re very easy to use, and you’ll receive personalized instructions before you hit the road. Anticipate gliding along the beach with breathtaking ocean views and cruising into town for shopping in Costa Maya.

8. Biking and Kayaking

Biking and kayaking rank among the top activities to enjoy in Costa Maya. Cycling lets you meander through local fishing villages, providing a cultural experience while taking in the stunning coastal scenery. Once on the water, you can paddle through reefs filled with vibrant corals and fish in a clear-bottom kayak, gliding alongside picturesque palm-fringed beaches.

9. Fly Fishing

If you’re passionate about fly fishing and hope to reel in Tarpon, Snapper, Bonefish, and Permit, the secluded channels of Costa Maya are the perfect spot for action. A fly fishing excursion includes the expertise of a professional guide, giving you the best opportunity for success, all on a catch-and-release basis.

Uncover Ancient Civilizations

10. Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Nestled in a secluded jungle teeming with deer and monkeys, Chacchoben boasts an array of enigmatic temples, vibrant gardens, and a captivating history. Many of the ruins remain largely unspoiled, offering a genuine glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. With a knowledgeable guide to unveil the secrets of this remarkable past, you’ll traverse sacred ceremonial grounds and explore temples situated on Gran Basamento, regarded as the ceremonial heart of Chacchoben.

11. Kohunlich Mayan Ruins

Kohunlich is an exceptionally preserved Mayan archaeological site that dates back to 200 B.C., featuring intricate palaces, temples, ball courts, and residential complexes. During a tour of Kohunlich, you'll wander through beautifully maintained gardens to uncover landmarks like the Temple of the Large Masks. These masks, representing Mayan Kings or the Sun God, can reach heights of up to 8 feet and all face the setting sun.

12. Bacalar Town

An excursion to Bacalar reveals thrilling tales of the real pirates of the Caribbean. The Bacalar Fortress, constructed to defend against pirate attacks, offers stunning views over the shimmering waters, and you can still spot formidable cannons positioned along its walls. Nearby lies the Seven Colors Lagoon, showcasing breathtaking shades of blue. Here, you can embark on a boat trip to Isla de Los Pájaros, a haven for bird watchers, and navigate the Canal de Piratas, just as the pirates once did.

With its remote ancient sites for history enthusiasts, unspoiled sandy beaches for sun seekers, and exhilarating adventures both on and off the stunning waters, Costa Maya is an essential cruise destination that offers everything for an unforgettable getaway.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may differ by ship and destination.