Top Things to do in Costa Maya Mexico and 1-Day Itinerary
Costa Maya Mexico is a popular cruise port destination in the Caribbean. I’ve visited Costa Maya Mexico twice recently, one two separate Western Caribbean cruises. During these trips, I explored the best things to do in Costa Maya Mexico. Now, I can share the perfect one day itinerary to see the top sites and not waste your time on the tourist traps.
Unlike some of the other destinations on a Caribbean cruise, Costa Maya is almost exclusively a cruise destination. Other travelers don’t visit Costa Maya often because it is remote and there aren’t a ton of things to do.
That said, it’s a great port destination with a couple great activities to fill your day. While many people choose to stay on board during this port, I encourage you to get off for at least a half day.
During this time, you can explore the Mahahual Port or Chacchoben ruins, described below.
Alternatively, you can take a day trip to the popular tourist town of Bacalar, which sits on a beautiful lake with great swimming and cenotes.
Keep reading to learn the best things to do in Costa Maya Mexico in one day.
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My Top 3 Picks: What to do in Costa Maya Cruise Port
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chacchoben Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Excursion
✅ Experience the top two things to do in Puerto Costa Maya
✅ Includes lunch and drinks
Best Things to do in Costa Maya Mexico
1. Chacchoben Ruins and Bacalar Combo Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!
The top two excursions in Costa Maya are to the Chacchoben Ruins and to Bacalar Lagoon. With only one day at the cruise port, I highly recommend this combo tour that hits these two destinations.
The Chacchoben ruins are an archaeological site located near Costa Maya. The ruins date back to around 250 BC and are home to several ancient Maya temples, including a pyramid that stands nearly thirty feet tall.
The Bacalar Lagoon is a stunning bright blue lake, surrounded by lush jungle and mangrove forests. The lagoon is super scenic and great for swimming, with crystal clear waters and deep cenotes.
This tour includes round trip transportation, a tour of the ruins, a boat ride on the lagoon and lunch with drinks. The price is also very reasonable for all that is included, and will be much more affordable than equivalent tours through the cruise line.
“Octavio (the tour guide) was AMAZING!!! He Made the trip!! This was hands down the best excursion we have even booked.” -Anthony S (Read more reviews)
2. Chacchoben Ruins Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: hours | ✅ Book it!
One of my top recommendations for what to do in Costa Maya is a tour to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins.
The Chacchoben ruins are a historic sight from the Mayan empire that covered the Yucatan peninsula from 250 BC to 900 AD. The ruins include pyramids that represent spiritual sites and the city center.
From the Port of Costa Maya, the ruins are a one-hour drive inland. Tours often include two hours of exploring the ruins with the opportunity to climb one of the pyramids, learn about the history, and shop a local craft market.
While it is possible to visit the ruins on your own, I highly recommend a tour to simplify transportation and allow you to learn about the history of the ruins and Mayan civilization.
This tour includes port pick and drop off, entry into the ruins, and a local English-speaking guide. It’s less expensive than the same tour booked through the ship and includes a guarantee that you will return on time.
“Was very good! The guide was amazing, the ruins are wonderful. Great experience, will definitely go again” -Aleksandra (Read more reviews)
3. Bacalar and the Seven Colors Lagoon
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!
Bacalar is the next big Mexico tourist destination, and it’s only an hour away from the Costa Maya port. Bacalar is a small resort town with a large, beautiful blue lake.
I took this tour on my second trip to Costa Maya and it was a highlight of the entire cruise vacation. The lake is perfect for exploring underwater cenotes and swimming in the clear water.
The tour includes transportation to and from the cruise port, a boat tour of the lake that visits two cenotes and other popular sites, and a local lunch.
This Costa Maya excursion is a great option if you are hoping to explore the area, but also get some relaxation in.
“This was by far one of my favorite excursions! Gabby did such an amazing job telling us the history and making this trip memorable. The lagoon is magical and something you don’t want to miss! ” -Amber G (Read more reviews)
4. All Inclusive Beach Day
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-5hours | ✅ Book it!
Sometimes on a cruise vacation, all you need is time to kick back on a beach. If that’s how you’re feeling, this all inclusive beach is a great option.
This tour includes roundtrip transportation to and from the port to a beach around 30 minutes away. Each group gets a private van, so you don’t have to wait for other groups.
At the beach, you will be treated to a local lunch with fresh foods such as snapper, ceviche, and guacamole. Drinks are also included.
“This place was fantastic!! Paradise and away from all the crowds. We had a wonderful day with wonderful host.” -Julie C (Read more reviews)
5. Mahahual Port
If you prefer a more relaxing excursion, you can actually spend an entire day exploring the Costa Maya cruise port itself.
The Mahahual Port at Costa Maya is the most established port I have ever visited. It reminds me of an all-inclusive resort or small tourist town.
At the port, you can spend a day at the pool with a swim up bar, shopping the local and duty-free shops, tasting tequila, and trying authentic Mexican food.
There is also a Mayan healing ritual you can experience that includes a spa-like experience mixed with traditional spiritual practice.
Quick Facts about Costa Maya
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Costa Maya is from November to May when average daily temperatures are around 80 degrees. Avoid late summer and early fall, which is hurricane / rainy season.
How Long to Visit: Costa Maya is a popular cruise port and one day is enough time to explore everything in town. I don’t recommend spending long in Costa Maya unless you simply want extra pool/ beach time.
Currency: The official currency in Costa Maya is the Mexican peso. However, American dollars are accepted everywhere. The exchange rate when I’m writing this is 1 dollar equals 20 pesos.
Language: The official language in Costa Maya is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in the tourist areas.
Safety: Costa Maya is a generally safe destination. As with any foreign country, keep minimal valuables on you, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid going out alone after dark.
FAQ – What to Do in Costa Maya Mexico
Costa Maya is a region in Mexico located on the Yucatan Peninsula, and it is south of Cancun. There are plenty of activities to choose from here, such as swimming, beach time, and even visiting ancient Mayan ruins.
Costa Maya is a safe destination for travelers, as long as sensible precautions are taken. The town of Majahual (where the Costa Maya port is located) generally has only minor crime issues such as pickpocketing. Additionally, the majority of people here are friendly and welcoming to tourists. Take simple steps like avoiding walking alone late at night and not flashing expensive items to stay safe.
🤩If you’re still wondering the best Costa Maya things to do, you cannot go wrong with this combo tour that hits the top two sights in the area – Bacalar and the Chacchoben ruins!
Book Now ➜
Summary of Things to Do in Puerta Costa Maya Mexico
Costa Maya is a great destination on a cruise itinerary. With its spectacular natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and unique cultural activities, a visit to Costa Maya offers something for every type of traveler.
Whether you are looking to explore the Chachoben ruins, bask in the beauty of the Bacalar lagoon, or just want to relax on a gorgeous beach, Costa Maya has it all.
So if you are looking for an amazing adventure in Mexico, be sure to put Costa Maya at the top of your must-visit list!
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