Making the most of Costa Maya
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Costa Maya was the first Western Caribbean harbour created solely for cruise ships and occupies a strategic position only hours from Cancun on Mexico's southern Yucatan Peninsula. Styled like an ancient Mayan city, it can receive four vessels simultaneously, including Oasis- and Epic-sized ships. The destination combines modern conveniences with displays of the Mexican Caribbean's ancient and colonial heritage.
A complimentary trolley carries passengers between the ship and terminal. The pier is lengthy for anyone with walking difficulties or travelling with young children.
Vessels berth beside Costa Maya's purpose-built complex. The pier-side village has several complimentary pools, including a huge one with a swim-up bar, as well as restaurants, bars, shops and a small rocky beach with hammocks.
Mahahual's town centre is approximately 2 to 3 miles (3 to 5 kilometres) from Costa Maya cruise terminal. Visitors can make the brief journey by taxi or enjoy the walk on foot.
The kiosk immediately outside the terminal takes bookings for excursions, taxis or golf carts by the hour, and several beach packages.
A taxi to Majahual costs about 8 US$.
Mahahual, also called Majahual, remains small but is becoming increasingly busy as more visitors discover Costa Maya. Around 600 people live in this relaxed village.
Following the hurricane of 2007, a 1.5-mile beach promenade lined with restaurants and shops was constructed.
Getting around
Costa Maya is celebrated for attractive beaches; remember to carry insect repellent.
Nearby places
Visiting the Mayan ruins is among the port's best excursions. Chacchoban, the nearest site, is a little over an hour away, while Kohunlich is slightly farther.
Xcabal, described as the largest Mayan archaeological site, opened in 2017 just over an hour by bus from the harbour. For about two years, access will be restricted to organised shore trips from cruise vessels.
Divers should consider Chinchorro Reef Underwater National Park, less than an hour away.
Food and shopping
Costa Maya's port contains many shops but can feel like a tourist trap. Outside the gates, a $3 shuttle reaches Mahahual, where brightly coloured pottery, Mexican blankets, jewellery and other goods are sold.
Money
Mexico's currency is the peso (MXN), whose symbol matches the US dollar sign and can cause confusion. Dollar prices in tourist districts use "US$" or an S with two strokes. The approximate exchange is 17 peso to 1US$.
US dollars are readily accepted across the far north and in visitor areas elsewhere.
Compared with Europe or the USA, credit-card acceptance is more limited. Some businesses add around 5% to card payments.
Staying connected
Spanish is the primary language. English is widely spoken in tourist destinations and cities bordering the United States.
There is no mobile-phone signal.
Opening Hours and
Typical hours are Mon-Sun 1000/1100-2000/2200 in large towns and cities, and Mon-Fri 0900-1400/1600 elsewhere in the country.