Cruise ports vary, some are in an industrial area and others are destinations of their own. Well, the port at Costa Maya is a destination all its own. You need not book an excursion, you can just walk off the ship and enjoy a day of shopping, eating, swimming with the dolphins and so much more.
When you walk off the ship you enter into the port of Costa Maya. It is filled with so much. If you book a destination through the ship, you will easily be able to find your meeting place. You will also have the opportunity to take your picture with locals dressed up in native dress.
After walking through a duty-free store, you enter the heart of the port of Costa Maya. There are numerous shops, places to eat, get coffee, cigars, a drink and so much more. There are even animal encounters that you can book within the port. There is a dolphin encounter that allows you to swim with the dolphins. There is also a place where you can get a massage while looking out over the dolphin sanctuary. There is also a small flamingo viewing area. They are absolutely beautiful creatures.
After you are done exploring the area, you can enjoy a relaxing day by the pool in the port area. You have to be drinking and eating at the bar attached to the area – but it is a great way to get off the ship and enjoy the sun and scenery. 
There is even a swim up bar that you can enjoy – so make sure to bring or wear your swimsuit when you disembark in Costa Maya. (There is a place where you can change close to the dolphin encounter).
Other things that we saw at the port of Costa Maya, a cigar shop, pharmacy, live demonstrations of Mayan traditions, multiple photo opportunities and a place to get your fish foot pedicure. It really is one of the most beautiful and activity filled cruise ports I have ever encountered. And I have been on a lot of cruises.
Also, I would highly recommend knowing if you have any friends on other cruise ships when you are traveling in the Caribbean. You just never know when you might be at the same port at the same time. I was really sad that I didn’t realize that I had multiple friends on a sister ship when we were in Costa Maya – we could have hung out in the port together. I will post another time about the excursion we did instead (that I don’t recommend).
If you would like to know more about cruises that go to Costa Maya, schedule a time with me to chat about it. You can use the calendly link on the home page to find a time that meets your needs.
Danielle