Things to Do in Costa Maya, Mexico

Costa Maya is a hidden gem on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, known for its stunning beaches, rich Mayan history, and adventurous activities. Whether you’re visiting via cruise ship or planning a longer stay, here are some of the best things to do in Costa Maya!

1. Relax at Mahahual Beach

Mahahual is the heart of Costa Maya, offering soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Beach clubs line the shore, providing lounge chairs, cocktails, and fresh seafood. For a budget-friendly option, bring your towel and enjoy the public beach area.

2. Visit the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

History buffs will love exploring the Chacchoben Mayan ruins, located about an hour from Costa Maya. These ancient structures date back to 700 AD and offer a fascinating glimpse into Mayan civilization. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the site's history and significance.

3. Snorkel or Dive in the Mesoamerican Reef

Costa Maya is home to the world’s second-largest coral reef, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Explore vibrant marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish, at sites like Banco Chinchorro and the Great Maya Reef.

4. Explore the Costa Maya Port

If you’re arriving on a cruise, the port itself offers plenty to do. Enjoy shopping for local crafts, swimming in the saltwater pool, watching cultural performances, or even booking a fish pedicure!

5. Swim with Dolphins or Manatees

For a memorable experience, book a dolphin or manatee encounter at Dolphin Discovery. It’s a great way to interact with these amazing marine animals while learning about conservation efforts.

6. Try Local Cuisine and Tequila Tastings

No visit to Mexico is complete without indulging in authentic flavors. Enjoy fresh ceviche, tacos, and tropical cocktails at beachside restaurants. Many local spots also offer tequila tastings, where you can sample different varieties and learn about the distillation process.

7. Go on a Jungle ATV or Buggy Adventure

For thrill-seekers, an off-road ATV or buggy tour through the jungle is an exciting way to explore Costa Maya’s wild side. You’ll ride through dirt trails, spot local wildlife, and even discover hidden cenotes or Mayan ruins.

8. Relax in a Private Beach Club

For a more exclusive experience, consider spending the day at a private beach club like Maya Chan Beach or Blue Kay. These all-inclusive retreats offer beachfront cabanas, unlimited drinks, and delicious meals, making them perfect for a stress-free day in paradise.

9. Kayak or Paddleboard in the Lagoons

Costa Maya’s calm waters make it ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding. Explore the lagoons and mangroves while taking in the breathtaking natural surroundings. Some tours even include snorkeling stops!

10. Shop for Handmade Souvenirs

Support local artisans by shopping for handmade souvenirs like embroidered textiles, Mayan jewelry, and colorful pottery. The markets in Mahahual and the port area offer unique gifts to take home.

Final Thoughts

Costa Maya is a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Mahahual Beach, discovering ancient ruins, or diving into the vibrant marine world, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Have you visited Costa Maya? Share your favorite experiences in the comments! Here's a recap of our day in Costa Maya on a day our Carnival ship stopped in port.

Since they canceled Belize, I was SO not prepared for Costa Maya. All I knew was that it was a typical cruise port. Shops, restaurants, bars. We got off the boat and headed to a rooftop for for some Dos Equis to get us up and moving. We were not sure what to even DO here. It seemed like a gated off tourist trap (again!) so we wanted to explore. We left the walls of the Costa Maya cruise port and saw Senor Frogs in the distance. I've been to Senor Frogs twice before (in the Bahamas) and while it is a total tourist trap, they give you free shots. And more free shots. And more free shots. I had to go to the restroom so we stopped in for a beer. That beer became another beer and another. Soon the shots were flowing and I was playing drinking games.

We must have stayed at Senor Frogs for hours. We were having so much with the randoms and the staff. They were SO cool and I told them how this was the best Senor Frogs ever (at least, that I know of). After massive amounts of alcohol, a 2nd place victory in a balloon blowing and beer chugging competition, the staff gave everyone birthday candles. We sang Bohemain Rhapsody and then they blew air out of a scuba tank everywhere. It was the coolest thing I have ever witnessed while drunk.

We finally pulled ourselves away from the bar and returned to the Costa Maya port area. They had a swim up bar and we got comfortable with some 40s of Sol.

We took a nap and I had chicken for dinner before, again, passing out by 10 p.m. Seeing a trend here?

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