The Costa Maya Cruise Port offers an abundance of fun and exciting activities for a day in port. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural attractions, dolphin encounters, and the remarkable Chacchoben Mayan ruins, there’s something to captivate every visitor. But the question remains: how can you maximize your limited time in Costa Maya?
The Costa Maya Cruise Port combines adventure and relaxation on the Caribbean coast. The cruise port features pristine beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The area also has colorful lagoons and diverse flora and fauna, making you feel like you’re in a tropical Mexican paradise.
Are you looking for the top shore excursions and activities when your cruise ship berths in Costa Maya? My guide has top recommendations and tips to help you maximize your time in port. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or shop for souvenirs, this article has you covered.
So please read on to learn how to plan your time in the beautiful port city of Costa Maya.
Overview of Costa Maya Cruise Port (Puerto Costa Maya)
Nestled in Quintana Roo on Mexico’s Eastern coast, Costa Maya is the perfect relaxation spot for cruise passengers. The resort has beautiful white-sand beaches, swimming pools, an aviary, and a marine park with dolphins. For culture buffs, Mayan ruins from this ancient civilization are relatively close. There are also snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities.
One of the charms of Costa Maya is its relatively undeveloped landscape. Unlike more commercialized destinations, there are no towering high-rises here. The heart of this tranquility is Mahahual, a small village enveloped by lush jungle. This fishing village, known for its laid-back vibe and picturesque beaches, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist areas. Designed for cruise visitors, Costa Maya’s port is a gateway to exploring natural beauty and Mayan ruins, ensuring a memorable experience.
Where is the Costa Maya Cruise Port?
Costa Maya is a popular cruise port in Quintana Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula and the coast of the Caribbean Sea. The Caribbean cruise port is located 4 miles (6.4 km) or a 10-minute drive from the quaint fishing town of Mahahual, which has just under 1,000 inhabitants. It’s one of the busiest cruise ports in the area.
Map of Costa Maya
Arriving at Costa Maya Cruise Port
Costa Maya cruise terminal features a T-shaped pier that can accommodate up to four cruise ships simultaneously. The walk from the pier to the terminal building is lengthy. However, there is a complimentary trolley service available for those who prefer not to walk. Unfortunately, many passengers report experiencing delays in catching the trolley, especially when three or more ships are docked at the port.
You cannot miss the spectacular cruise terminal building with its stunning Mayan replica door at the pier’s end. Inside the terminal, you’ll find ATMs, information kiosks, a shuttle bus to Mahahual, golf carts, and taxis. There is also the Tour Dispatch area and opportunities to book last-minute shore excursions.
Transport Around Costa Maya
Outside the cruise terminal are various transport options. If you want to spend the day at the beach in Mahahual, you can take a taxi, golf cart, or shuttle bus. The large car park at the terminal building also has buses for shore excursions.
Although you can hire a car, it’s not worth it as taxis are cheap, and booking a shore excursion is the best way to get to the Mayan ruins.
Most cruise passengers find walking the easiest way to get around the cruise port area. However, it’s best to use another form of transport to explore the surrounding area.
Golf carts
Golf carts in Costa Maya are one of the most fun and unique ways to explore the local village. You can hire the carts for $60 to $75 for the day. This transport mode offers a quick journey to Mahahual, allowing you to explore its shops, beautiful scenery, and vibrant atmosphere. You can also rent the carts per hour.
It is best to book in advance to guarantee a cart’s rental. However, if you take the shuttle bus or taxi to Mahahual, you will find plenty of places to rent a golf cart.
Taxi
Several local taxi operators provide quick and cheap travel to Mahahual. Taxis from the cruise terminal offer set fares to the village costing $4. Prices are per person and are the same price as the shuttle bus. There are also plenty of taxis in Mahahual. All you must do is flag one down to get back to the cruise ship.
Agreeing on the taxi fare with the driver beforehand is always advisable.
Buses
The shuttle bus from outside the terminal building is a popular way to get to Mahahual Village and spend a port day near the terminal. The bus costs $4 per person each way.
Electric bikes
Electric bikes are another popular mode of transportation in Costa Maya. They provide a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the area without walking long distances or having the hassle of renting a golf cart. You can rent bikes from various vendors in the cruise port area and Mahahual village.
You’ll find a convenient pickup and drop-off point near the cruise port. The cost is usually $20 to $25 for the entire day. It’s best to book the bike beforehand to get the most out of the day. This way, you are guaranteed a bike, giving you the freedom to ride along the promenade (Malecon), visit shops, and relax on the beach.
Excursion transportation
Arranging a shore excursion is necessary to explore Mayan ruins, ancient civilizations, beach resorts, or the spectacular Seven Color Lagoon. You can either book in advance or find a last-minute excursion with one of the on-site tour operators.
Uncover Costa Maya’s best-kept beach secrets just minutes from port. Don’t miss out on the Top Beaches perfect for an unforgettable day in paradise.
Shopping, Eating, and Drinking at Costa Maya Cruise Port
There’s plenty to do at Costa Maya Cruise Port without venturing too far. The custom-built port area has free swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and a dolphin marine center. You can also treat yourself to a Shamanic massage or admire the flamingos.
Let’s look in more detail at fun ways to spend your cruise day at the cruise terminal.
Shopping facilities at Costa Maya Cruise Port
Costa Maya Cruise Port has a diverse range of shopping options. Some of the first shops you come across are craft markets selling souvenirs. Opposite these are the typical duty-free shops common in all Caribbean cruise ports. In Port Costa Maya, you may find the best deals on tequila and cigars from any of the Caribbean ports.
The port in Costa May also has the standard stores you have probably encountered in other ports. These include the following:
- Del Sol
- Diamonds International
- Crown of Light
- Colleens Magnetic Jewelry
- Tanzanite International
- Casa Rosa
ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.
Restaurants at Costa Maya Cruise Port
After disembarking from the cruise ship, you’ll find various dining options—from Mexican snacks and cuisine, to grilled food and international fare. Here are some of the top choices to sample delicious Mexican food in Costa Maya port:
Cantina Latina: Enjoy typical Mexican food like ceviche, tacos, nachos, and fish. They also serve international options. There is also a swim-up bar in the pool.
El Mero Mero: This popular restaurant at the cruise port is known for its tasty Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Try traditional Mexican food, including tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and fresh seafood options.
La Tortillería: During your day in port, check out La Tortillería for a traditional dining experience. They specialize in freshly made tortillas with authentic Mexican spices, salsa, and local ingredients.
El Faro Restaurant: Located in the heart of the Costa Maya cruise port, El Faro is one of the best restaurants for its delicious grilled food, including lobster on the menu, and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
El Faro is also the name of the iconic lighthouse between the cruise port and Mahahual.
Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill: Although situated in Mahahual, this seafront restaurant is worth mentioning. It serves a fusion of American and Mexican cuisine, with dishes like burgers, tacos, and seafood. Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill is popular with locals and visitors alike. It always receives excellent reviews from its guests.
Bars at Costa Maya Cruise Port
Costa Maya Cruise Port is home to many bars serving Caribbean cocktails. You can choose from a selection of beach bars or swim-up bars if you want to relax in the large saltwater swimming pool.
Here are five of the most popular bars in the cruise port:
Expedition Bar: This is a popular spot for unwinding during your day in port. The bar features a laid-back atmosphere with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the tropical vibes.
Bar De Arbol: Known as Tree Bar, this popular place is ideal for relaxing with a tropical drink. Choose from delicious Margaritas, Pinas Coladas, Daiquiris cocktails, and a range of soft drinks. It’s located near the Aviary in the cruise port.
La Fruteria de la Villa: The La Fruteria bar in Puerto Costa Maya offers some of the most delicious cocktails. While soaking up the sun and looking at the Caribbean, you can enjoy cocktails made from fresh fruits, coconut, and natural ingredients.
El Chaman: If you want to try “Mayan” cocktails made from traditional mezcal, El Chaman is the place to go. You can also choose from various beverages, such as margaritas, mojitos, and local Mexican beers.
Mojito Bar: One of the most popular spots with cruise passengers at the Costa Maya Cruise Port is the Mojito Bar. This lively, colorful bar serves delicious cocktails with a tropical twist. Located right on the waterfront, this bar offers stunning views of the Caribbean’s crystal-clear waters and is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Mayan ruins.
Fun Activities at Costa Maya Cruise Port
If you decide to spend the day at the Costa Maya Cruise Port, there is plenty to do. What’s on offer near the cruise terminal? Please read on to find out.
Swimming pool
Costa Maya Cruise Port has a massive swimming pool. This free saltwater swimming pool is bordered by pool bars, loungers, and attractive palapa thatched shades. It’s easy to enjoy the entire day in the pool area without spending much money.
Port Pass
If you decide to spend the day at Costa Maya Cruise Port, buying a port pass is a good idea. Although the resort has a free swimming pool, the port has interesting paid-for attractions—La Consentida, Kakaw, and Aviaruis.
La Consentida Tequila Museum: Learn about the history and production of Mexico’s most famous spirit, tequila. You’ll find out about the distillation and aging process that turns agave plants into this celebrated spirit. As a word of advice—don’t buy tequila with a worm. That’s a marketing stunt for tourists.
Kakaw Chocolate Factory: The port pass also gives you access to the Kakaw Chocolate Factory, ideal if you have a sweet tooth. This unique attraction allows you to learn about the history and production of chocolate in Mexico.
Aviarius Tropical Bird Aviary: A great way to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy cruise port is to visit the Aviarius—the tropical bird aviary. You can view and get up close to a diverse array of colorful tropical birds. Learn more about parrots, macaws, toucans, flamingos, parakeets, and lovebirds.
Mayan Wellness Retreat Costa Maya
You don’t have to leave the port area to experience Mayan culture. The retreat offers a one-of-a-kind holistic experience that aims to restore and revitalize your positive energies. The six-step cleansing rituals are performed by a Shaman and include the following:
- Copal Cleansing
- Herbal Bath
- The Temazcal purifying ceremony
- Organic Clay Mask Ritual
- Coconut Bath
- Hammock massage
Dolphin Discovery
The Costa Maya cruise port includes Dolphin Discovery—a marine park where you can get up close to dolphins without leaving the port. You can interact with the friendly creatures—they will swim backward as you hold their fins, kiss you, and hug you.
Besides swimming with marine mammals, the attraction features shows that entertain visitors with dolphin acrobatics and aerial performances. Most visitors who interact with the dolphins say it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, never to be missed.
Watch the Dance of the Flyers
While spending time in the port, check out the spectacular performance of the Papantla Flyers. Known locally as Danza de los Voladores, this traditional and artistic flying performance will amaze you. During the performance, the flyers climb up a high pole, tie themselves to ropes, and spin while gradually spiraling toward the ground.
Seeing them gracefully gliding through the air while performing acrobatic moves is mesmerizing. This incredible display of skill and agility takes place in the central square of the port and is a must-see attraction for all visitors.
Best Costa Maya Beaches Near the Cruise Port
You can venture out of the cruise port to enjoy your day at one of the many beach clubs near Costa Maya. Most beach clubs allow you to book a day pass before your trip. This reduces stress when you arrive on the Yucatan Peninsula. Just check if they have a “no port, no fee” policy if the cruise schedule changes.
Dreaming of the perfect beach day in Costa Maya? Don’t settle! Check out the Top Beaches Close to Port for the ultimate sun-soaked escape.
Hayhu Beach Club
Hayhu Beach is a high-end beach club offering a tranquil oasis away from the hundreds of cruise tourists at the port. The exclusive club is located 18 miles (29 km) south of Costa Maya and takes 30 minutes by car. However, a cruise day pass includes round-trip transportation from the Costa Maya Port.
Depending on the package, facilities at the quiet, peaceful beach club include the following:
- Access to lounge and restaurant area
- Private shaded deck and dining area (VIP Package)
- Full bathroom and shower
- Free use of paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel equipment
- Kiteboarding (extra charge)
- Massage (extra charge)
Pez Quadro Beach
Pez Quadro Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located in Mahahual that is an excellent place to spend a peaceful beach day. It’s a one-mile stretch of sandy beach with shaded beach chairs, restaurant services, and beach massages. Day passes at the Pez Quadro Beach Club can include an inclusive menu with free drinks and one dish. Swimming, snorkeling, and bathroom services are also included.
La Bamba Beach Getaway
Relax in the Caribbean sun at the famous La Bamba Beach. The beach excursion takes you to a private, gorgeous beach 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south of Mahahual on a quiet road along the Costa Maya shore. The day includes a pre-paid taxi, signature cocktails, lounge chairs, and kayaks. This secluded private beach club also has a pool and beach volleyball club.
Maya Chan Beach Resort
The Maya Chan Beach Resort is a hidden gem 4 miles (6.4 km) south of Costa Maya. This secluded beach offers a tranquil and relaxing escape from the commotion of the cruise ship terminal—especially if four ships are in port. The day pass includes drinks, an all-you-can-eat Mayan buffet, snorkeling equipment, glass-bottomed kayaks, and round-trip transportation.
The Costa Maya beach is also surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and pristine white sand beaches, creating plenty of picture opportunities.
Playa Mahahual Beach
Playa Mahahual Beach is the closest beach for cruise ship passengers visiting Costa Maya. You can easily reach the beach by golf cart, shuttle bus, taxi, or electric bike. Although the beach is free, you must pay for a beach chair. However, there are excellent seafront restaurants and bars along the promenade.
You can enjoy various activities at Playa Mahahual Beach, like swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking. But you may find that the beach gets crowded during cruise days. 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.
Looking for the ultimate beach day in Costa Maya? Dive into my list of the best beaches—each one is just waiting for you!
Fun Shore Excursions from Costa Maya
Plenty of fun, adventurous shore excursions are available from the cruise terminal, showcasing everything from the natural to the historical. Activities range from snorkeling and scuba diving in the pristine waters of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, to exploring ancient Mayan ruins nestled in the lush jungle. For those seeking a thrill, zip-lining through the treetops offers an unforgettable aerial view of the landscape, while ATV tours provide an exhilarating ride along the beach and through the countryside.
Continuing the adventure, kayaking in the calm waters or paddleboarding along the coast allows for a serene yet active experience. These excursions seamlessly blend the thrill of exploration with the serene beauty of Costa Maya’s natural landscapes, ensuring your cruise stop is an adventure-filled day to remember.
Snorkel or scuba dive at the biosphere reserve Banco Chinchorro
The Caribbean waters off Mahahual are among the best in the Mexican Caribbean for snorkeling and scuba diving. Banco Chinchorro is a UNESCO site and the largest coral atoll in Mexico, consisting of three islands. You can marvel at coral reefs, colorful fish, sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins here.
For Scuba Divers: Experienced scuba divers have the unique opportunity to explore the underwater marvels of Banco Chinchorro, including its famous shipwrecks. With nine known shipwrecks in the area, divers can embark on an extraordinary journey through history and marine life. These wrecks, now part of the sea’s ecosystem, provide a habitat for numerous marine species and offer an unforgettable diving experience. It’s advisable to book your diving excursion with a reputable operator that can provide all the necessary equipment and guidance for a safe and memorable adventure.
For Snorkelers: If you’re not a certified scuba diver, fret not. The crystal-clear waters of Banco Chinchorro are also perfect for snorkeling. You can effortlessly float above the reefs, enjoying the spectacular underwater view teeming with marine life. Snorkeling tours are available, offering a chance to experience this aquatic wonderland up close, with options suitable for every skill level. These tours often include equipment rental, making it easy for everyone to partake in this amazing activity.
Practical Tips:
- Best Time to Visit: The best months for diving and snorkeling in Banco Chinchorro are from May to September, when the water is the clearest and the sea conditions are most favorable.
- Conservation: As a UNESCO site and biosphere reserve, it’s vital to respect the environment. Avoid touching the coral or disturbing the wildlife.
- Booking Tours: Opt for tours from Mahahual, as they offer comprehensive packages that include transportation, equipment, and expert guides.
Diving or snorkeling at Banco Chinchorro is not just an activity; it’s an experience that stays with you, offering a blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Many tourists rate diving or snorkeling at Banco Chinchorro as one of the best experiences on the cruise.
Spend a day at Mayá — Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park
The Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park is one of the top shore excursions within walking distance of the Costa Maya Cruise Port. This thrilling water park is ideal for spending a cruise day with kids. They will love the variety of water slides, swimming pools, zip lines, and other water activities.
All the rides are based around the Great Pyramid, which looks like an ancient Mayan Temple. Also, the park is surrounded by lush Mexican jungle. The water park is located a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. However, you can usually order transportation with your cruise line or get a taxi from outside the terminal.
Book a catamaran excursion
Sailing on a catamaran is one of the most popular activities when spending a day in Costa Maya. Many day excursions include food, drink, and a choice of snacks or food.
The Caribbean coast of Mexico is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities, largely due to the stunning beauty of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. This reef is the second-largest barrier reef system in the world and a haven for a diverse array of marine life. Snorkeling adventures along this barrier reef allow you to get up close with a wide variety of tropical marine life, such as snappers, jacks, angelfish, and queen triggerfish. You may even encounter turtles, manatees, or dolphins.
You can book the shore excursions through your cruise line or with a local tour operator outside the terminal building.
Marvel at the ocean on a glass-bottom boat tour
Spending a few hours in a glass-bottom boat is a fantastic way to appreciate the crystal-clear waters in the Caribbean. The boat excursions let you see an exotic range of tropical marine life without getting wet. However, snorkeling adventures are also on offer if you want to dip in the sea and explore the ocean floor yourself.
Many tour operators include bottled water, snorkel gear, and time to relax at the beach before returning to the cruise ship.
Have fun on an ATV adventure excursion in Costa Maya
Why not explore the Costa Maya’s jungle and beaches on an ATV? An ATV adventure excursion is a great way to see the sights and experience the thrill of off-roading through rugged terrain. You get to drive through beautiful mangroves, drive on stunning beaches, and stop off at sightseeing spots along the way.
The best ATV shore excursions include fajitas or tacos, Mexican beers or non-alcoholic cold drinks, and time at the Costa Maya beach. The best thing is that the start-off point and return destination are only a five-minute taxi ride from the cruise port.
Sightseeing and Cultural Excursions in Costa Maya
Costa Maya, located on the Caribbean coast in Mexico, is famous for more than its stunning white sand beaches. It’s full of vibrant Mexican culture and rich history. Many shore excursions occur in spectacular Mayan ruins that showcase an ancient civilization. Also, the famous Bacalar Lagoon is an hour’s drive from the cruise port.
Here are some of the best things to do in and around Costa Maya during your cruise day.
Visit Mahahual
One of the highlights of the Costa Maya cruise port is exploring the charming fishing village of Mahahual. You will enjoy strolling along the promenade (Malecon), browsing the colorful shops, and soaking in the village’s laid-back atmosphere. You can then stop off in one of the many beach bars to enjoy Mexican street food and authentic cocktails.
Many cruise visitors walk along the Malecon to the lighthouse at the village’s north end.
Mahahual Lighthouse (Faro de Mahahual)
Located at the start of the promenade in Mahahual is the Mahahual Lighthouse. This historic landmark offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding area. For a small admission fee, you can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and role in protecting sailors at sea.
Fun fact: The lighthouse is the most southerly lighthouse on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.
Take an excursion to historical Mayan ruins
A 50-minute drive from Costa Maya are some of Mexico’s most stunning archaeological sites—the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins. Visit these places for a fascinating cultural experience and learn about Mayan civilization.
Plenty of tour operators offer shore excursions to these archaeological wonders. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to explore these Mayan ruins with significantly fewer visitors compared to more crowded Mayan sites near Cancun, such as Chichen Itza or Tulum, offering a more serene and personal encounter with history.
Chacchoben Mayan ruins
The Chacchoben Mayan ruins are the most accessible archaeological site from the cruise port.
The ruins at Chacchoben are a vast Mayan settlement dating from 200 BC. The ruins include four grand temples or pyramids, including the Temple of the Vessels and Gran Basamento. One of the temples is still overgrown with vegetation. You can climb the ancient pyramids and wonder at the Mayans’ architectural skills.
The lush tropical rainforests surrounding the Chacchoben Mayan ruins are just as stunning. As you walk the circular path in the forest, you may encounter spider monkeys, armadillos, deer, and howler monkeys.
This day trip includes a guided tour and may also include a visit to the nearby Seven Color Lagoon. You should plan at least four hours to explore the ruins.
Quintana Roo is also home to other ruins from the Mayan civilization. However, these are five-hour round trips, and it’s doubtful you will have time to take in these archaeological wonders. Here’s a short description of the ruins:
Dzibanche ruins: Located in the southern part of Quintana Roo, the Dzibanche ruins feature several prominent pyramids—the Cormoranes pyramid and the K’inich Na’ Pyramid. There is also the well-known Temple of the Lintels. Tourists rarely visit the site, but it offers a more tranquil and immersive experience for visitors, and anyone interested in ancient civilizations.
Kohunlich ruins: The ruins at Kohunlich are mainly unexcavated, but you can visit the ruins of several temples on the expansive site. The archaeological ruins show evidence of citadels, courtyards, pyramids, and plazas. There was also a water collection and drainage system.
Bacalar Lagoon
Also called the Lake of Seven Colors, the Bacalar Lagoon is a stunning shore excursion when visiting Costa Maya. The beautiful lagoon is located about an hour’s drive from the cruise port. It offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place to spend the day.
The best way to visit the Bacalar Lagoon is to book a shore excursion beforehand. The stunning inland freshwater lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear waters, which showcase seven shades of blue. You can go swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding, which provides one of the most peaceful and tranquil ways to immerse yourself in the lagoon’s beauty.
It’s important to note that, due to the distance and range of activities on offer, a visit to the Bacalar Lagoon means you won’t have time to explore Mahahual near the cruise port.
Here are other excursions you can plan while spending the day in the Bacalar Lagoon area.
Boat tours
Boat, pontoon, or catamaran tours are available around the lagoon to explore its various cenotes and mangroves. These water excursions last one to two hours and may include food and drinks.
Swim in Cenote Azul
The lagoon is home to several cenotes—natural, water-filled sinkholes. Cenote Azul is 300 ft. (91 m) deep, giving it a deep blue color. Due to its depth, it’s also a popular location for scuba diving. At Cenote Azul, you can relax on the surrounding wooden swings and take Insta-worthy photos.
Discover stromatolites
The natural wonders of Bacalar Lagoon continue when you find stromatolites. These fossilized structures are over 3.5 billion years old, making them the oldest living lifeforms on the planet. The lagoon is one of the few places on Earth where you can find them.
Bacalar Fort
Known as Fuerte de San Felipe, Bacalar Fort is a historic fort near the lagoon. Built in the 18th century, the fortress protected the town from pirate attacks. Guided tours can help you learn more about its history. Additionally, its position at the edge of the freshwater lake means you get spectacular views over the lagoon and surrounding forests.
Explore downtown Bacalar
Downtown Bacalar boasts a charming, quaint atmosphere, featuring colorful buildings, local shops, and restaurants serving delicious cuisine.
You can stroll through the Bacalar’s streets to admire the architecture, shop for souvenirs, and sample traditional Mexican cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local specialty—marquesitas. This dessert, native to Yucatan, is a sweet crepe filled with Edam cheese, chocolate, cajeta, or jam.
Escape the crowds and uncover the hidden beaches of Costa Maya—close to port and ready to make your day unforgettable.
Costa Maya Cruise Port FAQs
Here are some questions many cruise ship passengers ask before docking in Costa Maya.
Which cruise lines dock in Puerto Costa Maya?
The Costa Maya cruise port is one of the most frequented in the Western Caribbean, with over 500 cruise ships docking in a season. A wide range of cruise lines include Puerto Costa Maya in their Caribbean itineraries, among them Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, and Princess Cruises. In addition to these, many other major cruise lines also make stops at this vibrant port, offering travelers diverse options for exploring the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historical sites of the area.
Is there free Wi-Fi in the Costa Maya cruise port?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal and cruise port area. In Mahahual, many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi if you need to upload your cruise holiday snaps. You are best to log on to an internet hotspot in the village rather than paying the hefty charges on the ship if you need to upload photos.
Is Costa Maya Cruise Port safe for travelers to walk around?
The cruise port in Costa Maya is safe for cruise passengers. The locals are generally friendly; although some sellers can be pushy. However, politely saying no once or twice is usually enough to deter them. As with any unfamiliar place, exercising caution and being aware of your surroundings is always good advice.
Can I walk to the beach from the Costa Maya cruise port?
Walking to the Costa Maya beaches in Mahahual from the cruise port is possible. However, it takes 40 minutes to walk the 2 miles (3.2 km) to the village. Therefore, most cruise passengers take a motorized form of transport, which only takes 10 minutes. And with the taxi fare only $4 per person, it’s worth getting the taxi or shuttle bus—which also costs $4.
What’s the closest beach to Costa Maya cruise port?
Mahahual Beach is the closest beach to the cruise port area in Costa Maya. From the north end of the village, you can walk just over a mile from the lighthouse (Faro de Mahahual) along the beautiful beach or the Malecon (promenade). You can find various beach facilities, cafes, and beachfront bars along the walk.
What language is spoken in Costa Maya?
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. It’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Spanish.
Do cruise ships dock, or is Costa Maya a tender port?
Cruise ships can dock simultaneously at Costa Maya. The purposely built cruise port has a T-shaped pier. Therefore, cruise ships do not tender at the port. It’s good to note that the pier’s length is 1,115 feet or 0.2 miles (340 m). However, a free trolley can take you to the cruise terminal.
How many ships can dock at Costa Maya?
The pier at Costa Maya has berths for up to four large cruise ships.
Can you use US dollars in Costa Maya, Mexico?
You can use US dollars throughout your stay in Costa Maya, even though the Mexican Peso (MXN) is the local currency. It is important to note that the peso also uses the $ sign. Therefore, always check if the listed prices are MXN (sometimes, MX or Mex$) or US dollars.
Be aware that although most vendors accept US dollars, they may give you change in pesos. So, it’s always worth checking beforehand what type of change you’ll get.
One peso (1 MXN) is roughly the equivalent of 5 cents (USD).
What is the best time to visit Costa Maya?
The best time to visit Costa Maya is during the dry season, typically from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the region’s attractions. Summer in the Caribbean is characterized by high humidity and temperatures in the low 90s Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). If you’re looking for more guidance on timing, I’ve covered the best time to cruise the Caribbean in detail.
Try to avoid the hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November. You may get better deals on Caribbean cruises. But your port schedule may be disrupted due to high winds or heavy rain. For a better understanding of the risks, you can also read about the worst time to cruise the Caribbean.
For a detailed month-by-month breakdown of what to expect, including tips on avoiding the rainiest periods, check out my guide on Caribbean weather by month and plan your cruise for optimal weather conditions.
Is it OK to haggle with local vendors?
Haggling is common in many parts of Mexico, including popular tourist destinations like Costa Maya. However, always do this respectfully and politely. It’s also good to avoid allowing vendors to put items in your hands to hold. It’s been heard that some unscrupulous sellers refuse to take the item back and insist you pay for it.
Does Costa Maya have a seaweed (sargassum) problem?
Like other Caribbean coastal regions, seaweed can occasionally accumulate on beaches. Seaweed season in Costa Maya is typically late spring through summer. However, local authorities regularly remove sargassum to keep the beaches clean for visitors.
There is also an anti-sargassum barrier to help reduce the amount of seaweed in the shallow waters beside the seashore.
However, the severity of the seaweed problem can fluctuate due to weather patterns and ocean currents. Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check with recent traveler reviews or local sources for the most up-to-date information on seaweed conditions.
From pristine sands to crystal-clear waters, Costa Maya’s best beaches are just around the corner from the port. Don’t miss the ultimate beach guide!
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