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The Bacalar, or Seven Colors Lagoon, gets its name from the seven different hues of the water that shimmers in shades of blue, aquamarine, and green. Kayaking, tubing on the rivers that feed the lagoon, or just floating in the warm water are all options here. The 18th-century Fort San Felipe Bacalar is nearby, along with a museum telling the story of piracy and Spanish occupation in the area. For upscale options, like fresh seafood and Maya-inspired dishes, opt for Costa Maya’s resorts and boutique hotels.
Shopping and attractions at the cruise terminal
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Many tourists rate diving or snorkeling at Banco Chinchorro as one of the best experiences on the cruise. 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.
Playa Mahahual Beach

One of the highlights of Mahahual Beach is the Malecón Mahahual, a lively boardwalk lined with vibrant bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich Mexican culture and feast on delicious local dishes like fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine. Mahahual Beach, located in the Costa Maya region of Mexico, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.
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Local Cuisine
The park guide showed us around the ruins and Mayan temples and explained about the ancient culture and people. Chacchoben Mayan Ruins are located about 30 miles (50 km) from Costa Maya. The journey by bus or taxi is about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Cruise passengers should use caution to make sure that they are back to the cruise ship on time. Mahahual Beach is a 5 minute taxi ride from the Costa Maya cruise port.
Learn More About Costa Maya Shore Excursions
Visit these places for a fascinating cultural experience and learn about Mayan civilization. Here are some of the best things to do in and around Costa Maya during your cruise day. Costa Maya Cruise Excursions are tours and excursion experts representing the best independent operators in Mexico. Costa Maya, Mexico is uniquely situated in in an ideal location that provides access to incredible sea and land adventures.
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. There is also an anti-sargassum barrier to help reduce the amount of seaweed in the shallow waters beside the seashore. 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. Here are some questions many cruise ship passengers ask before docking in Costa Maya.
What’s the closest beach to Costa Maya cruise port?
If you skip the wi-fi on the ship — which can be upwards of $30 a day in some cases — there is free wi-fi around the Costa Maya port area. This way, you can check in back home for free without having to worry about expensive access. They tie themselves into the ropes and then wind up around the pole, flying through the sky as they circle while the rope then unwinds.
If you’re looking for an easy and fun way to spend the day in the Caribbean port, this is a good option. Maya Chan beach is considered by many cruise visitors to be the best beach in Costa Maya, Mexico. When it’s time to head back to your ship (be sure to allow at least a full hour) just walk back to the road through the hotel. Taxis are usually available, but leave enough time just in case you have to wait. Spend the day on the beach – there are several beach clubs along this stretch of promenade.
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. The best beach in Costa Maya near the cruise port is Playa Bonita. It is a beautiful stretch of white sand surrounded by lush palm trees and crystal-clear waters. Located just five minutes from the cruise port, it is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the stunning views.
Plus you’ve avoided at least another dozen shops that try to lure you inside to buy. Costa Maya was the first “manufactured” cruise port in the Caribbean, but the infrastructure didn’t last too long. After almost three years, I recently had the chance to return to Costa Maya. Costa Maya has always been one of my favorite cruise ports in the Western Caribbean. Right after the museum, there is a taxi stop and a Mayan pyramid replica that many cruise visitors like to climb for a photo memory. Some cruisers and staff say that the taxi stand rates are better at this stop than at the terminal but the Editor hasn't found this to be 100% accurate.
You can find various beach facilities, cafes, and beachfront bars along the walk. 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. You can book the shore excursions through your cruise line or with a local tour operator outside the terminal building. 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.
The pre-purchase window for certain products and activities closes between one and three days prior to the sail date. If you missed the purchase window, check with us once you're on board — we'll help you find what you’re looking for. Located in a remote jungle area filled with deer and monkeys, Chacchoben is a site of mysterious temples, lush gardens, and remarkable history. Many of the ruins remain relatively untouched, so this is an experience that truly puts you in the midst of the ancient Mayan world. With a guide revealing secrets of an incredible history, you’ll walk across sacred ceremonial grounds and discover temples atop Gran Basamento, considered to be the ritual hub of Chacchoben.
You can take a $8 taxi ride (that’s per taxi for one or more people) to anywhere in Mahahual. Is it possible to visit the Mayan Ruins and also enjoy time at the beach? Chacchoben Mayan Ruins site is only 1 hour drive away and you will have enough time afterwards to enjoy at least a couple of hours at the beach in Mahahual. There is only one exit out of the gated cruise terminal's parking area.