Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico Port Reviews

We would recommend Costa Maya, Mexico as a resting day and relaxing shopping day for gifts and souvenirs since there were a lot of smaller shops at this port. One thing we notice was that if you speak Spanish well enough to hold a conversation when shopping around then the vendors tend to not both you too much and let you look around at what they have to sell. Plus, it helps in haggling when buy some gifts and souvenirs. After shopping, we decided to have lunch at Cantina Latina which was a good choice since they had a live DJ and we were able to see one of the shows being performed around the port. The food at Cantina Latina was good. After lunch, we went back aboard ship to our cabin to relax and unwind for the rest of the day while most of the guests were still at port. Tip: There are a lot of excursions to do away from the port.

Allure of the Seas - Puerto Costa Maya. This was a fun stop. The last time we came to Puerto Costa Maya we booked an excursion to the Mayan Ruins of Chocchoben (about and hour ride from the ship). This time we opted to hang out at the port and the little shopping “village” there in the port. I found some nice hand made pottery and bought t-shirts for the gang back home. We had a light snack and drink at the one of the restaurants by the pool. Enjoyed the view of the pool and the ocean. With gifts bought and drinks drunk we headed back to the ship. I decided to walk the entire length of the pier while the rest of the party waited to take the tram to the ship. It was a gorgeous day with a nice sea breeze, plus I wanted to get my steps (averaging 8000+!) Hit my favorite place for a light late lunch - Park Cafe in Central Park. Up until today, this was the best kept secret for lunch on the ship, but lots of people were there but was still able to get a table and enjoy my salad. Tip: Don’t pay for the cupcakes at the Cups and Scoops, they are the same cupcakes you can get at the non-specialty eateries. The Park Cafe and the Windjammer have cupcakes (they may not be the same flavor but still made in the same kitchen... just sayin’). The rest of the day was wandering the ship, napping (it is my vacation don’t judge HAHA), and hanging out at the Solarium Bar while we left port. As the bar emptied out we made our way to get changed for the last Formal Night and hit the dining room for dinner. Once seated we ordered out sodas (must get the most out of the drink package!) and dinner. I had the prime rib. It was surprisingly good, I was fretting it was going to be that prime rib they server a bowling tournament banquets, but no it was good. The best part was the Baked Alaska, I hadn’t had that since I cruised in the 90’s where the cruise dining room staff made a huge production bring out the large Bake Alaskas with sparklers. Now a days, it’s understated goodness. After dinner we opted out of doing the Blue Planet and hit the casino instead. I did well this time so glad I went! I ended the night at Sorrento’s with a slice of pepperoni pizza. The seas were a bit choppy but you really couldn’t feel it. Too me it was a nice slight rocking motion and made for a very restful night. Only one day left and it’s at sea... *sigh*

we went to a private (family friendly) beach about 10 minutes away from the port called tropicánte it was great. they had great service and food. they also have 1 hour massages for $20

This port was amazing. No need for an excursion here. They have a huge gorgeous pool open to everyone right there when you get off the ship. They have a beach, swimming with dolphins and tequila tasting available right there. This port seemed new, it was aesthetically pleasing and clean.

We enjoyed the Hugh pool and great music that was free right in the middle after you get off the ship. No excursions needed when you can have a good time for free. Drink prices were reasonable

Visited: May 20, 2018

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DO A LOCAL EXCURSION!!!! We rented a golf cart from a local company NOT cruise line or in port. Was $60 for 4 ppl... Gave us access to THREE BEACHES had a BLAST!!! went off roading got all muddy came back a mess n LOVED IT!!! The company is family owned, the dad drives around making sure everyone is safe n satisfied. Was worth EVERY PENNY!!! BEST PORT OF THE 3!!!! I promise you WONT regret it, leave the port as soon as u get out theyre just on the right hand side!!

Everyone please note that at the port there is sooooo much to do...it’s gorgeous...swimming area...shops...swim with dolphins....bars..food...beach chairs...trolly to downtown for 4$...taxi back for 4$...if we had known there is NO need to book excursion. Fun port for sure!!!!

Visited: Feb 23, 2019

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This is an extremely poor area. However, the people are humble and kind. We enjoyed a private beach where we ordered food and drinks. We rented a golf cart and toured on our own here as well. We had a great time.

Visited: Jul 29, 2018

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We were a group of 7 ranging from 74 to 16 yrs. We didn't do an excursion but took a minivan taxi to Mahahual Beach that cost us $12 for the group of us each way. The beach and the water are beautiful. Had lunch at one of the restaurants that has tables and umbrellas set up on the sand. Very relaxing. The port where the ship docks has a large area of shopping and restaurants too. Very nice port.

Did the Chacchoben extreme tour with Native Choice tours and really enjoyed it. Our guides were Eddar and Angelique and our driver was Pedro. Very well done professional tour, highly informative with friendly people. Pedro had a pack strapped to his chest that seemingly had an endless supply of cold bottled water! The 7 colors lagoon was also beautiful, and very relaxing. The Mayan ruins were amazing to see, and overall I would recommend these guys with complete confidence!