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Planning a short trip to Costa Maya? You’re in for a relaxing treat!
This small port town on the Yucatán Peninsula may be compact, but it’s packed with experiences, from exploring ancient Mayan ruins to snorkeling vibrant coral reefs and discovering the crystal-blue waters of Bacalar Lagoon. With so many options, it can be tricky to know where to start, but that’s where we can help!
Whether you’re visiting for a day on a cruise stop or staying overnight, this itinerary covers the best things to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of your time. Ready to plan your perfect one or two day getaway in Costa Maya? Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Costa Maya was this Chacchoben Ruins tour! This half-day tour makes it easy to see ancient Mayan ruins while learning from an expert guide, and makes the most of your time on the Yucatan!
Itinerary Overview
Costa Maya sits on the southern end of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, further south than Cancun. It’s primarily a cruise port, but if you have a full day or two to spend here, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do and some amazing day trips nearby.
Getting around is simple—taxis are the easiest way to travel, and most attractions are just a short ride away. You can also book organized tours through Viator or other third-party companies, which are often much cheaper than cruise excursions and make it easy to explore more of this beautiful region. With just a little planning, you can experience both the rich culture and laid-back charm that make Costa Maya so special.
Here’s a quick overview of how to spend one or two unforgettable days in Costa Maya:
Day 1: Explore the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins in the morning, then relax on Mahahual Beach and enjoy lunch at The Krazy Lobster. Spend the afternoon snorkeling with sea turtles, and finish the day with dinner and ocean views at Malecon21.
Day 2: Take a scenic day trip to the breathtaking Bacalar Lagoon to swim in its famous blue waters and cenotes. Back in Mahahual, unwind on the beach before enjoying dinner at Restaurante 40 Cañones and live music along the Malecon.
Day 1
Morning – Visit Chacchoben Ruins
Kick off your time in Costa Maya with this Chacchoben Mayan Ruins tour, a perfect mix of history and relaxation. This small-group excursion is especially popular with cruise passengers who want to see the best of the region in just one day.
You’ll meet your guide a short walk from the cruise port before setting off in a comfortable, air-conditioned van stocked with cold water and soft drinks. While the exact start time varies depending on your ship’s arrival, you can expect to leave around 8 or 9 am.
The scenic drive to Chacchoben takes less than an hour, and once you arrive, you’ll step back in time as you wander through ancient temples surrounded by lush jungle. It’s peaceful and uncrowded—a refreshing contrast to busier sites like Tulum—and your guide will bring the Mayan history to life with fascinating stories.
After exploring, you’ll stop at Mahahual Beach to enjoy a well-earned break. Sip a cold drink or try a shot at a local beach club, then relax on the white sand or cool off in the clear turquoise water. The whole thing lasts about 4.5 hours, so you’ll return by around 12:30–1:30 pm, just in time for lunch.
This tour is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience Costa Maya in a single day. With everything planned for you and over 1,200 rave reviews to back it up, it’s no wonder it’s a top pick!
Book this highly rated tour here and pay nothing until just before you go!
Lunch – The Krazy Lobster
After your morning exploring the Chacchoben ruins and relaxing at Mahahual Beach, take a 5-minute taxi ride to The Krazy Lobster for lunch, one of the most popular seafood spots in Costa Maya. Set right on the beach, this lively open-air restaurant is the perfect place to kick back with your feet in the sand and a cold drink in hand. The atmosphere is fun and casual, with friendly service and ocean views that make you want to stay all afternoon.
The menu is packed with fresh local seafood like buttery grilled lobster, shrimp tacos, ceviche, and whole red snapper cooked to perfection. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, so come hungry! You can dine right on the sand under a shady palapa while listening to the waves crash nearby.
Afternoon – Snorkel with sea turtles
After lunch, spend your afternoon exploring Costa Maya’s vibrant underwater world on this snorkeling tour of Mahahual’s reef lagoon—an unforgettable way to experience the area’s natural beauty up close. This small-group cruise is perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike, with calm, shallow waters that make swimming effortless and relaxing.
You’ll meet your guide right behind the Mahahual Beach area, just a short stroll from where you had lunch, before heading out by boat to the nearby reef. The 3:30 pm option is ideal, as it fits perfectly with your afternoon plans and returns around 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the water without feeling rushed. The visibility here is fantastic, so you can easily spot colorful coral formations and schools of tropical fish gliding beneath you.
You’ll visit two beautiful snorkeling sites. The first features sandy areas and seagrass where sea turtles often appear, and the second is closer to the reef crest and bursting with marine life and vibrant coral. It’s peaceful, stunning, and surprisingly easy, thanks to the calm lagoon conditions.
After about an hour in the water, you’ll return to shore and enjoy fresh pineapple on the beach—the perfect sweet finish to an incredible afternoon on the Caribbean coast. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or have done it dozens of times, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories of Costa Maya’s crystal-clear waters!
Book this snorkeling tour stress-free with FREE cancellation!
Dinner – Malecon21
After your snorkeling adventure, head back to your hotel to freshen up, then make your way to one of the most upscale spots in Costa Maya, Malecon21. Located right on the beach, this beach-club-meets-restaurant combines a relaxed, elegant vibe with stunning ocean views, making it the perfect place to unwind after a full day of exploring.
The menu features modern Mexican-Caribbean dishes made with fresh, local ingredients—think grilled seafood, flavorful ceviche, and creative drinks crafted with tropical fruits. Whether you grab a table on the open-air terrace or dine right on the sand, the ambiance here feels effortlessly refined yet welcoming. Since Malecon21 is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, it’s a good idea to call ahead for reservations, especially if you’re visiting during cruise season.
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 2
Morning – Explore the blue Bacalar Lagoon and cenotes
If you’ve got a second day in Costa Maya—lucky you! This gives you the chance to experience one of the Yucatán’s most breathtaking natural wonders: Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” This 5.5-hour cruise to the Bacalar Lagoon is an absolute must for anyone wanting to see more of the region beyond the cruise port.
You’ll meet your guide near the Costa Maya Cruise Port, about a 7-minute walk from the terminal. Start times vary—tours can leave as early as 8 am, Monday through Saturday, or 6 am on Wednesdays. However, plan for an 8 am departure, with the exact time confirmed after booking. This way, you’ll return by around 2 pm, leaving your afternoon free to unwind.
The drive to Bacalar takes you through lush countryside, but nothing compares to that first glimpse of the lagoon’s shimmering blue tones. You’ll visit several cenotes, including Cenote Esmeralda and Black Cenote, and even see ancient stromatolites at Cenote Cocalitos, living fossils that date back billions of years!
Another highlight is the Pirate Channel, where you’ll float through the shallow waters and learn about the real pirates who once used this hidden route to smuggle goods. Lunch is included, and you’ll finish the day relaxing at Cocalitos Beach Club, where you can enjoy a delicious meal, sip a cool drink, or simply float in the lagoon’s turquoise shallows.
This tour is the perfect way to round out your 2-day adventure, and clearly, we aren’t the only ones who think so. Check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why travelers rank this among the best tours in Costa Maya!
Grab your spot on this tour in advance before it sells out!
Afternoon – Hang out on Mahahual Beach
After returning from your Bacalar Lagoon adventure, spend a laid-back afternoon soaking up the sun at Mahahual Beach, the heart of Costa Maya’s coastline. This is the most central and lively stretch of beach, with a scenic boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and beach clubs—all just steps from the water.
You can easily rent lounge chairs, umbrellas, or hammocks for around $5 to $10 USD, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the relaxed Caribbean vibe. Whether you want to sip on a cold drink, take a dip in the clear shallows, or simply watch the boats drift by, this is the ideal way to slow down after a morning of exploring.
When you’re ready to stretch your legs, wander along the Malecon (boardwalk) to browse local shops and stalls selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and colorful souvenirs. It’s one of the best places in Costa Maya to find something unique to take home. Stick around until the late afternoon if you can – the golden light on the water here makes for an especially beautiful end to your two-day adventure in paradise.
Dinner – Restaurante 40 Cañones
Wrap up your second day in Costa Maya with dinner at Restaurante 40 Cañones, one of Mahahual’s best beachfront dining spots. The atmosphere here is effortlessly relaxed, with tables set right along the sand and the sound of gentle waves in the background. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a slow, scenic meal after a day of exploring and sunbathing.
The menu features a mix of Mexican and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, from grilled seafood and fresh pasta to perfectly cooked steaks and vibrant salads. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a tropical drink and watch the last bit of daylight fade over the Caribbean.
With friendly service and an unbeatable view, this is the kind of place where dinner easily turns into a long, easygoing evening. Since it’s one of the more popular restaurants in Mahahual, it’s a good idea to call ahead for reservations, especially during cruise days or weekends.
Evening – Enjoy live music
As night falls, Mahahual takes on a mellow charm. Many beachfront restaurants and bars, including 40 Cañones and others along the boardwalk, feature live music in the evenings, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxed night by the sea. Take a slow stroll along the Malecon, stop wherever the rhythm draws you in, and enjoy a drink under the warm coastal breeze.
Costa Maya isn’t known for a wild nightlife scene, but that’s part of its appeal. Whether you settle into a beach bar with a mojito or wander the shoreline beneath the stars, it’s the perfect low-key ending to your two-day adventure in paradise.
Where to Stay in Costa Maya
If you’re wondering where to stay in Costa Maya, Mahahual is the perfect choice. This small beach town is close to the cruise port and full of charm, with oceanfront hotels, beach clubs, and restaurants all within walking distance. Whether you’re after a luxury resort, a mid-range boutique stay, or a budget-friendly hotel, you’ll find plenty of great options right on the sand. Just be sure to book early—hotels in Mahahual tend to fill up quickly, especially during cruise season.
Luxury – $$$
Aqua Star Hotel & Apartments is the perfect beachfront luxury stay in Mahahual. This stylish hotel offers spacious suites and apartments, many with ocean views and private balconies. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, sip drinks at the bar, or enjoy fresh seafood at the on-site restaurant. With a prime location right on the beach, you’re steps away from crystal-clear waters and only a 5-minute drive to the Costa Maya cruise port!
Prices average around $200 USD per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
A charming mid-range stay, 40 Cañones sits right on Mahahual Beach in the heart of town. This boutique-style hotel features bright, comfortable rooms and suites, some with balconies overlooking the Caribbean. Guests can unwind on the private beach, sip drinks at the bar, or enjoy fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes at the on-site restaurant while listening to the waves.
Standard rooms typically range from $80 to $200 USD per night, depending on the season and room type. See available room options and reserve your stay at 40 Cañones Hotel on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Oneiro Suites with Sea View is a great budget-friendly stay just steps from Mahahual Beach. This modern hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with private balconies, sea views, and all the essentials, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with streaming services. Guests can relax at the year-round outdoor pool, enjoy drinks at the bar, or dine on Mexican and international dishes at the on-site restaurant.
With its convenient beachfront location and welcoming vibe, it’s perfect for couples or families looking for value and comfort. Starting around $60–$150 USD per night, you can reserve your room here on Booking.com.
For even more great options, check out all the hotels listed for Costa Maya here!
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
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We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
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Thanks for reading!
Whether you’re in Costa Maya for a one-day stop on a cruise or have an extra day to spare, you can still experience some incredible sights! From ancient temples to stunning blue lagoons and the charming boardwalk of Mahahual, we had so much fun exploring Costa Maya. This itinerary makes it easy to get around and maximize your time, which is perfect for a quick trip!
Need help planning the rest of your trip? See all of our Mexico blogs here, or our Caribbean blogs if that’s where your travels take you! As long-time travelers, we have put together itineraries, where to stay guides, and lists of top things to do to help fellow adventurers. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!
Where to Stay in Bacalar, Mexico: 3 Best Areas & Hotels