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One of the standout features is the Temple of the Large Masks, which showcases intricately carved stone masks that depict Mayan deities. A hidden gem, the Chacchoben Ruins provide a less crowded alternative to the popular Chichen Itza. This ancient site showcases the impressive architectural achievements of the Mayan people, with towering pyramids, intricately carved walls, and majestic staircases. With its idyllic location and amenities, Yaya Beach is the perfect spot to escape the crowds and create lasting memories during your visit to Costa Maya.
Do cruise ships dock, or is Costa Maya a tender port?
You will enjoy strolling along the promenade (Malecon), browsing the colorful shops, and soaking in the village’s laid-back atmosphere. You can then stop off in one of the many beach bars to enjoy Mexican street food and authentic cocktails. All the rides are based around the Great Pyramid, which looks like an ancient Mayan Temple. The water park is located a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. However, you can usually order transportation with your cruise line or get a taxi from outside the terminal. Hayhu Beach is a high-end beach club offering a tranquil oasis away from the hundreds of cruise tourists at the port.
Where is Costa Maya, Mexico?

Pizza PapiThere is no shortage of beachfront restaurants serving cold beer and seafood. Believe it or not, Mahahual has a highly rated pizza spot — Pizza Papi. If you don’t want pizza, there are other Italian favorites as well.
Sightseeing and cultural excursions
Many cruise passengers decide to hang out around the free saltwater swimming pool in the centre of the Costa Maya cruise port, followed by a bit of souvenir shopping. Parallel to the Ocean and bordering the sand, there is a main pedestrian 'road' - the Malecón Mahahual. El Malecon in Mahahual is the vibrant downtown area of Mahahual beach, bustling with beachgoers daily and lively with nightlife as the sun sets. Most cruisers opt for the quick shuttle from the terminal, spending their entire day soaking up the scene.
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Tourist info and language
Within the same archeological zone, in the heart of the jungle, you can also visit Kinichná ruins located approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) from Dzibanche. The complex is dominated by a huge two-level pyramid that you can climb and admire the spectacular views of the lush rainforest and surrounding pyramids. There are usually no crowds as the place is off the beaten track. There’s no doubt that Chichen Itza takes the prize as the biggest and most popular Mayan ruins in the area, but it can also be crowded and it’s a long way from Mahahual.

The rental place equipped us with a map and suggested routes specifically good for golf carts, even highlighting spots where parking was free. In no time, we were haggling like pros, securing a five-hour rental for a steal. As with any destination, it’s best to remain aware of your surroundings and take precautions if you plan to explore the area at night. The main highlights of Calakmul include its grand pyramids, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and give visitors a sense of the city’s former prominence.
Hit the Spa for Mayan Healing Rituals
However, if you have something you really want to do in Costa Maya, I’d recommend booking it in advance. These tours can book up, especially if there are multiple large cruise ships in port. Several different cruise lines do visit the Costa Maya cruise terminal. The pristine beaches south of the port are natural top attractions for cruise passengers wondering what to do in Costa Maya.
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At Yaya Beach, you can relax and soak up the sun on their comfortable lounge chairs, with umbrellas to provide shade. As you bask in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, you can enjoy refreshing drinks from their beach bars. You can sip on your favorite cocktails with unlimited boozeand cool down with ice-cold beverages. You can also ride a taxi in Costa Maya, which should cost an average of $2-$3 per person. You can find taxis at the far end of the port since they aren’t allowed inside it. After that, soak in a therapeutic bath before going to the Temazcal, where you sweat away all the toxins and impurities from your body.
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The most convenient Mayan excursion is about 50 minutes away at Chacchoben. The site is only partly restored, but cruise lines are promoting it more for excursion trips. Mahahual is about two miles from the cruise port, while Xcalak is about 36 miles or 92 kilometers south of the port.
Be sure to follow your ship’s instructions for what to bring (and not to bring) off the ship. Typically, you’ll need your ship key card and a photo ID, as well as your wallet with cash/credit cards, and towels from your ship. Like other international ports, you won’t be able to bring any fresh produce with you. Ships dock on a medium-size cruise purposely built port with T-shaped piers and quays for up to four cruise ships to moor. Whatever you decide to do, all cruise travelers will have to pass by the terminal building unless you stay onboard. If you want to get out in the water but don’t want to snorkel or scuba dive, you can always take a glass-bottom boat tour.
Guided tours are available to provide historical insights and explanations about the significance of these archaeological wonders. Immerse yourself in the mysteries of the Mayan civilization as you walk in the footsteps of an ancient civilization at Costa Maya’s Mayan ruins. The options for beach clubs and swimming spots in Costa Maya are endless. Costa Maya has it all if you’re looking to relax on white sand beaches, take a dip in crystal-clear waters, or enjoy a swim-up bar. So grab your beach chair, wear your swimsuit, and prepare for a day of fun and relaxation in paradise.
This is where you normally meet for shore excursions, and where you can book last-minute excursions if you wish. Aviarius is one of the most unique things to do in Costa Maya. Within the port area that you visit as you exit the pier, there is Aviarius — an encounter with tropical birds that traverses the port. You’ll walk on suspended bridges from station to station above the port, with chances to get up close and personal with all sorts of tropical birds, including flamingos and macaws. It’s also a great way to get amazing views of the cruise ships in port.
Be sure to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, towels, and anything else you’ll need for the day. You’ll need to make sure you make it to your ship before all-aboard time. It’s also important that you know the cancellation and refund policy, in case your ship can’t stop at the port or if the itinerary changes at the last minute. When you book a ship excursion, it will be refunded in those circumstances but that may not always be the case if you book for something on your own.
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