Exploring the Costa Maya Cruise Port: What You Need to Know

Costa Maya: A Hidden Gem Among Mexican Cruise Ports

When it comes to Mexican cruise destinations, Cozumel often steals the spotlight. But just a bit further south, Costa Maya is a hidden gem that deserves just as much attention.

Located on the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Quintana Roo, Mexico, Costa Maya is a popular stop for Western Caribbean cruises. It offers a unique mix of modern amenities, rich culture, and stunning coastal beauty.

A Cruise-Friendly Port with Easy Access

Costa Maya welcomes most major cruise lines and can accommodate up to four ships at a time. The pier is quite long, but don’t worry—a shuttle service is available for those with mobility challenges or traveling with young children, making it easy to reach the main terminal area.

Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Costa Maya has something for every cruiser. Stay tuned for the top things to do while in port!

Language & Currency Tips for Costa Maya Travelers

If you’re used to the convenience of Cozumel, where most vendors speak English and happily accept U.S. dollars, you might find Costa Maya a bit different.

Language Barriers & Payment Options

• While some vendors near the port speak English, many speak only Spanish.
• U.S. dollars are not always accepted—some businesses only take Mexican Pesos (MXN).
• Credit cards are widely accepted but not everywhere.

Pro Tip: The peso symbol ($) is the same as the dollar sign, so always double-check the currency before purchasing to avoid confusion.

What to Know About the Costa Maya Cruise Port

Costa Maya is a beautiful and popular cruise destination, but it has also earned the nickname “Costa Maybe” due to the occasional cancellation of port calls caused by high winds. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, your itinerary may be adjusted to another nearby port or, more commonly, converted into an unexpected sea day.

Planning for the Unexpected

While cancellations are not the norm, they do happen. To ensure a stress-free experience, consider these tips:
✅ Book refundable excursions—Check the cancellation policy before reserving tours.
✅ Have a backup plan—bring activities or entertainment in case of an extra sea day.

That said, when the weather is favorable (which is most of the time!), Costa Maya offers an incredible mix of culture, history, and relaxation—so it’s well worth the visit!

Top Things to Do at the Costa Maya Cruise Port

Located just south of the Riviera Maya, the Costa Maya cruise port is more than just a brief stop—it’s a gateway to ancient Mayan ruins, breathtaking beaches, and authentic Mexican culture.

Unlike its more rustic sister port, Progreso, Costa Maya balances modern amenities and historical charm. Designed with cruise passengers in mind, this port immerses visitors in a vibrant cultural experience from the moment they step off the ship.

Exploring the Cruise Terminal

Costa Maya’s cruise terminal is so well-equipped and visually appealing that many passengers choose to stay within the port area rather than venture beyond it.

Here’s what you’ll find at the terminal:
✅ Shops, bars, and restaurants offering souvenirs, local crafts, and delicious Mexican cuisine.
✅ Scenic surroundings with tropical landscaping, flamingos, and parrots.
✅ Clean and safe facilities designed for visitor convenience.

However, while the terminal offers plenty of attractions, not all activities are free. Some cruisers enjoy the tourist-friendly atmosphere, while others prefer to explore the nearby town of Mahahual for a more authentic experience.

Venturing Beyond the Terminal

If you’re looking for a more immersive local experience, head to Mahahual, a small coastal village just a short distance away. This charming town, home to only about 600 residents, offers:

Beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Local vendors selling handmade goods.
Authentic Mexican eateries serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes.

One Minor Drawback

One common complaint about the Costa Maya cruise port is its maze-like layout, which can make it challenging to find the exit. If you plan to leave the terminal, be prepared to navigate a bit before reaching transportation options.

Whether you stay at the terminal or venture into Mahahual, Costa Maya offers plenty of ways to enjoy your port day—from relaxation and shopping to history and adventure.

Exciting Activities at the Costa Maya Cruise Port

The Costa Maya cruise port offers a variety of activities and attractions, making it an appealing stop for cruisers looking to relax, explore, or try something new. While some experiences are complimentary, others require a fee—but they may be well worth it!

Relaxing at the Port’s Free Saltwater Pool

One of the best free perks at Costa Maya is its large saltwater pool, located within the terminal area. However, while the pool is free, loungers and chairs surrounding it are reserved for guests who purchase food or drinks from the nearby restaurant.

If you’re looking for a place to unwind by the water, there’s also a beachfront lounge area with hammocks and loungers to dip your feet in the sand. However, remember that there is no direct ocean access within the cruise terminal. If you want to swim in the sea, you must take a short taxi ride to Mahahual Beach.

Unique Paid Experiences at Costa Maya Port

Beyond the limited free activities, there are several paid experiences worth considering:

Spa & Mayan Bath Experience

Costa Maya’s portside spa offers relaxing massages, but the highlight is the Mayan baths—a unique purification ritual blending relaxation with ancient traditions.

Dolphin Discovery

Even if you don’t pay for an encounter, you can watch dolphins play from the port area. For those wanting a more immersive experience, swimming with dolphins is available right at the terminal—no need to book an off-site excursion!

Aviarius Bird Tour

This elevated aviary experience lets you stroll along a walkway above the cruise terminal. It offers a bird' s-eye view of the bustling port while surrounded by colorful tropical birds. Many can be observed up close or even hand-fed!

Fish Spa

For a fun and unusual experience, the Fish Spa allows you to dip your feet into a tank, where tiny fish gently exfoliate your skin—a relaxing and ticklish experience!

Alcohol Tastings

Want to experience the flavors of Mexico? Several vendors offer tequila and mezcal tastings, often paired with insights into the production process—a great way to sip, savor, and learn!

Make the Most of Your Visit

Whether you’re looking to relax, explore nature, or try something new, the Costa Maya cruise port has plenty to offer. While some activities are free, many of the most memorable experiences come at a cost—so it’s worth planning ahead to make the most of your visit!

Does the Costa Maya Cruise Port Get Crowded? Here's What to Expect

With so many activities and amenities available at the Costa Maya cruise port, many travelers opt to stay within the port rather than booking an excursion. While this can be a convenient and budget-friendly choice, it’s important to be aware of potential crowds, as Costa Maya can get extremely busy—especially on high-capacity days.

How to Check the Crowds Before You Arrive

Before deciding to stay in port, I highly recommend checking the cruise schedule to see how many ships will be docked on your visit. Websites like Cruisemapper, What’s in Port, and Cruise Timetables provide up-to-date information on ship arrivals, which can help you gauge how crowded the area may be.

Crowded Days Can Be Overwhelming

On a recent visit, the port was at full capacity, with three mega-ships docked: Carnival Mardi Gras, MSC Seascape, and Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. This meant nearly 20,000 cruisers were in the port at the same time, creating an overwhelmingly chaotic environment.

The crowds weren’t just in the shopping and dining areas—long taxi lines and extended wait times made it difficult to leave the port, adding to the frustration. I’ve been on many cruises, and this was easily one of the most overcrowded port experiences I’ve encountered.

Plan Ahead for a Better Experience

If your cruise coincides with a high-capacity day, you may want to reconsider staying in port and instead:
✔ Book an excursion to explore the region beyond the terminal.
✔ Head to a nearby beach, such as Mahahual, for a more relaxed atmosphere.
✔ Visit local attractions outside the cruise port to avoid congestion.

While Costa Maya is a fantastic port with plenty to offer, the experience can vary greatly depending on the number of ships in port. A little pre-trip planning can help ensure your day is fun and stress-free!

Top Things to Do in Costa Maya for Cruisers

Costa Maya, while a fantastic cruise port, is still in the process of developing, which means there are fewer excursion options compared to other more established ports. However, there are still plenty of exciting things to do that cater to various interests!

Ocean Adventures

For those who love the sea, ocean-based activities are the main draw. You can embark on private boat charters, which, while expensive for couples, are more affordable for larger groups. Snorkeling is also a popular option, offering a chance to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Caribbean.

Cultural & Historical Excursions

If you're a history buff or looking for a cultural experience, consider a tour of ancient Mayan ruins. These historical sites are located about 30 miles from the port, so while they require some travel time, they offer an incredible glimpse into the region’s rich past.

Exploring Mahahual & the Malecón

For those seeking a more relaxed day, many cruisers taxi to Mahahual, a small coastal village nearby. Here, you can stroll along the Malecón, a scenic promenade lined with beach bars, shops, and local vendors. It’s the perfect place for those who want to enjoy the local culture, grab a bite to eat, or even book a beach day experience at one of the beach clubs.

A Day at the Beach

If a beach day is more your speed, Costa Maya has that covered too. Whether you choose to enjoy the beach clubs at Mahahual or relax near the port, the warm waters and relaxed vibe will provide a perfect backdrop to your cruise day.

While Costa Maya may not offer as many excursion options as some other ports, the ones available are sure to provide an enjoyable and memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone!

Costa Maya Malecón: A Seaside Stroll in Mahahual

The Malecón in Costa Maya is a vibrant and scenic boardwalk that stretches along the beachfront of Mahahual. This 1.5-mile promenade is lined with beach bars, restaurants, shops, and local vendors, making it a lively and enjoyable spot for cruisers looking to soak in the sights and culture of this charming coastal village.

Starting at the lighthouse in the north, the Malecón runs parallel to the shore, leading you toward the quieter, less developed southern end of Mahahual. The pathway is wide, paved, and perfect for a leisurely walk while taking in the ocean views.

Along the way, you'll find a variety of beach bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, and local vendors offering unique items, from handmade crafts to delicious snacks. Many cruisers make it a point to stroll along the promenade, explore the shops, or unwind with a relaxing massage offered by local vendors.

For those looking to enjoy a more relaxed beach day, the Malecón is home to several beach clubs where you can kick back, enjoy a drink, and take a dip in the turquoise waters. Whether you're in the mood to shop, relax, or just enjoy the view, the Costa Maya Malecón offers a perfect blend of leisure and local flavor.

Best Beach Clubs in Costa Maya: Where to Enjoy Sun, Sand, and Service

While Costa Maya might not have the same extensive beach club scene as Cozumel, where all-inclusive options like Mr. Sancho's and Paradise Beach are abundant, there are still ways to enjoy a beach club-like experience in this charming coastal destination.

Currently, Costa Maya doesn't have the large-scale, all-inclusive beach clubs that you might find in other parts of Mexico. However, there are still a couple of ways to enjoy the perks of beachside dining, drinks, and private access to the beach.

Cruisers looking for a beach club vibe typically have two options:

1. Beach Bars/Restaurants—Many local beach bars and restaurants offer access to the beach, along with food and drinks in a laid-back atmosphere. While these spots aren't technically "beach clubs," they do provide a similar experience with the added bonus of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and easy beach access. Just note that not all of these places will be all-inclusive, so it's best to check beforehand.
2. Resort Day Passes—For those seeking more of a traditional beach club experience, purchasing a day pass at one of the local resorts is your best bet. These resorts often offer all-inclusive packages that include food, drinks, and access to private beaches, making them the perfect choice for cruisers looking to relax in style.

While Costa Maya’s beach scene might be more understated compared to other cruise ports, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy a relaxing day by the water with easy access to amenities. Whether at a local beach bar or a resort, you can still experience the beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe of Costa Maya.

Krazy Lobster: The Popular Beach Bar in Costa Maya

One of Costa Maya’s most beloved beach bars and restaurants is Krazy Lobster, a laid-back beachfront spot located just a short and affordable taxi ride from the cruise port. This popular hangout offers guests the perfect blend of beach access, tasty food, and cold drinks—all while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.

At Krazy Lobster, you can spend your day enjoying the beach and staying connected with free Wi-Fi, as long as you make a purchase from their menu. While erosion has affected the beachfront area, there’s still a nice section of the water separated from the waves, along with a floating platform available for patrons to enjoy. For those looking for some added fun, kayaks and beach massages are also offered for an extra fee.

Though not the most luxurious destination in Costa Maya, Krazy Lobster provides a more authentic and budget-friendly experience than you might find at the terminal. Unlike upscale resorts that require day passes or all-inclusive packages, Krazy Lobster operates on a "pay-as-you-go" basis, meaning you can access their beach chairs and umbrellas as long as you order food or drinks.

This approach makes Krazy Lobster an affordable option for those wanting private beach access in Costa Maya, especially if you’re not planning to spend a fortune on food and drinks. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and experience a true local vibe without breaking the bank.

Jaime's at the Blue Reef: A Quieter, Affordable All-Inclusive Beach Day in Costa Maya

While Krazy Lobster is a popular choice for cruisers in Costa Maya, its popularity often means it can get crowded and overwhelming. If you're looking for a more relaxed, less chaotic option with a similar vibe, Jaime's at the Blue Reef is an excellent alternative. Located just a 5-6 minute walk down the Malecón from Krazy Lobster (or around 9 minutes by taxi from the cruise port), this beachfront venue offers a calm, laid-back atmosphere.

Jaime's at the Blue Reef offers an all-inclusive experience at a very reasonable price. For just $61 per adult, $34 per teen, and $22 for kids, you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks, making it a great value compared to other all-inclusive options in Costa Maya. While it costs a bit more than the "pay-as-you-go" model at Krazy Lobster, Jaime's provides a more peaceful, less crowded environment—perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach day without the hustle and bustle.

For cruisers who want an affordable, all-inclusive beach experience without paying resort-level prices, Jaime's at the Blue Reef strikes a perfect balance. It's a hidden gem that gives you all the benefits of a private beach day, but without the large crowds.

While you can book an all-inclusive day at Jaime's online through sites like Get Your Guide, I recommend buying directly on-site. It's much cheaper, and you’ll get the best deal available.

Best Costa Maya Beach Resort Day Pass Options

While beach bars and restaurants in Costa Maya offer a more relaxed beach day experience compared to the public beaches, they can still get crowded. For those looking for a more private, luxurious experience, a beach resort day pass is an excellent choice. These passes grant access to resort amenities like private beachfront areas, pools, and often all-inclusive food and drinks.

Unlike beach bars, resort day passes are typically associated with hotels and resorts, where a limited number of passes are sold to cruisers. While these tend to come at a higher price than the beach bars, the exclusive experience they offer makes them a great option for those looking to escape the crowds. Since capacity is often limited, it’s highly recommended to book these passes in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Here are some of the best beach resorts in Costa Maya that offer day passes:

Nacional Beach Club

My personal favorite and a place I visit every time I'm in Costa Maya, Nacional Beach Club is located just a short 10-minute taxi ride from the cruise terminal. This small, exclusive resort offers a much quieter and more private experience compared to the bustling beach bars.

Nacional Beach Club is located along the Malecón in Mahahual, between Krazy Lobster and Jaime's. The resort limits the number of day passes sold, ensuring a more relaxed atmosphere with guaranteed access to a lounger or palapa. The resort provides all-inclusive food and drinks (including alcohol, juices, and smoothies) at no extra cost. The food here is fantastic, and I especially recommend the Nutella crepe for breakfast!

Another advantage of Nacional is the private, netted swimming area in front of the resort, providing calm, clear waters free from aggressive waves. However, much of the area is rocky due to coral, so walking in the water can be tricky. Still, the resort offers in-water hammocks to enjoy the serene environment.

Additionally, Nacional includes round-trip transportation from the cruise terminal, with the resort paying for the taxi fares. This makes it incredibly convenient and hassle-free. While vendors may walk along the beach due to its location, the resort’s peaceful vibe and top-notch service make it well worth the experience.

Hayhu Beach

Hayhu Beach is a more exclusive, boutique resort located about 28 miles from the cruise port (roughly a 35-minute taxi ride). Although the journey involves dusty backroads, the resort offers a very private, jungle-like paradise that’s perfect for those seeking an intimate, relaxing experience. With a daily guest limit of 50 people, Hayhu maintains a quiet, exclusive atmosphere without the distractions of vendors.

While it is more expensive than other options, Hayhu is an excellent choice for cruisers looking for a peaceful retreat. The resort's all-inclusive pricing covers food and drinks, and if you're visiting with a group, the cost can be more affordable by splitting the price. However, keep in mind that Hayhu is not particularly geared towards children, as the resort's amenities cater more to an adult audience.

While Hayhu allows you to avoid the crowds of the Malecón and frequent vendors, its remote location may not be ideal for everyone, especially families with children who may find the lack of kid-friendly amenities limiting, especially if the sargassum is high.

Maya Chan

Maya Chan is one of the most popular day pass options in Costa Maya, and for good reason. Located about 20 minutes from the cruise terminal, Maya Chan provides a private beachfront experience that’s both affordable and all-inclusive. Priced around $79 per adult (with discounts for kids), Maya Chan offers great value for an all-inclusive day at the beach.

The resort provides shaded palapas, comfortable loungers, and access to kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear. While the buffet-style food may not be as fancy as what you'll find at Nacional or Hayhu, it’s delicious, and the service is excellent. Maya Chan also includes round-trip transportation from the cruise port, so you don’t have to worry about getting there and back.

With its tranquil location away from the busy Malecón, Maya Chan offers a peaceful retreat for cruisers looking to enjoy a laid-back day by the sea.

While Costa Maya's beach bars and restaurants provide an excellent, casual beach experience, a resort day pass is the way to go for those seeking more luxury and privacy. Whether you opt for the more exclusive Nacional Beach Club, the tranquil and intimate Hayhu Beach, or the value-packed Maya Chan, you're sure to have a fantastic beach day in Costa Maya. Just remember to book your day pass in advance to ensure a spot at these sought-after resorts

Beaches at the Costa Maya Cruise Port

As noted above, there is no direct ocean access from the Costa Maya cruise terminal, so enjoying a beach day requires getting out of the port area. While beach bars and restaurants and resort day pass options are popular here, there are free, public beach options.

Playa Mahahual is the closest beach to the Costa Maya cruise port, about 2 miles away, and because of its proximity to the port, most of the “beach break” excursions sold by the cruise lines will be located here. If you want a free beach day, simply take a taxi here, rent a lounger and umbrella from one of the many locals renting them (or not), and enjoy!

If you want to enjoy a beach day in an area more central to bars and restaurants, you could also taxi to the Malecón. As detailed above, the Malecón spans a 1.5-mile beachfront area, but that expanse is pretty exclusively dominated by private bars, restaurants, and resorts, which place their own loungers and umbrellas in the beach areas fronting their properties for the exclusive use of their patrons.

Technically, the beaches are still public, so there's nothing stopping someone from popping down on the beach in any of these locations, though. However, you obviously won't be able to make use of the palapas, loungers, and umbrellas placed there since those are private property.

Lost Mayan Kingdom Waterpark

If you’re traveling with kids or want more excitement than a lazy beach day, consider skipping Mahahual’s beaches and beach clubs in favor of one Costa Maya’s only full-scale waterpark.

Lost Mayan Kingdom is a thrill-filled adventure park almost always available as an excursion through the cruise lines. This park features waterslides, zip lines, and a lazy river, making it a great option for those looking for more action in their day. The park is not all-inclusive, although they have snack bars and places in the park to buy food, and it's located inland, so there's no beachfront access. 

Admission to the Lost Mayan Kingdom can be pricey, often around $110-120 per adult, but it includes access to all adventure activities. While buying tickets in person at the entrance is technically possible, there are no reliable online options for independent advance purchase—meaning you risk the attraction selling out on busy cruise days. And given the lack of other waterpark options in Costa Maya, it does frequently sell out. Additionally, the cost of booking through the crusie line is often cheaper than buying tickets on-site.

So this is the rare case where booking through the cruise line is the best option if you want to visit the Lost Mayan Kingdom.

Exploring Mahahual

If you’re looking to stretch your legs and experience a bit of local flavor, a scenic walk to the nearby village of Mahahual is a great option. The walk takes around 30-45 minutes, but given the distance and the underdeveloped infrastructure in the area, I highly recommend taking a taxi or renting a golf cart. Taxis are very affordable in Costa Maya, and the short ride to Mahahual is typically under 10 minutes.

Mahahual offers a more authentic experience of Mexican culture compared to the cruise port area. However, it's important to note that not all shops and restaurants in Mahahual accept US currency or credit cards, and English is less commonly spoken by local vendors. It's a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, but be prepared for a more traditional experience.

Taxis in Costa Maya

Right outside the Costa Maya cruise terminal, you’ll find a convenient taxi stand with clear signage, making it easy to find a ride. While taxis are plentiful, it’s worth noting that many taxi drivers here operate on a cash-only basis. Most drivers accept US currency, but credit cards are generally not accepted, and English is not as widely spoken as near the cruise port. However, most drivers can communicate well enough to take you to the main tourist spots.

Before hopping into any taxi, always confirm the fare and payment method to avoid any surprises. Taxi fares are regulated, and you’ll find fare signs at the stand indicating prices for popular destinations.

For example, on my recent visit, the taxi ride from the cruise port to the Malecón cost just $5 per person. While the taxis here may not always be in the best condition, with some lacking fully functioning air conditioning, the price makes it a great deal.

Costa Maya Cruise Ship Schedule

Before you head to Costa Maya, it’s a good idea to check the cruise ship schedule for the port. This can help you avoid the crowds, as the port can get quite busy when multiple ships are in port at the same time. By knowing the arrival and departure times of ships, you can better plan your activities to make the most of your day. A great resource for this is CruiseMapper, which provides up-to-date schedules and other helpful information about cruise ships.

Costa Maya Cruise Port Time Zone

Time zones can get tricky while cruising, especially when your itinerary includes multiple time zone changes. Your captain will make announcements to update you, but it’s helpful to be aware of the time zone difference ahead of time when planning your stop at Costa Maya, especially if you have excursions scheduled.

Most cruise lines operate on "ship time," which is typically set to the time zone of your departure port. For simplicity, it’s a good idea to keep your phone or watch set to ship time. Costa Maya, however, operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), as part of Mexico’s four time zones. Keeping track of time is key to staying on schedule and ensuring you’re coordinated with ship time.