Welcome to Costa Maya

Welcome to Costa Maya, a vibrant and sun-soaked port on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Costa Maya is renowned for its pristine beaches, Mayan ruins, and crystal-clear waters. As one of the region’s most popular cruise destinations, it offers visitors a perfect combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and recreational activities, making it ideal for those looking to relax or explore.

General Port Facts

Costa Maya is a docking port, and cruise passengers can easily disembark directly onto the pier. It’s a relatively busy port, hosting over 1 million passengers annually. The port is popular for its proximity to ancient Mayan ruins, vibrant coral reefs, and eco-parks, attracting tourists who want to experience both history and nature. Most visitors spend their time enjoying the beach, snorkeling, or taking excursions to the Mayan ruins nearby.

Getting from Ship to Town

The cruise terminal at Costa Maya is designed for easy access to the surrounding areas. The port itself has a large shopping and entertainment complex, so many passengers choose to stay nearby. However, for those looking to explore further, the town of Mahahual is just 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) away and can be reached in about 5-10 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus. Taxis are readily available at the port, and shuttle services are offered to Mahahual Beach, where visitors can enjoy white sand and turquoise waters.

Transportation Options

While there is no train service in Costa Maya, visitors can easily travel by bus or taxi to explore the region. Nearby tourist-friendly towns include Mahahual (3 km/1.8 miles), a laid-back beach town with great snorkeling opportunities, and Bacalar (90 km/56 miles), home to the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the “Lake of Seven Colors.” Bacalar is about 1.5 hours by road, and buses or taxis can take you there from the port.

Local Foods

Costa Maya’s cuisine is a delicious blend of Mexican and Caribbean flavors. Some must-try dishes include:

• Tacos al Pastor – Marinated pork tacos served with pineapple, cilantro, and onions.
• Ceviche – Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice and mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
• Cochinita Pibil – Slow-cooked pork marinated with citrus and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and roasted to perfection.
• Churros – Fried dough pastries dusted with sugar and cinnamon, often served with chocolate or caramel dip.
• Agua de Jamaica – A refreshing hibiscus-flavored drink, perfect for a hot day.

Top 5 Attractions

• Mahahual Beach – Enjoy the white sand, clear waters, and beachfront bars. Entry is free, but you can rent chairs and umbrellas for a small fee.
• Chacchoben Mayan Ruins – Located about 50 km (31 miles) from the port, this archaeological site offers an amazing glimpse into ancient Mayan civilization. Excursions cost approximately $45-$60 USD per person.
• Bacalar Lagoon – Known for its stunning shades of blue, this lagoon is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. Entrance fees range from $5 to $10 USD, depending on the access point.
• Mayan Cultural Experience – Participate in a guided tour that immerses you in local Mayan culture, from traditional cooking classes to visiting local artisans. Tours generally cost around $35 USD per person.
• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving – Costa Maya is famous for its coral reefs, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Guided tours and equipment rental are available at $50-$100 USD, depending on the length of the trip.

Interesting Facts About the Port

• Costa Maya is home to the second-largest coral reef system in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.
• The port was specifically developed for cruise ships, making it one of the most modern cruise terminals in the region.
• Mahahual, once a sleepy fishing village, has transformed into a popular tourist hub thanks to the growing cruise industry.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Costa Maya is located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, near the border with Belize. The port is surrounded by the lush Yucatan jungle to the west and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea to the east. Visitors can expect to see diverse wildlife, including tropical birds and marine life like sea turtles and rays. Nature lovers may also enjoy the nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the port.

Historical and Cultural Facts

Costa Maya is steeped in Mayan history, with several ancient ruins located nearby. Chacchoben, one of the most visited sites, was once a significant religious and political center in the Mayan civilization. The region also played a vital role in the development of Mayan trade routes along the Caribbean coast.

The culture of the local community is a blend of traditional Mayan heritage and modern Mexican influences, giving visitors a unique cultural experience when exploring the region’s markets, artisans, and historical landmarks.

Local Customs

When visiting Costa Maya, it's important to embrace local customs, which are rooted in warmth and hospitality. A simple “Hola” (hello) goes a long way when greeting locals, and bargaining is often expected in local markets. Tipping is common in restaurants, with 10-15% being the norm.

Family Activities by Age Group

• Up to 6 years old: Mahahual Beach is perfect for young children to safely play in the shallow waters and soft sand.
• 7-12 years old: Visit the Lost Mayan Kingdom Water Park, which offers water slides, zip lines, and lazy rivers for an adventurous day out.
• 13-18 years old: Teenagers will love snorkeling or scuba diving around the Mesoamerican Reef, one of the world’s top underwater ecosystems.