Located about 100 miles south of Playa del Carmen along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, this cruise port at Costa Maya was built by developers for the express purpose of drawing cruise lines to its location. This cruise port highlights the ancient and colonial heritage of the Mexican Caribbean, but with today’s modern conveniences.
Built in 2001, the port was virtually destroyed in 2007 when Hurricane Dean swept through the area. It was restored, damaged again in 2012 and has since been beautifully rebuilt.
Costa Maya cruise port and the surrounding area is a relaxing stop with beautiful white-sand beaches on the Mahaual Peninsula. Because of the proximity to the Mesoamerican Reef System, there is good diving and snorkeling here. The reef system is the second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
Built to resemble a small-town Mexican village, Costa Maya comprises three grand pavilions, both artisan and luxury shopping areas, beach, saltwater pools and restaurants and bars.
The same developers who created Costa Maya also redeveloped Mahahaul (also known as Majahual). This was a one-time fishing village of about 200 people. The stone embankment along the waterfront runs in front of a row of seaside hotels, restaurants and dive shops.
This development has been restricted to low-rise buildings and has also attracted a sizable Italian community. It is because of this influence from the Italian community that Mahahaul is sometimes compared to Tulum, a sleepy fishing town that has become a popular vacation destination.
The same developers who created Costa Maya also redeveloped Mahahaul (also known as Majahual). This was a one-time fishing village of about 200 people. The stone embankment along the waterfront runs in front of a row of seaside hotels, restaurants and dive shops.
This development has been restricted to low-rise buildings and has also attracted a sizable Italian community. It is because of this influence from the Italian community that Mahahaul is sometimes compared to Tulum, a sleepy fishing town that has become a popular vacation destination.
Check out these excursions in Costa Maya.
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Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go: The port complex was badly damaged by Hurricane Dean (2007) and has been rebuilt better than before. The pool area and beach at the pier are excellent if you'd rather not venture out. Chacchoben ruins are about 55 miles inland (about 1 hour each way) — arrange transport through the pier tour desk or a reputable operator.
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Hot Tip
Walk the 1.5 miles north from the cruise terminal to the village of Mahahual — the malecón there has authentic seafood restaurants, local cerveza, and a completely different vibe from the port complex. It's a pleasant 20-minute walk along the coast.Costa Maya, Mexico – Quick Facts
CurrencyThe Mexican peso is the currency used, however there are some vendors that will accept U.S. currency. There is an ATM in the cruise port area, but you should have cash before this stop. Few vendors take credit cards.
LanguageSpanish is the official language, but areas that cater to tourists will have English speaking employees.
WiFi & PhoneThe area’s beach clubs usually have free Wi-Fi.
Where You DockCosta Maya Cruise Port, Mahahual, Quintana Roo, Mexico
