Your cruise ship has just docked at the cruise port of Costa Maya, Mexico, and a ribbon of turquoise coastline stretches out before you. Palm trees sway in the Caribbean breeze, beach bars beckon with margaritas, and the rhythm of reggae and Latin beats set the tone for the day. But beyond the postcard-perfect views lies a destination packed with authentic culture, nature, and adventure — especially if you know where to look.
For first-time cruisers, Costa Maya is often a pleasant surprise. It’s smaller and quieter than Cozumel or Nassau, yet it’s full of opportunities to experience real Mexico while still being convenient for a one-day shore excursion. Whether your goal is to relax, explore ancient ruins, or snorkel among colorful reefs, Costa Maya has something for every traveler stepping off a cruise ship for the first time.
Let’s dive into the top 10 must-do activities to make your stop in Costa Maya unforgettable.
1. Explore the Ruins of Chacchoben
If you want a mix of history and adventure, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins should be at the top of your list. Located about an hour from the cruise port, this ancient site dates back more than 1,000 years and offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Mayan civilization.
The temples and ceremonial structures are beautifully preserved, surrounded by lush jungle where you might spot monkeys or tropical birds. Guides share stories of Mayan rituals and architecture that make the ruins come alive.
For first-time cruisers, this shore excursion is a great way to experience something truly cultural without feeling rushed. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and don’t forget your camera — the views from the top of the main pyramid are incredible.
2. Relax in Mahahual Village
Just a 10-minute taxi ride from the cruise port, the small fishing village of Mahahual feels worlds away from the commercial bustle of the terminal. The beachfront promenade, known as the Malecon, is lined with open-air restaurants, beach clubs, and souvenir shops.
Here, you can rent a lounge chair, sip on fresh coconut water (or something stronger), and watch the waves roll in. Mahahual is ideal for travelers who want a slower pace and a taste of local life.
If you’re planning your cruise booking and love beach days, make sure your itinerary gives you enough time to spend a few hours here. The village is safe, walkable, and filled with friendly locals ready to make your first cruise vacation memory special.
3. Snorkel the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
The reef system off Costa Maya is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world — just behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling here means swimming among vibrant coral gardens, colorful fish, and sometimes even sea turtles or rays.
You can join a shore excursion directly from the port or book with a local operator in Mahahual. Many tours include boat rides to remote reef spots with crystal-clear water and calm conditions, perfect for beginners.
Pro Tip: If you prefer to stay close to shore, there’s excellent snorkeling right off the beach in Mahahual — just bring or rent gear from a beach club.
4. Spend the Day at a Beach Club
Costa Maya’s beach clubs are legendary among cruisers. They’re convenient, affordable, and offer everything you need for a relaxing beach day. Some popular options include Yaya Beach, Blue Kay, and Maya Chan Beach Resort — each with slightly different vibes, from lively party scenes to tranquil, all-inclusive escapes.
Most beach clubs offer lounge chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, and authentic Mexican food. You can even arrange massages or rent paddleboards.
Many clubs allow reservations ahead of your cruise booking, which guarantees a spot when multiple cruise ships are in port — a smart move for first-timers.
5. Take a Dip in the Lagoon of Seven Colors
If you want a peaceful and scenic shore excursion, consider visiting Bacalar Lagoon, also called the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” Located about 90 minutes from the port, this natural wonder is famous for its vivid shades of blue, which shift with the sunlight and depth.
You can swim, kayak, or take a pontoon boat tour around the lagoon, stopping at cenotes (natural sinkholes) and shallow sandbars. The area is dotted with eco-lodges and local restaurants serving fresh-caught fish and traditional Yucatán dishes.
Though it’s a longer drive, this excursion is worth it if you want to see one of Mexico’s most beautiful hidden gems.
6. Sample Local Cuisine
Mexican cuisine is a highlight of any cruise vacation, and Costa Maya delivers big flavors in a small town setting. Along Mahahual’s Malecon, you’ll find plenty of restaurants offering regional dishes like:
- Ceviche: Fresh fish or shrimp cured in lime juice with tomatoes, cilantro, and onions
- Tacos al pastor: Pork marinated in spices and pineapple, carved from a vertical spit
- Sopes and empanadas: Hearty snacks perfect for sharing
- Margaritas and micheladas: Refreshing local drinks to enjoy seaside
If you love food adventures, ask for recommendations from locals — they often point you to small family-run spots that aren’t on any tourist map.
7. Swim with Dolphins or Stingrays
For travelers looking for a wildlife-focused shore excursion, the Dolphin Discovery Costa Maya experience lets you swim and interact with dolphins in a controlled, ethical environment.
Alternatively, some local operators offer stingray encounters in shallow, crystal-clear waters just off Mahahual Beach. Both experiences are suitable for families and first-time cruisers and provide amazing photo opportunities.
When booking these tours, make sure the provider prioritizes animal welfare and small group sizes for a more personal experience.
8. Get a Beachfront Massage
If your perfect cruise vacation involves pure relaxation, a beachfront massage in Mahahual is hard to beat. Local massage therapists set up shaded cabanas along the Malecon, offering 30- to 60-minute sessions with the sound of the ocean in the background.
Prices are usually very reasonable (around $25–40 USD for an hour), and no advance booking is necessary. It’s the perfect way to unwind before returning to your cruise ship for the evening sail-away.
9. Shop for Local Handicrafts
Skip the mass-produced souvenirs at the port and head into Mahahual for authentic handmade crafts. You’ll find colorful hammocks, woven bags, beaded jewelry, and hand-carved wooden masks — all made by local artisans.
If you’re buying gifts, look for cooperatives that directly support artisans and indigenous communities. Not only will you take home a meaningful keepsake, but you’ll also help support the local economy — a wonderful way to make your cruise vacation more impactful.
10. Capture the Sunset (and One Last Drink)
As your time in Costa Maya comes to a close, make your way to one of the beachfront bars or piers for a final toast. The sunsets here are mesmerizing — the kind that paint the sky in pinks, oranges, and purples as your cruise ship glows in the distance.
Grab a cold drink, dip your toes in the sand, and reflect on a day that perfectly balanced adventure and relaxation. It’s these simple moments that first-time cruisers remember most.
Practical Tips for First-Time Cruisers Visiting Costa Maya
A few things can help you make the most of your stop:
- Currency: U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but small bills help avoid exchange issues.
- Transportation: Taxis are inexpensive and readily available at the cruise port.
- Timing: Be mindful of your ship’s all-aboard time — allow at least 45 minutes to return.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, insect repellent (for jungle tours), water shoes, and cash.
- Booking Excursions: Some of the best shore excursions can be arranged independently, but book through your cruise line if you prefer the security of guaranteed return times.
The Allure of Costa Maya
For many travelers, Costa Maya becomes the unexpected highlight of their cruise vacation. It’s authentic yet easy to explore, adventurous yet laid-back. Whether you’re wandering the ancient ruins, snorkeling the reef, or lounging under a palm tree with a mojito, the relaxed rhythm of Mahahual has a way of reminding you what vacation is all about.
So when your next cruise booking includes Costa Maya on the itinerary, don’t overlook it as “just another beach stop.” This friendly slice of Mexico is filled with culture, color, and connection — the kind of place that turns first-time cruisers into lifelong travelers.