Cruise Through the Post
Costa Maya is a stunning paradise at the tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula that offers a captivating blend of ancient Mayan history, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
Whether you’re a cruise visitor with limited time or a seasoned traveler seeking cultural immersion, Costa Maya has something for everyone.
This guide unlocks the secrets of this captivating destination, transforming your Costa Maya cruise stop into an extraordinary experience.
Free Things To Do In Costa Maya On a Cruise
Here’s a list of fun and free things you can enjoy in Costa Maya:
Explore the Costa Maya Cruise Port: The port itself offers plenty to keep you entertained for a while.
- Swim in the Free Pool: Right within the port area, you’ll find a large, inviting pool with a swim-up bar to enjoy.
- Watch dolphins: Check out the resident dolphins swimming and playing in their enclosures.
- Shopping and window-shopping: Stroll the shops filled with souvenirs, crafts, and local goods.
- People-watching and entertainment: Enjoy live musicians and sometimes even Mexican wrestling matches.
Hang Out at Costa Maya Beaches: While some popular beach spots might require a small entry fee or have paid amenities, you can always find stretches of free, public beach to enjoy.
- Beach outside the port: Walk out the port gates towards Mahahual and you’ll find a stretch of beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Beaches in Mahahual: Explore the town of Mahahual for public beach access points.
Walk the Malecon in Mahahual: The seaside boardwalk (Malecon) in the town of Mahahual is a lively spot for a stroll. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, sea views, and local shops.
Take Photos with the Colorful Art: Both the port and Mahahual feature large, vibrant Costa Maya signs and sculptures perfect for snapping those vacay memories.
Tips:
- Taxi to Mahahual: A taxi from the cruise port to the town of Mahahual costs a few dollars each way.
- Bargaining: If you’re shopping at the markets, try your hand at bargaining for souvenirs.
Best 15 Things To Do In Costa Maya
1. Costa Maya Shore Excursion: Chacchoben Day Trip
Activity
- Explore the archaeological ruins of Chacchoben, a Mayan city hidden deep within the Costa Maya jungle.
Transportation
- Round trip transportation from the port in an air-conditioned minivan is included.
Guide
- A professional archaeologist guide will lead the tour, explaining the significance of the excavated temples, pyramids and ancient walls. You’ll also learn about the Mayan civilization and the history of the ruins.
Inclusions
- Bottled water and soda are included in the tour.
Highlights
- Walk around the archaeological ruins of Chacchoben and see several reconstructed temple pyramids and a stela with Mayan hieroglyphics.
- Spot native plants and animals like howler monkeys and armadillos, and learn about the nearby presence of jaguars, pumas, and tapirs.
- Peruse the gift shop for special souvenirs.
2. Chacchoben & Bacalar Combo Excursion Costa Maya
Activity:
- Combo tour including:
- Chacchoben Mayan Ruins exploration
- Bacalar Lagoon boat tour
Transportation:
- Round trip transportation from Costa Maya is included.
Guide:
- A professional guide is included throughout the tour.
Inclusions:
- Entrance fees to Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Water
- Alcoholic beverages
Highlights based on Reviews:
- Knowledgeable guides who can provide insightful information about the Mayan ruins and Bacalar Lagoon.
- Breathtaking scenery at Bacalar Lagoon, known for its beauty.
- Delicious food to keep you fueled throughout the day.
- A fun and informative experience that combines historical exploration with relaxation at the lagoon.
Itinerary (as mentioned in the reviews):
- Travelers will spend 1.5 hours exploring the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins.
- 2.5 hours will be spent at Bacalar Lagoon, where you can enjoy a boat tour.
- An hour is allocated for lunch.
Reviews also mentioned that the tour company is flexible and might adjust the itinerary based on the group’s needs.
Overall, this tour seems like a great way to experience the Mayan ruins and the beauty of Bacalar Lagoon in one day. If you’re interested in learning more about Mayan history and relaxing in a stunning natural location, this combo tour might be the perfect choice for you!
3. CHACCHOBEN Ruins and BACALAR Lagoon Boat Excursion from Costa Maya
Activity:
Combo tour including:
- Chacchoben Mayan Ruins exploration
- Bacalar Lagoon boat tour
Transportation:
- Round trip transportation from Costa Maya is included.
Guide:
- A professional guide is included throughout the tour.
Inclusions:
- Entrance fees to Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Water
- Alcoholic beverages
Highlights based on Reviews:
- Knowledgeable guides who can provide insightful information about the Mayan ruins and Bacalar Lagoon.
- Breathtaking scenery at Bacalar Lagoon, known for its beauty.
- Delicious food to keep you fueled throughout the day.
- A fun and informative experience that combines historical exploration with relaxation at the lagoon.
Itinerary (as mentioned in the reviews):
- Travelers will spend 1.5 hours exploring the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins.
- 2.5 hours will be spent at Bacalar Lagoon, where you can enjoy a boat tour.
- An hour is allocated for lunch.
Reviews also mentioned that the tour company is flexible and might adjust the itinerary based on the group’s needs.
Overall, this tour seems like a great way to experience the Mayan ruins and the beauty of Bacalar Lagoon in one day. If you’re interested in learning more about Mayan history and relaxing in a stunning natural location, this combo tour might be the perfect choice for you!
4. Mahahual and Costa Maya Birdwatching
- Activity: Birdwatching tour
- Location: Jungle, mangroves, and grasslands around Mahahual and Costa Maya
- Group size: Small
- Guide: Included
- Transportation: Included
- Lunch: Included
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Sounds like a great way to explore the natural beauty of Costa Maya and spot some amazing birds!
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5. Salsa & Salsa cooking lessons + Beach Break, with pick up
This tour combines a fun cooking class with a relaxing beach break, allowing you to experience the flavors and culture of Costa Maya.
- Activity: Learn how to make salsa, guacamole, and other Mexican favorites in a fun and interactive cooking class. No prior cooking experience is necessary! You’ll also get to learn some salsa dancing moves to burn off those delicious calories.
- Transportation: Roundtrip transportation from the cruise port to a local beach club is included.
- Guide: A local expert will lead the cooking class and salsa dancing lesson.
- Inclusions: The tour includes the cooking class, salsa dancing lesson, beach club access with use of their facilities, and a taste of your creations.
- Highlights: Learn the secrets behind delicious Mexican cuisine, enjoy a relaxing time at the beach, and experience the fun and energy of salsa dancing.
6. Bacalar – 7 Colors Lagoon Excursión Costa Maya
This is a small-group tour that takes you to the Bacalar Lagoon, also known as Cenote Esmeralda. Here are some of the details about the activity:
- Activity: Swim in the Bacalar Lagoon’s seven colors of water, explore cenotes (natural sinkholes), and learn about the area’s pirate history.
- Transportation: Roundtrip transportation from the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal by minibus is included.
- Guide: A guide will be there throughout the tour to lead the group and provide information about the lagoon and cenotes.
- Inclusions: Lunch, snacks, and beverages are included in the tour price.
- Highlights:
- Swim in the Bacalar Lagoon’s seven colors of water
- Explore Cenote Cocalitos and the Black Cenote
- Learn about the area’s pirate history
If you’re looking for a relaxing and interesting activity to do on your Costa Maya cruise vacation, this Bacalar Lagoon tour looks like a great option.
7. Day Pass to Pez Quadro Beach Break with Lunch and Open Bar
Activity: This activity grants you a day pass access to the Pez Quadro Beach Club in Mahahual.
Transportation: Transportation is not included in the price of the day pass.
Inclusions:
- Access to the beach
- Lounge chairs
- Bathrooms and showers
- Wi-Fi
- Open bar
- One-course lunch
Highlights:
- Relax on the beach and soak up the Caribbean sun on a comfortable lounge chair.
- Enjoy refreshing drinks from the open bar throughout the day.
- Savor a delicious one-course lunch included in your day pass.
- Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi access.
- Take advantage of the clean and convenient bathroom and shower facilities.
Overall, the Pez Quadro Beach Club Day Pass seems like a great option for a relaxing beach day in Costa Maya. With lounge chairs, an open bar, lunch, and Wi-Fi included, you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenery without having to worry about a thing.
8. Mexican Cooking Class + Pool Day (Just 1 block from Cruise Port)
A shore excursion in Costa Maya that focuses on cooking Mexican food and drinks, and relaxing by the pool.
The excursion takes place at the Catrina Restaurant, which is located one block from the cruise port. Travelers will learn how to make salsa, guacamole, tacos, and margaritas.
They will also have access to an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, the pool, and all its facilities. Gratuities are included.
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9. Costa Maya Reef Snorkeling Excursion + Beach day
- Activity: This tour combines snorkeling in the Costa Maya Reef Area with a relaxing beach day at Biza Sunset Beach Club.
- Transportation:
- Roundtrip transportation from the cruise port to the beach club is included by boat.
- Guide:
- The details about a guide are not explicitly mentioned. It’s possible a guide might be present on the boat ride or at the beach club to answer questions, but this isn’t confirmed.
- Inclusions:
- Snorkel equipment rental (mask, fins, and snorkel) is included.
- Entrance fee to Biza Sunset Beach Club is included.
- Use of beach chairs and hammocks at the beach club is included.
- Open bar with drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) is included (duration not specified).
- Snacks are included (details not specified).
- Highlights:
- This tour allows you to experience both snorkeling in the beautiful Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and relaxing on a pristine beach.
- Biza Sunset Beach Club likely offers amenities like showers, restrooms, and a beachfront location for relaxation.
- Unlimited drinks and snacks (for a certain duration) are included, making it an all-inclusive beach experience.
Overall, this tour seems like a great option for cruise visitors in Costa Maya who want to experience both snorkeling and beach relaxation in a convenient package.
10. Costa Maya Open Bar ATV Adventure
Activity:
- This tour is an ATV ride through the Mahahual area of Costa Maya.
- The description downplays any “extreme” elements or jungle exploration, focusing on a relaxing village experience.
Transportation:
- Transportation is not explicitly mentioned, so it’s likely you would need to make your way to the meeting point, located at Av. P.º del Puerto 1286, 77976 Mahahual, Q.R., Mexico (mentioned on the webpage).
Guide:
- A guide is included in the tour.
Inclusions:
- ATV rental for the duration of the tour
- Helmets and goggles for safety
- Lunch
- Open bar access (for a limited time)
- Bottled water
Highlights:
- Explore Mahahual along the Costa Maya coastline on an ATV. This suggests a scenic ride along the beach or coastal roads.
- Relax on the beach and enjoy lunch with open bar access (limited time).
11. All-inclusive VIP Pack, Massage + transportation
Activity: All-Inclusive Beach Club Package at La Chilangaloense Beach Club
Location: Mahahual (near Costa Maya), Mexico
Inclusions:
- Round-trip Transportation: Taxi transfer between the Costa Maya cruise port and the beach club.
- Beach Club Access: Full-day use of La Chilangaloense Beach Club’s facilities. This likely includes pools, sunbeds, restrooms, etc.
- Lunch: A delicious meal featuring fish tacos and other traditional local dishes.
- Snorkeling: Equipment provided for exploring the nearby reefs, with the chance to see turtles and other marine life.
- Massage: A 30-minute relaxing massage (for adults and seniors only).
- Alcoholic Beverages: Drinks available at the beach club.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities: Tips for staff are not included in the package price.
Highlights:
- All-Inclusive Relaxation: This package focuses on a full day of beachside enjoyment with food, drinks, and activities included.
- Snorkeling Adventure: Discover the underwater world of Costa Maya’s reefs.
- Massage Time: Unwind with a pampering massage session.
- Hassle-Free Experience: Transportation is arranged for you, making for easy access to the beach club.
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12. Costa Maya Sport Fishing
Activity: Costa Maya Private Sport Fishing Charter
Location: The waters off Costa Maya, Mexico.
Transportation:
- It’s likely that transportation is not included, and you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point or departure dock.
- Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and can take you to the designated location.
Guide:
- A captain and crew are likely included, who will guide you on the fishing adventure and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Inclusions:
- Private Fishing Charter: You’ll have exclusive use of the fishing boat for your group, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Fishing Boat: The webpage doesn’t specify the size or type of boat, but it will be equipped for sport fishing in the area.
- Fishing Tackle: All the necessary fishing equipment, including rods, reels, lures, and bait, will be provided.
- Fishing Experience: Enjoy a day of trolling, jigging, or even fly fishing, depending on the type of fish you’re targeting.
Highlights:
- Catch the Big One: Go after a variety of pelagic and resident fish species like barracuda, mahi mahi, Spanish mackerel, wahoo, tuna, and more.
- Private Adventure: Enjoy a personalized fishing experience without sharing the boat with other groups.
- Explore the Waters: Spend a day on the beautiful Caribbean Sea, soaking up the sunshine and fresh air.
- Potential Catch: If you’re successful, you might even get to enjoy your catch later, prepared at a local restaurant (check for additional fees).
13. Two tanks local diving for certified divers
Activity: Two-Tank Local Diving in Costa Maya
Location: The specific dive sites will likely depend on weather conditions and diver experience, but will be in the vicinity of Costa Maya.
Inclusions:
- Boat Transportation: Round-trip transportation by boat to the dive sites.
- Dive Guides: Experienced and certified dive guides will accompany you on both dives.
- Diving Equipment: The tour includes the use of standard scuba diving equipment (BCD, regulator, weights, weight belt, fins, mask, snorkel). Nitrox is available at an additional cost (check details on the webpage).
- Tanks: Two compressed air tanks, one for each dive, are included.
- Refreshments: Snacks and drinks will be provided onboard the dive boat in between dives.
Exclusions:
- Wetsuit: A wetsuit is not necessarily included. Check the webpage for details on what’s included and what you might need to bring or rent.
- Gratuities: Tipping the dive crew is customary but not included in the tour price.
Highlights:
- Two Dives: Explore the underwater world of Costa Maya on two separate dives.
- Experienced Guides: Certified dive guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Dive Equipment: No need to bring your own bulky scuba gear (standard equipment is included).
- Unforgettable Exploration: Discover the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of the region.
Important Notes:
- Certification: A valid scuba diving certification (like PADI or SSI) is required to participate.
- Medical Clearance: A medical clearance from a doctor might be necessary. Double-check requirements on the booking page.
- Experience Level: This activity might be suitable for experienced divers comfortable with two dives in a day.
14. Massage + Pool Day + Cocktails (Just one block from the Port)
Activity: Massage, Pool Access, and Cocktails (1 Block from the Port)
Location: Catrina Restaurante Costa Maya, located just one block away from the Costa Maya Cruise Port in Mahahual, Mexico.
Inclusions:
- Choice of Massage: Choose from one of four massage styles:
- Holistic Massage
- Relaxing Massage
- Lymphatic Massage
- Reflexology Massage
- Pool Access: Enjoy the pool facilities at the location after your massage.
- Cocktails and Snacks: Relax with included cocktails and snacks.
- Convenient Transportation: Free pick-up from the Costa Maya cruise port is likely included, but it’s best to double-check that in the tour description or with the provider.
Highlights:
- Post-Cruise Relaxation: This package focuses on unwinding after your cruise with a pampering massage and pool time.
- Great Value: Get a great massage, drinks, snacks, and pool access all included.
- Location: It’s conveniently located near the cruise port.
- Variety: Choose the massage style that best suits your needs.
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15. Costa Maya Bike sightseeing, beach day and lunch Excursion
Activity: This tour combines a leisurely bike ride through Costa Maya with relaxation at a beach club.
Transportation:
- Free Transportation: Round-trip transportation between the Costa Maya cruise port and the starting point of the tour is included.
Inclusions:
- Bike Rental: You’ll have a bicycle for the duration of the tour.
- Guided Tour (possible): While not explicitly mentioned, some tours might include a guided exploration of Costa Maya town.
- Beach Break: Enjoy free time at Ibiza Sunset Beach Club, which might include access to:
- Beach loungers
- Use of the beach facilities (restrooms, changing areas)
- Drinks (details to be confirmed)
Highlights:
- Active Exploration: Discover Costa Maya in a fun and eco-friendly way on a bike ride.
- Relaxation Time: Unwind and soak up the sun at a beautiful beach club.
- Sightseeing (possible): Depending on the tour, you might explore interesting sights in town.
Insider Tips for Maximizing Your Costa Maya Experience
Best Time to Visit: Costa Maya enjoys a tropical climate year-round. The weather is generally pleasant from December to May, with sunshine and warm temperatures. The shoulder seasons (June to November) experience higher humidity and occasional rain showers, but also offer the benefit of fewer crowds.
Getting Around: Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and can whisk you away to explore Mahahual or nearby attractions. Alternatively, you can rent bicycles and explore the town at your own pace. The more adventurous can opt for golf cart rentals for a unique sightseeing experience.
- Currency Exchange and Payments: The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). While some vendors may accept US Dollars, it’s recommended to exchange some currency for smaller purchases and to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s always wise to carry some cash as a backup.
- Bargaining Tips: Shopping at local markets in Mahahual presents an opportunity to test your bargaining skills. Prices are often negotiable, so don’t be afraid to start with a lower offer. Be friendly and respectful in your negotiations, and remember that it’s all part of the experience.
Conclusion
Costa Maya’s captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and thrilling adventures will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. With this ultimate guide to things to do in Costa Maya, your cruise visit is sure to be extraordinary!
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