Curator’s statement
Beauty and culture captivated my husband and I from the moment our sandals hit the family-friendly port. As we admired the duty-free shops, beautiful free saltwater pools, and upscale authentic Mexican cuisine, we were surrounded by extremely happy, friendly locals dancing and interacting in exquisite Mexican garb. We realized every minute of our 6-hour stay would be spent enjoying the offerings of the cruise port. We enjoyed everything from being in an interactive bird encounter where we hand-fed some of the most beautiful birds we've ever seen, to enjoying a fish pedicure for the first time, to watching the dolphins, all for less than $75 for us both.
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Where to stay in Costa Maya
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Things to do in Costa Maya
Beauty comes in all colors
Interactive bird experience
Walk through the many enclosures featuring some of the most beautiful birds in the world.
Saltwater fish pedicure
Sit and enjoy the tickling, tingling feeling as the tiny fish nibble at your toes, leaving you feeling both refreshed and excited to have tried something different.
Authentic Mexican cuisine
Enjoy the flavors of true handmade Mexican food made with fresh, locally grown vegetables and a taste that lets you know it was made with love.
Saltwater pools
Enjoy the refreshing, cool sensation from one of three different saltwater, family-friendly pools surrounded by the ocean breeze, with a variety of poolside bars and restaurants.
Local culture
Interact with locals dressed in their most beautiful Mexican fashions, and learn about their heritage through conversation, dance, and laughter.
Duty-free shopping
Whether it's medicine, jewelry, apparel, or alcohol, you can find it here.
Places to eat & drink in Costa Maya
Paradise
Yaya Beach: Gorgeous and upbeat beachfront gem; the best guacamole hands down! The beachside resort has a wide variety of Mexican cuisine and drinks served by some of the friendliest staff by far.
The Krazy Lobster: A hidden gem that serves the freshest seafood and amazing cocktails with pristine views of the ocean.
La Monina: Happy hour until 5 p.m. with 2-for-1 beers, energetic staff, and an epic beach view.
The Corner Bar: Serving some of the best wings I've ever tasted! Great place to meet locals and experience the extremely laidback atmosphere.
Coconuts: Just a bit further down the island, this oceanfront gem serves some of the very best ceviche on the island. No reservations are accepted, and you can leave the card on the ship as they only accept cash.
Need to know
Whether staying in the cruise port or venturing down the island, Costa Maya is a place full of beauty, culture, entertainment, and some of the best, most authentic cuisine you will find anywhere.
Travel Advisor
Bridget Willis
Bridget Willis
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Mexico page.