Do you have a cruise port day scheduled for Costa Maya? You’re in luck! There are so many ways to enjoy a fun port day in Costa Maya (Mahahual, Mexico). First, here are a few things you might want to know about the port of Costa Maya.
Costa Maya is NOT a town in Mexico, it’s simply the name given to the cruise port developed by the cruise industry. The local town is called Mahahual, Mexico. It was an old fishing village until tourism came to town.
The port has a long pier where 3 ships can dock at the same time. No tendering is necessary!
Depending on the position of your ship, you could have quite a walk down the pier to the port area. If you are meeting your tour or transportation leave yourself plenty of time. My suggestion is to give yourself about 30 minutes. No, it will probably not take you that long to walk but…the port can be rather congested at times and it’s better to be safe than sorry. You also may want to stop for that Instagram-worthy shot along the way.
If you enjoy staying close to the ship, there are a number of things to do right in the developed port area including shops, eateries, spa services, and even a pool! But, more on this as we dive into the post.
In this post, I’ll share with you 10 options for a great cruise port day in Costa Maya.
If staying close to the port is important to you, you have several options.
Hang out at the pool – Purchase a drink at the bar and then enjoy your lounge chair by the pool. Tip: arrive early. The port area is much busier and more crowded mid-day to the afternoon as people return from their tours.
Check out the Aviary – Entrance to the aviary grants you access to interact with a number of exotic featured friends. Connected by suspended bridges, a tour of the aviary also provides great views of the port area.
Explore the shops or grab some Mexican treats including street tacos, tequila, chocolate and a variety of Mayan souvenirs. You can purchase a “port pass” which includes Kakow, a demonstration of the importance of cacao to the Mayan people, a tequila exhibit and tasting, as well as the aviary.
Maya Healing Rituals – Located right in the port, the Mayan Healing Rituals offers a relaxing as well as a cultural experience.
Make new friends at the Dolphin encounter located right in the port area. I personally struggle with animal tourism but I do feel like there are some educational benefits. Our daughter was hugely impacted by our manatee experience in Cozumel a few years ago.
Explore a little further for a grand adventure
Mayan Lost Kingdom water park – fly down water slides, zipline over the canopy or float in the lazy river. Thrill-seekers unite at this splash-filled fun day. Check out current pricing options here.
Mayan Ruins – Book a tour and explore the Chacchoben Ruins approximately an hour from the cruise port. We booked this tour through the cruise line. We traveled the easy hour in an air-conditioned coach bus with our tour guide on board. She was very friendly and informative and because we selected the morning tour, we finished up before the intense heat of the afternoon. If you’re interested in visiting the ruins you can check out my full post.
Looking to relax on the beach during your cruise port day in Costa Maya?
If you favor a tan over adventure you have just as many great options.
Mahahual Beach – If you’re looking for a short and inexpensive cab ride to the beach and a great pay-as-you-go option, check out Mahahual Beach. It has a local feel and offers plenty of food & beverage options as well as local shopping. Be sure and check out Tropicante or the Krazy Lobster.
Related post: Mahahual Boardwalk
Yaya Beach Club & Plaza or Ibiza Sunset both offer all-inclusive options and extras such as massages on the beach!
A cruiser favorite, the all-inclusive Maya Chan Beach – If you are in the mood for amazing service and an all-inclusive day, I highly recommend Maya Chan Beach. This family-owned resort for a day caters to cruise ship passengers and the service is truly incredible. If you always want to know more (like me), check out the book, It Helps to be Crazy: The Story of Maya Chan Beach. (Amazon link)
Are you excited about your Cruise Port Day in Costa Maya?
Let me know in the comments below what option sounds most exciting to your family!
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Happy Travels!
Jillian
