The Best Travel Guide to Costa Maya (UPDATED 2025) | ArrivalGuides.com

All Travel Guides

Mexico

Costa Maya

Provided by: Don Mammoser/shutterstock

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

North America Mexico Costa Maya

Overview

Costa Maya The guide was updated: 2025-01-06

Costa Maya is a rising star of the Yucatán peninsula that offers a quiet alternative to its 'big brothers' such as Chetumal or the Riviera Maya. However, despite its young age as a tourist resort, it boasts an abundance of historical and natural landmarks, and has a genuinely impressive beach bar scene, which makes it a worthy rival.

Facts

Population:	Mahahual: 2,636 inhabitants (2024)
Currency:	The main currency is the Mexican peso (MXN), but the US Dollar is accepted everywhere.
Hotels:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	National Emergency Service: 911 (police, ambulance, firefighters)
Newspapers:	Riviera Maya News (English): www.riviera-maya-news.com
Website:	www.costamaya.com
Opening hours:	Shops and supermarkets are usually open every day from around 8am until late in the evening.
Tourist information:	Terminal Marítima Costa Maya Avenida Del Puerto, Mahahual, Q.R. info@costamaya.com +52 998 894 8597

Read more

Section in Costa Maya

Costa Maya is an up and coming tourist region that has something to offer to all age groups. Lesser-known Maya ruins such as Chacchoben and Kohunlich are sure to amaze with their amazing history and architecture, as well as natural wonders like Banco Chinchorro. If some quiet time by the beach is what you are after, the Malecón, 'boardwalk,' in Mahahual will likely cater to all your needs.

Maya Ruins of Chacchoben

Maya Ruins of Chacchoben

A favorite daytrip destination from Costa Maya, the Chacchoben Maya ruins are located nearby a city of the same name, only 50 minutes away from the cruise port. This fascinating landmark is estimated to have been inhabited since as early as 1000 BC, and after a fairly late discovery in the 1940s, it still contains several unexcavated areas. Visitors can pick from a range of tour operators to be guided through the site, and as a bonus can admire the remarkable flora of what is called the 'Region of the Lakes.'

Costa Maya Cruise Port

Costa Maya Cruise Port

The cruise center is a sight in itself that allows you to experience many aspects of Mexican culture, even if you don’t have time to visit any other locations. Aside from restaurants, shops and bars with traditional Mexican fare and products, there is also a saltwater swimming pool, Maya spa, aviary park, tequila museum, and much more. It is also possible to book excursions to iconic places such as Chacchoben and Bacalar.

Malecón

Malecón

A simple yet effective way to see the best of Mahahual is to take a stroll along this 1.2-mile long boardwalk. Connecting a multitude of restaurants, beach clubs, hotels, vendors and the town’s picturesque lighthouse in the north, El Malecón is no less than Mahahual’s main artery.

Banco Chinchorro

Banco Chinchorro

Not only does Costa Maya have excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling, it also boasts a true rarity: Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve is a coral reef located around 18 miles off the coast of Mahahual. As part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest coral reef system in the world, it is home to a diverse array of marine life as well as dozens of sunken ships, some of which date back to the 16th century. You can find a multitude of dive centers along Mahahual's boardwalk, Malecón.

Dolphin Discovery

Dolphin Discovery

A popular choice for kids and grown-ups alike, Dolphin Discovery offers a range of programs for up-close encounters with marine animals. Dolphin activities are made unforgettable with belly rides, handshakes and hugs. You can also swim with, and learn about, manatees and sea lions.

Kohunlich

Kohunlich

Under the shelter of lush rainforest, the archeological site of Kohunlich is an outstanding example of Maya architecture. Palaces, citadels, temples, such as the top attraction Temple of the Masks, and other elaborate structures are scattered over an area of more than 20 acres, with most landmarks dating back to as early as 250 to 600 AD. Chetumal is a common starting point to visit Kohunlich, but tours are available at the Costa Maya Cruise Port as well. If you are in the area, don't miss out on the opportunity to visit Dzibanche, another outstanding Maya landmark around 20 miles away from Kohunlich.

Xcalak National Reef Park

Xcalak National Reef Park

Located 15 miles south of Mahahual, Xcalak is a secluded stretch of Costa Maya with stunning marine life in the Xcalak National Reef Park. It extends over 25 miles as part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Activities are plentiful and include fly fishing, scuba diving, Standup paddleboarding, kayaking and more. Without the hustle of nearby popular resorts, this is also a perfect place for peaceful strolls or romantic sunsets on the beach.

Lake Bacalar

Lake Bacalar

With a length of 30 miles, Lake Bacalar, also known as 'Laguna Bacalar,' is the largest lake of the Yucatán peninsula. Also called 'The Lake of Seven Colors', it is a spectacular landmark for its clear azure water, fed by groundwater emerging from 'cenotes,' or natural sinkholes. The landmark is within a 60-mile distance from Mahahual. There are restaurants near the shore, and sports activities such as kayaking and windsurfing are available, too.

Maya — Lost Mayan Kingdom

Maya — Lost Mayan Kingdom

Maya Theme Park offers a thrilling experience with its extreme water slides and fun-filled ziplines. Inside, you'll find food and drink establishments to keep you refreshed throughout the day. While the entrance fee might seem high, the park's low visitor traffic compensates for it. The park accepts credit cards, Google Pay, and similar options for services like renting lockers to store your belongings.

Load more