Costa Maya
A rapidly growing cruise destination on Mexico's Caribbean coast, Costa Maya offers access to ancient Mayan ruins at Chacchoben, the stunning Bacalar Lagoon, pristine reef snorkeling, and the charming beach town of Mahahual.
Cruise Port Intelligence
Dock Port
Ships dock at the Costa Maya cruise port complex, which features a large pool, shops, restaurants, and bars within the port area.
Transport Needed
The port complex itself is walkable and has plenty of amenities. The nearest town (Mahahual) is a short taxi or shuttle ride. Major attractions like Chacchoben ruins and Bacalar Lagoon require 1-2 hour drives with organized transportation.
Best For
Port Hours
Typical 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Currency & Language
Safety
Port complex and Mahahual are safe. Use organized transport for longer trips.
Insider Tips for Costa Maya
- Mahahual's beach boardwalk (Malecón) is a great free option with beach bars and swimming
- Bacalar Lagoon of Seven Colors is stunning but a 2-hour drive — start early
- Chacchoben ruins are the closest major Mayan site and less crowded than Tulum
- The port complex pool is free and a good fallback if you don't want to venture out
Cruise Itineraries Visiting Costa Maya
7-Day Western Caribbean
Carnival Cruise Line • 7 Days • from Galveston, TX
7-Day Western Caribbean
Carnival Cruise Line • 7 Days • from Tampa, FL
6-Day Western Caribbean
Carnival Cruise Line • 6 Days • from Miami, FL
7-Night Western Caribbean
Royal Caribbean • 7 Days • from Galveston, TX
7-Night Western Caribbean
Royal Caribbean • 7 Days • from Tampa, FL
7-Night Western Caribbean
Norwegian Cruise Line • 7 Days • from New Orleans, LA
7-Night Western Caribbean
Norwegian Cruise Line • 7 Days • from Galveston, TX
7-Night Western Caribbean
MSC Cruises • 7 Days • from Miami, FL
7-Night Western Caribbean
MSC Cruises • 7 Days • from Galveston, TX
7-Night Western Caribbean
MSC Cruises • 7 Days • from Port Canaveral, FL
14-Night Grand Caribbean
MSC Cruises • 14 Days • from Miami, FL
10-Night Caribbean Explorer
MSC Cruises • 10 Days • from Port Canaveral, FL
7-Night Western Caribbean & Belize
MSC Cruises • 7 Days • from Miami, FL
7-Night Western Caribbean & Honduras
MSC Cruises • 7 Days • from Galveston, TX
7-Night Western Caribbean & Cayman
MSC Cruises • 7 Days • from Miami, FL
7-Day Western Caribbean
Norwegian Cruise Line • 7 Days • from Miami, FL
Shore Day Guide: Costa Maya
Quick Stats
Excursions in Costa Maya
57 excursions available
Port Reports from Cruisers
Real field reports from travelers who've visited Costa Maya