Today we are sharing our complete guide on what to do in Costa Maya cruise port terminal—located in Quintana Roo on the Eastern Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, near the small town of Mahahual. It is a popular destination for cruise ships and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors.
Once ashore, visitors can explore the town of Mahahual. This is within walking distance from the port. Mahahual was originally a fishing village and has retained its charm, offering a laid-back and authentic Mexican experience. The town features a long beach promenade, the Malecón, lined with colorful shops, beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy the beach and sample local cuisine.
What To Do In Costa Maya Cruise Port
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Costa Maya Cruise Port?
The Puerto Costa Maya cruise port on Mexico’s Caribbean coast lies just south of the Belize border. The port is well-equipped to handle cruise vessels, with four berths accommodating up to 150,000 gross tons of ships. A tender system is also available to transfer passengers when the port experiences high traffic.
Established in 2007, Puerto Costa Maya is a relatively new port designed in the likeness of a Mayan city. The entrance to the terminal building features a grand Mayan archway, and within, you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, and tourist information booths.
If you’re embarking on a cruise to Costa Maya, it’s highly likely that you’ll dock at the Puerto Costa Maya cruise port. This well-designed and accessible port serves as an excellent gateway to explore the region’s diverse attractions.
How to get around Costa Maya?
Getting around Costa Maya is relatively easy and convenient, offering several transportation options for visitors. If you’re staying within the port area, walking is a popular choice as you can explore the shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot.
Taxis are readily available at the port, allowing you to travel to nearby destinations or attractions. Additionally, many cruise ships offer organised shore excursions, providing transportation, guided tours, and pre-planned itineraries for exploring the area.
Renting a car from local agencies near the port allows you to explore independently but familiarise yourself with local traffic rules and parking options. For a unique experience, you might find bicycle or golf cart rentals near the port, providing a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.
Before making any transportation decisions, check with local authorities or your cruise ship staff for the most up-to-date information and recommendations on navigating Costa Maya.
Can you Walk to Town and the Activities From Costa Maya Terminal?
It’s possible to walk to the town from the Costa Maya Terminal. The terminal is located near the town of Mahahual, which is approximately a 10-15 minute walk away. You can stroll along the Malecón, the vibrant boardwalk parallel to the beach, and explore the shops, restaurants, and bars in town.
Walking from the Costa Maya terminal to the town and activities provides flexibility. Plus, you can take in the surroundings at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
What’s in the Cruise Port Area at Costa Maya
The cruise port area at Costa Maya offers a range of amenities and attractions to enhance the experience of cruise passengers. From shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts to enjoying a variety of dining options, the port area provides a bustling atmosphere.
Visitors can relax at pool and beach clubs, these do come with an entrance fee however, you are provided with free Wi-Fi, a lounge chair, table with an umbrella and access to the bathroom.
Also, you can engage in water activities like snorkelling and paddleboarding. Plus, enjoy live entertainment showcasing the local culture. Additionally, the port area offers designated relaxation spaces and opportunities to learn about the region’s heritage through cultural exhibits and performances. With its diverse offerings, the cruise port area at Costa Maya ensures an engaging and memorable visit for all.
Restaurants at the Costa Maya Cruise Port
The Costa Maya Port boasts a range of dining options to cater to the tastes of its visitors. From beachfront grills to seafood-centric restaurants, there is something for everyone. Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill offers a fusion of American and Mexican cuisine, while Krazy Lobster specializes in delectable lobster dishes.
Jaime’s at the Blue Reef serves Caribbean-inspired flavors, and Tropicante Deli & Coffee Bar provides quick bites and coffee. Maya Chan Beach Resort offers an all-inclusive package with a delicious beachfront lunch. With these diverse options, visitors can indulge in a variety of flavors and culinary experiences during their time at the Costa Maya Cruise Port.
Bars in the cruise port
The Cruise Port area at Costa Maya offers a vibrant bar scene where visitors can unwind and enjoy a variety of refreshing beverages. From beach bars with stunning ocean views to lively establishments with live music, options suit every taste.
Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill and Krazy Lobster provide beachside bars with tropical cocktails and energetic atmospheres. Tropicante Deli & Coffee Bar offers a cozy setting for enjoying a drink, while Nohoch Kay features a beachfront bar with ice-cold beers and cocktails.
Activities at Costa Maya cruise port
The Costa Maya Cruise Port offers a diverse range of activities to suit the interests of every visitor. From exploring the Cruise Port area with its shopping, dining, and swimming pool options, to relaxing on the beautiful beaches and engaging in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking, there are plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure.
Cultural performances and demonstrations provide insights into the rich heritage of the region, while shore excursions offer the chance to explore ancient Mayan ruins, encounter wildlife, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Mayan Wellness Retreat
A Mayan wellness retreat offers a rejuvenating escape that combines ancient traditions with modern wellness practices. Immerse yourself in a serene environment, surrounded by nature and the wisdom of the Mayan culture.
Engage in yoga and meditation sessions that promote balance and inner peace. Experience the healing power of ancient Mayan rituals and therapies designed to restore mind, body, and spirit harmony.
Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization through guided tours to ancient ruins, visits to sacred sites, and interactions with local communities. Gain a deeper understanding of Mayan wisdom and its connection to well-being.
Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park
Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park is a thrilling and immersive attraction in the Riviera Maya. Dive into a world of adventure with water slides, wave pools, and splash areas, providing endless fun for visitors of all ages.
In addition to water-based attractions, Mayá offers exhilarating experiences like zip lines, aerial bridges, and a challenging ropes course. Test your skills and bravery as you navigate through these thrilling adventure elements.
Get a glimpse into Mayan culture through educational exhibits and live performances that showcase the rich history and traditions of this fascinating civilization. Gain a deeper appreciation for the Mayan heritage while enjoying the park’s exciting offerings.
Visit the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
Exploring the Mayan ruins allows you to enter the past and witness the grandeur of structures like pyramids, temples, and ball courts. These ruins’ intricate carvings and impressive scale leave visitors in awe of the Mayan civilisation’s achievements.
Beyond their architectural beauty, the Mayan ruins hold historical and cultural importance. They were centers of religious and ceremonial activities, providing insight into the Mayan beliefs and rituals that shaped their society.
Guided tours and interpretive signage provide valuable information about the history and significance of each site, enriching the visit and offering a deeper understanding of the Mayan civilization.
The Kohunlich Ruins
The Kohunlich Ruins are a hidden gem among the Mayan archaeological sites in Mexico. Located in the dense jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula, these ruins offer visitors a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.
One of the highlights of the Kohunlich Ruins is the magnificent Temple of the Masks. This structure is adorned with impressive stucco masks representing Mayan deities. Showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the ancient Mayan people. You’ll also come across other well-preserved structures, plazas, and ceremonial platforms as you explore the site.
The lush surroundings of the Kohunlich Ruins add to the enchanting atmosphere. The towering trees, vibrant flora, and occasional wildlife sightings create a sense of adventure and discovery. The site’s remote location ensures a more peaceful and immersive experience, away from larger crowds.
Join a Bacalar Lagoon tour
A Bacalar Lagoon tour offers an unforgettable experience of exploring the mesmerizing beauty of the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” Cruise along the calm waters on a boat or kayak, surrounded by breathtaking turquoise hues that change throughout the day.
Discover points of interest such as Cenote Azul, where you can snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters of a natural sinkhole, or explore the captivating mangrove forests and wildlife-rich Canal de los Piratas.
Enjoy various activities on the tour, such as paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing on the lagoon’s pristine beaches. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and breathtaking landscapes of this stunning destination.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a natural paradise and UNESCO World Heritage site located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Spanning over 1.3 million acres, it is one of the largest protected areas in the country and home to an incredible diversity of ecosystems.
Explore the reserve’s diverse ecosystems, including pristine beaches, mangroves, wetlands, and ancient Mayan ruins. Witness a wide array of wildlife, from colorful birds to elusive mammals, as you venture through this expansive reserve.
Take a boat tour through the canals that wind through the mangroves, known as the “floating gardens,” and encounter fascinating creatures like crocodiles and manatees. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the reserve and soak in its natural beauty.
Discover the ancient Mayan ruins of Muyil within the reserve. Climb the tallest pyramid, explore the archaeological site, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization.
Visit the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is a vast and mesmerizing underwater world, stretching over 600 miles along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. Dive or snorkel in the Caribbean Sea to witness the vibrant colors and diverse marine life that call this reef home.
Explore the stunning coral formations, swim alongside graceful sea turtles, and encounter a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. The reef’s incredible biodiversity offers a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience for snorkelers and divers of all levels.
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is not only a natural wonder but also an important ecosystem that provides coastal protection and sustains the livelihoods of local communities. By visiting the reef, you contribute to its preservation and the conservation efforts aimed at ensuring its long-term survival.
If diving or snorkeling isn’t your preferred activity, you can still appreciate the reef’s beauty by taking a boat tour or enjoying a glass-bottom boat ride. These options allow you to witness the reef’s magnificence from the surface while learning about its significance and delicate balance.
Responsible and sustainable tourism practices are crucial when visiting the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Help preserve this precious ecosystem by following guidelines, respecting the marine life, and avoiding activities that could harm the reef’s fragile coral formations.
Zip Lines
In Costa Maya, you can experience the thrill of zip lining through the lush jungle canopy and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding tropical scenery. Several adventure parks and eco-parks in the area offer zip line tours that cater to visitors seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience.
The zip line courses in Costa Maya typically feature multiple lines of varying lengths and heights, allowing you to glide through the air and enjoy the rush of speed. As you soar above the treetops, you’ll have the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the jungle, rivers, and maybe even glimpses of local wildlife.
So, suppose you’re looking for an exciting adventure that combines adrenaline, stunning views, and a connection with nature. In that case, it’s a thrilling activity that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in this tropical paradise.
The Mahahual Village
The Mahahual village is a charming coastal gem on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Its white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters offer a picturesque setting for a relaxing beach getaway.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Malecon, the village’s beachfront promenade, and explore the colourful shops, restaurants, and bars that line the way. Sample delicious seafood dishes, browse local handicrafts, or soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
This is a great place for water activities such as snorkelling. Or simply diving to discover the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs surrounding Mahahual. Fishing enthusiasts can embark on fishing trips to experience the thrill of catching their own dinner.
Visit The Costa Maya Archaeological Site
For history and culture, visit the Costa Maya archaeological site. This showcases the ancient Mayan ruins. This allows you to gain insight into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage while exploring the remnants of the Mayan civilisation.
If relaxation is your goal, find a spot on the beach, lay back, and unwind. Listen to the gentle sound of the waves, bask in the sun, and let the worries of everyday life drift away.
In Conclusion
Costa Maya Cruise Port, like Cozumel and Fort Lauderdale, offers numerous exciting and active opportunities and activities for cruisers. Whether it’s exploring the historical and cultural elements of the Island or taking in the Yukatan vibes and sipping cocktails on the beach, there is something for everyone in Costa Maya.
