Costa Maya is a purpose-built cruise terminal at Mahahual, a small beach village on the far southern coast of Quintana Roo. It is quieter than Cozumel or Cancun, and the choice of day is simple: stay on the coast for beaches and snorkelling, or spend most of the call on the road to Mayan ruins and Bacalar lagoon. This guide covers how the port works, how to plan the return to the ship, and the excursions that fit a typical 8 to 9 hour stop. If you are comparing ports, see our Cozumel cruise port guide.
How the Port and Mahahual Work
The cruise terminal sits on the coast just outside Mahahual village. The village itself is a few minutes away by taxi, and a seafront boardwalk (the malecon) runs along the beach with restaurants and beach clubs. Mahahual is fairly remote, with one main road in and out, so anything inland means a long transfer. The official Mexican Caribbean tourism site has an overview of the beaches and the nearby reef. Taxi fares in Mahahual are set by zone: agree the price before you get in, and expect to pay in US dollars or pesos.
Time Back On Board
Ships normally set all-aboard about 30 minutes before sailing and do not wait for independent travellers. Our rule of thumb:
- Be back at the terminal 60 to 90 minutes before all-aboard.
- Inland tours should state a return time at least 90 minutes before all-aboard.
- Ship-booked excursions are covered by the ship, independent ones are not.
- Allow extra time on days when several ships depart together and the road and taxi queue are busy.
Excursions That Fit a Costa Maya Port Day
Most of these can be found through Costa Maya and Mahahual tours on GetYourGuide, where you can filter for half-day options. Prices are approximate and “as of 2026”.
1. Chacchoben Mayan ruins. The classic inland trip, about an hour from the port, with temple platforms set in forest. Typical tours run 4 to 5 hours. Check site rules with Mexico’s INAH. Chacchoben tours.
2. Bacalar lagoon and Chacchoben combination. A 7 to 8 hour day that pairs the ruins with a swim and boat ride on the lagoon of seven colours. It is the most ambitious option, so book only with a stated return buffer. Our Bacalar guide shows what the lagoon is like if you stay longer.
3. Reef snorkelling off Mahahual. The barrier reef runs close to shore, with half-day boat trips for beginners. A relaxed choice that keeps you near the pier. Snorkel tours.
4. Beach club day. Day passes with sunbeds, food and drinks along the malecon are the easiest way to spend a port day. Prices vary widely, so compare before you buy.
5. Banco Chinchorro boat trip. One of the largest coral atolls in the Caribbean lies offshore. It is more of a dive and snorkel trip than a standard shore excursion, so confirm timing with the operator. Reef and atoll trips.
6. Kayak or paddleboard along the coast. Calm shallow water and mangrove edges, good for families who want an active morning. Water activity tours.
7. Mahahual and Xcalak coast drive. The fishing village of Xcalak is about 60 km south and has some of the least-developed coastline in the Mexican Caribbean. A private driver is the usual way to do it, and it uses most of the day.
Planning Tips
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a water shoe for rocky entries.
- Carry small US dollars or pesos for taxis and tips.
- Stay on the beach side if your call is short. Inland trips need an 8 hour call.
- Staying longer in the region? See our Bacalar day trips guide and best tours in Bacalar.