🇲🇽 Costa Maya, Mexico — Cruise Port Guide
A purpose-built cruise village on Mexico's remote Caribbean coast, gateway to jungle-clad Maya ruins and the laid-back fishing town of Mahahual.
Updated September 2026
Quick facts
Getting ashore
When to visit Costa Maya
Best December-April for dry, sunny mid-80s°F weather; the Yucatan's hurricane season runs June-November with the highest risk in September-October.
Getting back to the ship on time
Popular independent excursions to the Chacchoben Mayan ruins run 1.5-2 hours round trip from the pier, so build in a large time buffer since the ship will not hold the dock for latecomers who booked outside the cruise line.
All-aboard is ship's time — check it in the daily programme, and set your watch to it.
Things to do in Costa Maya
Chacchoben ruins tour
Explore jungle-shrouded Maya temples, the region's most visited ruins.
Mahahual beach day
Relax at laid-back beach clubs along the Malecón boardwalk.
Reef snorkeling
Snorkel the Mesoamerican Reef just offshore from Mahahual.
Kohunlich ruins
See the famous Temple of the Masks deep in the jungle.
Port village pool & bars
Swim, shop and sip margaritas in the cruise plaza.
Bacalar lagoon trip
Visit the stunning seven-color freshwater lagoon inland.
What to eat
- Cochinita pibil
- Tikin xic
- Ceviche
- Tacos al pastor
- Aguachile
Weather by month
Best time to visit: Dec–Apr (dry season)
| Month | High | Low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 82° | 69° | 3" |
| Feb | 83° | 69° | 1.8" |
| Mar | 85° | 71° | 1.4" |
| Apr | 87° | 73° | 1.7" |
| May | 88° | 75° | 4" |
| Jun | 89° | 76° | 6.8" |
| Jul | 90° | 76° | 4.3" |
| Aug | 90° | 76° | 4.8" |
| Sep | 89° | 75° | 8.5" |
| Oct | 87° | 74° | 8" |
| Nov | 84° | 72° | 4.2" |
| Dec | 82° | 70° | 3.2" |
Local phrases
A little history
Chacchoben and Kohunlich were thriving Maya cities more than a thousand years ago.
Greet vendors politely; friendly bargaining at craft stalls is expected.
Tipping 10–15% in restaurants; small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.
The port is remote and jungly with few ATMs, so carry pesos.