Costa Maya Cruise Port Guide: How to Spend One Perfect Day in Port
Updated: 2 days ago
Costa Maya feels a world away from Mexico's busier ports. A purpose-built cruise port sits between the rainforest and the Caribbean, with a sleepy beach town and ancient Mayan ruins close by.
Whether you want a beach day, history or a mix of both, here's how to plan it.
Arriving at the Costa Maya cruise port
Puerto Costa Maya is a purpose-built cruise port in the southern part of Mexico's Quintana Roo state. The port itself has shops, restaurants, bars and pool areas, so some cruisers never leave.
The nearby fishing village of Mahahual is the main draw for independent explorers, with a beachfront promenade lined with beach clubs, restaurants and shops.
Getting around
Option | Best for | What to know |
Shuttle or taxi | Mahahual | A shuttle and taxis run from the port to Mahahual, a short ride away. |
Walking | Mahahual | About a 30 to 45-minute flat walk. It's doable, but it gets hot. |
Golf cart rental | Exploring the coast | Available near the port for small groups who want to explore at their own pace. |
Excursion | Chacchoben, snorkeling | The best way to reach the ruins and offshore reefs with guaranteed return timing. |
The best things to do in Costa Maya
Visit the Chacchoben Mayan ruins
Chacchoben is about an hour from the port, deep in the jungle, and far less crowded than Mexico's famous sites. Temples and plazas rise among the trees, and guided tours explain the history of this ancient city.
Spend the day in Mahahual
Mahahual's beachfront promenade is lined with beach clubs where a food-and-drink purchase usually gets you a lounger and an umbrella. The water is calm, the vibe is relaxed, and prices are straightforward.
Get out on the water
Snorkeling: the reef runs just offshore, and boat trips visit coral gardens full of fish
Kayaking and paddleboarding: easy rentals along the Mahahual beachfront
Banco Chinchorro: a protected offshore reef area, visited on specialized dive trips
Stay at the port
If you'd rather keep it easy, the port village has pools, bars, shops and restaurants just steps from the ship.
Costa Maya beaches
Beach | Type | Getting there | Best for |
Mahahual beach clubs | Purchase minimum | Shuttle, taxi or walk | Classic beach day with food and drinks |
Mahahual public beach | Public | Shuttle, taxi or walk | Free swimming and a local feel |
Port pool areas | Port facilities | Steps from the ship | Staying close and relaxing |
SIX18 tip: Walk a little farther down the Mahahual promenade. The beach clubs get quieter the farther you go from the main drop-off.
What to eat and drink
Fish tacos: fresh and often made with the day's catch
Ceviche: lime-cured seafood, perfect on a hot day
Guacamole and chips: a beach club staple
Cold Mexican beer or fresh coconut water: the ideal beach pairing
Insider tips for Costa Maya
Money: the Mexican peso is the local currency, and US dollars are widely accepted. There are ATMs at the port.
Beat the heat: bring water, a hat and sunscreen, especially if you walk to Mahahual.
Reef-safe sunscreen: many snorkel operators ask for it to protect the coral.
Ruins by tour: Chacchoben is an hour away, so a tour with guaranteed return timing is the safest choice.
Watch the clock: be back at least 30 minutes before all-aboard.
Before you sail, check whether you need a passport for your cruise and budget for cruise gratuities by cruise line.
Costa Maya transportation and return planning
Transport options, prices and accessibility can change. Check the latest information for your sailing before leaving the pier.
Costa Maya cruise port FAQ
How far is Mahahual from the Costa Maya cruise port?
Mahahual is a short taxi or shuttle ride from the Costa Maya cruise terminal; walking can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes after exiting the port, plus the time needed to reach the terminal from your ship. Transport fares and pickup arrangements vary, so confirm the price and the location of the return pickup before departing. Allow extra time for traffic and the walk back through the terminal.
How far are the Chacchoben ruins from the port?
About an hour by road. Most cruisers visit on a guided tour.
Is there a beach at the Costa Maya port?
The port has pools and lounge areas. For real sand, head to the beach clubs in nearby Mahahual.
Planning a cruise with this port on your itinerary? SIX18 Travel can help compare ships, sailings and total vacation costs. Request your personalized cruise quote and get help choosing the right cruise for your travel style.
Get the full Costa Maya playbook
This post is the overview. The SIX18 Voyages Costa Maya Cruise Port Guide goes deeper, with detailed maps, beach-by-beach breakdowns, timing strategies and insider extras for your day ashore. Booking your cruise with SIX18 Travel? Your port guides are included.
Planning more port days? Read our Cozumel cruise port guide.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor | CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist
Comments