Costa Maya, Mexico
Welcome to Costa Maya, a vibrant port designed exclusively for cruise travelers on Mexico's stunning Caribbean coast. Major lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line frequently call here, offering guests a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. This destination is renowned for its direct access to ancient Mayan ruins, pristine beaches, and a sprawling port village filled with pools, shops, and restaurants. It's the ideal gateway to the history and natural beauty of the Yucatán Peninsula.
One of the most popular excursions is a visit to the ancient Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, located about a 50-minute drive inland, where you can explore jungle-shrouded pyramids and learn about Mayan history. For those seeking adventure closer to the port, the Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom water park offers thrilling zip lines and waterslides right on-site. Many passengers also opt for a relaxing day at Mahahual Beach, a short taxi or trolley ride away, known for its beach clubs, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Another significant archeological site, the Kohunlich Ruins, is a bit further but famous for its impressive Temple of the Masks.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The charming fishing village of Mahahual is the closest destination, located just over two miles from the cruise pier. It's easily accessible via a short taxi or trolley ride and offers a beautiful beachfront boardwalk lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. A more distant but highly recommended day trip is to the Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors." Located about a 75-minute drive from the port, this stunning freshwater lagoon offers breathtaking shades of blue and is perfect for kayaking, swimming, and boat tours.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The Costa Maya cruise port is a large, self-contained complex and is not located within a city. Ships dock directly at a long pier, so no tendering is required. The port village itself is filled with amenities, including swimming pools with swim-up bars, restaurants, and dozens of shops. The nearest town is the small fishing village of Mahahual, which is about a 10-minute taxi or shuttle ride away. While you can spend the entire day within the impressive port facility, transportation is necessary to explore Mahahual's beaches or any other nearby attractions.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). However, US dollars are widely accepted in the Costa Maya port and in the tourist areas of Mahahual, with prices often listed in both currencies. While credit cards are accepted in most of the port's established stores and restaurants, smaller vendors and taxis may be cash-only. ATMs dispensing both Pesos and US dollars are readily available within the cruise port complex for your convenience.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Costa Maya is considered a very safe destination for cruise passengers, especially within the secure, privately-owned port complex. The adjacent village of Mahahual is also accustomed to tourists and is generally safe to explore independently during the day. As in any travel destination, it's wise to practice general safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings. For excursions to more remote locations like the Mayan ruins, booking a tour through the cruise line or a reputable local operator is highly recommended for both safety and convenience.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Costa Maya enjoys a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. Average daily temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit (24-33°C). The main cruise season from winter through spring is generally drier and less humid. The official hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest chance of storms in the late summer and early fall. Visitors should pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and strong sunscreen, as well as insect repellent for jungle excursions.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Within the port complex, everything is walkable. To venture outside, several transportation options are available right at the pier. Taxis are abundant and have set rates to popular destinations like Mahahual. An open-air shuttle also runs a circuit between the port and Mahahual's beachfront for a small fee. For exploring the village, renting a golf cart is a popular and fun option. To visit attractions like the Mayan ruins or Bacalar Lagoon, it's most common to book a shore excursion that includes transportation, as public transit is not geared towards tourists and ride-sharing services are not available.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Shopping opportunities abound in Costa Maya, both within the large port complex and along the beachfront boardwalk in Mahahual. The port features dozens of duty-free shops and high-end boutiques selling jewelry, liquor, and brand-name goods. For more authentic souvenirs, head to the artisan market inside the port or the small shops in Mahahual. Look for local specialties like Mexican vanilla, tequila, silver jewelry, and colorful handmade textiles. While prices in the official port stores are generally fixed, gentle haggling is common and expected with market vendors in Mahahual.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Meet your guide in Mahahual for a journey to the Chacchoben archaeological site for a 1.5-hour guided tour. A native guide will unveil the history of this Mayan city that flourished around 300 AD as you explore structures like Templo 24 and the Gran Plaza. This tour also offers the chance to learn about local plants and spot native fauna like birds and spider monkeys.
With over 20 years of experience, our philosophy is to teach divers through close guidance and provide ample opportunities to get out and dive. Our qualified instructors use quality equipment to offer a multitude of diving choices for both beginners and experienced divers. We are dedicated to making your vacation day the best it can be.
With over 20 years of experience, our philosophy is to teach divers through close guidance and provide ample opportunities to get out and dive. Our qualified instructors use quality equipment to offer a multitude of diving choices for both beginners and experienced divers. We are dedicated to making your vacation day the best it can be.
The owner, a PADI Scuba Instructor since 2006, founded Mahahual Ecotours after years of working in tourism worldwide. Realizing the unique natural beauty of the Yucatán peninsula was being overlooked, he decided to use his local knowledge and expertise to create a new kind of tour company. The company officially began offering nature-related activities in November 2013.
Explore the Bacalar Lagoon, starting at Cenote Esmeralda, where you will see the shades of blue that give the lagoon its famous name. Your tour continues to Cenote Cocalitos, home to ancient living stones, and the open-sky Black Cenote, the deepest point in the lagoon. The tour concludes at the historic Pirate Channel, which offers beautiful views and a rich history.
At the Chacchoben Mayan ruins, a professional guide will lead a jungle walk to explore structures like Temple 24 and learn about local plants and wildlife. This excursion also includes a visit to the Bacalar Lagoon. There you will see Cenote Esmeralda, the deep Black Cenote, and the historic Pirate Channel.
This tour includes round-trip transportation from the port in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with an expert bilingual guide. Your guide will share fascinating insights into Mayan culture and the history of the Chacchobén ruins. You will also enjoy purified water, a tasting of pineapple with honey, and a scenic drive through a local village to experience traditional life.
Our professional staff cares about individual diver needs, offering flexible dive times limited only by air consumption and no-deco limits. We have five different underwater landscapes with dive sites mostly between 45 to 90 feet, all reached by a short 10 to 15-minute boat ride. Diving conditions are friendly with an average visibility of 90 feet, and we encourage advanced divers to contact us.
Our guides have over 50 years of combined experience on the Mesoamerican reef and offer tours in English and Spanish. Your tour includes sanitized snorkeling equipment, a certified guide who takes courtesy underwater photos, and snacks like fresh fruit and guacamole on the boat. Afterwards, you are free to use our beach, kayaks, and paddle boards located next to the Hotel 40 Cañones.
Perfect for first-time or non-certified divers, this plunge into our beautiful reefs is promised to be the best experience of your vacation. Our professional PADI instructors have the experience and patience to make your first dive a truly memorable one. Come discover Costa Maya's hidden underwater wonders with a friendly team; the minimum age for this experience is 10 years old.
Travel through history with a guided tour of the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins before interacting with Mayan descendants in a local village. Witness the daily life of this great culture as a host family teaches you about everything from tortilla ingredients to ancient remedies. The experience is highlighted by trying traditional dishes and a tasty lunch prepared with ancestral techniques and fresh, local products.
With over 20 years in the tequila and tourism market, our trained staff offers an amazing and unforgettable experience in Mahahual. You will taste 100% pure agave tequila, quality spirits, and mezcal to enjoy the authentic taste of Mexico. This tasting takes place in a comfortable, fun, and air-conditioned atmosphere.
Enjoy the magic of Costa Maya on a fun-filled snorkel tour led by our professional crew. This incredible adventure is designed to be an unforgettable lifetime experience. You will have the opportunity to explore vibrant marine nature and see the creatures that live within it.
Come enjoy a day at a very nice beach featuring clean, crystal-clear water with no seaweed. The relaxing experience is enhanced by good music and friendly service from our staff. You can also enjoy a meal of real Mexican food during your visit.
Experience local Yucatan culture by visiting the village of Chacchoben to interact with a Mayan family and witness their daily life. You'll also try traditional dishes prepared with ancestral techniques for an authentic taste of the region. The tour continues with a visit to the Seven Color Lagoon of Bacalar, an old pirate haven where you can swim or kayak. This unforgettable tour is a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
Disconnect at Hayhu, a secluded beach club option where limited access preserves a private and pampering experience. Your package includes a choice from a large variety of barbeque and grilled specialties, such as South American style steak or fresh, locally bought seafood. The bar carries top-shelf brands, so you can enjoy your favorite alcoholic beverages as well as soft drinks and natural juices.
Located on a wonderful secluded beach away from the usual crowds and vendors, Hayhu offers a unique and amazing place to be pampered. Although the beach club is public, access is limited to preserve a strictly private experience for our customers. Your package includes a choice of barbeque and grilled dishes, such as South American style steak or fresh local seafood, and drinks from a bar stocked with top-shelf brands.
Travel through history on a guided adventure to Chacchoben, one of the least explored Mayan archaeological sites. A certified guide will explain the city's secrets as you walk among monuments, ceremonial centers, and even to the top of the pyramids for immense jungle views. During your adventure, you will also learn about local plants, observe spider monkeys, and hear ancient legends.
With over 20 years of experience, our philosophy is to teach divers through close guidance and provide ample opportunities to get out and dive. Our qualified instructors use quality equipment to offer a multitude of diving choices for both beginners and experienced divers. We are dedicated to making your vacation day the best it can be.
The Pitaya Costa Maya Day Pass offers a perfect getaway that includes a lounge bed, unlimited drinks, delicious tacos, and a 50-minute massage. For adventure, enjoy a 1.5-hour snorkeling tour by boat with free underwater photos, or explore the waters with our kayaks. This package provides a memorable day of relaxation and adventure ideal for families, couples, and friends.
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Cruises visiting Costa Maya during the peak months of winter and summer are much more expensive than the low months of spring and fall. Overall cruises visiting Costa Maya are extremely inexpensive compared to other itineraries. The illustration below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Costa Maya.
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