What to Do in Costa Maya Mexico When You're on a Cruise

Table Of Content

• Tourist info and language
• New $5 tax proposed for all cruise tourists visiting Mexico’s Quintana Roo
• Fun Activities at Costa Maya Cruise Port
• Beaches and beach club day passes
• Consider This if You’re Planning a Cruise to Cuba
• Explore downtown Bacalar
• Where is Costa Maya, Mexico?
• CRUISES FROM SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE

Walking from your ship, the pier goes directly to the port area. The port feels much like a theme park in that it’s designed like a caricature of a Mexican village. If you are looking for authentic, this is not the place for you. However, if you want an easy and comfortable way to spend the day, then the port is perfect.

Tourist info and language

Located about two hours and 20 minutes from the port, the journey to Calakmul is well worth the chance to explore the impressive ruins of this once-mighty city. La Fruteria is a must-visit for those looking for a refreshing and healthy drinking experience. This swim-up bar specializes in fresh fruit cocktails, offering various delicious options with locally sourced fruits. Sip on a tropical delight while enjoying the pristine waters of Costa Maya. For those seeking a bit more adventure, Yaya Beach also offers a range of activities to keep you entertained. You can try stand-up paddleboarding, explore the underwater world with SCUBA diving, or indulge in a soothing massage by the shore.

I cruised to a tiny town in Mexico you've probably never heard of, and it was the highlight of my cruise vacation - Royal Caribbean Blog

I cruised to a tiny town in Mexico you've probably never heard of, and it was the highlight of my cruise vacation.

Posted: Mon, 06 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

New $5 tax proposed for all cruise tourists visiting Mexico’s Quintana Roo

And while nothing compares to the fun you’ll have at the major shopping district in Cozumel, it’s still pleasant to walk around Costa Maya and enjoy what it has to offer. Take a dip in the sparkling blue waters of Cenote Azul, an open freshwater cenote known for prime snorkeling and swimming. There are plenty of things close to the port such as shops, dolphin encounters, and beaches. Cruise lines have resumed operations to Costa May, Mexico including Carnival Cruise Line which offers more itineraries to the port than most others. This is also a great opportunity for kids to have something fun to do while close to the cruise ship.

Fun Activities at Costa Maya Cruise Port

Be aware that although most vendors accept US dollars, they may give you change in pesos. So, it’s always worth checking beforehand what type of change you’ll get. Here are other excursions you can plan while spending the day in the Bacalar Lagoon area. Seeing them gracefully gliding through the air while performing acrobatic moves is mesmerizing. This incredible display of skill and agility takes place in the central square of the port and is a must-see attraction for all visitors. So please read on to learn how to plan your time in the beautiful port city of Costa Maya.

Beaches and beach club day passes

You can use US dollars throughout your stay in Costa Maya, even though the Mexican Peso (MXN) is the local currency. Therefore, always check if the listed prices are MXN (sometimes, MX or Mex$) or US dollars. Spanish is the official language of Mexico and the primary language spoken in Costa Maya.

Consider This if You’re Planning a Cruise to Cuba

It’s a good idea to double check pricing when making a purchase in US dollars, as well as to check the change that you’re receiving. You’ll find the beach and town quiet, peaceful and pretty much undeveloped. Enter the whitewashed breezeway at 40 Cañones and walk towards the beach. Tell whomever is driving that you want to go to 40 Canons Hotel or in Spanish, simply, Cuarenta Cañones. It’s a minute ride until you reach the last stop at the end of the road.

Explore downtown Bacalar

Unfortunately, in 2007 and 2012, two hurricanes devastated Costa Maya, and these buildings are still waiting for restoration. Cruise passengers booked with online tour operators will meet their guides along this street outside the gated area of the cruise terminal. The Dolphin Discovery, with pools where shows and swimming with the aquatic mammals are the main features, is among the top attractions in the Costa Maya cruise terminal. But you should be prepared for a bit of a wait if four mega-ships are in port, which only seldom happens. The pier trolley must not be confused with the shuttle , which runs between the cruise terminal and Mahahual.

Where is Costa Maya, Mexico?

Costa Maya port (Puerto Costa Maya) is Mexico’s second-largest cruise port after Cozumel. It is located about 10 minutes ride from the small fishing village of Mahahual, and around 290 km (180 miles) south of Playa del Carmen and the island of Cozumel. Port Santa Cruz de Tenerife cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link. Whether you’re a history geek or a water-loving explorer, Costa Maya has the activities to charm you into visiting it again and again.

CRUISES FROM SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE

This free saltwater swimming pool is bordered by pool bars, loungers, and attractive palapa thatched shades. It’s easy to enjoy the entire day in the pool area without spending much money. There’s plenty to do at Costa Maya Cruise Port without venturing too far. The custom-built port area has free swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and a dolphin marine center.

Although I did love the original ports, I was excited to check out a new-to-us port of call, Costa Maya. I had heard some great things about the Puerto Costa Maya cruise port and looked forward to seeing it for myself. You can’t “cut” through behind the stairs anymore to the taxi and transportation area. Now you have to walk past a zillion shops and snack bars until you come to the beautiful pink flamingoes. Here’s how to do exactly that, save a bundle of cash and have one of the best port days ever. Situated along the turquoise-colored Caribbean Sea, Puerto Costa Maya (Costa Maya cruise port) and its nearby towns rest between the sea and the deep jungle.

Apart from the magnificent ruins, the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. With lush greenery, colorful birds, and mesmerizing wildlife, it’s an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the region’s natural beauty. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the towering pyramids and well-preserved structures that make up the Calakmul archaeological site.

You can take advantage of this opportunity to delve into the ancient Mayan world and witness the grandeur of the Nohoch Mul pyramid. Once you arrive at Kohunlich, be prepared to be amazed by the grandeur of these Mayan ruins. The site features many well-preserved structures, including temples, palaces, ball courts, and residential complexes. One of the standout features is the Temple of the Large Masks, which showcases intricately carved stone masks that depict Mayan deities. A hidden gem, the Chacchoben Ruins provide a less crowded alternative to the popular Chichen Itza. This ancient site showcases the impressive architectural achievements of the Mayan people, with towering pyramids, intricately carved walls, and majestic staircases.

It is an ideal spot for those seeking adventure, history, and relaxation. Costa Maya offers something for everyone, from its vibrant nightlife to its unique archaeological sites. The Kohunlich Ruins are undoubtedly one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Costa Maya region. Located over 100 miles from the cruise port, these ruins offer history enthusiasts a unique and immersive experience. Dolphin Discovery & Encounters in Costa Maya provides an incredible opportunity to interact with these amazing marine animals. Located just steps from the cruise port, Dolphin Discovery offers visitors a convenient and unforgettable experience.

Having one place that is up to date on cruise ships will make trip planning and the experiences worth it. Unfortunately, that was a much too positive estimate and it took Costa Maya longer to rebuild its port and city. When the first cruise ships started to come back, the economy was being devastated by the housing market crash and tourism dropped. You can spend the entire day moving from one attraction to another. Besides taking a plunge in the pools, you can also have fun at the bars and restaurants. You can enjoy some of your favorite local dishes or drinks during your excursion.

While it started as a small fishing village, it’s now a tourist attraction offering plenty of activities to enjoy. If you love water activities, paddle boarding is an exciting activity to try out. Puerto Costa Maya is a popular destination, making it one of the busiest cruise ports in Mexico.