Welcome to Costa Maya, a colorful cruise destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast where ancient Mayan culture meets turquoise water, tropical beaches and easygoing island-style fun.
Your ship docks at Puerto Costa Maya, just outside the small seaside town of Mahahual. You can spend the day exploring Mayan ruins, snorkeling the Mesoamerican Reef, relaxing at a beach club, visiting the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon—or simply enjoying everything available around the cruise port.
Whether you want adventure, history, incredible food or a margarita with your toes in the sand, Costa Maya gives you plenty of ways to enjoy your port day.
⚠️ Leave the Vape on the Ship.⚠️
As of January 16, 2026, Mexico's updated federal health law prohibits the production, importation, exportation, sale, distribution and commercial supply of vapes, e-cigarettes and similar electronic smoking devices.
If your cruise is stopping in Cozumel, Costa Maya or another Mexican port, the safest choice is simple: do not take your vape off the ship.
This includes:
Disposable vapes
Rechargeable vaping devices
E-cigarettes
Vape pods and cartridges
E-liquids, including products containing nicotine
Similar electronic smoking devices
⚠️ Fines & Penalties ⚠️
Mexico is taking violations involving prohibited vape activities seriously. Under the 2026 law, prohibited commercial activities involving these products can carry:
💰 Fines: 100–2,000 times Mexico's daily UMA, which was approximately 11,000–226,000 Mexican pesos when the legislation was approved.
🚔 Prison: Certain prohibited activities involving the production, importation, exportation, distribution, sale or supply of these products can carry 1–8 years in prison and fines equivalent to roughly $12,000 to $14,000 USD (up to 226,280 Mexican pesos).
🗑️ Confiscation: Mexican health and customs authorities have enforcement powers regarding prohibited vaping products, so travelers should be prepared for a device or related products to be seized or confiscated if authorities determine they violate Mexican law.
Important Personal-Use Distinction
The law does not mean that a cruise passenger caught personally using or possessing a single vape automatically faces an eight-year prison sentence. Mexican lawmakers specifically stated that individual consumers are not the intended target of the criminal penalties when the products are not connected with commercialization, distribution or profit.
However, bringing a vape into Mexico can create an unnecessary problem at a port of entry, particularly because importation itself is among the activities prohibited by the law.
🚫 Don't Vape Just Anywhere
Mexico also has extensive smoke-free regulations. Smoking and vaping are restricted in many public areas, including places tourists commonly visit such as:
Beaches
Restaurants and terraces
Bars
Parks and public gathering areas
Hotels and other hospitality areas
Entertainment venues
Only use designated smoking areas where permitted.
🛳️ Cruise Passenger Tip
Going ashore in Mexico? Leave the vape in your cabin.
Don't assume that because you were allowed to bring it aboard your cruise ship that you're allowed to carry it into Mexico. Cruise-line rules and Mexican law are two different things.
For stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya, enjoy your day ashore without it and wait until you're back onboard to use your device only in your ship's designated smoking/vaping areas.
⚠️ DON'T RISK YOUR VACATION
A vape isn't worth having your device confiscated, being questioned by authorities, receiving a fine or potentially facing more serious legal consequences.
When in doubt—leave it on the ship!
The cruise-port complex itself offers shopping, restaurants, bars, pools and entertainment, making it an easy option for guests who would rather stay close to the ship. Mahahual is also only a short ride away.
Why cruisers love this port
- Ships dock directly at the pier—normally no tender required
- Plenty to do without traveling far
- Restaurants, bars and shopping right around the port
- Easy access to Mahahual
- Great beach-day possibilities
- Excellent snorkeling and diving
- Mayan ruins within excursion distance
- Options for both relaxing and adventurous travelers
JoJo's Tip: Costa Maya is one of those ports where you can have a fantastic day without overplanning. Pick one main experience, leave yourself plenty of time and enjoy Mexico!
One thing that makes Costa Maya different from many Caribbean cruise ports is how much there is to do without ever leaving the port complex.
Puerto Costa Maya was designed specifically with cruise guests in mind, so you'll find pools, restaurants, bars, shopping, entertainment, wildlife encounters and activities all within walking distance of your ship.
If you want an easy, no-stress port day, you could absolutely stay right here.
Just keep in mind that when several ships are visiting at the same time, the port can become very crowded, especially around the pool and main shopping areas.
Some activities can be reserved through your cruise line, while others can be purchased once you're ashore. If there's something you definitely don't want to miss, booking ahead is usually the safer choice.
Want to do something a little different without traveling away from the ship?
Aviarius is a multi-level aviary built above portions of the Costa Maya shopping village.
You'll walk through tropical bird habitats while crossing:
- Suspension bridges
- Elevated walkways
- Viewing platforms
- Different bird enclosures
You enter through one tower and make your way above the port before eventually exiting from another.
It's a fun option for families, animal lovers and anyone looking for a shorter activity that doesn't take up the entire port day.
Tickets may be available directly at the attraction, although availability can vary on busy cruise days.
Costa Maya has a dolphin encounter facility directly INSIDE the cruise-port complex.
Even if you don't participate in an interaction, you can sometimes watch the dolphins from surrounding walkways.
Paid experiences may include different levels of interaction depending on the package selected.
Animal encounters are a personal choice, so I recommend researching the experience beforehand and deciding what feels right for you and your family.
For guests who do choose to participate, the convenience is hard to beat—you don't have to travel far from the ship.
Want a pool day without paying for an excursion?
One of the biggest attractions inside the Costa Maya port is the large complimentary pool area surrounded by restaurants, bars, loungers and entertainment.
You'll also find a swim-up bar, making this a popular spot for adults who want to relax with a drink while still staying close to the ship.
Why it's popular:
- No transportation required
- No traditional excursion necessary
- Pool access
- Swim-up bar
- Nearby restaurants
- Shopping within walking distance
- Easy return to the ship
The downside?
It can get BUSY.
On days when multiple ships are docked, you'll want to head here earlier if getting a good spot matters to you.
You'll also find sandy areas with beach-style loungers overlooking the Caribbean.
It's a great way to enjoy the tropical atmosphere without leaving the cruise terminal.
However, there's one important thing to know:
This is NOT a traditional swimming beach.
Because of the rocky shoreline and breakwater around the pier, you generally cannot walk directly into the ocean and swim from these areas.
If swimming in the Caribbean is your priority, head into Mahahual or book a beach excursion instead.
You may also be expected to purchase food or drinks if you're using loungers associated with a particular restaurant or bar.
Keep your camera ready!
The Costa Maya port is known for its resident flamingos, along with other animals throughout the property.
You'll often spot them while walking through the port village.
It's a small attraction compared with the major excursions, but especially for kids—and anyone who loves a great vacation photo—it can be a fun surprise.
If shopping is part of your perfect port day, you won't have to look far.
The Costa Maya cruise port is packed with stores, souvenir shops and market-style vendors.
You may find:
- Clothing
- Jewelry
- Mexican handicrafts
- Beachwear
- Souvenirs
- Artwork
- Leather goods
- Tequila
- Chocolate
- Vanilla
- Snacks and sweets
You'll also see tourist experiences such as:
- Massages
- Mud treatments
- Chocolate tastings
- Tequila tastings
- Souvenir photos
Prices inside the cruise terminal are generally aimed at tourists, so don't automatically assume you're getting the best price.
In some independent shops, friendly and respectful negotiating may be acceptable.
A smile goes a long way.
You definitely won't go hungry if you stay inside the port.
Restaurants and bars are scattered throughout the Costa Maya complex, especially around the pool and main shopping areas.
Expect options such as:
- Tacos
- Nachos
- Quesadillas
- Guacamole
- Mexican-inspired dishes
- Burgers and familiar favorites
- Frozen cocktails
- Margaritas
- Mexican beer
- Quick snacks
Because you're eating inside a major cruise terminal, prices may be higher than what you'll find farther into Mahahual.
Think cruise-port pricing rather than local-Mexico pricing.
Looking for something easy and fun without committing several hours to an excursion?
You may find opportunities for tequila, chocolate and other Mexican tastings throughout the port complex.
These can be a fun way to experience a little local flavor while staying close to the ship.
Just remember:
A tequila tasting can become a tequila drinking session very quickly!
Stay hydrated, eat something and keep track of how much you're actually being served.
You'll often see massages and other relaxation treatments offered around the Costa Maya port and along the beach in Mahahual.
If your vacation philosophy is:
"Excursions are nice, but I'd rather get a massage and drink a margarita."
Costa Maya can absolutely accommodate that! Beachside massages in Mahahual can often be found for around $25 USD per hour, making it an affordable way to add a little relaxation to your port day.
Always confirm the price and length of the treatment before agreeing, as prices can vary by location and demand—and don't be afraid to say “No, gracias” if you're not interested.
There's really no wrong answer—it depends on the type of day you want.
Stay inside the port if you want:
- An easy day
- No transportation
- Pool time
- Shopping
- Restaurants and drinks
- Short activities
- Easy access back to the ship
- Minimal planning
Leave the port if you want:
- A real beach
- Mahahual
- More local restaurants
- Mayan ruins
- Bacalar Lagoon
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- ATV adventures
- A less commercialized experience
The Costa Maya cruise terminal is fun and incredibly convenient, especially if you don't want a scheduled excursion.
But don't automatically assume the cruise port is Costa Maya.
If this is your first visit and you have enough time, consider spending at least part of your day outside the gates.
Even something as simple as heading into Mahahual for lunch and a few hours on the beach can give you a completely different experience.
Want easy?
Stay in the port.
Want local beach vibes?
Head to Mahahual.
Want history?
Visit Chacchoben.
Want scenery?
Go to Bacalar.
Want adventure?
Snorkel, scuba, zipline or take an ATV excursion.
That's what makes Costa Maya such a great cruise stop—you can make the day as relaxing or adventurous as you want it to be.
If you want to experience more than the cruise terminal, Mahahual is my top easy recommendation.
This small Caribbean beach town sits less than two miles from the cruise terminal and is generally only a short taxi ride away. Its beachfront Malecón is lined with restaurants, beach clubs, bars, shops and places to grab a massage or simply enjoy the water.
Perfect for:
- Beach lovers
- Couples
- Families
- Foodies
- Casual shopping
- Margaritas by the water
- Anyone wanting an easy, relaxing port day
Many beach clubs offer loungers, shade, food and drinks. Ask whether there is a day-pass charge or minimum food-and-beverage spend before sitting down.
Want some history with your Caribbean vacation?
Chacchoben is one of Costa Maya's signature shore excursions and one of the area's most popular archaeological sites. The journey takes you inland through tropical scenery before arriving at impressive Mayan temples and ceremonial structures.
A guided tour is especially worthwhile because you'll learn about:
- Ancient Mayan civilization
- Ceremonial temples
- Architecture
- Astronomy
- Local history
- Jungle wildlife
This is a great choice for anyone who wants to experience something uniquely Mexican rather than spending another port day at the beach.
Often called the Lagoon of Seven Colors, Bacalar is famous for its brilliant shades of blue.
Excursions may include:
- Boat rides
- Swimming
- Lagoon sightseeing
- Cenotes
- Lunch
- Visits to historic areas
- Chacchoben + Bacalar combination tours
Bacalar excursions commonly take several hours, so this is one of those days when I strongly recommend paying attention to your ship's schedule. Current excursion offerings commonly run around 5–7 hours.
Costa Maya sits beside the incredible Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, making snorkeling and scuba diving major attractions around Mahahual.
Depending on your excursion, you may encounter:
- Tropical fish
- Coral formations
- Rays
- Sea turtles
- Other Caribbean marine life
Remember that wildlife is never guaranteed—and that's part of what makes seeing it so special.
Costa Maya is full of fresh seafood, bold Yucatecan flavors and traditional Maya-inspired dishes. Skip the ordinary and try something local—you may just discover a new favorite!
Salbutes are a popular Yucatecan street food made with soft, lightly fried corn tortillas that puff up as they cook. They’re typically topped with shredded chicken or turkey, lettuce, tomato, avocado and pickled red onions.
Light, crispy and packed with fresh flavors, they’re a great choice for a quick and authentic taste of the Yucatán.
Relleno Negro is a traditional Maya-Yucatecan specialty made with turkey or chicken simmered in a rich, dark broth seasoned with roasted chiles and spices. Its distinctive almost-black color comes from the deeply charred chile mixture, giving the dish a smoky, savory flavor with a little heat.
It’s a great choice if you want to skip the typical tourist fare and try something with authentic Yucatán roots.
Queso Relleno is a unique Yucatecan specialty made with Edam cheese stuffed with seasoned ground meat, spices, olives and other savory ingredients, then served with a creamy white sauce and often a tomato-based sauce.
The combination of salty cheese, savory filling and rich sauce makes this one of the region’s most distinctive comfort foods—and definitely worth trying if you spot it on the menu.
Ceviche is a refreshing coastal favorite made with fresh fish, shrimp or conch marinated in lime juice and mixed with tomato, onion, cilantro and chile.
Served chilled, often with tortilla chips or tostadas, it’s light, citrusy and perfect for a hot Caribbean day in Costa Maya.
A flavorful coastal Mayan specialty, Tikin Xic (teeken-sheek) features fresh fish—often grouper or snapper—marinated in achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over hot coals.
The result is smoky, citrusy and full of traditional Yucatán flavor—an excellent choice for seafood lovers looking to try something regional.
Depending on the restaurant, watch for:
- Quesadillas
- Enchiladas
- Empanadas
- Fajitas
- Tamales
- Fresh salsa
- Rice and beans
- Mexican street-style dishes
Don't be afraid to ask:
"What do the locals order?"
Sometimes that leads to the best meal of the entire cruise.
Slow-Roasted Cochinita Pibil
Savory Grilled Octopus (Pulpo)
Warm Sopa de Lima
Classic lime, frozen, flavored—or maybe one of each.
Popular choices may include:
Modelo • Pacifico • Dos Equis • Corona
If you're interested in trying tequila or mezcal, look for a proper tasting instead of automatically doing shots.
Xtabentún is a traditional Yucatecan liqueur with Maya roots, made from honey produced from the nectar of the xtabentún flower and flavored with anise. Sweet, aromatic and distinctive, it’s commonly enjoyed straight, chilled or as an after-dinner drink.
If you spot it during a tasting in Costa Maya, it’s a fun way to sample a flavor unique to the Yucatán Peninsula.
A great non-alcoholic option made with fresh fruit, water and sometimes herbs or flowers.
Drink responsibly. Tropical heat, sunshine and alcohol can sneak up on you quickly.
As you would anywhere:
- Watch your drink being prepared
- Never leave it unattended
- Don't accept opened drinks from strangers
- Pace yourself in the heat
- Stay with your group
- Know how you're getting back to the ship
Remember that a tropical all-inclusive drink package ashore doesn't mean you need to test its limits!
When eating ashore, stick with reputable restaurants, beach clubs and excursion partners.
A few things to remember:
- Choose sealed bottled water when you're unsure of the source.
- Make sure bottles arrive sealed.
- Ask about the ice if you're unsure how it was made.
- Wash or sanitize your hands before eating.
- Tipping around 10–15% is customary for good service; check your bill first to see if gratuity was already included.
- Try some mole! One of Mexico's most iconic traditional dishes, mole is a rich, flavorful sauce made with a blend of chiles, spices and other ingredients.
And don't forget to drink plenty of plain water throughout the day, especially when enjoying margaritas, tequila or other alcoholic drinks in the Caribbean heat.
The cruise port and Mahahual are close, but always establish the taxi price before getting into the vehicle.
Independent transportation pricing can vary depending upon demand and the number of ships visiting.
Before leaving, ask:
"Is that the total price?"
and
"Is that one-way or round-trip?"
Do not assume.
Keep smaller bills available when possible.
There truly is something here for almost everyone.
Ideal for history and culture lovers.
Great if your goal is to relax without constantly reaching for your wallet.
Explore one of the world's great reef systems.
A fantastic option for certified divers.
Enjoy the Caribbean water while exploring the coast or reef.
Head off-road for a more active Costa Maya experience.
May include ATVs, ziplining or cultural experiences depending on the tour.
Cooking classes, tastings and traditional meals can be a fun alternative to another beach excursion.
Mahahual is well known among cruise visitors for affordable beachfront massages.
The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken throughout the Costa Maya cruise port, Mahahual, beach clubs, restaurants and excursion areas. A friendly “Hola,” “Gracias,” or “No, gracias” is always appreciated!
💵 Money Tips
The official currency is the Mexican peso (MXN), although U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
- Bring small U.S. bills for taxis, tips and vendors.
- Credit cards are accepted at many established businesses.
- Confirm whether prices are quoted in USD or pesos before paying.
- Change may be given in pesos.
- If an ATM or card terminal offers to convert your purchase to USD, paying in pesos (MXN) will often provide a better exchange rate through your bank.
💡 JoJo's Tip: Small USD bills + a credit card with no foreign transaction fees are usually all you'll need for an easy Costa Maya port day.
You may find:
- Mexican handicrafts
- Jewelry
- Clothing
- Tequila
- Vanilla
- Artwork
- Leather goods
- Pottery
- Beachwear
Negotiating may be acceptable in certain markets and independent shops—but be friendly about it.
A smile and a simple:
"No, gracias."
works perfectly when you're not interested.
Never feel pressured into buying something just because a vendor spent time showing it to you.
Costa Maya is a heavily visited cruise destination, but you should still use normal travel awareness.
The U.S. Department of State currently classifies Quintana Roo as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to terrorism and crime and advises travelers to remain especially aware of their surroundings after dark and stay in well-lit tourist areas.
For a daytime cruise visit, simple common-sense precautions go a long way.
Watch out for:
- Unofficial transportation
- Vendors quoting unclear prices
- Overpriced souvenirs
- Being served drinks stronger than expected
- Leaving bags unattended
- Walking around while visibly carrying large amounts of cash
- Wandering far from tourist areas alone
- Waiting until the last minute to return to the ship
Costa Maya's coastline is environmentally sensitive and sits beside an extraordinary reef ecosystem.
When snorkeling or swimming:
- Don't stand on coral
- Don't touch coral
- Don't chase sea turtles
- Don't feed marine animals
- Don't remove shells or marine life
- Choose reef-conscious sunscreen when possible
- Dispose of trash properly
Mahahual's reefs and coastal ecosystems have recently been at the center of significant environmental conservation concerns, which makes responsible tourism especially important.
Take pictures.
Leave the reef.
Depending on the season, sargassum seaweed can occasionally affect beaches along Mexico's Caribbean coastline, including Mahahual.
Some days the beaches can be beautiful and clear.
Other days currents may bring more seaweed ashore.
Conditions can change quickly, so don't judge your entire Costa Maya day by one photo you saw online weeks before your sailing.
If beach conditions aren't ideal, consider:
- Chacchoben
- Bacalar
- Port activities
- A pool day
- Shopping
- Food and tequila experiences
A backup plan is always a good cruise plan.
- DO check your all-aboard time before leaving the ship.
- DO bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- DO stay hydrated.
- DO carry small bills.
- DO confirm taxi prices before getting in.
- DO ask whether beach clubs have a minimum spend.
- DO try authentic Mexican food.
- DO explore Mahahual if you want something beyond the port.
- DO protect the reef and marine life.
- DO keep your belongings where you can see them.
- DO leave yourself plenty of time to return to the ship.
- DO say "No, gracias" when you're not interested in a sale.
- DON'T bring a vape ashore.
- DON'T bring recreational drugs ashore.
- DON'T forget your ship card.
- DON'T assume your phone shows ship time.
- DON'T wait until all-aboard time to start returning.
- DON'T get into transportation without knowing the price.
- DON'T flash large amounts of cash.
- DON'T leave drinks unattended.
- DON'T touch or stand on coral.
- DON'T remove marine life or archaeological objects.
- DON'T assume every beach chair is complimentary.
- DON'T let aggressive vendors make you feel obligated to buy.
- DON'T forget that you're visiting another country and its laws apply.
For most Costa Maya days, I recommend:
- Ship card
- Photo ID if required by your cruise line
- Small amount of cash
- Credit card
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Refillable water bottle
- Swimsuit
- Beach cover-up
- Towel if your cruise line permits taking one ashore
- Water shoes if your excursion calls for them
- Bug spray for jungle or ruin excursions
- Portable phone charger
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Any essential medication
And perhaps most importantly:
Your ship's all-aboard time!
🏖️ "Just give me a beach and a cocktail."
Mahahual Beach Club
🗿 "I want to see something I'll remember forever."
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
💙 "Take me somewhere ridiculously beautiful."
Bacalar Lagoon
🤿 "Put me in the water!"
Reef Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
🍹 "I'm officially on vacation."
All-Inclusive Beach Break
😎 "I don't want schedules."
Explore the Costa Maya Port + Mahahual
If this is your first visit to Costa Maya, I'd choose between two experiences:
🗿 Chacchoben
if you want history, culture and something completely different from your other Caribbean ports.
OR
🏖️ Mahahual
if your perfect vacation day involves warm Caribbean water, Mexican food, cold drinks and absolutely no reason to rush.
And if you have enough port time and want a bigger adventure, Chacchoben + Bacalar can give you a fantastic mix of history and scenery.
Costa Maya can be exactly what you want it to be—ancient ruins, turquoise water, tacos, snorkeling, beach chairs, margaritas or a little bit of everything.
Choose the experience that fits your vacation style, respect the local community and environment, keep an eye on ship time and enjoy your day in beautiful Mexico.
Adventure a little. Relax a lot. And make some amazing cruise memories!
DreamCrafters Travels
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